Video Welcome From Debbie: Treating Depression, Anxiety, Divorce Recovery

October 11, 2011 | Posted by Debbie Devine

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Are You Ready to Make a Counseling Appointment?

March 11, 2010 | Posted by Debbie Devine

My clients enjoy my luxurious, discreet counseling atmosphere in a beautiful cottage surrounded by trees and birds.  Unlike the average therapist who answers to insurance companies regarding your care, I have a specialized, fee-only practice for the discriminating adult who is looking for the highest standards in confidentiality (no insurance accepted) and expertise. I am an experienced, senior level therapist who offers a unique therapy experience, including articles, email support, and direct, practical suggestions.

I am very experienced in the divorce process, having taught classes for District Judges in counties all over Texas on this subject. If you are looking for divorce help, divorce counseling, and divorce support, my services are available with one phone call to 214-410-0435  or email to ddevine@DevineRelaxation.com .

If you need compassionate guidance to deal with your relationships with a mate, parents, or others–perhaps you are working on your marriage alone because your mate won’t come to counseling– or if you are struggling with anxiety, pain, sleep issues, or depression, please don’t wait. Call me today at 214-410-0435 or email me with your questions at ddevine@DevineRelaxation.com . Remember: your world changes when YOU change.

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Holiday Help: Counseling for Depression or Anxiety

December 8, 2011 | Posted by Debbie Devine

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Dealing with Holidays, Family, Depression and Anxiety

October 11, 2011 | Posted by Debbie Devine

1. Remind yourself that people are under more pressure and are going to be harder to get along with on special days.

2. If you choose to speak up-and “rocking the boat” is NOT a bad thing—use an “I message.” Example: Mom, I feel hurt when you criticize my cooking.

3. Try to have those “I message” conversations privately and directly with the person who has offended you. Avoid the words “always” and “never.” After all, no one is ALWAYS guilty of something

4. Avoid being drawn into family triangles. A triangle is where people discuss another family member behind their back. It may feel good to be included, but it almost always comes back to haunt you later when you indulge in gossip. If someone attempts to draw you in, excuse yourself and invent an urgent gravy emergency.

5. If the dinner is at your house, you have the right to set all rules and boundaries, such as no alcohol,  no smoking inside, etc. Be polite but firm. The rules are always the choice of the host/hostess: the guest’s choice is whether or not to attend.

6. Get outside for a walk, or at least a deep breath of fresh air. Remind yourself that it’s only one day. Promise yourself a relaxing treat later (such as a hot bath, TV show, good book). This will help manage your depression or anxiety.

7. Try to look past the person’s irritating manner to the wounds that cause the actions. This does not mean you don’t speak up, it simply means you speak up calmly.

8. Thank your hostess profusely. You have no idea how much time and effort it takes unless you’ve done it yourself!

9. Spend some time being thankful and enjoying the people you love.

10. Never skip our appointments during the holiday season, no matter how busy you are. Like sleep and exercise, your sessions are essential to keeping you in balance and moving forward.

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Counseling for Depression, Anxiety, Divorce: What My Patients Have Taught Me

September 13, 2011 | Posted by Debbie Devine

Dear Friends and Clients;

I have been in practice 15 years this May. I am amazed and grateful every day that I get to do the work I love.  These 15 years of counseling in Rockwall, Texas have been very fulfilling.

Like most therapists, I started out seeing all ages in individual and couples counseling. I took insurance, started Rockwall’s first Divorce Recovery classes for Judge Sue Pirtle and Judge Brett Hall. I began a Mentoring program that is still used in RISD schools today. I started the Rockwall Therapist’s Lunch Group which still meets every month. My studies in Evidence Based Behavioral Medicine led to the production of my CD, Devine Relaxation (www.DevineRelaxation.com/self-help-tools ) which has given dozens of people relief from pain, sleeplessness, anxiety, depression, and panic attacks.

  As my practice grew, I have been able to break free from the insurance companies’ dictates for your care and practice out-of-network only. I  see only adults in individual counseling. I have found my “dream office” in the woods. I keep a select group of patients and give care that is unlike any offered elsewhere. I am continually studying, going to seminars, and learning ways to improve your care even more.

 My practice is NOT for everyone. My clients pay for the best and they get it.

Here is what you, the patients, have taught me:

When a person is ready to change, they change. Not before.

Sometimes a listening ear is enough and exactly what is needed.

It takes time to “undo” the years of damage done in life (the so called “brief” therapies lead to “brief” changes!)

The human heart, mind and spirit is always striving toward health.

Plenty of people in your life “give advice.” I give skilled, licensed, highly professional counseling and a patient knows the difference.

THANK YOU, to my patients. THANK YOU for allowing me the privilege to participate in your care. THANK YOU for your trust.

And thank you for teaching me these things.

Best,

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