Kellevision

Take Two Yoga Classes and Call me in the Morning

I'm reading the August 2009 edition (yes I am a little bit behind in my reading) of Yoga Journal and I am reminded once again of all the benefits yoga has to offer in one's struggle for peace of mind and mental health.

"Scapegoating in Families", a Book Review

I'm reading a great book on scapegoating, "Scapegoating in Families: Intergenerational Patterns of Physical and Emotional Abuse".  The author, Vimala Pillari, does a beautiful job of describing the process by which this pattern is passed from generation to generation. 

A Culture of Victimhood and the Rise of Depression

Is it just me, or does everyone seem to be a victim these days?  Even White males are now claiming to be persecuted.  The problem with having a victim mentality is that it fosters depression.  Is it any wonder that depression rates are skyrocketing?

... and Private Murphy Smiled

Private Murphy smiled.  His drill instructor saw the smile and marched over to him, screaming, "What are you smiling about Private Murphy?!!!" 

How to Deal with Trauma Nightmares

One of the most distressing symptoms of trauma can be the nightmares it evokes.  They attack when you are peacefully asleep and off guard.  Not being able to get a good night's rest can seriously compromise your mental health and make other trauma symptoms worse.  If they persist you may even develop a fear of going to sleep. 

Therapy is Not to Make you Happy

I think a lot of clients (and some therapists unfortunately) have a misconception that therapy should make you feeling nothing but good.  This is simply not true. 

How Therapy Works

I write a lot about the importance of feeling your feelings and being in touch with the messages thay are sending you.  Perhaps this is because I rely so heavily on them in my everyday work.  I cannot imagine being without them. 

Affordable Housing Program becomes Educational Attainment Program - Huh?

I received an email today that the "AmeriCorps Keep Austin Housed Program is not being refunded".  They will instead initiate a program to help homeless youth seeking "educational attainment".  Sigh.

Practicing What I Preach

Why can't I have the same compassion for my family that I have for my clients?  I find I can be very empathic and tolerant of most any religion, political view, parenting philosophy, sexual orientation or type of relationship - in my clients.  I'm not always so patient with family members. 

On Being Defensive

"People don't get defensive unless they have something to defend."