Tag Archives: support

March 25, 2012 · 8:56 pm

A Therapist’s Tote of Techniques

NEW BLOG SERIES!

I will be starting a new series “A Therapist’s Tote of Techniques” to share what I feel to be some of my most important and/or most used therapeutic techniques. I am looking forward to this series because most of these are simple, easy to learn techniques that anyone can apply. Another term for this concept is “tools in a toolbox.” I don’t know about the rest of you, but I just don’t carry around a tool box as much as I do my favorite tote bags. Men can substitute “tote” for the old fashioned “tool box” if needed! :)

Some Techniques and Categories to look forward to:

  • Managing emotions
  • Managing behaviors
  • Reflecting of feelings
  • Relaxation
  • Reframing
  • Cognitive Behavioral strategies
  • Boundary setting
  • Play Therapy Techniques

CREATING YOUR OWN TOTE BAG OF TECHNIQUES:

My goal is to share with you some basic techniques so you can fill your own “tote  of techniques” to use in your daily life. It’s important for me to communicate to my clients that one size does not fit all. This means that what technique worked for your neighbor’s kid will not necessarily work with yours! And what techniques one person uses may not be one you are comfortable using. Take behavior charts for example. I have heard some disagreements with the use of this tool as a means of behavior management, some from those

who do not think they work, and others who don’t find them to fit within their frame work of parenting style. My response: then don’t add that tool to your tote bag! There are many options available and you have to find what is right for you and your family.

Upcoming Post: Deep Breathing

The first technique to be featured is Deep Breathing! It seems simple, but it’s a very important one. I will talk about why it is so important, how it works, how to do it, and when and how to apply this technique. If you are not already following this blog and want to read future posts, please follow this blog via email, twitter, or facebook at http://www.facebook.com/KimsCounseling!

You may also like to read my post about behavior modification tools.

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February 22, 2012 · 2:58 am

Everybody Needs Somebody!

Today I had a personal issue come up and it was time to dial some friends for support asap. I needed someone who knew the history behind my circumstances, and someone who would listen and empathize, rather and help me to solve a problem. It got me to thinking about all the people in my support system I could choose to call and how important they are to us.

As parents, there are plenty of days when we feel overwhelmed, too busy, stressed, and in some kind of crunch. During these times, it sometimes feels like we are alone to face our stress. But the truth is, most of us have at least a short list of people we count on for different things in our lives and each one may offer something different to us than the others. For example, one friend may be a good listener when it comes to your marriage difficulties, while another friend may be better at helping with childcare crunches.

Identifying these people in our lives can be comforting in times of stress. Your list may be long or short, but having a list is the key. An easy exercise to do is list the names of people in your life that you consider supportive in some way. Then, describe how they are helpful and when you can call on them. Be sure to write these down because the act of writing and visually seeing your support network is important. I attached one below as an example.

Example of a Completed Support Network

If you find you don’t have much of a support network, then it is imperative you get one. Think about what relationships you can foster more, reseach local support groups and play groups, or make efforts to meet some other parents at your child’s daycare or school. A support system is important for your health and therefore, your child’s health!!

I would love to hear how this worked for you or if you have any other suggestions on this topic!

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