DIVE INTO THERAPY
Starting therapy can feel daunting!
Fear not, as KD Holmes, LPC, and Monet David, LPC, are here to guide you through the process. From finding the perfect therapist to scheduling appointments, and dispelling common therapy myths, they have got you covered.
Rest assured, our team of trained clinicians are here to guide you towards the change you desire.
Moving Clients towards Change
Dive into the art of guiding change with Motivational Interviewing! 🎨 Dr. Allison Buller stands at the forefront, leading our path to better outcomes in therapy one conversation at a time.
At KDH Counseling
We take a comprehensive approach to your mental health
- Obsessions
- Compulsive Behaviors
- Phobias
- Panic Attacks
- Avoidance Patterns
- Worrying
- Negative Self Talk
- Catastrophizing
- Somatic Sensations
- Depressed Mood
- Anger and Irritalbity
- Problems Sleeping
- Problems with Attention
- Single Incedent Traumatic event
- Developmental Trauma (Physical, emotional, sexual abuse)
- Many more
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
- Obsessive Compulisive Disorder (OCD)
- Phobias
- Panic Disorder
- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
- Autism (ASD)
- Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD)
- Cultural
- Neurodiversity
- Religious
- Sexual Identities
- Sexual Orientations
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
- Exposure Therapy
- Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
- Radically Open DBT (RO DBT)
- Cognitive Behavoiral Therapy (CBT)
- Eye Movemnt Desentization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
- Deep Brain Reorienting (DBR)
- Trauma-Informed Therapy
- Neurodiversity Affirming Therapy
- Motivational Interviewing
- Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy
BIOLOGY OF THE BRAIN & MENTAL HEALTH
KD Holmes, MS, LPC, EMDR Certified and Whitney Storey, MS, LPC, PMH-C delve into the world of the brain, and how a deeper understanding of its biological workings can provide invaluable insights into anxiety and mental health.
SYMPTOMS VS DIAGNOSIS
Whether mental health symptoms are experienced in isolation or serve as indicators of a specific diagnosis, taking proactive measures is always the best approach.
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ANXIETY
GENERALIZED ANIETY DISORDER GAD, PANIC DISORDER, OR PHOBIAS
Anxiety consists of worrying multiple times throughout the day. Ruminating thoughts, where negative or catastrophic ideas become trapped in a never-ending cycle within your mind. Not to be forgotten, somatic sensations such as a racing heart, stomach aches, trembling, depersonalization, or the unsettling feeling of derealization. Panic sensation or panic attacks, or phobias, ranging from the fear of bridges and vomiting to needles, flying, and even snakes. Anxiety and related disorders is treated with Trauma Therapy and Exposure Therapy.
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TRAUMA
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Trauma can manifest as a singular incident, like a car accident or a housefire, or as a series of events, such as those experienced in war. On the other hand, developmental trauma is characterized by its chronic and repetitive nature, often involving physical, sexual, or emotional abuse. It is important to note that while some individuals may meet the criteria for PTSD, others may exhibit symptoms of depression or anxiety, necessitating consideration of their trauma history during treatment.
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OBSESSIONS
OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE DISORDER (OCD), AND ILLNESS ANXIETY DISORDER
Obsessions and compulsions consist of obsessions that are followed by internal or external compulsions that individuals cannot stop repeating. OCD and Illness Anxiety Disorder is treated with Exposure and Response Prevention.
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DEPRESSION & MOOD DISORDERS
Major Depressive Disorder MDD
Symptoms of depression consist of depressed mood, flat affect, low motivation, irritability, anger, problems sleeping, and difficulty executing tasks. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Radically Open DBT, ACT, and Trauma therapy are really useful in treating Major Depressive Disorder.
Bipolar Disorder
It involves episodes of mood swings ranging from depressive lows to manic highs. The depressive episodes mirror those in major depressive disorder, while manic episodes might include high energy, reduce need for sleep, and in some cases lost touch with reality.
And other Diagnosis
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PERFECTIONISM & OVERACHIEVING
Perfectionism is a prevalent symptom found in some individuals with anxiety disorders, OCD, Autism, and ADHD. To address this pattern, effective treatment options include ERP, ACT, and trauma therapy.
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WORKING WITH TEENS & FAMILIES
Working with Teens
Check out KDH Counseling's principles on working with teens and how she views the role of parents in their teen's therapy.
OCD THEMES AND ERP
KD Holmes, MS, LPC and Ashley Rush, MS, PLPC discuss OCD subtypes (harm OCD, pedophile OCD, scrupulosity, postpartum OCD, contamination OCD, just right OCD, existential OCD, sexual orientation OCD, relationship OCD), and ERP treatment.
DIVERSITY
Diversity is essential in therapy because it promotes inclusivity, ensures effective communication, and allows for the tailoring of treatment to individual's needs. It also helps reduce stigma and build trust, ultimately leading to more successful therapeutic outcomes for clients from diverse backgrounds.
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CULTURAL
Therapists must be aware of and sensitive to clients' diverse cultural backgrounds, as these can influence their mental health needs. Understanding these nuances is crucial for effective therapy. Cultural diversity emphasizes the need for personalized and culturally tailored treatment approaches, where therapists adapt techniques to align with clients' preferences. Culturally competent therapists create a safe, non-judgmental environment that encourages individuals from diverse backgrounds to seek support and overcome mental health stigmas. Building trust is crucial for successful therapy outcomes, with clients more likely to trust therapists who respect and understand their cultural identity. Cultural diversity encourages therapists to consider not only mental health but also cultural, social, and environmental factors that contribute to well-being or challenges. Recognizing and valuing cultural diversity makes therapy inclusive and accessible to everyone, sending a message that mental health services are available and welcoming to all.
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RELIGIOUS
Religious diversity is crucial in therapy because it respects and acknowledges the impact of individuals' faith and beliefs on their values, morals, and coping mechanisms. It also helps therapists understand the cultural context and provides a moral and ethical framework for addressing ethical dilemmas. Additionally, therapists should be aware of and incorporate clients' coping strategies and support their spiritual well-being. By promoting understanding, reducing stigma, and providing whole-person care, therapy becomes more comprehensive and respectful, ultimately leading to better therapeutic outcomes.
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SEXUAL IDENTITIES AND ORIENTATIONS
Individuals may identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, pansexual, or asexual, each term denoting distinct patterns of emotional, romantic, and/or sexual attraction. These identities are not mutually exclusive, with some individuals embracing fluidity and identifying under umbrella terms like queer. Notably, sexual orientation is distinct from gender identity, further enriching the tapestry of human self-expression. Understanding and respecting this spectrum acknowledges the inherent value of individual experience and celebrates the multiplicity of ways humans choose to love and connect. By embracing this diversity, we foster a more inclusive and equitable world where all individuals can thrive.
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NEURODIVDERGENCE (ADHD & AUTISM)
Neurodiversity encompasses the intricate neurological differences inherent in all human beings, while neurodivergence refers specifically to the distinctive neurological variations associated with Autism, ADHD, trauma, learning differences, and various other diagnoses. These extraordinary ways of processing information not only shape our individual experiences, but also significantly impact our mental well-being.
Another common difference in Neurodivergence is sensory differences common in Autism, ADHD, and Trauma impact mental health, relationships, and effective coping. Sensory profiles, ranging from hyper or hypo sensitivities to auditory, visual, proprioception, olfactory, vestibular, and tactile experiences. These differences can be difference or a disabilities and relates to mental health symptoms.
Neurodiversity Affirming Therapy serves as a fundamental pillar in providing therapeutic support to this population, although other therapeutic approaches can be equally effective or adapted, including EMDR, DBR, Trauma-Informed Therapy, ERP, Exposure Therapy, ACT, DBT, and RO DBT.
WHAT IS NEURODIVERGENCE?
THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES
We use therapeutic approaches built upon research. By utilizing these evidence-based approaches, we aim to achieve results for our clients.
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EYE MOVMENT DESENTIZATION AND REPROCESSING
EMDR, a treatment method pioneered by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, offers hope and relief to individuals grappling with the aftermath of traumatic memories, including those with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). By harnessing the power of bilateral stimulation, employing a meticulously designed 8-phase treatment plan, and reprocessing memories, EMDR aims to alleviate distress and pave the way for healing.
EMDR therapy has proven to be highly effective in reducing symptoms of PTSD, providing hope and relief to individuals struggling with traumatic memories. A comprehensive meta-analysis focused on children with PTSD also highlighted the significant impact of EMDR therapy in reducing symptoms. Furthermore, this groundbreaking therapy has shown promising results in alleviating symptoms of depression, with studies demonstrating substantial reductions in depression scores. Additionally EMDR therapy has demonstrated significant improvements in the subjective distress index, further supporting its effectiveness in promoting healing and well-being.
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ACCEPTANCE AND COMMITMENT THERAPY
ACT is a therapeutic approach that merges the practices of mindfulness and behavioral strategies to empower individuals in embracing a life that aligns with their deepest values, while also nurturing their psychological adaptability. This scientifically proven approach effectively addresses a diverse array of mental health conditions, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, PTSD, and chronic pain.
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EXPOSURE AND RESPONSE PREVENTION
ERP is the gold standard treatment for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). The technique involves gradually exposing individuals to situations or thoughts that trigger their OCD, while simultaneously assisting them in developing the ability to resist the compulsion to engage in repetitive behaviors. The ultimate aim of ERP is to diminish the anxiety associated with these triggers over time, resulting in a reduction of the compulsive behaviors.
Studies have shown that ERP is remarkably effective, with success rates ranging from 60% to 85% in treating individuals with OCD.
EXPOSURE THERAPY
Exposure therapy is a powerful psychological treatment designed to help individuals conquer their deepest fears. When someone experiences fear, it's natural for them to avoid the things that frighten them, whether it be objects, activities, or situations. While this avoidance may provide temporary relief from anxiety, it ultimately hinders their ability to overcome their fears in the long term. That's why, in exposure therapy, clients are encouraged to gradually face their fears head-on.
The effectiveness of exposure therapy has been proven time and time again for a wide range of conditions, including specific phobias, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It decreases health anxiety in 51%-63% of individuals. The key to successful exposure therapy lies in the creation of a carefully constructed fear hierarchy, the client's willingness to confront their fears, and the expert guidance of a trained therapist.
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NEURODIVERSITY AFFIRMING THERAPY
Neurodiversity-affirming therapy is an approach aimed at empowering clients who are neurodivergent, meaning they possess unique neurological differences like Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, and other conditions. This therapy not only recognizes and cherishes neurodiversity as a natural variation of the human brain, but also strives to create a nurturing and all-inclusive environment for clients. By acknowledging the inherent worth and diversity of neurodivergent individuals and supporting their success in a world that may not always understand, this client-centered approach is dedicated to enhancing overall well-being and fostering self-acceptance among neurodivergent clients.
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DIALECTICAL BEHAVIORAL THERAPY
Dialectical Behavior Therapy
DBT was developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan in 1980. DBT effectively treats borderline personality disorder (BPD), depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and eating disorders. By emphasizes the cultivation of skills of mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal skills.
Studies have demonstrated remarkable advancements in depressive symptoms, emotion regulation, and suicidality among adolescent participants. In adult studies, DBT has proven to significantly enhance mindfulness skills, while also offering relief from depressive symptoms and improved emotional control.
Radically Open Dialectical Behavioral Therapy
RO DBT is a specialized form of DBT designed for individuals struggling with disorders of overcontrol, characterized by excessive self-control. It aims to address a range of challenges including chronic depression, treatment-resistant anxiety disorders, anorexia nervosa, and certain personality disorders. It can also help in Neurodivergent populations where overovercontrol can problematic like in Autism. By teaching valuable skills that promote openness, flexibility, and social connectedness, RO DBT seeks to counteract the detrimental effects of excessive self-control such as social isolation, rigidity, and difficulty adapting to changing circumstances. Studies have shown significant improvements in treating maladaptive control through the use of RO DBT.
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COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY
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DEEP BRAIN REORIENTING
DBR, a groundbreaking trauma therapy, is designed to delve deep into the core of traumatic experiences. By tracking the original sequence of physiological responses triggered when the deep brain senses a threat or attachment disruption, DBR sets itself apart from other therapies like EMDR because its primary focus is to directly address trauma by reorienting the brain's response to traumatic events, ultimately minimizing their long-lasting impact.
The remarkable effectiveness of Deep Brain Reorienting (DBR) in treating PTSD has been demonstrated through significant improvements. These improvements, surpassing those seen in EMDR statistics on effectiveness. Notably, a remarkable 52% reduction in CAPS-total (a PTSD Scale) was observed at the three-month follow-up, with participants no longer meeting the criteria for PTSD after undergoing DBR treatment.
These compelling results strongly indicate that DBR holds great promise as a highly effective treatment for PTSD, showcasing a substantial reduction in symptoms and a remarkable percentage of participants no longer meeting the criteria for PTSD following treatment.
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MINDFULNESS
FAQ ON EMDR
Isla Turner, LPC, EMDR Trained and KD Holmes, LPC, EMDR Certified explore common questions about EMDR therapy. Discover how EMDR works, debunk common misconceptions, and see the advantages of EMDR.