Being an authentic person is something you may hear said from time to time. Many people do not know the answer to the question “how do I be my authentic self?”, because they don’t understand the question. It wasn’t until I became much older, after hearing this question, that I understood it. What do you mean my “authentic” self? My...[ read more ]
Although mental health is something that we are all touched by, many choose to be silent about the impact of mental health on our daily lives. While there has been more awareness with famous athletes being open about their struggles; many people often choose to struggle on their own. This week we celebrated World Mental Health Day to bring...[ read more ]
Why am I here? Ok, so not the deep philosophical question of “Why am I here?” but more the “What is my role here?”. Going a step further, let’s take a look at why I, April Daniel am here but also why you are here. First, I can tell you why I am here with great certainty. I am here...[ read more ]
Narcissism, a term we hear but what exactly does it mean? The definition of a narcissist is "a person who has excessive interest or pleasure, or admiration of themselves." In other words, someone who is self-centered, unwilling to admit fault, lacks empathy, and struggles to make emotional connections. How one develops this personality trait stems from several different factors including...[ read more ]
I love counseling. It’s like walking in your shoes, living out your experience. Not only do I learn about you and your challenges, I also feel some of what you feel. I get to see some of your worst moments. I vicariously feel your fear, loneliness, and confusion. Forgive me for this comparison. I use it only to give you...[ read more ]
When you catch your reflection as you walk past the grocery store window, there are three common reactions. The “I look good,” the “keep walking, I have places to be,” and the “oh… that’s what I look like?” I can almost guarantee that everyone has experienced all three of these reactions. And while the last reaction can help someone make...[ read more ]
Have you seen the videos of irate customers giving flack to employees? Seeing those outrageous displays makes me think about how people have become so quick to anger. I think “Jeez, I’m glad I’m not as negative as them.” But recently I’ve been noticing that I have a shorter fuse too. While I don’t raise my voice or throw things,...[ read more ]
At some point or another, you will most likely have a partner who you feel like you never see. Your schedules are exactly opposite, or they have so many necessary projects going on that you feel like you’re never in the same room anymore. These periods of time can feel lonely and isolating. It’s part of the tough necessities in...[ read more ]
When COVID-19 emerged, many people felt the need to focus on their own health and those of the loved ones in their home. After this difficult time of fear, anger, depression, anxiety and survival, it may be time to turn our attention towards helping others. After all, it is in giving that we receive and giving has healing and health...[ read more ]
Having and recalling vivid dreams is both a blessing and a curse. The brain’s most uninhibited creativity takes place during sleep, which can lead to wild inspiration and motivation. On the other hand, the brain is complicated and processes experiences in the waking world during sleep. Processing negative emotions and experiences can cause dreams to take a dark turn into...[ read more ]
