The Little Things Count
08 October 17:10H Posted By
James Ogle, MSW, LCSW
Many individuals perceive therapy as something where one must reconcile a traumatic event or make a big change in life, but that is not always the case. Most individuals reach out and report being stuck in unhealthy thinking for a long time. People express not being able to change their worldview or their daily thought process. As it turns out, a person can improve their overall mental health in a relatively short period of time by making small changes consistently.
When I work with clients and they discuss experiencing anger, depression, or anxiety, I first help them recognize the thoughts that they tell themself often trigger these feelings. When both the client and I find a common ground regarding their unhealthy thinking, I discuss ways to change their thought process. If someone experiences anger, I might help them recognize that they may also be experiencing fear or hurt feelings in that moment. If someone experiences anxiety, I might help them recognize that even if something scary happens, they can survive the situation. If a client experiences depression and they are feeling down about a perceived flaw, I help them recognize a strength. This change in mindset might be the first step to change your thought process. As negative thinking can exacerbate mental health symptoms, positive thoughts can lead to improved mental health.
Shifting one’s mindset is not the only way to improve your mental health. Other activities can positively impact your mental health as well. Taking small steps to improve self-care, exercise, or even consider taking medication are other tools that can improve overall mental health. One does not need to dedicate a lot of time to these activities, but rather incorporate smaller chunks of time into your daily life. Little actions can have a big impact on your mental health satisfaction.
James Ogle, MSW, LCSW
Jim Ogle, MSW, LCSW
Jim is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who earned his Master’s degree in Social Work from Boston College. Having grown up in the North Shore area, Jim brings a familiarity of the community to the practice. He has been with Attention to Wellness for over a year and has over 16 years’ experience working with both adolescents and adults.
Jim has provided treatment in a variety of clinical settings to adolescents, adults, and families experiencing depression, anxiety, conduct issues, and other mood disorders. He brings six years’ experience working in court systems with youth on probation who were at risk of being removed from their home, and their families. Jim also brings experience providing anger management and drug counseling groups within multiple schools. Currently, Jim also works at a high school providing social work services to students who have an Individualized Education Program.
Jim’s approach with both adolescents and adults incorporates techniques from strengths-based, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (CBT/DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Structural Family Therapy to help clients identify and eliminate barriers that inhibit them from achieving their goals.
Follow us on Facebook
Add Comment