Better Mental Health: Princeton Counseling Service

Professional, caring counselors for the challenging times in your life.

Journal Prompts to Start Healing From Depression

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Healing from depression can feel overwhelming, especially if professional support isn’t accessible. While therapy is a powerful resource, not everyone has the time or money to dedicate to this form of healing. On the other hand, journaling is a free and effective tool to begin understanding and expressing your thoughts. Writing prompts around depression can help you bypass the mental fog you’re dealing with and focus on healing. 

Do You Need to Be a Writer to Benefit From Journaling? 

You don’t need to be a writer to benefit! Simply engaging with thoughtful journal prompts daily or weekly can start shifting your mindset and clarifying your emotions when things get tough. Here are a few prompts to help you get started: 

  1. “What would I say to a friend who felt like I do right now?” 

  2. “What does my depression need me to know today?” 

  3. “What used to bring me joy, and how might I reconnect with it?” 

  4. “What thoughts have been weighing on me the most this week?” 

  5. “How would I like to feel three months from now?” 

Journaling can become an empowering routine that supports awareness and emotional release, especially during hard moments when connection feels distant. Use these prompts as a safe space to explore your inner world when bad feelings creep up. 

Go a Step Further With Depression Therapy 

Working with a mental health provider adds structure and insight to your healing journey. If you’re ready to go deeper, therapy can help uncover the root causes of your depression and offer you tools to create lasting change. Our team is here to support your comfort and growth—reach out to begin your path forward with depression therapy. 

Filed Under: journaling

Recognizing the Signs of Depression and When to Seek Help

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Depression is more than occasional sadness. This condition can affect every area of life, from relationships to work and your daily routine. Recognizing the signs early is key to getting the right support from a mental health provider who knows what they’re doing. Depression therapy at our practice creates a structured environment to explore these challenges and work toward a healthier mindset. Know that with the right therapeutic approach, healing is possible, and life can feel manageable—even full of joy!—once more. 

Identifying Depression by Its Symptoms

Depression symptoms vary, making it difficult to effectively diagnose if you’re not a professional. However, these are some signs to keep an eye out for: 

  • Ongoing feelings of hopelessness 

  • Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed 

  • Changes in sleep or appetite 

  • Difficulty concentrating 

Some people also experience physical symptoms, such as headaches, fatigue, or stomach issues, that don’t have a clear medical explanation. If symptoms last longer than two weeks, interfere with daily responsibilities, or impact your relationships, it’s time to connect with a mental health professional. Therapy not only reduces the severity of depression symptoms but also teaches strategies for long-term resilience and emotional balance. 

Addressing Depression Through Therapy 

Evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) help individuals identify negative thought patterns and develop ways to cope. Other therapies, such as interpersonal therapy, focus on improving communication and relationships, which often play a role in emotional health. The main thing is to act quickly. If you or someone you love is experiencing signs of depression, don’t wait to take action. Reach out to a depression therapist today to begin the path toward recovery. Our team is here to help!

Filed Under: loneliness

Creative Ideas for Improving Communication in Your Relationship

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Whether conducted in the United States or far off lands, many surveys find the number one reason for divorce is poor communication. Beyond having different communication styles, issues often arise when both partners are not comfortable talking about their feelings.

The good news is, talking about feelings is not the only, or even necessarily the best, way for couples to maintain a happy and healthy relationship.

Here are some ideas to improve communication in your own relationship:

Small Talk Offers Big Gains

While you may assume that discussing the impending nor’ easter or last night’s season finale is far from connecting emotionally, the truth is, small talk can positively impact communication even more than discussion about feelings. Many couples find it easier to reconnect over the mundane events of life rather than during a serious discussion, most likely because they each feel safer in the mundane space.

The key is to really engage during these small talk sessions. Be interested and curious. Ask questions. By doing this you let your partner know they matter and you care. In the end, life is woven together by strings of insignificant incidents.

Share Commonalities

A recent study published in Psychological Science found that partners feel closer to each other when discussing shared experiences. For instance, many spouses can come together when discussing their children, particularly if they are remembering happy moments.

A second study published in Psychological Science uncovered something very interesting! It turns out that words are not even necessary for shared experiences to improve relationships. Silent communication from enjoying an experience can also heal. Doing something together like riding bikes, going to a movie on date night, or even shopping for new lawn chairs can help you reconnect.

Balance Asking and Offering

Good communication is a dance where the man and woman take turns leading. This means sometimes YOU need to offer up the information and share something about yourself. It could be something as simple as what happened to you in line yesterday at Starbucks.

Other times, let your partner share what they want. Be sure to ask questions and actually LISTEN to the answers. If you don’t understand something they’ve said, ask for clarification. This is a wonderful way to show them you care and are fully engaged.

These communication ideas are deceptively simple, but don’t let their simplicity fool you. If you use these techniques you will find your skills improve and your relationship deepens. And, if you feel you need more help in the communication department, seeking guidance from a therapist is a great idea.

If you or a loved one is interested in exploring treatment, please contact me today. I would be happy to speak with you about how I may be able to help.

Filed Under: Couples/Marriage

Encouraging Conversations About Mental Health Within the Family Unit

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Talking openly about mental health with your family is not always easy. For many parents and children, these conversations feel uncomfortable or off-limits. Yet the research shows that families who create space for honest dialogue experience stronger emotional bonds and fewer conflicts. Family counseling is one way to develop healthier communication and normalize discussions around feelings, struggles, and mental health needs. 

Why Should You Talk Openly About Mental Health?

Every family faces challenges, whether it’s navigating a teenager’s mood swings, handling sibling rivalry, or adjusting to major life changes. When they avoid talking about mental health, the why behind the behavior, small issues can easily become larger conflicts. A child who feels misunderstood may act out, while parents under stress may respond with frustration rather than patience. Counseling breaks this cycle by offering new perspectives. 

Types of Family-Oriented Counseling

You have options besides traditional family counseling! Parent-child therapy provides an environment where children can express themselves and parents learn how to listen and respond. These sessions uncover unhealthy communication patterns and give families tools to handle disagreements. Parenting coaching is another approach, equipping caregivers with strategies to guide children through stressful moments, encourage resilience, and teach them how to respond calmly in difficult situations. 

Setting the Family Up for Success

Creating space for open dialogue about mental health strengthens relationships within the family unit and promotes long-term well-being. Family counseling can offer much-needed support to start these important conversations. Want to learn more? Get in touch with our team today. Our family therapists are ready to help you build stronger connections. 

Filed Under: relationships

Building a Healthier Relationship With Couples Therapy… Even If Things Are “Fine”!

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Too many people think couples therapy is only for relationships in crisis. In reality, working with a couples therapist provides benefits for relationships at any stage, such as strengthening communication, learning how to address conflicts, and deepening emotional intimacy. If you’ve ever considered speaking to a couples therapist, let this be your sign that it’s time to give it a try and see what counseling can do for you and your relationship! 

The Many Wonderful Benefits of Couples Counseling

Couples counseling exists not just to help you and your partner through a rough patch, but to build a foundation for lasting love. What does this mean for you? No matter where you are in your relationship—dating, newlyweds, married 10+ years—a couples therapist will be able to provide you with valuable advice. In sessions, you will: 

  • Develop healthier communication patterns 

  • Learn important conflict resolution strategies 

  • Reignite emotional and physical intimacy (if it was ever lost!) 

  • Dive deep into important milestones, general values, and your future plans to make sure you’re both on the same page 

Couples therapy isn’t just a solution; it’s also a form of prevention. By addressing minor issues early, even if things seem “fine,” couples strengthen trust and avoid problems later. 

Getting Started at Our Practice 

Whether your relationship feels rocky or strong, couples therapy at our practice can help you grow together. Get in touch with our team today to learn how you can invest in your relationship. Have specific concerns? Ask if any of our providers have that specialty! 

Filed Under: relationship problems

Individual Therapy: How One-on-One Counseling Supports Healing

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Have you thought about attending therapy, but were worried about being judged? Maybe you’re picturing a group setting with everyone taking turns, like you’ve seen in movies. It doesn’t have to be that way! Individual therapy allows people to explore emotions, behaviors, and thought patterns in private. Working one-on-one with a personal therapist creates opportunities for deep self-discovery and healing, and you’ll be able to target your specific concerns without worrying about taking too much time or boring an audience. 

The Therapeutic Relationship

The bond between client and therapist is often central to progress. Individual therapy provides a safe, confidential space to explore yourself without judgment. You can go at your own pace, exploring past traumas and/or current challenges one by one. Mental health professionals are bound by ethical and legal obligations to keep your information private, so you don’t have to worry about your therapist spilling your deepest secrets. 

What Individual Therapy Can Help With 

The beautiful thing about individual therapy is the flexibility. Because you’re the only focus of each session, you can address just about anything. People might come to therapy for: 

  • Managing anxiety and depression 

  • Working through grief and trauma 

  • Developing coping strategies for stress 

  • Building healthier self-esteem and confidence 

Whatever your reason, healing can only begin when you take the first step. Our therapists are ready to walk beside you on this journey to a happier, healthier version of yourself. Reach out today to schedule your first individual therapy session with a member of our team. We can’t wait to meet you! 

Filed Under: therapy

Addressing Infidelity and Finding Hope Again Through Couples Therapy

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Infidelity can cause immense pain in a relationship. The feelings of betrayal, confusion, anger, and sadness are all-consuming in the moment. For many couples, discovering or admitting infidelity shakes the very core of their relationship and may be the end of many happy (or not-so-happy) years together. However, couples therapy can offer a constructive path forward for those who want to work through this rough patch and come out the other side. With compassionate support, it’s possible to understand the reasons behind infidelity, rebuild broken trust, and decide together what the future holds. 

How Couples Therapy Helps Heal Infidelity Issues 

Couples therapy provides a neutral, guided space to talk through painful emotions. A trained couples therapist will ensure both partners feel heard and validated while steering the conversation toward healing and resolution. Therapy can help couples: 

  • Rebuild emotional safety and communication 

  • Explore what led to the breach of trust 

  • Learn conflict resolution tools and emotional regulation 

  • Create new relational boundaries and agreements 

  • Decide whether they want to move forward together and how 

Recovery from infidelity is never instant, and it may not follow a linear path. Some couples find renewed connection and clarity right away; others find peace in deciding to part ways. Regardless of the outcome, therapy will provide insight, healing, and empowerment. 

Reconnecting and Rebuilding Together 

Whether you’re seeking reconciliation or closure, professional guidance can lead you toward healing. Working with a couples therapist who specializes in infidelity issues allows you to process pain and rebuild connection in a structured, supportive setting. Ready to start healing? Contact us today to schedule your first couples therapy session and take the first step toward gaining trust and hope once more. 

Filed Under: relationships

What Is High-Functioning Anxiety? Signs, Symptoms, and How to Cope

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High-functioning anxiety can be difficult to recognize, even for those living with it. On the outside, a person may appear driven, punctual, organized, and calm under pressure. Internally, though, they are battling constant self-doubt, chronic stress, and a mind that never shuts off. Because their achievements mask the distress, many people with high-functioning anxiety go undiagnosed and untreated. 

Common Signs of High-Functioning Anxiety 

Signs of high-functioning anxiety may include: 

  • Overthinking and over-preparing for every situation 

  • A persistent fear of failure despite accomplishments 

  • Difficulty relaxing or feeling guilt when not being productive 

  • Perfectionism and the need to always “do more” 

  • Irritability or internal restlessness 

Many people with high-functioning anxiety are successful students, professionals, or caregivers. Their anxiety fuels achievement, but at a high cost. 

How Anxiety Therapy Can Help 

Anxiety therapy can be a powerful resource for managing this condition. A licensed therapist can help you identify negative thought patterns and build healthier ways to respond to stress. Therapists can also help you set boundaries, process underlying trauma, and reconnect with your values beyond productivity. Evidence-based approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) are especially effective. These methods focus on building awareness of anxiety triggers, developing coping strategies, and reframing internal narratives. 

You Deserve to Be More Than Just “Functioning” 

High-functioning anxiety is a real thing, but you don’t have to live in this constant state of mental overdrive. Reach out today to speak with a therapist who specializes in anxiety therapy and discover what life feels like when peace becomes part of your success story. 

Filed Under: high functioning-anxiety

4 Signs You’re Emotionally Exhausted (and What to Do About It)

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Emotional exhaustion doesn’t always hit like a lightning bolt. It can build slowly, becoming more draining over time until you realize you’re running on empty. Many people push through stress until they reach that breaking point, unsure why they’re constantly tired, disengaged, or overwhelmed. But if left unaddressed, emotional exhaustion, which is a core symptom of burnout, can affect your health, relationships, and general sense of self. 

4 Key Signs You May Be Emotionally Exhausted 

Here are some big signs to look out for: 

Sign #1: Constant Fatigue 

Even after a full night’s rest, you feel physically and emotionally drained. 

Sign #2: Irritability or Numbness 

You snap easily or, alternatively, feel indifferent toward things you used to enjoy. 

Sign #3: Mental Fog or Lack of Motivation 

Tasks that were once routine now feel overwhelming or pointless. 

Sign #4: Withdrawal From Others 

You may isolate, cancel plans, or feel too depleted to connect. 

These symptoms can stem from chronic stress at work, caregiving responsibilities, trauma, or simply being stretched too thin for too long. 

How Therapy Can Help You Recover 

Emotional exhaustion is more than just “being tired.” It’s a sign your nervous system is in need of rest. Therapy offers a space to explore what’s contributing to your burnout and develop personalized strategies for healing. Working with a therapist, you can: 

  • Reclaim energy through boundary-setting and self-care 

  • Process underlying grief, trauma, or emotional weight 

  • Reconnect with your purpose and passions 

  • Rebuild a life rooted in balance and self-compassion 

If you’re feeling mentally spent, you’re not alone, and help is available. Connect with a therapist today to begin your journey out of burnout and toward emotional renewal. 

Filed Under: emotional neglect

Therapy for Men: Breaking the Stigma and Finding the Right Therapeutic Fit

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proach. They may be seeking strategies to tackle relationship issues or stress in the workplace. They may simply want a judgment-free space to safely process anger, vulnerability, or past trauma. Whether you’re facing a specific issue or simply feeling “off,” therapy with a men’s issues therapist can help you reconnect with your values, improve emotional regulation, and build healthier relationships. 

Take the First Step Toward Real Change 

There’s nothing unmanly about wanting to feel better, communicate more clearly, or live more fully. Contact us today to connect with a men’s issues therapist who will hear you out and help you walk a path that honors both your mental health and your masculinity. 

Filed Under: therapy