Winter Grief Groups. Bountiful, Utah

Mom's Group - for those who have had a child die.  Mondays, 1:45 - 3:00.  Open Group - meets every other week - next group Monday, January 6.  Contact Becky Andrews, LCMHC, 801.259.3883 or email: becky.lpc@gmail.com for details.  ($20/group).

Evening Grief Group for those who have had a loved one die from Suicide - 8-week group, $150; Begins January 8th 5:30 - 6:45.  Contact Melanie Holt, ACMHC, 801.718.9840 to join.

Evening Grief Group for those who have had a spouse die - 8-week group, $150; begins January 8th 7:00 - 8:15.  Contact Melanie Holt, ACMHC, 801.718.9840 to join.

Day Grief Group for those experiencing the loss of a loved one.  Next group to begin Tuesday, January 14th, 11:45 - 1 PM.  Contact Becky Andrews, LCMHC at 801.259.3883.

Teen Grief Group - Contact Melanie Holt or Becky Andrews for details on the next group.

Within each of us is the capacity to heal, and in any given moment we do the best we can.

Becky and Melanie are licensed therapists specializing in grief and loss.

Groups are located at Resilient Solutions, Inc., 1355 N. Main, Ste. 1, Bountiful, Utah

The Power of Empathy

This is a great clip:  Looking at Empathy & Sympathy

Kindness

Three things in human life are important: the first is to be kind; the second is to be kind; and the third is to be kind. - Henry James

Quotes on Kindness, Love, Service this holiday season on our Facebook Page - Like us at Resilient Solutions, Inc.

Just Listen

Just Listen

"I suspect that the most basic and powerful way to connect to another person is to listen. Just listen. Perhaps the most important thing we ever give each other is our attention. And especially if it's given from the heart. When people are talking, there's no need to do anything but receive them. Just take them in. Listen to what they're saying. Care about it. Most times caring about it is even more important than understanding it. Most of us don't value ourselves or our love enough to know this. It has taken me a long time to believe in the power of simply sayig "I'm so sorry," when someone is in pain. And meaning it. One of my patients told me that when she tried to tell her story people often interrupted to tell her that they once had something just like that happen to them. Subtly her pain became a story about themselves. Eventually she stopped talking to most people. It was just too lonely. I have even learned to respond to someone crying by just listening. In the old old days I used to reach for the tissues, until I realized that passing a person a tissue may be just another way to shut them down, to take them out of their experience of sadness and grief. Now I just listen. When they have cried all they need to cry, they find me there with them. This simple thing has not been that easy to learn. I thought people listened only because they were too timid to speak or did not know the answer. A loving silence often has far more power to heal and to connect than the most well intentioned words."  --Rachel Naomi Remen, M.D.

The Black Dog of Depression

If you haven't seen this, you might find this analogy of depression of  The Black Dog helpful.

If you are in our area and are experiencing depression, please contact one of our therapists to help you through this difficult time.

Love. Grief & the holidays

Here is a nice holiday clip on the holidays, grief and celebrating those you love.  Please share:  our Grief and the Holidays Dinner is coming up for those who have had a loved one die from suicide:  December 18th, 5:30 - 6:45 and 7:00 - 8:30 for those who have had their spouse die.  ($20 for dinner and the group).  To join us contact Melanie Holt, ACMHC at 801.817.9840 or email:  melanie_holt@comcast.net

Belonging starts with self-acceptance

The truth is: Belonging starts with self-acceptance. Your level of belonging, in fact, can never be greater than your level of self-acceptance, because believing that you're enough is what gives you the courage to be authentic, vulnerable and imperfect. When we don't have that, we shape-shift and turn into chameleons; we hustle for the worthiness we already possess.

Read more: http://www.oprah.com/spirit/Life-Lessons-We-All-Need-to-Learn-Brene-Brown#ixzz2n02z6mha

Grief and the Holidays Gatherings

Join us for one of our annual luncheons/dinners of love, support, and food with others who are grieving led by licensed therapists, Becky Andrews, LCMHC and Melanie Holt, ACMHC.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 9th, 

1:00 - 3:00 PM 
for those who have had a loved one die 
To reserve your spot call Becky at 801.259.3883 or email: becky.lpc@gmail.com by Friday, December 6th.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18th
5:30 - 6:45
for those who have had a loved one die from suicide

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18th
7:00 - 8:15
for those who have had their spouse die
To reserve your spot for the evening groups, call Melanie Holt at 801.718.9840 or email:  melanie_holt@comcast.net by Monday, December 16th.

RESILIENT SOLUTIONS INC, 

 1355 N. Main, Ste., 3 Bountiful, UT 

($20 for luncheon or dinner) 

This can make a wonderful gift for someone you know who is grieving.  

Staying tethered

Barb Stainman states:  "Tossed by the waves."  Isn't it a perfect metaphor for that feeling of getting hit with one thing after another?  So when that happens what we all need it a good strong rope tied to the mainland to avoid getting washed out to sea.

A simple effective tether in times of transition or stress is gratitude practice.  It has amazing power to connect us to everything and everyone.  Read more of this great article.

A better week!

Options for this story

Here is a great diet tip: 

Some of the things to eliminate from your diet that pull your attitude down: Gossip, fear, worry, being resentful and anger. 

Spend a week outlining what's good about your life, what you're thankful for, and work to cut back on gossip, fear, worry resentment and anger -- I guarantee you'll have a better week! - Susan Valaskovic

Gratitude

In November we are posting some of our favorite posts on Gratitude.  You can go to our facebook page here.

Here is one shared:

Be thankful for what you have, you'll end up having more.  If you concentrate on what you don't have, you will never ever have enough.  -- Oprah Winfrey.

Nicole Wall, ACMHC

We are very pleased to have Nicole Wall, ACMHC, join our team at Resilient Solutions, Inc in Bountiful!  

Nicole Wall is an Associate Clinical Mental Health Counselor. She earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Human Studies with an emphasis in Mental Health, and her Master of Science Degree in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Phoenix.

Nicole has experience working with substance abuse and a variety of mental health issues. Nicole has had extensive training in assessment and diagnosis, treating depression, anxiety, personality disorders, drug and alcohol issues, as well as individual and relationship counseling. Nicole is passionate about working with children and adolescents.  She incorporates play and art therapy along with elements of mindfulness, relaxation exercises, meditation methods, and cognitive self-awareness into her practice, by using a variety of techniques based upon the client's needs.

Nicole is trained in the work of Dr. Brene Brown and is a CCF-Candidate for Connections.  Nicole is completing her training and working towards certification as a facilitator of Dr. Brene Brown’s The Daring Way. Nicole incorporates and teaches these shame resiliency skills and empathy skills in her sessions. 

Nicole teaches an eight week course called “The Daring Way:  Show Up, Be Seen, Live Brave.”  The Daring Way™ is a highly experiential methodology based on the research of Dr. Brené Brown. The method was developed to help men, women, and adolescents learn how to show up, be seen, and live braver lives. The primary focus is on developing shame resilience skills and developing a courage practice that transforms the way we live, love, parent, and lead.

Before coming to work at Resilient Solutions Inc., Nicole spent over ten years working extensively with law enforcement, specifically dealing with crisis intervention and emergency disaster situations. Nicole worked in an emergency shelter and assisted women and children with issues pertaining to domestic violence and breaking the cycle of abuse. Nicole also worked in a high-risk substance abuse facility where she conducted individual and group therapy, taught anger management, and communication courses.

When not working, Nicole enjoys hiking and camping adventures to Southern Utah with her family, traveling to new places, wakeboarding, road biking, running, scuba diving, reading, and cooking.

To schedule an appointment with Nicole, call her at 801.660.5233.  

Thank you, GriefWatch

Our clients love the beautiful hearts created by Grief Watch .  I am so touched that they are going to send a beautiful heart to each of our walkers and runners.  You can visit their site here.

You can still join us on our run here to support Oasis Center for Grief.
.

Lisa Bradford, LCSW, Bountiful, Utah

Sharing some of our favorite quotes:

Lisa Bradford, LCSW, shares hers:

Never judge your clarity on someone else's response.  Iyanla Vanzant

You can contact Lisa Bradford, therapist at Resilient Solutions, Inc at 801.660.8441.

Grief Groups in Bountiful, Utah

Moms who have had a child die - meet every other Monday -- now from 2-3.  Join us, Monday, October 28th at 2 pm (group is $20/group).  Contact Becky at 801.259.3883 to join.

Spouse Grief Group - for those who have had a spouse die.  Next 8-week group ($150) will begin Wednesday, October 30, 7:15 - 8:30 PM.  Contact Melanie at 801.718.9840 to join.

Group for those who have had a loved one die from suicide.  Next 8-week group ($150) will begin Wednesday, October 30, 5:45 - 7:00 PM  Contact Melanie at 801.718.9840 to join.  

Within each of us is the capacity to heal, 

and in any given moment we do the best we can.

Next Mindfully Managing Stress Course -

In the October session of General Conference Elder Jeffrey R. Holland stated:

In preventing illness whenever possible, watch for the stress indicators in yourself and in others you may be able to help.  As with your automobile, be alert to rising temperatures, excessive speed, or a tank low on fuel.  When you face 'depletion depression' make the requisite adjustments.  Fatigue is the common enemy of us all -- so slow down, rest up, replenish, and refill.  Physicians promise us that if we do not take time to be well, we most assuredly will take time later on to be ill.

Beginning Tuesday, October 22, Melanie Holt, ACMHC,  will offer her next course on Mindfully Managing Stress and Anxiety.  Details:

Mindfully Managing Stress & Anxiety & Depression

October 22, 4:15 - 5:30 ** You can still join us on Oct 29th**

$20/class ($120 - 6-week course).

To register or get more information, contact Melanie Holt directly at 801.718.9840 or email:  melanie_holt@comcast.net.

Living Your Passion

Living your passion!  

Presented by Steve and Becky Andrews

This course will walk you through the process of discovering your strengths, defining your values and putting them together to gain clarity and direction.  We will also look at what may be blocking you in this journey!

4-Week Course:  Wednesdays, October 30-November 20
5:30 - 6:45
$195/course

Space is Limited.

Course held at Resilient Solutions, Inc, 1355 N. Main, Ste. 3, Bountiful, Utah

To register contact Steve Andrews by Monday, October 28th.  Email:  utahbusinesscoach.com or phone:  801.589.0300.  

It's your place in the world; its your life. Go on and do all you can with it and make it the life you want to live. Mae Jemison

Grief Support - 5K Run in Bountiful, Utah.

A family running to remember their daughter, a group of students running to remember their classmate, a group of coworkers running to support their colleague who had a loved one die ... just some who will be running in our Run for Resilience 5K   We hope you will join us as we support the Oasis Center for Grief.

Questions, call Becky at 801.259.3883 or Melanie at 801.718.9840.

Run for Resilience

Mark your calendars for our 5K Run for Resilience on Saturday November 9th - starting and ending at our office at 1355 N. Main, Bountiful, Utah.

If you would like a registration form, email me at becky.lpc@gmail.com.

Specific details coming very soon!!

Resiliency Skills.

Resiliency Skill #1:
Build your coping resources. Exercise, meditate, practice yoga or some other form of relaxation on a regular basis. These activities (when practiced regularly) not only help you relax after a stressful day, they help make more impervious to stress in the future. (Remember what makes a resiliency skill different from a stress management skill is the resiliency skill helps you build an immunity to stress where stress bothers you less and less

Resiliency Skills.

Resiliency Skill #5:
Nurture an attitude of gratitude. Before going to bed at night make a mental list of everything you have to be grateful for. Gratitude is one of the basic underpinnings of contentment and stress resilience. 

It's the weekend - Be GRATEFUL!

For the full list -- LIKE us on  Facebook 
.

Melanie Holt, ACMHC in Bountiful, Utah.

Melanie Holt, ACMHC, specializes in grief and loss, including death, divorce, chronic illness, and addictions. Melanie works with individuals and couples who are going through transitions including: retirement, individuals going away to school, empty nesters, and individuals returning from missions. Melanie also offers group therapy on life transitions, and grief related topics. She facilitates a number of Grief Groups at RSI including groups for Teens, Spouses and a Group for those who have lost a loved one to Suicide. To schedule an appointment call 801-718-9840.

She will be offering a course on Mindfulness and Stress Reduction to begin, Tuesday, October 8 at 11:30.

Contact her at 801.718.9840 or email:  melanie_holt@comcast.net

Stress Management Course. Bountiful, Utah

With kids back in school and holidays approaching, stress and anxiety can feel like an unmanageable growing pile of leaves.

Stress and anxiety cannot be resolved in a 6-week course, but it is plenty of time to learn about implementing tools that can help you dig out of the mess.

Learn the difference between stress and anxiety, how they work together and how you can learn to manage both.

Group will be held on Tuesdays at 11:30 AM beginning October 8 - November 19.  ($20/group session) at Resilient Solutions, Inc. 1355 N. Main, Ste. 1, Bountiful, Utah.  Groups will be facilitated by Licensed Therapist: Melanie Holt, ACMHC.  To register contact her at 801.718.9840.

For dad's who have had a child die. Group in Bountiful, Utah

Our dad's group will be meeting this Thursday, September 26, 5:30 - 6:45 at Resilient Solutions, Inc, 1355 N. Main, Ste. 1, Bountiful.  4-week group ($75).  To join us, contact Michael Van Dam, LCSW, 801.815.6152.

Building your coping resources.

Resiliency Skill #1:
Build your coping resources. Exercise, meditate, practice yoga or some other form of relaxation on a regular basis. These activities (when practiced regularly) not only help you relax after a stressful day, they help make more impervious to stress in the future. (Remember what makes a resiliency skill different from a stress management skill is the resiliency skill helps you build an immunity to stress where stress bothers you less and less.

To join Melanie Holt's Stress and Anxiety Clean up - contact her at 801.718.9840.  Course begins next Thursday, October 3 at 11 AM.  Limited space.  6-week course, $20/group.  

Resilient Kids in Troubling Times

Another greatarticle on Raising Resilient Kids.

Girls Teen Group at RSI

Teen Group: an 8 week self-esteem group discussing issues of positive self-talk, boundary setting, self-nurturing, stress management, and trust issues. Group starts September 30, 2013 Contact Lisa Bradford, LCSW, at 801.660.8441 for details.

Parent's Grief Support. Bountiful, Utah

The loss of a child is difficult. Parents are simply not supposed to outlive their children and no parent is prepared for a child's death.

It is important to remember that how long your child lived does not determine the size of your loss. Parents are intimately involved in the daily lives of young children, and death changes every aspect of family life, often leaving an enormous emptiness. The death of an older child or adolescent is difficult because children at this age are beginning to reach their potential and become independent individuals. When an adult child dies, you not only lose a child, but often a close friend, a link to grandchildren, and an irreplaceable source of emotional and practical support. If you lost your only child, you may also feel that you have lost your identity as a parent, and perhaps the possibility of grandchildren.

In addition to grieving the loss of your child, you may find that you grieve the loss of the hopes and dreams you had for your child, as well as the potential that will never be realized and the experiences you will never share. The pain of these losses will always be a part of you. Yet with time, most parents find a way forward and begin to experience happiness and meaning in life once again.  (cancer.net)

Connecting with others who are experiencing this loss can help in this process:

Mom’s Group for women who have had a child die.  Mondays, 11:00 - 12:15

Ongoing group meets every other week.  Contact Becky Andrews LCMHC, 801.259.3883 for the schedule.  ($20/group)

Dad’s Group for men who have had a child die. 5:30 – 6:45, Thursdays.  Next 4-week group to begin Thursday, September 26. ($75/4-weeks).  Contact Michael Van Dam, LCSW, 801.815.6152 to join. 

We hope you will join us.  You will find an incredible group of parents who will be a support.  

Resilient Solutions, Inc.

1355  N. Main, Ste. 1

Bountiful, Utah

Transformation

We delight in the butterfly but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty.

Maya Angelou

Comfort In. Dump Out.

Great article.

Painting in our office

Walking through our hallway there is a special painting by Susan.  It celebrates resilience!  You can read about her journey here.
..

Story of Resilience

The trees stood silently as the sun slowly began to rise on another beautiful day. A blanket of fresh fallen snow enveloped the orchard. The soft footsteps crunching in the snow gave no indication of what was about to come.

The birds anxious retreat was a warning, but the trees remained steadfast, unable to move. The man in his oversized coat, and heavy snow boots approached the first small tree. He adjusted his hat, then with the steady hand of Babe Ruth pulled out a baseball bat and began beating the first tree. The assault would not end with one small fruit tree, but would continue until every tree in the orchard had received blows.

One might question the sanity of beating fruit trees in freezing temperatures and snow. What good could possibly come from this unusual practice? The man with the baseball bat will tell you “ Putting the trees through stress helps them to grow, and produce more fruit.” Whether his technique is legitimate or not is still in question for me. However, each spring in spite of, or because of the stress the trees blossom and produce beautiful fruit.

How frequently in life do we feel like the fruit trees? Life’s experiences crashing down on us like blows from a baseball bat. The question may arise, will this experience actually make me stronger?

Think back to the most difficult time in your life. Did you survive it? You must have if you are around to read this! How amazing is that? The human spirit, like the fruit trees possess the power of resiliency. Difficult times may push us to the brink of despair, but as one man said, “this adversity has made me part of an elite group who now see the world differently, and recognize what really matters most.”

Resiliency is planted deep into the fiber of who we are. When needed, and sometimes when we least expect it, the seed of resiliency blooms and produces powerful results.

When life’s stressors come, and they will, dig deep, and bloom on!

Thank you for sharing, Melanie Holt, ACMHC.  To schedule an appointment, call 801.718.9840.  

Fall Grief Support. Bountiful, Utah

Fall Grief  Support

  

Teen Group for teens who have had a loved one die, Tuesdays, 4:30-5:30, 6-week group to begin September 3 ($120/6-weeks)  Contact Melanie Holt, ACMHC, to register – 801.718.9840.

Suicide Grief Group (for those experiencing the loss of a loved one from suicide)  Tuesdays, 5:45 – 7:00

8-week group to begin August 27.  ($150/8 weeks) Contact Melanie to register.

Spouse Group for those experiencing the death of a spouse.  Tuesdays, 7:15 – 8:30, 8-week group to begin August 27. ($150/8 weeks) Contact Melanie to register.

Day Grief Group for those experiencing a loss.  Wednesdays, 11:45 – 1:00, 8-week group to begin September 11 ($120/8 weeks) Contact Melanie to register.

Mom’s Group for women who have had a child die.  Mondays, 10:30 – 11:45 

Ongoing group meets every other week.  Contact Becky, 801.259.3883 for the schedule.  ($20/group)

Dad’s Group for men who have had a child die. 5:30 – 6:45, Thursdays.  Next 6-week group to begin Thursday, September 5. ($120/6-weeks).

Within each of us is the capacity to heal,

and at any given moment we do the best we can.

Groups facilitated by Becky Andrews, LCMHC, FT and Melanie Holt, ACMHC

Licensed therapists specializing in grief and loss.

Register for these groups prior to coming by calling Becky at 801.259.3883 or Melanie at 801.718.9840

Email: becky.lpc@gmail.com or melanie_holt@comcast.net

Resilient Solutions, Inc.

1355  N. Main, Ste. 1

Bountiful, Utah

Connecting with your Resiliency.  Grief Retreats in St. George, Utah.

October 23-26,2013

February 19-22, 2014

Connecting with our Resilience

RESILIENT SOLUTIONS, INC.

Being resilient doesn't make our problems go away -- but resilience can give us the ability to see past them, find enjoyment in life and better handle stress.  If you aren't as resilient as you'd like to be, you can develop skills to become more resilient.  Resilience harnesses inner strength that helps us bounce back from a setback or challenge - could be death of a loved one, illness, job loss to mention a few.  

Resilience = Adaptation.  It doesn't mean we need to be stoic, holding it inside or toughing it out!  Being able to reach out to others is a key component of being resilient!

Tips for Resiliency (from the www.mayoclinic.com/health/resilience):

1.  Get Connected:  Building strong, positive relationships with loved ones and friends can provide you with needed support and acceptance in both good times and bad.  Establish other important connections by doing volunteer work, getting involved in your community or joining a faith or spiritual community.  Connecting with others who have experienced a loss as yours ie, a grief group, or another support group can help in building your resiliency as well.
2.  Make every day meaningful:  Do something that gives you a sense of accomplishment and purpose every day.  Set goals to help you look toward the future with meaning.
3.   Learn from experience.  Think back on how you've copies with hardships in the past.  Consider the skills and strategies that helped you through rough times.  You might even write about past experiences in a journal to help you identify both positive and negative behavior patterns -- and guide your behavior in the future.
4.  Remain hopeful.  You can't change what's happened in the past, but you can always look toward the future.  Accepting and even anticipating change makes it easier to adjust and view new challenges with less anxiety.
5.  Take care of yourself.  Tend to your own needs and feelings, both physically and emotionally.  Participate in activities and hobbies you enjoy.  Include physical activity in your daily routine.  Get plenty of sleep.  Eat a healthy diet.  To restore an inner sense of peace or calm, practice stress management and relaxation techniques, such as yoga, meditation,  guided imagery, deep breathing or prayer.
6.  Be proactive.  Don't ignore your problems or try to wish them away.  Instead, figure out what needs to be done, make a plan and take action.  Although it can take time to recover from a major setback, traumatic event or loss,  know that your situation can improve if you actively work at it.

Remember, being resilient takes time and practice. If you don't feel you're making progress -- or you don't know where to start -- consider talking to a therapist.  With guidance, you can improve your resiliency!

Beating Back to School Stress

As the new school year approaches, it can be an exciting and stressful time.  The following article
identifies five ways to help our children:

1.  Listen.
2.  Talk about homework.
3.  Establish a routine.
4.  Know the rules
5.  Un-schedule kids.

If your children is feeling stressed, one of our professionals at Resilient Solutions, Inc. can help you in this process.

The Mourner's Code - Ten Self-Compassion Principles

Ten Self-Compassion Principles:

1.  I have the right to experience my own unique grief.
2.  I have the right to talk about my grief.
3.  I have the right to feel a multitude of emotions.
4.  I have the right to be tolerant of my physical and emotional limits.
5.  I have the right to experience 'griefbursts'.
6.  I have the right to make use of ritual.
7.  I have the right to embrace my spirituality.
8.  I have the right to search for meaning.
9.  I have the right to treasure my memories.
10. I have the right to move toward my grief and heal.

From Dr. Alan Wolfelt's Touchstone Seven - Nurture Yourself (www.centerforloss.com)

Why a Grief Retreat?

Why a Grief Retreat? A retreat for adults offered by Licensed Therapists Becky Andrews & Melanie Holt. Designed to be an educational and experiential program for coping with the death of a loved one. (See previous post for details) “While the death of someone loved changes your life forever, repressing or denying the pain will not make it go away, but understanding and expressing your pain will help you heal.” A.D. Wolfelt, PhD Grieving has no time limit. It may be 2 months or 10 years after a loss. All are welcome to join in learning how to adjust and cope with the loss. What to Expect The grief retreats begin on Wednesday evenings, check-in is at 4pm. The program begins at 5:30pm. The program consists of educational segments that help you fully understand the effects of grieving and learning how to cope and adjust to the loss. **There also will be alone time – opportunities to meet with one of our licensed therapists individually each day and experiential group activities. All activities are optional. Casual clothing is acceptable. Each program offers time for participants to share personal stories, and to hear from other’s how they have been affected and to begin development of new coping skills. The retreats conclude following breakfast on Saturday morning. For more information - contact Becky at 801.259.3883 or email: becky.lpc@gmail.com or Melanie at 801.718.9840 or email: melanie_holt@comcast.net

Grief Retreats. St. George, Utah.

Connecting with Your Resiliency Grief Retreats September 25 - 28, 2013 Nurturing Yourself and Healing from a Loss October 23 – 26, 2013 Nurturing Yourself and Healing from a Loss February 2014 (dates to be announced) $1295 Includes: three nights lodging at the beautiful Coral Springs Resort Meals Included: Wednesday Dinner, Thursday breakfast, Thursday Dinner, Friday breakfast, Saturday breakfast Professional Counseling Group and Experiential Sessions *Space is limited. A $200.00 non-refundable deposit is required, 30 days prior to the retreat, to reserve your space. **Special Introductory Offer for Clients of RSI: $995 Led by Licensed Therapists Becky Andrews, LCMHC, FT & Melanie Holt, ACMHC Contact Becky at becky.lpc@gmail.com or Melanie at melanie_holt@comcast.net for further details.

Dietitian and Nutrition Coach, Becky Crowther, Bountiful, Utah

About Becky Crowther RD

Dietitian and Nutrition Coach Becky Crowther, has worked in the Medical Nutrition Therapy and Weight Loss Industry for over 16 years and has a BS in Food, Science, and Nutrition. She has completed two nationally recognized weight management certifications from the prestigious American Dietetic Association and received Life Coach training through Franklin Covey.  

Becky founded her company Healthy Perspectives in 1996. Her nutrition and health philosophy focuses on what we put in our mouths AND what we put in our minds. She believes that good nutritional habits come from not only understanding what good nutrition means, but in understanding the brilliance of the human body and it’s influence on our happiness and well being. Becky understands that real transformation begins when clients learn to work WITH the body instead of against it.

On a personal note, Becky loves people, has a passion for health, and a weakness for good chocolate. You will see her around Farmington driving her 4 kids to and from school, participating and teaching at community events, taking Tae Kwon Do classes, and if there’s time left over, pulling weeds out of her flower beds!

Resilient Solutions, Inc is happy to have Becky a part of our team!  If you would like to schedule an appointment with Becky, contact her at beckycrowther@gmail.com or phone:  801. 682.6664.

Reaching out for help

Action is the antidote to despair. Joan Baez

Professional Counseling: Make sure to find a good counselor who is a 'good match' for you.  If you are in the SLC/Bountiful area you can visit with one of one of our therapists at Resilient Solutions, Inc.

Summer Grief Groups. Bountiful, Utah - Update

Our grief groups will remain open for the summer session ($20/group session). The group schedule is as follows:

Teen Grief Group - Mondays, 11-12 - next group July 8
Dad's Grief Group - Thursdays, 5:30 - 6:45 - next group July 11
Mom's Grief Group - Mondays, 10:30 - 12 - next group July 15
Spouse Grief Group - Tuesdays, 7 - 8:15 - next group July 2
Suicide Grief Group - Tuesdays, 5:30 - 6:45 - next group July 2

All groups are held at Resilient Solutions, Inc., 1355 N. Main, Ste. 1, Bountiful, Utah and led by licensed therapists specializing in grief and loss:  Becky Andrews, LCMHC, FT and Melanie Holt, ACMHC.  For more information - contact Becky at 801.259.3883 or Melanie at 801.718.9840.

Teen Grief Group. Bountiful, Utah.

With permission from a grieving teen, I share his picture of how to describe his grief. At times it is hard to put into words, rather easier to express through creative ways such as this:

If you know a teen who is grieving in our area, contact Melanie Holt, 801.718,9840 who will be leading the next teen grief group. Also, individual counseling is available. Teen Grief Group will be: Mondays 11-12, next group to begin Monday, July 1st at Resilient Solutions, Inc., Suite 1, Bountiful, Utah. Group is $120 for 6-weeks or $20/group session.

Finding our Strength

In difficult times, it might be hard to remember that we do have the strength within to journey through those difficult times. Stop and take a minute and write a letter to yourself. In working with clients, the words they write to themselves are insightful, encouraging and demonstrate their strength.

Support through the stormy times

Our therapists can help you through that stormy time. Contact one of our therapists at Resilient Solutions, Inc in Bountiful, Utah.

Teens Share ... (Teen Grief Group)

One teen shared what she found helpful in our teen grief group:

Its helpful to open up to all the things that are hard to talk about in normal social situations.  I think it is easier to open up because there is safety in privacy in sharing in a group.  Also many times people can understand certain things you are feeling so you don't feel so alone.

If you know a teen that is grieving in the SLC/Davis County, Utah area, please invite them to join our teen group -- Mondays at 11-12 at Resilient Solutions, Inc.  ($20/group session).   Contact Melanie Holt, 801.718.9840 or Becky Andrews, 801.259.3883 for details.  

Edward Seiler, LACMHC. Bountiful, Utah

We are pleased to introduce Ed Seiler to our office at Resilient Solutions, Inc.   He brings extensive experience.  To schedule an appointment contact him at 570.579.6558.

Edward Seiler, ACMHC, Specializes in helping adolescents and children with anxiety, depression, behavior problems and sexual and physical abuse. Edward has worked in Pennsylvania for the past sixteen years with various agencies as a masters level therapist and has also done marriage and family counseling. You can reach Ed at: 570 579 6558 or email:  seileredward@yahoo.com.

Teen Grief Group. Bountiful, Utah

Our next Teen Grief Group will begin Monday, June 17, 11-12 at Resilient Solutions, Inc., 1355 N. Main, Ste. 1, Bountiful, Utah.  The Licensed Therapist leading this group will be Melanie Holt, 801.718.9840.  The group will be 6-weeks ($120).  Contact Melanie by phone or email at:  melanie_holt@comcast.net for more information.  If you know a teen who is grieving in our area, please share this information with them.  Sharing in a group can help know you are not alone.

Dad's Grief Group. Bountiful, Utah

A father shared:

I wanted to let you know that we are starting a Father's grief group on Wednesday, June 19th at 5:30 PM.  The address is Resilient Solutions (wwww.resilientsolutionsinc.com)

1355 N. Main Suite #1 in Bountiful, Utah.

It will be a 6 week session to begin with.  The total cost is $120.00, or $20.00 per session.  

I think this group will be helpful in that the participants are exclusively father's who have lost.  I have been looking forward to the meetings and meeting/seeing all of you. 

Maybe just give it a try and see if it's for you.  I, personally, could use some contact with people who have an idea of what this is.

Our facilitator will be Becky Andrews LCMHC.  She has vast experience and has helped our family significantly.

If you have questions about the group, or its content, contact Becky at:becky.lpc@gmail.com, or by phone at 801-259-3883

Please RSVP to Becky's email or by phone.

I would really like this group to gain some traction so we can all benefit.  You are welcome to forward this to any other fathers that are in our same boat.

Summer Grief Groups. Bountiful, Utah

Summer Grief Support

(6-week Group/$120)

Mom’s Group for women who have had a child die.  Mondays, 10:30 – 11:45 

(Six-week – every other week group: June 3, 17, July 1, 15, 29, August 12)

Dad’s Group for men who have had a child die. 5:30 – 6:45, Wednesday June12 – July 31 (no groups July 3 & 24)

Teen Group (for teens who have had a loved one die.),  11-12.  Mondays June 17 – July 22.

Mindfully Grieving Group, Evening Group. (for those experiencing a loss – come learn healthy mindful skills in the grieving process)  Six-week June 12- July 31 (no groups July 3 & 24), 7-8:15 PM

Mindfully Grieving Group, Day Group. (for those experiencing a loss – come learn healthy mindful skills in the grieving process).  Contact Becky, 801.259.3883 for time.

Evening Grief Group (Suicide – for those experiencing the loss of a loved one from suicide)  Tuesdays, 5:30 – 6:45, June 11 – July 16

Evening Grief Group for those experiencing the death of a spouse.  Evening Grief Group for those experiencing the death of a loved one.  Tuesdays, 7:00 – 8:15 June 11 – July 16

Within each of us is the capacity to heal,

and at any given moment we do the best we can.

Groups facilitated by Becky Andrews, LCMHC, FT and Melanie Holt, LAPC

Licensed therapists specializing in grief and loss.

Register for these groups by calling Becky at 801.259.3883 or Melanie at 801.718.9840

Email: becky.lpc@gmail.com or melanie_holt@comcast.net

Resilient Solutions, Inc.

1355  N. Main, Ste. 1

Bountiful, Utah

Vulnerability - Wholehearted Living

If you haven't yet, listen:
Vulnerability

If you'd like to schedule an appointment with one of our therapists at RSI in Bountiful, Utah visit our website at:  Resilient Solutions, Inc.

Summer Grief Support.

Resilient Center for Grieving Families will be offering several specialized grief groups this summer.  Each group is offered for 6-weeks/$120 for the full group session.  If you'd like more information, please contact Becky Andrews, LCMHC, becky.lpc@gmail.com or Melanie Holt, LAPC, at melanie_holt@comcast.net.   All groups are offered at Resilient Solutions, Inc. at 1355 N. Main, Ste. 1, Bountiful, Utah

Mom's Group:  For women who have had a child die.  Mondays, 10:30 - 11:45 to begin June 3 (every other week).

Dad's Group: for men who have had a child die.  Wednesday, June 12 - July 31 5:40 - 6:45 (excluding July 3 & 24)

Teen Group: for teens who have had a loved one die.  Mondays, 11-12, June 17-July 22.

Mindfully Evening Grieving Group:  June 12-July 31, 7-8:15 PM

Mindfully Day Grieving Group:  To be announced.

Grief Group for those who have had a loved one die from Suicide:  Tuesdays, 5:30 - 6:45, June 11-July 16

Grief Group for those experiencing the death of a spouse:  Tuesdays, 7-8:15, June 11-July 16.

Soulful Eating. Becky Crowther, RD

We are pleased that Becky Crowther, Registered and Certified Dietitian, is in our office!  You can contact her to set up an appointment at 801.682.6664 or email:  beckycrowther@gmail.com.

Today she shared with our staff:  10 tips to Soulful Eating.

1.  Focus on fellowship.  Dine with others, sharing your meal with family and friends.
2.  Give thanks.  Express and feel gratitude for your food, acknowledge your connection with all life.
3.  Create a ritual.  Any practice that connects us with the sacred; prayer, a moment of contemplation, visualization, etc.
4. Grow your own.  Grow your own herbs, or garden in the back yard.  Help reconnect you to the 'circle' of life.
5.  Plan ahead.  Always carry fresh water and a healthy snack with you.  Making time and planning for your needs will give you a sense of peace and calm.
6.  Slow down.  Pause briefly to reflect on your food and observe what it provides for you.  Think about why you are eating at the moment and what stage of hunger you are in.
7.  Buy local.  There is something about eating 'home-grown' and fresh..  Usually tastes better than supermarket anyway and gives you a more interesting variety.  Allows you to eat with the seasons.
8.  Eat outside.  There's something about nature that makes you feel like a part of something greater than yourself.  A delight to the senses.
9.  Connect with the present moment.  In both preparing and eating meal, focus on appearance, aroma, texture, and taste.
10.  Go with the flow.  These changes take time - let them occur naturally.  Small changes make a big difference.

Mothers who are Grieving

We had our annual Mother's Day Luncheon for mother's who are grieving the death of a child. I love these women and love to transform our group room into a place for a lunch and a time to remember them and their children who have died.

What Grieving Mothers Want for Mother's Day

By Renee Wood

Over 80 percent of the nearly 100 respondents in a survey of mothers who are grieving answered, "Recognize that I am a mother" to the question of how can someone help. In addition, nearly every mother surveyed wanted their loss to be remembered with a card, a phone call, a gift or a hug. Over half of the mothers surveyed considered Mother's Day to be their most difficult holiday.
In response to the heartfelt answers given by the survey participants, the Comfort Company has issued a list of the ten things grieving mothers want most for Mother's Day:
1. Recognize that they are a Mother: Offer a hug and a "Happy Mother's Day". Send a simple Mother's Day card to let them know you remember that they are a mother even though their child is not with them physically.
2. Acknowledge that they have had a loss: Express the message, "I know this might be a difficult day for you. I want you to know that I am thinking about you today." Removing the wall of silence gives a grieving mother permission to talk about her child.
3. Use their child's name in conversation: Saying the name of a child who has died is like music to a grieving mothers ears. One mother suggested, "Say his name and ask me my fondest memory of him from past Mother's Days".
4. Plant a living memorial: This is a wonderful day to plant a tree or flower bulbs in memory of the child. This is something that will live on as a beautiful reminder in the years to come.

5. Visit the Gravesite: Many mothers felt that it was "extremely thoughtful" when others visited their child's gravesite and left flowers or a small pebble near the headstone.

6. Light a Candle: Let the mother know you will light a candle in memory of their child on Mother's Day.

7. Share a Memory or Pictures of the Child: Give the precious gift of a memory. One mother wrote that the "greatest gift you can give is a heart felt letter about my child and your most lovely moments with them".

8. Send a Gift of Remembrance: Many mothers suggested appropriate gifts of remembrance that would bring them comfort. These items included: an angel statue, a piece of jewelry, a memory box, a memorial candle, a picture frame, a library book donation, an ornament, memorial poetry, anything personalized with the child's name or a date, books on grief, a garden stone or a toy donation in the child's name.

9. Don't try to minimize their loss: Avoid using any cliches that attempt to explain the death of a child. ( "God needed another angel.") Secondly, don't try to find anything positive about the loss ( "You still have two healthy children" or "She's in a better place").

10. Encourage Self-Care: Self-care is an important aspect of the "healing the mind and spirit effort" according to several mothers. Encourage a grieving mother to take care of herself. Give her a gift certificate to a day spa or any place where she can be pampered.

Grieving Mom's Lunch. Bountiful, Utah.

Join us for our annual Mother's Day Celebration like none other.

Monday, May 6, 2013

11:30 - 1:00 PM

Mother's Day Lunch and Sharing

for

Mother's who have had a child die

Register:

Becky Andrews, LCHMC, at email:  becky.lpc@gmail.com

Send $20 per mother for lunch by May 3rd to Resilient Solutions, Inc, 1355 N. Main, Ste. 1, Bountiful, Utah 84010.  

We hope you can join us.

Apologies, Forgiveness & Gratitude

Apologies, Forgiveness & Gratitude

Research suggests that embracing attitudes of forgiveness and gratitude has positive benefits for a person’s physical and mental health!

“An apology can lower your levels of anxiety and stress, reduce your blood pressure, decrease your risk of having alcohol or other substance abuse problems, and can result in a reduction in the symptoms of depression” states Dr. Scott Haltzman, M.D.

Forgiveness has many positive physical health benefits.  Frederic Luskin from Stanford University states that when we are willing to forgive, and learn to forgive, we can actually experience much fewer symptoms of stress such as backache, muscle tension, dizziness, headaches, and upset stomachs.  Our appetites, sleep patterns, energy levels, and general well-being can also improve.  The positive mental health benefits of forgiveness include reducing hurt feelings, anger, stress, and depression.  Learning to forgive helps us to become more hopeful, optimistic, and compassionate.

Gratitude isn’t just a feel-good idea.  Ron Cathey from Louisiana Tech University states that research reveals gratitude can improve physical health, mental health, life longevity and interpersonal relationships.

Counseling Today/January 2012; The Benefits of Forgiveness and Gratitude, Lynne Shallcross

For more information and insight on apologies, forgiveness, and gratitude contact Monica Forsman, M.Ed., LCMHC at Resilient Solutions, Inc., in Bountiful, Utah.

Monica can be reached at (801) 604-5040 or email at: monica.lapc@gmail.com

Mind & Body

You can check out this beautiful site for more uplifting messages.

If you are in the Davis County/Salt Lake area and seeking a therapist to help you in your journey to See Beautiful, contact one of  our Therapists at RSI

How are you Sleeping?

From psychologytoday.org

Sleeping well is a habit that you can learn!  Small changes can have big effects.  Start today:

Take care of your body
- Avoid caffeine, tea, coffee or coca-cola after 4 o'clock
- Do not eat a big or spicy meal late in the evening.
- Do not go to bed hungry
- Avoid alcohol as it interferes with sleep.

Physical exercise, such as a brisk walk, in the later afternoon can help to make your body tired and help you to sleep.  Try to do some exercise every day.

Sleep only at night-time and do not have day-time naps, no matter how tired you feel.  Naps keep the problem going by making it harder for you to get to sleep the next night.

Having a regular bedtime routine teaches your body when it's time to go to sleep.
- Have a soothing drink like tea or a milk drink
- Have a bath, or a routine of washing your face and brushing your teeth.
- Go to bed at same time each night.
- When in bed think of nice things (e.g. think of 5 nice things that happened that day - big or small)
- Do a relaxed breathing exercise (one hand on stomach, other on chest, deliberately slow your breathing, breathe deep in your stomach instead of high in your chest)
- Try and wake up the same time every day, even if this is tiring to begin with.

Coping with bad dreams can be difficult.  Some people don't like relaxation before going to sleep, or are scared of letting go.  If that is you, try these preparation techniques instead:
- Prepare yourself in case you have bad dreams by thinking of a bad dream then think of a different ending for it.  Practice this new ending many times before going to sleep.
- Before going to sleep prepare to reorient yourself when you wake from a bad dream.
- Remind yourself that you are at home, that you are safe.  Imagine your street, buses, local shops.
- Put a damp towel or a bowl of water by the bed to splash your face, place a special object by the bed, such as a photograph, or a small soft toy.
- Practice imagining yourself waking up from a bad dream and reorienting yourself to the present, to safety by splashing your face, touching a special object, having a bottle of rose or lavender essential oil to sniff, going to the window to see surroundings.
- When you wake up from a bad dream - move your body if you can and reorient yourself immediately (touching object, wetting face, going to the window, talk to yourself in a reassuring way)

Make your bedroom a pleasant place to be

- Get a nightlight
- Keep it clean and tidy
- Introduce pleasant smells such as a drop of lavender oil onto the pillow
- Get extra pillows
- Make sure that your home is safe e.g. doors locked, windows closed.  

REMEMBER:  Bed is for sleeping, so if you cannot sleep after 30 minutes, get up and do another activity elsewhere such as reading or listening to music (try and avoid TV as it can wake you up).  After 15 minutes return to bed and try to sleep again.  If you still can't sleep after 30 minutes get up again.  Repeat this routine as many times as necessary and only use your bed for sleeping in.

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If you would like to meet with a licensed mental health professional in the Salt Lake/Davis area, call one of our therapists listed at  Resilient Solutions, Inc. 

Grief Groups in Bountiful, Utah

Our next grief groups will begin, Tuesday, March 26th at Resilient Solutions, Inc, 1355 N. Main, Ste, 1, Bountiful, Utah.

For more information contact Melanie Holt, 801.718.9840 or Becky Andrews, 801.259.3883, licensed professional counselors specializing in grief and loss. (Groups are $150 for 8-week course).

Tuesday evenings:
5:30 - 6:45 PM Group for those who have had a loved one die from Suicide.  Next group - April 9th
7:00 - 8:15 PM Group for those who have had a loved one die. 

Next teen grief group will begin Monday, April 8, 4-5:15 for teens who have had a loved one die.

A loss is a powerful and emotional experience. Gathering relevant information, talking about your loss, and supporting others who have had a similar loss can be helpful in the healing process and are all part of what is gained by joining a grief group led by a professional therapist.

Lisa Steed, LCSW, Bountiful, Utah.

Lisa Steed, LCSW, has over 15 years of varied experience in the field.  Her  areas of expertise include anxiety, depression and bi-polar disorder. She is experienced in marriage and family therapy, and relationship issues. She works with addiction including alcohol and drug addiction, pornography and sexual addiction. She has had extensive experience in working with sexual abuse (AMAC) and working with adolescents who are dealing with emotional, behavioral, and mental health problems and parenting education. Lisa can be reached at (801) 231-8914 to schedule an appointment at Resilient Solutions Inc, 1355 N. Main, Ste. 1, Bountiful, Utah 84010.  

Monica Forsman, LCMHC, Bountiful, Utah.

Monica Forsman, M.Ed., LCMHC specializes in women's issues of interpersonal concerns, marriage and family counseling. Monica’s clinical experience includes individual and group therapy for stress, anxiety, depression/mood disorders, and substance abuse. Monica is experienced working with individuals, families and groups who have witnessed traumatic incidences or accidents. Monica focuses on self-awareness, on the individual’s inherent strength and the ability to harness their strength’s to enhance well-being. She is also bilingual and fluent in Swedish. Monica is available to schedule an appointment at 801-604-5040.

Journaling

I write because I don't know what I think until I read what I say.  Flannery O'Connor

Here are 10 tips to get started from tinybuddha.com:

1. Start writing about where you are in your life at this moment. Describe your living situation, your work, and your relationships. Are you right where you want to be?

2. For five to ten minutes just start writing in a “stream of consciousness.” Don’t edit your thoughts or feelings and don’t correct your grammar. Don’t censor your thoughts.

3. Start a dialogue with your inner child by writing in your subdominant hand. Answer with your dominant hand. What issues emerge?

4. Cultivate an attitude of gratitude by maintaining a daily list of things you appreciate in your life, including uplifting quotes. Keep it in one journal or in a separate section so that you can read through it all at once. When you feel down you can read through it for a boost of gratitude and happiness.

5. Start a journal of self-portraits. You can take pictures, draw colors or shapes or collage images. Learn to love and accept yourself just the way you are today.

6. Keep a nature diary to connect with the natural world. The world we live in is a magical and mysterious place. Record the things you notice about the sky, the weather, and the seasons.

7. Maintain a log of successes. Begin by writing the big ones you remember then regularly jot down small successes that occur during the week. As you pay attention, your list will grow and inspire you.

8. Keep a log or playlist of your favorite songs. Write about the moods they evoke. When you hear a song that triggers a strong memory, write down how you feel and explore that time and space of your life.

9. If there is something you are struggling with or if there is an event that is disturbing you, write about it in the third person. This will give you distance and provide a new perspective. Write down what you learned about yourself.

10. Develop your intuition. Write down questions or concerns then take a deep breath and listen for a response from your Higher Self.  Let yourself write automatically. If you don’t get an answer right away, look for signs during the day