Therapeutic Talks With Dr. Bobby L. Armstrong
143 episodes - English - Latest episode: 4 months ago -Conversations about mental health and tips on how to manage.
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Episodes
Have You Done Your Year In Review ?
January 09, 2024 19:05 - 12 minutes - 11.3 MBReflecting on the past year can be a valuable exercise, especially from a psychological perspective. As a clinical psychologist, I encourage individuals to engage in a year in review for several reasons: Self-awareness and Insight: A year in review allows for a comprehensive evaluation of personal growth, achievements, challenges, and areas for improvement. It facilitates a deeper understanding of oneself, fostering self-awareness and insight into patterns of behavior, emotions, and thought...
How Well Do You Know Yourself ?
December 13, 2023 13:48 - 9 minutes - 8.98 MB#Understanding Emotional Intelligence "Emotional Intelligence is the ability to understand, use, and manage our own emotions in positive ways to relieve stress, communicate effectively, empathize with others, overcome challenges, and defuse conflict. It involves recognizing, empathizing, and influencing the emotions of others as well. High EI contributes to better communication, reduced anxiety and depression, and improved relationships." Tip 1: #Self-awareness "Our first tip is to cultiv...
Get Out Your Head and Into Your Thoughts
December 05, 2023 18:45 - 10 minutes - 10.1 MBToday, we're diving into the fascinating world of our minds. Ever felt like your thoughts are running a marathon without your permission? ... Let’s explore how to hop off that thought treadmill and see the world a bit differently." "Our brain is like a supercomputer, processing thousands of thoughts daily. But sometimes, it gets a bit, let's say, overenthusiastic, especially with negative thoughts. ...It's not about swapping true thoughts for false positivity but finding a more balance...
Stop Doing This To Yourself
November 15, 2023 15:12 - 14 minutes - 13.8 MBEffective Strategies to Overcome Self-Rejection In this enlightening video, we dive into practical and empowering strategies to cope with and overcome self-rejection. The video is a must-watch for anyone struggling with negative self-perceptions or seeking to improve their relationship with themselves. Key Highlights: Develop Self-Awareness Recognize self-rejecting thoughts. Understand their origins. Challenge Negative Thoughts Use cognitive restructuring to replace irrational beliefs...
Learn To Say No and Why !
October 31, 2023 19:58 - 11 minutes - 10.4 MBCompassion fatigue, often associated with caregiving professions, describes the emotional and psychological strain of consistently helping those in distress, leading to a diminished capacity for empathy. Symptoms range from emotional exhaustion to reduced empathy, irritability, and physical ailments. To cope, individuals should recognize its signs and prioritize self-care activities, such as relaxation, setting boundaries, and taking regular breaks. Seeking professional counseling, engaging ...
Benefits of Seeking Therapy : You Should Do It !
October 17, 2023 13:28 - 8 minutes - 7.97 MBIf you're new here, don't forget to hit that subscribe button for more insightful content. Today, we like to discuss seeking Mental Health. So let's jump right in! Emotional Self-awareness: Have you ever felt overwhelmed by your emotions but couldn't quite pin down why? Therapy helps us understand and recognize our feelings. By tuning into our emotions, we can communicate more effectively and navigate life's challenges with a clearer mind. Stress Management: Let's face it, life can get hec...
World Mental Health Day
October 10, 2023 15:04 - 10 minutes - 9.69 MBToday, in honor of World Mental Health Day, we're diving into the top reasons why seeking mental health support is not just important, but crucial for our overall well-being. ...Emotional Self-awareness: Have you ever felt overwhelmed by your emotions but couldn't quite pin down why? ... By tuning into our emotions, we can communicate more effectively and navigate life's challenges with a clearer mind. ...Seeking mental health support can equip you with strategies to handle stress, making...
Celebrate Who You Are !!!
October 03, 2023 10:30 - 11 minutes - 10.2 MBJoin us as we discuss the world of self-validation, self-compassion, and the incredible impact celebrating yourself can have on your mental well-being. As a psychotherapist, I'll share valuable insights on how embracing self-celebration can boost self-esteem, reduce stress, and foster a positive self-image. If you're looking to enhance your self-worth and overall happiness, don't miss this insightful discussion. Learn why it's crucial to celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how big or ...
Did You Know ?
September 28, 2023 20:12 - 10 minutes - 9.96 MB"🌟 A Message of Hope 🌟 | In today's video, join us as we delve into an inspiring conversation about the beauty of resilience, the strength in seeking support, and the infinite possibilities that life holds for each of us. Whether you're going through a tough time or know someone who is, this heartfelt message from a seasoned psychotherapist is a beacon of light in moments of darkness. Remember, your story isn't over. 💖 #SuicidePrevention #MentalHealthMatters #HopeAndHealing" If you or someo...
How Connections Can Prevent Suicide
September 20, 2023 14:51 - 9 minutes - 9.24 MBToday, we're exploring how genuine connections can be a beacon of hope in suicide prevention. At our core, we're all wired for connection. It's what gives our lives depth, meaning, and a sense of belonging.
How To Prevent Suicide: Clinical Approaches in Psychology
September 18, 2023 16:06 - 14 minutes - 13.2 MBToday we delve deep into the clinical psychological understanding of suicide, its risk factors, and evidence-based interventions. Drawing from key models like the biopsychosocial approach, the cognitive triad, and the interpersonal theory of suicide, we aim to shed light on this pressing public health issue.
Lifesavers: A Guide to Recognizing and Responding to Suicide Ideation
September 15, 2023 18:13 - 9 minutes - 8.34 MBSuicidal Ideation refers to thoughts about, or an unusual preoccupation with, suicide. It doesn't mean that the person will act on these thoughts, but it is still a severe situation. There are many factors that can contribute to suicidal ideation, including mental health disorders, traumatic experiences, prolonged stress, and significant losses, among others. Prevention and intervention are crucial in addressing and alleviating these thoughts.
The Church's Role in Suicide Prevention within the Black Community: A Psychological Perspective
September 14, 2023 11:01 - 11 minutes - 10.6 MBToday we explore the rising rates of suicide in the black community and emphasize the potential and pivotal role of the church in its prevention. Drawing from psychological research, we highlight the importance of communal ties, cultural connection, and spiritual grounding that churches provide. This forms a blueprint for religious institutions to be instrumental in addressing mental health and suicide prevention within the black community
Breaking the Silence: Navigating Depression and Suicide in the Black Community
September 11, 2023 13:44 - 11 minutes - 10.2 MBHi everyone. I'm, Dr. Armstrong a licensed psychotherapist, and today we'll address a topic that's close to my heart: depression and suicide within the Black community. A conversation that's long overdue. The Black community is beautifully diverse, with a rich tapestry of experiences and stories. But, often interwoven with this narrative is a silent struggle, one that's hidden behind resilience, pride, and a sense of community. Many Black individuals have grown up hearing about the importa...
What You Should Know About Suicide ; It's Preventable !
September 05, 2023 12:31 - 7 minutes - 6.58 MBPrevention is Key ! Acknowledge Your Feelings: Before one can process or change feelings, it's essential to acknowledge them. Feeling sadness, anger, fear, or any other emotion is okay. Give yourself permission to feel without judgment. Reframe Negative Thoughts: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) emphasizes the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. By reframing negative or irrational beliefs, it's possible to change emotional responses and actions. Control the Controlla...
You Can Stay Positive IF You Want To !
August 30, 2023 13:00 - 10 minutes - 9.38 MBAcknowledge Your Feelings: Before one can process or change feelings, it's essential to acknowledge them. It's okay to feel sadness, anger, fear, or any other emotion. Give yourself permission to feel without judgment. Reframe Negative Thoughts: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) emphasizes the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. By reframing negative or irrational beliefs, it's possible to change emotional responses and actions. Control the Controllables: Focus on wha...
From Pain to Paper Write, Reflect, Recover: Written Exposure Therapy
August 29, 2023 17:44 - 9 minutes - 8.83 MBThe structured and repetitive nature of WET sessions is crucial. Sessions typically begin with standard instructions for the client to recount their trauma in detail, emphasizing their thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations. Over sessions, clients may develop a more organized, coherent narrative of their traumatic experiences, which can serve to integrate the traumatic event into the broader context of their lives.
Knowing the Cycles of Grief
August 28, 2023 18:56 - 10 minutes - 9.89 MBGrief is a journey that everyone travels at some point in their life. While the road can be dark and winding, it's essential to understand that there are methods to navigate it. Today, we'll explore five key steps to help you move through your grief. 1. Acknowledge Your Emotions The first step is to recognize and accept your feelings. It's natural to experience a whirlwind of emotions like sadness, anger, and confusion. Allow yourself to feel these emotions without judgment. Remember, it's ...
This Technique Can Help Heal Faster !!! Process It !
August 24, 2023 17:57 - 8 minutes - 7.86 MBCognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is a specific type of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) designed primarily to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and related conditions. Here's an explanation using a mix of psychological and general terms: Stuck Points: In CPT, a central concept is the idea of "stuck points." These are maladaptive beliefs or thoughts that individuals might have after experiencing a traumatic event. For example, someone might think, "It was my fault I was attack...
How Therapy Can Work For You !
August 22, 2023 16:52 - 10 minutes - 9.37 MBWhy Therapy Works: The Science Behind Why Therapy Can Work For Today, we're delving into the fascinating world of therapy to understand why it's an effective tool for personal growth and healing. We'll explore five fundamental principles that blend scientific understanding with human connection. Let's begin." 1. Safe Environment and Therapeutic Alliance - The effectiveness of therapy often starts with the therapeutic alliance, a trusting relationship between you and your therapist. In ...
This Can Help You Find Peace
August 15, 2023 15:47 - 9 minutes - 8.66 MBSetting boundaries is a fundamental component of mental health and self-care. Here's how setting boundaries can help an individual find peace: Self-Preservation: Protecting emotional and physical space. Improved Relationships: Creating clarity and reducing conflicts. Enhanced Self-Esteem and Self-Respect: Honoring personal needs and feelings. Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Avoiding overwhelm by setting limits. Increased Autonomy and Empowerment: Taking control of one's own life. Time and...
Here's What They Don't Tell You About Therapy
August 08, 2023 18:24 - 10 minutes - 9.62 MBWhat People Don't Say About Therapy It's funny how often we, as therapists, hear some version of, “Why didn’t anyone tell me this before?” or “I wish I’d known about therapy years ago.” The world outside the four walls of a therapy room often paints a different picture of what therapy is and what it isn’t. Here's what they don’t tell you: Therapy isn’t just for ‘crazy’ people. That’s a myth, a stereotype that does more harm than good. People from all walks of life seek therapy. From CEOs t...
As Within So Without: The Journey of Self Reflection
August 01, 2023 16:54 - 11 minutes - 10.7 MBWelcome to our journey into the fascinating realm of psychology! In today's video, we'll explore the profound concept of "As Within, So Without." This principle suggests that our internal thoughts, emotions, and beliefs shape the external experiences we encounter in our lives. Let's dive deep into this intriguing idea and discover how understanding ourselves can lead to personal growth and transformation. Our perception of the world reflects our internal thoughts and emotions. Thoughts and...
Getting Out Of The Dark Place
July 18, 2023 15:44 - 10 minutes - 9.38 MBAs a psychotherapist, I understand that being in a dark place psychologically can be challenging, but there are steps you can take to begin your journey towards healing and well-being. Here are five therapeutic tips to consider: 1. Practice self-compassion: Be gentle with yourself and recognize that it's normal to face difficult emotions. Treat yourself with kindness and understanding, just as you would a close friend. Embrace self-care activities that nourish your mind, body, and spirit. P...
What Does Being Mental Healthy Look Like ?
July 11, 2023 20:39 - 8 minutes - 7.58 MBBeing mentally healthy encompasses several factors, and while it can vary from person to person, there are some common signs and characteristics associated with good mental health. Here are some aspects that may indicate mental well-being: Emotional balance: A mentally healthy individual experiences a range of emotions but can manage them effectively. They have a generally positive outlook, can cope with stress, and are resilient in the face of challenges. Self-esteem and self-acceptance: ...
Why Are You Mad All The Time !
July 05, 2023 17:01 - 18 minutes - 16.8 MBAs a psychotherapist, I can provide you with some fundamental ways to manage anger and discuss different types of anger. Anger is a complex emotion that can vary in intensity and expression from person to person. It's important to remember that anger itself is not inherently negative or unhealthy; it is how we express and manage our anger that can have positive or negative consequences. Here are some key strategies for managing anger: Awareness and Recognition: The first step in managing an...
Accept That !
June 29, 2023 16:56 - 10 minutes - 9.33 MBAcceptance is a fundamental part of human psychology and plays a vital role in mental and emotional wellbeing. It's about acknowledging and embracing the reality of situations, emotions, and thoughts as they are, rather than trying to change, deny, or avoid them. It's a key element in many therapeutic approaches, including mindfulness and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). Here's a look at the positive (good) and negative (bad) aspects of acceptance: Positive aspects of acceptance: ...
Are You Secure: Emotionally ?
June 20, 2023 16:56 - 11 minutes - 10.5 MBToday, I would like to address a topic that is of utmost importance in our lives: emotional security. As a psychotherapist, I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact emotional security has on our overall well-being and mental health. So, let's take the next 10 minutes to delve into this vital aspect of our lives and explore how we can cultivate emotional security. Emotional security refers to the sense of stability, comfort, and confidence we experience in our relationships, as well a...
Just How Powerful is Positive Thinking ?
June 06, 2023 17:32 - 9 minutes - 9.23 MBThe Power of Positive Thinking "Good morning/afternoon/evening, everyone. Thank you for joining us today. Our topic is 'The Power of Positive Thinking'. Let's explore how it can shape our lives and guide us towards success." "First, let's understand what Positive Thinking is. It's a mental and emotional attitude that focuses on the bright side of life and expects positive results. It's about having optimism in our heart and mind." "Why is it important? Well, the benefits are numerous. Po...
Pace Yourself: A Guide To Mastering Life's Rhythm
May 11, 2023 16:23 - 11 minutes - 10.3 MBHello and welcome, Today, we're going to explore the concept of "Pacing Yourself" and learn some valuable tips on how to master life's rhythms to maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle. Let's get started! Tip 1: Listen to your body One of the most important aspects of pacing yourself is listening to your body. Your body sends signals when it needs rest, nourishment, and activity. Pay attention to these cues and respond accordingly. Remember, it's essential to respect your body's limits ...
Never Alone !
May 03, 2023 21:17 - 10 minutes - 9.5 MBAs a psychotherapist, I am deeply concerned about the epidemic of loneliness that has been growing in recent years. Loneliness is a subjective feeling of social isolation, which can have significant consequences for both mental and physical health. It is important to address this issue, as it can lead to an increased risk of depression, anxiety, and even physical ailments such as cardiovascular disease. There are several factors that have contributed to the rise in loneliness. These include...
The "Way" You Think
April 25, 2023 17:56 - 8 minutes - 7.79 MBAs a psychotherapist, I'd like to share some insights on creating your own happiness, combating negative thoughts, and thinking more positively. It's important to remember that everyone's journey to happiness is unique, and what works for one person might not work for another. However, there are some general strategies that can help. 1. Cultivate self-awareness: Develop an understanding of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This will allow you to recognize patterns and make changes whe...
All The Way to the CORE
April 07, 2023 21:58 - 9 minutes - 9.11 MBCore beliefs are our most fundamental beliefs about ourselves, others, and the world. They are formed in early childhood and are based on our experiences and interactions with the world around us. Core beliefs can be either positive or negative, and they can have a significant impact on our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Positive core beliefs can help us to feel confident, secure, and worthy. They can also help us to be more resilient in the face of challenges. Negative core beliefs, on...
You Are Good Enough !
March 31, 2023 13:48 - 9 minutes - 9.1 MBAs a psychologist, I understand that core beliefs can have a significant impact on one's mental well-being and overall functioning. The belief of "not being good enough" is a common and pervasive one that many individuals struggle with. It's important to address this belief in order to improve self-esteem, mental health, and overall life satisfaction. Here are some steps you can take to challenge and change this core belief: Identify the belief: Recognize when you're thinking or feeling tha...
Triggered !
March 13, 2023 17:02 - 14 minutes - 13.8 MBTriggers are events, situations, people, or memories that can elicit intense emotional reactions or distressing symptoms, particularly in individuals who have experienced trauma, anxiety, or other mental health conditions. They can be both external (such as a loud noise or a specific location) or internal (such as negative thoughts or physical sensations). Coping with triggers can be challenging, but there are several strategies that can help: Identify your triggers: Keep track of situatio...
Stay Calm ; Regulate
March 03, 2023 17:08 - 6 minutes - 5.7 MBEmotional dysregulation (ED) is a term used to describe an individual's difficulty in regulating their emotions. It can manifest in many ways, including feeling overwhelmed by intense emotions, difficulty controlling outbursts or expressions of anger or sadness, and difficulty managing distressful situations. People who experience ED may find it difficult to express their feelings without becoming overwhelmed or feeling out of control. ED can also lead to unhealthy coping strategies, such as...
It's Been There All The Time !!!
February 15, 2023 17:20 - 10 minutes - 9.36 MBAnxiety is an incredibly complicated and nuanced disorder that affects each individual differently. As such, when talking about anxiety, we often overlook certain symptoms that can be just as debilitating as the more commonly discussed ones. Symptoms like achy muscles after waking, breathlessness, doing things quickly or slowly, headaches and dizziness, frequent trips to the bathroom, skin problems, anger, unexplained stomach issues, and even not being able to speak can be just as prevalent ...
You Can Overcome
February 10, 2023 17:19 - 10 minutes - 9.77 MBYou Can Overcome Nobody likes to feel negative emotions, but instead of avoiding them altogether, it's important to understand how to tackle them. Overcoming negative emotions can be a real challenge, but with the right strategies in place — like deep breathing, journaling, and getting enough rest — you can make progress. You might even find that those pesky negative emotions don't have as much power over you as they used to! So why not give it a go? It could be just what you need. Good luc...
Hey Dad Are You There ?
January 27, 2023 15:10 - 12 minutes - 11.3 MBFathers have been known to have a special kind of bond with their children. And when it comes to parenting, fathers can play an instrumental role in helping their kids reach their full potential! That's why it's called "positive father involvement." This is the idea that dads should take part in activities such as reading stories, playing games, attending school and sporting events, or even helping with homework. Not only will this help strengthen the bond between father and child, but it ca...
Refocus on What's Really Important
January 10, 2023 18:44 - 11 minutes - 11.1 MBHappy New Year! In 2023 let us take a moment to reflect on the simple things in life that we often take for granted, let’s use this year to refocus on our own Mental Health and well-being, below is a list of 12 things to remind ourselves of. Let’s Make It A Great Year! • Happiness comes from within. • The right people hear you differently. • Your strength shows up differently each day. • Self-compassion is healing. • Rest is productive. • Maintaining inner peace is a full-time process....
The Better Version of You
December 19, 2022 17:54 - 11 minutes - 10.5 MBIn a world where people are constantly striving to be their best version, it can be difficult to know where to start. Living The Better Version of You is more than just a catchphrase; it's a lifestyle and a commitment to being the best you that you can possibly be. It starts with internal motivation and involves taking the steps necessary to reach your highest potential. This could mean anything from taking classes that further develop your skillset, to dedicating time and energy to a passio...
Unprocessed Trauma = Unhealed
December 14, 2022 19:53 - 10 minutes - 9.82 MBLiving with unprocessed trauma can be like living in an abandoned house: you may have moved in hoping for a fresh start, but the problems that haunt it remain. The walls are still chipped, the windows creak and the floors groan. You try your best to ignore them but soon enough they become too loud to ignore. Just because our pasts haunt us doesn't mean we're doomed to repeat the same mistakes. We can exorcise those ghosts by seeking therapy and adopting healthier coping mechanisms. It may b...
Don't Be Sad
November 29, 2022 17:00 - 12 minutes - 11.2 MBHaving the blues during the winter months? You might be a victim of seasonal depression. Seasonal depression, also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), is a form of depression related to changes in seasons that affects millions of people around the world every year. Symptoms may include feeling down or sad, losing interest in activities you usually enjoy, having low energy levels and sleeping more than usual. If you think you are experiencing SAD don’t fret – there are ways to fight ...
Be Patient
November 16, 2022 19:24 - 11 minutes - 10.8 MBThere's no shame in needing time to heal. Moving past trauma is never easy, and it often takes longer than we'd like. Be patient with yourself, and trust that you will get there in time. In the meantime, focus on building new routines and habits that support your healing journey. Surround yourself with people who understand and can offer love and support. And most importantly, don't give up on yourself. You deserve to heal and be happy.
Tuesday Tips: It Feels Good !
October 11, 2022 21:13 - 10 minutes - 9.35 MB"The ability to let things go is a great strength. It's what allows us to move on from the past and focus on the present. And it's what gives us the power to create our own future." - Unknown Letting things go can be hard, but it's always worth it in the end. Whether you're moving on from a past relationship, forgiving someone who has wronged you, or simply letting go of negative thoughts and emotions, letting go is always the best course of action. Not only does it allow you to move on fr...
Tuesday Tips : Coping with reminders after a loss
September 27, 2022 16:31 - 10 minutes - 9.99 MBIt's not unusual to feel overwhelmed by sadness, anger, and anxiety after a loss. You may find yourself crying spells, feeling fatigued, or having trouble sleeping. It's important to give yourself time to grieve and cope with your feelings. Here are some tips for dealing with reminders of your loss: - Acknowledge your feelings. Don't try to bottle them up. Allow yourself to cry, shout, or do whatever you need to do to express your emotions. -Talk about your loved one. Share memories and st...
Attached !
September 16, 2022 14:30 - 10 minutes - 9.46 MBWhat is your attachment style? If you're not sure, don't worry - you're not alone. In fact, most people are unsure of their attachment style. But why is this important? Your attachment style is based on your early experiences with caregivers (usually your parents). These experiences shape how you relate to others in your life, and can even affect your romantic relationships. There are three main attachment styles: secure, anxious-ambivalent, and avoidant. Let's take a closer look at each o...
Tuesday Tips: Attached
August 30, 2022 17:37 - 9 minutes - 8.67 MBThere are four attachment styles that people tend to fall into: secure, anxious, avoidant, and ambivalent. Each one is characterized by a different way of relating to others, and each one can have a major impact on your relationship style. Here's a quick overview of the four attachment styles: Secure Attachment: People with a secure attachment style are usually comfortable with intimacy and close relationships. They're able to trust their partner and feel confident that their relationship w...
Tuesday Tips: The Attitude of Change
August 23, 2022 19:41 - 10 minutes - 9.32 MBThe 5 A's of Change 1. Awareness 2. Acceptance 3. Acknowledgement 4. Action 5. Accountability Change can be difficult, but it is possible. The first step to change is awareness. You need to be aware of the problem in order to do something about it. Once you're aware, you need to accept that there is a problem. This can be difficult, but it's necessary in order to move forward. After acceptance comes acknowledgment. Acknowledge that you have a problem and that you need to do something a...
Tuesday Tips : Pojections , Are You Taking It Too Far ?
August 16, 2022 18:26 - 14 minutes - 13.4 MBWe've all heard of projection, but what exactly is it? And how far are you taking it? Projection is a defense mechanism that allows us to transfer our own thoughts, feelings, and impulses onto others. This can be a helpful way to cope with our own inner struggles, but only if we're aware of it. Otherwise, we can end up taking our projection too far. Here are some signs that you might be projecting: 1. You're quick to judge others. Do you find yourself judging others for their actions or...