By Nancy Stoops

Deciding to start therapy can be a very hard decision. It’s hard to admit to ourselves that we can’t do it on our own and that we need some help. The truth is even though we take care of ourselves sometimes we need the help of a good doctor or an antibiotic and sometimes surgery. I have always referred to myself as an emotional surgeon. What I mean by this, is that I open you up and help you begin to deal with all of those dysfunctional feelings that are making you feel so bad and so stuck. Starting therapy takes an incredible amount of courage and is a sign of strength not weakness. Please never feel embarrassed that you feel have run out of options and that now you need some help to get through some things.

Over the years I have worked with people 2-91 years of age dealing parenting, drugs, anxiety, depression, autistic spectrum disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, appropriate sexual boundaries and so many other issues. Between my groups and my private practice I have literally helped thousands of people learn how to live a happy and balanced life. I want my clients to be healthy mentally as well as physically and spiritually healthy. I think all three of these go hand in hand to maintain permanent well-being.

A good place to start is by visiting one of my groups and seeing if you like my style before you start spending your hard earned money. Keep in mind my co-therapist is a registered therapy dog named Jaida. If you are a dog lover you will have a great team on your side while you are doing some very necessary healing or just getting some tips on how to live more fully!!!!

This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T. Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She has a private practice in Diamond Bar and is currently accepting new clients; she is also a motivational speaker who can inspire your employees or group members. Nancy runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups on how to manage anger. For more information about any of these services feel free to contact her at (909)229-072. You may e-mail Nancy at nancyjstoops@verizon.net. You may ask Purchase Nancy’s books Live Heal and Grow and Midnight the Therapy Dog at Amazon.com.