August 14, 2023

Q and A with Nemetria Tate, PsyD

August 14, 2023/ Forward Counseling/ Princess Dumpit

Nemetria Tate is a dedicated psychologist who understands that seeking assistance is a courageous step toward growth. Holding a doctorate in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, she specializes in helping adults navigate challenges such as low self-esteem, boundary issues, communication hurdles, adapting to life changes, trauma, anxiety, and depression. Nemetria's therapeutic approach is centered around Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and other proven methods, all while maintaining a culturally sensitive and strengths-based perspective to ensure a customized and enriching therapeutic journey. Beyond her professional commitment, she finds joy in audiobooks, movies, and cherished moments spent playing games with loved ones.

August 07, 2023

Forest Sitting: Embracing Tranquility and Connection with Nature

August 07, 2023/ Forward Counseling/ Jessica Shea

In the midst of our busy and technology-driven lives, finding moments of peace and solace can be a challenge. However, there is a mindful practice that allows us to slow down, immerse ourselves in nature, and find serenity amidst the trees - forest sitting. More than just a mere pastime, forest sitting is a meditative and contemplative experience that encourages us to connect with the natural world on a profound level. In this blog, we will explore the art of forest sitting, its benefits, and how it can help us cultivate a deeper bond with nature.

1. The Essence of Forest Sitting

Forest sitting, also known as tree sitting or woodland meditation, involves spending time in a forest or wooded area, ideally away from human disturbances. Unlike traditional meditation, forest sitting doesn't require a specific posture or focused breath control. Instead, it invites us to embrace stillness, silence, and the beauty of nature surrounding us.

2. Mindfulness in Nature

At the heart of forest sitting lies mindfulness - the practice of being fully present in the moment without judgment. As we sit among the trees, we become aware of the sights, sounds, and sensations that nature offers. The rustling of leaves, the chirping of birds, and the fragrance of the earth become our anchors to the present.

3. Nurturing Mental Well-being

The practice of forest sitting has profound benefits for our mental health. Studies have shown that spending time in nature reduces stress, anxiety, and depression. Forest sitting allows us to escape the noise of daily life, providing a sanctuary for our minds to unwind and recharge. It fosters a sense of tranquility and helps us gain perspective on life's challenges.

4. Connection with Nature

In a world increasingly disconnected from the natural world, forest sitting offers an opportunity to rekindle our relationship with nature. As we sit amidst the trees, we begin to recognize our interconnectedness with the environment and the intricate web of life that sustains us. This newfound appreciation can inspire us to become better stewards of the earth.

5. Heightening Senses

In the forest, our senses come alive. The symphony of natural sounds, the vibrant colors of foliage, and the textures of the forest floor awaken our senses in a way that urban environments seldom do. Forest sitting heightens our awareness and allows us to explore the world around us through a different lens.

6. A Gateway to Self-Reflection

In the tranquil embrace of the forest, our minds naturally turn inward. Forest sitting creates a space for self-reflection and introspection. It enables us to explore our thoughts and emotions without judgment, fostering a deeper understanding of ourselves and our place in the natural world.

7. Practicing Gratitude

As we sit surrounded by the majesty of nature, feelings of gratitude naturally arise. Gratitude for the trees that provide oxygen, the wildlife that calls the forest home, and the beauty that nurtures our spirits. Forest sitting reminds us to be grateful for the gifts that nature bestows upon us daily.

Forest sitting is a gentle invitation to disconnect from the rush of modern life and reconnect with the timeless wisdom of nature. Through this practice, we learn to be present, mindful, and grateful for the natural wonders that surround us. Forest sitting nurtures our mental well-being, strengthens our bond with the environment, and empowers us to become mindful stewards of our planet. So, the next time you find yourself yearning for serenity and connection, venture into the embrace of the forest, sit quietly, and let nature's wisdom reveal its wonders to you.

Connect with nature through Memphis Mushroom Festival

Experience the powerful healing of nature through the annual Memphis Mushroom Festival, a multi-day experiential event celebrating nature, sustainability, healthy foods, and plant medicines. Held at the stunning Meeman-Shelby Forest Park, the festival offers a chance to immerse in self-sufficiency skills and self-care practices, all while enjoying the serene 13,000-acre forest setting.

Learn more

Ready for positive change?

Forward Counseling provides effective tools and support to promote healing. We assist clients in nurturing present-moment mindfulness, fostering self-compassion, and employing mindfulness practices to enhance concentration and focus, ultimately contributing to their personal development and overall well-being.

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June 01, 2023

Pride and Mental Well-being: Celebrating LGBTQIA+ Identity and Cultivating Inner Strength

June 01, 2023/ Princess Dumpit

As Pride Month unfolds, it's imperative to recognize the intricate link between LGBTQIA+ identity and mental well-being. The community contends with pervasive stigma and discrimination, significantly impacting mental health. Embracing pride becomes a transformative act, fostering inner strength and acceptance. LGBTQIA+ youth, facing unique challenges, often grapple with higher rates of substance abuse and mental health issues. Inclusive environments and support systems play pivotal roles in mitigating these challenges. Forward Counseling, attuned to these concerns, offers specialized mental health services. Pride Month is a call to actively engage in events, connect with supportive communities, access mental health resources, and prioritize self-care. By doing so, individuals can navigate their mental health journey with resilience, embracing their authentic selves and fostering lasting well-being.

April 06, 2022

The 5 Best Books for Boundaries in Relationships

April 06, 2022/ Forward Counseling/ Alex Williams

Looking to have healthier relationships that last and don’t leave you feeling used and misunderstood? Experts say the key to maintaining the healthiest relationships (including within your job, your friendships, your romantic relationships, and even your family) is being a ruthless, unapologetic boundary setter. Simply put, setting boundaries promotes respectful relationships. According to coach Angelik Sims, “Boundary setting is the most important way to teach people how you expect to be treated.” I get it- this is easier said than done. Many of us (ahem- me) have people-pleasing tendencies that make getting into the habit of setting and sticking to clear boundaries feel uncomfortable and awkward.

February 22, 2022

The 5 Best Books Trauma Therapists Recommend

February 22, 2022/ Forward Counseling/ Alex Williams

A great way to heal from traumatic experiences outside of the therapy room is to educate yourself and learn from leading researchers and clinicians who are dedicated to providing the best information about the psychological effects of trauma and the methods that have helped others heal. You are not alone! Check out these great reads to get started in your journey towards beating PTSD and complex trauma.

January 17, 2022

Healing from a Dysfunctional Childhood

January 17, 2022/ Forward Counseling/ Alex Williams

Trauma can also be generational in nature, meaning that it is passed down from one family member to the next as part of a given family’s cultural schema. Simply being aware of maladaptive interpersonal patterns of communication within your family won’t undo generations of dysfunction. Knowledge is power, but healing requires hard work. Here are some tips for coping with the newly discovered dysfunction.

January 12, 2022

Starting Therapy: Should I use Insurance or pay out of Pocket?

January 12, 2022/ Forward Counseling/ Alex Williams

For people who worry about confidentiality, have high deductibles, or don’t have a mental health diagnosis, choosing to pay out of pocket with a therapist has benefits. Understanding which is best is a frustrating barrier. Insurance doesn’t need to be the factor holding you back from getting the absolute best treatment for your situation. There are many highly skilled therapists and life coaches at Forward Counseling who are excited to partner with you in your journey to reaching your highest self possible.

December 06, 2021

LENS Neurofeedback: The Key to Your Brain Health

December 06, 2021/ Forward Counseling/ Alex Williams

Neurofeedback can help reduce symptoms brought on by the stressors of daily life and bring you back to feeling like a kid. Neurofeedback allows you to take control over your brain patterns. In many situations, it is possible to cure your brain health without using prescription medication. What we aim to do is address the brain as a whole, the patterns it creates and the experiences the client is having in order to propel the client to feel fully optimized.

November 11, 2021

Grief is All-Inclusive: Join our Grief Group this Holiday Season

November 11, 2021/ Forward Counseling/ Alex Williams

An interesting thing about grief- because it’s taboo to talk about- is that we tend to feel like the only one. Therapist Sarah Rather, M.Ed., NCC wants you to know that grief doesn’t need to be a scary word- let’s embrace it! Joining a grief group can provide the skills needed to healthily work through and make grief more bearable, and is the safe space needed to remind you that your feelings and experiences are valid and important. You are not alone on this journey.

September 07, 2021

What is EMDR?

September 07, 2021/ Forward Counseling & Psychiatry/ Jessica Shea

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) uses techniques like snapping and tapping to create bilateral stimulation and rapid processing within the brain. Activating this process allows old memories, feeling and thoughts to be “digested” and replaced with a positive belief (Rininger, D). EMDR is evidence based and treatment ends when patients can visualize themselves in a future scenario where they were able to face the re-elaborated targets while feeling no emotional discomfort (Santarnecchi et al., 2019).

December 03, 2019

Have you heard of EMDR?

December 03, 2019/ Jessica Shea

What is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It is a form of therapy that helps people heal from trauma or other distressing life experiences. EMDR therapy has been extensively researched and has demonstrated effectiveness for trauma.