by Ashleigh Louis | Jan 6, 2020 | Ashleigh Louis, PhD, LMFT, PA
This week marks the completion of the 3,000 hours required for licensure as a psychologist, which also marks the end of my role as the Inner Fökus blogger-in-chief! Thank you to those who have been following my journey and for the immense support,... by Ashleigh Louis | Dec 23, 2019 | Kristy Rangel, LMFT, LPCC
People often ask me; how can a dog be your co-therapist? I often smile and think to myself…if you knew the power of a dog and human bond and connection. The impact Jeter has on the students, staff, teachers, parents, and community is unbelievable. Just... by Ashleigh Louis | Dec 16, 2019 | Guest Author Lois Nightingale, PhD
Every human has experienced loss at some point in life, yet some losses impact us more than others. Not only do some losses represent that life is out of control and that bad things can happen to us, but grief is also cumulative. What that means... by Ashleigh Louis | Dec 9, 2019 | Guest Author
Thank You Note A huge thank you to Dr. Ashleigh Louis for giving me the chance to shed light on narratives that are usually unheard or even silenced. A Kind Remark The purpose of this article isn’t to victimize the communities mentioned but to... by Ashleigh Louis | Nov 18, 2019 | Guest Author Lois Nightingale, PhD
1. Be respectful of his/her feelings. Don’t try to minimize the event with logic (“Can’t you see I am happier now?” “Would you really want me back in that situation?” etc.). 2. Don’t defend or “stick up for” the disgraced parent. Don’t try to... by Ashleigh Louis | Nov 11, 2019 | Ashleigh Louis, PhD, LMFT, PA
Last week we presented the second part of my interview with Rachel McMurray, MA, LMFT, who specializes in working with cluster B personality disorders. The following is the remaining portion of my interview with Rachel. I hope you continue to find the... by Ashleigh Louis | Nov 4, 2019 | Ashleigh Louis, PhD, LMFT, PA
Last week we presented the first part of my interview with Rachel McMurray, MA, LMFT, who specializes in working with cluster B personality disorders. The following is the second of three parts of my interview with Rachel. I hope you continue to find the... by Ashleigh Louis | Oct 28, 2019 | Ashleigh Louis, PhD, LMFT, PA
Rachel McMurray, MA, LMFT specializes in working with cluster B personality disorders and other related specialties. As a reminder, cluster B refers to antisocial personality disorder, borderline personality disorder, histrionic personality disorder, and... by Ashleigh Louis | Oct 21, 2019 | Ashleigh Louis, PhD, LMFT, PA
Personality disorders are mental health conditions that are characterized by pervasive and enduring patterns of thinking and behaving in ways that deviate from cultural norms and cause distress, either for the individual and/or for those who interact with them.... by Ashleigh Louis | Oct 14, 2019 | Guest Author Lois Nightingale, PhD
If you learn that someone is being bullied or teased, do something to help. Talk to the teacher, principal, teacher aid, yard duty teacher, etc. If you are concerned that someone may be experiencing bullying, talk it over with a teacher. Work with teachers to... by Ashleigh Louis | Oct 7, 2019 | Corinne Weber, MA, AMFT
As an American expat growing up in Singapore, my life was filled with various opportunities and experiences. Early on in my journey, I experienced joy, hope, and an expectant future, but unbeknownst to me, a silent darkness crept into my story. My twin brother... by Ashleigh Louis | Sep 30, 2019 | Melody Didisse, MA, LMFT
Eating Disorder Resources I remember walking into my interview with Eating Recovery Center feeling completely shocked that I had no idea that this kind of mental health treatment existed. Each treatment facility operates a little differently but most have much... by Ashleigh Louis | Sep 23, 2019 | Melody Didisse, MA, LMFT
Eating Disorders are Masters of Deception One thing I have had to learn to accept is that my patients will always outsmart me! Every person that I have worked with has been intelligent, compassionate and very very creative. All of that creativity and intelligence gets... by Ashleigh Louis | Sep 16, 2019 | Guest Author
Thank You Note A huge thank you to Dr. Ashleigh Louis for allowing me to share my experiences with anxiety. Positive Vibes Only What is Anxiety? In my experience, it is when my heart beats fast, my stomach cramps, and I start breathing heavily.... by Ashleigh Louis | Aug 26, 2019 | Guest Author Lois Nightingale, PhD
During school vacations many families enjoy a more relaxed schedule. This can be fun and enjoyable for traditionally busy parents as well as students. But when the vacation comes to an end it can be challenging getting a family back into the structure of a... by Ashleigh Louis | Aug 19, 2019 | Guest Author Kyle Edquist
It can be assumed that some animals eat hay every day. I am going to go out on a whim and reference the below exchange as our human version of daily H.A.Y. consumption (although I’d argue not resourceful and even more draining): Employee 1: “How are... by Ashleigh Louis | Aug 12, 2019 | Ashleigh Louis, PhD, LMFT, PA
Operant conditioning is a learning process based on reinforcement and punishment. As a reminder, in terms of operant conditioning, reinforcement always means that the behavior is strengthened (more likely to occur again), and punishment always means that the... by Ashleigh Louis | Aug 5, 2019 | Ashleigh Louis, PhD, LMFT, PA
Last week, we explored one process of learning known as classical conditioning. Operant conditioning is a similar concept in that it’s also a type of learning classified as “conditioning,” but there are notable differences between these two types of learning... by Ashleigh Louis | Jul 29, 2019 | Ashleigh Louis, PhD, LMFT, PA
Learning involves acquiring knowledge or skills through experience. It may occur in response to direct study or instruction, but often the process of learning is more subtle and subconscious than we might think or give credit to. Our tendency to behave in... by Ashleigh Louis | Jul 22, 2019 | Guest Author Lois Nightingale, PhD
Often when we think of forgiveness we think of letting someone, “getting away” with something or, “getting off scot-free”. Forgiveness is not about ignoring the fact we were hurt. It is not about setting yourself up to get hurt again. Forgiveness is not reconciliation... by Ashleigh Louis | Jul 15, 2019 | Ashleigh Louis, PhD, LMFT, PA
Confidentiality refers to the client’s right to have information shared within the therapeutic relationship kept within the bounds of the client-therapist relationship. Privilege is a similar legal concept that refers to the client’s right to keep confidential... by Ashleigh Louis | Jul 1, 2019 | Guest Author Kyle Edquist
My name is Kyle Edquist, and “the Walking Hug” is a nickname I am quite fond of, gifted by my friend Rajkumari. Currently, I live in San Francisco and work as a Leadership Recruiter for a connection company (staffing agency) where I find the best ‘people people’ who... by Ashleigh Louis | Jun 24, 2019 | Guest Author Chelsea Louis, MA
People often ask me when I came out or how it was for me when I came out… and I want to say which time?! I have a semi-memorized monologue about a few experiences from 13-16 years old, but these memories aren’t particularly important to me anymore. More important now... by Ashleigh Louis | Jun 17, 2019 | Guest Author Lois Nightingale, PhD
During the school year it can be difficult enough for single parents to keep kids cared for and out of trouble, but when summer arrives and school activities are no longer available, the challenge becomes even more complicated. Many single parents are left with... by Ashleigh Louis | Jun 3, 2019 | Guest Author Remington Rebeil, MA, aMFT
The inconsistencies in both scientific and media related literature that examines the complex world of screen media use has demonstrated that it is extremely difficult to generate associations between how screen media behavior shapes an individual’s life... by Ashleigh Louis | May 20, 2019 | Ashleigh Louis, PhD, LMFT, PA
There are many types of mental health care professionals who are trained to help with various aspects of mental health, including assessment, treatment, medication, case management, advocacy, and consultation. In order to work directly with clients (as compared... by Ashleigh Louis | May 6, 2019 | Guest Author Remington Rebeil, MA, aMFT
If you’ve been following along with our Digital Detox series, you are now well aware of the inconsistencies in both scientific and media related literature that examines the complex world of screen media use. For example, a media article entitled, “How Screen... by Ashleigh Louis | Apr 22, 2019 | Guest Author Josh Berman
“Ugh. I’m so old. I’m such a fart.” This refrain has become a ubiquitous catchphrase of mine over the last year or two. It punctuates my social circles, it initiates a reliable call-and-response with my girlfriend, and frankly, it even pops up... by Ashleigh Louis | Apr 15, 2019 | Guest Author Jenna Zusman
Inner Fokus offers a weekly skill-based, non-therapeutic group known as the Strong(her) Girls Group at our Laguna Beach office for girls 7 – 12 and 13 – 17 years old. Each meeting aims to empower girls with a range of activities, such as skits, yoga,... by Ashleigh Louis | Apr 8, 2019 | Guest Author Remington Rebeil, MA, aMFT
As clinicians, we are extremely passionate about the complex world of screen media activity. In our last post, we investigated the current state of research and media related to screen time and mental health. We found that there was a lack of consistency... by Ashleigh Louis | Apr 1, 2019 | Guest Author Lois Nightingale, PhD
Many adults now acknowledge the benefit of a supportive professional as they face the challenges a divorce inevitably brings. But many parents are unsure at what point their child may be exhibiting signs that indicate a need for professional counseling. Many... by Ashleigh Louis | Mar 25, 2019 | Guest Author Kyle Edquist
Before diving into the ‘smorgasbord’ of words and links below, I am not an expert, these word combos below are opinion based, and at the same time I find them quite interesting to think about, maybe you will too. In 2013, Penn Medicine conducted a study... by Ashleigh Louis | Mar 18, 2019 | Guest Author
It seems that life has a funny way of giving us exactly what we need, right when we need it—even if, in the moment, it feels like the worst thing that could ever happen to us. Back to back, two important things in my life broke. First, my heart. Then, my wrist.... by Ashleigh Louis | Mar 4, 2019 | Guest Author Remington Rebeil, MA, aMFT
As clinicians, we are extremely passionate about the complex world of screen media activity. Previously, we introduced the topic of screen time in order to provide answers to the digital questions we are asked often by parents in sessions. Today, we continue... by Ashleigh Louis | Feb 25, 2019 | Ashleigh Louis, PhD, LMFT, PA
When it comes to anxiety, the goal is not to eliminate it, but rather to help children manage their worries and be willing to face them. While it may come from a helpful and protective place, shielding your children from their worries (and the settings... by Ashleigh Louis | Feb 4, 2019 | Guest Author Remington Rebeil, MA, aMFT
Screen time is an integral part of the lives of children and young adults. Young people use screens as a medium for communication, access, work, pleasure, entertainment, and education. Given the amount of activities that are accomplished on a screen, it seems... by Ashleigh Louis | Jan 28, 2019 | Guest Author Courtney Woods, LCSW, PPSC
As an elementary school social worker, I often encounter children with a range of mental health challenges. While some are struggling with more severe difficulties, many have relatively “low-level” social-emotional concerns that involve strong emotional... by Ashleigh Louis | Jan 21, 2019 | Ashleigh Louis, PhD, LMFT, PA
“Forgiveness does not mean ignoring what has been done or putting a false label on an evil act. It means, rather, than the evil act no longer remains as a barrier to the relationship. Forgiveness is a catalyst creating the atmosphere necessary for a fresh... by Ashleigh Louis | Jan 15, 2019 | Guest Author Remington Rebeil, MA, aMFT
The start of the new year is often synonymous with making resolutions and goals. We begin the new year by creating long lists of behaviors, habits, and thoughts we’d like to change. These goal-oriented lists may include resolutions related to physical or... by Ashleigh Louis | Jan 8, 2019 | Ashleigh Louis, PhD, LMFT, PA
At the beginning of every year, I enjoy looking back on the previous year and reflecting on what went well, what didn’t go so well, what I learned, and what I look forward to learning in the future. As I was considering topics for the blog this week, I thought... by Ashleigh Louis | Dec 17, 2018 | Ashleigh Louis, PhD, LMFT, PA
Last week we discussed the process of developing tolerance to medication. Whereas tolerance involves a state of adaptation to a medication that results in a change to some aspect of the impact of the substance, the term “physical dependence” refers to a state... by Ashleigh Louis | Dec 10, 2018 | Ashleigh Louis, PhD, LMFT, PA
Many people worry about the addiction risk of medications prescribed for mental health conditions, such as those used for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and schizophrenia. There are many misconceptions about the risk of addiction to these various... by Ashleigh Louis | Dec 3, 2018 | Guest Author Chelsea Louis, MA
Mindfulness is the awareness of the present moment that allows a person to choose what to focus their attention on. Mindfulness can act as a stress-coping strategy because it can train the brain to become less reactive to threatening thoughts and to focus on... by Ashleigh Louis | Nov 19, 2018 | Ashleigh Louis, PhD, LMFT, PA
Thanksgiving is a holiday with a complicated historical past but in recent times has come to be about family, friends, and delicious food! Of course, many people do not enjoy Thanksgiving, for reasons ranging from tricky relationships with the people in their... by Ashleigh Louis | Nov 5, 2018 | Guest Author
A bird cannot hold down its perch and fly, likewise, humans cannot grasp anything and be free. As humans, it is our natural instinct to grasp on to anything that is safe and familiar. We hold on to old thoughts, behaviors, outcomes in our personal and professional... by Ashleigh Louis | Oct 29, 2018 | Guest Author TracyAnn Schuur
Essential oils (EO) have a direct chemical influence on brain function, especially the frontal lobe and limbic areas of the brain. The chemical qualities and therapeutic versatility of essential oils are ideal for the support and management of ADHD and ASD.... by Ashleigh Louis | Oct 22, 2018 | Ashleigh Louis, PhD, LMFT, PA
Over the past few weeks, we have explored some of the basic features of ADHD as well as the major strategies for managing symptoms, including medication and psychosocial interventions. A couple of vocal readers have reached out to suggest that we build... by Ashleigh Louis | Oct 15, 2018 | Ashleigh Louis, PhD, LMFT, PA
Last week, we reviewed the major pharmaceutical approaches for the treatment of ADHD. While medication is often necessary in order to fully manage symptoms of ADHD, psychosocial interventions also play an important role in helping individuals achieve successful... by Ashleigh Louis | Oct 8, 2018 | Ashleigh Louis, PhD, LMFT, PA
There are two major categories of medications that are commonly used to treat symptoms of ADHD. Stimulant options, such as forms of methylphenidate and amphetamine, tend to be powerful, quick (effects are noticeable within an hour of use), and are generally... by Ashleigh Louis | Oct 1, 2018 | Ashleigh Louis, PhD, LMFT, PA
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurological condition that affects up to 11% of children and 5% of adults in the United States. Unlike the misleading diagnostic label suggests, ADHD is NOT a deficit in attention, but rather a difficulty in...