Trans in America, Part 1: The Rise of LGBTQ+ Hate Crimes and Anti-Trans Legislation Since 2020

There’s a significant rise in anti-LGBTQ+ hate crimes and anti-transgender laws in recent years, which has sparked alarm among advocacy groups, mental health professionals, and the broader public. Studies show that individuals who experience hate-based violence or discrimination experience more mental health issues and PTSD. For transgender individuals, this trauma is compounded by unique social and medical stressors, like discrimination in healthcare, employment, and social settings. In this blog, we’ll explore the key data, trends, and implications of these developments, as well as the potential impact on the broader LGBTQ+ community.

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brainspotting, trauma, intensives Sara Walter Shihdanian brainspotting, trauma, intensives Sara Walter Shihdanian

Brainspotting and Its Many Uses

Brainspotting is a versatile and powerful therapeutic tool that offers profound healing for a wide range of issues. Whether it's trauma, anxiety, depression, performance enhancement, chronic pain, or substance abuse, Brainspotting provides a unique and effective approach to therapy. The journey to healing and self-discovery can begin with a simple shift in where you look.

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Nurturing Your Sensitivity: Self-Care Tips for Highly Sensitive People

Being a highly sensitive person (HSP) is like having a finely tuned antenna for the world around you. This type of neurodivergence allows you pick up on subtleties that others might miss, to feel deeply, and often find beauty and meaning in everyday experiences. Yet, being so finely attuned can also mean facing challenges like overwhelm and overstimulation more intensely and more often than others might. Hear are some ways to enhance self-care as a Highly Sensitive Person that help prevent burn our and protect your unique gifts.

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brainspotting, trauma, intensives, anxiety Sara Walter Shihdanian brainspotting, trauma, intensives, anxiety Sara Walter Shihdanian

Uncovering Calm: How Brainspotting Helps Heal Anxiety

In a world where anxiety can often feel like an unwelcome yet constant companion, finding effective, innovative approaches to healing is more important than ever. One such approach is Brainspotting (BSP), a relatively new but profoundly impactful therapy that is proving to be a powerful tool in the battle against anxiety, often leaving clients with an accelerated sense of lasting relief.

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brainspotting, trauma, intensives, relationships Sara Walter Shihdanian brainspotting, trauma, intensives, relationships Sara Walter Shihdanian

Boundaries and Relational Trauma

Boundaries are essential for maintaining a strong sense of self and healthy, balanced relationships. However, for individuals who have experienced complex or relational trauma, establishing and maintaining boundaries can be particularly challenging. This post explores the intricate relationship between boundaries and trauma, shedding light on why boundaries are crucial for healing and how trauma can impact them.

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What’s the Difference Between Transgender and Non-Binary Genders?

The way we talk about gender identity has become more detailed and inclusive, reflecting a broader understanding of how people experience and express themselves. While they both fall under gender diversity, they represent unique identities and experiences. Let's dive into what makes them each unique and how we can all better understand and support each other.

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Understanding Highly Sensitive People: Traits, Challenges, and Strengths

In 1996, the term "highly sensitive person" was coined to for those who process information deeply, react strongly to emotions in themselves or others, and are acutely attuned to their surroundings. It's not about being overly fragile or weak, but instead this form of neurodiversity highlights a finely tuned nervous system that catches subtleties most others happen to miss.

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brainspotting, trauma, intensives Sara Walter Shihdanian brainspotting, trauma, intensives Sara Walter Shihdanian

What’s the difference between EMDR and Brainspotting?

Brainspotting and EMDR have been making waves for their powerful ability to help people heal from traumatic experiences, dysfunctional and abusive relationships, and to level up their goals. While both have similar components and orientations, they also have unique approaches and mechanisms. This helps explain which might be the better fit for you and your therapeutic situation.

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Embracing Your Authentic Self: A Journey Through Trauma, Transition, and Triumph

Embracing our most authentic selves may come with many challenges like trauma, gender transition, and the LGBTQIA+ experience. But challenge is also where we learn to champion over our trials and tribulations in order to build and thrive in a better fitting, more aligned, and more meaningful life.

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