Alex Klein Therapy

Therapy, Crisis Consultation & Collaborative Care - Madison, CT

Therapy

Manage Winter SADness

With colder weather and shorter days, winter is officially here. It’s not unusual for people to experience seasonal mood changes at this time of year. Reduced energy, changes in eating habits, and feeling a bit down can all be signs of the “winter blues.” Instead of jumping out of bed ready to greet the day, many people want to crawl under the covers and wait for spring. However, should these symptoms present themselves in a more serious manner, or should depression set in, it could be a sign of Seasonal Affective Disorder (aka, apt acronym: SAD).

Seasonal Affective Disorder can impact a person’s health, productivity and relationships. While cold weather may lead to less activity, the seasonal pattern most directly linked with this disorder is diminishing daylight. This decrease in sunlight may disrupt your body’s internal clock, reduce levels of feel-good chemicals in the brain (such as serotonin and melatonin), and disrupt sleep patterns that affect your daily mood.  [Read more…] about Manage Winter SADness

Turning Lessons from 2017 into Resolutions for 2018

Whenever the winter holidays approach, conversation inevitably turns to New Year’s Resolutions. Some take this annual exercise more seriously than others. But taking the time to consider potential resolutions can be a therapeutic opportunity to reflect on 2017 while also effectively planning for the year ahead.

The most common New Year’s resolutions are generally broad goals; committing to a healthier diet, saving money, or getting in better shape. These are all important pursuits! But goals aren’t always the same as resolutions. A resolution is a determined action that provides solutions for problems. A resolution is a commitment to change. And when they work, resolutions are a chance for each of us to grow as people.

There is a reason that making annual resolutions coincides with the new year. Changing your calendar may just be a symbolic metaphor for time passing, but I’d urge you to add this exercise to your therapeutic toolbox. Look back at 2017 like its a calendar. Flip through the pages and let yourself see what you remember the most. Reflect on what felt important while it was happening and consider what still stands out today. Let this newfound perspective of the past year be your guide in planning for the year ahead. [Read more…] about Turning Lessons from 2017 into Resolutions for 2018

Where Adversity Equals Opportunity

My name is Alex Klein, and as a licensed clinical therapist, I thank you for taking the time to read and explore this blog post. The purpose of this website is to be a free resource for current and prospective clients while also serving as an aide for families and friends searching for help on behalf of loved ones.

Whether its building a positive rapport with individuals or group-thinking with families, my practice is a place that provides help to those in any degree of need. With more than twenty years of professional experience, I’ve had the opportunity to encounter any and every type of issue. From anxiety to intense trauma, my goal as a therapist is to help people find strength and direction in moments of weakness and crisis.

[Read more…] about Where Adversity Equals Opportunity