9/11/2011 Remembered

September 911 remembered

Sitting in my office, the tv was on and in the background I hear.." The World Trade Center was hit". I looked up staring at the sights and sounds that quickly overwhelmed me. Watching at first in complete disbelief, then slowly and completely shocked in horror at what was unfolding. I recall yelling, what's happening to the people, as a plume of smoke was overtaking the city..spiraling out of control, covering the streets in a dark horrific moment.  

These thoughts came back to me today. The grief the victims, families, friends, and heroes must have felt and still feel today is beyond belief. How can an ideology so strong be so hurtful as to cause mass destruction? How can it still be happening today around the world? I have sincere empathy and compassion for others suffering , hurting, and grieving. We must be tolerant of others who are different, yet not tolerate people that hate through heinous crimes and acts of violence against others. 

I am taking a moment to reflect on the beauty that surrounds me, my family and friends that I love and miss. Appreciating what life has given me, with the awareness of the emotional and physical challenges  others face world wide. 

Remembering 911

~Nancy Shertok, MSW, LCSW

Niche

1. niche

     [nich]  

   noun
   

   1.
   

   a place or position suitable or appropriate for a person or thing:to find one's niche in the business world.

   2.
   

   a distinct segment of a market.

   3.
   

   Ecology . the position or function of an organism in a community of plants and animals.

   
   

   I've been thinking about this lately. Where is my niche? Where do I belong? We all need a purpose in life, need to feel secure, and "fit in" where we live. This happens not only when others around us appreciate our efforts and find value in what we do, but in how complete and satisfied we feel where we are at. Our niche may be at home, in causes we believe in, in our spirituality, within our families, among friends, work etc. Are you involved in your community? Do people know you by name? Do you feel like you fit in? These are all good questions to ask yourselves. So find your niche, feel complete, and be proud of who you are!

   
   

Life Transitions

I thought I'd write about life transitions and how bittersweet they can be. I have gone through quite a bit of changes throughout my life, so I know what a toll they can take on our bodies and souls. We all experience transitions in life from graduating college, moving, new jobs, giving birth, losing loved ones etc. Some give us lots of pleasure and others hurt deeply. How do we move forward? For most, it takes time to successfully adjust to new changes, some more quickly than others. But with time, it requires the ability to cope and meet these challenges in a healthy way. By this I mean, finding support, being genuine about what you are feeling to yourself and others, and reaching out for help when you need it. I recall after the birth of my daughter, that I was struggling emotionally with the changes. But I didn't know how to share the struggle without appearing "weak". I would quietly question what was happening, why I couldn't manage this new little bundle of joy? I thought I had all the answers and that I could do it alone. I was experiencing postpartum depression, but was too proud or scared to admit it. Therefore, I didn't get the help that I so needed.

Life happens and we don't always have the resources or wherewith-all to get through life's challenges on our own. Therapy’s is an excellent option. Caring, experienced professionals are out there to help. No strings attached, without the fear of being judged. I wish I had reached out to my physician or therapist, despite being a psychotherapist myself. We all need someone to talk to, to help us through difficult life transitions.

Which therapist should I choose?

     Many people ask, "What is the difference between a psychotherapist, psychologist, and a psychiatrist?" First the similarities, we are all mental health professionals providing psychotherapy to clients experiencing distress in their lives. The differences mainly lie in our educational degrees. For the most part, psychotherapists have their Masters Degrees usually in social work (MSW) counseling, marriage and family therapy etc. Psychologists usually have their PHDs, and psychiatrists are MDs (physicians). Psychologists can administer psychological testing, such as IQ, personality and ADD testing etc. Psychiatrists can prescribe medications, which is usually their primary focus.
     When finding a therapist, you must feel comfortable. That sounds trivial, but therapy only works when you are open to help from someone you trust and respect. Therapy is about you first and foremost. A therapist should never reveal too much information about themselves. Your sessions are dynamic and insightful. If you aren't feeling the benefits, talk to your therapist about it or ask for another recommendation from your physician, friend or family member.