New Spark Counseling, PLLC

06/01/2026

Many of us want to bring good energy into our relationships and feel more connected to the people around us. The challenge is that we are not always taught how to build that kind of presence with intention. A simple seven-minute Buddhist-inspired practice can help shift the way you feel toward others and may also change the energy others feel when they are around you. Click on the link below to learn more.

What if a seven-minute practice could change how you relate to others and how others relate around you? It may just be the secret to having a "good vibe."

05/30/2026

Happy National Creativity Day! Creativity is more than art. It can be the way you solve a problem, express your feelings, decorate your space, write your thoughts, cook something new, or imagine a different way forward. Creative expression can support mental health by helping us process emotions, reduce stress, and reconnect with ourselves. You do not have to be “good” at something for it to be meaningful.

05/29/2026

Persistent Depressive Disorder, also known as dysthymia, is a long-term form of depression that can make life feel heavy, exhausting, or emotionally flat for months or even years. It may not always look like intense sadness. It can show up as low energy, low self-esteem, irritability, trouble concentrating, changes in sleep or appetite, or feeling like you are just “getting through the day.” Because it can last for so long, many people begin to think this is just their personality or normal way of feeling. But support, therapy, healthy coping skills, and sometimes medication can help.

05/28/2026

Research has shown that perfectionism has increased in recent years. Social media comparison, pressure to stand out, and the constant push for achievement can all contribute to perfectionistic thinking. Perfectionism is more than wanting to do well. It is a mindset that can increase stress, self-criticism, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Click on the link to learn more.

Striving for perfection or wan mei, 完美, is a waste of time.

05/27/2026

The “Black Sheep Effect” describes how people can sometimes be judged more harshly by members of their own group than by outsiders. At the same time, many of us still want to stay true to our own thoughts, feelings, and values. This tension between group loyalty and personal authenticity can create a painful inner conflict and may contribute to feelings of shame. Click on the link below to learn more.

Explore the ancient coalitional instincts shaping modern political and social life, as well as the psychological toll of choosing between belonging and authenticity.

05/26/2026

Narcissistic Personality Disorder is more than being confident or liking attention. It is a mental health condition that can affect self-image, relationships, empathy, and the way a person responds to criticism or conflict. Someone with NPD may struggle with a strong need for admiration, difficulty recognizing others’ feelings, sensitivity to rejection, or patterns of controlling or self-focused behavior. Understanding NPD does not mean excusing harmful actions. It means recognizing that healthy boundaries, accountability, and professional support are important for healing and healthier relationships.

05/25/2026

On Memorial Day, we pause to honor and remember the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. This day can bring feelings of gratitude, grief, pride, and reflection. For many families, it is not just a long weekend, but a meaningful reminder of sacrifice and loss. As we remember those who served, may we also hold space for the loved ones who carry their memory every day. We honor their courage, their sacrifice, and the legacy they leave behind.

05/23/2026

People with greater emotional awareness are more likely to reflect on what they are feeling and why. Those with strong emotional intelligence often consider how their actions and decisions may impact others. Learning to name emotions can help lower their intensity, making them easier to understand, process, and manage. Click on the link below to learn more.

Three ways that "overthinking" signals sophisticated internal processing.

05/22/2026

A mother’s mental load often includes the unseen work of planning, anticipating everyone’s needs, and carrying emotional responsibilities. Feelings of resentment can be a sign that needs are going unmet, support is lacking, or responsibilities feel unbalanced. ACT-based coping skills can help mothers manage overwhelm, create space for their emotions, and build more flexibility in how they respond to daily stress. Click on the link below to learn more.

Many mothers are not only physically exhausted but also mentally overloaded by the invisible work of managing family life.

05/21/2026

Borderline personality disorder is a mental health condition that can affect emotions, relationships, self-image, and the way a person responds to stress. It may include intense emotions, fear of abandonment, impulsive reactions, mood shifts, or difficulty feeling secure in relationships. People with BPD are not “too much” or “attention-seeking.” They are often experiencing emotions very deeply and may need support, understanding, and healthy coping tools to manage those feelings. With therapy, support, and the right treatment plan, people with BPD can build stronger relationships, improve emotional regulation, and experience meaningful healing. Reaching out for help is a powerful first step.