by Essential Touchstones | Nov 16, 2023 | therapy, trauma
In a world that often compartmentalizes health into physical, mental, and spiritual categories, Cynthia A. Newland’s holistic approach to wellness is a breath of fresh air. At Killebrew Psychological Services, we are thrilled to feature Cynthia and her wellness consults that embody the unity of body, soul, and spirit.
Cynthia A. Newland: A Maestro of Movement and Healing
With an illustrious MFA in Dance from Arizona State University and a BFA from George Mason University, Cynthia has spent nearly three decades inspiring individuals through the art of movement. Her expertise is not just in dance but in fostering well-being through creative expression.
The Art of Inclusive Dance
Cynthia’s commitment to inclusive dance has seen her choreograph for both abled and disabled individuals, promoting a message of unity and capability. Her work transcends barriers, embodying the idea that dance—and wellness—is for everyone.
Wellness Consults: A Unique Blend of Art and Healing
Cynthia’s consults are not your typical health sessions. They are an amalgamation of her vast experience in the performing arts and her passion for nurturing holistic health. “Nourishing the Body, Soul, and Spirit” isn’t just a tagline; it’s a philosophy that she brings to life through her consults.
What to Expect in a Wellness Consult with Cynthia:
– Personalized Movement Regimens: Tailored to your physical capabilities, these regimens are designed to enhance mobility, strength, and well-being.
– Creative Expression: Cynthia encourages the use of artistic outlets as a means of emotional and spiritual expression.
– Holistic Health Strategies: Drawing from her diverse background, she offers strategies that enrich one’s lifestyle, considering nutritional, mental, and spiritual dimensions.
– A Supportive and Inclusive Environment: Her sessions are safe spaces where all individuals, regardless of ability, can explore and grow.
Join Cynthia’s Wellness Revolution
If you’re looking to enrich your life with a regimen that respects and unites all aspects of your being, Cynthia’s wellness consults are the answer. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or new to the concept of movement therapy, you’ll find value in her unique approach to health and well-being.
by Essential Touchstones | Nov 13, 2023 | spotlight, therapy, trauma
In the realm of mental health, the unique challenges that men face often go unspoken. At Essential Touchstones and Killebrew Psychological Services (KPS), we recognize the importance of creating a safe space for men to explore and address their concerns. This is where Jon Huff’s vital role comes into focus. A dedicated clinical therapist with a passion for men’s issues, Jon leads a men’s group that provides support and guidance through the complexities of modern masculinity.
Jon Huff: A Guiding Force for Men’s Mental Health
Jon Huff’s extensive experience as a clinical therapist has honed his expertise in addressing men’s mental health. With a deep understanding of the societal pressures and emotional challenges that men often encounter, Jon brings a nuanced and empathetic approach to his therapy sessions.
Understanding Men’s Issues
Men’s issues can encompass a range of topics, including but not limited to:
- Emotional expression and communication
- Relationships and intimacy
- Work-life balance and stress
- Fatherhood and family dynamics
- Substance abuse and recovery
- Mental health stigma and help-seeking behaviors
Jon Huff’s approach is grounded in the belief that understanding and validating these experiences are the first steps towards healing and growth.
The Men’s Group at Essential Touchstones
The men’s group led by Jon Huff is more than a support group—it’s a community. Here, men are encouraged to speak openly, share their experiences, and support one another in their mental health journeys. The group focuses on:
- Developing emotional intelligence and communication skills
- Navigating personal and professional relationships
- Building resilience and coping strategies
- Addressing addictive behaviors and finding pathways to recovery
Through group discussions, therapy sessions, and peer support, participants gain insights and tools that foster personal development and well-being.
Jon Huff’s Impact
The men who have participated in Jon Huff’s group often speak of the transformative impact it has had on their lives. By addressing men’s issues head-on and in a supportive environment, Jon helps dismantle the barriers to men’s mental health.
Joining the Men’s Group
If you or a man in your life is seeking a deeper understanding of personal challenges, or if you’re looking for camaraderie in facing life’s hurdles, Jon Huff’s men’s group might be the perfect fit. It’s a place to find strength in vulnerability and to learn that taking care of one’s mental health is a true sign of courage.
by Essential Touchstones | Oct 23, 2023 | massage, services, therapy, trauma
In the world of massage therapy, every now and then, someone emerges who doesn’t just possess the technical skills but carries a certain magic in their hands. Brenda Hayes is that rare gem. At Essential Touchstones, we proudly introduce Brenda Hayes as our resident massage therapist, who is renowned for her anointed hands and exceptional skill set, particularly in medical massage and trauma-informed therapy.
Brenda’s Unique Touch
It’s not just about the science for Brenda; it’s about the connection. Her understanding of the human anatomy goes beyond the muscles and sinews; she taps into the energy, the emotions, and the very essence that makes us human. This depth of understanding and intuition can be traced back to her special training.
Medical Massage: This isn’t your typical spa massage. Medical massage is targeted, specific, and purpose-driven. It aims to resolve conditions that have been diagnosed by a doctor, and Brenda has undergone rigorous training to ensure she provides relief to her clients suffering from a myriad of medical conditions. Whether it’s chronic pain, post-surgical stiffness, or any other ailment, Brenda’s medical massage techniques promise not only relief but also a path to better overall health.
Trauma-Informed Therapy: Trauma can reside deep within our muscles and tissues, manifesting as chronic tension, pain, and even emotional disturbances. Brenda’s approach to trauma-informed therapy ensures a safe, respectful, and understanding environment where clients can begin to heal both physically and emotionally. Her therapy is a holistic approach that recognizes the intricate connection between body, mind, and spirit.
Why Choose Brenda Hayes at Essential Touchstones?
With a plethora of choices available, what makes Brenda stand out? It’s her commitment, passion, and belief in the transformative power of touch. Every client is unique, and so is every session with Brenda. She doesn’t believe in one-size-fits-all; her therapies are tailored to your specific needs, ensuring you walk out feeling revitalized and rebalanced.
If you’re searching for more than just a massage—if you’re looking for a holistic experience that addresses both body and soul—then Brenda Hayes at Essential Touchstones awaits.
Discover the magic of her hands. Book your session today.
Essential Touchstones is dedicated to promoting the best in therapeutic services. Our aim is to connect you with professionals who don’t just do their job but excel in their craft. Brenda Hayes exemplifies this spirit. Join us in experiencing the difference.
by Essential Touchstones | Sep 30, 2023 | services, trauma
Mental health is a spectrum, and one of the more complex and misunderstood disorders that fall on this spectrum is Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). BPD affects the way a person feels about themselves, how they relate to others, and how they behave. Given its complexity, we at Essential Touchstones believe it’s vital to shed light on BPD and dispel some common misconceptions.
What is BPD?
BPD is a mental health disorder characterized by:
- Intense episodes of anger, depression, and anxiety that may last only a few hours to days.
- Unstable relationships.
- Distorted self-image.
- Chronic feelings of emptiness.
- Impulsive behavior.
It’s essential to note that BPD is not a mere character flaw or a sign of weakness. It’s a legitimate medical condition rooted in brain functions and is often a result of trauma, genetics, or environmental factors.
Dispelling BPD Myths
Myth: People with BPD are manipulative.
Fact: BPD behaviors, like emotional outbursts or self-harming, are often a way of dealing with intense emotional pain, not manipulation tactics.
Myth: BPD can’t be treated.
Fact: While BPD is a long-term condition, many people experience relief from symptoms by participating in comprehensive therapy, like Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Myth: BPD is a rare disorder.
Fact: BPD affects nearly 1.6% of the U.S. population at some point in their lives, making it more common than many realize.
Your Mental Health Journey with Essential Touchstones
Whether you’re exploring trauma therapy or seeking to understand conditions like BPD, Essential Touchstones is here for you. Our holistic and evidence-based approach ensures that you or your loved ones receive the utmost care tailored to individual needs. Remember, seeking help is a testament to strength, not a sign of weakness. Embark on your mental health journey with us.
Healing Through IOP Trauma Therapy for Adults
Trauma can manifest in many forms, be it physical, emotional, or psychological. Its echoes can linger for years, if not decades, manifesting as vivid memories, triggering sensations, and overwhelming emotions. At Essential Touchstones, we understand the depth and intricacy of trauma. Our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for adults is specifically designed to offer comprehensive trauma therapy, helping individuals navigate, understand, and ultimately heal from their traumatic experiences.
Our IOP trauma therapy goes beyond traditional therapy sessions. With intensive therapy sessions multiple times a week, it offers adults the ability to immerse themselves in the healing process, delve into their trauma narratives, and gain tools and strategies to cope, heal, and reclaim their lives.
by Dr. Alyssa Killebrew | Mar 16, 2023 | trauma
Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are very common across all cultures. The higher the number of ACEs, the more likely it is that a person will develop a mental health diagnosis and/or a physical health consequence (e.g., cardiovascular disease).
What are ACEs?
- Did you feel that you didn’t have enough to eat, had to wear dirty clothes, or had no one to protect or take care of you?
- Did you lose a parent through divorce, abandonment, death, or other reason?
- Did you live with anyone who was depressed, mentally ill, or attempted suicide?
- Did you live with anyone who had a problem with drinking or using drugs, including prescription drugs?
- Did you live with anyone who had a problem with drinking or using drugs, including prescription drugs?
- Did your parents or adults in your home ever hit, punch, beat, or threaten to harm each other? Did you live with anyone who went to jail or prison?
- Did a parent or adult in your home ever swear at you, insult you, or put you down?
- Did a parent or adult in your home ever hit, beat, kick, or physically hurt you in any way?
- Did you feel that no one in your family loved you or thought you were special?
- Did you experience unwanted sexual contact (such as fondling or oral/anal/vaginal intercourse/penetration)?
The good news is that having a champion in your corner to help mitigate the effects can reduce the likelihood of negative effects of ACEs. Additionally, trauma is treatable no matter what age you are.
by Dr. Alyssa Killebrew | Mar 16, 2023 | trauma
Relationships are what make the world go round. When healthy, they can support you as you become the person you were meant to be.
However, if relationships are unhealthy and ineffective, they can have the opposite effect by making life feel heavy and hopeless.
On a basic level, any relationship that makes you feel worse, rather than better, can become toxic over time. These are some subtle signs of a toxic relationship:
- You are not your best self around the person. For example, they bring out the worst side of you, or they seem to draw out a mean streak you don’t normally have.
- You feel like you have to walk on eggshells around this person to keep from becoming a target of their venom.
- You feel a toll on your self-esteem over time.
- You feel unsupported, demeaned, misunderstood, or attacked.
- You feel depressed, angry, or tired after speaking or being with the other person.
- You spend a lot of time and emotional strength trying to cheer them up.
- You are always to blame. They turn things around by making everything your fault.
- You give more than you’re getting, which makes you feel devalued and depleted.
- You feel consistently disrespected or that your needs aren’t being met.
- You bring out the worst in each other. For example, your competitive friend brings out a spite-based competitive streak that is not enjoyable for you.
If you find that you are answering yes to one or more of these. Please seek support.
If you or a loved one are a victim of domestic violence, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.
Gaslighting
Gaslighting is a new pop psychology term that essentially is an insidious form of emotional abuse that causes immense damage to clients’ psychological and physical health. Victims of gaslighting report feeling that they are unable to disclose the abuse. Frequently, some are even unaware that it is occurring because they are discredited by the perpetrator as “crazy” leading the victim to feel unsure of their own reality. It can lead to chronic low self-esteem, parental alienation, self-blame, rumination about the relationship, increase in anxious attachment, feelings of disconnection from family and friends, and issues for the children who witness this behavior in the home.
A few warning signs of gaslighting in a perpetrator: intermittent positive reinforcement, slow spiral into instability, compulsive lying, as well as a “Jekyll and Hyde” personality. Perpetrators often demand loyalty but rarely give it in return. They may also have chronic patterns of infidelity, yet may seem charismatic. Our team at Essential Touchstones believes in whole family healing through learning attachments styles, teaching detachment, learning healthy boundaries, and reversing unhealthy relationship patterns. Please call us for more information.
