Do challenging emotions get the best of you? They can start running the show and make choices for you. They can choose isolation instead of connecting, playing it safe instead of living fully, quick fixes instead of real solutions, procrastination over action, blaming others over claiming your power. You may even start believing the idea that things will never get better. As you get more discouraged, you may start ignoring the body, listening to the thoughts suggesting "just settle for less." These ideas are, well . . . quite frankly . . .simply wrong! But most people don't stop to inquire about the thoughts that go through their mind. After a while, these unexamined thoughts can turn into problems: * Troubling emotions like depression, irritability and anxiety * Low self esteem * Self defeating thoughts that stop you in your tracks * Relationship problems * Chronic health problems * Addictions * Procrastination and difficulty making decisions * Isolation from the people who care about you * Clutter You may seek relief with food, alcohol, over-work, shopping or drugs. You may attempt to feel good through artificial means. These attempts to feel good may fall short and you end up feeling worse than before. We will work together to identify, examine and challenge the thoughts that close doors. You'll be surprised how easy and safe and enjoyable the process may be. There is convincing evidence that most people who have at least several sessions of psychotherapy are far better off than untreated individuals. One major study showed that: * 50% of patients improved noticeably after 8 sessions. * 75% of individuals in therapy improved by the end of 6 months. Perhaps you are ready to be one of those people? Give us a call. 503-342-2510. Gethelp@counseling-pdx.com