Article Archives
Browse the ideas, lessons, and reflections we’ve shared.
A Holiday Visit Plan: Three Decisions Before You Answer
Plan a realistic holiday visit by choosing your availability, the task you can offer, and time between commitments. Practical examples for adults.
The Reply She Changed: A Boundary Story
A fictional boundary story about pausing before a yes, responding to pushback, and leaving room for what you can manage.
Caregiver Support Starts With One Task
November is National Family Caregivers Month. When someone says, “Let me know if you need anything,” it can be hard to know where to start. Try asking for one specific task: “Could you pick up groceries on Thursday? I can send a list.” Supporting a caregiver? Offer something concrete, and leave room for a different…
Know What to Do but Can’t Start? Understanding Executive Dysfunction
You know what needs to happen, but getting started can feel like hitting an invisible wall. Try one small first step and explore practical executive-function tools.
Even Your Boundaries Can Wear a Costume
A Halloween reflection on the masks we wear, authenticity, and healthy boundaries.
The Email That Took Over Her Evening
A fictional story for general education. Maya is an illustrative character, not a real client. One email took over Maya’s evening. Her manager wrote, “Can we talk tomorrow?” Her mind filled in the rest: “I’m getting fired.” Watch the 49-second story on the website if the player is not available in your email. Separate the…
Before You Say Yes: A Small Boundary Practice
Before your next yes, give yourself a moment. This 28-second video offers one phrase you can practice with a low-stakes request. Watch the 28-second video on the website if the player is not available in your email. Try this phrase “Let me check what I can take on. I’ll get back to you.” Then ask…
What Kind of Help Would Actually Help? Make the Request Specific
Help is not a single tool. Asking for advice when you need somebody to carry a task can feel like receiving directions while your hands are full. A useful first question is not simply whether you need support, but what job that support needs to do.
Before You Refresh Again: Give Your News Checking a Job
A phone can become a waiting room with no appointment time. You enter to check one update and remain because the next update might finally make things feel settled. Being informed matters. So does noticing what the checking is asking you to give up.
By Ray Navarro MS
When Your To-Do List Is Bigger Than Your Capacity
Try one realistic adjustment to your daily load, then explore a 12-page fillable capacity check-in and seven-day tracker for adults.
Which Mental Health Mini-Course Would You Choose?
Help choose a future $29 Navarro Therapy mini-course: boundaries, everyday anxiety, or overthinking. Quick, no-payment survey.
Depression Doesn’t Always Look Like Sadness: Notice Daily Functioning
When people picture depression, they may imagine someone who looks visibly sad. Sadness can be part of depression, but it is not the only change worth noticing. Depression can also affect sleep, energy, concentration, interest, decision-making, and the ability to manage everyday responsibilities. Think of daily functioning as a dashboard rather than a single warning…
