Recovery: Relapse Prevention Plan

Home » Blog » Recovery: Relapse Prevention Plan

Recovery: Relapse Prevention Plan

November 26, 2024 | Lysa Kirby, LCPC | 5 min. read

Recovery: Relapse Prevention Plan

When an individual relapses, it can be disheartening and a huge setback within their recovery  journey. Therefore, having a relapse prevention plan is a vital component within long-term recovery.  Understanding how to prevent a relapse and identifying the warning signs of relapse are key elements  to sustain sobriety. Recovery requires commitment and support to be successful. 

Relapses are not simply engaging in your substance of choice. Relapses occur in three stages. The  first stage is an emotional relapse. During this stage, the individual may not be actively using again.  This stage entails emotional dysregulation and an overall lack of self-care. The next stage is a  mental relapse. This stages includes the individual considering the use of illegal substances. The  person may begin to daydream and envision their last ‘high’ The last stage is a physical relapse. It is during this stage that the individual engages in the substance(s) of choice.

Reasons a Relapse Occurs

Emotional triggers: a person is overwhelmed by emotion; anger, sadness and/or trauma resurfaced and would like to numb the emotional pain. 

Overconfidence: the individual has been within sobriety for a while and believes he/she can partake in substance use without forming an addiction.

Withdrawal: an individual wants to remove the uncomfortable physical symptoms related to withdrawal.

Key Elements of Relapse Prevention Plan

Identify Triggers: know what typically leads to substance use i.e. emotions, particular people,  surroundings. 

Develop Coping Strategies: ensure that you have coping tools that help to navigate symptoms of  emotional distress. 

Monitor Mental Health: be aware of your emotions specifically if you already have a mental health  diagnosis; medication compliance and regular appointments with a therapist is key. 

Structure: having a routine and productive activities decreases the likelihood of boredom and  subsequently the chance of poor decision-making. 

Professional Help: seek professional help to aid in your recovery efforts,s – mental health counselor, an  AA or NA sponsor, recovery meetings are all value assets to recovery.

Relapse prevention is a process that requires an individual to be self-aware and committed to recovery. Should a relapse happen, it is important to know that it is not the end of their journey. It is  a chance to regroup, gather new recovery tools, a support system and a detailed relapse prevention plan to then rejoin the road to recovery. 

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Supporting Children with Behavioral Issues Through Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)

Home » Blog » Supporting Children with Behavioral Issues Through Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)

Supporting Children with Behavioral Issues Through Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)

December 24, 2024 | 10 min. read

Parent-Child Interaction Therapy

Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) for children is an evidence-based, highly effective approach that helps improve communication between parents and their children, addresses behavioral issues, and strengthens familial bonds. The treatment involves both parents and children actively participating, with a focus on fostering positive behavior and emotional regulation. As one of the key therapies offered at Orchard Mental Health, PCIT is especially suitable for families with young children experiencing disruptive behaviors, and its benefits are well-documented through rigorous research.

What is Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)?

PCIT is a specialized therapeutic intervention that combines aspects of play therapy and behavioral techniques to support children struggling with behavioral issues. Developed for children aged 2-7, PCIT is aimed at improving the quality of the parent-child relationship and equipping parents with effective strategies to manage their child’s challenging behavior. By engaging in structured play sessions, parents learn positive interaction skills under the supervision of a trained therapist, who provides real-time feedback through an earpiece.

The therapy is conducted in two phases: the Child-Directed Interaction (CDI) and the Parent-Directed Interaction (PDI). In CDI, parents focus on enhancing the child’s self-esteem and reducing negative behavior by following the child’s lead in play. During PDI, parents learn how to set effective limits, discipline in a consistent manner, and improve compliance.

The Effectiveness of PCIT in Addressing Behavioral Issues

Research has shown that Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) for children significantly reduces disruptive behaviors while fostering emotional regulation and improving the overall parent-child relationship. A recent meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) found that PCIT led to large effects on child externalizing behaviors, with a standardized mean difference (SMD) of -0.87 between PCIT groups (n=647) and comparison groups (n=497). These outcomes were consistent across both parent reports and independent observations, providing strong evidence of PCIT’s efficacy.

Another 2024 randomized trial involving 204 families revealed that PCIT significantly improved inhibitory control and emotion regulation in parents, leading to better outcomes for children. The study showed small-to-medium effects for increased positive parenting behaviors and reduced negative parenting responses, ultimately decreasing the child’s aggressive or non-compliant behaviors. This type of evidence reinforces the effectiveness of PCIT in addressing behavioral issues in children and creating long-term positive changes in families.

How PCIT Works: A Two-Phase Approach

Parent-Child Interaction Therapy consists of two main phases: Child-Directed Interaction (CDI) and Parent-Directed Interaction (PDI). Each of these phases is designed to target different aspects of the parent-child dynamic and contributes to the overall success of the therapy.

Child-Directed Interaction (CDI)

In CDI, the focus is on strengthening the emotional bond between the parent and child. Parents are taught to follow their child’s lead during playtime and are encouraged to use specific skills known as PRIDE skills—Praise, Reflection, Imitation, Description, and Enthusiasm. By emphasizing positive reinforcement, parents learn how to build a supportive and nurturing environment where their child feels understood and valued.

The aim of CDI is to establish a strong foundation of trust and communication, which makes it easier to address behavioral challenges during the PDI phase. Research has shown that when parents focus on positive interactions, children demonstrate reduced anxiety, improved compliance, and better self-regulation.

Parent-Directed Interaction (PDI)

PDI is the second phase of PCIT, and it focuses on teaching parents effective discipline and limit-setting strategies. During this phase, parents learn how to give clear instructions, use consistent consequences, and provide appropriate follow-through. The therapist coaches parents in real-time through an earpiece, allowing them to address challenging situations as they arise.

By equipping parents with the tools they need to manage challenging behaviors consistently and effectively, PDI helps create a predictable environment for children. This predictability, in turn, helps reduce anxiety and defiance in children, leading to a more harmonious household.

Who Can Benefit from PCIT?

PCIT is particularly effective for children between the ages of 2 and 7 who exhibit behavioral problems, including defiance, aggression, temper tantrums, and difficulty following instructions. The therapy is designed to help both the child and the parent, making it ideal for families dealing with stress or conflict due to their child’s behavioral issues.

PCIT is also beneficial for children who struggle with anxiety or have difficulty managing their emotions. The structured format of PCIT provides children with a clear understanding of boundaries, while simultaneously offering parents the skills they need to reinforce positive behaviors and help their child navigate challenging emotions.

Latest Developments in PCIT Implementation

The adaptability of Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) for children has allowed it to be successfully implemented in a variety of settings, including homes, clinics, and even via telehealth. Recent research on an 18-week PCIT model showed effective reduction in both externalizing and internalizing behaviors in children, while also improving caregiver parenting skills. This standardized timeline has been particularly successful for diverse and minoritized families, showing improved treatment completion rates and positive outcomes.

Another notable development is the use of PCIT in justice-involved families. A webinar by the National District Attorneys Association highlighted PCIT’s effectiveness in reducing youth victimization and maintaining family unity. This approach has helped prevent system involvement and fostered positive behavioral changes in families who are at risk of further involvement in the justice system.

These innovative implementations demonstrate that PCIT is a versatile and powerful intervention for addressing a wide range of behavioral challenges, and its effectiveness continues to be supported by research and practical applications.

What to Expect During PCIT Sessions

Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) for children typically requires 12 to 20 sessions, though the duration can vary depending on the family’s progress. The therapy is not time-limited, and success is determined by the parent’s mastery of specific skills and the child’s behavior reaching normal limits as assessed through standardized behavior rating scales. Treatment completion rates are highest when families attend sessions consistently and complete assigned home practice exercises.

During each session, parents and children participate in structured activities designed to reinforce the skills they are learning. The therapist observes the interactions from behind a one-way mirror or via a video call, providing guidance to the parent through an earpiece. This real-time feedback helps parents practice skills in the moment and ensures they are effectively implementing the strategies taught during therapy.

The therapy emphasizes consistency, both in attending sessions and in applying the skills learned outside of therapy. Parents are encouraged to practice at home for at least five minutes a day, using the techniques they learn during sessions. This daily practice is crucial for reinforcing the new behaviors and ensuring lasting change.

Benefits of PCIT for Children and Parents

Improved Child Behavior

One of the most well-documented benefits of Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) for children is its impact on reducing disruptive behavior. By focusing on positive reinforcement, clear communication, and consistent discipline, PCIT helps children develop better emotional regulation and reduces problematic behaviors such as aggression and defiance.

According to recent research, children who complete PCIT show significant improvements in both internalizing and externalizing behaviors. They are better able to manage their emotions, respond positively to parental directives, and exhibit fewer behavioral problems overall. These improvements not only benefit the child at home but also lead to better social interactions and academic performance.

Enhanced Parent-Child Relationship

PCIT is not only about managing child behavior but also about strengthening the emotional bond between parent and child. Through the use of CDI, parents learn to engage with their child in a way that fosters trust, understanding, and emotional closeness. This strengthened bond can lead to lasting improvements in the parent-child relationship, creating a more supportive environment in which the child feels secure and valued.

Parents often report feeling more confident in their ability to manage their child’s behavior, as well as an increase in positive interactions with their child. These positive changes help reduce parental stress, improve family dynamics, and foster a nurturing environment where both the parent and child can thrive.

Increased Parental Confidence and Skill

A key component of PCIT is the emphasis on parental skill-building. Parents are taught specific techniques for managing their child’s behavior, including how to give effective instructions, set limits, and use consistent consequences. Through regular practice and therapist feedback, parents become more adept at handling challenging behaviors and creating a positive home environment.

Parents who complete PCIT often report feeling more confident in their parenting abilities. They feel better equipped to handle difficult situations and more capable of supporting their child’s emotional and behavioral needs. This increase in parental confidence can lead to a more harmonious home environment and better outcomes for the entire family.

PCIT and Teletherapy: Expanding Access to Care

In recent years, telehealth has become an increasingly popular method of delivering Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) for children. Teletherapy offers families the opportunity to participate in PCIT from the comfort of their own homes, making it more accessible for those who may face barriers to in-person treatment, such as transportation issues or geographic distance.

Telehealth sessions are conducted in much the same way as in-person sessions, with parents receiving real-time coaching through an earpiece while interacting with their child. Studies have shown that telehealth PCIT is just as effective as in-person PCIT, with families reporting high levels of satisfaction and positive outcomes. The flexibility of teletherapy also allows more families to access the support they need, regardless of their location.

At Orchard Mental Health, we are proud to offer telehealth PCIT services to families across Maryland. Our experienced therapists are trained to provide high-quality, evidence-based care through virtual sessions, ensuring that families receive the same level of support and guidance as they would in person.

Take the First Step Toward Positive Change

Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) for children is a powerful tool for improving child behavior, enhancing the parent-child relationship, and building parental confidence. At Orchard Mental Health, we are committed to providing personalized, evidence-based care that supports your family’s unique needs. Whether you are dealing with challenging behaviors, looking to improve your relationship with your child, or seeking support for emotional regulation, PCIT can help.

If you are interested in learning more about PCIT and how it can benefit your family, we encourage you to visit our Child Psychotherapy page or schedule a free consultation with one of our licensed therapists. Together, we can create a plan that supports your goals and helps your child thrive.

At Orchard Mental Health, we are here to support you every step of the way on your journey toward positive change.

Citations

  • DovePress, 2024: Evidence-based treatment in practice: PCIT research on addressing individual child behaviors. (DovePress, 2024).
  • NIH, 2024: Parent-Child Interaction Therapy outcomes in randomized trials. (NIH, 2024).
  • Frontiers in Psychology, 2023: PCIT effectiveness for diverse families in an 18-week model. (Frontiers in Psychology, 2023).
  • OJJDP, 2024: PCIT’s role in preventing justice involvement in families. (OJJDP, 2024).
  • PCIT, 2024: What is PCIT? (PCIT, 2024).

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Child Play Therapy For Trauma: How Play Therapy Helps

Home » Blog » Child Play Therapy For Trauma: How Play Therapy Helps

Child Play Therapy For Trauma: How Play Therapy Helps

November 15, 2024 | 8 min. read

Child play therapy for trauma

At Orchard Mental Health, we recognize that child play therapy for trauma offers essential support for young ones who have endured distressing or traumatic experiences. Trauma can impact children in profound ways, affecting their behavior, emotions, and long-term development. Research highlights that play therapy provides a unique, child-centered approach to healing, enabling children to process complex emotions through play, often their most natural mode of expression. With approximately one million children in the U.S. experiencing abuse each year, the role of early intervention through play therapy becomes even more critical in helping them build resilience and achieve positive mental health outcomes (JPCP Article).

Understanding Trauma in Children

Childhood trauma can stem from various experiences, including abuse, family separation, violence, or witnessing traumatic events. Early exposure to trauma can result in symptoms like anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, and even PTSD in some cases. Unlike adults, children often lack the language and cognitive skills to verbalize their experiences and emotions. Play therapy offers an outlet that respects their developmental stage and unique needs, allowing them to express difficult emotions nonverbally and process their experiences on their terms. Studies suggest that without support, trauma can affect children’s school performance, relationships, and overall mental health into adulthood.

How Child Play Therapy for Trauma Works

Play therapy provides a structured, therapeutic environment where children can engage with toys, games, and creative outlets like drawing or role-playing. This form of therapy allows them to symbolically explore their feelings, enact situations that mirror their own experiences, and, ultimately, work toward understanding and healing. By using toys to represent people or events, children can reenact scenarios related to their trauma, giving therapists insight into their inner lives and coping mechanisms (A4PT Resource).

The Language of Play

Symbolic play, a core component of play therapy, serves as a “language” for children. This type of play enables them to enact feelings and scenarios that may be too complex or painful to verbalize. For example, a child who has witnessed family violence may use dolls or action figures to role-play scenarios of conflict and resolution. Through this process, therapists can observe and understand the child’s emotional responses and fears, guiding them toward healthier ways to process emotions.

Building a Safe Space Through Trust

For children dealing with trauma, safety is paramount. Play therapy prioritizes creating a secure and empathetic environment where children feel supported and encouraged to explore their feelings. Therapists work to build trust with each child, reinforcing the idea that they are safe, understood, and free to express themselves without judgment. This foundation is crucial for trauma recovery, as it provides children with the stability they may lack in other parts of their lives. In addition, studies suggest that a strong therapeutic alliance significantly improves treatment outcomes for young trauma survivors, supporting them in feeling safe enough to address painful emotions and memories (PMC Article).

Key Benefits of Child Play Therapy for Trauma Recovery

1. Facilitating Emotional Expression and Processing

One of the primary advantages of child play therapy for trauma is its ability to facilitate emotional expression. Trauma can leave children with complex feelings like guilt, anger, sadness, and confusion. Many children may not feel comfortable sharing these feelings verbally, especially if they associate their trauma with adults who were supposed to protect them. Play therapy offers a safe space where children can express these emotions indirectly. Studies show that children who participate in play therapy are often better able to regulate their emotions, resulting in decreased aggression, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT), for instance, has shown significant effectiveness in managing trauma-related behaviors, encouraging healthy emotional development (CEBC Program Details).

2. Improving Social and Behavioral Skills

Children who engage in child play therapy for trauma often experience improvements in their social interactions and overall behavior. By allowing children to “practice” coping and communication skills within the play therapy environment, therapists can help them transfer these skills into real-world situations, such as school or family interactions. For children who may have developed maladaptive behaviors as coping mechanisms, play therapy can gradually shift these patterns, fostering healthier ways of interacting with peers and authority figures. As a result, children often display better behavior in school, improved familial relationships, and a more positive outlook on social interactions (Good Therapy).

3. Enhancing Parent-Child Relationships

Parental involvement is another crucial component of child play therapy for trauma. By guiding parents to support their child’s therapeutic journey, therapists can reinforce coping mechanisms and improve the child’s resilience in daily life. Some play therapy approaches include parent-child sessions where therapists model healthy communication techniques and suggest practices parents can use at home. Studies indicate that children who receive parental support in therapy tend to progress faster and show sustained improvements in their emotional regulation and social skills (CEBC Program Details).

Structured Approaches in Play Therapy

Child play therapy for trauma can vary in structure and intensity based on each child’s unique needs. Standard treatment may involve weekly one-hour sessions over six to nine months, allowing the child time to process emotions slowly. 

Evidence-Based Success of Play Therapy in Trauma Recovery

Over the past few decades, research has consistently demonstrated the success of child play therapy for trauma in helping children heal from adverse experiences. Studies have found that children who participate in play therapy experience improvements in self-confidence, emotional expression, and trauma symptom reduction. These results are particularly significant for children aged 2-12, where play therapy is often the most developmentally appropriate approach to trauma treatment. Beyond measurable improvements, play therapy is also recognized by mental health organizations like the Association for Play Therapy as a proven, evidence-based practice (A4PT Resource).

The Role of Play Therapy in Long-Term Trauma Recovery

The benefits of play therapy often extend beyond the therapy room, supporting children in developing long-term coping strategies that they can carry into adolescence and adulthood. By learning how to process and express emotions in healthy ways, children are less likely to develop maladaptive coping mechanisms later in life. Moreover, the skills and resilience fostered during play therapy sessions help children better handle stress and adversity, potentially lowering the risk of mental health issues as they grow older.

For children affected by trauma, play therapy offers not only immediate relief but also the foundation for a healthier future. Studies have shown that adults who received early trauma interventions like play therapy are better equipped to manage stress and relationships, suggesting that the impacts of play therapy can indeed last a lifetime. These long-term benefits underscore the importance of accessing quality trauma-informed play therapy as soon as possible to support children’s holistic development and future mental health.

Conclusion: Supporting Children’s Healing Journey with Orchard Mental Health

At Orchard Mental Health, we are dedicated to helping children find their path to healing through child play therapy for trauma. Our licensed therapists specialize in child-centered, trauma-informed approaches, providing a safe space for children to explore their emotions and recover from difficult experiences. By creating a nurturing environment and utilizing therapeutic techniques that meet children at their developmental level, we empower them to express, process, and ultimately heal from their trauma.

To learn more about our Child Psychotherapy services, including play therapy, please request a consultation with our team. We are committed to guiding your child toward resilience, emotional health, and a brighter future. Let us support your child’s journey toward healing and help them rediscover safety, confidence, and joy.

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Adult Depression CBT Therapy: Supporting Adults in Managing Depression

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Adult Depression CBT Therapy: Supporting Adults in Managing Depression

November 8, 2024 | 7 min. read

Adult depression CBT therapy

Adult depression CBT therapy is widely recognized as an effective approach to addressing the symptoms of depression in adults. With a structured and goal-oriented framework, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) empowers individuals to change their thought patterns and behaviors, ultimately breaking the cycle of negative thinking that sustains depression. Unlike psychodynamic therapies that explore past traumas, CBT for adult depression emphasizes the present, helping clients gain immediate, actionable skills to address their symptoms. Psychology Today highlights that CBT’s structured approach is beneficial for both short-term symptom relief and long-term management, making it particularly valuable for adults with recurrent depression.

The Science Behind CBT’s Effectiveness

At its core, adult depression CBT therapy is based on the principle that thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected. Negative thought patterns often contribute to self-doubt, low mood, and withdrawal from meaningful activities, creating a cycle that sustains depression. CBT aims to break this cycle by encouraging individuals to recognize, challenge, and reframe these thought patterns. Research published in the World Psychiatry Journal has shown that CBT is effective in treating depression by addressing both cognitive distortions and behavioral tendencies that reinforce depressive symptoms.

Studies support CBT’s efficacy in reducing depressive symptoms across various populations. According to a meta-analysis published by Psychology Today, adult depression CBT therapy not only helps reduce symptoms but also equips individuals with long-lasting skills to manage future episodes, further underscoring its value in mental health treatment.

CBT’s Approach to Tackling Core Beliefs and Negative Thinking

A fundamental aspect of adult depression CBT therapy is addressing core beliefs—deeply held assumptions about oneself and the world. For individuals with depression, these beliefs often include thoughts like “I am unworthy” or “Nothing will ever improve.” Over time, such thoughts become automatic and reinforce feelings of hopelessness. CBT helps clients identify these beliefs, question their validity, and replace them with healthier alternatives. This process, known as cognitive restructuring, is critical in altering deeply rooted negative thinking patterns and fostering a more positive outlook.

The Role of Behavioral Activation in Overcoming Depression

Behavioral activation is another key component of adult depression CBT therapy. Depression often leads individuals to avoid enjoyable activities, which worsens feelings of sadness and isolation. Behavioral activation encourages clients to re-engage in activities they once enjoyed, even if they lack motivation. By reintroducing positive experiences, behavioral activation helps to counteract the withdrawal and passivity that can maintain depression. Research published in The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry highlights the effectiveness of behavioral activation in lifting mood and restoring a sense of purpose.

This approach aligns with the principles of positive reinforcement, where engaging in enjoyable activities creates opportunities for joy and accomplishment. Through behavioral activation, individuals can experience a boost in mood that interrupts depressive tendencies, creating a sustainable path to improved mental health.

Key Techniques in Adult Depression CBT Therapy

Cognitive Restructuring

Cognitive restructuring is central to CBT for adult depression, helping individuals recognize and change irrational or harmful thoughts. Depression often distorts reality, leading individuals to view themselves and the world through a negative lens. By identifying automatic thoughts and challenging their accuracy, clients learn to replace these thoughts with balanced, constructive alternatives. For instance, a person may shift from “I’m a failure” to “I am capable of growth and learning.” This mental shift not only reduces emotional distress but also builds resilience and self-confidence. You can read more about this technique on Psychology Today.

Exposure Therapy

For individuals with depression complicated by anxiety, exposure therapy can be a highly effective part of adult depression CBT therapy. Exposure therapy, which is often used within CBT, gradually exposes individuals to situations they fear or avoid, allowing them to confront and reduce their anxiety. This approach is beneficial for those struggling with social withdrawal or avoidance behaviors, as it encourages them to face situations that trigger negative emotions. According to the American Psychological Association, exposure therapy in conjunction with CBT can lead to significant improvements for individuals with both depression and anxiety.

Mindfulness-Based Techniques

Mindfulness-based CBT for adult depression has gained traction as a holistic approach to managing depressive symptoms. This form of CBT incorporates mindfulness exercises, such as meditation and deep breathing, which help individuals remain grounded in the present moment. Mindfulness reduces rumination, a common issue in depression, and empowers individuals to observe their thoughts without judgment. A study published in Positive Psychology found that mindfulness-based CBT leads to significant improvements in emotional regulation, particularly among those with recurring depression.

Long-Term Benefits of Adult Depression CBT Therapy

CBT for adult depression is not only effective in the short term but also provides lasting benefits. By addressing core beliefs and instilling skills for self-management, CBT enables individuals to prevent future depressive episodes. Studies show that those who complete CBT are less likely to relapse than those who rely solely on medication, making it a valuable investment in long-term mental health. A meta-analysis in the Clinical Psychology Review supports this finding, demonstrating that CBT’s benefits extend beyond therapy, helping individuals maintain progress and avoid relapse.

Unlike medication, which primarily addresses symptoms, adult depression CBT therapy equips clients with tools to manage their depression independently. This focus on skill-building makes CBT a sustainable and empowering treatment option, as clients can apply these skills to future challenges.

Getting Started with Orchard Mental Health’s Adult Depression CBT Therapy Program

At Orchard Mental Health, we recognize that each individual’s journey with depression is unique. Our licensed therapists provide personalized CBT treatment for adults, designed to help clients gain control over their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. With convenient locations in Maryland and the option for virtual therapy, we make high-quality mental health care accessible to all. Our team is committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs.

Contact Us

If you or a loved one is struggling with depression, adult depression CBT therapy at Orchard Mental Health may be the solution. Learn more about our Adult Psychotherapy Services or request an appointment today. For immediate support, please call us at 240-363-4357. At Orchard, we are here to support you on your path to wellness.

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Holiday Blues: Ways to Survive the Holidays if You Are Single

The holiday season can bring on mixed feelings of sadness, loss, and loneliness.

The following skills below are helpful in coping with the stress of the holidays if you find yourself navigating this season alone (University of Rochester, n.d.).

  • Practice mindfulness – this will help slow down preoccupations, and promote mental wellness.
  • Take a break- it’s okay to say no, and give yourself time and space to process.
  • Spend time outside -Getting some air and sunlight can boost mood, and improve breathing.
  • Reach out to others – Reach out to friends or family, or make new friends.
  • Volunteer- helping others can improve mood and well-being.
  • Limit alcohol- Alcohol is a depressant, and can increase symptoms of depression.
  • Create/ stick to your routine – Try to incorporate enough rest/ sleep daily.
  • Be kind to yourself.
  • Talk to your doctor, or call the crisis hotline (988) if you have any severe concerns about the state of your mental- health

References

University of Rochester Medical Center. (n.d.). Help for the holiday blues https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=1&contentid=2094

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November 22, 2024 | 5 min. read

ACT Adult Mental Health

ACT adult mental health therapy, an evidence-based approach used at Orchard Mental Health, empowers individuals to face difficult emotions rather than avoid them, which fosters resilience and life satisfaction. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps clients across Maryland achieve mental well-being by using values-driven, mindfulness-based techniques that support growth and resilience. Our adult mental health services integrate ACT to manage conditions like depression, anxiety, and trauma, encouraging people to live according to their values while addressing psychological pain.

Understanding Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

ACT adult mental health therapy is rooted in principles that guide individuals to accept, rather than resist, difficult thoughts and emotions. Rather than aiming to change thought patterns directly, ACT fosters psychological flexibility—the ability to live in alignment with values despite discomfort. This approach, which emphasizes staying engaged with life’s complexities, has been effective for diverse mental health challenges, ranging from mood disorders to chronic pain, making ACT an adaptable and powerful therapeutic tool (Psychology Today, Journal of Contextual Behavioral Science).

Six Core Processes of ACT

The core processes of ACT adult mental health therapy, which collectively create a framework for growth, are:

  • Cognitive Defusion: ACT teaches clients to detach from thoughts by observing them as mental events rather than truths, reducing their power and emotional charge (Psychology Today).
  • Acceptance: By encouraging clients to accept negative emotions without judgment, ACT fosters resilience. Research shows that acceptance can reduce anxiety symptoms and improve mental health (American Psychological Association).
  • Values Identification: By identifying personal values, ACT aligns therapy with individual goals, supporting a meaningful, engaged life (PsychCentral).
  • Mindfulness: ACT’s emphasis on present-focused mindfulness reduces rumination and enhances emotional stability, essential in ACT adult mental health treatment (Psychology Today).
  • Perspective-Taking: Clients learn to view thoughts from a detached perspective, fostering self-compassion and reducing self-critical thinking, especially beneficial for those experiencing depression (Good Therapy).
  • Committed Action: ACT emphasizes taking concrete steps aligned with values, promoting resilience and long-term change (Psychology Tools).

The integration of these processes in ACT adult mental health therapy creates a comprehensive framework, helping individuals achieve growth while navigating life’s complexities. Research validates that this holistic approach improves resilience, decreases mental health symptoms, and fosters overall personal development (PsychCentral).

Impact of ACT on Adult Mental Health

ACT adult mental health interventions are especially beneficial for managing depression, anxiety, trauma, and chronic conditions. Research has shown that ACT’s approach of accepting thoughts and emotions without judgment allows individuals to cope more effectively, thus reducing these conditions’ impact on daily life. Unlike cognitive-behavioral therapies, ACT focuses on reimagining relationships with thoughts and feelings, resulting in a healthier mindset (Psychology Today, PsychCentral).

One significant study showed a 60% improvement rate in adults with severe anxiety undergoing ACT, with clients reporting reduced stress and a greater sense of purpose. This success in ACT adult mental health treatments is attributed to the therapy’s focus on aligning actions with values while managing difficult emotions, a powerful combination for those facing mental health challenges (American Psychological Association).

Research and Evidence Supporting ACT

Over 1,000 randomized controlled trials affirm the effectiveness of ACT adult mental health therapy, showing improved mental health outcomes and enhanced life quality. Studies demonstrate that ACT reduces avoidance behaviors—key factors in anxiety and depression—by helping individuals confront their experiences rather than evading them. This approach empowers clients to live value-driven lives without being controlled by psychological distress (Journal of Contextual Behavioral Science).

Additionally, ACT’s flexibility allows it to be tailored to various cultural contexts. In low- and middle-income countries, ACT focuses on enhancing quality of life and aligning therapy with local values, underscoring its relevance across different societies (Psychology Today).

Choosing Orchard Mental Health for ACT Adult Mental Health Services

Orchard Mental Health’s experienced professionals provide ACT adult mental health therapy within a supportive, values-driven framework tailored to each client’s unique needs. By combining ACT’s techniques with our evidence-based approach, we help clients take meaningful steps toward achieving a life aligned with their values, offering an environment of growth and self-acceptance. Orchard’s locations in Rockville and Frederick, Maryland, make high-quality mental health care accessible to the community. Learn more about our adult psychotherapy services here.

Take the First Step Toward Improved Mental Health

Are you ready to explore the transformative potential of ACT adult mental health therapy? Schedule a consultation with Orchard Mental Health today, and take a step towards a fulfilling life grounded in your values. Our experienced therapists are here to guide you in managing difficult emotions while pursuing your mental health goals. Embrace the journey toward well-being—Orchard is here to support you.

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