Blog

By: Dr. Brittany Carswell It’s one of the most common refrains in couples therapy: “We just need to communicate better.” And while communication is undeniably important, it’s not the full story. In fact, focusing only on what’s being said—without looking at what’s happening in the nervous system—can miss the deeper forces shaping your relationship. The truth is, you can’t “technique”...[ read more ]

By Dr. Brittany Carswell Last month we started talking about intensive therapy in general, so this month we are going to dig in deeper into one specific form of intensives designed specially for couples. When couples come to therapy, it’s often because something important feels broken—trust, communication, connection, or safety. And when that disconnection has been building for months or...[ read more ]

By: Dr. Brittany Carswell If you’ve ever felt like traditional weekly therapy leaves you just scratching the surface, you’re not alone. For many individuals and couples, the standard 50-minute session simply isn’t enough time to dive deep into core issues, process complex emotions, and create lasting change. That’s where therapy intensives come in—and neuroscience helps explain why they’re so effective....[ read more ]

By: Dr. Brittany Carswell In the fast-paced world we live in, time is a precious resource—especially for high-achieving professionals, busy parents, and couples juggling careers, family, and everything in between. For those looking to make meaningful progress in therapy but feeling frustrated with the pace of traditional weekly sessions, therapy intensives offer an alternative path that is focused, immersive, and...[ read more ]

  By: Dr. Brittany Carswell In the fast-paced world we live in, time is a precious resource—especially for high-achieving professionals, busy parents, and couples juggling careers, family, and everything in between. For those looking to make meaningful progress in therapy but feeling frustrated with the pace of traditional weekly sessions, therapy intensives offer an alternative path that is focused, immersive,...[ read more ]

Being a high-performing professional comes with rewards—career success, financial stability, and personal achievement. However, when high-functioning anxiety accompanies this drive, it can create unique challenges in relationships. While outwardly successful, individuals with high-functioning anxiety often struggle with perfectionism, overcommitment, and difficulty slowing down. These traits, when left unaddressed, can cause disconnection, misunderstandings, and tension between partners. For couples where one...[ read more ]

High-functioning anxiety is a term that describes individuals who experience persistent anxiety yet appear highly successful, organized, and accomplished. Unlike generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), which can significantly impair daily functioning, high-functioning anxiety often drives individuals to perform at an exceptionally high level. However, beneath the surface, these individuals may struggle with excessive worry, perfectionism, and self-doubt. In Tampa Bay, Florida,...[ read more ]

Understanding Our Need for Certainty Uncertainty is an inevitable part of life, yet many of us struggle to cope with it. Whether it's political changes, economic instability, or personal challenges, uncertainty can trigger anxiety and stress. But why do we crave control so much (I know I do- more than I like to admit!) And how can we learn to...[ read more ]

Understanding Anxiety in Uncertain Times Living in an ever-changing world can bring about feelings of uncertainty, which often trigger anxiety. The last several months have brought lots of change and uncertainty.  For residents of St. Petersburg, FL, and the Tampa Bay Area uncertainties might include shifting economic conditions, hurricane season and several recent storms that affected many of us. This...[ read more ]

As we step into 2025, the opportunity to grow, learn, and evolve is more abundant than ever. However, personal growth often comes with challenges, self-doubt, and the ever-present voice of self-criticism. Cultivating a growth mindset—the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort and persistence—can transform the way you approach these hurdles. By shifting from self-criticism to self-compassion,...[ read more ]