Wood Holistic Counseling Gail Wood MS, LMHC

09/24/2025

Reframe your negative thoughts about this ADHD reality (for some). ADHD loves to hijack our dopamine reward pathways, so the idea = dopamine! Shopping and checking out = dopamine! The first successful project = dopamine! Trading your unused hobbies on Marketplace = dopamine, and a healthier way to get it. Be proud you were doing something to fill your self-care cup, but set boundaries with yourself to avoid more future impulse purchases.

09/08/2025

08/27/2025

I am currently working with an adult client who has Reactive Attachment Disorder, and our focus is healing the wounded inner child. The best aspect of kids' personalities is their ability to live in the moment, "enjoying the slightest majesty in life." I have been attuned to my own inner child lately, and these photos are slight majesties I've noticed over the past week or so. Be in wonder of the world!

05/14/2025

Big news — the book, The New Menopause, is on sale!
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This is your chance to join the community of readers learning to navigate menopause with confidence. Whether you’re just starting your journey, looking to deepen your knowledge, or want to share it with a friend, there’s no better time to get a copy!

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05/11/2025

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/14y8hgWydE9/

04/29/2025

Protecting character over connection is not communication.

01/31/2025

I am supportive of whatever type of therapy on whatever platform people choose to pursue; however, I do want to make people aware that some telehealth companies' platforms have a mandatory recording feature. This feature is used to train AI to write the therapists' progress notes for them. Your therapist can opt out of the recordings, and they must ask for your consent, but I'm sure there are well-meaning therapists out there that forget to do so if this is new to them. Please be aware that your sessions may be recorded, with or without your consent, either accidentally or on purpose. Ask your therapist if you are being recorded, and also ask how these files are deleted.
*Very few therapists will tell you that notes is a favorite part of their job; however, writing my own notes gives me time to review each clients' case and have more time to put the pieces of their puzzles together. I will never trust or use AI to do my job for me!

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12/18/2024

Healthy coping for holiday stress.

Most of us feel some level of stress around the holidays. These suggestions can help you cope with busy schedules, family dynamics, loneliness, and more.

12/05/2024

12/04/2024

Since before Thanksgiving, the term used most often by clients in my office is, "I have to..." For example, "I have to cook for 32 people." "I have to buy Christmas gifts for 14 cousins." "I have to bake cookies and make candy and fudge." When asked if the "have to" fills their cup, the answer is always, "No." Give yourself a break this year. Change, "I have to," to, "I want to." Simplify. Use paper plates this month. Ask your family to provide food and treats and drinks for your holiday get-together, especially if you're hosting at your home. Enjoy your holiday the way you WANT to. You're allowed.

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11/04/2024

This issue keeps presenting itself, so I will present you with some education: I am licensed to practice in Iowa. That's it. My clients need to be physically present in Iowa during our sessions. This means I cannot see you during your 3-week vacation cruise in the Caribbean, or your week at Yellowstone National Park. Please be aware of this when planning sessions with me. Thank you!
For college students who reside in Iowa but attend a university that's not located in Iowa: I may be able to request accommodations in other states, but that request may be denied. Plan accordingly. You deserve to get the help you need!

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