Help With Emotions & Common Issues
Whether you are here for yourself or a loved one, take a breath and look around at your leisure. There is a lot of varied information here and is just the tip of the iceberg.
If there is something specific that you want further information about or do not see it addressed here, please accept this invitation to call.
This site aims to provide some basic information related to commonly shared emotional struggles, mental health concerns along with symptoms, tips, resources and maybe even a bit of hope.
There are times when we all could use some help with putting the pieces together and moving forward
YOU ARE NOT ALONE
I encourage new clients to obtain a complete physical and discuss current medicines being taken, to rule out physical problems.
When you get fed up and tired with the way your life is going, are annoyed by your own self destructive patterns of behavior, find that your need for emotional support is lacking as well as objective feedback and hope
Should the need arise to cancel or reschedule regular assessment fees apply.
Welcome to the web site of locally renowned pre-licensed psychotherapist Ashley Bretting, M.S. Marriage & Family Therapist registered intern, as published in the Ventura County Star newspaper, Healthy Attitudes Magazine, and Camarillo Acorn.
Ashley facilitates therapeutic support groups and works with individuals in the Ventura County, CA area. She see's clients from 7 years to 87 years of age, men, women, teens and families.
Some commonly addressed issues are touched on below.
Anxiety
A few physical symptoms that can occur as a result of anxiety:
Depression
Some of the signs & symptoms of depression
- difficulty concentrating, remembering details, and making decisions
- fatigue and decreased energy
- feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and/or helplessness
- feelings of hopelessness and/or pessimism
- insomnia, early-morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping
- irritability, restlessness
- thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts
Bipolar
Unusually high moods ( Mania ) with bouts of depression. May indicate the presence of a mood disturbance known as bipolar. It is important to discuss this with your physician to rule out any physical causes.
Frustrated, Overwhelmed or Angry
All emotions are o.k., it is what we do with these emotions that may not be working for us or causing problems in our lives. Discover healthier ways to experience and express yourself. There are several different options available for you to achieve these goals. Sleep Issues
- A warm bath or shower helps some individuals
- Make yourself a nice warm cup of tea (decaffeinated)
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Focusing on one thing helps calm the mind, it does take practice to train your mind to focus
Self Esteem
Self-esteem affects virtually everything you say, think and do. It affects how you experience the world and your place in it. Discover great ways to improve your self esteem.
Clicking the below image will open a new window and
take you to my other site
"Surviving Emotions"
The Mind Body Connection
Neglecting mental health issues while failing to recognize the mind body connection can lead to many health problems as well as, a decline in cognitive abilities resulting in such symptoms as; trouble concentrating, reduced reasoning abilities, poor interpersonal skills, lack of motivation and sleep difficulties.
Children and Teens
At some point in our lives, each of us will face the loss of someone or something dear to us. Dr. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross has named five stages of grief people go through following a serious loss. Help with grieving is available.
Denial Anger Bargaining Depression Acceptance
All ages and genders participate in groups, some groups are coed while others are gender specific What you can expect is to: learn, grow, laugh, cry and explore, while receiving the support you deserve.
Some individuals are reluctant to be part of group and this is fine, you may want to give it a try for a few weeks - you can always change your mind! You may find it was the best decision you ever made as you discover more about yourself and others in one of these dynamic nurturing settings. Individual sessions are always available and this may better suit you and your needs. You know yourself best.
Topics include: Self esteem, Life transitions, Loss; job, home, relationship, PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), Illness (chronic or just diagnosed), Relationship conflicts, Loneliness, Isolation, Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, Anger & Stress issues, Eating & Self harm as well as, Issues surrounding aging to name just a few.
Example of Groups Available
Mens Support Group - Monday's 6:15 - 7:30 pm
Discuss and discover healthier coping skills for dealing with variety of issues that are specific to today's men. From anxiety, anger, panic attacks and obsessive compulsive disorders to relationship problems, depression, post traumatic stress, losses due to the economy or through death or divorce. We also explore issues surrounding aging and more.
Discover new tools and techniques for dealing with various forms of anxiety, from generalized anxiety to agoraphobia, panic attacks and obsessive compulsive disorders, frustration/ anger, depression, post traumatic stress, relationship conflicts, sleep difficulties, self esteem, negative self talk and more. This is a co-ed group.
to accommodate your schedule & your needs.
