How Do You Know if Your Therapist is a Good Fit for You?
Halie Carey Halie Carey

How Do You Know if Your Therapist is a Good Fit for You?

Finding the right therapist is key to your healing journey, and there are a few signs to look for to determine if they’re a good fit for you. You should feel comfortable opening up, understood, and respected throughout the process. A good therapist will listen actively, offer a clear approach, and challenge you in ways that help you grow—while also respecting your pace. Progress doesn’t have to be huge, but you should feel like you’re moving forward, even if it’s just in small ways. Trust and feeling empowered are essential, and if something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to reassess or have an open conversation about your concerns.

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Therapy 101: What to Expect in Your First Session
Halie Carey Halie Carey

Therapy 101: What to Expect in Your First Session

Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, but your first session is really just about getting to know you, your needs, and what you’re hoping to get out of the process. There’s no pressure to share everything right away—we’ll go at a pace that feels comfortable. We’ll cover some basics, talk about what’s been feeling hard for you, and start setting a foundation for your therapy journey. Whether you leave feeling lighter, emotional, or unsure, it’s all part of the process. The most important thing? You’ve taken the first step, and that’s a big deal.

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Mental Health is Like Working Out (But Without the Gym Membership)
Halie Carey Halie Carey

Mental Health is Like Working Out (But Without the Gym Membership)

Taking care of your mental health is a lot like working out—it takes time, consistency, and knowing when to push yourself versus when to rest. Just like you wouldn’t start lifting 100lbs on day one, you don’t have to tackle everything at once in your healing journey. Progress looks different every day—some days, you feel strong and capable, while other days, even small steps take effort. And that’s okay. Growth isn’t about perfection; it’s about honoring where you’re at and moving forward at your own pace. Whether you’re building new coping skills, processing emotions, or simply learning to rest without guilt, every step counts.

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The Emotional Toll of ‘But You Don’t Look Sick’
Halie Carey Halie Carey

The Emotional Toll of ‘But You Don’t Look Sick’

Living with an invisible illness or disability comes with challenges that others don’t always see—but that doesn’t make them any less real. In this post, we dive into the emotional toll of hearing, “But you don’t look sick,” and how it can lead to self-doubt, frustration, and exhaustion. We also explore ways to validate your experience, set boundaries, and find support so you don’t have to carry it all alone.

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Overcoming Self-Doubt to Be More Authentic in Life
Halie Carey Halie Carey

Overcoming Self-Doubt to Be More Authentic in Life

Overcoming self-doubt is a journey that requires patience, self-reflection, and a willingness to embrace vulnerability. By taking small, consistent steps—such as recognizing the stories we tell ourselves, challenging limiting beliefs, and practicing self-compassion—we can begin to show up more authentically in our lives. Remember, authenticity is not about perfection; it's about embracing your true self, flaws and all, and letting go of the fear of not measuring up. With time and practice, you can build the confidence to trust yourself more deeply and show up in the world as the person you’re meant to be.

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How to Sit with Your Emotions (And Why It’s Important)
Halie Carey Halie Carey

How to Sit with Your Emotions (And Why It’s Important)

Sitting with your emotions can feel uncomfortable, but it's one of the most important things you can do for yourself. When you take the time to really feel what you're experiencing, instead of pushing it away or distracting yourself, you create space for understanding and healing. It helps you connect more deeply with yourself and others, and builds the resilience to navigate life’s ups and downs with more ease. By embracing your emotions with kindness and patience, you allow yourself to process and grow, instead of staying stuck in the same patterns.

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Reframing Self-Care: It’s Not Just About Bubble Baths
Halie Carey Halie Carey

Reframing Self-Care: It’s Not Just About Bubble Baths

Self-care is often seen through the lens of luxurious bubble baths and relaxing spa days, but true self-care is much deeper and more personal. It’s about setting boundaries, listening to your body, and releasing the pressure of perfection. For those navigating chronic illness or disability, self-care is about honoring your unique needs, whether that’s resting, being kind to yourself, or allowing space to recharge without guilt. Real self-care isn’t a one-size-fits-all routine—it’s about showing up for yourself in ways that feel supportive and nourishing. When you practice self-compassion, prioritize rest, and listen to your body, you’ll feel more grounded, connected, and resilient—no matter the challenges life throws your way.

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How Vulnerability and Imperfection Are Where True Healing Begins
Halie Carey Halie Carey

How Vulnerability and Imperfection Are Where True Healing Begins

In this post, we explore how vulnerability and imperfection are not things to hide from, but powerful keys to healing. Instead of trying to be perfect or have it all together, true growth happens when we allow ourselves to be real, messy, and imperfect. I dive into how embracing these aspects of ourselves can actually lead to deeper connection, healing, and self-acceptance

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Reconnecting with Your Partner After Life Disruptions: How to Rekindle Intimacy and Communication
Halie Carey Halie Carey

Reconnecting with Your Partner After Life Disruptions: How to Rekindle Intimacy and Communication

When life throws unexpected challenges your way, whether it’s health struggles, personal shifts, or any other disruption, it can be hard to stay connected with your partner. This blog explores how to reconnect, nurture intimacy, and communicate with compassion during tough times. It emphasizes the importance of emotional intimacy, balancing responsibilities, and showing small acts of care to restore your bond. Life’s curveballs don’t have to tear you apart—by leaning into each other, being honest, and taking small steps to reconnect, you can grow stronger as a couple.

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Navigating Anxiety While Living with Chronic Illness: Finding Calm in the Storm
Halie Carey Halie Carey

Navigating Anxiety While Living with Chronic Illness: Finding Calm in the Storm

Living with chronic illness can bring its own unique set of challenges, and when anxiety is added to the mix, it can feel overwhelming. In this post, I explore the connection between chronic illness and anxiety, offering compassionate and practical strategies to help you navigate both. From acknowledging anxiety without judgment to focusing on what you can control, these tips are designed to help you find calm and reclaim your sense of peace. Remember, you are not defined by your illness or your anxiety—you are resilient and deserving of rest, self-compassion, and support.

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Loving Your Whole Self: Nurturing the Parts of You That Feel Challenging
Halie Carey Halie Carey

Loving Your Whole Self: Nurturing the Parts of You That Feel Challenging

In this post, you could explore how many of us have parts of ourselves that we push away, ignore, or criticize because they feel “difficult” or “unlovable.” These might be parts that show up when we feel overwhelmed, anxious, angry, or ashamed. But the truth is, these parts are often there for a reason—they’re trying to protect us, even if their methods aren’t always helpful. The key to healing is learning how to show compassion to these parts, rather than rejecting or suppressing them. You can offer practical tools for doing so, like recognizing and naming these parts, asking what they need, and responding with empathy. This post could remind readers that all parts of them, no matter how uncomfortable, deserve compassion and care.

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The Strength in Vulnerability: Why Opening Up Leads to Deeper Connection
Halie Carey Halie Carey

The Strength in Vulnerability: Why Opening Up Leads to Deeper Connection

This blog would explore the power of vulnerability, particularly for those who feel pressured to always appear strong or have their life "together." You could discuss how vulnerability allows us to connect more deeply with ourselves and others, breaking down the walls that keep us isolated. You could also offer tips for how to practice vulnerability in a healthy, safe way—starting with small steps and self-compassion. The post would be empowering, reminding readers that showing their true selves is a form of strength, not weakness.

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The Power of Being Yourself: Embracing Your Identity When the World Wants You to Conform
Halie Carey Halie Carey

The Power of Being Yourself: Embracing Your Identity When the World Wants You to Conform

In a world that often pressures us to conform, embracing who we truly are can feel like an act of rebellion. But the power of being yourself goes beyond defiance—it’s about reclaiming your authenticity and finding strength in your uniqueness. In this post, we explore why showing up as your true self is one of the most powerful things you can do, and how embracing your individuality can lead to deeper connections and greater inner peace. You don’t need to fit into anyone’s mold—your real self is more than enough.

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Protecting Yourself When the World Feels Unsafe
Halie Carey Halie Carey

Protecting Yourself When the World Feels Unsafe

In times of political unrest, marginalized individuals often face heightened vulnerability. In this post, I share practical strategies for protecting your mental, emotional, and physical well-being during these challenging times. From setting boundaries to prioritizing self-care and finding community, you don’t have to face uncertainty alone. It's not only about survival—it's about holding onto your power, your hope, and your peace in the midst of it all.

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Healing in the Face of Chronic Illness and Disability: Finding Strength in Vulnerability
Halie Carey Halie Carey

Healing in the Face of Chronic Illness and Disability: Finding Strength in Vulnerability

Living with chronic illness often means navigating a path that feels slower or more uncertain than what others experience, and that can leave you feeling like you're falling behind. In this post, I remind you that there’s no “right” timeline for healing, and comparing yourself to others only steals your peace. Your journey is unique, and every step—no matter how small—is worth celebrating. You are not behind. You’re exactly where you need to be. Healing happens at your own pace, and that pace is powerful.

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How to Honor Your Unique Journey When You Feel Like Everyone Else Has It All Together
Halie Carey Halie Carey

How to Honor Your Unique Journey When You Feel Like Everyone Else Has It All Together

In a world that often pressures us to fit into boxes, embracing who you truly are can feel like an act of courage. In this post, I explore how the power of being yourself goes beyond just standing out—it’s about honoring your authenticity and trusting that your uniqueness is your strength. When you embrace your true self, you not only find deeper peace within, but you also invite the connections and opportunities that align with who you really are. You are enough, just as you are.

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