Simple Payment Option

Hello to all Prospective Patients,

I have now added a PayPal icon for easier payment! This can be used in lieu of cash or check payment and also to secure your initial diagnostic appointment.

I look forward to working with you.

Sincerely,
Karen Israel, LPC

Asking For Help

Sometimes we get so used to the status quo; the uncomfortable comfortability of our old habits, that we are afraid to make any changes or don't even realize that we have choices. We offer up so many excuses, to others or simply in our own heads, that we can't do anything about our problems. Excuses like:

1) It's out of my hands

2) I don't know how

3) I've tried and my efforts didn't work

4) It'll/He'll/She'll/They'll never change

5) It's just too hard

Well, I'm here to tell you, respectfully, that you are wrong :) And the solution to your error lies in three words...all you must do is take the chance and ASK FOR HELP.

::enter the next slew of excuses::

1) I don't think anyone can help

2) I can't afford it

3) I give up

If you find someone who seems trustworthy; someone who could understand and offer empathy; someone you feel comfortable with, then give yourself a chance. Give them a chance, they may surprise you. Therapists and counselors are here to help... help you see your choices, help you take charge of what happens to you.

If you keep doing what you've always done, you'll get what you've always gotten.

Excuse or Reason?

What's the differnece between...an Excuse and a Reason? The answer to this question can teach you how to overcome your barriers to change and free you to take the necessary responsibility for your life.

Let's begin with the Excuse. First of all, the Excuse naturally serves to excuse us from our bad behavior. Unfortunately, there is seldom an honest excuse for that. The Excuse is our way of shrugging repsonsibility for what we said or did that hurt or offended someone-- whether intentional or not. We use the Excuse as a defense mechanism to keep from feeling appropriate guilt or shame for our wrongdoings. Based on the particular offense, this guilt or shame occurs on a continuum: from very mild to very severe. However we have offended others, or even ourselves, the healthiest thing to do is to hold ourselves accountable. This is part of being an adult.

Now, let's explore the Reason. The reason serves to explain the events that lead up to our transgression. It offers and opportunity for us, as well as others, to understand and perhaps better accept what has transpired. The Reason does not Excuse our bad behavior. Exploring the reasons behind an offense is the first step to accountability for our words and actions.

The next step is to learn from the reasons, identify patterns, pay attention to behaviors, and make the choice to change.

So, next time you make a mistake, mild or grave... will you offer an excuse? Or find the reason and become accountable?