The Counseling Journal

Cultivating awareness, encouraging healthy behaviors, and the use of tools and skills for daily living.

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Journal Prompts & Self-care

Strengthening Your Relationship Through Fondness and Admiration

Maintaining a strong and loving relationship requires intentional effort and care. One of the key pillars of a healthy partnership is cultivating fondness and admiration. These concepts, introduced by Dr. John Gottman, focus on the importance of cherishing and respecting your partner. By regularly expressing appreciation and highlighting the positive aspects of your relationship, you can create a deeper sense of connection and trust. Explore how couples therapy in Plano can help you and your partner develop these skills to strengthen your bond and build a lasting, fulfilling relationship.

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The Secret to a Stronger Relationship in 2026? Start the Year by Building Your Love Maps

Start the year with a fresh perspective on your relationship by discovering Dr. John Gottman's Love Maps. These are a powerful tool to deepen your bond and ensure you and your partner feel truly seen and understood. By updating your Love Maps, you can nurture a stronger connection and create a foundation for lasting joy and intimacy throughout the year. Learn simple, practical steps to make this resolution a reality!

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Individuals Monica Individuals Monica

7 Ways to Fall in Love With Your Own Company Before the Year Ends

If you’re looking for a meaningful way to wrap up your year, solo dates could be just what you need. These intentional moments of self-care and reflection can help you recharge and enter the new year with clarity and positivity. Whether it’s a peaceful nature walk, a cozy day spent journaling, or indulging in a favorite hobby, solo activities offer an opportunity to focus on yourself and cherish your own company. Discover seven unique and enriching ideas to make the most of the season and end the year on a high note.

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Holidays Monica Holidays Monica

The Heart of Christmas

Merry Christmas! The holiday season is a time for celebration, but it's important to remember the true reason for Christmas - the birth of Jesus Christ. Take a moment to reflect on His love and grace during this special time of year.

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Individuals Monica Individuals Monica

Plan Your Year: A Guide to Personal Goal Setting

Planning your year with intentionality can transform your goals into achievable milestones. By reflecting on past experiences, identifying your true aspirations, and creating a strategic personal plan, you can foster growth and fulfillment. This guide provides actionable steps to design your most purposeful year yet.

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Couples Who Plan Together, Stay Together: Your Guide to a Better Year

Planning your year together as a couple can be a transformative way to strengthen your bond and align your priorities. Just like businesses set goals to drive success, couples can benefit from reflecting on their past achievements, defining shared ambitions, and creating a roadmap for growth. This guide will help you approach your relationship with intention, focusing on communication, connection, and a shared vision for the future.

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The Game-Changing Way to Rest That Actually Prevents Burnout

Ditch the passive scrolling and learn about purposeful recovery, the key to fighting mental fatigue and boosting creativity. This guide explains the science behind active recovery and offers practical ways to incorporate restorative activities like hobbies, gentle movement, and mindfulness into your life to prevent burnout and feel genuinely refreshed.

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Individuals Monica Individuals Monica

Audit Your Energy and Start the New Year Recharged

As the year comes to a close, it's time to reflect on what truly nourished your spirit and what weighed you down. An energy audit helps you evaluate the people, habits, and commitments that impacted you most, empowering you to prioritize what matters and step into the new year with clarity and purpose.

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Individuals Monica Individuals Monica

The Power of Gratitude on Your Mental Health

Practicing gratitude daily can significantly improve your mental health by reducing anxiety and depression. Gratitude has been shown to rewire the brain, fostering positive thinking patterns and emotional well-being. Simple habits like keeping a gratitude journal, mindful reflection, or expressing appreciation to others can make a big difference in your overall happiness. By incorporating these easy practices into your routine, you can build resilience, find joy in everyday moments, and experience the lasting mental health benefits of gratitude.

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Individuals Monica Individuals Monica

Survive the Holidays When You’re Grieving

The holidays can be especially painful after losing someone important. This gentle guide offers practical ways to honor your emotions, set boundaries, create new traditions, and nurture yourself through soothing rituals—helping you navigate this season with compassion and hope.

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Holiday Stress? Tips for Couples to Stay Connected

The holiday season, while magical, often brings its fair share of stress for couples. Between juggling family commitments, shopping lists, and busy schedules, it’s easy for relationships to take a backseat. This blog offers practical tips and creative holiday date ideas to help couples stay connected, reduce stress, and create meaningful moments together during the festive chaos.

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