Reflections Mental Health, LLC

08/19/2026

Taya Herum, LCSW | Do Fidgets Really Help?

From fidget spinners to NeeDoh toys, fidgets seem to be everywhere these days—especially in therapists' offices. But why?

Research suggests that fidget tools can help some people stay focused and regulate their emotions by providing calming sensory input. Keeping your hands busy can help your brain stay alert, reduce restless energy, and make it easier to pay attention during challenging or repetitive tasks.

That said, fidgets aren't one-size-fits-all. For some people, using a fidget actually takes extra mental effort and can make it harder to concentrate. If you're paying more attention to the fidget than the task at hand, it becomes more of a distraction than a helpful tool.

The key is finding what works for you. Therapy is a great place to explore your sensory preferences, learn what helps you feel calm and focused, and discover whether fidget tools are a good fit.

Ready to take the next step? Visit reflectionsmhwi.com or email us at [email protected] to learn more or schedule a free consultation call.

08/17/2026

Lauren Gordon, LPC | Looking Beyond the Behavior
When children struggle with attention, impulsivity, emotional outbursts, or difficulty following directions, it's easy to focus on the behavior itself. But behavior is communication.

Children with ADHD-related symptoms often experience the world differently. Their challenges can be shaped not only by differences in attention and executive functioning, but also by the quality of their relationships and sense of emotional safety.

Attachment plays an important role in how children learn to regulate emotions, build confidence, and respond to stress. Understanding the "why" behind a child's behavior helps families move away from frustration and toward connection, compassion, and effective support.

As a child and adolescent therapist, I work with young people and their caregivers to better understand the unique factors influencing behavior, including ADHD-related symptoms, emotional regulation, and attachment experiences.

Together, we build practical strategies that strengthen coping skills, improve communication, and foster healthier relationships at home, school, and beyond.

Every child has strengths, and with the right support, they can develop the skills and confidence to thrive while families gain a deeper understanding of how to respond in ways that nurture growth and connection.

Ready to take the next step? Visit reflectionsmhwi.com or email us at [email protected] to learn more or schedule a free consultation call.

08/14/2026

08/13/2026

Taya Herum, LCSW | The Power of Naming Emotions

Why is it helpful to have a strong vocabulary for emotions and feelings?

For children, having lots of words to describe emotions can make a big difference. Research shows that kids who hear and use more emotion words tend to develop stronger social and emotional skills.

Studies have also found that simply putting a name to a difficult emotion, like anger or sadness, can help calm the brain. When we label what we're feeling, the part of the brain responsible for self-control and emotional regulation becomes more active, while the fight-or-flight response becomes less reactive. This is often summarized by the phrase: "Name it to tame it."

Researchers like Dr. Kristen Lindquist and Dr. Lisa Feldman Barrett have also found that language plays an important role in how we experience emotions. Having the right words helps us understand what we're feeling, make sense of our body's signals, and respond in healthier, more effective ways.

That's why feelings charts, feelings wheels, and other emotion-learning tools are an important part of therapy with me and with all of our clinicians at Reflections Mental Health.

Ready to take the next step? Visit reflectionsmhwi.com or email us at [email protected] to learn more or schedule a free consultation call.

08/11/2026

Allison Ommodt, LPC | Celebrating Neurodiversity

Working with neurodivergent clients, particularly those with ADHD and Autism, is one of the most meaningful parts of my work. I strive to create a space where people feel accepted, understood, and empowered to embrace who they are.

I believe every mind is valid, capable, and worthy of support. It's important to challenge the stigma that often surrounds neurodivergence and create spaces where people feel accepted for who they are.

In therapy, I help clients explore their identities without shame, encourage environments that adapt to individual needs rather than forcing conformity, and highlight strengths alongside challenges.

Everyone deserves to feel understood, supported, and empowered to thrive just as they are.

Ready to take the next step? Visit reflectionsmhwi.com or email us at [email protected] to learn more or schedule a free consultation call.

08/07/2026

Anthony Hying, LCSW | Forging Resilience

When I'm welding, I'm always struck by how much it mirrors the work of therapy. Sparks fly, heat rises, and two pieces of metal that once felt separate begin to fuse into something stronger and more resilient.

Healing often looks the same.

It's not always quiet or gentle. Sometimes it's intense, uncomfortable, and full of moments where you're not sure how the pieces will come together. But with focus, intention, and support, they do.

In therapy, we take the fractured, stressed, or worn-down parts of your story and work together to rebuild them into something solid—something that can hold weight, withstand pressure, and carry you forward.

Strength isn't accidental. It's crafted.

Ready to take the next step? Visit reflectionsmhwi.com or email us at [email protected] to learn more or schedule a free consultation call.

08/06/2026

Reflections Horror Movie Survival Part 3! Nate Willkomm, LPC chooses owner Beckah Mahan-Strupp, LPC, and Tony Hying, LCSW, and himself to survive!

Nate is a trauma and attachment therapist specializing in "nerd therapy" and gamer interventions utilizing EMDR and parts work. If you're interested in fandoms, tabletop, Legos, or geek culture, Nate is possibly the therapist for you! Nate is also a member of our leadership team and a clinical supervisor. Check out reflectionsmhwi.com for more info!

08/05/2026

08/04/2026

Reflections Horror Movie Survival Part 2. Karen Borkowski, LCSW, chooses Leadership member Nate Willkomm, LPC, to make it to the end of a horror movie! Nate is also one of our resident gamer nerd therapists!

Interested in working with a Reflections therapist? Check out reflectionsmhwi.com for more info!

08/03/2026

We asked Olivia Kaltved, LPC-IT & non-EMDR therapist, if she knew the 8 phases of EMDR. Don't worry; Olivia will have Basic Training in 2027! 😁 Interested in working with a Reflections therapist? Check out reflectionsmhwi.com !