top of page
Latest Articles
Search


Managing Holiday Stress: Recognizing Triggers and Finding Joy in the Season
The holiday season often brings a mix of excitement and pressure. While many look forward to celebrations and time with loved ones, others feel overwhelmed by the demands that come with this time of year. If you find yourself stressed or anxious during the holidays, you are not alone. Understanding what triggers your stress is the first step toward managing it and finding moments of joy. Once you recognize your triggers, you can take steps to reduce stress and enjoy the seas
mrebekahshurtleff
Dec 43 min read


Embracing the Power of Forgiveness: A Path to Healing This Holiday Season
Forgiveness does not mean forgetting or excusing hurtful actions. Instead, it means deciding to release the emotional weight that comes with past pain. Many families carry generational trauma—patterns of hurt and misunderstanding passed down through years. Recognizing these patterns is the first step toward breaking free from them. Forgiving family members can be difficult. It takes time, patience, and sometimes courage to face painful memories. gather. Choosing forgiveness
mrebekahshurtleff
Nov 203 min read


Navigating Family Stress During Holidays Tips for Joyful Gatherings
The holiday season often brings excitement and warmth, but it can also stir up stress and tension within families. When relatives gather, old conflicts and unresolved feelings sometimes resurface, making celebrations challenging. Understanding how to manage these mo ments can transform holiday gatherings into joyful experiences that strengthen family bonds. The holiday season offers a chance to deepen family connections, but the work does not end when the celebrations do.
mrebekahshurtleff
Nov 83 min read


Understanding the Roots of Over-Apologizing and How to Break the Cycle
Understanding why you apologize too much is key to changing the habit and improving your social interactions. By recognizing the brain mechanisms involved, the effects of trauma, and learned behaviors, you can take meaningful steps towards change. Through self-awareness, challenging negative thinking, setting boundaries, and seeking support, you can foster healthier communication habits. Remember, you deserve to express yourself without constantly apologizing.
mrebekahshurtleff
Oct 194 min read


Is Venting with Friends Harmless or a Cycle of Negative Reinforcement?
Repeatedly recounting a distressing event can increase stress hormones like cortisol. Each retelling reinforces negative feelings, creating a habit that’s hard to break. Friends may offer empathy, but this can inadvertently keep us locked in a loop of despair instead of steering us toward solutions. It may feel good momentarily, it can also deepen anxiety and create a sense of helplessness. Breaking the cycle of negativity can be achieved by shifting the focus from venting to
mrebekahshurtleff
Oct 153 min read


Stop the Blame Game and Take Control of Your Life Through Self-Awareness and Forgiveness
Moving Forward: Embracing Growth
Ultimately, the journey to self-awareness and forgiveness is an individual path. It requires commitment and a willingness to face uncomfortable truths. Practicing radical acceptance means releasing the need to blame others for our current troubles. Forgiving those who have hurt us reclaims our power and directs our focus toward the future. It’s about understanding that we have the potential to shape our lives, no matter what we’ve experienc
mrebekahshurtleff
Oct 44 min read


The Friendship Recession: Finding Meaningful Connections as We Age
While the friendship recession may seem overwhelming, it also presents a chance to reshape our social circles for the better.
By welcoming change, taking initiative, and nurturing meaningful relationships, we can navigate this new friendship landscape with a sense of purpose. Remember that friendship is a journey—it evolves, and every effort you make can lead to richer, more fulfilling connections.
mrebekahshurtleff
Aug 313 min read


Essential Tips to Nurture Family Connections That Last a Lifetime
Just as we invest in our careers or personal growth, investing in family relationships is crucial for long-term happiness. Building strong connections requires intentional effort. Make it a priority to spend quality time together, engage in meaningful conversations, and create shared experiences. Research indicates that families who prioritize these elements report an 85% overall satisfaction in their relationships. Remember, the time and energy you dedicate to nurturing thes
mrebekahshurtleff
Aug 294 min read


Boost Your Self-Worth with These Simple Daily Empowerment Techniques
Elevating your self-worth is an ongoing journey. Through dedication, you can cultivate valuable practices that foster self-esteem. Challenge negative thoughts, practice self-compassion, celebrate your achievements, set realistic goals, and nurture positive relationships. Every small change can lead to significant transformation. Start today and experience the uplift in your self-worth! Contact me at rebekahcounseling.com
mrebekahshurtleff
Jul 263 min read


Mastering Emotional Overload: Essential Strategies for Stress Management and Building Resilience
Feeling overwhelmed is a common hurdle, but it can be managed with effective strategies. Focus on the present moment, break tasks into smaller steps, prioritize your well-being, and seek support when needed. Recognize your resilience, limit stressors, challenge negative thoughts, and celebrate your small wins.
mrebekahshurtleff
May 64 min read


Embracing Your Inner Light: How Self-Reflection and Compassion Can Transform Your Life
Self-reflection is key to personal growth and understanding yourself better.
mrebekahshurtleff
Apr 83 min read


The Top 5 Surprising Benefits of Premarital Counseling You Didn't Know
Premarital counseling is designed to address various areas critical for a successful marriage no matter what stage in life.
mrebekahshurtleff
Mar 83 min read


The Power of Self-Love in Transforming Relationships and Resolving Conflict
Every step you take toward self-acceptance is a step toward fostering a more profound relational love.
mrebekahshurtleff
Mar 13 min read


Exploring the Nuances of Being Alone Versus Feeling Lonely During the Holidays
As the holidays approach, it’s important to differentiate between being physically alone and the deeper sense of loneliness.
mrebekahshurtleff
Dec 18, 20243 min read
Content by Rebekah Shurtleff Marriage and Family Therapist
bottom of page
