Author Archives: Alisa Hafkin

Individual Goals, Relationship Goals, and Shared Meaning

In my years of experience counseling couples to strengthen healthy relationships and heal troubled ones, I have found that it is very helpful for couples to have both individual and relationship goals. But an even deeper need is for a … Continue reading

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Using Humor to Manage Your Stress and Anxiety

While we should not “laugh off” serious issues, light-heartedness and laughter have proven physical and psychological benefits that improve our physical and emotional health. In the midst of anxiety, stress, depression, or illness, it can be difficult to maintain a … Continue reading

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Individual Therapy or Couples Counseling?

Long-term marriage takes work. Life is in constant flux, and various influences can impact the condition of your marriage. Ongoing efforts must be made to keep a marriage or any long-term relationship healthy. If your marriage has begun to show … Continue reading

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Criticized in the Workplace

There can be many reasons and causes for receiving criticism in your workplace. Let’s make a distinction here between criticism that comes from a bully or a toxic work environment and work-related criticism from a boss or co-worker who perceives … Continue reading

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What Happens in Your First Therapy Session and How to Prepare

It is perfectly natural to be nervous for your first therapy session. First, know that I applaud your effort in making the appointment. That is a great first step!   Scheduling that first therapy session can be difficult, even frightening. But … Continue reading

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Boundaries Around Election Discussions in NYC

Politics can be an emotionally charged subject for many people, and election season can be especially stressful. If you find that the people around you talk about politics in a manner that makes you uncomfortable, you have every right to … Continue reading

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Election Anxiety in NYC

Every election season is fraught with a degree of tension and stress, but recent and upcoming elections have become increasingly more emotionally charged on both sides of the aisle. No matter where you sit on the issues, you probably feel … Continue reading

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 Dealing with Adult ADHD

Adult ADHD or ADD can be difficult to deal with. Modern life, especially here in New York City, can be highly stimulating, creating stress, distraction, anxiety, and disorganization in some people. But is it actually ADHD? And if so, what … Continue reading

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Mean-Spirited Co-Workers? Here is What to Do

When you find yourself on the defensive at work because of the behavior of a co-worker, try not to respond in kind or make major decisions in the moment. Take some time to evaluate before deciding your strategy for dealing … Continue reading

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Your Mental Health Is Critical

In our modern world, mental health seems to be on the decline–partly due to our fast-paced lifestyle, partly to the intrusion of technology in our lives, and perhaps partly due to the food we eat and the pollutants in our … Continue reading

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