by Kayleigh Monahan, LMSW

Summertime is always a time we look forward to, especially as New Yorkers. Gone are the gray days of winter and the cold and we welcome in the bright sun and warmth. The summer months are a great time to utilize the outdoors to help increase your coping skills and overall mental health.

The National Council for Mental Well-being lists a few ideas on their website, I’ve pulled a few of my favorites to help you start with some ideas!
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1) Relax outside for a change
While the appeal of the Air Conditioning and a comfortable seat inside can be great over the summer. As the sun begins to go down and the temperature outside cools you can take your book outside for a bit. The fresh air and change of scenery often help us to avoid getting stuck in a depressive mindset.

by Melissa Marconi, LMSW

​Why do I keep hearing about “identifying core values”? You might have noticed a rise in discussion around “identifying values” in social media/self-help platforms lately. Several treatment modalities such as CBT and ACT emphasized clarifying values to guide decision-making, set goals, and build on clients’ strengths. I have found when I incorporate values exploration into my practice, my clients become more self-aware and self-compassionate. They are often better able to identify practical goals and improve challenges connected to family, work, relationships, spirituality, and other life domains.

by Denise Wright, Ph.D, BCBA, LBA

​When we decide we want to change our behavior, we have turn our dream into an actual goal. The goal outlines the outcome in a specific measurable, achievable and relevant time-based format.
Specific- You must describe exactly what it is that you intend to do.
Measurable- The goal must include something that can be counted or quantified such as duration or frequency.
Achievable- The goal should be based on something you can do; it must be something that does not require vast change that would be insurmountable.
Relevant- The goal must be related to the dream- it must be something important and meaningful that will help you to accomplish the goal.
Time based- The goal must have a time frame by which the goal should be met to measure efficacy and hold one accountable. 

by Caroline Rudin, LMSW MS.Ed.

​These goals that we create are made with the best of intentions, we are feeling optimistic, excited even, to achieve these quests within the next three hundred sixty five days. Some people set goals to lose weight, redesign their spaces, or make all new friends to socialize with. Often, these goals are created using all-or-nothing language: I am going to lose thirty pounds. I am going to purchase all new furniture, paint, and decor. I am going to go out every single weekend. ​This wording leaves very little room for reality and the potentially difficulties we may encounter. What happens when this newfound hope turns into acknowledging that this goal may be out of reach?

Both inside and out of the therapy room I have met some of the most inspiring, compassionate, empathetic, passionate individuals, many of whom have expressed interest in joining the mental healthcare field. Most follow this interest with something like “How am I supposed to help others if I can’t fix myself?”