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

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    Managing Burnout as a Working Professional in 2025

    June 20, 2025

    The fast pace of modern work life continues to take a toll on mental health in 2025. From hybrid schedules and digital fatigue to increasing demands for productivity, many working professionals in a wide range of industries are facing chronic burnout. This prolonged state of physical and emotional exhaustion doesn’t just affect performance—it impacts relationships, […]

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    Managing Burnout as a Working Professional in 2025

    The fast pace of modern work life continues to take a toll on mental health in 2025. From hybrid schedules and digital fatigue to increasing demands for productivity, many working professionals in a wide range of industries are facing chronic burnout. This prolonged state of physical and emotional exhaustion doesn’t just affect performance—it impacts relationships, self-esteem, and overall well-being. 

    Recognizing the Signs of Burnout

    Burnout often begins with signs that are easy to overlook. You might feel less motivated, dread the start of each workday, or find it difficult to concentrate. Left unaddressed, these symptoms can evolve into anxiety, depression, or even physical health problems. That’s why early awareness and intervention are key. Common signs of burnout include: 

    • Feeling emotionally drained or detached from your work 

    • Struggling to stay motivated or productive 

    • Increased irritability or a sense of hopelessness 

    • Difficulty sleeping or relaxing after work 

    • Constant worry about meeting expectations 

    If these experiences sound familiar, it may be time to explore ways to reset. Therapy can be a critical tool in understanding the cause of burnout and establishing healthier boundaries. A counselor can help you reframe your mindset, improve self-care routines, and explore career changes or communication strategies to regain control over your work-life balance. 

    A Team Armed With Burnout Solutions 

    Burnout doesn’t mean you’re weak or incapable—it means your environment may no longer be sustainable without support. I work with professionals from all industries to restore balance and confidence. Give us a call to get started! With the right tools, it’s possible to enjoy your work once more. 

    Filed Under: work-life balance

    6 Signs You May Be in an Abusive Relationship

    June 20, 2025

    Abuse in relationships often begins as a whisper before growing to a roar. Over time, control, fear, and emotional harm escalate, leaving individuals unsure if what they’re experiencing is abuse. If something feels wrong but you can’t quite name it, you may be experiencing a form of abuse. Recognizing the signs is a critical first […]

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    6 Signs You May Be in an Abusive Relationship

    Abuse in relationships often begins as a whisper before growing to a roar. Over time, control, fear, and emotional harm escalate, leaving individuals unsure if what they’re experiencing is abuse. If something feels wrong but you can’t quite name it, you may be experiencing a form of abuse. Recognizing the signs is a critical first step toward protecting yourself. If you are not in immediate danger, relationship counseling may be in order; however, not every relationship can be saved. 

    Abusive Relationships Take Many Forms

    Abuse doesn’t always involve physical violence. Emotional manipulation, threats, isolation, and financial control are also forms of abuse. It’s important to trust your instincts and pay attention to patterns that leave you feeling unsafe, diminished, or trapped. Six common signs of an abusive relationship include: 

    1. Constant criticism, belittling, or attempts to make you feel worthless 

    2. Isolation from family, friends, or support networks 

    3. Control over finances, schedules, or major decisions 

    4. Threats of harm to you, themselves, or loved ones 

    5. Unpredictable anger or emotional outbursts followed by blame 

    6. Gaslighting or denying your reality to make you question your sanity 

    If you see yourself in these patterns, know that you are not alone—and you deserve better. Relationship therapy, either by yourself or with your partner, can help you explore your experiences and determine a plan for moving forward. Reaching out may feel scary, but it is a powerful step toward reclaiming your independence and peace of mind. 

    We’re Here for You 

    Whether you’re still deciding what to do or ready to take action, therapy can give you the clarity, strength, and tools you need to move forward. Let us support you! Schedule a consultation today to explore therapy options at our practice, and don’t second-guess yourself any longer. 

    Filed Under: toxic relationship

    Rumination: What It Is & How to Stop Doing It

    June 2, 2025

    Rumination involves obsessively thinking about negative experiences and feelings. Some people replay events that occurred in the past, while others worry about situations that could potentially occur in the future. Rumination tends to have a snowball effect—certain mental health conditions (including generalized anxiety disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder) can cause someone to ruminate, and rumination can […]

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    Rumination: What It Is & How to Stop Doing It

    Rumination involves obsessively thinking about negative experiences and feelings. Some people replay events that occurred in the past, while others worry about situations that could potentially occur in the future.

    Rumination tends to have a snowball effect—certain mental health conditions (including generalized anxiety disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder) can cause someone to ruminate, and rumination can in turn worsen the symptoms of those conditions. Rumination often causes people to feel anxious, stressed, and depressed and makes it difficult for them to think, process their emotions, and sleep.

    How to Stop Ruminating

    Rumination often becomes more intense over time, so when you start experiencing negative thoughts, it’s important that you attempt to stop them from progressing. You may want to try:

    • Distracting yourself by exercising, doing chores, or calling a loved one
    • Moving to a new location (for example, taking a walk or visiting a coffee shop)
    • Meditating and practicing deep breathing exercises
    • Challenging the validity of your thoughts (for example, asking yourself whether there’s any proof supporting your worries)
    • Taking steps to actually resolve the problem that’s causing you to worry (for example, managing stress at home by creating a household to-do list)

    You should also pay attention to triggers that cause you to start ruminating and take steps to avoid them. For example, if you tend to ruminate late at night, try going to bed earlier or participating in an evening activity that will distract you from your thoughts. And when you do start to ruminate, acknowledge what’s occurring and remind yourself that it’s not healthy.

    Has Rumination Taken Over Your Life?

    If you’ve tried the strategies listed above but still find yourself ruminating, you may want to consider reaching out to a professional. Contact me today to schedule an appointment at a date and time that fits into your schedule.

    Filed Under: ruminating

    How to Emotionally Survive a Divorce

    June 2, 2025

    Divorce is often one of the most difficult experiences that a person can go through. In many cases, it requires you to leave your family home, lose contact with couple friends, and miss out on time with your children. And it almost always involves losing someone that you once loved, as well as the future […]

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    How to Emotionally Survive a Divorce

    Divorce is often one of the most difficult experiences that a person can go through. In many cases, it requires you to leave your family home, lose contact with couple friends, and miss out on time with your children. And it almost always involves losing someone that you once loved, as well as the future you had imagined having together.

    Despite how hard divorce can be, there are steps you can take to protect your mental and emotional health during this stage of your life. You may want to try:

    • Spending time with family and friends
    • Playing a new sport
    • Trying a new hobby
    • Volunteering in your community
    • Journaling
    • Meditating
    • Exercising
    • Spending time outdoors
    • Treating yourself to a massage
    • Attending support group meetings

    Divorce often causes people to feel anxious and depressed, so if you’re having a hard time coping, remind yourself that you’re not alone in feeling that way and that things will eventually get better. Give yourself a break while you recover from your divorce and adjust to your new way of life.

    Consider Speaking to a Therapist

    While leaning on your family and friends can often be very helpful following a divorce, sometimes it’s necessary to seek help from a professional. Contact me today to schedule a consultation.

    Filed Under: divorce

    Coping With Stress: Tips for Working Professionals in the Modern Age

    June 2, 2025

    In today’s hyper-connected world, stress has become an almost constant companion for working professionals. Emails don’t stop after hours, deadlines seem never-ending, and work-life balance has begun to feel more like a myth than a goal. Over time, chronic stress can affect not just productivity, but physical health, relationships, and emotional well-being. So if you’re […]

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    Coping With Stress: Tips for Working Professionals in the Modern Age

    In today’s hyper-connected world, stress has become an almost constant companion for working professionals. Emails don’t stop after hours, deadlines seem never-ending, and work-life balance has begun to feel more like a myth than a goal. Over time, chronic stress can affect not just productivity, but physical health, relationships, and emotional well-being. So if you’re feeling the pressure, it’s time to hook yourself up with professional support. 

    Effective Stress Management for Working Adults

    It’s easy to normalize high stress levels when they’re part of the daily grind. But when stress interferes with your sleep, mood, or ability to enjoy life, that’s no good. Luckily, certain small, consistent changes can make a big difference. Some effective stress management strategies for professionals include: 

    • Setting firm work-life boundaries and unplugging during personal time 

    • Practicing deep breathing, mindfulness, or guided meditation 

    • Prioritizing physical activity to release tension and boost energy 

    • Taking regular breaks during the workday to reset your focus 

    • Talking to a therapist to identify stress triggers and build resilience 

    You don’t have to wait until burnout hits—support is available to help you regain balance before stress becomes overwhelming. Therapy offers a space to examine your habits, thought patterns, and emotional responses to pressure. Give it a try! 

    Individual Therapy for Stress Done Right

    Whether you’re navigating leadership roles, remote work challenges, or simply juggling too much, therapy can help you regain clarity and calm—one session at a time. Get started today by scheduling your first! I understand the demands of professional life and tailor treatment to fit your lifestyle. 

    Filed Under: mental health

    The Many Forms of Anxiety and What to Do About It

    June 2, 2025

    Anxiety is one of the most common mental health challenges, but it doesn’t look the same for everyone. Some people experience racing thoughts before a presentation. Others feel panicked at the idea of leaving home. Anxiety shows up in many forms, and understanding your specific experience is the first step toward managing it with anxiety […]

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    The Many Forms of Anxiety and What to Do About It

    Anxiety is one of the most common mental health challenges, but it doesn’t look the same for everyone. Some people experience racing thoughts before a presentation. Others feel panicked at the idea of leaving home. Anxiety shows up in many forms, and understanding your specific experience is the first step toward managing it with anxiety therapy. 

    When Does General Anxiety Become an Anxiety Disorder?

    While having occasional anxiety is a normal part of life, persistent and overwhelming fear can signal a disorder. These conditions disrupt daily routines, strain relationships, and make even simple tasks feel daunting. Types of anxiety disorders include: 

    • Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), marked by constant worry about daily events 

    • Social Anxiety Disorder, involving intense fear of judgment or embarrassment 

    • Panic Disorder, with sudden, repeated panic attacks 

    • Phobias, which are strong fears of specific objects or situations 

    • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which share features with anxiety disorders 

    Anxiety can also overlap with depression, trauma, or burnout, making professional support especially valuable. Fortunately, anxiety is highly treatable, and help is available in many different forms. An anxiety therapist can help you identify triggers, develop coping strategies, and challenge unhelpful thought patterns. In some cases, medication may also be recommended to provide symptom relief. 

    Anxiety Therapy Can Change Your Life

    Whether your anxiety feels like constant tension or unpredictable panic, there are tools and techniques that can help you feel grounded and in control again. I work with clients to build personalized anxiety plans that empower them to heal at their own pace. Reach today to get started!

    Filed Under: mental health

    Who Is Most Vulnerable to Anorexia?

    May 15, 2024

    According to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD), approximately 9% of the U.S. population will have an eating disorder at some point in their lifetime. One of the most common eating disorders is anorexia nervosa (often referred to as just “anorexia”). Below, we explain what anorexia is and who may be […]

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    Who Is Most Vulnerable to Anorexia?

    According to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD), approximately 9% of the U.S. population will have an eating disorder at some point in their lifetime. One of the most common eating disorders is anorexia nervosa (often referred to as just “anorexia”). Below, we explain what anorexia is and who may be most vulnerable to it.

    What Is Anorexia?

    Before discussing who anorexia primarily affects, it may be helpful to explain exactly what it is. Anorexia is an eating disorder that causes someone to have a distorted perception of their weight as well as an extreme fear of gaining weight. Many people with this disorder severely restrict their caloric intake, exercise excessively, or purge after eating. As a result, individuals with anorexia often have a dangerously low body weight.

    Anorexia Causes & Risk Factors

    Researchers are still working to determine exactly what causes anorexia, but studies suggest that it may involve a combination of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors. Although anyone can develop anorexia, it’s especially common among females, adolescents, and teenagers. You may be particularly vulnerable to it if:

    • You’re a perfectionist.
    • You’re impulsive or have a hard time regulating your emotions.
    • You regularly go on diets.
    • You’ve recently gone through an emotional transition (for example, a move, a breakup, or the death of a loved one).
    • You’ve been teased or bullied about your appearance.
    • You’ve experienced a traumatic event.
    • You have a parent or sibling who had anorexia.

    Your Source for Anorexia Treatment

    If you struggle with an eating disorder talking with a therapist can help. I have worked with clients with eating disorders and can provide you with a customized treatment plan to work on this. Contact me today to learn more about my practice and schedule an initial consultation.

    Filed Under: anorexia

    What Not to Say to Someone With OCD

    May 15, 2024

    If a friend or family member has obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), you probably want to do whatever you can to help them. But if you’ve never dealt with this disorder yourself, you might have a hard time figuring out what to say. Your goal should be to empathize with them and offer support, so with that […]

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    What Not to Say to Someone With OCD

    If a friend or family member has obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), you probably want to do whatever you can to help them. But if you’ve never dealt with this disorder yourself, you might have a hard time figuring out what to say. Your goal should be to empathize with them and offer support, so with that in mind, you’ll want to avoid using these phrases:

    • “Relax” – OCD causes someone to have recurring, unwanted thoughts and urges (obsessions) and/or repeatedly perform certain actions (compulsions). Even if your loved one’s concerns seem unfounded or don’t make sense to you, it’s important that you remember they can’t help it, and that you don’t tell them to calm down or simply stop worrying. Doing so could leave them feeling invalidated and wondering whether you actually understand what they’re going through.
    • “I’m so OCD” – Many people believe that OCD simply causes one to be tidy or particular about how things are organized, but it’s much more than that. If you’ve actually been diagnosed with OCD, it could be incredibly helpful for you to share your experiences with your loved one. But if you’ve never received a formal diagnosis, avoid labeling relatively normal behaviors as “OCD,” since doing so can minimize the disorder.
    • “I thought you were over that” – Unfortunately, there’s currently no cure for OCD, although there are many treatment options available that can help manage the condition. Your loved one’s symptoms may appear to have improved, but be sure to remember that OCD is a chronic disorder that they may need to work at for the rest of their life.

    The Team to Choose for OCD Treatment

    Are you looking for a reputable therapist to help you with the symptoms that you have been experiencing from obsessive-compulsive disorder? I understand the impact this disorder can have on someone’s life. Contact me today to schedule a consultation.

    Filed Under: ocd

    How to Know if You’re an Introvert

    May 15, 2024

    What’s the difference between introversion and extroversion, and how can you tell whether you’re an introvert? We’ve got the answers you need below. Introversion vs. Extroversion Before exploring common signs of introversion, it may be helpful to first explain what it means to be an introvert as opposed to an extrovert. These two opposing personality […]

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    How to Know if You’re an Introvert

    What’s the difference between introversion and extroversion, and how can you tell whether you’re an introvert? We’ve got the answers you need below.

    Introversion vs. Extroversion

    Before exploring common signs of introversion, it may be helpful to first explain what it means to be an introvert as opposed to an extrovert. These two opposing personality types are determined based on what energizes a person—introverts feel energized after being alone, while extroverts feel energized after being around other people.

    Signs You Might Be an Introvert

    Many people assume that introverts are shy and antisocial, but that’s not always the case. Many introverts have excellent interpersonal skills but simply feel more drained after engaging in social interactions. You may be an introvert if:

    • You prefer speaking to others one-on-one or in a small group setting and tend to become quieter around large groups of people.
    • You have a small group of close friends.
    • You enjoy relaxing solo activities like meditating, reading, and writing.
    • You take time making decisions, often processing your thoughts in your head rather than out loud.
    • You prefer individual work versus group work.

    Are You an Introvert?

    If any of the above sounds familiar, you may be an introvert. I have extensive experience working with introverts, and can supply you with the tools and techniques you need to improve relationships, set boundaries, recharge your social battery, and enhance your overall quality of life. Contact me today to schedule a therapy session at a date and time that’s convenient for you.

    Filed Under: introvert

    Is Happiness Really a Choice?

    May 15, 2024

    You might have heard that happiness is a choice and wondered if that’s actually true. Unfortunately, for some individuals, mental health conditions like depression and bipolar disorder make it difficult for them to feel happy. There can also be several factors outside someone’s control—such as their age, physical health, or geographic location—that could make it […]

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    Is Happiness Really a Choice?

    You might have heard that happiness is a choice and wondered if that’s actually true. Unfortunately, for some individuals, mental health conditions like depression and bipolar disorder make it difficult for them to feel happy. There can also be several factors outside someone’s control—such as their age, physical health, or geographic location—that could make it harder for them to achieve happiness. With that said, many people can take affirmative steps to cultivate happiness over time.

    How to Find Happiness in Your Life

    If you’re looking for ways to feel happier in your day-to-day life, you may want to:

    • Focus on positives rather than on negatives.
    • Think about all the people and things that you’re grateful for.
    • Smile more often (studies have shown that the physical act of smiling can release hormones that increase happiness and reduce stress).
    • Implement a morning routine that incorporates stretching, meditating, journaling, and eating a healthy breakfast.
    • Increase your activity level (be sure to consult with your doctor before beginning a new exercise regimen).
    • Sleep more (most adults need at least seven hours of sleep each night).
    • Connect with friends and family members, either in person or over the phone.
    • Spend more time in nature.
    • Volunteer at an organization that’s meaningful to you.

    Start Living a Happier Life

    If you struggle with depression, bipolar disorder, or another mental health condition or you simply want to be a happier person, one of the best things you can do is reach out to an experienced therapist. Luckily, you can get the help you need from therapy. I understand how difficult it can sometimes be to achieve happiness, but I will supply you with personalized tips and tools that can help you start experiencing a better quality of life. Contact me today to schedule a therapy session at a date and time that fits into your schedule.

    Filed Under: happiness

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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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