Pathways to Wellness Counseling

05/19/2024

🧠 May is Mental Health Awareness Month! 🧠

Taking care of our mental health is just as important as taking care of our physical health. By prioritizing mental well-being, we can lead happier, healthier lives. Here are some ways to help improve your mental health:

1. **Stay Connected:** Build strong, positive relationships with friends and family. Social connections provide support and can help you navigate tough times.

2. **Exercise Regularly:** Physical activity can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days.

3. **Get Enough Sleep:** Quality sleep is crucial for mental health. Try to get 7-9 hours of sleep each night.

4. **Practice Mindfulness:** Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can help calm your mind and improve your mood.

5. **Seek Professional Help:** If you're struggling, don't hesitate to reach out to a therapist or counselor. Professional support can make a significant difference.

6. **Limit Screen Time:** Too much time on screens, especially social media, can increase anxiety and depression. Take breaks and engage in offline activities.

7. **Eat a Balanced Diet:** Nutrition plays a role in mental health. Eat a variety of foods to keep your body and mind well-nourished.

Breaking the stigma around mental health is crucial. Many people suffer in silence due to fear of judgment. Let's create an environment where everyone feels safe to speak up and seek help. By sharing our experiences and supporting one another, we can make a positive impact.

Let's work together to break the stigma and prioritize mental health for everyone. 💚

Call Pathways to Wellness Counseling 276-782-0390 and speak to a therpist today and find your pathway to better mental health!!

03/08/2024

Please mark your calendars for our next Campus Cleanup Day on April 3, 2024, from 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM. King University faculty, staff, students, and alumni are invited to participate. Projects will include pulling weeds, mulching, spring cleaning, and more. To register, please visit www.king.edu/campuscleanupday. See you there!

03/08/2024

https://www.facebook.com/share/rM2GNB4DyQC4H5NX/?mibextid=xfxF2i

The 2024 Opportunity and Career Fair will be on Friday, April 26th from 9:00am until 3:00pm at Chilhowie Christian Church. Join us to network with over 50 regional employers, higher education representatives, non-profits, and local government representatives. The Opportunity and Career Fair is open to all job seekers!

Register your organization to participate in the Opportunity and Career Fair! Connect with Smyth County high school seniors and job seekers while representing your organization.

Learn more about the Opportunity and Career Fair here: https://fb.me/e/zjTWpiI9a.

02/21/2024

🌟 Importance of Mental Health Awarenes🌟

Hey everyone,

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's easy to overlook our mental health. Taking care of our mental well-being is just as important as taking care of our physical health, if not more.

Here are a few reasons why prioritizing mental health matters:

1️⃣ Improved Quality of Life: When we prioritize our mental health, we experience greater happiness, satisfaction, and overall well-being in our lives.

2️⃣ Better Relationships: Mental health impacts how we interact with others. By taking care of ourselves mentally, we can build healthier, more fulfilling relationships with those around us.

3️⃣ Enhanced Productivity: A healthy mind is essential for productivity and success. When we're mentally well, we can think more clearly, focus better, and perform at our best in all areas of life.

4️⃣ Reduced Stress: Investing in our mental health helps us better cope with stressors and challenges that come our way, leading to a more balanced and resilient life.

Remember, it's okay not to be okay sometimes, and seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Let's prioritize our
mental health and support each other on this journey towards greater well-being. 💙

Reach out to Pathways to Wellness Counseling today to make an appointment and start your journey to a healthier you!!

Call 276-782-0390 or message this page for more info!! www.pathways-to-wellness.com

09/28/2023

🌟 Let's Talk About Depression 🌟

Hey friends,

Today, I want to talk openly about something that affects so many of us, but often remains hidden in the shadows: depression. 💔

It's okay not to be okay. Let me say that again, It is ok not to be ok!! Depression can make even the brightest days feel clouded, and it's not something anyone should have to face alone. 🤝

If you're struggling with depression, remember:

✅ You are not alone.
✅ It's okay to seek help.
✅ There's no shame in talking about it.

Reach out to friends, family, or a mental health professional. There's strength in sharing your feelings and seeking support. 💪

For those who know someone battling depression, be there for them. Sometimes, a simple "How are you feeling today?" can make all the difference.

Let's create a safe space where we can support each other, break the stigma, and work toward brighter days together. 💖

Feel free to share this post to reach someone in need.

If you or someone you know would like to speak to a mental health professional, call Pathways to Wellness Counseling at 276-782-0390.

09/02/2023

🌟 Unlock Healing with EMDR Therapy 🌟

Are you ready to break free from the chains of trauma, anxiety, and past experiences that hold you back? Experience a profound transformation with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy.

🔷 What is EMDR Therapy? 🔷

EMDR therapy is a cutting-edge and evidence-based approach to healing trauma and a wide range of emotional wounds. Through a guided process, your trained EMDR therapist helps you reprocess distressing memories and emotions, allowing you to regain control over your life.

✨ Why Choose EMDR Therapy? ✨

🌈 Rapid Healing: EMDR often delivers results more quickly than traditional therapy, providing relief when you need it most.
🌟 Lasting Change: Break the cycle of intrusive thoughts, anxiety, and emotional pain to experience true and lasting transformation.
🧠 Neurologically Informed: EMDR taps into your brain's natural healing abilities, promoting self-regulation and resilience.
🛡️ Trauma Resolution: Address a wide range of traumatic experiences, from childhood trauma to recent distressing events.
🌞 Regain Control: Rediscover your inner strength, boost self-esteem, and cultivate a renewed sense of self.

👤 Who Can Benefit from EMDR Therapy?

EMDR therapy is suitable for individuals of all ages who have experienced: trauma, PTSD, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, grief and loss, phobias, disturbing memories, performance anxiety, and more...

💫 Experience Freedom and Empowerment Today!

Take the first step towards a brighter, healthier future. Our compassionate EMDR therapists are here to guide you on your healing journey. Reclaim your life, find peace, and embrace a brighter tomorrow.📞 Contact Us Now: Pathways to Wellness Counseling 276-782-0390 🌐 Learn More: www.pathways-to-wellness.com 📍

Don't let the past define your future. Discover the transformative power of EMDR therapy and step into a life filled with hope, resilience, and inner peace.

08/30/2023

https://www.facebook.com/100050607573985/posts/839005291129716/?mibextid=CDWPTG

Discover and download free resources for yourself, your children, or your students.

08/21/2023

Managing anxiety involves a combination of lifestyle changes, coping strategies, and, in some cases, professional help. Here are some top tips to help you manage anxiety:

Practice Deep Breathing: Deep, slow breathing can help calm your nervous system. Practice techniques like diaphragmatic breathing or the 4-7-8 technique: inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7 seconds, and exhale for 8 seconds.

Stay Active: Regular exercise can reduce anxiety by releasing endorphins and improving your mood. Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week.

Get Adequate Sleep: Lack of sleep can exacerbate anxiety. Establish a consistent sleep routine and create a calm environment conducive to relaxation.

Limit Caffeine and Sugar: Both caffeine and sugar can contribute to increased anxiety and energy fluctuations. Reduce your intake and opt for healthier alternatives.

Healthy Diet: Consume a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts can be particularly beneficial for mental health.

Mindfulness and Meditation: Mindfulness practices and meditation can help you stay present and reduce ruminative thinking. Apps and guided sessions are available to help you get started.

Limit Screen Time: Excessive exposure to news and social media can heighten anxiety. Set boundaries on screen time and focus on activities that bring you joy.

Social Support: Reach out to friends, family, or support groups. Talking about your feelings with trusted individuals can help alleviate anxiety.

Set Realistic Goals: Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps. Setting achievable goals can help you avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Practice Relaxation Techniques: Experiment with techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation, visualization, or aromatherapy to promote relaxation.

Journaling: Write down your thoughts and feelings. This can help you identify triggers, patterns, and areas of concern.

Limit Alcohol and Substance Use: These substances can worsen anxiety and interfere with treatment strategies.

Professional Help: If anxiety is significantly impacting your daily life, consider seeking help from a mental health professional. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication can be effective treatments.

Time Management: Organize your tasks and responsibilities, prioritizing what needs immediate attention. This can help prevent feeling overwhelmed.

Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself and avoid self-criticism. Treat yourself with the same kindness you would offer to a friend.

Engage in Hobbies: Engaging in activities you enjoy can provide a sense of accomplishment and distract from anxious thoughts.

Progressive Exposure: Gradually facing situations that trigger anxiety can help desensitize your response over time.

Limit Perfectionism: Striving for perfection can increase stress and anxiety. Aim for progress, not perfection.

Remember that managing anxiety is a journey and there's no one-size-fits-all solution. It's important to find strategies that work for you personally. If your anxiety is severe or persistent, consider reaching out to Pathways to Wellness Counseling for assistance.
276-782-0390

07/11/2023

This is a topic that is a common occurrence in therapy sessions. We do speak to ourselves worse than we would ever allow someone else to. Negative self talk has lasting effects. Why is that we treat ourselves this way? We all deserve to love ourselves more and to build ourselves up as we would our friends. Try it and see the changes take effect in your life.

https://fb.watch/lJwAYDpuaz/?mibextid=Nif5oz

07/10/2023

The healing power of horses 🐎

04/24/2023

Recent studies conducted by the Institute of Heart-Math provide a clue to explain the two-way ′′ healing ′′ that occurs when we're close to horses.

According to researchers, the heart has an electromagnetic field larger than the brain: a magnetometer can measure the energy field of the heart that radiates from 2.4 meters to 3 meters around the human body.

While this is certainly significant, perhaps more impressive than the electromagnetic field projected by the heart of a horse is five times larger than that of a human being (imagine an electromagnetic sphere around the horse) and it can influence straight into our own heart rate.

Horses are also likely to have what science has identified as a ′′ coherent ′′ heart rate (heart rate pattern) that explains why we can ′′ feel better ′′ when we're close to them. Studies have found a coherent heart pattern or HRV to be a solid measure of well-being and consistent with emotional states of calm and joy-that is, we exhibit such patterns when we feel positive emotions.

A coherent heart pattern is indicative of a system that can recover and adapt to stressful situations very efficiently. Many times, we just need to be in the presence of horses to feel a sense of well-being and peace.

In fact, research shows that people experience many physiological benefits by interacting with horses, including lower blood pressure and heart rate, higher beta-endorphins (neurotransmitters acting as pain suppressors), decreased stress levels, decreased feelings of anger, hostility, tension and anxiety, better social working; and greater feelings of empowerment, confidence, patience and self-efficacy.~

www.heartmath.org.

03/06/2023

“How much weight can a horse carry?

In my experience, a horse can carry an infinite amount.

They can carry the weight of broken hearts, broken homes, and broken bodies. Countless tears sometimes comb their tangled manes. Moments when parents and friends cannot be there to help and hold a person, horses embrace and empower. They carry physical, mental, and emotional handicaps. They carry hopes and dreams; and they will carry the stress from your day when you can't carry it anymore.

They carry graduations, they carry new careers, they carry moves away from everything familiar, they carry marriages, they carry divorces, they carry funerals, they carry babys before they are born, and sometimes they carry the mothers who cannot carry their own baby. They carry mistakes, they carry joy, they carry the good and they carry the bad. They carry drugs and addictions, but they also carry the celebrations.

They will carry you to success when all you have felt is failure. They will carry you, never knowing the weight of your burdens and triumphs.

If you let them, they will carry you through life, and life is hard, life is heavy. But a horse will make you feel weightless under it all.”

-Written by Sara Huffman

Good night, God Bless. 🙏🏻💖

02/07/2023

Saturday day trip! Come with SLACK for a free lift ticket for a day at Beech Mountain! Leaving the school at 8 AM. Email SLACK to reserve your spot!

12/16/2022

Americans spend hours upon hours engaging in social media daily. This has created a space for raising awareness on tough issues like mental health, addiction, social issues, and many other topics that may be difficult to talk about. Social media is erasing the stigma. This is amazing news!!

Unfortunately, there are many creators on social media that unintentionally spread misinformation to their followers. This can be very damaging to those seeking help. Please make sure any mental health information is coming from an actual licensed mental health clinician.

The article below gives a glimpse of the problem. For those creators that want to be involved, please continue to raise awareness, but also, please acknowledge your credentials when providing mental health guidance. If you are not qualified, please tell your audience to seek professional treatment by a licensed mental health clinician.

How accurate is mental health advice on TikTok? Discover how many influencers have relevant qualifications, and why they can be misleading.

12/10/2022

Be more like horses. Hold space for those that need it.

https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=509663571187237&id=100064307964729&post_id=100064307964729_509663571187237&mibextid=Nif5oz

Grief….
This painting by the amazing artist MJ’s Equine Art Studios, LLC who had lost her sister…..
This painting sums it up my grief more than I can put Into words…
This hit me like a brick wall when I seen Maggie’s post …. She calls this work of art …..”Holding Space”❤️💔
Head over to her page to order a print of this moving painting ❤️

This is where I was when I got the news that they found my sons , Kyler, body…
I was in my stallions (Shiners Got Swagger) , pen feeding hay…
I dropped in the feeder screaming in pain… and this horse ….. my Angel without wings….sat over me and nussled my hair … not scared of my emotions… and stayed with me till I could catch my breath…
Hard to believe the anniversary date of when Kyler passed is coming up so quickly, December 16th…. Same day my Dad passed away several years before Kyler… brings me a little peace knowing they are together ❤️💔

Sometimes in the quiet of the morning sunrise the reality hits like a brick wall that Kyler is truly gone…
It is easier to stay busy during the day to keep the waves of grief from washing over me…
But occasionally…a walk through the grocery store and seeing his favourite foods…
Or this time of year … seeing his favourite things that I always got him for Christmas presents… he loved new socks… cologne…. fuzzy soft pj pants…Knocks me to my knees and I have had to leave a store as I can’t fight back the tears…..
Time doesn’t heal Grief but I am learning how to carry grief a little more gracefully than I did in the beginning…

But as time goes by…I have also learned to not avoid “grief “ but to sit with it when it visits… embrace it…feel all the feels….allow the waves of tears…just don’t drown in them…and get up a little more gracefully then I did in the beginning and carry on with my day

I always thought grief and happiness were two totally separate emotions and you could only have one or the other
I Am now learning they can go hand in hand….
I am learning grief… and gratitude
can exist simultaneously…
The grief of loosing my son ….and also being grateful that I had him for 25 yrs…as many that have reached out to me have lost their children waaay younger 💔
Hope and heartache can live in the same space…..
The heartache of the reality he is really physically gone ….and then seeing the beautiful signs he gives me makes me feel a small amount of gratitude …
Sorrow and Joy can both be present sometimes both in the same breath….
Grateful for the 25 yrs I got to be his Mom… and grateful for the signs he still sends… just wish for one more hug… one more I love you Mom

For those of you grieving the loss of a loved one this holiday season…. I see you… I understand….I hold space for you…be kind to yourself… know that it is ok to not be ok… it’s ok to be sad…. It’s ok to be happy …. Be kind to yourself ❤️
For those of you who haven’t lost a loved one … please be patient with those of us who have… for you it may seem like for ever ago… but for us it is every day….

My wish for all of you is….
Make sure you hug your loved ones a little tighter … a lil longer…
Say the I Love you’s…
Make the phone call..
Don’t take time for granted…
Live your life to the fullest
Be kind…. Always be kind… you have no idea the hell a person might be going through…

This artist captured what I couldn’t put Into words… Maggie you are AMAZING ❤️

12/07/2022

Change, breakthrough, miracle, and love are mine. What are your words for 2023?