Gioia Psychotherapy

07/24/2025

Very excited to share that I recently received certification in Perinatal Mental Health (PMH-C) through Postpartum Support International 😁

I'm looking forward to working to supporting individuals and families through the emotional challenges of pregnancy, postpartum, and parenthood ☀️

06/16/2025

Many of us have a first aid kit for physical health emergencies. Why not do the same for our psychological health? 🤔

Often times when we feel overwhelmed or emotionally drained, it can be hard to call to mind the skills and tools we have for coping. A coping kit is like a first-aid kit—but for your mental wellness. 🌈 It’s filled with simple, comforting items that engage your senses and help ground you in the present moment. It’s all about what soothes you 💭🎧🍬📸

What would you put in YOUR coping kit? Let me know below 👇

06/09/2025

✨ Let’s go beyond “How are you?” ✨

We often ask, “How are you?” out of habit—but sometimes it doesn’t lead to real conversation. Sometimes the question we think is showing care doesn't open the door we hope it will.

💡Here are 9 thoughtful alternatives that help spark connection, reflection, and emotional check-ins in a more meaningful way.

You can use these with your kids, your partner, your clients, or even in a journal entry. They help open the door to richer, more honest dialogue—and remind the people we love that we truly care.

📝 Try asking one of these today, and let me know what kind of response you received!

➡️ Save or share this if you found it helpful.

06/03/2025

✨Introducing: The Self Love Workbook✨

I've been working on some exciting projects in the background, and am excited to finally share my first printable PDF workbook for purchase. I've created this journal to provide a gentle space for reflection, encouragement, and growth 🌸

What's included:
👉Activities: Strengths inventory, self compassion letter
activity, and more
👉Daily prompts to reflect on self-worth & growth
👉Weekly self-esteem check-in
👉Monthly progress reflection
👉A page for notes/thoughts as you go along
👉3 mandala colouring pages

✨ How to use the workbook:
It's simple-
1. Purchase ($5)
2. Download
3. Print
**Once you purchase the workbook, you can use/print as many times as you like, print the entire workbook, or choose the pages that interest you. The download does not expire!

(PS- I am working on making a fillable digital version-- my tech skills are limited in some areas!)

You can get your copy here 🙂👇
https://buy.stripe.com/5kQ14naiZ0yp6HY4pU8bS00

06/01/2025

JUNE is...Men’s Mental Health Month 🧠

This month, we're breaking the silence, challenging stigma, and reminding every man: your mental health matters.

Let’s create space for real conversations 🗣

05/29/2025

🌸 You’re Not Alone, Mama — Let’s Heal Together 🌸

Struggling with postpartum depression or anxiety? I'm now offering an online group CBT program designed specifically for new mothers and those navigating the challenges of motherhood.

✨ What Is Offered:
- A 3-week virtual group therapy program (includes three 1-hour group sessions)
- A custom, downloadable workbook with program information as well as fillable worksheets
- A safe, supportive space to share, heal, and grow.
- Tools to reduce anxiety, combat negative thoughts, manage stress, and boost confidence!

Why sign-up? Research shows that peer-led group CBT can significantly reduce postpartum depression and anxiety symptoms, with lasting improvements in maternal well-being and infant temperament.

💡 Ready to take the first step?
Visit 👉 https://gioiapsychotherapy.com/ -cbt
to learn more and register.

If you have questions, please don't hesitate to contact me directly!

You deserve support, healing, and connection. Let’s navigate this journey together. 💕

12/07/2024

Are You Doomscrolling? Here’s Why It’s Harmful and How to Stop 📱🛑

Doomscrolling—the habit of endlessly consuming negative news—can take a serious toll on your mental health. According to a recent study highlighted by Harvard Health Publishing, here’s what you should know:

👉 Mental Health Impact: Excessive doomscrolling can lead to higher levels of stress, anxiety, and feelings of hopelessness. Constant exposure to distressing news amplifies worries about global issues and our own vulnerabilities.
👉 Cognitive Overload: Our brains aren’t designed to process an endless stream of negative information, which can leave us feeling overwhelmed and emotionally drained.

So...what's the key to breaking the cycle? 🔑
✅ Set time limits on news consumption (DIGITAL BOUNDARIES)
✅ Opt out of notifications
✅ Switch your phone to greysacale- this makes scrolling less enticing
✅ Practice mindfulness or grounding exercises after consuming heavy news
✅ Shift your focus by seeking out positive or uplifting content
Remember, staying informed is important, but your mental health matters too. Find balance by setting healthy boundaries with your screen time. 🌿



🔗 Learn more: Health

12/04/2024

DIY Breathing Sticks: A Simple Tool for Calm 🌬️✨

Breathing is one of the most effective ways to calm the mind and body, and DIY breathing sticks make it fun and interactive—perfect for kids or anyone needing a creative reminder to slow down and breathe. Follow these simple steps to make a breathing stick using materials you likely already have at home.

Materials Needed:
- Pipe cleaners (1 per stick)
- Beads (5–10 in assorted colors)

Steps:
1. Prep Your Materials: Gather a pipe cleaner and a selection of beads. Choose colorful beads to make the activity visually engaging.
2. Add the Beads: Thread the beads onto the pipe cleaner, leaving some space at each end to keep them secure. Each bead will represent one breath.
3. Secure the Ends: Bend the ends of the pipe cleaner to prevent the beads from sliding off. You can create a small loop for extra safety.
4. Use Your Stick: Slide one bead across the stick as you inhale deeply and then exhale slowly. Repeat for each bead to complete the breathing exercise.

This tool is perfect for moments of stress, overwhelm, or simply as a grounding exercise. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or just looking for a personal wellness project, breathing sticks are a small but impactful way to promote calm.

Check out the video below by Mindful Connections for a step-by-step visual guide 👇
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aZplZmwBXuM

Making a simple breathing stick tool is a great option for bringing awareness to your child's breath. With a few simple craft supplies, you can create a brea...

12/02/2024

DIY Stress Ball: Squeeze the Stress Away! 🖐️✨

Looking for a quick, fun way to manage stress? Making your own stress ball is easy, budget-friendly, and a great hands-on activity to release tension. Here’s how, based on tips from Calm:

What You’ll Need:
- Balloons 🎈
- Filler: Flour, rice, or dried beans (choose your favorite!)
- A funnel or plastic bottle (to make filling easier)

Steps:
1. Stretch It Out: Stretch the balloon to make it more flexible.
2. Add the Filler: Use a funnel (or a bottle cut in half) to fill the balloon with your chosen filler.
3. Tie It Off: Once it’s filled to your liking, tie the balloon securely.

Customize (Optional): Decorate with markers or add another balloon layer for durability.
And just like that, you’ve created your very own stress-relief tool! Squeeze it whenever you’re feeling anxious or need a quick calming boost. 🌟

08/19/2024

🌟 True Nobility 🌟

“There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self.” - Ernest Hemingway

In a society that often encourages us to compare ourselves to others, it's important to remember Hemingway's wisdom. Real growth and fulfillment come from focusing on our own progress and becoming better than we were yesterday.

🔑 Key Message

Stop Comparing: Avoid the trap of comparing your journey to others. Everyone has their own unique path.

Focus on Growth: Set personal goals and strive to improve a little each day.
Celebrate Small Wins: Recognize and celebrate your own progress, no matter how small.

🌟 True nobility is about self-improvement, not competition. Be better than you were yesterday, and you'll always be moving forward. 🌟