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    barbarajborsi@gmail.com | (443) 472-1048

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    Coping With Grief After Losing Health

    January 15, 2026

    If you or a loved one recently received an upsetting—possibly life-threatening—diagnosis, you might be feeling a mixture of shock, disbelief, fear, sadness, and anger. It’s completely normal for you to feel this way. Many people think of grief only in terms of the death of a loved one, but it can also stem from losing […]

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    Coping With Grief After Losing Health

    If you or a loved one recently received an upsetting—possibly life-threatening—diagnosis, you might be feeling a mixture of shock, disbelief, fear, sadness, and anger. It’s completely normal for you to feel this way. Many people think of grief only in terms of the death of a loved one, but it can also stem from losing your health (or from any other major life change).

    Coping With the Loss of Health

    Everyone processes grief differently, and you’ll need to find the approach that works best for you. With that said, you may want to try:

    • Speaking to a therapist – You may feel like you need to put on a brave face around your loved ones, but with an objective therapist, you can freely share the feelings you’re experiencing.
    • Joining a support group – Talking to other people who are in the same position as you can help you feel less alone. Plus, they may be able to share advice about what has helped them cope with their own diagnoses.
    • Accepting help – Your friends and family members love you and want to do whatever they can to help you through this difficult time. Many people turn down offers of assistance, not wanting to impose or be seen as weak. But with medical appointments and everything else you have on your plate right now, having someone cook a meal, run errands, or do your laundry could make life easier and give you more time to process your diagnosis. 

    Speak to a Therapist About Your Grief

    If you’re struggling to cope with the loss of your own health or a loved one’s health, we’re here for you. We have extensive experience helping patients heal from loss, and we can do the same for you. Contact us today and let us know that you’d like to schedule your first therapy session.

    Filed Under: health

    Coping With Grief After Losing Your Sense of Safety

    January 15, 2026

    If you’re having trouble feeling safe after experiencing a traumatic event or series of events—whether recently or in the distant past—you’re not alone. It’s very common for trauma to cause people to lose their sense of safety. In fact, studies show that traumatic experiences can alter the way that the brain and central nervous system […]

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    Coping With Grief After Losing Your Sense of Safety

    If you’re having trouble feeling safe after experiencing a traumatic event or series of events—whether recently or in the distant past—you’re not alone. It’s very common for trauma to cause people to lose their sense of safety. In fact, studies show that traumatic experiences can alter the way that the brain and central nervous system function, causing someone to feel insecure in various areas of their life.

    Fortunately, there are steps you can take to heal from your trauma, regain your sense of safety, and cope with any grief you may be experiencing. It’s important to consult with a therapist, since professionals have the training and experience needed to help guide you through this difficult time. With that said, you may also want to try:

    • Practicing mindfulness (focusing on the present moment)
    • Eating a nutritious diet
    • Incorporating exercise into your daily routine
    • Getting enough sleep
    • Spending time with loved ones
    • Joining a support group
    • Acknowledging to yourself and others that you need time to heal (even if you don’t disclose the specific details of your trauma)

    The Help You Need to Heal From Loss

    If you’ve experienced an event that destroyed your sense of safety, you may be feeling alone, but we can help. We have extensive experience treating grief and helping patients cope with loss, and we may be able to assist you, too. Contact us today, and we’ll gladly arrange a therapy appointment at a date and time that’s convenient for you.

    Filed Under: safety

    Debunking 3 Myths About Introverts

    January 15, 2026

    Are you an introvert? People with this personality type tend to feel more comfortable focusing on their inner thoughts and feelings rather than what’s going on around them, and they often feel re-energized after spending time on their own. Society often paints introverts as being shy, submissive individuals, but is this really true? Below, we […]

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    Debunking 3 Myths About Introverts

    Are you an introvert? People with this personality type tend to feel more comfortable focusing on their inner thoughts and feelings rather than what’s going on around them, and they often feel re-energized after spending time on their own.

    Society often paints introverts as being shy, submissive individuals, but is this really true? Below, we debunk three common myths about introverts.

    Myth #1: Introverts Are Antisocial

    People often assume that introverts don’t enjoy spending time with others, but that’s typically not the case. Many introverts enjoy socializing, but simply prefer hanging out with a few close friends versus a large crowd of people. That’s not to say that they can’t have fun at parties, too—they just may need to spend extra time on their own afterward to recharge their batteries.

    Myth #2: Introverts Are Self-Conscious

    Introverts are often portrayed as shy, nervous individuals who lack confidence. But, in reality, introverts can be incredibly confident—it just might require extra energy on their part. Many introverts describe feeling exhausted after being “on” for hours at a time.

    Myth #3: Introverts Aren’t Good Leaders

    People often assume that introverts won’t excel as leaders because leadership usually requires a great deal of social interaction. But introverts can be excellent leaders so long as they have the opportunity to recharge at the end of the day. In fact, because introverts tend to be creative thinkers, they can often develop innovative solutions to problems, a quality necessary for leadership.

    For More Information

    If you’d like to know more about introversion, I invite you to attend an appointment with me. I have experience working with introverts, and I’ll be happy to discuss the realities of introversion and how this condition is often misrepresented in today’s world. Contact me today to schedule a therapy session.

    Filed Under: introvert

    9 Daily Habits That Can Boost Happiness

    January 15, 2026

    Are you struggling to find joy in your everyday life? If so, you’re not alone. Many people have a difficult time achieving happiness, and yet it’s critical for our health and well-being—happiness can reduce stress, lower our blood pressure, improve our cardiovascular health, strengthen our immune systems, and help us sleep better. Some studies show […]

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    9 Daily Habits That Can Boost Happiness

    Are you struggling to find joy in your everyday life? If so, you’re not alone. Many people have a difficult time achieving happiness, and yet it’s critical for our health and well-being—happiness can reduce stress, lower our blood pressure, improve our cardiovascular health, strengthen our immune systems, and help us sleep better. Some studies show that being happy can even lead to us feeling less pain. Happiness can also cause us to feel more optimistic, enhance our productivity and problem-solving skills, and improve our relationships with family, friends, and coworkers.

    With all of that in mind, here are nine things you can do on a daily basis to help you start feeling happier:

    1. Exercise.
    2. Eat a diet rich in complex carbohydrates, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids (and avoid skipping meals and eating deep-fried or highly processed foods).
    3. Sleep for at least seven hours each night.
    4. Use breathing exercises whenever you begin feeling stressed.
    5. Put away items in the proper place to eliminate clutter in your home and workplace.
    6. Spend time with friends and family, whether in person or over the phone.
    7. Make a list of the things you’re grateful for.
    8. Smile even when you’re not feeling happy.
    9. Pay someone a compliment.

    It’s Time to Get Happy

    If you’re looking for ways to become a happier person, contact us today. We can provide you with customized advice on lifestyle changes you can make to boost your happiness. We look forward to meeting with you and helping you take the first step toward enhancing your quality of life.

    Filed Under: happiness

    30 Common Signs of Stress

    January 15, 2026

    Stress is a reaction that occurs when someone feels pressured or threatened, and while some amount of stress can energize you and motivate you to complete tasks, too much of it can negatively your mental and physical health. Even if you regularly experience stress, you may be unaware of the numerous ways in which it […]

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    30 Common Signs of Stress

    Stress is a reaction that occurs when someone feels pressured or threatened, and while some amount of stress can energize you and motivate you to complete tasks, too much of it can negatively your mental and physical health. Even if you regularly experience stress, you may be unaware of the numerous ways in which it can manifest itself. Here are 30 of the most common signs of stress:

    1. Headaches
    2. Blurred vision
    3. Eye soreness
    4. Tearfulness
    5. Jaw clenching
    6. Teeth grinding
    7. Chest pain
    8. Increased blood pressure
    9. Heartburn
    10. Difficulty breathing
    11. Indigestion
    12. Diarrhea
    13. Constipation
    14. Muscle aches
    15. Skin rashes
    16. Itchiness
    17. Sweating
    18. Nail biting
    19. Dizziness
    20. Fainting
    21. Insomnia
    22. Fatigue
    23. Sudden weight changes
    24. Menstrual cycle changes
    25. Racing thoughts
    26. Panic attacks
    27. Depression
    28. Feeling overwhelmed, restless, nervous, anxious, fearful, impatient, irritable, or angry
    29. Having trouble concentrating, making decisions, and remembering things
    30. Worsening of other mental health problems

    Offering Help With Stress Management

    Stress can take a serious toll on the mind and body—impacting your overall health and well-being—so if you’re experiencing any of the signs described above, it’s important to seek assistance. Luckily, you can turn to the skilled therapists at our practice for help with stress management. We’ll start by asking you about what causes you to feel stressed and how that stress affects your life. Then, once we’ve learned about your unique circumstances, we’ll provide you with personalized tools to help lower your stress levels. Contact us today to get started.

    Filed Under: stress

    What Is the 333 Rule for Anxiety?

    January 15, 2026

    If you regularly experience anxiety, you may have researched ways to relieve your symptoms and come across a coping mechanism known as the “333 rule.” But how does it work? The next time you’re feeling anxious, try: Naming three things you see Naming three sounds you hear Moving three body parts How Does the 333 […]

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    What Is the 333 Rule for Anxiety?

    If you regularly experience anxiety, you may have researched ways to relieve your symptoms and come across a coping mechanism known as the “333 rule.” But how does it work? The next time you’re feeling anxious, try:

    1. Naming three things you see
    2. Naming three sounds you hear
    3. Moving three body parts

    How Does the 333 Rule Reduce Anxiety?

    Although the 333 rule doesn’t work in every situation, many therapists recommend it to patients living with anxiety because it helps to ground them. By concentrating on sights, sounds, and movements, patients can stop fixating on their worries and instead focus on the present moment. One of the benefits of the 333 rule is that it doesn’t require someone to be in a certain place or have access to a certain object—instead, they can use it virtually anytime and from almost anywhere. Patients can even practice the 333 rule when they’re not feeling anxious to start establishing it as a habit.

    For More Information

    If you’d like to know more about how the 333 rule can help combat anxiety, contact us today. Our therapists have experience using the 333 rule and various other techniques to treat anxiety, and we can develop a care approach that’s customized to your specific needs. When you reach out, we’ll tell you more about our practice, answer your questions, and arrange a time for you to attend an initial therapy session. We look forward to meeting with you and helping you take the next step toward an anxiety-free life.

    Filed Under: Anxiety

    How to Tell Someone Your Boundaries

    January 15, 2026

    So, you’ve decided that it’s time to set some boundaries in your life. Good for you! Boundaries are essential to maintaining relationships with friends, family members, and coworkers, as they can help build trust and respect. Once you’ve decided what your boundaries are, the next step will be communicating them to those around you. Here […]

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    How to Tell Someone Your Boundaries

    So, you’ve decided that it’s time to set some boundaries in your life. Good for you! Boundaries are essential to maintaining relationships with friends, family members, and coworkers, as they can help build trust and respect. Once you’ve decided what your boundaries are, the next step will be communicating them to those around you. Here are some tips for how to do so:

    • Be clear. Explain exactly what you expect so that there’s no room for misinterpretation. For example, if you don’t want to work evenings, say, “I’m available between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m.” rather than “I can’t work late,” since “late” can mean different things to different people.
    • Establish consequences. Explain what will happen if your boundary is crossed. For instance, if your child regularly yells, say, “If you raise your voice while we’re having a conversation, I will leave the room until you calm down.” And most importantly, follow through on those consequences.
    • Use the sandwich method. If you’re concerned about how the other person will react, try sandwiching your boundary between two positive statements. For example, if you’re feeling overwhelmed by how frequently your sister calls, you could say, “I love our chats, but I’ve been so busy with this new job that I’m not able to talk each night. Can we schedule a time each week to catch up?”

    Do You Struggle to Set Boundaries?

    Setting and communicating boundaries can be difficult, but it’s a lot easier with the help of an experienced therapist. Fortunately, you can get the assistance you need from our practice. We understand the intricacies of relationships between family members, friends, coworkers, and other acquaintances, and we’ll provide you with tailored advice on how to effectively set any necessary boundaries. Contact us today to schedule a therapy session at a date and time that’s convenient for you.

    Filed Under: communication

    What Is Executive Dysfunction?

    January 15, 2026

    The brain has three main executive functions: working memory (which helps you remember what you’re doing at the present moment), cognitive flexibility (which helps you shift your thinking from one topic to another), and inhibition control (which helps you focus and stop yourself from saying and doing certain things). Executive dysfunction disrupts these functions, making […]

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    What Is Executive Dysfunction?

    The brain has three main executive functions: working memory (which helps you remember what you’re doing at the present moment), cognitive flexibility (which helps you shift your thinking from one topic to another), and inhibition control (which helps you focus and stop yourself from saying and doing certain things). Executive dysfunction disrupts these functions, making it difficult for someone to manage their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

    What Causes Executive Dysfunction?

    Researchers are still working to determine exactly what causes executive dysfunction, but studies suggest that it can result from various conditions, including:

    • Addiction
    • Alzheimer’s disease
    • Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
    • Autism spectrum disorder
    • Brain tumors
    • Cerebral hypoxia
    • Exposure to certain toxins
    • Dementia
    • Depression
    • Epilepsy
    • Head injuries
    • Huntington’s disease
    • Infections
    • Multiple sclerosis (MS)
    • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
    • Schizophrenia
    • Strokes

    Treatment for executive dysfunction will usually depend on the condition that caused it.

    What Are the Symptoms of Executive Dysfunction?

    Executive dysfunction can produce different symptoms in different people. If you have executive dysfunction, you may:

    • Be easily distracted
    • Find it hard to focus on one thing
    • Daydream when you need to pay attention
    • Focus too much on one thing
    • Lack impulse control
    • Have a hard time explaining your thought processes
    • Struggle to motivate yourself to start difficult or boring tasks
    • Have trouble planning or completing tasks
    • Get easily interrupted partway through tasks
    • Find it difficult to move from one task to another

    Learn More About Executive Dysfunction

    If you think you might be experiencing executive dysfunction, we encourage you to reach out and schedule an appointment. Our experienced therapists understand the impact that executive dysfunction can have on a person’s life, and we would love the opportunity to help you overcome the challenges you’re currently facing. Contact us today to get started.

    Filed Under: executive dysfunction

    What the Heck Is “Breathwork”? Beginning Your Mindfulness Journey

    January 15, 2026

    If you’re new to the world of mindfulness and meditation, breathwork might sound like no more than a wellness buzzword. In actuality, however, it’s a powerful, science-backed tool in the mindfulness toolkit. By learning how to intentionally regulate your breath, you can trigger your body’s natural calming response—often within minutes. If you’ve ever felt stuck […]

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    What the Heck Is “Breathwork”? Beginning Your Mindfulness Journey

    If you’re new to the world of mindfulness and meditation, breathwork might sound like no more than a wellness buzzword. In actuality, however, it’s a powerful, science-backed tool in the mindfulness toolkit. By learning how to intentionally regulate your breath, you can trigger your body’s natural calming response—often within minutes. If you’ve ever felt stuck in a state of anxiety, anger, or even just overstimulated by a busy day, breathwork guided by a mental health professional can bring your body and mind back to center. 

    No Fancy Equipment Needed to Get Started! 

    Practicing breathwork for mindfulness doesn’t require any equipment or expensive classes. It simply means bringing awareness to your breathing and shifting it in a way that supports your emotional state. Here are a few common types of breathwork: 

    • Box breathing involves inhaling, holding, and exhaling for equal counts 

    • Alternate nostril breathing (done by taking turns closing each nostril with light finger pressure) can promote balance and calm 

    • Diaphragmatic (or belly) breathing helps slow your heart rate and relax your body 

    • “4-7-8” breathing reduces stress and quiets racing thoughts 

    Many people find that consistent breathwork practice becomes a gateway into deeper mindfulness practices, like meditation and yoga. It can also be useful during therapy to help manage overwhelming emotions or flashbacks. 

    The Intersection of Breathwork and Therapy 

    Therapists often integrate breathwork into sessions because of its grounding effects. Whether you’re new to therapy or just exploring tools for better emotional regulation, breathwork is an excellent place to start. Our counselors are compassionate professionals who can support your growth every step of the way with breathwork and other invaluable anti-anxiety techniques. Schedule a consultation today

    Filed Under: Anger

    Journal Prompts to Start Healing From Depression

    January 15, 2026

    Healing from depression can feel overwhelming, especially if professional support isn’t accessible. While therapy is a powerful resource, not everyone has the time or money to dedicate to this form of healing. On the other hand, journaling is a free and effective tool to begin understanding and expressing your thoughts. Writing prompts around depression can […]

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    Journal Prompts to Start Healing From Depression

    Healing from depression can feel overwhelming, especially if professional support isn’t accessible. While therapy is a powerful resource, not everyone has the time or money to dedicate to this form of healing. On the other hand, journaling is a free and effective tool to begin understanding and expressing your thoughts. Writing prompts around depression can help you bypass the mental fog you’re dealing with and focus on healing. 

    Do You Need to Be a Writer to Benefit From Journaling? 

    You don’t need to be a writer to benefit! Simply engaging with thoughtful journal prompts daily or weekly can start shifting your mindset and clarifying your emotions when things get tough. Here are a few prompts to help you get started: 

    1. “What would I say to a friend who felt like I do right now?” 

    2. “What does my depression need me to know today?” 

    3. “What used to bring me joy, and how might I reconnect with it?” 

    4. “What thoughts have been weighing on me the most this week?” 

    5. “How would I like to feel three months from now?” 

    Journaling can become an empowering routine that supports awareness and emotional release, especially during hard moments when connection feels distant. Use these prompts as a safe space to explore your inner world when bad feelings creep up. 

    Go a Step Further With Depression Therapy 

    Working with a mental health provider adds structure and insight to your healing journey. If you’re ready to go deeper, therapy can help uncover the root causes of your depression and offer you tools to create lasting change. Our team is here to support your comfort and growth—reach out to begin your path forward with depression therapy. 

    Filed Under: journaling

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    815 Ritchie Highway Suite 210 Severna Park, MD 21146

    (443) 472-1048 barbarajborsi@gmail.com

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    barbarajborsi@gmail.com | (443) 472-1048

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