Healing Relationships

05/21/2025

Mental Health Support for Tornado Recovery
The recent tornado has left many in our community feeling shaken—and we want you to know you're not alone.

In partnership with providers across the Dodge county, we have created a resource guide with local mental health support, crisis services, and tips for recognizing trauma after a disaster. Whether you're struggling with sleep, anxiety, mood changes, or just feeling off—help is available.

💬 Support is confidential and available regardless of insurance or income
🧠 Includes info on trauma-informed care options like EMDR, CBT, Brainspotting & more
📍 Local providers who understand what you’re going through

➡️ Please take a look—and share it with anyone who might need a little extra support right now. This is our community, and we take car

https://www.canva.com/design/DAGoA7utXa8/ISFCiEaghq4cSGMgVR1UMg/edit?utm_content=DAGoA7utXa8&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton

05/13/2025

Job Opportunity: Individual Skill Developer and Educator (ISDE)
Location: Dodge County, WI and surrounding rural areas
Position Type: Part-Time or Full-Time
Flexible Hours | Community Impact | Supportive Team

About the Role
Are you passionate about helping others build life skills, grow in confidence, and connect to their communities? We’re looking for a dedicated Individual Skill Developer and Educator (ISDE) to support individuals living with mental health challenges on their journey toward wellness and independence.

As an ISDE, you’ll work one-on-one with clients to strengthen communication, problem-solving, self-care, daily living, and interpersonal skills. This is a meaningful opportunity to make a real impact—whether in clients’ homes, in the community, or in office settings.

This role is ideal for someone who is compassionate, reliable, and eager to work in a rural setting with the flexibility to build their own schedule. Strong supervision and training are provided.

Key Responsibilities
Work directly with clients to support recovery, self-direction, and daily functioning

Provide coaching and training in skills such as communication, self-regulation, financial management, household care, and transportation

Support families of minors with skills to enhance the minor’s social, school, and community integration

Promote culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, and age-appropriate support

Maintain respectful, empowering relationships that honor client autonomy and dignity

Work as part of a collaborative, supervised mental health team

Provide thorough, timely documentation and communicate with supervisors regarding client needs and safety concerns

Minimum Qualifications
High School Diploma or equivalent (Bachelor’s degree in human services or related field preferred; higher pay offered with degree)

Clean criminal background check

Valid driver’s license with clean driving record

Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and ethical awareness

Interest in trauma-informed, recovery-oriented approaches

Preferred
Experience in social services, education, or caregiving

Familiarity with mental health or recovery concepts

Ability to work independently while being part of a coordinated team

Strong written and verbal communication skills

Why Join Us?
Flexible scheduling to meet your needs

Make a lasting difference in the lives of others

Join a supportive, mission-driven team focused on healing and community

Paid supervision and ongoing training provided

To Apply
Please send your resume and a brief statement of interest to:
📧 jwagnermft@healingrelationshipswi.com

Let’s build skills. Let’s build hope. Let’s build lives—together.

05/13/2025

Job Opening: Pre-Licensed Professional Counselor or Marriage and Family Therapist
Location: Rural Dodge County, WI (In-office and/or In-home)
Job Type: Part-Time or Full-Time
Flexible Schedule | Supportive Team | Supervision Available

Position Overview
Are you a recent graduate or a therapist working toward licensure in Wisconsin? We’re looking for passionate and dedicated Master’s-level counselors and marriage and family therapists to join our team serving rural communities with heart and integrity.

Whether you're just stepping into the field or are further along your licensure journey, we offer flexible scheduling, the option to work in a warm office setting or in clients' homes, and clinical supervision to support your professional growth.

What We Offer
Flexible hours tailored to your availability and needs

In-office, in-home, and hybrid service options

Clinical supervision toward licensure (LPC-IT, MFT-IT)

Competitive compensation

Administrative support (scheduling, billing, documentation systems)

A collaborative and nurturing team environment

Opportunities for professional development and continuing education

Responsibilities
Provide individual, couple, and/or family therapy under supervision

Complete intake assessments, treatment planning, and session documentation

Engage in regular supervision and team check-ins

Uphold ethical and culturally sensitive practices

Participate in team learning and growth opportunities

Qualifications
Master’s degree in Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, or related mental health field

Eligible for LPC-IT or MFT-IT status in Wisconsin (or currently holding an “In Training” license)

Reliable transportation (for in-home visits, if applicable)

Commitment to equity, relational healing, and community well-being

Preferred
Some clinical experience through practicum/internship

Interest in working with diverse populations and rural families

Trauma-informed and systems-oriented approach

Apply Today
Please send your resume and a brief cover letter describing your interest and your ideal work schedule to:
📧 jwagnermft@healingrelationshipswi.com

Join us in creating a space where therapists grow, clients heal, and community thrives—right here in rural Wisconsin.

05/08/2025

"What’s in the Box? (Hint: It Might Save a Life)"
There’s a new addition outside our building. It’s not another birdhouse or community book exchange, though we’re fond of both. No, this one’s a bit different. It’s bright red, white, and blue, hard to miss, and stocked with something that could save a life before the ambulance even arrives. It’s our new OAK Box—Overdose Aid Kit—and while it doesn’t contain ancient wisdom or trail mix, it does hold Narcan (naloxone), a medication that can reverse an opioid overdose in moments.
Let’s be honest: no one ever dreams of needing Narcan. You don’t plan your weekend around it, and it doesn’t have the comforting ring of “first aid” or “emergency chocolate.” But here’s the thing—mental health and substance use are often not just neighbors, they’re roommates. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, about 50% of people with a substance use disorder also experience a mental illness at some point in their lives. That’s half. That’s your neighbor, your coworker, your cousin. That might even be you or me.
Mental health challenges—like depression, anxiety, trauma, or just plain trying to survive in a chaotic world—can lead people to self-medicate. Opioids, alcohol, and other substances can feel like a lifeboat in a storm. But the storm doesn’t calm—it just changes shape.
That’s why we didn’t think twice about installing the OAK Box. It's not just a box. It's a message:
"We see you. We care. And we want you to stay alive long enough to heal."
There’s something radical in putting life-saving tools right out in the open, free to anyone who needs them, no questions asked. No paperwork. No shame. Just help.
And yes, we’ve heard the skeptics: “Won’t this encourage drug use?”
Look, no one’s walking past a box of Narcan and thinking, “Hey, now I’ll try heroin.” That’s not how addiction works. But someone might be walking by with a friend, a sibling, or a stranger on the ground—not breathing—and that little box becomes everything.
We’re in the business of healing, and sometimes healing starts with survival. Mental health support and harm reduction aren’t at odds. They’re partners. Because when someone knows they’re worth saving in their darkest hour, they’re more likely to believe they’re worth healing too.
So if you see the OAK Box outside our facility, give it a nod. Maybe tell it thanks. It’s small, quiet, and unassuming—but it’s there, standing guard, ready to save someone’s story before it ends too soon.

Stacy Dahlke, LPC-IT

04/24/2025

Mid-Year Goal Reflection: A Gentle Growth Check-In
As we find ourselves moving steadily through the year, it’s the perfect time to pause and reflect—on our goals, our growth, and the path we’re walking. Life moves quickly, and in the rush of daily demands, it’s easy to lose sight of the intentions we set just a few months ago. But growth isn’t always loud or dramatic. Often, it’s quiet, subtle, and steady—something we only notice when we take the time to look back.
A goal reflection or growth check-in isn’t about judgment or pressure. It’s about curiosity. What’s been working well? What have you learned? Have your goals shifted? Are there areas where you’ve felt stuck or stretched in new ways?
Ask yourself:
What progress have I made toward my goals so far?

What challenges have I faced, and how have I responded to them?

Is there a small next step I can take, even if I’m not where I thought I’d be?

Are there goals that no longer align with who I am becoming?

This check-in is an invitation to give yourself credit, adjust your direction if needed, and move forward with more clarity and intention. Growth is never all-or-nothing—it’s often found in the messy middle, in the space between where we started and where we’re headed.
Be gentle with yourself. You’re growing, even on the days it doesn’t feel like it.

Erin Ashcraft
LMFT

04/17/2025

How’s That New Year’s Resolution Going? (Spoiler: It’s Okay If It’s Not Going at All)
So… remember those shiny New Year’s resolutions you made back in January? You know, the ones you swore would make 2025 your most productive, healthiest, and organized year yet? You probably wrote them down in your planner, stuck them on your vision board, or even made a TikTok about them. And then... life happened.
It’s already April (yes, you read that right—April!), and those ambitious goals might be gathering dust somewhere between your last attempt at a morning routine and your "I’ll start fresh on Monday" mantra. But hey, here’s the thing: You’re still doing great. Really.
Let’s talk about that, shall we?
First: Breathe. Seriously.
You’ve got this. Whether you’re already crushing your goals, have shifted them into something more attainable, or maybe you forgot what they were by the time February rolled around, there’s no reason to beat yourself up. Life can get busy—like, really busy. Your mental health, sanity, and happiness come first. Everything else? We’ll get to it.
Now’s the perfect time to check in with yourself and evaluate those goals, but let’s do it with zero judgment. In fact, if you’re sitting there thinking, “Wow, I should’ve done more by now,” I need you to stop right there. Stop it. Let’s embrace the magic of being kind to yourself, okay? The world is already filled with enough criticism—let’s take a break from that.
The Real Goal: Mental Health and Happiness
Sure, you might’ve set some big goals like getting fit, eating healthier, or learning a new skill. But how are you feeling mentally and emotionally? That’s the real goal, my friend. Because you can be doing everything ‘right’ on paper and still feel burnt out, overwhelmed, or just plain “meh” inside.
If your mental health is not where you want it to be, that’s a huge goal to address—whether it’s through therapy, journaling, finding time for self-care, or simply letting go of unnecessary expectations. After all, mental health is a marathon, not a sprint. And sometimes, the best thing you can do is give yourself permission to not be perfect.
Did You Eat a Donut Today? Great.
I know, I know. You promised to eat more greens in 2025, but the reality is that pizza was calling your name (and who can blame you?). It’s okay. In fact, it’s normal to have moments where you don’t follow through exactly how you imagined. Perfection is a myth, and your well-being doesn’t hinge on every meal or workout session.
Let’s go for the vibe of “making progress, not perfection.” Did you eat one salad this week instead of none? Fantastic! Did you walk around the block instead of running a marathon? Amazing! Each small step counts. Celebrate those tiny victories. They all add up in ways we often fail to acknowledge.
Did You Skip the Gym for the 13th Time This Week? No Biggie.
So what if you’ve skipped a few workouts? Or more than a few? We’ve all been there. The gym membership is just sitting there quietly, judging you… or not. It doesn’t matter if you went every day for a week and then took a six-month break. You’re allowed to change your mind, to adjust your goals, or even to reset entirely. What matters most is that you’re showing up for yourself in some way—whether it’s through stretching on the couch, walking, dancing in the kitchen, or taking the stairs instead of the elevator. Movement is movement.
The Reality of Goals: They’re Fluid
Sometimes, those grand New Year’s resolutions don’t fit into the rhythm of our lives the way we thought they would. Maybe the goal of “meditating every day” turned into “meditating when I can remember to,” and that’s totally fine. Your goals should evolve with you—don’t be afraid to check in, reassess, and tweak them. Mental health is a journey, and it’s not a race.
Let’s give ourselves some grace here. The goal is to be kinder to ourselves, no matter what the calendar (or scale) says! If your goals have shifted, that’s progress too. Maybe you learned that setting smaller, more realistic goals works better for you. Or maybe you learned that not all goals need to be completed in one year (“finish reading 52 books” overall rather than in a year goal). No one is keeping score here except you—and guess what? You’re doing fine.
Moving Forward: Be Gentle with Yourself
You’re probably your own worst critic, and we get it. But what if you decided to be your biggest cheerleader instead? What if, instead of saying, “I’ve failed,” you said, “I’m doing the best I can, and that’s enough”? It’s all about self-compassion.
As we head into spring, give yourself permission to reframe your goals and priorities. Does that mean letting go of some? Yes. Does it mean adjusting others? Absolutely. But the most important thing is that you’re staying true to what feels right for you. You’re not in competition with anyone. You’re on your own journey, and sometimes that path includes rest, change, and a little extra grace.
Final Thoughts: It’s All About the Journey (And Maybe a Little Cake)
So, how are you doing with those resolutions? Regardless of where you are on your goal journey, let’s just agree on one thing: we’re all human, and we’re all allowed to stumble, reset, and adjust as we go. Progress isn’t linear, and that’s perfectly fine.
This month, instead of focusing on where you “should” be, take a moment to appreciate where you are. Whether you’ve been rocking it or you’ve had a few setbacks (because that’s normal too), you’re doing the best you can—and that’s more than enough.
So go ahead, have that donut, enjoy a nap, and celebrate what you’ve accomplished. Because mental health matters more than a goal, and you, my friend, deserve kindness.

Licensed therapist helping individuals, couples, and families find healing and insights for their lives. Day and evening appointment times and virtual support sessions available.

04/03/2025

Late last spring as I walked around my neighborhood, I found myself pausing for a moment in front of an abandoned building overrun by w**ds. I had walked by these same w**ds countless times, but on this day, I noticed something different. I noticed how truly beautiful this growth had become. I noticed vibrant yellows, pure whites, brilliant shades of green, and warm browns. There were different textures, sizes, and shapes. At that moment I wondered, why do we work so hard to eliminate w**ds from our yards and neighborhoods for the sake of simply growing grass? I also found myself admiring the resiliency of these w**ds. Not only were they able to grow through the cracks in the concrete, they were able to withstand drought, extreme heat, w**d killer, and rebirth after Wisconsin’s harsh winters. I noticed that these amazing w**ds were able to grow together harmoniously without choking each other out, and making room for each plant to get what it needs to thrive. Ultimately, I questioned, who decided these plants were “w**ds” and less valuable than traditional flowers and grasses?

Human change and growth is very much the same. We are held to arbitrary, often unattainable, standards because beauty and strength are celebrated in perfection. We are expected to bloom and blossom under the same conditions as everyone else around us and anything outside of uniformity is deemed as “less than.” But we are not grass. We are not flowers. We are w**ds. We have to fight through the cracks to reach the light. Our challenges remain unseen and yet we prevail. Our beauty is in our uniqueness and our ability to use our strengths to thrive with those around us. Perhaps the most remarkable, is that each “spring”... each new day, season, or moment, we can experience a rebirth to embrace ourselves for who we truly are. The world may not recognize or acknowledge all that we have overcome nor the remarkable strength that we each hold, but it doesn’t make us any less beautiful or valuable.

So this spring, I encourage you to recognize that your growth this year may not have been as effortless as the grass or as visible as a blooming flower, but it is the overcoming that makes you the amazing person you truly are.

Jennifer Walters
Therapeutic Intern

03/27/2025

Springing into Wellness: A Marriage and Family Therapist’s Guide to Renewal
Spring is a season of renewal—a time when nature blossoms, the days grow longer, and we feel inspired to refresh our lives. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I see this season as an opportunity to encourage individuals, couples, and families to embrace their own personal growth and emotional well-being.

Refresh Your Relationships
Just as we clear out clutter in our homes, spring is a great time to assess and revitalize our relationships. Take time to reflect on your communication patterns—are they fostering connection or creating distance? Small gestures, like intentional conversations, shared activities, or even expressing gratitude, can breathe new life into relationships.

Prioritize Mental and Emotional Wellness
Longer days and warmer weather make it easier to engage in self-care. Whether it’s spending time outdoors, practicing mindfulness, or revisiting therapy goals, spring is an ideal time to focus on mental health. If you’ve been feeling stuck, consider exploring new therapeutic techniques or coping strategies to bring a sense of renewal.

Embrace Growth and Change
Just as flowers bloom after winter, we too, can grow through life’s challenges. If you’re navigating stress, relationship struggles, or family transitions, use this season as a reminder that change is possible. Therapy provides a safe space to explore, heal, and create meaningful change in your life.

This spring, take a step toward wellness—whether through small daily habits, deepening connections, or seeking support when needed. Renewal starts with intention, and now is the perfect time to embrace a fresh start.
Erin Ashcraft
LMFT

03/13/2025

The Mind-Body Connection: When Your Brain and Body Finally Stop Arguing and Have a Drink Together
Let's talk about the mind-body connection, shall we? If you're like me, you're probably wondering if this connection is more like a long-distance relationship or the annoying neighbor who knocks on your door to complain about the noise you didn't make. Either way, it's essential. Think of your brain and your body like a dysfunctional couple trying to navigate life together. Sometimes they get along, sometimes they don’t—there’s the occasional miscommunication, and at least one of them thinks it’s the other’s fault when things go south.
But here's the thing: when they finally decide to cooperate, magic happens. It's like when your cat suddenly decides it likes being cuddled after a year of acting like a mini lion. That is the mind-body connection working its magic. It's all about finding that balance between your mental well-being and your physical health, and when both of those work together. You feel like a well-oiled machine, ready to conquer the world—or at least, the nearest coffee shop.
1. Mind Over Matter (Well, Mostly)
You know how you can be perfectly physically fine, but your brain is like that one friend who constantly reminds you of all the things you've forgotten to do? “Hey, remember you haven’t called your mom in two weeks? Remember that time you tripped on the sidewalk last Tuesday?” Your body might be doing just fine, but if your mind's running amok, you're walking around like a zombie, but without the cool “undead” look.
Enter wellness practices. Meditation is the superhero we all need—"Meditation: because sometimes your mind needs a timeout from your brain." I know what you’re thinking and I get it. You’ve heard about meditation, and you’re probably thinking, “Okay, but do I have to sit like a pretzel and pretend to be a monk for 30 minutes?” No, meditation is less about becoming a human origami and more about quieting the mind. Even five minutes can help. Your brain deserves some time to rest and recharge. Think of it like a coffee break... but for your soul. Challenge yourself to find mindful ways to let your mind rest.
2. Mind-Body Duo: The Dynamic Duo of Wellness
Now, let’s talk about your body. It’s the less dramatic partner in this relationship, simply doing what it’s supposed to do. But here’s the catch—if you ignore your body, it’ll be like your phone’s battery running low. Eventually, it’s going to die.
Exercise is your body’s happy dance. You don’t have to train for a marathon (unless you really, really want to and can somehow muster the enthusiasm). Walking, stretching, yoga, or even hula hooping in your living room all count. Find what makes your body feel good. Get moving, and your body will thank you in the long run. It’s like you’re treating yourself to a mini spa day without having to sell a kidney for it. Find a physical activity you like, so it doesn’t feel like punishment. A good workout should feel like dancing at a wedding—fun, slightly embarrassing, but mostly rewarding.

3. Food: The Unsung Hero
Alright, this one’s important. When your body’s not getting the nutrients it needs, it’s basically like putting diesel in a hybrid car. It’s not going to work. As much as I would love it, we can’t live on caffeine and chocolate alone…..even the really good stuff!
Eating foods that nourish both your mind and body is a game changer. Omega-3 fatty acids (hello, fish), leafy greens, and whole grains keep you sharp and steady. Plus, your body loves a good, healthy meal as much as you love a good binge-watching session of your favorite show. So, treat it with the care it deserves.
4. Mental Health: Because We All Deserve a Little Chill Time
Mental health is one of those topics that’s often brushed under the rug like a suspiciously sticky glob under the table top. Let’s face it, life can throw a lot at you. Whether you’re juggling work, family, or just trying to find your other sock in the laundry, stress can mount up faster than your unread emails.
That’s why a holistic lifestyle isn’t just about eating quinoa and doing yoga at sunrise. It’s about finding ways to manage stress, keep your mind healthy, and work on your emotional well-being. Therapy? Amazing. Talking it out with a friend? Priceless. Taking a bubble bath while sipping tea and pretending you’re a British Royal? Oh, you bet. Mental health is just as important as physical health—and probably more important than whatever’s trending on TikTok this week (although we’re only human). Albert Einstein once said, “You can’t solve your problems by using the same brain that created them. Sometimes you need a different perspective, like a therapist, or maybe just a nap.”
5. Sleep: The Ultimate Reset Button
Finally, let’s talk about sleep. Everyone needs it, but we’re all addicted to scrolling on our phones at 2 a.m. We’ve all been there. But when you’re sleep-deprived, it’s like walking through life with a foggy lens. Your brain can’t think straight, and your body is just tired of pretending to function.
Sleep is the ultimate reset button for both mind and body. It helps you process emotions, heal physically, and keep your mental health in check. Sleep hygiene is not an exact science, but it does have its rules. By getting rid of distractions, creating a soothing environment, keeping a regular schedule, and saying no to midnight snacks, you might just improve your chances of drifting into a peaceful slumber. But remember, everyone has their own sleep ritual, so experiment with what works best for you to get the best night’s rest.

So, what's the takeaway from this mind-body connection tale? Well, it’s simple: your brain and body are teammates. Treat them right, and they’ll help you win the game of life. Nourish them, move them, rest them, and they’ll start getting along like your favorite friends. The mind-body connection is music to your soul. Keep your balance, laugh often, and remember sometimes the best therapy is just a good nap.
Stacy Dahlke, LPC-IT

03/06/2025

My path to becoming a mental health clinician began with my personal journey towards wellness. In 2016, I made some major life changes that included eating foods that fueled my body rather than those that numbed my unhappiness and I began exercising every day. While my body transformation fueled my mission to continue with these lifestyle changes, the transformation in my improved mental health was an even greater, and unexpected bonus! As a coach and trainer, I wanted to help my clients do the same. We often focus on the why behind their goals to lose weight. I have been met with things like: •to be able to play with my grandkids •to be able to hike during my trip to Ireland •to reduce my pain •to feel more confident, and so many other things that are beyond the unrealistic beauty standards popular culture imposes on us, and definitely reasons beyond an arbitrary number on a scale. In 2022; I set out to learn about the science behind what I was witnessing in the work I was doing; to learn how mental and physical health are connected and how to bridge the gap between the two.

Wellness is not merely the absence of illness, but living a life that is satisfying, fulfilling, and one in which you are able to reach your full potential. It’s an intricate relationship between physical and mental health in addition to a number of other factors including social, emotional, financial, spiritual/religious, intellectual, financial, and environmental influences. If you are struggling in one area, the others are also impacted. Similarly, if you are thriving in one area, it can help you better cope with the challenges in the other areas.

Wellness is comprehensive well-being and mental health professionals are available to help clients build strengths, align with their values, and achieve holistic wellness

Jennifer Walters
Therapeutic Intern

02/20/2025

The Meaning of Love: A Personal and Relational Journey

Love is a word we all know, but its meaning is deeply personal and unique to each of us. As an LMFT, I see firsthand how our experiences, upbringing, and personal values shape our interpretation of love. Some see love as affection and words of affirmation, while others feel it through acts of service or quality time. Our individual love languages are influenced by our family systems and past relationships, impacting how we give and receive love.

Systemically, love operates as an emotional exchange within relationships. It’s a dynamic process where needs, expectations, and communication patterns interact. Misunderstandings often arise when partners express love differently. For example, one partner might show love through actions, while the other craves verbal affirmations, leading to feelings of being unloved or unappreciated.

Understanding and embracing each other’s love languages can bridge these gaps. By exploring our own definitions of love and openly communicating them, we build deeper connections and foster healthier, more fulfilling relationships.

Erin Ashcraft
LMFT

02/13/2025

Let’s be real—life is a wild rollercoaster, and sometimes, it feels like we didn’t meet the height requirement but got strapped in anyway. In the midst of it all, two things can keep us grounded: self-love and good friends. And if you’re lucky, a dog that doesn’t judge you for eating cereal at 2 AM.

Step 1: Love Yourself (Even When You’re a Hot Mess)
We’ve all had those days—lying on the couch, binge-watching shows, surrounded by crumbs, and wondering if we’re the main character or just an extra in someone else’s life. But as Oscar Wilde said, “To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance.” So, go ahead and romance yourself! Take yourself out for coffee, wear that ridiculous but comfy outfit, and hype yourself up in the mirror like you’re your own personal cheerleader.
Self-love isn’t about perfection; it’s about acceptance. Even Beyoncé has bad days (probably). So if you need a nap instead of a workout or a night in instead of a night out, listen to yourself. Mental health is about balance, not burnout. Small acts of self-care, like journaling or practicing mindfulness, can make a huge difference in your overall well-being. Taking care of your mental health should never feel like a chore—it should be as natural as brushing your teeth (which, yes, you should also do).
When we cultivate self-love, it doesn’t just benefit us. It enhances our relationships with others. Think about it—when we love and accept ourselves, we can offer the same to the people around us. We become better partners, friends, and family members because we no longer expect others to fulfill our every need. Instead, we’re able to approach others from a place of abundance rather than scarcity.
Love doesn’t always have to come from others to be valid. Sometimes, the most profound love we can receive is the love we give ourselves. When we nurture our own well-being, we create space for deeper, more meaningful connections with others.

Step 2: Surround Yourself with People Who Get It (and Get You Snacks)
A good friend is like Wi-Fi—when they’re strong, they keep you connected. But when they’re weak, it’s just frustrating and leaves you questioning your life choices. As C.S. Lewis wisely put it, “Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another, ‘What! You too? I thought I was the only one.’”
True friendship isn’t just about shared interests; it’s about shared love and support. The best friends are those who make you feel seen and valued, even in your lowest moments. They celebrate your victories as if they were their own and remind you of your worth when you forget it. As Ralph Waldo Emerson put it, “The only way to have a friend is to be one.”
Mental health thrives in environments of trust and understanding. Surround yourself with friends who allow you to be your authentic self without fear of judgment. They should encourage you to talk about your struggles, seek professional help if needed, and remind you that you’re never alone. Emotional support isn’t about fixing problems—it’s about showing up, listening, and maybe sharing a pint of ice cream when words aren’t enough.
Your friends should be the kind of people who remind you to drink water, let you rant about things that don’t actually matter, and support you when life gets weird. And let’s not forget: real friends send memes when words fail. If someone isn’t adding joy (or at least snacks) to your life, it’s okay to reevaluate that friendship. Mental health is about quality, not quantity.

Step 3: Laugh Through The Chaos
Life is weird. One day you’re thriving, and the next, you’re googling “Can you survive on coffee and hope?” Mark Twain once said, “The human race has one really effective weapon, and that is laughter.” So, when life hands you lemons, throw them back and ask for chocolate instead.
Self-love and good friendships won’t erase bad days, but they’ll make them easier to handle. Love, whether for yourself or your friends, is the glue that keeps everything together. Laughter, in particular, is a powerful mental health tool. It reduces stress, releases endorphins, and reminds us that even in tough times, joy can still be found. Studies have shown that laughter can improve mood, strengthen relationships, and even boost immunity.
So, when things get tough, watch a silly video, crack a joke, or have a laugh with friends who understand you. Even in the darkest moments, humor can be a lifeline, helping you regain perspective and find light in the chaos. Be kind to yourself, cherish those who lift you up, and never underestimate the healing power of a ridiculous group chat.

Healing Relationships is a therapy practice offering individual, couples, and family therapy. Our mission is to provide compassionate, client-centered care that empowers clients to navigate life’s challenges and achieve their personal goals.