Play is a child’s natural language, a way they explore the world, express their feelings, and make sense of their experiences. But did you know that play can also be a powerful tool for healing? That’s where play therapy comes in — a therapeutic approach that uses the power of play to help children navigate emotional and behavioral challenges, develop coping skills, and reach their goals. But what exactly is play therapy? How does it work? And how can it benefit your child? Let’s break it down and demystify play therapy, so you can help your child thrive in “Demystifying Play Therapy: A Guide to Helping Your Child Thrive.”

What Is Play Therapy?

Play therapy is a structured, evidence-based approach that allows children to express themselves, explore their feelings, and learn new ways to deal with challenging situations — all through the medium they understand best: play. In a play therapy session, a trained therapist creates a safe and supportive environment filled with toys, games, art supplies, and other materials. The therapist then uses these tools to help the child express what they might not be able to articulate with words. Unlike traditional talk therapy, which relies heavily on verbal communication, play therapy meets children where they are developmentally. It’s especially helpful for younger kids who might not yet have the language skills or emotional maturity to explain their feelings and experiences. Instead of saying, “I’m scared” or “I’m angry,” a child in play therapy can show these emotions through their play, giving the therapist valuable insights into what they’re feeling and experiencing.

How Does Play Therapy Work?

During a play therapy session, the therapist observes the child’s play patterns, choices, and behaviors, which can provide a window into their inner world. Through play, the therapist helps the child recognize and process their emotions, develop problem-solving skills, and learn healthier ways to express themselves. The therapist might use specific techniques, like role-playing, storytelling, or art-making, to guide the child through these processes. This approach allows the child to experience therapeutic growth in a way that feels safe and natural to them.

What Are the Benefits of Play Therapy?

Play therapy can be incredibly beneficial for children facing a wide range of emotional, social, or behavioral challenges. It provides a safe outlet for children to express difficult emotions, such as sadness, fear, or anger, in a way that feels manageable and less overwhelming. Through play, children can practice and develop new skills for handling difficult situations, such as communication, patience, or frustration management. Over time, play therapy often enhances a child’s ability to articulate their feelings and thoughts. It can help boost a child’s confidence and self-worth by allowing them to successfully navigate challenges within the play environment. Additionally, involving parents or caregivers in the process helps foster a deeper understanding and stronger bond between them and their child.

Who Can Benefit from Play Therapy?

Play therapy is particularly effective for children between the ages of 3 and 12, but it can also benefit older children and even adults in some cases. It is often used to address a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, trauma, loss, ADHD, autism, family changes, and social challenges like bullying or difficulty making friends. If your child is struggling with any of these issues, or if they’ve been through a difficult experience, play therapy might be a valuable tool to help them cope and flourish. It offers a gentle and supportive way for children to work through their emotions and learn to manage their behaviors more effectively.

What to Expect in a Play Therapy Session

During the initial sessions, the therapist will typically spend time getting to know your child, building trust, and creating a safe environment. The therapist may use different types of play, depending on your child’s interests and needs. As sessions progress, you may notice changes in your child’s mood, behavior, or coping skills. It’s also common for play therapists to involve parents in the therapy process. This might mean discussing your child’s progress, learning new parenting strategies, or participating in special activities designed to strengthen the parent-child bond. Remember, you are a crucial part of your child’s healing journey, and your involvement can make a big difference.

Supporting Your Child with Northside Mental Health

At Northside Mental Health in Indianapolis, we understand that every child is unique and deserves compassionate, individualized care. Our warm and welcoming therapists are here to provide support through play therapy and other evidence-based treatments tailored to meet your child’s needs. Whether your child is struggling with anxiety, trauma, behavioral issues, or other challenges, we are committed to helping them find their way to emotional well-being. We offer a comfortable, calming space where your child can feel safe to explore, express, and heal. Reach out to us today to learn more about our play therapy services and how we can help your child thrive!

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Becoming a mother is often described as one of the most profound and life-changing experiences a woman can have. It’s a time filled with joy, excitement, and anticipation. However, for some women, the postpartum period can also be a time of unexpected emotional and psychological challenges. While postpartum depression (PPD) is widely recognized and discussed, another condition that affects new mothers but is less commonly understood is Postpartum Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Postpartum OCD is a form of obsessive-compulsive disorder that emerges after the birth of a child. It is characterized by intrusive, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that are performed in an attempt to alleviate the distress caused by these thoughts. Understanding the signs, causes, and treatment options for Postpartum OCD is crucial for new mothers and their families to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable postpartum experience.

What Is Postpartum OCD?

Postpartum OCD is a subtype of OCD that occurs in the postpartum period, typically within the first few months after childbirth. While OCD is a condition that can develop at any point in life, the hormonal, emotional, and psychological changes that accompany childbirth can trigger or exacerbate OCD symptoms in some women. The obsessions in Postpartum OCD often revolve around fears of harm coming to the baby. Common obsessive thoughts often include fears of accidentally harming the baby or irrational concerns about the baby’s safety. These thoughts are often very intrusive, and can cause significant stress and anxiety for a new mother.

In response to these obsessions, mothers with Postpartum OCD may engage in compulsive behaviors to try to reduce their anxiety or prevent these fears from occurring. For example, a mother might repeatedly check on her sleeping baby to ensure they are breathing or avoid certain activities out of fear that they could inadvertently harm the baby. Although many of these things are good practice when taken to the extreme they can become quite debilitating. 

The Prevalence of Postpartum OCD

Postpartum OCD is more common than many people realize. Research suggests that between 2% and 9% of new mothers experience Postpartum OCD, although some studies estimate the prevalence to be even higher. Despite its relative frequency, Postpartum OCD is often underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed, in part because the symptoms can be mistaken for typical postpartum anxiety or the “baby blues.” It is important to distinguish between normal postpartum concerns and Postpartum OCD. While it is natural for new mothers to worry about their baby’s well-being, the key difference with Postpartum OCD is the intensity and persistence of the thoughts, as well as the presence of compulsive behaviors that interfere with daily life.

Scientific Insights into Postpartum OCD

The exact cause of Postpartum OCD is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. Women with a personal or family history of OCD or other anxiety disorders may be at higher risk for developing Postpartum OCD. Additionally, the drastic changes that occur after childbirth are believed to be a significant factor in the development of postpartum OCD. In particular, fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels are thought to play a significant role in triggering or worsening OCD symptoms.

These hormonal changes can affect neurotransmitter systems in the brain, such as serotonin, dopamine, glutamate, and more. These neurotransmitters are crucial for mood regulation, reward/fulfillment, and memory. Research has also shown that stress plays a significant role in the development of OCD. The postpartum period is often a time of increased stress, as new mothers adjust to the demands of caring for a newborn, cope with sleep deprivation, and navigate changes in their identity and relationships. This heightened stress, combined with pre-existing vulnerabilities, can contribute to the onset of OCD symptoms.

The Impact of Postpartum OCD

Postpartum OCD can have a profound impact on a mother’s mental health and overall well-being. The intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors can be overwhelming and exhausting, leading to feelings of shame, guilt, and isolation. Many mothers with Postpartum OCD may fear that they are “going crazy”. They may also worry that others will judge them for their thoughts, which can prevent them from seeking help. The condition can also affect the mother’s ability to bond with her baby and enjoy the postpartum period. The constant anxiety and preoccupation with obsessive thoughts can interfere with the mother’s ability to relax and be present with her child.

Treatment and Support for Postpartum OCD

The good news is that Postpartum OCD is a treatable condition. With the right support and interventions, most women can recover and go on to enjoy motherhood. Treatment for Postpartum OCD typically involves a combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most effective form of therapy for OCD, including Postpartum OCD. CBT helps individuals identify and challenge their obsessive thoughts and learn healthier ways to cope with anxiety. Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), a specific type of CBT, is particularly effective for reducing compulsive behaviors.

Support from loved ones and healthcare professionals is also crucial in the recovery process. New mothers with Postpartum OCD should be encouraged to seek help. They should not be made to feel ashamed of their condition. Early intervention can make a significant difference in the outcome. It can help mothers regain control of their thoughts and enjoy their time with their baby.

Northside Mental Health

Understanding and addressing Postpartum OCD is vital for the health and well-being of both mothers and their babies. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of Postpartum OCD, it’s important to seek professional help. At Northside Mental Health in Indianapolis, our warm and welcoming therapists are ready to provide the support and care you need. We offer a variety of mental health services. Our team of skilled clinicians specializes in evidence-based treatments for a range of mental health concerns, including postpartum disorders. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or a loved one, Northside Mental Health is here to guide you toward positive change and recovery. Don’t hesitate to reach out—support is just a phone call away.

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Aversion to sound, often known as hyperacusis or misophonia, is a condition where everyday sounds can become unbearable. For those who suffer from this sound aversion, simple noises like chewing, typing, or even breathing can trigger intense discomfort or emotional reactions. Better understanding this condition can assist in finding ways to manage it to help improve quality of life. Let’s take a deeper look into understanding and managing aversion to sound in this blog: 

What is Aversion to Sound?

Aversion to sound encompasses two related but distinct conditions, hyperacusis and misophonia. Hyperacusis is a heightened sensitivity to certain frequencies and volumes of sound, where normal environmental sounds are perceived as excessively loud or painful. It often results from damage to the auditory system, such as from loud noise exposure, head injury, or certain medical conditions. Misophonia involves a strong emotional reaction to specific sounds, typically those associated with human behavior, like chewing, sniffing, or tapping. Unlike hyperacusis, the response in misophonia is more about annoyance and anger rather than pain.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Symptoms of sound eversion can vary widely but generally includes physical discomfort such as pain or a feeling of pressure in the ears when exposed to certain sounds. Emotional reactions like irritability, anxiety, or anger triggered by specific noises are also common. This can lead to avoidance behaviors where individuals steer clear of places or situations where problematic sounds are likely to occur. This avoidance behavior can ultimately impact quality of life as individuals try to keep away from these problematic situations

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of aversion to sound is not fully understood, but several factors are known to contribute to this aversion. Genetics are believed to play a role, suggesting a hereditary component to sound sensitivity. Neurological conditions like tinnitus, migraines, and autism spectrum disorder are also associated with hyperacusis and misophonia. Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, and trauma are known to exacerbate sensitivity to sound. Additionally, environmental factors, including prolonged exposure to loud noises or certain medications, can damage the auditory system, leading to hyperacusis.

Diagnosis and Assessment

If you suspect you have an aversion to sound, it’s essential to seek a professional diagnosis. An audiologist or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist can conduct tests to evaluate your hearing and sensitivity to sounds. Psychological assessments may also be necessary to understand any emotional triggers associated with misophonia.

Management Strategies and Treatment

Managing aversion to sound involves a combination of strategies tailored to the needs of each individual. Sound therapy  can be an effective tool. Sound therapy involves gradual exposure to a range of sounds at different volumes to help desensitize the auditory system to problematic sounds. This exposure can be achieved in a variety of ways including the use of white noise machines, hearing aids that emit soft background sounds, or specific sound-based therapies provided by professionals. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is another valuable approach.

It helps individuals change their thought patterns and behaviors, this is particularly beneficial for altering emotional responses to triggering sounds. Techniques used in CBT might include relaxation training, mindfulness, and exposure therapy. Managing stress and anxiety is another crucial step as these conditions can exacerbate aversion to sound. Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga can help reduce overall stress levels. Additionally, Having a strong support system can make a significant difference in managing aversion to sound. Connecting with others who understand what you’re going through, whether through support groups, online forums, or therapy groups, can provide emotional relief and practical advice.

Living with Sound Aversion

Living with an aversion to sound can be challenging, but it’s possible to lead a fulfilling life with the right strategies and support. Acceptance is a crucial part of the journey. Acknowledging the condition and working proactively to manage it can improve your overall well-being. Creating a structured routine that incorporates sound management techniques, stress reduction practices, and regular self-care can provide stability and relief. Progress may be slow, but with persistence and the right approach, significant improvements are achievable.

Northside Mental Health

Aversion to sound is a complex condition that affects many aspects of daily life. By understanding its causes, recognizing symptoms, and implementing effective management strategies, individuals can manage their sensitivity and improve their quality of life. At Northside Mental Health, our dedicated mental health professionals are here to provide the quality care and support you need. If you are seeking a positive change in your life and need help managing aversion to sound or other mental health challenges, we are here to help! Contact Northside Mental Health today and take the first step towards a better, more comfortable life!

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Sex therapy is often misunderstood, surrounded by myths and misconceptions that can deter people from seeking help. Whether you’re experiencing sexual issues or simply looking to enhance your intimacy and relationship satisfaction, understanding the truths about sex therapy can be enlightening and empowering. Here, we will be debunking sex therapy myths and highlight the importance of choosing a certified professional.

Myth 1: Sex Therapy is Only for People with Serious Sexual Problems

Reality: Sex therapy is for anyone interested in improving their sexual health and intimacy, regardless of the severity of their issues. While it’s true that sex therapists often work with individuals and couples facing significant challenges, they also support those seeking to enhance their sexual experiences, better understand their desires, or navigate changes in their sexual relationships. From improving communication about sexual needs to exploring new dimensions of intimacy, sex therapy can benefit a wide range of clients.

Myth 2: All Sex Therapists are the Same

Reality: This myth can be particularly misleading and potentially harmful. The term “sex therapist” isn’t regulated, meaning anyone can call themselves a sex therapist without specialized training. However, certified sex therapists, especially those certified by the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT), have completed rigorous training in human sexuality. This certification ensures they are well-equipped to address various sexual issues and distinguish between normal and abnormal sexual behavior, which may be influenced by medical or mental health conditions. AASECT-certified therapists undergo extensive education and ongoing professional development, making them the gold standard in the field.

Myth 3: Sex Therapy is Just About Sex

Reality: While sex is a primary focus, sex therapy often addresses a wide array of emotional, psychological, and relational factors that influence sexual health and intimacy. Issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship dynamics, and communication challenges frequently arise in sessions. A certified sex therapist helps clients explore these areas, offering strategies to enhance overall well-being and intimacy beyond the physical aspects of sex.

Myth 4: Sex Therapy Involves Physical Contact

Reality: Sex therapy is a talk-based therapy. There is no physical contact or sexual activity between the therapist and the client during sessions. Instead, sessions focus on open dialogue, education, and developing strategies to improve sexual health and relationships. The safe, professional environment allows clients to discuss their concerns and goals without fear of judgment or inappropriate behavior.

Myth 5: You Need a Medical Problem to See a Sex Therapist

Reality: Sex therapy isn’t limited to addressing medical or physical issues. It also encompasses emotional and psychological aspects of sexual well-being, including relationship dynamics, communication, self-esteem, and sexual identity. Whether dealing with stress, relationship conflicts, or exploring alternative relationship styles, sex therapy can provide valuable support and guidance.

Myth 6: Sex Therapists Only See Clients with Sexual Issues

Reality: Sex therapists also work with individuals and couples exploring alternative relationship styles and those with sexual interests outside societal norms. This includes consensually non-monogamous relationships, polyamorous arrangements, kink-related interests, and LGBTQIA+ concerns. Certified sex therapists can help clients understand and accept their sexual interests, maintain physical and sexual safety in potentially risky situations, and determine the best relationship styles for their needs.

Myth 7: Sex Therapy Can Fix Any Sexual Issue

Reality: While sex therapy can address many issues, it is not a guaranteed fix for every problem. Some sexual issues may require a combination of medical, psychological, and relational interventions. A certified sex therapist can work collaboratively with other healthcare providers to create a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to each client’s unique needs.

Choosing the Right Sex Therapist

Given the unregulated use of the term “sex therapist,” it’s crucial to choose a certified professional. AASECT certification is a mark of excellence, indicating that the therapist has met high standards of education and training in human sexuality. This certification provides clients with confidence that they are working with a knowledgeable and ethical professional.

When selecting a sex therapist, consider the following:

1. Credentials: Look for AASECT certification or certification from other reputable organizations.
2. Experience: Seek a therapist with experience addressing your specific concerns or interests.
3. Comfort: Choose someone with whom you feel comfortable discussing intimate topics.
4. Approach: Ensure their therapeutic approach aligns with your values and goals.

Finding Support With Northside Mental Health

In conclusion, sex therapy is a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their sexual health and intimacy. By debunking common myths and emphasizing the importance of certification, we hope to encourage more individuals to seek the support they need. Whether facing significant challenges or simply looking to explore new dimensions of your sexuality, a certified sex therapist can provide the guidance and support necessary for a fulfilling and healthy sexual life.

For those seeking professional help, Northside Mental Health offers experienced and certified sex therapists who can assist you in navigating your sexual health and relationship needs with compassion and expertise. Reach out to Northside Mental Health to start your journey towards better sexual health and intimacy here today!

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Emotional abuse, especially from narcissistic individuals, can leave deep scars that impact self-esteem, trust, and overall mental health. Recognizing the signs of this abuse and understanding how to navigate the healing journey are essential steps toward reclaiming your life and well-being. Let’s take a deep dive into navigating healing from narcissistic and emotional abuse:

Understanding Narcissistic and Emotional Abuse

Narcissistic abuse is a form of emotional abuse perpetrated by individuals with antagonistic or narcissistic personalities. These individuals may or may not have Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), however, their diagnosis (or non-diagnosis) is not what is important. What matters is how the abuse you are experiencing is affecting your life and well-being. Victims of narcissistic abuse frequently experience gaslighting, where their reality is distorted, leading them to doubt their perceptions and feelings rather than the actual issue at hand. Emotional abuse can manifest in various forms, including verbal assaults, constant criticism, controlling behaviors, and isolation. The impact of such abuse is quite extreme, often resulting in anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a diminished sense of self-worth and self-trust, an inability to trust others, little to no confidence, and many other mental and physical health concerns. Many people don’t even realize how their physical health is being affected. Some people experience things such as sleep disturbances, high blood pressure, and auto-immune conditions.

The Impact of Narcissistic and Emotional Abuse

The aftermath of narcissistic and emotional abuse can be devastating on anyone. Victims often struggle with feelings of shame, guilt, confidence and confusion. Those who were in a relationship with a narcissist may find it difficult to trust others or themselves in the aftermath. Their self-esteem is also commonly severely damaged from dealing with the many negative narcissism and emotional abuse. The long-term effects can include difficulty forming healthy relationships, persistent fear or anxiety, and a permeating sense of unworthiness. Understanding the impact of this abuse is crucial in validating your experiences and recognizing the need for professional help. Healing from narcissistic and emotional abuse is not about erasing the past but rather, practicing radical acceptance and learning to navigate life in a way that prioritizes your well-being. A therapist who has experience working with individuals who have been affected by this type of abuse is crucial in the process of healing.

Steps to Healing

Through the process of counseling, a safe and supportive environment is created to aid in healing from narcissistic and emotional abuse. Working with a therapist who will validate your experience is a crucial first step in beginning to understand and heal your emotional scars. Learning how to establish and maintain healthy boundaries is another critical step. Establishing boundaries helps protect yourself from further abuse. This may involve limiting or cutting off contact with the abuser and learning to say no without guilt. With a therapist’s help developing and implementing these boundaries effectively can be more easily achieved. Emotional abuse often erodes self-esteem, so engaging in activities that promote self-worth and confidence, and surrounding yourself with supportive and positive people who affirm your value, are essential. Therapeutic exercises such as affirmations and self-compassion practices can also aid in rebuilding your self-esteem.

Northside Mental Health

Navigating healing from narcissistic and emotional abuse is a journey that requires patience, self-compassion, and professional support. It involves acknowledging the abuse, seeking help, setting boundaries, and rebuilding self-esteem. Northside Mental Health is dedicated to supporting individuals on this path to recovery. With the right help and resources, you can navigate this challenging journey and emerge stronger, more resilient, and empowered to live a life free from the shadows of abuse. Click HERE to contact Northside Mental Health today!

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by Lauren Harding, Eating Recovery Coach and Counseling Intern

The holiday season can bring a significant amount of joy; however, it also presents its fair share of challenges. There is an expectation that the next few months are the best time of the year, which can be especially daunting for those who struggle with mental health issues.

For individuals who struggle with eating disorders or disordered eating, the holidays pose unique difficulties. Between the strong emphasis on food, diet talk, and that uncle who comments on your weight each year, the holiday season may be something that you are dreading. The “busy-ness” of this time of year, lack of routine, social experiences, and painful memories can further exacerbate disordered eating, anxiety, or depressive symptoms.

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By Kate Fisch, LCSW

Because we stereotype individuals suffering with an eating disorder as teenage girls, adolescent boys with eating disorders often go overlooked.  This is further exacerbated by the fact that eating disorder commonly manifest differently in boys than they do in girls.  Typically, eating disordered girls describe an obsession with being thin and an irrational fear of gaining weight.  Indeed, eating disordered boys can also have similar focus but often their eating disordered goals are to increase muscle and achieve a more “chiseled” physique. This is sometimes referred to as “reverse anorexia” or “bigorexia.”  A physical “façade” reinforced by our sociocultural messages of masculinity.

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By Lauren Harding, Eating Recovery Coach

Often in eating disorder treatment, the eating disorder is interpreted as some outside entity, external from the individual struggling with an eating disorder. I view the eating disorder self a little bit differently. An old Cherokee Indian legend illustrates the most important battle of our lives between the good wolf and bad wolf inside of us. The wolf that ultimately wins is the one that we choose to feed. YOU are the one who has the power to either strengthen the eating disorder self or to defeat the eating disorder self, because the eating disorder is a part of YOU. You were born with a healthy core self that has been taken over by the eating disorder self over time. Clients typically describe the eating disorder self as a “monster that takes over” or the “demon inside of them”, I refer to the eating disorder self as ED- the abusive partner. The abusive partner, although toxic provides, a sense of stability for you. It promises a better future if you listen to it. It lures you in but continues to hurt you, while telling you that it will get better if you just stay. The longer you stay with an abusive partner, the stronger the abusive partner becomes. And ultimately, it is you that has the power to say goodbye to that abusive partner inside of you.

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By Lauren Harding, Recovery Coach

Disordered eating is NOT “less serious” than an eating disorder. And BOTH are deserving of support and treatment. Eating disorders are a pattern of behavioral, physical and psychological signs and symptoms that fit into the specific criteria outlined by the DSM. Disordered eating is a pattern of behavioral, physical and psychological signs and symptoms that do not clearly fit into a diagnosis outlined in the DSM. Disordered eating may be harder to detect due to a society that is obsessed with the pursuit of “wellness” and that celebrates disordered eating behaviors.

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