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Exploring Borders: Moving Abroad? Deciding to move abroad is a thrilling prospect that opens up a world of possibilities. Whether you’re drawn to adventure, cultural exploration, career opportunities, or a change in lifestyle, living outside of the US can be a transformative experience. However, it’s essential to approach this decision with careful consideration and planning […]
Deciding to move abroad is a thrilling prospect that opens up a world of possibilities. Whether you’re drawn to adventure, cultural exploration, career opportunities, or a change in lifestyle, living outside of the US can be a transformative experience. However, it’s essential to approach this decision with careful consideration and planning to ensure a smooth transition and enjoyable stay in your new home.
Whether you’re dreaming of a quaint European town, bustling Asian metropolis, or serene beachside retreat, moving abroad can turn your dreams into reality. Consider attending some life or career counseling prior to making your move.
1. Cultural Adjustment:
Moving abroad means immersing yourself in a new culture, which can be both enriching and challenging. Consider the cultural differences in language, social norms, food, and daily customs. Take time to learn about the local culture, traditions, and etiquette to foster understanding and integration.
2. Visa and Legal Requirements:
When exploring borders and moving abroad, ensure you understand the visa and residency requirements of your chosen country. Research the necessary permits, visas, and any legal documentation needed to live and work there legally. Consulting with immigration experts or the embassy of your destination country can provide clarity on these matters.
3. Cost of Living:
Research the cost of living in your destination country, including housing, utilities, groceries, healthcare, and transportation. Consider how your income (if you’re working remotely or locally) or savings will translate in the new environment. Factor in currency exchange rates and potential fluctuations.
4. Healthcare and Insurance:
Investigate the healthcare system in your new country. Determine if you need private health insurance or if public healthcare is accessible to expatriates. Understand what coverage is available and how it compares to what you’re accustomed to in the US.
5. Employment and Income:
If you’re moving abroad for work, secure a job offer or understand the job market in your field. Research potential employers, networking opportunities, and how your skills and qualifications align with local demands. If you’re relocating without a job, explore options for remote work, freelance opportunities, or starting a business.
6. Education and Family Considerations:
When exploring borders and moving abroad, consider the quality of education options in your destination country. Understand the schooling system, language of instruction, and any requirements for enrollment. Additionally, consider the impact of the move on your family and discuss potential challenges and opportunities together.
7. Language and Communication:
Language can be a significant barrier or bridge when living abroad. Evaluate your proficiency in the local language and consider language classes or immersion programs to enhance your communication skills. Even in countries where English is widely spoken, learning the local language can greatly enrich your experience.
8. Social Support and Community:
Building a social network in your new country is crucial for emotional support and integration. Seek out expatriate communities, local clubs, or hobby groups that align with your interests. Engaging with locals and fellow expatriates can help you navigate cultural differences and feel more at home.
9. Legal and Tax Implications:
Understand the legal implications of living abroad, including tax obligations in both your home country (such as filing requirements for US citizens) and your new country of residence. Consult tax advisors or professionals who specialize in expatriate tax matters to ensure compliance and minimize any potential financial burdens.
10. Personal Adjustment and Expectations:
Moving abroad is a significant life change that requires flexibility, adaptability, and a positive mindset. Be prepared for moments of homesickness, cultural shock, or logistical challenges. Embrace the adventure with realistic expectations and an openness to new experiences.
Conclusion:
Moving abroad can be a transformative journey filled with opportunities for personal growth, career advancement, and cultural enrichment. By considering these factors – from cultural adaptation and legal requirements to financial planning and personal expectations – you can embark on your international adventure with confidence and preparation. Remember, each destination offers its own unique charm and challenges, so approach your move abroad with curiosity, resilience, and a spirit of exploration. All things considered, take time and explore different areas, experience different cultures, and enjoy safe travels.
Ending a relationship with a Narcissist Ending a relationship can be a difficult and emotionally taxing process under any circumstances. However, when you find yourself entangled with a narcissist, breaking free can become a complex and challenging process. Narcissists exhibit a range of manipulative and controlling behaviors, making it crucial to navigate the process with […]
Ending a relationship with a Narcissist
Ending a relationship can be a difficult and emotionally taxing process under any circumstances. However, when you find yourself entangled with a narcissist, breaking free can become a complex and challenging process. Narcissists exhibit a range of manipulative and controlling behaviors, making it crucial to navigate the process with care and consideration. In this blog, we’ll discuss the steps to help you end a relationship with a narcissist while protecting your well-being.
1. Recognize the Signs of Narcissism
Before you can effectively disentangle yourself from a narcissistic relationship, it’s essential to recognize the signs of narcissistic behavior. Narcissists often display traits such as a constant need for attention, a lack of empathy, manipulative tendencies, and a sense of entitlement. Understanding these behaviors is the first step to empowerment.
2. Seek Support From Friends and Family
Reaching out to friends, family members, or a therapist can be instrumental in helping you end a relationship with a narcissist. It’s common for narcissists to isolate their partners and undermine their self-esteem. A support network can provide emotional validation and guidance during this challenging time.
3. Set Boundaries
Narcissists often violate personal boundaries and engage in controlling behaviors. Establish clear and firm boundaries to protect yourself. Communicate your boundaries assertively, and be prepared to enforce them. This may lead to resistance from the narcissist, but stay resolute.
4. Plan Your Exit Strategy
Exiting a relationship with a narcissist should be a well-thought-out process. Create a plan that includes practical steps to ensure your safety and well-being. This plan may involve finding a safe place to stay, securing your financial resources, and seeking legal advice if needed.
5. No Contact Rule
Implement the “no contact” rule as soon as you can. Narcissists thrive on attention and control, and cutting off all communication is the most effective way to disempower them. Block their calls, texts, and social media accounts. If you must communicate, keep it minimal and focused on essential matters.
6. Stay Strong and Focused
Narcissists are adept at manipulation, and they may attempt to hoover you back into the relationship with promises of change or guilt trips. It’s essential to remain steadfast in your decision and stay focused on your well-being and personal growth.
7. Self-Care and Healing
After ending a relationship with a narcissist, prioritize self-care and healing. Seek therapy or counseling to address any emotional trauma you may have experienced. Reconnect with your passions, interests, and hobbies to rebuild your self-esteem.
8. Learn from the Experience
Conclusion:
Use this difficult experience as an opportunity for personal growth and self-reflection. Understand the red flags you missed and the patterns of behavior you tolerated. This self-awareness can help you make better choices in future relationships. Ending a relationship with a narcissist is a challenging and emotional journey, but it’s a necessary step toward reclaiming your life and well-being. By recognizing the signs, seeking support, setting boundaries, and planning your exit carefully, you can regain control and start on the path to healing and personal growth. Remember, you deserve a healthy and fulfilling relationship, and by taking these steps, you can break free from the grasp of a narcissist and move towards a brighter future.
I want to take this opportunity to thank Alison Pidgeon @alisonpidgeon for interviewing me for the Practice of the Practice ~ Grow a Group Practice Podcast ~ Follow @PracticeofthePractice. My interview will be available on 11/11/2021. My passion is connecting with other therapists that are interested in growing and scaling their individual & group counseling practices. I […]
I want to take this opportunity to thank Alison Pidgeon
PRACTICE OF THE PRACTICE PODCAST: Itunes Episode 93
FACEBOOK: USA Therapists – Private Practice Strategy ~ https://www.facebook.com/groups/privatepracticestrategist
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/kcoughlinconsults/
YOUR VA FINDER: https://www.yourvafinder.com/united-states/ormond-beach/online-service/kathleen-coughlin
LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kcoughlinlcsw/
WEBSITE: https://kcoughlinlcsw.com/consulting/
BIO SITE: https://bio.site/kcoughlinconsults
#PracticeofthePractice #alisonpidgeon #kcoughlinlcsw #kcoughlinconsults
Reimbursify for out-of-network claim reimbursement. Reimbursify is a program that you can use to help submit for reimbursement from your health insurance plan for any out-of-network claims. The Reimbursify program can be used to help you simplify all of your out-of-network claims processing for different providers that you or your family members see for medical […]
Reimbursify for out-of-network claim reimbursement. Reimbursify is a program that you can use to help submit for reimbursement from your health insurance plan for any out-of-network claims. The Reimbursify program can be used to help you simplify all of your out-of-network claims processing for different providers that you or your family members see for medical services. You can try Reimbursify for free by submitting your first claim through their website.
Reimbursify.com’s website states, “Built on our decades of experience in the healthcare industry, Reimbursify’s proprietary claim-filing process ensures efficient submissions that get reimbursed fast.” Reimbursify works for any out-of-network, therapist, doctor office, specialist, and with any insurance company. It will be important for you to ask your provider for a Detailed Receipt / Superbill. This form will need to have the following information on the form in order for your claims to process correctly the first time.
If you have out-of-network insurance benefits you can contact your insurance directly by calling the phone number on the back of your insurance card. You can then confirm with the member services department directly to find out what percent of the payment you made to each provider will be reimbursed if any. Ex. Some plans may reimburse 60% to 90% of the approved rate that your insurance sets for that procedure code based on your specific insurance plan and the state where you reside.
Kathleen Coughlin has not directly used Reimbursify and Reimbursify.com in the past. It is important for you to contact your Health Insurance directly to learn about your specific out-of-network benefits. Reimbursify out-of-network claim reimbursement questions can be directed by email to https://reimbursify.com/contact-us. Our office is sharing this information based on the recommendation of other clients. Our office has registered our providers with Reimbursify to help expedite your claims processing.
One of the most difficult transitions in life to face is perhaps a divorce or separation from a partner with whom you have children. This is where Coparenting 101 will help support parents in raising a well-adjusted child. Divorce or separation can be painful for the parents and children. Children are looking to their parents […]
One of the most difficult transitions in life to face is perhaps a divorce or separation from a partner with whom you have children. This is where Coparenting 101 will help support parents in raising a well-adjusted child. Divorce or separation can be painful for the parents and children. Children are looking to their parents for emotional reassurance. No matter their age, the separation of one’s parents is a difficult challenge to face. It can also be challenging to co-parent with an ex-partner.
The truth is, if the children are young, you have many years ahead of you of working through the potentially awkward, definitely uncomfortable unyielding, and the formidable realm of parenting responsibilities. Co-parenting requires empathy, patience, and open communication for success. Despite the difficulty, it is crucial that you and your co-parent are on the same page. It is important to work together when it comes to parenting strategies with little ones and teens alike. Here are some best practices to keep in mind when planning your parenting strategy.
Arrange to do this through whichever medium works best for your family, be it email, texting, letters, or face-to-face conversation. There are even some apps you can download directly to your phone where you can upload schedules, share information, and communicate with parents. However, It is imperative that your child is not used as the primary source of information.
Children thrive under routine and structure, especially when in the midst of a confusing divorce or separation. Issues like mealtime, bedtime, and completing chores should be consistent. This sense of security and predictability for children will help to protect against future manipulation and pitting co-parents against one another. Research shows that children in homes with a unified parenting approach have greater well-being.
Model for your children that you wish for them to have a positive relationship with the other parent. Make it a rule to not talk disrespectfully about the other parent. With your extended family make sure that they are aware that negative talk is not allowed around the children. Focusing on the positive qualities of your co-parent will also allow your children to do the same. Times of great transition in our lives are also times of great learning, for both you and your children. The transition will test the depth of your maturity and patience. Your children will need you there to support them as they deal with painful emotions. As always, remember that despite the pain of the separation or divorce, you are the parent, and it is your job to rise above the temptations that may present themselves.
Of course, the pain of separation will be tough on you, and it is absolutely fine for you to seek support (or therapy of your own). However, no matter how good of a listener they are, your child does not need to be subject to the emotionally charged issues surrounding the divorce or separation. Research shows that allowing children to be in the middle of adult issues promotes a sense of helplessness and insecurity. This rule also stands for attempting to use your children as bartering chips in an all-out war. Coparenting 101 encourages the parents to talk with one another and now place the children in the middle of the conflict.
Resist the temptation to be the “cool parent” when your children are with you. This tends to only serve to create a cycle of resentment, hostility, and resistance to rules that will surely become an issue later on in life. By allowing your child to wiggle out of responsibility, you might get the desired result at first, but it turns out you are creating more challenges for your children in the long run. Consistency is key in successful transitions from household to household. Coparenting 101- get down to the basics and coparent for the best interest of your children.
When you get word of something your co-parent did from your children, take a breath and remain quiet. Remember that it’s always good to remain neutral when things like this happen, as your child can learn to resent and distrust you if you cheer them on. On this note, pursue clarification with your co-parent if an aspect of their parenting style is troubling to you.
If it is difficult to have constructive conversations with the other parent because of your history together, think of it as a working business relationship. Use those positive communication skills, and practice the message you want to get across without pointing fingers or blaming them into a defensive stance where little will get accomplished.
Do not give in to guilt – It is easy to see how tempting it may be to allow negative feelings about not being in your child’s life on a full-time basis, or for putting them in a difficult situation to easily convert into acts of overindulgence to “make up” for a “broken home”. Learn how to express empathy for your children and their feelings about the situation, but set limits and remain consistent. Research shows that without limits, children can become self-centered, lack empathy, and be left unrestrained, which will lead to an inflated sense of entitlement.
If it has not become abundantly apparent, working through a separation and figuring out how to co-parent well is decidedly one of the most important events that will impact the development of a child. Equally apparent is the amount of willpower and strength it requires to lead your children through such a challenge into healthy adjustment. You may find it helpful to recruit a counselor who has helped countless families navigate these very same waters either to help process your feelings about the separation or to help establish a co-parenting strategy with the other parent.
We are here to teach you the Coparenting 101 skills and support your family during this transition. Please call our office at 610-248-0059 to schedule an appointment today.
This blog was written and prepared by Rachel O’Connor.
Start, Scale, Sell Your Practice Know that your practice is an asset! I offer Concierge Coaching for behavioral health practitioners, Solo Therapists wanting to build a group practice, Small and Large Group Practices that are preparing to be acquired. Collaborating with Experts in the mental health field to help you to grow and build your counseling […]
Start, Scale, Sell Your Practice
Know that your practice is an asset!
I offer Concierge Coaching for behavioral health practitioners, Solo Therapists wanting to build a group practice, Small and Large Group Practices that are preparing to be acquired. Collaborating with Experts in the mental health field to help you to grow and build your counseling practices. Please connect with me to discuss the goals of your practice.
instagram.com/startscalesellyourpractice
Below are some tips managing working from home. These strategies may help you create a sense of structure, routine, consistency, and perhaps a boost in your emotional health. Prior to the COVID-19 Virus, home was where we would spend time with our family members. For many of us it has recently become our workplace, the […]
Below are some tips managing working from home. These strategies may help you create a sense of structure, routine, consistency, and perhaps a boost in your emotional health. Prior to the COVID-19 Virus, home was where we would spend time with our family members. For many of us it has recently become our workplace, the classroom, and maybe even the gym.
It may be helpful to dedicate a space in your home to create a makeshift work environment for the time being. Life transitions and changes continue to transform how we manage our lives a little more each week.
Ask yourself the following questions:
How am I managing the transition to working at home?
How am I adjusting to not socializing with friends and co-workers?
How am I feeling now that I cannot attend classes or go to gym?
Tips for Managing Working from Home
If you need someone to talk to during this uncertain time it may be helpful to reach out for professional counseling. Telehealth Counseling is available from the comfort of your home. Telehealth Counseling may be approved by your health insurance or employee assistance company.
If you have questions related to your counseling benefits, please feel free to contact our office at 386-449-8600 or by Email: Info@OceanVistaCounsel.com.
To learn more about the Online Telehealth Counseling Program please click here.
To learn more about COVID-19, please visit the Centers for Disease Control.
This blog was prepared by Emilia DaSilva, LMHC.
We are all experiencing the psychological impact of COVID-19 during this uncertain time locally and globally. Individually, people are experiencing an emotional impact based on the life changes occurring around them. We can remain socially united as a community by supporting one another during this global crisis. Common Terms: Social Isolation, Self-Isolation, Social Distancing and […]
We are all experiencing the psychological impact of COVID-19 during this uncertain time locally and globally. Individually, people are experiencing an emotional impact based on the life changes occurring around them. We can remain socially united as a community by supporting one another during this global crisis.
The terms Social Isolation, Self-Isolation, Social Distancing, and Physical Separation, have changed how we interact with one another. Many people have gone from working full-time to being furloughed or laid off. Others have gone from working in an office environment to being socially isolated working from home.
Psychological Impact COVID-19 can take a toll on your emotional health and the emotional health of loved ones. Common psychological symptoms and reactions may include: anxiety, depression, fear of leaving the house, excessive worry, feeling overwhelmed, increased substance use, loneliness, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, racing thoughts, social withdrawal, sleep issues, stress, and other symptoms. Moderate to severe symptoms include: suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, completed suicide, increased substance use and abuse, post-traumatic stress responses, self-harming behavior, and substance abuse overdoses. Focus on prevention, if you know someone experiencing an increase in mental health symptoms. Listen with an empathetic ear, show care and compassion, and connect them with professional supports.
The general population is experiencing symptoms of depression, fear, and anxiety based on the global pandemic. Other families are experiencing a deeper trauma losing a loved one to the COVID-19 virus. Due to the health & safety of patients, hospitals have needed to limit visitors in the facility. In some cases family members are not able to be present physically to console loved ones in their final moments. This is very difficult for the patient and their family members, leaving living relatives with complex grief and trauma. Health Care Providers have been going the extra mile to console patients and connect family members through FaceTime to say their final goodbyes.
To continue to curb the spread of the virus, we continue to practice social distancing. Consider the doctors, nurses, and essential workers that are risking their own health every day. These providers are working diligently to save lives, they are also experiencing their own psychological impact from their careers. It is our civic duty to follow the recommendations of the healthcare community. These professionals continue to work each day to combat this global pandemic.
Practice an Attitude of Gratitude, Live Your Life with Intention, and Purpose. This pause in our country has given us time to evaluate what is important. We now may have more free time that can be used to explore healthy self-care strategies. Consider new opportunities where we can make intentional decisions about our future.
We all wish to return to life as we knew it. The psychological impact is strong and impacts people of all ages. Make an effort to reach out to your neighbor. Say hello to someone when you pass them on your bike or smile at a stranger. Even a simple smile may be meaningful to a person that does not have any other social contact. Many people are experiencing loneliness and intense grief and loss.
Focus on mental health wellness, check your psychological pulse, and monitor your symptoms. Develop a routine by getting enough sleep, maintaining healthy nutrition, and carving out time for exercise.
Be creative and increase social contact virtually with family and friends during this period of social isolation. We can reach out to family and friends by phone calls, text messages, or FaceTime. Schedule a virtual trivia night or dinner by using applications like Zoom, Houseparty, or Google Duo.
What will be your new normal? This is a question that will be answered over time and it will be different for each person. During this time, stay strong, reach out to your support system, and monitor your psychological pulse.
There are multiple ways to receive access to mental health and substance abuse counseling. Ask your Human Resources Department if they have an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). These programs offer FREE Telehealth Counseling sessions for employees and their family members. Telehealth Counseling is also offered as a service by most private insurance companies. You can contact a local Licensed Counselor to schedule a Telehealth Counseling appointment.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline offers a 24/7 free and confidential service -1-800-273-8255. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offers a free and confidential helpline for people struggling with addiction or mental health concerns – 800-662-4357. If you require immediate psychiatric intervention, please dial 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
To learn more about the counseling services offered at our office please visit our Telehealth Counseling Page.
We have put together a list of some tips to manage your mental health during COVID 19. Current events can add unnecessary stress to our lives, especially if you are someone that worries about the status of the world in general. News and media meant to provide information can lead to excessive worry and fear. […]
We have put together a list of some tips to manage your mental health during COVID 19. Current events can add unnecessary stress to our lives, especially if you are someone that worries about the status of the world in general. News and media meant to provide information can lead to excessive worry and fear. An abundance of social media posts from friends and family can add to the stress that may overwhelm and impact our emotional health.
If you are starting your day with news that causes fear and stress, spending free time scrolling through social media posts, having minimal social interactions, you may find that your nervous system in a constant state of arousal. This can lead to anxiety and cause disruptions in our sleep patterns. Our immune system can be compromised when our bodies struggle to find ways to wind down. In order to stay healthy and do what you can to take care of your mental health, find ways to calm your system and clear your mind. You might be asking how can we calm down our bodies and anxious thoughts during a time of stress and uncertainty?
To learn more about the Online Telehealth Counseling Program at Ocean Vista Counseling please click here.
To learn more about COVID-19 please visit the Centers for Disease Control by clicking here.