Erin Keeney LMHC ATR

04/01/2025

Therapy can seem like a place people go to complain, yap, vent, kvetch, etc, but above all, it's a place to feel seen, heard, validated, and understood. Operating out of the 508, I am here to do all of those things and sprinkle some coping skills along the way. If you want your therapist to be transparent, curious, and in possession of a prison mike sparkly pillow, I'm your girl.

05/28/2022

As we begin to try to understand another horrific tragedy in another elementary school please be mindful of how you and your loved ones process. This tragedy is considered a trauma for those who were directly and indirectly (vicarious) experienced it. If you are experiencing intrusive thoughts, heightened awareness or hypervigilance, hopelessness, nightmares, change in diet or sleep habits these are examples of trauma symptoms. These are not all the trauma symptoms in existence but just a handful to consider being mindful of in the coming weeks. Reach out if you feel like it is becoming too much to handle alone please reach out either to your local crisis number or national line 1-800-273-8255

11/19/2021

As we approach the week of Thanksgiving please be mindful with comments surrounding eating, what's on plates, and caloric information. Just because someone is not "looking" like they have an eating disorder doesn't mean it isn't an issue or they are not suffering. Please keep your eyes on the page for information and tips on how to support others around this both fun and sometimes triggering/stressful holiday.

08/16/2021

It's a week late on here but I earned my ATR (registered art therapist) credentials! Board certification is next but for now am trying to live in the present and be happy with my very new accomplishment. My friends and family knew I wanted this since I was 17 or 18 in high school so this is a long time coming.
As my mum and dad always said, "It doesn't matter how long it takes just that you do it to the best of your ability."

If you are interested in art therapy services please ask for me at Attention, Behavior and Cognition at (774) 415-0003

07/15/2021

As we enter into the middle of summer, a large number of people go on vacation...kind of. Some people have a hard time finding the "off button" regarding work and can still be taking work calls, answering emails, or otherwise not being mindful of being with family, friends, or by themselves to recharge.
Setting boundaries in a variety of categories (personal space, time, sexuality, emotions, even our possessions!) can lead to increased or better self esteem and improved relationships.
Keep your eyes on the page to learn more about how boundaries can mean better relationships with others and yourself!

If you feel you're struggling with anxiety around setting boundaries please give a call to (774) 415 003 to learn how we can work together to change that.

07/15/2021

06/10/2021

Happy Pride Month!

04/10/2021

It's been a week or so since the first date or maybe you've been on a few dates but they keep re engaging at random (and long intervals) or they completely disappeared. What gives?
Well, we have by now heard of ghosting, disappearing altogether from relationships with people but have you heard of benching?
This is a practice where people will keep you "on the bench" until they want you or nothing better comes along. Ouch.
Conversely, maybe they have been texting, calling, etc and want to see you again. They may ask specifically. "When can I see you again?" Is a common end question to a date but most likely they will press for specific date and time in order to "hold you to the promise" or make sure their other options dont interfere with the plan.

Has anyone ever treated you like an option before? How did it feel?
What are some ways you can practice putting yourself first in new (or seasoned) relationships?

via .app

04/10/2021

Gaslighting: the first date

You met someone and set up a first date. You two are hitting it off and this person starts displaying some major league signs of affection. They send multiple bouquets to your office, they text you incessantly and say things like, "I love everything about you" and is trying convince you the pair of you are soulmates. Oh and they called to let you know they booked nonrefundable tickets to sandals Jamaica for a holiday you were going to spend with your family (yes I took that from the Office, sue me)
This is love bombing. It's a manipulation tactic a person uses to have the other feel indebted to the manipulator.
How to figure out if it's toxic? Try instilling boundaries. If they protest or just flat out ignore them that is a big red flag. If they cant respect your request and need for space it's not a good sign.

Have you ever felt taken aback by a partner's declaration or display of affection?
Have you or anyone you know have experience in a toxic relationship?

If you suspect your relationship or a loved one's is toxic consider visiting
https://www.loveisrespect.org/
And learn about relationships and signs of toxicity or abuse

health

04/10/2021

GASLIGHTING
At its best its cruel and at it's worst it's abusive. This week I'll break down different aspects of gaslighting from the first date, the red flags, and finally leaving.
For today though let's discuss how gaslighting got its name.
In 1944, Gaslight, starring Ingrid Bergman and Charles Boyer told the story of a man who tries to make his wife believe she is going mad. One of his tactics include dimming the gaslights in their home and convincing her they are actually quite bright. I wont spoil the rest but please watch it. I dont believe a film has improved on demonstrating gaslighting as well as this one.
I hope the next few days can shed some light on an abusive practice that over 43 million women and 38 million men experience each year but seldom realize it.

Had anyone ever invalidated your reality or emotions? What did (or didn't) you do?
When have you second guessed yourself if ever?

03/22/2021

Today is all about toxic positivity! At your request today is devoted to unmasking what it is and how to assess whether its hopeful speech vs. hurtful speech.
Toxic positivity is at it's best "gaslighting lite". Most people who are on the receiving end of it don't even realize it's gaslighting. It's so insidious! By telling people to be positive in the face of everything is invalidating and minimizing.
How many times have you seen or heard the phrase "no excuses" regarding fitness or working out. How about, "hustle harder"? Now, these are not meant to be toxic, they can be motivating if we know what to take from them. Reading them as "no excuses: try to make time to take care of yourself the best way you can" or "hustle harder: try one more rep/set and see how you feel " operative words in both are T R Y.
Instead of toxic positivity try considering a gratitude lifestyle. You acknowledge the crappy feelings you're feeling and feel them. You also acknowledge the good feelings and be mindful when you're thankful and make a point to thank people and even things. Yes. Things. For example, I paused and was grateful for my cold coffee maker to avoid having to go to dunks. It was no more than 3 seconds but being present made my morning a bit lighter.

How has toxic positivity affected you?
How have you tried to be more grateful if at all especially in the time of COVID?
Have you had to stop communicating with someone or working at a place/for a company because of toxic positivity?

03/21/2021

Self care Saturday! Let's talk hygiene. One of the easiest things for people to let go of or put off can be ADLs (activities of daily living) such as hygiene. I'm not talking a spa day or a major make up application. I mean a shower, brushing teeth, combing hair, washing your face or wearing antiperspirant/deodorant.
The good news is, we live in an age where products exist that can make this easier. Dry shampoo, face wipes, water wipes, travel toothbrushes and hair accessories can help us when we just need to make it through the day before we can devote time to our hygiene thoroughly.
I've posted pics in my insta story (erin.keeney.lmhc) if you're interested too.

If you struggle with hygiene (excluding sensory issues) it could be a major sign of depression. Please reach out to a counselor if this sounds like you. You deserve to function enough to be clean on a typical basis.

What is a hygiene shortcut you've used? (Mine is styling my hair a certain way when I dont have time to brush it. Sorry mum)
Are you able to make time for your hygiene on a daily basis?