You Don’t Have to Earn Rest: Self-Care, Burnout & Boundaries for High-Achieving Women 🎙️

Dr. Lauren Chase joins Natasha Montgomery to discuss self-care without guilt, burnout warning signs, healthy boundaries, and rest for high-achieving women.

You Don’t Have to Earn Rest: Self-Care, Burnout & Boundaries for High-Achieving Women 🎙️

By M.B.S. Whole Health | August 18, 2026 | Comments 0 Comment

You Don’t Have to Earn Rest

Let’s be honest: many of us treat self-care like a prize waiting at the end of an impossible to-do list.

Once the work is finished, the children are settled, everyone else is okay, the messages are answered, and every box is checked—then we might give ourselves permission to rest.

But the work is never completely finished. There is always another email, another responsibility, another goal, or another person who needs something from us. If we keep waiting until everything is done, taking care of ourselves may never make it onto the agenda.

In this episode of the This Therapist Has Problems Podcast, I sat down with Dr. Lauren Chase, founder of Climbing Hills Counseling, to talk about self-care, burnout, boundaries, anxiety, and the pressure high-achieving women often carry.

Our conversation offered an important reminder: you do not have to earn rest.

Self-Care Is Responsiveness to Yourself

Self-care is often packaged as massages, vacations, bubble baths, and expensive treats. Those things can absolutely be enjoyable, but they are not the whole picture.

As Dr. Chase explained, self-care is an intentional focus on what you need in the present moment—and then responding to that need.

Sometimes it is taking a walk while listening to an audiobook. Sometimes it is sitting quietly in your car for ten minutes. It may be watching a show simply because you enjoy it, setting a limit on your workday, or deciding that you are unavailable at a time that does not work for you.

The question is not, What should self-care look like? The better question is, What would actually replenish me right now?

That answer will not be the same for everyone, and it may not be the same for you every day.

Start by Asking Where You Feel Joy

One of my favorite questions from this conversation was simple:

Where do you feel the happiest and most fulfilled?

Many people struggle to answer it. We are so accustomed to moving from one obligation to the next that we may lose touch with what brings us peace, pleasure, or joy outside of productivity.

Self-awareness comes before intentional self-care. We have to slow down long enough to notice what we are feeling, what is draining us, and what helps us feel like ourselves again.

You do not need a long list. Begin with one honest answer.

What Did You Learn About Rest Growing Up?

Our beliefs about self-care do not develop in isolation. Many of us grew up watching adults work constantly, push through exhaustion, or treat rest as something that had to be earned.

Maybe no one around you modeled boundaries. Maybe caring for the family always came before caring for the individual. Maybe you learned that being responsible meant never needing a break.

Those lessons can follow us into adulthood without our realizing it.

Dr. Chase encourages people to look at their family-of-origin messages around rest and ask whether those patterns are still serving them. We can honor our families and cultures while also choosing a healthier relationship with our own needs.

Sometimes you are the person who gets to create a new blueprint.

Self-Care Is Not Selfish

Guilt is one of the biggest barriers to self-care, especially for mothers, caregivers, helpers, and people from cultures that place a strong value on collective responsibility.

Taking a short break can feel like stepping away from the people you are supposed to care for. But staying until you are overstimulated, resentful, or completely depleted does not help you show up as your healthiest self.

You are allowed to pause before frustration turns into yelling, shutting down, or responding in a way you later regret.

And when you do have a human moment, repair is still possible. As Dr. Chase shared from her work with parents, it is not only about what was said; what happens after matters too.

We are not perfect. We are human. Taking care of ourselves and practicing repair are both part of showing the people around us what emotional health can look like.

Boundaries Are a Form of Self-Care

Sometimes self-care looks less like adding something pleasant and more like removing something unsustainable.

It may sound like:

“I am not available at that time.”
“I cannot take that on right now.”
“I do not work weekends.”
“I need a few minutes before we continue this conversation.”
“No.”

For business owners, clinicians, caregivers, and high achievers, there will always be more that could be done. The challenge is accepting that doing more is not always the same as doing what matters.

A boundary protects your time, energy, relationships, and capacity to keep doing meaningful work without losing yourself in it.

You Are More Than the Hats You Wear

Dr. Chase spoke honestly about having to ask herself who Lauren was outside of being a counselor and counselor educator. After years of school and professional achievement, hobbies and identity outside of work had been pushed to the side.

That part of the conversation hit home for me. I have also had to tell myself to put down the educational books and choose something just because it is fun. Not everything has to teach us something, grow a business, improve a skill, or move us toward the next goal.

You are allowed to enjoy something without turning it into another form of productivity.

Your life is not only what you produce. 🌿

Recognizing Burnout Before Your Body Forces You to Stop

Dr. Chase described burnout as emotional, physical, and mental depletion—the feeling that your cup is empty and you have nothing more to give.

Burnout may look like:

No longer enjoying things that once brought you joy
Dreading responsibilities you previously managed
Feeling stuck, depleted, or emotionally empty
Moving constantly without feeling as though you are getting anywhere
Believing you are failing in every area of your life
Feeling unable to step off the “hamster wheel,” even when you are exhausted

One truth we returned to in this conversation was this: your body will stop you if you do not.

The goal is not to wait until you completely crash. It is to learn your warning signs and respond earlier—with rest, boundaries, support, or a meaningful change in how you are carrying your responsibilities.

One Small Step Still Counts

Self-care does not have to begin with a complete lifestyle overhaul. It can begin with one small action that makes caring for yourself easier.

Put your walking shoes by the door. Schedule the recurring appointment. Protect a small break in your calendar. Choose a stopping time for work. Listen to something that has nothing to do with your profession. Ask someone for help.

Small steps become habits, and habits help make care more sustainable.

If you are unsure where to begin, ask yourself:

What is draining me most right now?
What brings me even a small amount of peace or joy?
What boundary would give me more room to breathe?
What is one realistic step I can take this week?

You do not need to prove that you are exhausted enough. You do not have to finish everything first. You are already worthy of care.

Watch the Full Episode

Watch on YouTube:https://youtu.be/BXppEdY7qpo

Connect With Dr. Lauren Chase

Dr. Lauren Chase is the founder of Climbing Hills Counseling, where she supports high-achieving women navigating anxiety, burnout, perfectionism, and boundary fatigue.

Website: https://www.climbinghillscounseling.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/climbinghillscounseling/
Email: lauren@climbinghillscounseling.com

Climbing Hills Counseling provides virtual therapy for women in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Vermont, and Idaho.

Resources & Support

Self-Care Assessment: https://socialwork.buffalo.edu/content/dam/socialwork/home/self-care-kit/self-care-assessment.pdf
Self-Care Starter Kit: https://socialwork.buffalo.edu/resources/self-care-starter-kit.html
M.B.S. Whole Health Counseling & Coaching Services: https://mbswholehealth.com/

If you recognize persistent exhaustion, loss of interest, anxiety, low mood, or difficulty functioning, consider reaching out to a licensed mental health professional or medical provider for individualized support.

Disclaimer: This article and podcast episode are for educational and informational purposes only. They are not substitutes for therapy, diagnosis, medical advice, or individualized mental health care. Reading, watching, or listening does not create a therapist-client relationship. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988 in the United States. If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Who Helps the Helpers? Mental Health, Motherhood & Purpose After Pain 🎙️

By M.B.S. Whole Health | August 4, 2026 | Comments 0 Comment

When the encourager needs encouragement too

For my very first guest on This Therapist Has Problems Podcast, I sat down with TarNeisha A. Mukoko for a conversation that felt like the perfect way to begin bringing other voices into this space.

TarNeisha is the Founder and CEO of Life With TarNeisha, LLC. She is a life and mental health coach, full-spectrum doula, minister, educator, speaker, community leader, and mother. She is also someone who understands what it means to keep showing up for other people while navigating her own very human experiences.

We talked about divorce, career transitions, motherhood, faith, her bipolar depression diagnosis, and the fear that needing help might cause people to question her ability to help them.

That fear is real for many people in helping roles. We are expected to know what to do, remain emotionally available, and somehow keep every part of our own lives together. But credentials do not remove our humanity. A calling does not make us immune to pain. Being the strong person does not mean we never need somewhere safe to fall apart.

As TarNeisha said during our conversation, “The encourager needs to be encouraged too.”

Who takes care of the strong one? 🤎

Some people become the person everyone calls.

You are the listener. The problem-solver. The one who remembers what everyone needs. The one who encourages, organizes, prays, checks in, and finds a way to keep things moving.

People may see your strength without recognizing what it costs you to maintain it.

TarNeisha described the weight of thinking for her home, her business, her son, the people she serves, and herself. At one point, she said she sometimes gets tired of having to think for herself because she is already carrying so many other responsibilities.

That is a feeling many women, mothers, caregivers, therapists, coaches, ministers, and community leaders understand. You can love what you do and still feel tired. You can be passionate about serving others and still need someone to ask, “What do you need?”

Those two truths can exist at the same time.

A diagnosis does not erase your calling 🧠

TarNeisha spoke openly about being diagnosed with bipolar depression and beginning medication and psychiatric care. She also shared the internal battle that followed.

Would people think she was incapable? Would they question whether she could still support others? Would the diagnosis become a stain that overshadowed her experience, training, faith, and purpose?

This is one of the reasons mental health stigma can be so damaging. A diagnosis may help explain what someone has been experiencing and guide them toward appropriate support. It does not erase their wisdom, gifts, professional abilities, or humanity.

People in helping professions are not required to be untouched by life before they can help someone else.

As I shared during our conversation, life be lifing over here too. I am a licensed therapist, but I still experience pain, disappointment, grief, stress, and seasons when I need support. Being trained to help people navigate difficult experiences does not mean I will never have difficult experiences of my own.

Sometimes our lived experiences allow us to sit with people differently. They can deepen our compassion and remind us that healing is not a straight line or a performance.

Faith and professional mental health care can coexist 🙏🏾

Faith was woven throughout our conversation because it is central to how TarNeisha understands her life and purpose. She spoke about prayer, obedience, spiritual guidance, and trusting God through seasons she did not fully understand.

She also spoke clearly about taking medication, seeing a therapist, working with a psychiatrist, and leaning on trusted people for support.

That matters.

In many faith communities, people still feel pressure to choose between prayer and professional mental health care. But receiving treatment does not mean someone lacks faith. Therapy, psychiatric care, medication, community, and spiritual support can each play a role in a person’s wellness.

Seeking help is not a rejection of faith. For many people, it is one of the ways they begin caring for the life they believe they were given.

Purpose after pain does not mean pretending the pain was good 🌱

TarNeisha did not begin her career expecting to become a life and mental health coach or a doula. She spent years working in education and once believed becoming a principal would be her next step.

Then life shifted.

Divorce, single motherhood, mental health challenges, and changing priorities caused her to reconsider what she wanted and what she could realistically carry during that season. She pursued life-coach certification, built Life With TarNeisha, later became a mental health coach, and accepted a scholarship opportunity to train as a full-spectrum doula.

Her journey is a reminder that purpose does not always arrive in a straight line. Sometimes it grows through a pivot. Sometimes it begins with an opportunity you do not completely understand. Sometimes it requires saying yes before you can see the full picture.

Purpose after pain does not require us to call every painful experience good. It means we are allowed to decide that pain will not have the final word. We can allow what we have lived through to deepen our understanding, redirect our choices, and help us create something meaningful.

Maternal mental health means caring for the mother too 💛

One of the most important parts of our conversation focused on TarNeisha’s work as a doula and the need to support the person who gave birth, not only the baby.

After a baby arrives, attention quickly shifts toward feeding schedules, sleep, diapers, appointments, and whether the baby is doing well. Meanwhile, the mother may be recovering physically, experiencing major emotional and hormonal changes, functioning with very little sleep, and trying to adjust to an entirely different life.

Who is checking on her?

Who is asking how she feels instead of only asking about the baby?

Who is making sure she can rest, eat, shower, attend appointments, and say honestly when she is not okay?

TarNeisha explained that doula support can look different for every family. It may include emotional support, helping someone identify what they need, watching the baby while a mother sleeps, picking up groceries, preparing food, or connecting the family with additional resources.

This kind of practical care matters because mental health does not exist separately from the rest of life.

Some emotional changes can occur during pregnancy and after birth. However, symptoms that persist, intensify, disrupt daily functioning, or create concerns about safety deserve professional assessment and support. They should not be dismissed as someone being dramatic or as “just hormones.”

Fathers and partners need support too 👥

TarNeisha also reminded us that fathers and partners can struggle during the postpartum period.

They may be supporting a recovering mother, caring for a newborn, managing other children, handling household responsibilities, worrying about finances, and trying to understand how to help while adjusting to parenthood themselves.

Who is checking on them?

Supporting maternal mental health does not mean ignoring everyone else in the family. It means recognizing that the well-being of parents, babies, and families is connected. Fathers and partners deserve accurate information, emotional support, and room to acknowledge when they are overwhelmed too.

Change requires support and personal ownership ✨

One of TarNeisha’s guiding statements is, “In order for your circumstances to change, you must first change.”

That does not mean blaming ourselves for everything that has happened to us. Trauma is real. Loss is real. Inequity is real. Other people’s choices can cause real harm.

Personal ownership means recognizing what is within our control now.

We may not be responsible for the wound, but we can decide what support we need to begin healing it. We can examine our patterns, challenge the stories we have accepted about ourselves, set boundaries, seek treatment, change our environment, and make different choices moving forward.

Support and accountability are not opposites. Often, the right support helps us take responsibility without turning that responsibility into shame.

A reminder for the helpers who are tired 🤎

If you are the person everyone depends on, I hope this conversation reminds you of a few things:

You are allowed to need support.

You are allowed to take medication when it is part of your treatment plan.

You are allowed to have a therapist, psychiatrist, mentor, spiritual leader, support group, or trusted community.

You are allowed to rest before you completely burn out.

You are allowed to be skilled, called, knowledgeable, and still human.

Needing help does not disqualify you from helping others. It may be the very thing that allows you to continue doing the work without losing yourself in it.

The encourager needs encouragement too.

Watch the full episode 🎧

In this episode of This Therapist Has Problems Podcast, TarNeisha and I talk more about mental health stigma, motherhood, faith, career transitions, doula support, and finding purpose after pain.

Thank you for stepping into my office and making room for honest conversations about mental health and being human.

Watch the full episode on YouTube: Who Helps the Helpers? Mental Health, Motherhood & Purpose After Pain

Connect with TarNeisha

Website: Life With TarNeisha
Instagram: @lifewithtarneisha
Facebook: Life With TarNeisha
LinkedIn: TarNeisha A. Mukoko

Resources and support 🤍

If this episode brings something up for you, please know that you do not have to work through it alone. Use the resource that feels most appropriate for what you need right now.

Information about bipolar disorder:
The National Institute of Mental Health provides educational information about bipolar disorder, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. A qualified mental health professional can provide an individualized evaluation and treatment recommendations.

Maternal mental health support:
The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline offers free, confidential support 24 hours a day for pregnant people, new parents, and their families. Call or text 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262).

Perinatal and postpartum resources:
Postpartum Support International provides information, support, and connections to local resources. Call 1-800-944-4773, press 1 for Spanish or 2 for English, or text HELP to 800-944-4773 in English. The PSI HelpLine is not an emergency or crisis line.

Support for fathers and partners:
Postpartum Support International also provides information and support resources for dads.

Black maternal mental health support:
The Shades of Blue Project offers culturally responsive maternal mental health advocacy, community resources, and support groups for women of color before, during, and after childbirth.

Therapy and coaching through M.B.S Whole Health:
To learn more about available mental health and coaching services, contact M.B.S Whole Health.

Immediate emotional crisis support:
If you are experiencing emotional distress, thoughts of suicide, or feel unsafe, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

You deserve care, support, and a space where you do not have to be the strong one every moment of every day.

Disclaimer

This blog and podcast episode are intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is not a substitute for professional mental health care, therapy, diagnosis, treatment, or medical advice and does not establish a therapeutic relationship. The experiences discussed are personal and may not reflect every person’s experience with bipolar disorder, pregnancy, postpartum mental health, or treatment. Please contact a qualified mental health or medical professional for personalized support. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Dusting Off the Microphone: What the Silence Held 🎙️

By M.B.S. Whole Health | July 17, 2026 | Comments 0 Comment

The Truth About Silent Grief After Pregnancy Loss

It has been forever since I posted an episode of This Therapist Has Problems Podcast.

For months, I thought about how I would come back. Do I just press record and move forward like nothing happened? Do I jump into the next topic? Do I avoid the personal update and keep it professional?

But if you have been here before, you already know this podcast was not created for surface-level conversations. This space was created for honesty, transparency, and real conversations about the things we often carry in silence. 🤍

So as I launch Season 2, I am dusting off the microphone and sharing what the silence held.

The vulnerability hangover is real 🫣

I will be honest. This episode felt vulnerable in a way I did not fully expect.

There is a difference between sharing from a healed place and sharing while still feeling the tenderness of what happened. I had to sit with whether I was ready to say certain things out loud. I had to ask myself if sharing this story was necessary, helpful, or simply too much.

What I came back to is this: some stories are hard to tell because they are connected to the parts of us that are still healing.

And sometimes, even when it feels scary, telling the truth gives somebody else permission to stop carrying their pain alone.

What happened behind the silence 🌿

In this episode, I share a personal life update about an unexpected pregnancy after having my tubes tied, the concern for a possible ectopic pregnancy, repeated blood work, physical pain, fear, and ultimately the emotional weight of miscarriage.

This was not something I planned for. It was not something I expected. And it was not something I knew how to quickly process.

There was a lot happening at once. Medically, I was being told that the loss may have been the best-case scenario because of the risk connected to a possible ectopic pregnancy. Emotionally, there was nothing about it that felt simple, easy, or like good news.

That is the part I wanted to give language to.

Sometimes grief is complicated. Sometimes grief shows up even when the situation was not something you asked for, planned for, or thought you wanted. Sometimes your mind understands one thing while your heart, body, and spirit are trying to catch up.

Grief does not always come with condolences 🕊️

One of the thoughts that stayed with me is that sometimes grief does not come with condolences.

Not because people do not care, but because they may not know what to say. They may not understand why something hurts as deeply as it does. They may be focused on the medical outcome, the practical details, or the fact that things could have been worse.

But grief does not need permission to be real.

You do not have to justify why something hurt you. You do not have to prove your loss was big enough. You do not have to explain why you are grieving something that was unexpected.

If it mattered to you, it matters. 🤍

Why this conversation matters right now ✨

This episode is also being released during National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month and in recognition of Black Maternal Mental Health Week, observed July 19 through July 25.

That timing matters.

So many Black women and women of color are carrying reproductive grief, pregnancy loss, medical trauma, fear, confusion, and silent pain while still being expected to function, work, care for others, and keep going.

We are often praised for being strong, but strength does not mean we are not hurting.

Strength does not mean we do not need support.

Strength does not mean we should have to process grief in silence.

This conversation is not just about my story. It is also about creating space for the stories that often go untold.

Listening to your body matters 💛

One of the biggest reminders from this experience was the importance of listening to my body.

I knew something was off before I had answers. I could feel that something was not right. And because I listened, I was able to get medical attention before things became more dangerous.

I want to be clear that this episode is not medical advice. But it is a reminder to pay attention to your body, ask questions, advocate for yourself, and keep pushing when something does not feel right.

Your body matters.

Your concerns matter.

Your questions matter.

Healing does not mean pretending it did not happen 🌱

Healing did not mean I stopped feeling anything. Healing did not mean I was suddenly okay. Healing did not mean I could check grief off a list and move on.

Healing looked like resting when I wanted to keep pushing.

It looked like crying when I needed to cry.

It looked like allowing myself to be human, even as a therapist.

It looked like giving myself permission to not have all the answers.

And slowly, the grief did not feel the same way it felt in the beginning. It was still real, but it was not as heavy every single day.

That is what healing can do. It may not erase what happened, but it can teach you how to carry it with more gentleness.

A reminder for anyone holding silent pain 🤎

If you have been carrying something quietly, I hope this episode reminds you that you are not alone.

Your story matters.

Your body matters.

Your grief deserves space.

Even if it happened years ago.

Even if other people did not understand.

Even if you minimized it because you thought you had to be strong.

Even if you never gave yourself permission to call it grief.

It is not too late to acknowledge what happened, honor what you lost, and make room for your own healing.

Watch the full episode 🎧

Season 2 of This Therapist Has Problems Podcast begins with honesty, vulnerability, and a reminder that therapists are human too.

Thank you for stepping back into my office.

Watch the full episode on YouTube: Dusting Off the Microphone: What the Silence Held

Resources and support 🤍

If this episode brings something up for you, please know that you do not have to process it alone. Whether your experience is recent or something you have carried quietly for years, support is available.

Pregnancy loss and grief support:
Share Pregnancy & Infant Loss Support offers support for those impacted by pregnancy loss, stillbirth, or infant loss, including help finding support by state.

Miscarriage, loss, and grief education:
March of Dimes has resources for miscarriage, pregnancy loss, grief, and finding comfort after loss.

Maternal mental health support:
The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline provides free, confidential, 24/7 support for pregnant and postpartum individuals and their families. Call or text 1-833-TLC-MAMA.

Perinatal mental health and support groups:
Postpartum Support International offers a HelpLine, online support groups, and resources for pregnancy, postpartum, pregnancy loss, and pregnancy after loss.

Black maternal mental health support:
The Shades of Blue Project focuses on maternal mental health support for women of color and minority communities, including Black Maternal Mental Health awareness and resources.

Black maternal health advocacy and education:
Black Mamas Matter Alliance centers Black mamas and birthing people through advocacy, research, education, and Black maternal health resources.

Immediate emotional crisis support:
If you are in emotional distress, experiencing thoughts of suicide, or feel unsafe, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Please use the resources that feel most supportive for where you are right now. You deserve care, support, and space to heal.

Disclaimer

This blog and podcast episode are intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content provided is not a substitute for professional mental health care, therapy, or medical advice and does not establish a therapeutic relationship. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Please reach out to a licensed mental health or medical professional in your area for personalized support and guidance.

Has Your Coping Tool Become an Addiction?

By M.B.S. Whole Health | August 13, 2025 | Comments 0 Comment

Coping Skills vs Addiction & High-Functioning Addiction Signs

We all have that go-to at the end of a stressful day, maybe it’s a glass of wine 🍷, a quick shopping scroll 🛍, comfort food 🍰, or endless phone time 📱. At first, it feels harmless. But sometimes, that “little treat” can quietly grow into something much bigger, and harder to control.

In this post, we’ll explore the fine line between a healthy coping habit and a dependency, plus how to recognize the signs before your stress reliever starts running the show.

From Habit to Addiction: Understanding Coping Skills vs Addiction

Habit: Something you do regularly, often without thinking.
Compulsion: You feel anxious or unsettled if you don’t do it.
Addiction: You keep doing it despite negative consequences to your health, relationships, or finances, and you feel powerless to stop.

It’s not just substances like alcohol or drugs that can become addictive. Shopping, food, vaping, social media, and even work can take on that same addictive role if they become your only way to cope.

The High-Functioning Addiction Trap

Addiction doesn’t always look like chaos. High-functioning addiction can hide behind a polished exterior, a clean home, a thriving career, a perfect social media feed, while the person struggles privately. This makes it easy to dismiss or ignore the warning signs because “everything looks fine.”

Therapist Tip of the Week 🧠

If your favorite stress reliever feels impossible to skip for even a week, it may be time to reassess its role in your life.

Action Step ✅

Pick one day this week to skip your usual coping habit and replace it with a healthy alternative, a walk outside, journaling, connecting with a friend. Notice how you feel before, during, and after. Awareness is the first step toward change.

Why Awareness Matters in Breaking Unhealthy Coping Patterns

Addiction thrives in silence. The goal isn’t to label yourself or quit cold turkey today. It’s about self-reflection, asking honest questions and noticing patterns before they take over. Healing is possible, and you deserve to live a life where your happiness isn’t dependent on something outside of you.

Listen to the Full Conversation

I dive deeper into this topic, share my own vulnerable story, and walk you through practical steps for self-assessment in the latest episode of This Therapist Has Problems Podcast.

🎧 Watch on YouTube

Resources & Support

📍 Texas Residents – Work with Me:
🌐 https://mbswholehealth.com/contact/

📚 Addiction & Mental Health Support:

SAMHSA Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) – Link
NAMI: www.nami.org
Shatterproof: www.shatterproof.org

Disclaimer:
This blog is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content provided is not a substitute for professional mental health care or therapy and does not establish a therapeutic relationship. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Survival Mode: The Hidden Face of Anxiety

By M.B.S. Whole Health | July 9, 2025 | Comments 0 Comment

When’s the last time you felt at ease? Not distracted, not exhausted, not over-committed, but truly present and peaceful.

If you’re always on edge, running through mental checklists, replaying conversations, or bracing for the next thing to go wrong, you may be living in survival mode. And anxiety could be the silent driver.

Here’s the thing: anxiety doesn’t always look like panic attacks or full-blown breakdowns. Sometimes, it hides in high achievement. In overthinking. In constantly being “on.” And while anxiety is a normal human emotion that helps keep us safe, chronic anxiety can leave us emotionally depleted, physically tense, and mentally scattered.

Let’s break it down.

Anxiety Isn’t Always Loud, But It’s Always There

Many of my clients don’t realize they’re struggling with anxiety until we slow things down. Why? Because we often normalize our symptoms. We tell ourselves “I’m just busy” or “That’s just my personality.” But when stress becomes your baseline and rest feels foreign, you may be operating in survival mode without even knowing it.

Common signs of high-functioning or chronic anxiety include:

Overthinking and catastrophizing
Trouble sleeping or staying asleep
Feeling tense in your shoulders, neck, or jaw
Saying yes when you want to say no
Struggling to sit still or relax
Always planning, preparing, or fixing in your mind
Feeling guilty when you’re not being “productive”

Does any of this sound familiar? You’re not alone. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, about 2 in 10 U.S. adults will experience an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives. Anxiety is common, but that doesn’t mean it should go unaddressed.

Stress vs. Anxiety: What’s the Difference?

Stress is often tied to a specific situation. It’s temporary. Once the event passes, your nervous system can return to a baseline.

Anxiety, on the other hand, is like an alarm that won’t shut off. You’re constantly scanning for danger. You’re restless even in calm moments. It’s that voice in the back of your head whispering, “What did I forget?” or “What if everything falls apart?”

This kind of chronic vigilance wears you down and over time, it impacts your health, your sleep, your relationships, and your quality of life.

How Anxiety Shows Up in the Body

One of the most important things I share with clients is this: if you don’t deal with it mentally, your body will carry it physically.

Chronic anxiety can lead to:

Frequent headaches
Muscle tension or jaw clenching
Upset stomach or nausea
Fatigue and low energy
Sleep disturbances
Increased heart rate or shallow breathing

Your body will tell the story, even when your mouth stays quiet.

So What Can You Do About It?

You are not broken. You are not weak. You are likely overwhelmed, and there is support for that.

Here are a few evidence-based tools and strategies I use with my clients (and in my own life):

✅ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT helps you challenge intrusive thoughts and replace them with grounded, realistic beliefs. Just because you think it doesn’t make it true.

✅ Mindfulness & Grounding Techniques

From the 5-4-3-2-1 sensory scan to 4×4 breathing and progressive muscle relaxation, these tools bring you back to the present moment where peace lives.

✅ Psychoeducation

Learning about anxiety, how it shows up, what triggers it, and what your brain is actually doing is empowering. Education is a form of healing.

✅ Somatic Awareness

Anxiety isn’t just in your head. It lives in your body. Exercise, stretching, and somatic therapies can help move that anxious energy out.

Take the GAD-7 Screener

If you’re wondering whether what you’re feeling is anxiety, the GAD-7 is a quick and simple screening tool that can help. It asks about your symptoms over the past week and offers a score that can guide your next steps.

🔗 Take the GAD-7 Now

Remember, your score doesn’t define you. But it can inform you, and that’s where change begins.

Final Thoughts: You Deserve More Than Survival

If you’re constantly pushing through, planning your way out of panic, or living in your head 24/7, please hear this:

You deserve more than survival mode.
You deserve rest.
You deserve peace.
You deserve to feel like yourself again.

🎥 Watch the Full Episode: Anxiety Has You Trapped in Survival Mode

Ready to Take the First Step?

If something in this resonated with you, take the first step by checking in with your body, your mind, and your spirit. Whether you’re seeking therapy, exploring self-help tools, or just starting to put language to what you’re feeling, this conversation is for you.

📍 Looking for a therapist in Texas? Reach out to me here to learn more or schedule a session.

📚 Outside of Texas? Explore Psychology Today or Open Path Collective to find support near you.

Need support now?
📞 Call or text 988 for immediate help through the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

And if this post resonated with you, I invite you to watch the full podcast episode below for a deeper, more personal conversation on anxiety and what healing can look like.

Functional Depression: The Silent Heavy Burden So Many Are Carrying

By M.B.S. Whole Health | June 25, 2025 | Comments 0 Comment

We often associate depression with visible signs like crying, isolating, or struggling to get out of bed. But what if you’re still getting things done? Still working, still parenting, still showing up while silently breaking down inside? That’s the quiet reality of functional depression. It’s not always loud. It doesn’t always stop you in your tracks. Sometimes, it whispers in the background of your busy life, slowly wearing you down while the world keeps applauding your strength.

What Is Functional Depression?

Functional depression isn’t a clinical diagnosis you’ll find in the DSM-5. Instead, it’s a term used to describe people who live with persistent depressive symptoms while continuing to maintain daily responsibilities and routines. On the outside, everything looks fine. On the inside, there’s a constant emotional weight.

Often, this aligns with a diagnosis of Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD), a low-grade, long-lasting form of depression that can linger for two years or more. People with functional depression may not feel deeply sad every day, but they often describe feeling emotionally flat, chronically tired, or simply “off.”

Signs You Might Be Experiencing Functional Depression

Functional depression hides behind productivity. You may be achieving, showing up for others, and even smiling through the day. But inside, you’re disconnected from joy and unsure why. Here are some common signs:

Chronic exhaustion, even after rest
Feeling emotionally numb or flat
Trouble experiencing joy even during good times
Being overly critical of yourself or struggling with self-worth
Difficulty focusing or finishing tasks
Pushing through without feeling truly present
Feeling overwhelmed by small things
Keeping busy to avoid emotional stillness

Why It’s Often Missed, Especially in High Performers

People with functional depression often appear to be doing well. They are praised for their productivity, resilience, or ability to juggle everything. But what others can’t see is the internal battle, a constant tension between appearing fine and feeling depleted.

This is especially true for Black women and other communities who carry cultural and generational expectations to be strong at all times. While resilience can be a strength, it can also become a mask that hides pain until it becomes unbearable.

The Emotional Toll of High-Functioning Pain

Living with functional depression can lead to:

Quiet burnout
Increased risk of anxiety or major depressive episodes
Relationship strain due to emotional disconnection
Physical symptoms like headaches, digestive issues, and sleep problems
Difficulty identifying and expressing personal needs

You don’t have to hit rock bottom to seek help. The earlier you name what you’re feeling, the sooner you can begin to heal.

Healing Starts with Awareness

Here are some supportive tools to begin the healing journey:

1. Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) are especially helpful in addressing negative thought patterns and reconnecting with emotional awareness. Therapy offers a judgment-free space to explore what’s really going on beneath the surface.

2. Medication
For some, antidepressants can be a helpful part of managing mood and rebalancing brain chemistry. Medication is not a weakness. It is a tool, just like therapy.

3. Rest and Recovery
This goes beyond sleep. Emotional rest means setting boundaries, stepping back from being “the strong one,” and allowing yourself space to not be okay.

4. Community
Supportive relationships and honest conversations can remind you that you’re not alone. You deserve connection, not isolation.

5. Self-Compassion
Speak to yourself the way you would a loved one. Being gentle with yourself in moments of struggle is not optional. It is necessary.

Just Because You’re Functioning Doesn’t Mean You’re Okay

We live in a culture that praises performance and productivity at the expense of mental health. But healing begins when we stop pretending and start checking in with ourselves.

You don’t have to carry the weight alone.
You don’t have to prove your worth through exhaustion.
You don’t have to keep pushing just because others expect you to.

Watch or Listen to the Full Episode

🎧 Podcast Title: Functional Depression | The Silent Heavy Burden
🖥️ Watch Now on YouTube: Click here to watch the full episode

Ready to Take the First Step?

If something in this resonated with you, please know you’re not alone and you’re not broken. Whether you’re seeking therapy, exploring self-help tools, or just starting to put language to what you’re feeling, this conversation is for you.

📍 Looking for a therapist in Texas? Reach out to me here to learn more or schedule a session.

📚 Outside of Texas? Explore Psychology Today or Open Path Collective to find support near you.

Need support now?
📞 Call or text 988 for immediate help through the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

If this blog resonated with you, consider sharing it with someone who might need it. Let’s keep the conversation going.

Understanding Trauma: Recognizing and Healing the Hidden Scars

By M.B.S. Whole Health | June 4, 2025 | Comments 0 Comment

Trauma is often misunderstood. While many people think trauma only involves dramatic or catastrophic events, it can also emerge from seemingly smaller, everyday experiences that leave significant emotional and psychological marks. In this blog post, we explore what trauma truly is, how it manifests, and practical ways you can begin your healing journey.

Defining Trauma

According to the American Psychological Association (APA), trauma is an emotional response to a deeply distressing event that overwhelms your ability to cope, leaving you feeling helpless or unsafe. Trauma isn’t limited to major life events like physical assault or natural disasters; it includes everyday experiences, such as neglect, betrayal, chronic stress, racial trauma, grief, and medical procedures.

Recognizing Signs of Trauma

Trauma can show up differently for everyone. Common indicators include:

Hypervigilance: Constantly scanning for danger.
Emotional numbness: Detachment or dissociation from surroundings.
Chronic anxiety or depression: Persistent feelings of unease without a clear cause.
Relationship difficulties: Struggling with trust, intimacy, or vulnerability.
Survival mode: Constantly feeling the need to protect oneself, never truly relaxing.

Big “T” Trauma vs. Little “t” Trauma

Trauma can be categorized into “Big T” trauma (significant, life-changing events) and “little t” trauma (daily experiences often overlooked). Both types profoundly impact your mental, emotional, and physical health. Little “t” traumas, such as repeated criticism, emotional neglect, or gaslighting, can be equally damaging over time.

Trauma in Black Women

Societal expectations of strength and resilience often cause Black women to overlook their trauma symptoms. Socialized to appear strong, many Black women unknowingly carry unresolved trauma, mistaking it for personality traits or daily stress.

The Impact of Trauma

Trauma doesn’t only affect mental health. It manifests physically, emotionally, and behaviorally:

Physical: Digestive issues, tension, sleep disturbances.
Emotional: Mood swings, irritability, emotional shutdown.
Behavioral: People-pleasing, avoiding intimacy, overworking.

Healing is Possible

Recognizing trauma is the first step towards healing. Key therapeutic approaches include:

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing): Helps process trauma and reduce its emotional impact.
Somatic Therapy: Focuses on releasing trauma stored physically in the body.
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT): Repairs attachment wounds from past relationships.
Psychoeducation: Empowers you through understanding trauma and its effects.

Begin Your Healing Journey

You are not broken, and healing is possible. Start by taking stock of your experiences. Reflect honestly on your past, recognize symptoms, and seek professional support. Trauma-informed therapy can provide a supportive pathway toward healing, helping you release trauma’s hold and reclaim your emotional freedom.

If you’re in Texas and looking for personalized support, consider connecting virtually for trauma-informed counseling.

Ready to take the next step?

If this post stirred something in you, maybe a quiet memory, an old wound, or just a new sense of curiosity, let that be your sign to go deeper.

Your trauma doesn’t have to define you, and you don’t have to carry it alone. Healing is possible when you have the right support and space to unpack what’s been buried or minimized for far too long.

🎧 Dive deeper by watching the full podcast episode: Trauma or Drama? Uncovering Hidden Scars

If you’re in Texas and looking for therapy, reach out to me here.

If you’re located elsewhere and need guidance, I can help connect you with resources or therapists in your area.

You deserve support that honors your full story. Your healing is valid, your pain is real, and your path forward matters.

Need support now?
📞 Call or text 988 for immediate help through the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

If this blog resonated with you, consider sharing it with someone who might need it. Let’s keep the conversation going.

#TraumaInformed #EMDRTherapist #HealingTrauma #BlackWomenHealing #MentalHealthAwareness #TherapyForBlackWomen #MentalHealthMatters #ThisTherapistHasProblemsPodcast #MBSWholeHealth

Why Social Media Isn’t Your Therapist: Social Media Self-Diagnosis

By M.B.S. Whole Health | May 27, 2025 | Comments 0 Comment

We Need to Talk About Mental Health Trends on Social Media

If you’ve ever watched a TikTok that said, “You might have ADHD if…” or found yourself scrolling through a trauma story that hit a little too close to home, you’re not alone.
Social media has become one of the loudest voices in the mental health conversation, and while that has opened some important doors, it has also created confusion.

In this week’s episode of This Therapist Has Problems Podcast, I’m diving into the growing trend of self-diagnosis based on what we see online and what we need to be mindful of.

The Rise of “Relatable” Mental Health Content

Let me start by saying this: I love that we’re talking about mental health more than ever before. For so long, topics like anxiety, depression, and trauma were avoided or hidden.
Now, mental health shows up on our timelines daily. That visibility can be powerful. People feel seen, validated, and less alone.

But here’s the other side. Relatable does not always mean diagnosable.

When Relatable Becomes Risky

One of the biggest concerns I see in my therapy work is how quickly people start to self-diagnose after seeing a few trending videos.

You’ve probably seen the posts:

“If you lose your keys all the time, you might have ADHD”
“If you feel sad and tired, you may be depressed”
“If you like things clean, maybe you have OCD”

The truth? These symptoms can overlap with stress, burnout, sleep deprivation, or just being human.

Without a full clinical evaluation, it’s not safe or helpful to label yourself with a disorder. Misdiagnosis can lead to unnecessary fear, avoidance, or using a label as a crutch instead of a pathway to healing.

Traits vs. Disorders: There’s a Big Difference

One of the most important things I highlight in the episode is this:
A trait is not a disorder.

Maybe you’re more introverted. Maybe you love routines or need your space to be clean. That doesn’t mean you’re on the autism spectrum or that you have OCD.

When we start assigning ourselves clinical terms without professional guidance, we may be limiting ourselves, reinforcing false narratives, or miscommunicating our needs to others.

What to Do When a Video Hits Home

Here’s how to take a more mindful approach when something you see online feels personal:

Pause and reflect
Ask yourself: Is this a consistent pattern in my life, or just a moment I relate to right now?
Do some research from credible sources
Websites like NAMI, Mayo Clinic, and Psychology Today provide research-backed definitions and criteria.
Talk to a licensed professional
Social media can be a starting point, but it is not a diagnostic tool. Only a mental health provider can assess your full experience in context.
Be aware of confirmation bias
Just because something feels true does not mean it is clinically accurate.
Balance your feed
Mental health content is great, but mix in joy, humor, and content that uplifts you. You are more than what you struggle with.

You Are More Than a Trend or a Label

Here’s what I want you to know, whether you’re just starting your mental health journey or deep in the process:
You are not broken. You are not alone. And you are more than a label.

A diagnosis, when appropriate, is just a tool to help guide treatment and support. It should never become your full identity.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If something you’ve seen online has made you pause and wonder, I invite you to take that curiosity offline and into a space that’s built to support you.

And if you haven’t already, be sure to check out the full podcast episode for a deeper dive into these tools and real-life reflections.

🎧 Watch now: Mental Health Trends & Self-Diagnosis

If you’re in Texas and looking for therapy, reach out to me here.

If you’re located elsewhere and not sure where to begin, I’m happy to help connect you to resources or providers in your state.

You deserve care that’s personal, grounded, and built around your needs, not a social media algorithm.

Need support now?
📞 Call or text 988 for immediate help through the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Thanks for reading. If this blog resonated with you, please share it with someone who might need to hear it. Let’s keep the conversation going.

#ThisTherapistHasProblemsPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #SelfDiagnosis #TikTokMentalHealth #NatashaMontgomeryLPCS #DFWTherapist #BlackTherapist #TexasTherapist #MentalHealthEducation

Emotionally Burnt Out? It’s Okay to Say “I Don’t Have It Right Now”

By M.B.S. Whole Health | April 8, 2025 | Comments 0 Comment

Let’s be honest — we’re tired. And not the kind of tired a nap can fix. The emotional exhaustion is real, and it’s showing up in our bodies, our moods, our relationships, and our capacity to function. If that sounds familiar, know that you’re not alone.

In this week’s episode of This Therapist Has Problems Podcast, I opened up about what burnout looks like for me, as a therapist, a mother, a business owner, and a Black woman. And I know so many of you are navigating similar spaces, wearing multiple hats, and trying to keep all the pieces together while running on empty.

When You’ve Been Running on “E”

Burnout doesn’t always announce itself loudly. Sometimes it sneaks in as irritability, fatigue, disinterest in things you used to love, or even physical symptoms like headaches and tension. For me, it shows up in the middle of my packed schedule, right after school drop-offs, therapy sessions, family responsibilities, and administrative tasks, when all I can do is crash.

We’ve all heard the saying: “You can’t pour from an empty cup.” But what happens when you’re still expected to keep showing up, even when your cup has been empty for days?

That’s the weight many of us carry. We’re the helpers, the problem-solvers, the strong friends. But even strong friends need rest.

Recognizing the Signs of Emotional Burnout

Burnout doesn’t just happen overnight. It builds. Slowly. And if we’re not careful, it can completely consume us.

Here are some signs to watch out for:

Emotional Exhaustion: You feel numb, on edge, or constantly irritated.
Physical Symptoms: Frequent illness, tension in your shoulders, headaches, and fatigue.
Resentment: You find yourself annoyed when people call or ask for help- not because you don’t care, but because you simply don’t have it to give.
Loss of Joy: The things that once brought peace now feel like one more thing on your to-do list.

If you’re checking even one of those boxes, pause. Breathe. You might be carrying too much.

Setting Boundaries Without Guilt

One of the hardest things for helpers and “strong friends” to do is say no especially without explaining or apologizing. But boundaries are necessary. They are a declaration that you matter too.

✅ No is a full sentence.
✅ You don’t owe anyone an explanation for prioritizing your peace.
✅ Taking time for yourself doesn’t make you selfish — it makes you sustainable.

Start by pausing before agreeing to help. Ask yourself:

Do I want to do this?
Do I have the energy or time?
Am I saying yes because I feel guilty?

If the answer feels like pressure, give yourself permission to say no.

Recharging Your Battery

Once you start setting boundaries, you might find yourself with more space emotionally and physically. Now what? This is where the real work begins: learning to refill your cup.

Here’s how:

Find your reset button — whether it’s time in nature, painting, journaling, or binge-watching your favorite show.
Communicate with your support system — don’t suffer in silence. Ask for help.
Schedule rest like it’s non-negotiable — because it is. Your rest deserves as much priority as any work deadline.
Make room for joy — not just survival. Call your friends just to laugh, not just to vent.

Friendship and support should be mutual, not just spaces for crisis. You deserve people in your life who fill you up, not just lean on you.

You Can’t Pour From a Depleted Cup

Here’s the truth: You deserve to rest without guilt. You deserve to unplug without explaining. You deserve to feel supported, not just needed.

This isn’t about abandoning people, it’s about not abandoning yourself. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, or emotionally stretched thin, let this be your reminder: it’s okay to take a breather.

💬 Drop a comment below:
What’s one way you plan to recharge this week? Whether it’s setting a boundary, saying no, or carving out alone time, let’s hold each other accountable.

🎧 Watch the full episode of the podcast here:
👉 https://youtu.be/EmdOAkT9FLU

Thank You for Stepping Into This Space With Me

Remember: emotional burnout is not weakness, it’s a signal. A call to pause. A moment to check in with yourself. Take it. You’re worth it.

Let’s stop glorifying overextending and start embracing balance.

You can contact a therapist, join a support group, or call a mental health hotline. There’s absolutely no shame in needing more support than you currently have.

📞 Call or text 988 to reach a trained crisis counselor 24/7.

If you’re looking for therapy resources, try:

If you’re in Texas and seeking a therapist, click here to request an appointment with me
Therapy for Black Girls
Psychology Today
Open Path Collective

#ThisTherapistHasProblemsPodcast, #MBSWholeHealth, #DFWTherapist, #FortWorthTherapist, #TexasTherapist, #KellerTherapist, #TTHPPodcast, #Counselor, #PodcastPremiere

When Life Feels Out of Control: Practicing Radical Acceptance

By M.B.S. Whole Health | March 25, 2025 | Comments 0 Comment

Let’s be honest, life has been a lot lately. Between unpredictable news cycles, social media overload, and real-life responsibilities, it can feel like we’re just trying to keep our heads above water. And for many of us, the more we try to stay informed and in control, the more overwhelmed we become.

In this post, we’re diving into how to care for your mental and emotional health when the world around you feels chaotic, and how practicing radical acceptance can help you regain some peace.

Life is Happening… Fast

Whether you’ve personally been affected by job loss, rising costs of living, or emotional burnout, or you’re just overwhelmed by the constant stream of bad news, you’re not alone. We’re all navigating a lot, and sometimes it feels like the ground is shifting beneath us.

I shared on the podcast a personal moment from the start of the pandemic when I lost my job unexpectedly while adjusting to life as a single mom. That season taught me what it really means to face uncertainty head-on and reminded me how important it is to focus on what is in our control when everything else feels out of it.

Let’s Talk About Radical Acceptance

Radical acceptance is the idea that we acknowledge reality as it is, not as we want it to be. It doesn’t mean you’re okay with what’s happening. It doesn’t mean you like it. It simply means you stop fighting against what you can’t change.

Instead of staying stuck in resistance (“This shouldn’t be happening”), radical acceptance says, “This is happening. Now how do I want to respond?”

It’s a mindset shift that helps reduce emotional suffering by letting go of the mental tug-of-war.

Signs You Might Need to Pause

If you’re:

Feeling tense or anxious while scrolling social media
Consuming back-to-back news stories until your body feels exhausted
Experiencing racing thoughts, emotional fatigue, or burnout

…it’s time to check in with yourself.

The constant intake of information, especially heavy or traumatic content, can wear down your nervous system. It’s okay to step away. Taking breaks from media, setting boundaries with your screen time, and curating your feed to include more uplifting or neutral content are all healthy ways to protect your peace.

Ground Yourself in the Present

When the world feels like it’s moving too fast, grounding techniques can help bring you back to the here and now. Some tools to try:

Pause and breathe. Intentional breathing slows your nervous system and clears mental clutter.
Progressive muscle relaxation. Tense and release muscle groups from your toes to your head.
5-4-3-2-1 mindfulness. Name 5 things you see, 4 you can touch, 3 you hear, 2 you smell, and 1 you taste.

These practices aren’t about ignoring your problems. They’re about regulating your body so you can approach challenges with a clearer mind.

Mantras That Help Reframe the Moment

Sometimes, a simple phrase can remind us of what we do have control over. Try repeating:

“This is hard, but I can handle it.”
“I don’t have to like it to accept it.”
“I release what I can’t control.”

You can write these on sticky notes, save them as reminders, or say them aloud when you feel tension rising.

Support Systems Matter

Let me say this clearly: you do not have to carry everything alone.

Whether it’s a close friend, your therapist, or your group chat, leaning on your support system can be the pressure release you need when everything feels like too much. Sometimes, support also looks like choosing solitude to recharge. Just be sure you’re listening to what you need.

Know When to Reach for More Help

If the uncertainty starts to feel too heavy, if you’re struggling to function, feeling emotionally unsafe, or losing hope, it’s time to ask for help.

You can contact a therapist, join a support group, or call a mental health hotline. There’s absolutely no shame in needing more support than you currently have.

📞 Call or text 988 to reach a trained crisis counselor 24/7.

If you’re looking for therapy resources, try:

If you’re in Texas and seeking a therapist, click here to request an appointment with me
Therapy for Black Girls
Psychology Today
Open Path Collective

Thank You for Stepping Into This Space With Me

Remember, navigating uncertainty isn’t about pretending everything is okay. It’s about giving yourself permission to slow down, feel what you’re feeling, and focus on what you can control.

Practicing radical acceptance takes patience, self-awareness, and the willingness to release what isn’t serving you. You’re not alone in this process. I’m here with you every step of the way.

Let’s keep this conversation going.

And if you haven’t already, be sure to check out the full podcast episode for a deeper dive into these tools and real-life reflections.

🎧 Watch now: When Life Feels Out of Control: Practicing Radical Acceptance

Let’s stop trying to carry everything on our own and start creating space for peace, balance, and healing together.

#ThisTherapistHasProblemsPodcast, #MBSWholeHealth, #DFWTherapist, #FortWorthTherapist, #TexasTherapist, #KellerTherapist, #TTHPPodcast, #Counselor, #PodcastPremiere, #RadicalAcceptance, #MentalHealthMatters, #ProtectYourPeace