Therapy Judges, But Doesn’t Shame

Some of us live in the world of Platonic forms. The ancient Greek philosopher Plato believed that the world of … More

What Psychoanalysis and CBT Can Teach Us about Battling Misinformation

Our understanding of the mind dating back to Freud tells us the same story repeatedly: we use defenses, or “biases” … More

Running from Fear and Self-Doubt

You can’t evade the profound uncertainty of love, and, more importantly, of life. Those with avoidant personalities fall into two … More

The Drug of Self-Love

We’re notorious overthinkers, creating meaning out of every detail encountered. Yet, our self-concepts are more burdensome than exhilarating, causing us … More

The Power of Delusions

Self-importance is akin to cocaine. Social Psychologist David Myers discovered what he labeled “The Lake Wobegon Effect.” Based on a … More

Knowing Why to Quit

My rigidity is a gift and a curse. On the one hand, I’m determined; on the hand, I’m quite stubborn. … More

Fostering Dignity: How Tyranny Creates People-Pleasing Behavior

Sometimes, you’re just someone who has nothing to say. The avoidant personality type is marked by extreme shyness, fear of … More

Don’t You Dare Pity Me!: Why Some Refuse to Accept Sympathy

Trauma begets rage, and rage veils vulnerability. Many view sympathy with scorn, refusing to be cast under its spotlight. Therapists … More

The Consolations of Psychotherapy: Why the Question of “Why Did This Happen to Me?” Doesn’t Make Sense

There is no why to suffering, only a how. How did it affect you? How did it change your outlook, … More

Understanding Shame as the Source of Depression: How Learned Hopefulness Can Backfire

With great power comes great responsibility, the degree of which most of us can’t handle. Kennon Sheldon, one of the … More