donna's blog

Perfectionism often fuels decision paralysis because it quietly raises the “starting bar” until it feels like you’re required to get everything right before you’re allowed to begin. When every choice has to be the best choice, your brain treats ordinary uncertainty as danger. You end up over-researching, rewriting, and second-guessing, not because you’re lazy or unmotivated, but because launching something imperfect can feel like a verdict on your competence. In that mindset,

Understanding the Depth of Grief What can you possibly learn in school to prepare you for this level of trauma, shock, sadness, and grief? In my suicide bereavement group, the atmosphere is raw. Participants allow for individual and collective pain points, softening and comforting each other. They engage as if it were a group no one would ever want to join. Because, in truth, it is. I bear witness, gently guiding and holding space for them. I manage the monopolizers and the r

Loss of Control What Falling Dreams Typically Represent Falling in a dream often reflects feelings of losing control or insecurity. This sensation can relate to various areas of life, such as relationships, work, or personal goals. The sudden drop can symbolize a fear of failure or a lack of stability. Loss of control: Many people experience falling dreams during times of stress or uncertainty. The dream mirrors the sensation of being overwhelmed or unable to manage a situati

A 27-year-old female came to my office in 2025 wearing a mask. I thought, "COVID is kind of over, so why would a beautiful young adult be afraid now?" During the in-person intake session, she explained that she had been hiding her whole life. She appeared shut down and said she couldn't talk about most things—she would be too worried about me! I then shared how therapy works. Hesitant, she said she needed time. As an experienced clinician, I understood what this meant: her tr