Depression

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Autism Acceptance Month: Supporting Neurodiversity in Individuals, Couples, and Families

Each April, Autism Awareness Month invites us to pause and reflect on how we understand and support individuals on the autism spectrum. In recent years, there has been an important shift from simply raising awareness to genuine acceptance. This shift matters. Awareness acknowledges that autism exists, acceptance asks us to respond with respect, curiosity, and […]

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Exploring Generational Differences in Therapy: Why We Experience Stress So Differently

Each generation is shaped by distinct cultural forces that deeply influence how we experience and respond to stress. When we name those patterns with care and context, it becomes easier to understand ourselves, our families, and our relationships across generations. In this edition of our blog series Exploring Generational Differences in Therapy, we’ll dive into

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A Therapist’s Toolkit: How Therapists Use Somatic Awareness to Support Trauma Recovery

Trauma doesn’t just live in memory—it lives in the body. If you’ve ever noticed your heart racing when recalling a difficult moment or felt “numb” during stress, you’ve already experienced your nervous system’s role in holding trauma. In therapy, somatic awareness is one way we begin to bridge this gap between body and mind. At Steffen Counseling

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Understanding Nontraditional Grief: When Loss Doesn’t Fit the Expected Story

What is nontraditional grief? When most people think of grief, they picture mourning a clear, traditional loss—like the death of a loved one. Yet grief often appears in less recognized ways. Nontraditional grief, sometimes called disenfranchised grief, happens when we experience a loss that others may not view as significant or worthy of mourning. These

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Understanding Referrals to a Higher Level of Care: What It Means and What to Expect

When you work with a therapist, their goal is to help you heal and grow through the level of care that fits your needs. Sometimes, that care may include stepping into what’s called a higher level of care in therapy. While it can sound intimidating, this step is actually a proactive and supportive way to make

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Rainy Season, Restless Mind: How EMDR Can Help When Seattle Winters Feels Extra Heavy

Why Seattle Winters Hit So Hard Seattle winters bring short days, gray skies, and long stretches indoors, which can quickly intensify low mood, anxiety, and isolation. When you already carry stress or trauma, this seasonal heaviness often lands harder because your nervous system is already working overtime to stay regulated. For many people, winter becomes

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Understanding Complex Trauma: Healing and Treatment Options for Lasting Recovery

Complex trauma shapes emotions, relationships, and sense of self through ongoing, repeated, or long-term traumatic experiences—often beginning in childhood. Therapeutic support helps many people build safety, reduce symptoms, and create a life that feels more grounded and connected. What is complex trauma? Repeated or prolonged traumatic experiences, such as childhood abuse or neglect, domestic violence,

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