You wake up, reach for your phone, and there it is – another city engulfed in flames, another community swept away by floods, another ecosystem pushed to the brink. The morning light filtering through your window suddenly feels different, heavier somehow, as you process the latest climate disaster unfolding across your screen. Your chest tightens, your thoughts begin to race, and that familiar feeling of dread settles in like an unwelcome houseguest. If you've felt this way – this mix of heartache, helplessness, and creeping anxiety about our planet's future – you're part of a growing chorus of voices who carry the weight of our changing world. Let's talk about that spiral for a moment. You know the one – where a news article about rising sea levels somehow leads to imagining complete societal collapse by next Tuesday. It's like your brain becomes a runaway train, picking up speed with each catastrophic thought. While these feelings are completely valid (because let's face it, climate change is a serious issue), getting stuck in that spiral doesn't help you or the planet. So how do we find solid ground when it feels like the world is literally and figuratively burning? First, let's acknowledge something important: feeling anxious about climate change doesn't mean you're catastrophizing – it means you're paying attention. The trick isn't to stop caring; it's to channel that care into something sustainable for your mental health. Think of it like tending a garden. You can't control the weather, but you can control how you prepare, respond, and adapt to whatever comes your way. One powerful way to regain your footing is through what therapists call "scaling back to action." When your mind starts racing toward worst-case scenarios, gently pull yourself back to the present moment and ask: "What can I do right now?" Maybe it's supporting local environmental initiatives, joining a community garden, or making sustainable changes in your daily life. These actions might feel small against the backdrop of global climate change, but they're like dropping pebbles in a pond – the ripples extend far beyond the initial splash. Developing a "worry window" can also be surprisingly effective. Instead of letting climate concerns hijack your thoughts throughout the day, set aside specific time – say, 30 minutes – to engage with climate news and take action. This isn't about ignoring the reality of climate change; it's about creating boundaries that allow you to stay informed and involved without becoming overwhelmed. During your worry window, read those articles, process your feelings, and plan your next steps. Outside that window? Focus on living your life and implementing the positive changes you've planned. Connection is another powerful antidote to spiraling thoughts. When climate anxiety hits, our minds often zoom out to the global scale, making us feel tiny and powerless. Try zooming back in instead. Connect with local environmental groups, talk with friends who share your concerns, or join online communities focused on climate action. There's something incredibly grounding about realizing you're not facing this alone – that there are others out there working just as hard to make a difference. And here's something that might sound counterintuitive: sometimes the best thing you can do for the planet is to take care of yourself. When you're caught in an anxiety spiral, your ability to take meaningful action diminishes. Practice self-care strategies that help you stay centered: mindfulness exercises, time in nature, creative outlets, or whatever helps you feel grounded. Think of it as maintaining your own emotional sustainability – you can't pour from an empty cup, even when it comes to environmental activism. Remember that hope and concern can coexist. You can acknowledge the severity of climate change while also recognizing the incredible innovations, policy changes, and grassroots movements happening worldwide. Look for stories of positive change alongside the challenging headlines. They're not just feel-good narratives; they're proof that collective action makes a difference. If you find yourself sliding into catastrophic thinking, try this grounding exercise: name three things you can see in your immediate environment that represent hope or resilience. Maybe it's a plant growing through concrete, a neighbor's solar panels, or a community recycling bin. These small reminders help anchor us in the present moment and remind us that positive change is happening, even if it's not making headlines. Climate anxiety is a natural response to an overwhelming situation, but it doesn't have to control your life. By finding balance between awareness and action, creating sustainable boundaries, and connecting with others, you can transform that anxious energy into meaningful change. After all, the world needs you engaged and effective, not paralyzed by worry. So take a deep breath, plant your feet firmly on the ground, and remember: you're not carrying this weight alone.

Are you a high school student passionate about making a difference in the world of mental health? Our Summer Program for Psychology and Social Work might be the perfect opportunity for you to explore the vast and rewarding fields of psychology and social work this summer. Designed specifically for ambitious students eager to dive deep into the mental health profession, this program offers an immersive introduction to therapeutic modalities, ethical considerations, and the practical aspects of mental health care. Discover the World of Mental Health Professions The mental health field is dynamic and constantly evolving, with a growing need for compassionate and skilled professionals. Our program is your gateway to understanding this complex, fascinating world. Over four weeks, you'll gain insights into Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Psychodynamic Therapy through interactive sessions and hands-on activities. A Tailored Experience for High School Students This virtual program, tailored for high school students, blends flexibility with structured learning. With virtual meetings scheduled to accommodate students from all over the country, and content accessible on Google Classroom, participants can engage in learning at their own pace. Scheduled group supervisions and student seminars provide live interaction with experienced professionals, offering a rare glimpse into the therapeutic process. Empowering Your Educational Journey Participants will not only enhance their knowledge but also develop essential skills that are invaluable both in personal and professional life. Completing assignments such as quizzes, presentations, diagnostic formulations, and treatment planning enriches your understanding and prepares you for future studies or careers in psychology and social work. Join Us This Summer If you're ready to take the first step towards your future career in mental health, our Summer Program for Psychology and Social Work awaits you. With limited spots available, early registration is encouraged. Visit this page to learn more and secure your place in this summer's cohort. Embrace this chance to explore your passion for mental health, develop new skills, and make informed decisions about your educational and career path. Let this summer be the start of your journey into the rewarding field of psychology and social work.

Stepping into therapy, you might find yourself handed a questionnaire or two, like the PHQ-9 for depression or the GAD-7 for anxiety, and think, "Great, homework!" It's a common reaction. You're there to unpack the heavy stuff, to dive deep into conversation, not to tick boxes about how often you've felt down in the past two weeks. But here's the thing – while it might feel like an extra, maybe even annoying step, these tools are secretly superheroes in the realm of mental health. Let's face it, opening up to a therapist can be daunting. You're navigating this complex world of emotions and experiences, trying to articulate the whirlwind inside. Then, you're asked to quantify those feelings on a scale. It feels a bit off, right? Like trying to measure the ocean with a ruler. But these questionnaires, as dry as they may seem, are like the compass that helps navigate that vast ocean. They don't diminish the depth of your experiences but give you and your therapist a common starting point. Think of it this way: you wouldn't start a road trip without knowing your starting location. Similarly, understanding where you're at mentally when you begin therapy provides a map of sorts. It's not just about slapping a score on your feelings; it's about establishing a baseline. This baseline is crucial. It's the "You Are Here" marker on your personal journey to better mental health. With it, your therapist can tailor their approach more precisely to fit your needs, charting a course that's uniquely yours. But here’s the real magic – these numbers turn into a narrative of your progress. It's one thing to feel better; it's another to see it reflected back to you in black and white. Watching your scores change over time can be incredibly affirming. It's tangible proof that the conversations, the strategies, and maybe even the tears, are all part of moving forward. It's a way of tracking your journey that adds an extra layer of motivation and validation to the therapy process. And let's not overlook the power of collaboration these tools bring to the table. Therapy isn't a spectator sport; it's a partnership. By bringing these measurement tools into the mix, you're not just talking at your therapist; you're working with them. Together, you'll use these scores as signposts, checking in on your progress and adjusting the plan as you go. It turns therapy into a more dynamic, interactive process where you're an active participant in your own healing. In the whirlwind of emotions that therapy can sometimes stir up, these questionnaires offer a moment of clarity. Yes, filling them out might feel like a formality, a bit of administrative tedium before the real work begins. But in truth, they're laying the groundwork for a personalized, effective therapy experience. They ensure that your therapy sessions are more than just conversations; they're stepping stones on a well-mapped path to wellness. So next time you're handed a PHQ-9 or GAD-7, remember, it's not just a form. It's the beginning of a conversation, a way to turn the intangible into something measurable, and a step towards a therapy journey that's as unique and nuanced as you are. In the grand scheme of things, it's a small task with a big impact, making it a little less "homework" and a lot more "tool for transformation."

College life is a wild ride, isn't it? You've got classes, assignments, social stuff, and all the responsibilities of newfound independence. It's exciting, but it can also be super stressful. That's why taking care of yourself is more important than you might think. It's not a luxury; it's essential for making your college journey enjoyable and successful. So, let's chat about how you can dial down the stress and give yourself some TLC. First things first, let's talk about stress. We all get stressed, especially in college. It's a normal reaction to dealing with a bunch of stuff all at once. Figuring out what's stressing you out is the first step in managing it. Time management is a big deal in college. If you've got a gazillion things to do, it can feel overwhelming. So, get organized! Make a schedule that balances study time, relaxation, and hanging out with friends. Use a planner or an app to keep track of assignments and deadlines. Trust us, good time management leaves room for self-care. Ever heard of mindfulness? It's like a mental breather. Take a few minutes each day to chill and be present. Focus on your breath, how your body feels, or the sounds around you. It might sound weird, but it helps you stay calm and deal with whatever college throws your way. Exercise isn't just about staying in shape; it's a stress buster. When you work out, your body releases these feel-good chemicals called endorphins. So, find something active you enjoy – whether it's yoga, jogging, or just dancing around in your room. College often messes with your sleep schedule, but getting enough shut-eye is crucial for stress relief. Make your sleeping space comfy, try to go to bed at the same time every night, and put away screens before bedtime. Shoot for 7-9 hours of sleep; it does wonders for your mood and energy. Don't go it alone. Hang out with friends who make you feel good and talk to them about what's going on. Lean on each other when things get tough. Having a support system is like having your own cheering squad for the college rollercoaster. Self-care isn't selfish – it's a way of showing yourself some love. In the chaos of college life, self-care is like your personal life-saver. When you manage your time, stay mindful, stay active, get enough sleep, and surround yourself with supportive people, college becomes a lot more manageable. College is like a crazy mixtape with highs and lows. By taking care of yourself, you can groove through it all. You're the DJ of your college journey, and self-care is the playlist that keeps you dancing through the ups and downs. So, remember to crank up the self-care volume and enjoy your college experience to the fullest!

Starting on July 31, 2023, at 7pm for a 6-week series