Health is not one-dimensional. It's made up of eight dimensions for wellness. Each is interconnected to the other and neglecting one or more dimensions often leads to a negative effect on whole health. For optimal health, it's important to work on each dimension to improve upon or maintain the desired level of health.
A primary aspect of whole health, behavioral health is described as a state of mental and emotional being that includes our behavioral choices and actions that affect wellness. This includes mental health concerns, alcohol and drug abuse/misuse, and stress-linked physical symptoms.
Behavioral health therapy is part of a proactive self-care lifestyle that can help you integrate each of the dimensions of wellness to promote good health. Good health is not a luxury, but a necessity for good quality of life. A broad range of issues can be addressed in therapy. The outdated perceptions around therapy are becoming a thing of the past (you know exactly what I mean). Welcome to modern therapy.
Although mental health stigma has progressively been decreasing over time, it's still a social and cultural problem that keeps too many people from seeking help, especially preventive help. Because of stigma, people have waited too long, let their lives fall apart, or have found themselves in crisis when it could've easily been prevented had stigma not been a barrier. Stigma wins and grows stronger when we let it keep us from taking care of our behavioral health.
From SAMHSA. (2016). Creating a Healthier Life: A Step-by-Step Guide to Wellness.
Recognizing the need for physical activity; a healthy, balanced diet; good nutrition; and enough sleep to feel good.
Coping effectively with life's stressors and challenges, and creating satisfying relationships.
Expanding our sense of purpose and meaning in life.
Developing a sense of connection, belonging, and a well-developed support system.
Recognizing creative abilities and finding ways to expand knowledge and skills.
Satisfaction with current and future financial situations.
Good health by occupying pleasant, stimulating environments that support well-being.
Personal satisfaction and enrichment derived from one's work.
Hello, I'm Dr. Ashley! I'm a modern therapist that promotes proactive and preventive behavioral health care to improve clients' quality of life and ability to thrive. I've always been passionate about empowering others and creating positive and impactful change. I'm a well-being advocate working to combat mental health stigma and promote proactive self-care and community care practices. I have over 10 years of experience in behavioral health, having formerly worked in psychiatric and medical inpatient settings, integrated behavioral health in primary care, and in employee assistance. I earned all of my degrees, BA, MSW, and DSW from the University of Southern California, and am a California Licensed Clinical Social Worker (License #LCSW70676). I'm also a Certified Financial Social Worker and Certified Evidence-Based Coach. I have worked with clients on a broad range of issues including, but not limited to anxiety; depression; stress; relapse prevention; coping with grief and loss; motivation, self-esteem, and confidence; coping with life changes; and financial wellness.