Guilt vs. Shame

While it may seem that these words are synonyms, there is a difference between guilt and shame.  A very important difference, actually.  I just made myself some wild mountain blueberry coffee, so join me for a minute, hopefully with your favorite beverage, and a warm...

Anger and Healthy Boundaries

Have you felt strongly about something when you’re really irritated, but then forget about that same thing like it was no big deal? Or have a bad thing happen that put you in a rage but then thought, “Never mind, I don’t want to deal with that again!...

The Valley Of The Shadow

Folks come to my office asking for counsel on all kinds of things.  Anger issues, help with communication, depression, anxiety, marital problems, trauma or addiction recovery…the list goes on and on.  When it really comes down to it though, everyone who sits on...

Constructive Criticism

Is there such a thing as constructive criticism?  I was listening to a training by John and Julie Gottman, a couple of the most well-respected couples therapists and researchers, the other day, and they suggest that there really is no such thing.  It is common for...