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July 2023 - Getting Back to basics

7/6/2023

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“Keep your face always toward the sunshine, and shadows will fall behind you."
- Walt Whitman
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Photo credit: Maria Orlova @orlovamaria

“In your mind, getting back to something basic means: giving it your attention; acknowledging in your heart, your emotions, that it’s important; committing honestly to it, and making a plan about it.” – Rick Hanson, PhD

I can recall many years ago when I played volleyball, and our team was making unforced errors and beating ourselves, someone on the team would eventually remind us to get back to basics or fundamentals and they’d say, “It all starts with a pass”, meaning when the serve comes over the net, our most basic job was to pass the ball to the setter, and that was the first thing that had to happen before we could even make an offensive play.
 
Over the years, I’ve found getting back to basics or fundamentals a helpful mental tool for getting out of my own way many times. When feeling overwhelmed and not sure which thing to tackle first, get back to basics, start small, one foot in front of the other. This will be different for all of us. This might mean getting up and taking a shower, or making a cup of coffee, scheduling that overdue appointment, feeding the cat, or cleaning the toilet. Whichever is the case, committing to taking the first step towards the most basic task, must happen before you can move forward. 
 
If you're looking to get back to basics and simplify your life, here are some tips that may help:
  1. Declutter: Start by decluttering your physical and digital spaces. Get rid of things you no longer need or use. Simplifying your surroundings can create a sense of calm and clarity.
  2. Prioritize: Identify the most important aspects of your life and focus on them. Determine your values and goals and align your actions with them. Let go of activities or commitments that don't align with your priorities.
  3. Unplug: Take breaks from technology and social media. Spend time connecting with nature, reading books, or engaging in activities that don't involve screens. Unplugging can help you reconnect with yourself and the present moment.
  4. Practice mindfulness: Cultivate mindfulness by paying attention to the present moment without judgment. Engage in activities mindfully, such as eating, walking, or conversing. Being present can increase your appreciation for the simple things in life.
  5. Simplify your schedule: Avoid overcommitting yourself. Learn to say no to activities or events that don't bring you joy or align with your priorities. Create space in your schedule for relaxation, self-care, and quality time with loved ones.
  6. Spend time in nature: Nature has a way of grounding us and helping us reconnect with the essentials. Take walks in the park, go hiking, or spend time gardening. Nature can provide a sense of tranquility and remind us of the beauty in simplicity.
  7. Practice gratitude: Cultivate an attitude of gratitude by focusing on the things you appreciate in your life. Keep a gratitude journal and write down three things you're grateful for each day. Shifting your focus to gratitude can bring a sense of contentment and perspective.
  8. Embrace minimalism: Consider adopting a minimalist lifestyle, where you intentionally own and consume less. Focus on quality over quantity and let go of material possessions that don't serve a purpose or bring you joy. Embracing minimalism can free up mental and physical space.
  9. Reconnect with hobbies: Engage in activities that bring you joy and allow you to express yourself. Rediscover hobbies you may have neglected and make time for them regularly. Hobbies can be a source of fulfillment and help you reconnect with your passions.
  10. Foster meaningful relationships: Invest time and energy in nurturing meaningful relationships with family and friends. Prioritize quality time and deep conversations over superficial interactions. Cultivating strong connections can bring a sense of fulfillment and support.
Remember, getting back to basics is a personal journey, and it may look different for everyone. Take small steps, be patient with yourself, and enjoy the process of simplifying your life.

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Photo credit: Ralph W. Lambrecht
Reminder
Nowadays, inclement weather can be year-round. If you’d like to change your in-person appointment to meeting online, please feel free to do so, but give me a heads up in advance so I don’t travel to the office. If inclement weather prevents us from meeting online, I’ll do my best to reschedule you as soon as possible. ​

A little about me / my practice:
  • My clinical interests and practice focus on helping low-moderate acuity individual adults. I help people cope with anxiety, depression, adjusting to life changes, grief, stress, chronic pain, and non-complex trauma. These are all things that I’ve had experience with at some point in my life. Some of my favorite therapeutic techniques include CBT – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CPT – Cognitive Processing Therapy, Mindfulness-Based techniques, and Integrative Behavioral Health practices. I have a Person-Centered theoretical orientation and enjoy helping people identify and reconnect with their personal strengths toward living a more authentic life. A diagnosis is just a collection of adjectives to describe what you’re dealing with. People who seek out counseling to help improve their functioning by minimizing unpleasant symptoms are H E A L T H Y.   

​I wish you a healthy Summer and look forward to meeting you when the time is right for you. Until then….

 
Tracy Hunt, MSEd, LPCC
Owner, Turning Inward LLC
“Gentle Support for Difficult Times”
937-321-9794
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Spring 2023 At Last!  I hope this newsletter finds you with a healthy and happy start to the Spring season.

3/22/2023

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Photo credit: Tracy Hunt
​“Every flower must grow through dirt."
​Laurie Jean Sennott

Do You Identify as Being a Black Sheep?
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Photo credit: Erik Mclean c/o Pexels, @introspectivedsgn
I meet a lot of people who identify as the "black sheep" of their family. Although the term black sheep may have a negative connotation, the people I meet are anything but. Rather, they are brave and cycle breakers forging their own path in life different from their family of origin. Read on to learn more...

Being the black sheep of the family can be a difficult experience. It means that you are seen as different from the rest of your family, and often not in a positive way. You may feel like you don't fit in, and that you are constantly being judged or criticized by your family members.

There can be many reasons why someone is considered the black sheep of their family. Perhaps they have different interests, beliefs, or values than the rest of their family. Maybe they have made choices or decisions that are not in line with their family's expectations, such as choosing a non-traditional career path, or not following a particular religion.

Being the black sheep of the family can lead to feelings of loneliness, isolation, and even rejection. It can be challenging to maintain a strong relationship with family members who do not accept or understand you. However, it is important to remember that you are not alone, and that there are many people who have had similar experiences.

It may be helpful to seek support from friends, a therapist, or a support group. It may also be beneficial to have an open and honest conversation with your family about how you feel, and to try to find common ground and understanding, if this can be done safely. Ultimately, it is important to prioritize your own well-being and happiness, which may involve using boundaries, distancing yourself from your family, or making difficult choices. Ultimately, you get to decide.

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 - Reminder
Meeting in-person March-October.
​Meeting Online available year-round.


A little about me / my practice:
 My clinical interests and practice focus on helping low-moderate acuity individual adults. I help people cope with anxiety, depression, adjusting to life changes, grief, stress, chronic pain, and non-complex trauma. These are all things that I’ve had experience with at some point in my life. Some of my favorite therapeutic techniques include CBT – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CPT – Cognitive Processing Therapy, Mindfulness-Based techniques, and Creative Expression techniques. I have a Person-Centered theoretical orientation and enjoy helping people identify and reconnect with their personal strengths. A diagnosis is just a collection of adjectives to describe what you’re dealing with. People who seek out counseling to help improve their functioning by minimizing unpleasant symptoms are H E A L T H Y.  

​I wish you a healthy Spring and look forward to meeting you when the time is right for you. Until then….
 
Tracy Hunt, MSEd, LPCC
Owner, Turning Inward LLC
“Gentle Support for Difficult Times”
937-321-9794

​
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Welcome to 2023! I hope this newsletter finds you with a healthy and happy start to the new year.

1/17/2023

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Tracy Hunt, MSEd, LPCC

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Photo credit: Library of Congress
“If I cannot do great things, I can do small things in a great way.”
– Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

I’m a big fan of baby steps, so no New Year Resolutions for me. Rather, I prefer and suggest steady steps in the direction you want to go. The following steps may prove helpful in your personal goal attainment:
  1. Prevent overload by eliminating as many distractions as you can.
  2. You can’t do more than one thing at a time. It takes time for your brain to switch between two things, so stop trying to multitask.
  3. Relieve your mental load by putting tasks and worries on paper instead of overthinking.
  4. When you’re avoiding a task, think of the benefits of getting it done to stop procrastinating.
  5. Zone out with exercise. Physical activity increases dopamine which drives your brain, but let your mind wander while exercising to re-charge your concentration.
  6. Reduce clutter. A messy environment steals your brain’s attention making it difficult to focus.
  7. Seek quiet. Research shows auditory distractions can be disruptive to a brain that’s trying to focus.
  8. Sipping coffee or tea may help increase your ability to focus BUT be mindful most people need 6-10 hours to metabolize caffeine so have it early in the day.
*Adapted from “How to use science to focus at work.” wired.co.uk

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Photo credit: Artem Meletov c/o Pexels.
Upcoming Changes:
  • The Spring thaw brings the return of in-person appointments in March after the time change. Of course, meeting online will remain an option.

A little about me / my practice:
 
My clinical interests and practice focus on helping low-moderate acuity individual adults. I help people cope with anxiety, depression, adjusting to life changes, grief, stress, chronic pain, and non-complex trauma. These are all things that I’ve had experience with at some point in my life. Some of my favorite therapeutic techniques include CBT – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CPT – Cognitive Processing Therapy, Mindfulness-Based techniques, and Creative Expression techniques. I have a Person-Centered theoretical orientation and enjoy helping people identify and reconnect with their personal strengths. A diagnosis is just a collection of adjectives to describe what you’re dealing with. People who seek out counseling to help improve their functioning by minimizing unpleasant symptoms are H E A L T H Y.  
I wish you a healthy Winter and look forward to meeting you when the time is right for you. Until then….

Tracy Hunt, MSEd, LPCC
Owner, Turning Inward LLC
“Gentle Support for Difficult Times”
937-321-9794
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Autumn At last

10/1/2022

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Credit: @Designecologist c/o Pexels
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Credit: @Daiangan c/o Pexels
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Credit: Eleonora Sky c/o Pexels
​Hello All, and if this is your first time visiting my page or receiving my newsletter, a hearty welcome to you.
 
Some changes occurred this summer to include:
 
  • A reduction in no-show / late cancellation fee to $50. 
  • Now accepting AETNA Insurance through the help of Headway, a claims processing/billing company.
  • In July, I began offering a sliding scale to new/returning clients who pay out-of-pocket. Fees are $100-$150 based on income.
  • Clients are welcome to pay for counseling using their insurance out-of-network benefit. Clients may also pay for counseling using their HSA/FSA.
  • In-person appointments continue until the time change in November, at which time I’ll be online only through winter. In-person appointments will resume in March.
 
New News:
 
  • I’m now accepting CIGNA insurance through the help of Headway.
 
A little about me / my practice:
 
  • My clinical interests and practice focus on helping low-moderate acuity individual adults. I help people cope with anxiety, depression, adjusting to life changes, grief, stress, chronic pain and non-complex trauma. These are all things that I’ve had experience with at some point in my life. Some of my favorite therapeutic techniques include CBT – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CPT – Cognitive Processing Therapy, Mindfulness-Based techniques, and Art Therapy techniques. I have a Person-Centered theoretical orientation and enjoy helping people identify and reconnect with their personal strengths. A diagnosis is just a collection of adjectives to describe what we’re dealing with. In my view, people who seek out counseling to help improve their functioning by minimizing unpleasant symptoms are H E A L T H Y.   
 
I wish you a healthy Autumn and look forward to meeting you when the time is right for you. Until then,
 

Tracy Hunt MSEd, LPCC
Turning Inward LLC
Mobile: 937-321-9794

https://www.turninginwardllc.com
 
#turninginwardllc
#anxietycounseling
#depressioncounseling
#griefcounseling
​#chronicpaincounseling
#CBT
#CPT
#arttherapy
#ohiocounselor
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what is cognitive behavioral therapy cbt

6/6/2022

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​Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or CBT is a form of psychotherapy (or ‘talk’ therapy).
It is well researched and has been scientifically validated making it an “evidenced-based treatment”. It focuses on the client’s current difficulties and what is maintaining them. CBT helps treat depression, anxiety, trauma, and other mental health concerns.
 
CBT is a collaborative treatment with active involvement from both therapist and client. Working together, the therapist helps the client recognize problematic thinking patterns and helps the client explore and identify more realistic ways of viewing situations. 
 
Homework is a component of treatment which may include articles to read, relaxation exercises, daily or weekly goals, worksheets to complete, practice identifying errant thinking, and learning to make connections between your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. 
 
CBT is generally considered a short-term therapy with the number of sessions ranging from 5-12 sessions depending upon the individual, their needs, and their commitment to practicing what they learn in their sessions in real life. 
 
As a mental health professional, I really like using CBT with clients as it provides a quick treatment and tools to help ease anxiety, depression, symptoms of trauma and other mental health concerns. CBT teaches coping techniques, that once learned, can continue to be of help throughout your lifespan. Some mental health professionals say that CBT should be taught in school, and I couldn’t agree more.
 
If CBT is a treatment approach that interests you, please feel free to reach out to me to learn more at 937-321-9794. All the best!  
 
Tracy Hunt, MSEd, LPCC
Turning Inward LLC

https://www.turninginwardllc.com

#cbt
#cognitivebehavioraltherapy
#cognitivedistortions
#brieftherapy
#cbtforanxiety
#cbtfordepression
#gad
#copingskills
#successhabits 
#anxietyhelp

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Multitasking is for Computers Not Humans

5/31/2022

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photo credit: Markus Winkler https://www.instagram.com/m23/
If you don’t believe that multitasking is for computers only and not for humans, then let’s think about it another way. How many things can you complete at one time? Think of the ending of a task. You can only finish or complete one thing at a time. 
 
I’ve read before that the term multitasking originated in the 1960’s with the proliferation of computers. Over time, this word has seeped into our everyday vocabulary and has become an ideal for employees to be or do at work--be a multitasker (noun and adjective 🧐) who is multitasking (verb). 
 
Anyway, you might think you are a multitasker who performs multitasks by multitasking, but do you enjoy it? When your focus is split among multiple things at one time, it’s usually stressful and not the ideal or preferred way of being or doing. That may even be the definition of stress: having too much to do and/or focus on at one time without the resources or ability to deal with things one at a time. 
 
When your focus is on one thing at a time, you can relax into it, think, arrive at a resolution, and peacefully complete the task at hand. Aah, now isn’t that better?

#multitasking
#multitaskingisforcomputers
#multitaskingisnotforhumans
#onethingatatime
#lessstress
#focusononethingatatime
​#slowdown
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What is your reason for being?

5/23/2022

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COVID-19 brought much loss and significant changes to our way of life that may have left you wondering what is the meaning or purpose of my life? Perhaps you are re-defining your priorities or searching for new meaning different from your pre-COVID-19 life. 

“When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.” ― Viktor E. Frankl

This is why I'm so excited to read and discuss with others "Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life." The word "Ikigai" is a Japanese word with no direct English translation but essentially means the reason you get up in the morning.  Topics covered include:
  • little things for a long and happy life
  • turning work and free time into spaces for growth
  • wisdom from Centenarians
  • finding flow state
  • diet and exercise for health and longevity
  • facing challenges without stress and worry
​
Yes, I am charging for participating in this 4-week book club/support group because so many (me included) need "buy in" or commitment in order to follow through. I’m hopeful that for those of you doing well but in need of help re-defining priorities and finding new meaning that perhaps this low-key book club/support group journey is just what you need and if so, the $200 price is a lot less than months of therapy. I hope to see you soon!

​Contact: Tracy.Hunt@TurningInwardLLC.com.

#bookclub
#supportgroup
#Ikigai
#longevity
#onlinebookclub
#onlinesupportgroup
​#findingmeaning
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The "Happy Hour Book Club & Support Group"

5/16/2022

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I’m happy to announce the name of the self-help book club/support group as, “The Happy Hour Book Club/Support Group”.  The book for June and additional details are announced below.  
 
Who: Tracy Hunt MSEd, LPCC & Life Coach of Turning Inward, LLC will facilitate. Small group format.
 
What:  June 2022 Book: “Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life” by Garcia & Miralles
 
Where: Private Facebook Group, Facebook Rooms for live chats
 
When: 4-Wednesdays June 8-29, 6-7pm EDT
 
Why: Life Improvement, Personal Development, Self-Growth, Emotional Intelligence, Higher Consciousness, Self-Help, Healthy Relationships, Authentic Living, Relaxation, Inner Peace
 
How: DM or Email Tracy Hunt to sign-up: Tracy.Hunt@TurningInwardLLC.com. To secure your spot: $200 paid in full before June 8.
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A rotating small book club and support group in 1.

5/9/2022

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I'm happy to announce I'll soon be launching an upcoming self-help book club/support group. This is a passion project of mine that I've been thinking about for years!

​Details:
​Commitment: $200 + your time spent reading + showing up for 4 live weekly FB chats.
 
The goal is to carve out some “you time”, relax, learn, be supported, be supportive, put what you learn into practice, show up for the weekly online chats in FB Rooms. If you cannot make a weekly chat or all the weekly chats, you are still welcome to sign-up and participate as a member in the private FB group. You will have access to the private FB group for the duration of the 1-month program.
 
There will group rules, (e.g. don't be rude) which if broken you will be out of the group.
 
The fee is non-refundable. The fee is symbolic of your commitment and investment in yourself. Are you ready?
 
PS: If the current month’s book/topic is not for you, not to worry! Since this is a rotating book club, the books/topics will change. You may sign-up for my newsletter to stay informed of upcoming books. If you have questions, please email me at Tracy.Hunt@TurningInwardLLC.com.

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    Author: Tracy Hunt MSEd, LPCC in Ohio


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  • Home
  • Services
    • Anxiety Counseling
    • Depression Counseling
    • Grief Counseling
    • Non-Complex Trauma / PTSD Counseling
  • About Me
  • Contact Info
  • Blog
  • Insurance / Payment
  • Location / Online
  • Client Portal