WHAT IS STRESS COUNSELING?
We define stress as your body’s physiological response to a threat. Also called the “fight or flight response”, stress enhances your reflexes, strength, focus, and endurance when your body releases cortisol and adrenaline into your bloodstream. These hormones measurably increase your heartbeat, blood pressure, and breathing rate, while also tightening your muscles and sharpening your senses.
WHY WE EXPERIENCE STRESS
The fight-or-flight response evolved to protect your body from harm. It helped our ancestors survive the brutal experiences they faced when hunting and competing with other predators. Even today it can save your life in emergency situations, such as heightening your reactions to avoid a car accident or strengthening your stamina during a natural disaster.
Stressors are the experiences or environments that cause stress. And while we normally think of stressors as negative—such as overwhelming schedules, toxic relationships, and financial troubles—they can also be positive—such as career advancement opportunities.
In addition, stressors can be external or internal like life transitions, a sudden unexpected death, perfectionism and more.
STRESS COUNSELING TECHNIQUES
We understand that you will be bringing your anxiety with you to therapy. Our first priority is to create a safe and comfortable environment where healing relationships can be fostered.
It may take time for you to trust your therapist or to discover the causes of your anxiety. It may be difficult to talk about these causes, but as you learn and grow, you will see the light at the end of the tunnel—the bright light of hope.
In the end, our goal is to help you discover, set and achieve your goals, so that you can live the fulfilling life that you want.