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Navigating the Holiday Season: A Guide to Mental Health and Well-Being
The holiday season is often portrayed as a time of joy, warmth, and togetherness. However, for many individuals, it can be a challenging...
2 min read


Understanding Somatic Traumas and Healing Through Ancient Practices and Mindfulness Techniques
Our bodies act like archives of our experiences, holding onto stress and unresolved feelings. In this post, we will explore the link between somatic traumas and mindfulness techniques found in Hindu, Taoist, and Buddhist practices. These ancient practices not only promote physical relaxation but also provide pathways to emotional healing and have been a very effective complimentary addition to traditional talk therapy and mental health counseling services.
4 min read


10 Tips for Re-Establishing School Routines After Summer Break
Establishing a routine before the start of the school year is crucial for students as it sets the tone for a successful academic journey ahead. A well-structured routine brings a sense of normalcy, consistency, and predictability, which are essential for reducing stress and anxiety levels among students of all ages.
3 min read


The Mind-Body-Spirit Connection: What It Is and How to Nurture It
Mental health, physical health, and spiritual well-being are all deeply connected — and when one part is out of balance, the others often feel it too. This is known as the mind-body-spirit connection.
3 min read


Creating a Sacred Space at Home for Reflection and Recharging
There’s no one “right” way to create a sacred space. What matters is that it feels supportive and soothing to you. Even five minutes in your sacred space can help you reset, quiet your mind, and reconnect with yourself — especially on the hardest days.
2 min read


Sleep and Mental Health: Why Rest is Non-Negotiable
Rest isn’t a luxury. It’s essential for your mental health.
2 min read


Effective Breath-Work Techniques for Managing Anxiety in Any Situation
Like any skill, breath-work takes practice! At first, it might feel strange or difficult to slow down. Start small — even one or two minutes of focused breathing can help. Over time, it becomes a reliable tool you can turn to anytime anxiety rises.
3 min read


How to Establish Healthy Limits and Boundaries for Children: A Guide to Positive Parenting Principles
Positive parenting is all about building a strong connection with your child through empathy, respect, and understanding. It’s about guiding them rather than controlling them, which promotes emotional and social development.
3 min read


Exploring the Impact of MLK Day on Inclusivity and Advocacy at Iowa Family Counseling
Martin Luther King Jr. Day (MLK Day) is more than just a federal holiday; it serves as an important reminder of our collective responsibility to fight for justice and equity.
2 min read


Simple Ways to Manage Self-Care
By Tori Dennis, MA Student-Intern with Iowa Family Counseling When you hear the words “self-care,” what comes to mind? I wouldn’t be...
3 min read


Prioritizing Provider Mental Health
Just a gentle reminder that you are a whole person. People who have the job of helping other people are required to set their own needs,...
2 min read


Is School-Based Therapy Right for My Child?
One of the central services that Iowa Family Counseling is proud to offer is school-based therapy. Though many of our clients take...
4 min read


Back to School Anxiety: Support for Transitional Times
Understanding the Patterns of Back to School Anxiety
8 min read


Helping Our Children Manage Anxiety with Empathy and Action
We can help our kids manage anxiety by understanding, listening, and examining our own anxiety.
8 min read


Adjusting and Maintaining Personal Boundaries for Our Health
Healthy boundaries serve as a protective force for all people, and especially for those working to manage anxiety and depression.
9 min read


Feelings Matter: Adjusting our Perspective and Inner Dialogue
When we give ourselves permission to feel the spectrum of emotions, we also can give ourselves permission to care for ourselves.
6 min read


Our Story: Reflections on our Past, Present, and Future
Like the lotus, some of the most beautiful things can come out of the darkest places.
5 min read


Surviving and Thriving in the Winter Months
This winter is going to be tough, but there are also so many opportunities to make this winter happy and memorable for you and your family.
7 min read


Self-Care in Times of Stress
Self-care in times of great stress will look different than times when stress is low.
8 min read


Self-Care for Parents
If self-care was as simple as putting on a live preserver, we would all be doing it.
8 min read
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