Travis Kern, MS LPC

06/30/2023

This is such a wonderful, quick read for all parents on the importance of attending to their child's emotional state. It's not a parent's job to protect their child from painful emotions, but to help them make sense, process, express, and cope with those emotions when they inevitably encounter them.

Pure Desire Ministries | Your Safe Place to Find Hope & Healing

05/14/2020

When we are able to see the things that we don't like about others (our partner, kids, co-workers, family, etc.) as opportunities for personal growth rather than things we feel like we need to change, our ability to show love to others and ourselves increases dramatically.

04/08/2020

P.S. If you'd like to receive a FREE daily uplifting quote to help support you through depression click the link below: http://www.thedepressionproject.com/supportive-encouraging-daily-quotes

04/06/2020

Small daily goals can be helpful in helping us stay motivated and focused when the stress of uncertainty can make our minds feel out of control. Expectations, whether on ourselves or others, often lead to disappointment and shame. Be mindful of the expectations you place upon yourself and others and instead turn towards yourself and others with compassion and acceptance.

03/29/2020

We are all handling these times differently. If you feel that you are having a more difficult time coping than the friends you see on social media, know that is nothing to be ashamed of. It just means your needs are different than theirs. Remember to practice self-care daily and to seek comfort when you feel discouraged. We will make it through this together.

03/26/2020

Effective communication is key during this time of quarantining here are 3 tips to help facilitate effective communication.
1.) Instead of blaming or focusing on what someone else may be doing that's upsetting you, focus on communicating your needs and emotions in the situation.
2.) Pay attention to how communication concerning needs start. Do they begin harshly and irritated? Or do they begin calmly and gently? How conversations begin often determine what direction conversations end up going. Will the conversation be full of conflict and defensiveness? Or will it contain open communication and effective problem solving?
3.) Be aware of your assumptions. Often times we assume that we can read the minds of those around us and that we know how they are feeling or what they want. This can often lead to miscommunication, frustration, and conflict. The more aware of our assumptions we are, the better we can be at avoiding conflicts that they cause.

03/24/2020

Quarantining with someone doesn't give them the ability to read ours minds. Communicating our needs and setting healthy boundaries can help keep our quarantines peaceful.