A recent article in Psychology Today, “Diagnosed as an Adult,” explores the growing trend of individuals being diagnosed with neurodevelopmental disorders in later adulthood, such as ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder (Frye, 2024). The article provides examples of newly diagnosed adults gaining a sense of relief and validation, clarity, and an improved understanding of their…
In light of recent events that include school shootings in Georgia, threats of violence in Ridgeway, Pennsylvania, and the assassination attempts of our former president in Butler, Pennsylvania, and most recently in West Palm Beach, Florida, Christian Counseling Associates denounces all forms of violence that have recently been perpetrated in our local communities. We call…
Introduction: In the journey of healing and personal growth, many individuals seek counseling to address their challenges. At Christian Counseling Associates (CCA), those seeking help are always initially recommended to individual or sometimes marital counseling (if requested). However, CCA has a comprehensive counseling process that becomes available as our clients make progress. Our TAG Groups…
Addiction among adolescents is a growing concern, and early intervention is crucial in preventing long-term consequences. The teenage years are a critical period for brain development, making adolescents more vulnerable to the harmful effects of addictive behaviors. Understanding the risk factors, recognizing early warning signs, and seeking timely help are essential for parents and caregivers…
In the realm of mental health and counseling, understanding the profound impact of childhood trauma on brain development is crucial. Recent research underscores that childhood trauma can rewire critical brain networks involved in self-focus and problem-solving, emphasizing the urgent need for trauma-informed care. What is Trauma-Informed Care? Trauma-informed care is a framework that recognizes the…
The transition from high school to college represents a significant turning point in a young person’s life. Often, it involves living away from home for the first time, managing a larger academic workload, handling finances, and navigating new social dynamics. While this journey offers opportunities for growth and self-discovery, it also introduces various stressors, as…
God’s Children Are Not for Sale: Child Sex Trafficking is a Global Crisis Child sex trafficking is a global crisis that continues to plague our world, robbing innocent children of their dignity and freedom. Amid this dark reality, “The Sound of Freedom,” a powerful and moving movie, sheds light on the courageous fight against child…
CCA Values Rural Mental Health Mental health has become a pressing concern in today’s stressful world. Unfortunately, residents living in rural areas are not immune to mental health issues. However, for individuals residing in these areas, accessing mental health services can be particularly challenging. That’s where Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) steps in, bringing an essential…
Christian Life in Health and Healing At CCA, we lift up the importance of Christian Life in health and healing. In our work, we seek to promote God’s design for life for every client, and in every community where our organization has a presence. What is central to Christian life? Let us consider four foundational…
Recovering from Times of Uncertainty It’s been more than a year since the pandemic began. Recent surveys are showing that more believe we are on our way out of the darkness. When we analyze informal conversations we may notice a significant drop in the percentage of people who say that they are very concerned about…
Cultivate Discipline in Times of Uncertainty In Proverbs Chapter 9, we see a picture of a “woman of folly” who offers those who are passing by something sinful, sensual and dangerous. There are those who can see that her offer is dangerous, and will lead to harm. Others are deceived and pulled in by the…
Grow in Wisdom During Uncertain Times In times of uncertainty, anxiety stops us. The key is to view times of challenge as growth opportunities. In the book of Exodus, we see how God calls His people to journey through the desert toward the promised land. The desert was harsh and full of challenges. However, it…
Truth in Uncertain Times So many years ago, we witnessed Pilot’s dilemma that is just as prevalent in today’s uncertain culture. As a government official, Pilot was tempted to align with the majority opinion, rather than be a “Truth teller.” For those of us caught up in the pursuit of power, there is a worldly…
Don’t Get Swayed this Christmas by Challenging Emotions A lot of mixed emotions are triggered during the Christmas season. During the current pandemic, celebrations may trigger a lot of anxiety. However, the challenge of the holiday is to overcome any distracting emotions, memories, or dysfunctional habits and stay focused on the main thing. Building strong…
Getting to the Heart of Thanksgiving Will your Thanksgiving look more like this? Or More Like This? Regardless of how you’re planning the holidays, don’t let anxiety destroy the focus! This may be challenging with the looming reports of COVID-19 infections, hospitalizations, and requests to “celebrate responsibly.” It is important to give the option to…
Home for the Holidays 2.0 The Holidays are a critical time for families. It is traditional for Christian Counseling Associates to be available for those who struggle with challenges during Thanksgiving and Christmas. For the next 7 weeks we will be talking about achieving victory as a family. As we move toward this holiday season,…
7 Signs that Fear is Controlling My Life Fear has a positive function. It triggers strong emotion to let us know we are in danger. What is there to be afraid of in our current environment? The suggestion of illness, injury, economic hardship and violence can be an unsettling reminder of the possibility of personal…
The Cycle of Addiction Addiction to alcohol or other substances can affect anyone. Unfortunately, some of us are more vulnerable to the cycle of addition than others. However, anyone has the capacity to fall into addictive behavior. Recognizing the cycle of addiction is an important first step in healing from the deceptive patterns created by…
CCA to Provide Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitative Services CCA is now licensed to provide Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitative Servicesin Greensburg, PA! September is annually designated “National Recovery Month” in the U.S. as an effort to raise awareness regarding the impact that addiction has on individuals, families, and communities across the country. According to Center of…
Stay Healthy and Aware! Get Back In Touch With What Matters 3 Effects of Prolonged Elevated Anxiety Hypervigilance – a state of increased alertness. Anxiety naturally over focuses, or inflates our sense of potential threats in our environment. Frozen in Place – anxiety leads to fear and uncertainty which impairs are ability to act on…
