Growing Connections Counseling, LLC

Photo of the week: Goldenrod. In some settings, goldenrod has been used to symbolize new beginnings. This is interesting because it blooms at the end of summer. Sometimes we say that in autumn “everything is dying.” But this isn’t true. It is a season when nature moves inside. The plants are going through a natural and necessary change. Much like humans, plants cannot produce constantly. Some animals hibernate or become less active. Autumn can seem like a cozy time, a time of moving inward, toward introspection. It is a new beginning in that way. It is a new shift.

During this season, some find the change of light, the change in nature, brings about a depression. This is a time for gentleness with the self. Take time to slow down and have conscious breathing breaks. During those breathing breaks, think–or even say out loud–kind and comforting statements to yourself.

In the upper right corner of this photo, there is a bright red color. This is a rose that I did not expect to see when I took this photo. Roses often symbolize love. In this time of new introspection, may we find a bright spot of self-love.

What is autumn for you? What memories do you have? How do you use this season?

Photo of the week: connection. Gathering together, connection, is important for personal growth. I thought I would give you more information about the group counseling sessions being offered. The group is for adults who would like to find ways to improve their relationships and to gain more insight into who they are. People of all ages, genders, and belief systems are invited. Group therapy invites vulnerability as well as connection with those whom you may not have expected to learn from. It can be a very powerful experience. What questions do you have?

Do you ever feel alone in the world? Feeling alone seems to be a common experience. One benefit of group therapy is that it can help to combat that feeling. Group therapy is not quite the same as a support group. While both groups are supportive, group therapy has a professional present who has the ability to offer skills and techniques. It can be a more affordable option for therapy and there is the benefit of hearing from many perspectives.

Group therapy can come in different formats, including art therapy, experiential therapy, psycho-educational, and talk therapy. Groups are usually small–fewer that eight people. Topics can range from grief groups to LGBTQ+ groups, or groups for people suffering from depression or trauma. Sometimes the groups will simply be people talking about their experiences, other times it may begin with some activity to begin conversation.

Something that may be surprising in group therapy is the use of silence. There may be lulls in the conversation. This can make some people uncomfortable. Silence, though, allows for ideas to sink in and possibly grow deep insights. Silence is valuable.

I will be offering a six week group counseling experience for those living near Springfield, Missouri. It will be in person and space is limited. The group will help those who attend to develop relationships both within themselves and with others. Sessions will begin Monday, October 3 from 5:30pm-7pm, and continue each Monday (excluding October 31) until November 14. If you would like more information or to enroll, contact me at 417-501-5262 or gailh@gailherbertcounseling.com.