Marta Muntean, LCSW - Therapist

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United States
Anchorage, AK
Marta Muntean, LCSW - Therapist

Licensed therapist | Specializing in trauma, grief, dissociation | Anchorage + Telehealth (AK only)
martamunteanlcsw.com

03/02/2026

Dissociation is a protective response of the nervous system. When experiences feel overwhelming, the mind and body may reduce awareness as a way of coping. This can look like numbness, disconnection, losing track of time, or feeling distant from yourself or your surroundings. These responses are not failures. They are adaptations that once helped someone survive. Healing often involves gently increasing awareness while prioritizing safety and pacing.

02/23/2026

"Humor was another of the soul’s weapons in the fight for self-preservation.” - Viktor Frankl

02/16/2026

Coping skill tip:
When you feel overwhelmed, try slowing your exhale. Inhale through your nose, then exhale slowly through your mouth, letting the exhale be a little longer than the inhale. Repeat a few times.

02/09/2026

“Trauma is not what happened to you, but what happens inside you as a result.” - Janina Fisher

02/02/2026

Awareness is foundational to behavior change. As awareness grows, more options become available.

Without awareness, we often move on autopilot. We react, shut down, push through, or avoid without fully noticing what is happening internally. Awareness allows us to pause long enough to notice patterns, body cues, emotions, or thoughts, and that pause creates space for choice.

Change does not usually start with doing something differently. It often starts with noticing.

01/26/2026

During periods of stress or loss, people often notice increased fatigue, difficulty concentrating, or emotional numbing. These responses reflect a nervous system under strain, not a lack of coping.
Rather than pushing through, it can be helpful to ask: What does my system need right now?

01/19/2026

The new year is already well underway. Wishing steadiness, support, and moments of ease as we settle into what this year holds.

12/27/2025

December holds many layers: memories, expectations, grief, hope, family dynamics, sensory load, and the pressure to “finish strong.”
If you feel stretched thin, you’re not alone.

Your body may be responding to:
• reduced light
• increased demands
• disrupted routines
• social expectations

This season can place heavier demands on the nervous system.
Noticing this is the first step in responding with care.

12/22/2025

The winter solstice marks the slow return of light in Alaska — a shift that’s subtle at first, almost unnoticeable day to day. But that’s how most nervous-system changes happen too.

This time of year can feel heavier: less light, more demands, and routines that get disrupted. If you’re moving slower or feeling more stretched, that’s a normal response to an environment that asks a lot from your system.

The solstice is a reminder that small increases accumulate. A few extra minutes of daylight. A little more steadiness. A moment of clarity or energy you didn’t feel last week.

Building capacity works the same way.
Healthy coping skills aren’t one-time tools — they’re practices. They take repetition, gentleness, and time for the nervous system to integrate.

If your progress feels slow, it doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong.
Small shifts often lead to the most meaningful change, especially in seasons like this.

12/17/2025

The holidays often bring loss closer to the surface — whether it’s recent or many years old. Certain moments and traditions can make the absence of someone we love feel especially present.

This video offers a thoughtful perspective on why grief can feel sharper this time of year and how we might meet it with care rather than pressure.
✨ https://youtu.be/BQAE7BVMp6U?si=PYsJKO7iYWXiNpHJ

If you’re grieving this season, I’m sending warmth and compassion.

12/12/2025

December can create a lot of pressure to feel joyful. But real joy isn’t something you force.
It’s something you notice.

Mindfulness is one of the ways we create the ability to notice.
When you pause long enough to actually feel your breath, ground your feet, or pay attention to a moment that feels supportive, joy has room to show up — even quietly.

You don’t have to chase joy this season.
Just practice being aware enough to see it when it naturally appears.

12/07/2025

Feeling frazzled? The Mayo Clinic shares 3 quick tips to reduce holiday stress 🎁😫: http://bit.ly/3TipsHolidayStress

Address

Northern Lights Boulevard, Anchorage 99503
Anchorage, AK
99503

Website

http://www.martamunteanlcsw.com/

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