A Healthy Dose Of Western Psychology, Eastern Philosophy, Neuroscience, Mind-Body Wisdom, Spirituality, Self-Empowerment, Nutrition and Lifestyle Support, Coping Skills, Self-Help Tips + Practical Advice To Inspire Growth, Mastery Over Challenges And A Deeper Connection To Yourself And Others. From My Therapy Couch To Yours, With Love

LifeFix Rx Blog


LifeFix Rx Blog + #shrinkthinks

LifeFix Rx Blog + #shrinkthinks by leading Manhattan Therapist & Coach Kim Seelbrede provides tips and coping skills as well as practical advice from the therapy couch and other places. Kim Seelbrede is a licensed psychotherapist, EMDR Therapist and Relationship Expert in New York City, psychological counseling, CBT & DBT Therapy, Mindfulness, EMDR Therapy, Couples Therapy, Relationship Expert Advice, Panic Disorder Specialist, Clinical Supervision, Private Practice Building Consultations, Stress Expert. Kim Seelbrede is a New York City anxiety therapist, depression therapist, addictions specialist, eating disorders expert, self-esteem psychotherapist, relationship intensive marathon sessions, coaching, executive coaching, in Manhattan, New York City, Connecticut, Westchester, South Hampton, East Hampton, Sag Harbor. In her blog Life Fix Rx she provides expert advice, wisdom, psychological help, blog for mental health, stress, self-care, meditation, mindfulness, girl & female empowerment, beauty advice, anti-aging, hormone and health support, mood and anxiety help, lifestyle problems, gay and lesbian issues, power of intention, positivity, positive psychology, education, rehab resources, recovery support for individuals and families, abuse victims, neurobiology news, coping skills for self-harm and substance abuse, food as medicine, nutrition coaching, sexuality concerns, sex expert, sexuality, sex therapy, menopause, PMS, postpartum depression referrals.

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Psych Ed

Breaking Down Your Wall - Go Slow

Sensitive souls tend to wrap themselves up in layers, either symbolic or concrete, to avoid having their "true self" exposed. They fear being seen, criticized or somehow judged as wrong -- and the secret self has it's own life that operates just beneath the surface. Some individuals have a greater awareness of these "self parts" than others. The need to protect may come and go or be more heightened in certain circumstances, and not others. Many of my psychotherapy and counseling patients who have suffered childhood abuse or trauma may now, in their current lives, wear protective layers of clothing, or even gain weight in an effort to create a layer of protective armor. Some had parents who couldn't tolerate the now defended against parts of the self. Behaviors, such as addictions, acting out, lying, rage, eating disorders and avoidance serve similar functions -- to avoid, numb, hide, express and protect. These layers, also known as a “false self” were erected long ago to avoid painful issues such as abandonment, rejection, fear of intimacy, boundary violations and other forms of suffering.  

Do you now need these layers of protection, and how can you learn to gradually remove them to live a fuller and more authentic life? You may have chosen people in your current life who are similar to those in your past, and so the pattern continues. 

Mental health professionals such as psychotherapists and psychologists are highly-trained to treat these defense mechanisms with respect and care -- to never take away a defense without helping to replace it with one that is more adaptive for the patient. The "walls" that people create are there for a reason. If you're hurt or you've been wounded in the past, your need to protect yourself is real and valid. Your walls were created for a very good reason -- it was a solution to a problem, at the time. It may have been a form of survival. If boundaries have been violated, some form of protection was a good idea. 

In your current life, you may be operating with layers and walls that served you then, but may not be so helpful for you now. In reality, the layers of protection may be causing you more pain than relief -- the pain of isolation and the lack of connection to others leads to a muted life.  Important parts of your "self" remain unexpressed and hidden, from others as well as yourself.

Removing the layers of protection is easier said than done, and all those lovely quotes may leave you feeling like a failure. When is it safe to trust that it's okay to allow yourself to be "seen" and "known" by yourself and another?  Understanding and honoring the reason(s) why you developed these layers is a good first start. Begin with yourself first, and with great care and compassion. Accepting your flaws and imperfections makes you human. As we accept our limitations and imperfections they become neutralized. Remember, you are practicing. No plunging into the deep waters. Feeling raw and exposed should never be the goal. Too painful, so go slow. You have the opportunity to mature and develop healthy self-esteem and a fuller, more realistic view of yourself. You can begin to see how walls and layers of protection have the power to hijack and sabotage your life.  Slowly, when you are ready, you can begin to test these newly unearthed parts of yourself in the context of a relationship. Choose someone you feel safe with and can trust. The hidden "self parts" that you've worked so hard to hide may be the parts that others will embrace and love. Do you need help taking off your layers of protection? Find a therapist that you feel comfortable exploring the hidden parts of yourself. If you've experienced childhood trauma or abuse, I always recommend working with a professional trained to work with dissociation, trauma, anxiety, depression, dissociation or other symptoms that may be present.

Some of my patients have enjoyed reading Brene Brown’s book, The Gifts of Imperfection

Kimberly Seelbrede is a licensed Psychotherapist, EMDR Therapist and Consultant with a private practice in New York City. Her specialities include: EMDR therapy, psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, coaching, relationships, marital difficulties, divorce, parenting, career, professional performance enhancement, anxiety, panic, depression, loss/grief, adolescent psychotherapy, underachievement, perfectionism, eating disorders, addiction, substance abuse, sexuality, PTSD, trauma,  dissociation, stress reduction, transitions, life purpose, health concerns, women's issues, therapy for men, pain management, self-esteem and self-empowerment. Kim Seelbrede conducts psychotherapy sessions in person or therapy coaching online via Skype. If you would like more information on Psychotherapy, EMDR Therapy, Integrative Therapy or Coaching with Kim Seelbrede, LCSW click here.

To schedule a Consultation with Kim Seelbrede click here.

For Events, Workshops or Media Appearances click here.

To be released 2016: Memoir Of A Beauty Queen: Pretty This! By Kim Seelbrede

For #shrinkthinks or LifeFix Rx Blog

If you are a fan of social media find Kim Seelbrede on: Linkedin, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Google +, EMDRIA Find an EMDR Therapist, Psychology Today, Good Therapy, Urban Zen Foundation, EMDR Therapist Network, NYC EMDR & Integrative Therapy and www.kimseelbrede.com

Are You Involved With A Narcissist Or An Emotional Grown-Up?

Do you think or know that you have a narcissist in your life? If so, you are likely to have your share of questions about how to identify, manage, escape from, and avoid future entanglements with narcissistic people. As a psychotherapist, I work with couples and individuals who present with many symptoms of narcissistic abuse or describe patterns of emotional abuse in their primary relationships. It's heartbreaking to come to the realization that years, and even decades, have been spent under the rule of a tyrannical parent or partner. Parents, bosses and partners with narcissistic personality disorder or strong traits have the potential to powerfully and negatively impact your physical and emotional health and wellbeing. You may be traumatized, numb and shut-down from past experiences with family members. You may also find yourself repeating this pattern in your current relationships by seeking out narcissistic partners. And so the neurotic dance of repetition compulsion begins. 

Kimberly Seelbrede is a licensed Psychotherapist, EMDR Therapist and Consultant with a private practice in New York City. Her specialities include: EMDR therapy, psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, coaching, relationships, marital difficulties, divorce, parenting, career, professional performance enhancement, anxiety, panic, depression, loss/grief, adolescent psychotherapy, underachievement, perfectionism, eating disorders, addiction, substance abuse, sexuality, PTSD, trauma,  dissociation, stress reduction, transitions, life purpose, health concerns, women's issues, therapy for men, pain management, self-esteem and self-empowerment. Kim Seelbrede conducts psychotherapy sessions in person or therapy coaching online via Skype. If you would like more information on Psychotherapy, EMDR Therapy, Integrative Therapy or Coaching with Kim Seelbrede, LCSW click here.

To schedule a Consultation with Kim Seelbrede click here.

For Events, Workshops or Media Appearances click here.

To be released 2016: Memoir Of A Beauty Queen: Pretty This! By Kim Seelbrede

For #shrinkthinks or LifeFix Rx Blog

If you are a fan of social media find Kim Seelbrede on: Linkedin, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Google +, EMDRIA Find an EMDR Therapist, Psychology Today, Good Therapy, Urban Zen Foundation, EMDR Therapist Network, NYC EMDR & Integrative Therapy and www.kimseelbrede.com

Divorcing A Narcissist: How To Protect Yourself From Narcissistic Abuse

In my therapy practice, I work with many women and men who come to the realization that they are involved or married to a narcissist. As the veil lifts, and they begin to see things more clearly, the clean-up begins. Many of these individuals seem to have charmed lives; idyllic from afar, but once inside, it can be ugly. I'll give you a case example in a moment, but what's important to understand is that we are drawn to another for many, often over-determined reasons. The relationship is somehow familiar terrain for us. It's what we know best, perhaps rooted in an early family dynamic that gets played out again and again. Here's an example:

Kimberly Seelbrede is a licensed Psychotherapist, EMDR Therapist and Consultant with a private practice in New York City. Her specialities include: EMDR therapy, psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, coaching, relationships, marital difficulties, divorce, parenting, career, professional performance enhancement, anxiety, panic, depression, loss/grief, adolescent psychotherapy, underachievement, perfectionism, eating disorders, addiction, substance abuse, sexuality, PTSD, trauma,  dissociation, stress reduction, transitions, life purpose, health concerns, women's issues, therapy for men, pain management, self-esteem and self-empowerment. Kim Seelbrede conducts psychotherapy sessions in person or therapy coaching online via Skype. If you would like more information on Psychotherapy, EMDR Therapy, Integrative Therapy or Coaching with Kim Seelbrede, LCSW click here.

To schedule a Consultation with Kim Seelbrede click here.

For Events, Workshops or Media Appearances click here.

To be released 2016: Memoir Of A Beauty Queen: Pretty This! By Kim Seelbrede

For #shrinkthinks or LifeFix Rx Blog

If you are a fan of social media find Kim Seelbrede on: Linkedin, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Google +, EMDRIA Find an EMDR Therapist, Psychology Today, Good Therapy, Urban Zen Foundation, EMDR Therapist Network, NYC EMDR & Integrative Therapy and www.kimseelbrede.com

About Depression Therapy

People experience depression for many reasons and can be helped with a variety of treatments. Depression is a common condition, and according to NAMI, 25-30 million Americans suffer from depression. Generally, people who experience depression report feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, body aches and pains, low energy, and a lack of pleasure in daily activities and life. Everything may feel very difficult for the sufferer. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), symptoms of depression may include the following:

 

    Kimberly Seelbrede is a licensed Psychotherapist, EMDR Therapist and Consultant with a private practice in New York City. Her specialities include: EMDR therapy, psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, coaching, relationships, marital difficulties, divorce, parenting, career, professional performance enhancement, anxiety, panic, depression, loss/grief, adolescent psychotherapy, underachievement, perfectionism, eating disorders, addiction, substance abuse, sexuality, PTSD, trauma,  dissociation, stress reduction, transitions, life purpose, health concerns, women's issues, therapy for men, pain management, self-esteem and self-empowerment. Kim Seelbrede conducts psychotherapy sessions in person or therapy coaching online via Skype. If you would like more information on Psychotherapy, EMDR Therapy, Integrative Therapy or Coaching with Kim Seelbrede, LCSW click here.

    To schedule a Consultation with Kim Seelbrede click here.

    For Events, Workshops or Media Appearances click here.

    To be released 2016: Memoir Of A Beauty Queen: Pretty This! By Kim Seelbrede

    For #shrinkthinks or LifeFix Rx Blog

    If you are a fan of social media find Kim Seelbrede on: Linkedin, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Google +, EMDRIA Find an EMDR Therapist, Psychology Today, Good Therapy, Urban Zen Foundation, EMDR Therapist Network, NYC EMDR & Integrative Therapy and www.kimseelbrede.com

    About Social Anxiety Disorder

    Social anxiety may be cramping your style and even seriously impacting the quality of your life more than you know. Sometimes naming it can be a huge relief, especially if you can finally take steps towards getting the help that you need. Social anxiety is a fear of social situations and interactions with others that leads to self-consciousness, poor self-esteem, feelings of inferiority and negative self-evaluation and judgment. People with social anxiety disorder experience fear and have excessive concern about being judged negatively by others, which leads to inhibitions, embarrassment, shame and humiliation as well as avoidance of interpersonal experiences and situations. Sadly, left untreated, the solution of avoiding social situations and turning to

    Kimberly Seelbrede is a licensed Psychotherapist, EMDR Therapist and Consultant with a private practice in New York City. Her specialities include: EMDR therapy, psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, coaching, relationships, marital difficulties, divorce, parenting, career, professional performance enhancement, anxiety, panic, depression, loss/grief, adolescent psychotherapy, underachievement, perfectionism, eating disorders, addiction, substance abuse, sexuality, PTSD, trauma,  dissociation, stress reduction, transitions, life purpose, health concerns, women's issues, therapy for men, pain management, self-esteem and self-empowerment. Kim Seelbrede conducts psychotherapy sessions in person or therapy coaching online via Skype. If you would like more information on Psychotherapy, EMDR Therapy, Integrative Therapy or Coaching with Kim Seelbrede, LCSW click here.

    To schedule a Consultation with Kim Seelbrede click here.

    For Events, Workshops or Media Appearances click here.

    To be released 2016: Memoir Of A Beauty Queen: Pretty This! By Kim Seelbrede

    For #shrinkthinks or LifeFix Rx Blog

    If you are a fan of social media find Kim Seelbrede on: Linkedin, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Google +, EMDRIA Find an EMDR Therapist, Psychology Today, Good Therapy, Urban Zen Foundation, EMDR Therapist Network, NYC EMDR & Integrative Therapy and www.kimseelbrede.com

    About Psychodynamic Psychotherapy

    Psychodynamic psychotherapy, also referred to as insight-oriented or depth therapy, is an approach in which client and therapist work together to explore and resolve the underlying and often unconscious issues and conflicts that create difficulties in their lives. Because this approach focuses on the recognition and resolution of the root causes of clients’ problems, much of it being unconscious, it is a powerful technique for facilitating true and lasting change in addition to providing symptomatic relief.

    Kimberly Seelbrede is a licensed Psychotherapist, EMDR Therapist and Consultant with a private practice in New York City. Her specialities include: EMDR therapy, psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, coaching, relationships, marital difficulties, divorce, parenting, career, professional performance enhancement, anxiety, panic, depression, loss/grief, adolescent psychotherapy, underachievement, perfectionism, eating disorders, addiction, substance abuse, sexuality, PTSD, trauma,  dissociation, stress reduction, transitions, life purpose, health concerns, women's issues, therapy for men, pain management, self-esteem and self-empowerment. Kim Seelbrede conducts psychotherapy sessions in person or therapy coaching online via Skype. If you would like more information on Psychotherapy, EMDR Therapy, Integrative Therapy or Coaching with Kim Seelbrede, LCSW click here.

    To schedule a Consultation with Kim Seelbrede click here.

    For Events, Workshops or Media Appearances click here.

    To be released 2016: Memoir Of A Beauty Queen: Pretty This! By Kim Seelbrede

    For #shrinkthinks or LifeFix Rx Blog

    If you are a fan of social media find Kim Seelbrede on: Linkedin, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Google +, EMDRIA Find an EMDR Therapist, Psychology Today, Good Therapy, Urban Zen Foundation, EMDR Therapist Network, NYC EMDR & Integrative Therapy and www.kimseelbrede.com

    About Phobia Therapy

    Phobias are a common form of psychological disorder and distress. Generally defined as irrational fears about objects or situations, people tend to see their phobias as unreasonable, but feel incapable of giving up the fear or confronting the situation head on. Not all phobias are severe enough to impact the quality of one's life, but some are. There are many ways to treat a phobia, and some treatment methods are much more effective than others. Most people have certain things or situations that create discomfort, but are still able to carry on with the daily activities of life. Individuals with phobias or a specific phobia have intense, irrational fears, and will experience great distress that disrupts their life, avoiding the object or situation altogether. Phobias can be categorized into three types:

    Kimberly Seelbrede is a licensed Psychotherapist, EMDR Therapist and Consultant with a private practice in New York City. Her specialities include: EMDR therapy, psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, coaching, relationships, marital difficulties, divorce, parenting, career, professional performance enhancement, anxiety, panic, depression, loss/grief, adolescent psychotherapy, underachievement, perfectionism, eating disorders, addiction, substance abuse, sexuality, PTSD, trauma,  dissociation, stress reduction, transitions, life purpose, health concerns, women's issues, therapy for men, pain management, self-esteem and self-empowerment. Kim Seelbrede conducts psychotherapy sessions in person or therapy coaching online via Skype. If you would like more information on Psychotherapy, EMDR Therapy, Integrative Therapy or Coaching with Kim Seelbrede, LCSW click here.

    To schedule a Consultation with Kim Seelbrede click here.

    For Events, Workshops or Media Appearances click here.

    To be released 2016: Memoir Of A Beauty Queen: Pretty This! By Kim Seelbrede

    For #shrinkthinks or LifeFix Rx Blog

    If you are a fan of social media find Kim Seelbrede on: Linkedin, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Google +, EMDRIA Find an EMDR Therapist, Psychology Today, Good Therapy, Urban Zen Foundation, EMDR Therapist Network, NYC EMDR & Integrative Therapy and www.kimseelbrede.com

    About EMDR Therapy + Trauma Resolution

    In order to understand EMDR, one needs to be clear about how trauma can affect the brain. When an individual experiences a traumatic event or multiple traumas they may develop what is known as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD as a response to the overwhelming event(s). When this occurs, the brain fails to successfully process the trauma leaving it "stuck" or "frozen" in the central nervous system. This often leads to numbness, dissociation, severe anxiety, depression, insomnia, addictions and physical complaints for the sufferer. In everyday life, the here and now, the body fails to recognize that the person is now safe and it reacts as though the danger is current, leaving the individual in a state of arousal.

    EMDR therapy as a treatment, is unique because it

    Kimberly Seelbrede is a licensed Psychotherapist, EMDR Therapist and Consultant with a private practice in New York City. Her specialities include: EMDR therapy, psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, coaching, relationships, marital difficulties, divorce, parenting, career, professional performance enhancement, anxiety, panic, depression, loss/grief, adolescent psychotherapy, underachievement, perfectionism, eating disorders, addiction, substance abuse, sexuality, PTSD, trauma,  dissociation, stress reduction, transitions, life purpose, health concerns, women's issues, therapy for men, pain management, self-esteem and self-empowerment. Kim Seelbrede conducts psychotherapy sessions in person or therapy coaching online via Skype. If you would like more information on Psychotherapy, EMDR Therapy, Integrative Therapy or Coaching with Kim Seelbrede, LCSW click here.

    To schedule a Consultation with Kim Seelbrede click here.

    For Events, Workshops or Media Appearances click here.

    To be released 2016: Memoir Of A Beauty Queen: Pretty This! By Kim Seelbrede

    For #shrinkthinks or LifeFix Rx Blog

    If you are a fan of social media find Kim Seelbrede on: Linkedin, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Google +, EMDRIA Find an EMDR Therapist, Psychology Today, Good Therapy, Urban Zen Foundation, EMDR Therapist Network, NYC EMDR & Integrative Therapy and www.kimseelbrede.com

    Men and Therapy

    Professional men living in New York City are often so busy with their lives that they forget to check in with themselves. Men often suffer in silence because of societal expectations about how they should behave. Asking for help is viewed or felt by men as shameful or unnecessary -- men are wired to fix things on their own. A man should be able to solve his own problems! The problem is, men often don't know what's wrong! They have trouble identifying important symptoms such as anxiety or depression and are unable to connect the dots back to emotional issues when they have complaints in the body. Research tells us that men's brains

    Kimberly Seelbrede is a licensed Psychotherapist, EMDR Therapist and Consultant with a private practice in New York City. Her specialities include: EMDR therapy, psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, coaching, relationships, marital difficulties, divorce, parenting, career, professional performance enhancement, anxiety, panic, depression, loss/grief, adolescent psychotherapy, underachievement, perfectionism, eating disorders, addiction, substance abuse, sexuality, PTSD, trauma,  dissociation, stress reduction, transitions, life purpose, health concerns, women's issues, therapy for men, pain management, self-esteem and self-empowerment. Kim Seelbrede conducts psychotherapy sessions in person or therapy coaching online via Skype. If you would like more information on Psychotherapy, EMDR Therapy, Integrative Therapy or Coaching with Kim Seelbrede, LCSW click here.

    To schedule a Consultation with Kim Seelbrede click here.

    For Events, Workshops or Media Appearances click here.

    To be released 2016: Memoir Of A Beauty Queen: Pretty This! By Kim Seelbrede

    For #shrinkthinks or LifeFix Rx Blog

    If you are a fan of social media find Kim Seelbrede on: Linkedin, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Google +, EMDRIA Find an EMDR Therapist, Psychology Today, Good Therapy, Urban Zen Foundation, EMDR Therapist Network, NYC EMDR & Integrative Therapy and www.kimseelbrede.com

    About Crisis Counseling

    If you find yourself in a crisis due to personal choices or circumstances outside of your control, you may feel shut-down, disconnected, helpless, anxious, irritable, depressed, angry or a mix of feelings, emotions or observable behaviors. A crisis is defined as a situation or event where a person feels overwhelmed and/or is unable to cope. In crisis counseling, a therapist works to provide mental health support to his or her client. Many events can trigger a crisis and can include: developmental issues (such as going through puberty), accidents, traumatic experiences, marital issues, infidelity or betrayal, job loss and stress, illness, major transitions and the death of a pet or loved one. Crisis therapy can help individuals deal with

    Kimberly Seelbrede is a licensed Psychotherapist, EMDR Therapist and Consultant with a private practice in New York City. Her specialities include: EMDR therapy, psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, coaching, relationships, marital difficulties, divorce, parenting, career, professional performance enhancement, anxiety, panic, depression, loss/grief, adolescent psychotherapy, underachievement, perfectionism, eating disorders, addiction, substance abuse, sexuality, PTSD, trauma,  dissociation, stress reduction, transitions, life purpose, health concerns, women's issues, therapy for men, pain management, self-esteem and self-empowerment. Kim Seelbrede conducts psychotherapy sessions in person or therapy coaching online via Skype. If you would like more information on Psychotherapy, EMDR Therapy, Integrative Therapy or Coaching with Kim Seelbrede, LCSW click here.

    To schedule a Consultation with Kim Seelbrede click here.

    For Events, Workshops or Media Appearances click here.

    To be released 2016: Memoir Of A Beauty Queen: Pretty This! By Kim Seelbrede

    For #shrinkthinks or LifeFix Rx Blog

    If you are a fan of social media find Kim Seelbrede on: Linkedin, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Google +, EMDRIA Find an EMDR Therapist, Psychology Today, Good Therapy, Urban Zen Foundation, EMDR Therapist Network, NYC EMDR & Integrative Therapy and www.kimseelbrede.com

    About Dialectical Behavior Therapy Or DBT

    Marsha M. Linehan developed  DBT in the 1990s to treat chronically suicidal and self-injurious individuals who she viewed as having pervasive emotion dysregulation or significant difficulty regulating their emotions. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a specialized form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) that balances acceptance and change. Cognitive Behavioral change strategies are blended with Eastern practices including mindfulness and meditation. The ability to apply DBT skills to other problems has broadened and has now been proven effective to treat a wide range of issues.

    Kimberly Seelbrede is a licensed Psychotherapist, EMDR Therapist and Consultant with a private practice in New York City. Her specialities include: EMDR therapy, psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, coaching, relationships, marital difficulties, divorce, parenting, career, professional performance enhancement, anxiety, panic, depression, loss/grief, adolescent psychotherapy, underachievement, perfectionism, eating disorders, addiction, substance abuse, sexuality, PTSD, trauma,  dissociation, stress reduction, transitions, life purpose, health concerns, women's issues, therapy for men, pain management, self-esteem and self-empowerment. Kim Seelbrede conducts psychotherapy sessions in person or therapy coaching online via Skype. If you would like more information on Psychotherapy, EMDR Therapy, Integrative Therapy or Coaching with Kim Seelbrede, LCSW click here.

    To schedule a Consultation with Kim Seelbrede click here.

    For Events, Workshops or Media Appearances click here.

    To be released 2016: Memoir Of A Beauty Queen: Pretty This! By Kim Seelbrede

    For #shrinkthinks or LifeFix Rx Blog

    If you are a fan of social media find Kim Seelbrede on: Linkedin, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Google +, EMDRIA Find an EMDR Therapist, Psychology Today, Good Therapy, Urban Zen Foundation, EMDR Therapist Network, NYC EMDR & Integrative Therapy and www.kimseelbrede.com

    Cutting-Edge Therapies For Trauma Treatment: EMDR Therapy, SE & Brainspotting

    If you have trauma-talk-fatigue, that is, you've talked your trauma experiences ad infinitum with little or no relief, it may be time to try something different. A trauma expert or specialist is a mental health professional who provides assistance to people who have experienced psychological trauma. Trauma therapists help people process traumatic experiences and develop coping methods for dealing with the aftermath of trauma, with the goal of achieving psychological stability and reduced symptoms. Psychotherapists who have expertise in trauma therapy may pursue specialized certifications and training to offer the best services to their clients. Many trauma therapists

    Kimberly Seelbrede is a licensed Psychotherapist, EMDR Therapist and Consultant with a private practice in New York City. Her specialities include: EMDR therapy, psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, coaching, relationships, marital difficulties, divorce, parenting, career, professional performance enhancement, anxiety, panic, depression, loss/grief, adolescent psychotherapy, underachievement, perfectionism, eating disorders, addiction, substance abuse, sexuality, PTSD, trauma,  dissociation, stress reduction, transitions, life purpose, health concerns, women's issues, therapy for men, pain management, self-esteem and self-empowerment. Kim Seelbrede conducts psychotherapy sessions in person or therapy coaching online via Skype. If you would like more information on Psychotherapy, EMDR Therapy, Integrative Therapy or Coaching with Kim Seelbrede, LCSW click here.

    To schedule a Consultation with Kim Seelbrede click here.

    For Events, Workshops or Media Appearances click here.

    To be released 2016: Memoir Of A Beauty Queen: Pretty This! By Kim Seelbrede

    For #shrinkthinks or LifeFix Rx Blog

    If you are a fan of social media find Kim Seelbrede on: Linkedin, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Google +, EMDRIA Find an EMDR Therapist, Psychology Today, Good Therapy, Urban Zen Foundation, EMDR Therapist Network, NYC EMDR & Integrative Therapy and www.kimseelbrede.com

    Boys Have Eating Disorders Too

    You may not know that your son is quietly trying to manage an eating disorder on his own. Yes, boys and men having eating disorders too. Most commonly associated with girls and women, boys are developing Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating Disorder, Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder and Rumination Disorder now, at alarming rates. A conservative estimate may be one in ten guys are struggling with body image and disordered eating issues.  Images in the media and a weight and image-obsessed culture has contributed to anxiety about weight for boys and young men. Both genders may try to alter their body towards some 'ideal' as they perceive it, and of course body image is not always the main contributing factor for individuals with an eating disorder. It's a complex problem. We know that ED's are complicated

    Kimberly Seelbrede is a licensed Psychotherapist, EMDR Therapist and Consultant with a private practice in New York City. Her specialities include: EMDR therapy, psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, coaching, relationships, marital difficulties, divorce, parenting, career, professional performance enhancement, anxiety, panic, depression, loss/grief, adolescent psychotherapy, underachievement, perfectionism, eating disorders, addiction, substance abuse, sexuality, PTSD, trauma,  dissociation, stress reduction, transitions, life purpose, health concerns, women's issues, therapy for men, pain management, self-esteem and self-empowerment. Kim Seelbrede conducts psychotherapy sessions in person or therapy coaching online via Skype. If you would like more information on Psychotherapy, EMDR Therapy, Integrative Therapy or Coaching with Kim Seelbrede, LCSW click here.

    To schedule a Consultation with Kim Seelbrede click here.

    For Events, Workshops or Media Appearances click here.

    To be released 2016: Memoir Of A Beauty Queen: Pretty This! By Kim Seelbrede

    For #shrinkthinks or LifeFix Rx Blog

    If you are a fan of social media find Kim Seelbrede on: Linkedin, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Google +, EMDRIA Find an EMDR Therapist, Psychology Today, Good Therapy, Urban Zen Foundation, EMDR Therapist Network, NYC EMDR & Integrative Therapy and www.kimseelbrede.com

    About Asperger's Syndrome: When Diagnosis Can Actually Help

    Asperger's Syndrome or AS shows up differently in individuals and is often missed or over-diagnosed in the mental health field. Previously, AS was the label for a pervasive developmental disorder at the highest end of the autism spectrum, and now recently, AS has been dropped and is recognized as part of the autistic spectrum or Autism Spectrum Disorder ASD. Many clinicians stick with the old because it seems more useful. Some of the characteristics expressed by Aspies are as follows:

    Kimberly Seelbrede is a licensed Psychotherapist, EMDR Therapist and Consultant with a private practice in New York City. Her specialities include: EMDR therapy, psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, coaching, relationships, marital difficulties, divorce, parenting, career, professional performance enhancement, anxiety, panic, depression, loss/grief, adolescent psychotherapy, underachievement, perfectionism, eating disorders, addiction, substance abuse, sexuality, PTSD, trauma,  dissociation, stress reduction, transitions, life purpose, health concerns, women's issues, therapy for men, pain management, self-esteem and self-empowerment. Kim Seelbrede conducts psychotherapy sessions in person or therapy coaching online via Skype. If you would like more information on Psychotherapy, EMDR Therapy, Integrative Therapy or Coaching with Kim Seelbrede, LCSW click here.

    To schedule a Consultation with Kim Seelbrede click here.

    For Events, Workshops or Media Appearances click here.

    To be released 2016: Memoir Of A Beauty Queen: Pretty This! By Kim Seelbrede

    For #shrinkthinks or LifeFix Rx Blog

    If you are a fan of social media find Kim Seelbrede on: Linkedin, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Google +, EMDRIA Find an EMDR Therapist, Psychology Today, Good Therapy, Urban Zen Foundation, EMDR Therapist Network, NYC EMDR & Integrative Therapy and www.kimseelbrede.com

    ADHD & Executive Functioning Explained

    If you or a loved one has recently received a diagnosis of ADHD or ADD, the terms executive functions (EF) or executive functioning deficit may have also surfaced in the conversation. What? If you didn't understand this term (and who would?), talk with your doctor, psychotherapist, psychologist, or psychiatrist about what this actually means, and how executive functioning may be compromised in individuals with ADHD. The YouTube video (all the way down, at the bottom of this post) offers a clear explanation of executive functioning. It's helpful to have examples and an understanding of how this problem may show up for you or someone you love in your everyday life, whether you're a child, adolescent or adult diagnosed with ADHD. This article in Scientific American explains how working with a therapist who practices evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or CBT may yield long-term benefits, providing strategies to improve social skills, reduce impulsivity and develop and reinforce positive habits that last. Some individuals find it helpful to work with an expert ADD coach who can help them manage the many aspects of their lives. Parents are reluctant to have their child diagnosed for plenty of good reasons. I get that. However, left untreated, kids with ADD & ADHD are vulnerable to having long-term self-esteem difficulties as well as the potential to abuse substances.

    Kimberly Seelbrede is a licensed Psychotherapist, EMDR Therapist and Consultant with a private practice in New York City. Her specialities include: EMDR therapy, psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, coaching, relationships, marital difficulties, divorce, parenting, career, professional performance enhancement, anxiety, panic, depression, loss/grief, adolescent psychotherapy, underachievement, perfectionism, eating disorders, addiction, substance abuse, sexuality, PTSD, trauma,  dissociation, stress reduction, transitions, life purpose, health concerns, women's issues, therapy for men, pain management, self-esteem and self-empowerment. Kim Seelbrede conducts psychotherapy sessions in person or therapy coaching online via Skype. If you would like more information on Psychotherapy, EMDR Therapy, Integrative Therapy or Coaching with Kim Seelbrede, LCSW click here.

    To schedule a Consultation with Kim Seelbrede click here.

    For Events, Workshops or Media Appearances click here.

    To be released 2016: Memoir Of A Beauty Queen: Pretty This! By Kim Seelbrede

    For #shrinkthinks or LifeFix Rx Blog

    If you are a fan of social media find Kim Seelbrede on: Linkedin, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Google +, EMDRIA Find an EMDR Therapist, Psychology Today, Good Therapy, Urban Zen Foundation, EMDR Therapist Network, NYC EMDR & Integrative Therapy and www.kimseelbrede.com

    About Anger And Rage

    Anger. We all experience it. Sometimes we are afraid of our own angry feelings and It can be scary to be on the receiving end of someone else's rage. When communicated in a healthy manner, anger can serve to enhance relationships as well as improve our ability to master difficult situations. Sometimes anger is not so well managed leading to acts of violence and nasty outbursts.  Anger can also be expressed in passive ways. Simmering just beneath the surface, it manifests as passive aggressive, hostile behaviors or when it's out of one's awareness, it can lead to dangerous bouts of acting out. 

    Most therapists recognize anger as an emotion used to mask deeper feelings of hurt such as grief, shame or sadness. Anger management therapy can help people identify the deeper feelings behind anger. Often anger can be diffused when one recognizes other feelings driving it. However anger manifests, if not expressed in acceptable and effective ways, the potential for damage to important relationships is great. Poorly-managed anger can wreak your life. Anger management psychotherapy can help people identify triggers, unpack the source of the anger and also provide helpful strategies to avoid acting in destructive, harmful ways. Sometimes people have individual therapy sessions where insight-oriented therapy is combined with cognitive behavioral therapy to manage anger, while others may benefit from a group therapy approach. Anger management skill-building techniques can be very beneficial in relationships, the workplace and other stressful situations that have prompted hostile responses in the past.

    The most popular anger management model at present is based on cognitive behavioral therapy or CBT.  In this technique, clients record moments when anger is at its greatest, they then identify feelings or “hot thoughts” that drive anger, list reasons why such thoughts may or may not hold true, and then re-analyze their level of anger. Emotions are generally rated on a percentage basis.

    A person participating in CBT might start with a level 9-10 feeling of anger, and through this thoughtful process, bring the level down to a 4-5. One of the goals of CBT and anger management therapy is to help the participant learn to stop, think, and analyze their anger instead of the usual impulsive action responses that have led to destructive behaviors in the past. As people become more adept at CBT, they may be able to do this process on their own. Situations or “hot thoughts” that evoked anger before will be recognized and easier to dismiss in future triggering situations.

    CBT also incorporates relaxation techniques, which can help those learning anger management techniques diffuse anger. These exercises might include deep breathing and relaxation responses.

    As an option to clients willing to explore additional treatments, EMDR is very effective at helping people process and heal from the underlying sources of their anger such as those who had abusive, angry, frustrating or chaotic parents or caretakers. Diagnosis of underlying conditions causing excess anger like personality disorders, depression, anxiety disorders, or bipolar conditions must also be made to identify those people who might need medication to fully recover.

    Kimberly Seelbrede is a licensed Psychotherapist, EMDR Therapist and Consultant with a private practice in New York City. Her specialities include: EMDR therapy, psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, coaching, relationships, marital difficulties, divorce, parenting, career, professional performance enhancement, anxiety, panic, depression, loss/grief, adolescent psychotherapy, underachievement, perfectionism, eating disorders, addiction, substance abuse, sexuality, PTSD, trauma,  dissociation, stress reduction, transitions, life purpose, health concerns, women's issues, therapy for men, pain management, self-esteem and self-empowerment. Kim Seelbrede conducts psychotherapy sessions in person or therapy coaching online via Skype. If you would like more information on Psychotherapy, EMDR Therapy, Integrative Therapy or Coaching with Kim Seelbrede, LCSW click here.

    To schedule a Consultation with Kim Seelbrede click here.

    For Events, Workshops or Media Appearances click here.

    To be released 2016: Memoir Of A Beauty Queen: Pretty This! By Kim Seelbrede

    For #shrinkthinks or LifeFix Rx Blog

    If you are a fan of social media find Kim Seelbrede on: Linkedin, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Google +, EMDRIA Find an EMDR Therapist, Psychology Today, Good Therapy, Urban Zen Foundation, EMDR Therapist Network, NYC EMDR & Integrative Therapy and www.kimseelbrede.com

    Finding Therapy: Oh So Many Choices

    Are you looking for someone to talk to other than friends and family? If you're thinking therapy (seriously, maybe, finally?), then this article from The Huffington Post Healthy Living section, The Most Popular Kinds Of Therapy-And Why You Should Try One is a great starting point for someone who is contemplating psychotherapy, but doesn't have a clue about where to begin, or what they might need. While it is certainly not a complete offering of all the various types of therapies and schools of thought, it certainly gives a snapshot of some important therapy approaches such as Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, CBT, Group Therapy, Family Therapy and DBT Therapy and also describes the kinds of issues these therapies are best suited to target. If you already have some understanding of what your struggling with, then this article can make what can be a daunting process somewhat easier. Sometimes a consultation with a licensed psychotherapist or psychologist can help steer you in the right direction towards (or away from) the kind of therapist and style of psychotherapy that may be a good fit for you. Ultimately, finding a therapist

    Kimberly Seelbrede is a licensed Psychotherapist, EMDR Therapist and Consultant with a private practice in New York City. Her specialities include: EMDR therapy, psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, coaching, relationships, marital difficulties, divorce, parenting, career, professional performance enhancement, anxiety, panic, depression, loss/grief, adolescent psychotherapy, underachievement, perfectionism, eating disorders, addiction, substance abuse, sexuality, PTSD, trauma,  dissociation, stress reduction, transitions, life purpose, health concerns, women's issues, therapy for men, pain management, self-esteem and self-empowerment. Kim Seelbrede conducts psychotherapy sessions in person or therapy coaching online via Skype. If you would like more information on Psychotherapy, EMDR Therapy, Integrative Therapy or Coaching with Kim Seelbrede, LCSW click here.

    To schedule a Consultation with Kim Seelbrede click here.

    For Events, Workshops or Media Appearances click here.

    To be released 2016: Memoir Of A Beauty Queen: Pretty This! By Kim Seelbrede

    For #shrinkthinks or LifeFix Rx Blog

    If you are a fan of social media find Kim Seelbrede on: Linkedin, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Google +, EMDRIA Find an EMDR Therapist, Psychology Today, Good Therapy, Urban Zen Foundation, EMDR Therapist Network, NYC EMDR & Integrative Therapy and www.kimseelbrede.com

    About Addictions Compulsions Treatment

    Addictions and compulsions refer to those instances where these problem behaviors disrupt an individual’s ability to function and lead a normal life. In fact, compulsions and addictions can be debilitating or become destructive if left untreated, for the individual as well as his/her family, friends, and others. Addictions are not limited to biochemical substances such as alcohol, cocaine or nicotine. In fact, people may experience behavioral addictions that reduce the capacity for a healthy life such as eating, pornography, masturbation, video games, texting, shopping and gambling.  These behaviors are particularly problematic because they provide the opportunity for immediate reward with a fast feedback that reinforces the problem behavior. Gambling is an example of a potential activity that can quickly turn from a fun pastime into a compulsive pursuit of reward. The result is the individual becomes increasingly unable to disengage from the activity. The consequences of problem gambling can

    Kimberly Seelbrede is a licensed Psychotherapist, EMDR Therapist and Consultant with a private practice in New York City. Her specialities include: EMDR therapy, psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, coaching, relationships, marital difficulties, divorce, parenting, career, professional performance enhancement, anxiety, panic, depression, loss/grief, adolescent psychotherapy, underachievement, perfectionism, eating disorders, addiction, substance abuse, sexuality, PTSD, trauma,  dissociation, stress reduction, transitions, life purpose, health concerns, women's issues, therapy for men, pain management, self-esteem and self-empowerment. Kim Seelbrede conducts psychotherapy sessions in person or therapy coaching online via Skype. If you would like more information on Psychotherapy, EMDR Therapy, Integrative Therapy or Coaching with Kim Seelbrede, LCSW click here.

    To schedule a Consultation with Kim Seelbrede click here.

    For Events, Workshops or Media Appearances click here.

    To be released 2016: Memoir Of A Beauty Queen: Pretty This! By Kim Seelbrede

    For #shrinkthinks or LifeFix Rx Blog

    If you are a fan of social media find Kim Seelbrede on: Linkedin, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Google +, EMDRIA Find an EMDR Therapist, Psychology Today, Good Therapy, Urban Zen Foundation, EMDR Therapist Network, NYC EMDR & Integrative Therapy and www.kimseelbrede.com

    About Co-Occurring Disorders

    When clients present with addictions and substance abuse, we typically find that other problems exist in addition to the substances and behaviors, and are part of a larger, more complex picture. Substance and process addictions are often the solution that clients use to manage a range of emotional states as well as early traumas.  Co-occurring disorders or COD refers to mental health problems that are combined with alcohol or substance abuse. The addiction or substance use aspect is often used to self-medicate a mental health issue such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, Asperger's, PTSD and personality disorders. Common examples of COD's include alcohol addiction with panic disorder, poly-substance use with schizophrenia and personality disorders such as Borderline Personality Disorder or BPD and major depression or Bipolar disorder with cocaine abuse. It's not uncommon for individuals to have more than two disorders such as

    Kimberly Seelbrede is a licensed Psychotherapist, EMDR Therapist and Consultant with a private practice in New York City. Her specialities include: EMDR therapy, psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, coaching, relationships, marital difficulties, divorce, parenting, career, professional performance enhancement, anxiety, panic, depression, loss/grief, adolescent psychotherapy, underachievement, perfectionism, eating disorders, addiction, substance abuse, sexuality, PTSD, trauma,  dissociation, stress reduction, transitions, life purpose, health concerns, women's issues, therapy for men, pain management, self-esteem and self-empowerment. Kim Seelbrede conducts psychotherapy sessions in person or therapy coaching online via Skype. If you would like more information on Psychotherapy, EMDR Therapy, Integrative Therapy or Coaching with Kim Seelbrede, LCSW click here.

    To schedule a Consultation with Kim Seelbrede click here.

    For Events, Workshops or Media Appearances click here.

    To be released 2016: Memoir Of A Beauty Queen: Pretty This! By Kim Seelbrede

    For #shrinkthinks or LifeFix Rx Blog

    If you are a fan of social media find Kim Seelbrede on: Linkedin, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Google +, EMDRIA Find an EMDR Therapist, Psychology Today, Good Therapy, Urban Zen Foundation, EMDR Therapist Network, NYC EMDR & Integrative Therapy and www.kimseelbrede.com

    About Anxiety Disorders

    You don't have to suffer in silence or avoid the many aspects of your life that were once fulfilling. Asking for help can cause anxiety for sure, but finding the right therapist and therapeutic options can end or greatly reduce your suffering. Anxiety can be as problematic as background noise in your life or it can be truly debilitating -- interfering with relationships, work, leisure, family time and social experiences. Life can become small and restricted for individuals trying to tame their symptoms of panic and chronic anxiety. How do you know when to seek treatment for your anxiety? When it's interfering with the quality of your life and you're spending your days managing your symptoms. When you are experiencing panic attacks, it's very important to enter therapy or counseling as panic can easily lead to avoidance of situations and

    Kimberly Seelbrede is a licensed Psychotherapist, EMDR Therapist and Consultant with a private practice in New York City. Her specialities include: EMDR therapy, psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, coaching, relationships, marital difficulties, divorce, parenting, career, professional performance enhancement, anxiety, panic, depression, loss/grief, adolescent psychotherapy, underachievement, perfectionism, eating disorders, addiction, substance abuse, sexuality, PTSD, trauma,  dissociation, stress reduction, transitions, life purpose, health concerns, women's issues, therapy for men, pain management, self-esteem and self-empowerment. Kim Seelbrede conducts psychotherapy sessions in person or therapy coaching online via Skype. If you would like more information on Psychotherapy, EMDR Therapy, Integrative Therapy or Coaching with Kim Seelbrede, LCSW click here.

    To schedule a Consultation with Kim Seelbrede click here.

    For Events, Workshops or Media Appearances click here.

    To be released 2016: Memoir Of A Beauty Queen: Pretty This! By Kim Seelbrede

    For #shrinkthinks or LifeFix Rx Blog

    If you are a fan of social media find Kim Seelbrede on: Linkedin, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Google +, EMDRIA Find an EMDR Therapist, Psychology Today, Good Therapy, Urban Zen Foundation, EMDR Therapist Network, NYC EMDR & Integrative Therapy and www.kimseelbrede.com