The Diagnosis Dilemma
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 […]
Violence and Vulnerability
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 […]
The Power of TAG Groups: A Journey Beyond Individual Therapy
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 […]
Celebrity Overdose: The Hidden Dangers and Medical Accountability in Addiction Treatment
In October of 2023, we wrote about the impact of addiction as we witnessed the tragic death of Matthew Perry, beloved for his role as Chandler Bing in Friends. Recently, his story has sparked intense scrutiny and concern within the mental health and addiction treatment community as further details of his untimely death come to […]
Why Early Intervention for Adolescent Addictive Behaviors is Crucial: Key Risks and Warning Signs
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 […]
Mindfulness vs. Watchfulness
Due to the increasing trend of treating the whole person, or what may be referred to as holistic health care, spiritual practices are often considered in wellness approaches across a broad range of disciplines. Mindfulness has become a popular technique for fostering emotional balance and well-being. These techniques have become part of a “scientific approach.” […]
College Students’ Mental Health: A Rising Concern
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 […]
Promoting Life-Affirming Choices and Support
In a recent study conducted by the Family Research Council’s Center for Biblical Worldview and pollster George Barna, a surprising statistic came to light: one in six regular churchgoers in America admitted to having, paying for, or encouraging an abortion. This revelation may shock many, but it underscores the pressing need for guidance and support […]
CCA Values Rural Mental Health
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 […]
Recovering from Times of Uncertainty
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
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
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
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 […]
Courage in Uncertain Times
Courage in Uncertain Times It is easy to see the world as overwhelming, dangerous, and unforgiving. In uncertain times, problems seem so large, that they cannot be solved. At times like these, we are gripped with fear, becoming spiritually stuck, even frozen. It seems like there is nothing left to be done. Are you experiencing […]
Don’t Get Swayed this Christmas by Challenging Emotions
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 […]
Home for the Holidays 2.0
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, […]
Honoring Our Veterans
Honoring Our Veterans CCA honors all of those who have served the country in war or peace. May God bless our Veterans. Shaking with Patriotism During the early days of World War II, the American forces undertook the invasion of Sicily. The 1st Ranger Battalion, an Army special forces unit known as Darby’s Rangers, was […]
What are you afraid of?
What are you afraid of? There is a high price to pay for being overtaken by fear. Anxiety is an immobilizer. It stops us from moving forward and living life. It is a thief that robs us of our dreams. This is the most damaging aspect of fear. The current environment is challenging. We are […]
7 Signs that Fear is Controlling My Life
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
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 […]