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The “Popcorn Illusion” | How Your Smartphone Can Leave You Feeling Empty
Mental Health Sam McCann, MA, LMHC Mental Health Sam McCann, MA, LMHC

The “Popcorn Illusion” | How Your Smartphone Can Leave You Feeling Empty

Ever mindlessly scroll through your phone, thinking you're relaxing or connecting, only to feel… kinda empty afterward? Yeah, me too. It's like eating a giant bowl of popcorn – lots of action, but somehow you're still hungry for something real. Let's dive into why our beloved smartphones can sometimes feel like the illusion of connection and rest, and what we can do about it.

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Top-Down vs. Bottom-Up Thinking: Why Autistic Brains Process the World Differently
Autism, ADHD Sam McCann, MA, LMHC Autism, ADHD Sam McCann, MA, LMHC

Top-Down vs. Bottom-Up Thinking: Why Autistic Brains Process the World Differently

Ever feel like your brain takes the scenic route while others stick to the freeway? That’s the essence of bottom-up thinking, a style common in Autistic and ADHD brains. Unlike top-down thinkers, who rely on past experiences to quickly interpret new information, bottom-up thinkers process raw details first—building understanding from the ground up. This approach, often linked with associative thinking, allows for deep pattern recognition, creativity, and nuance but can also impact how we navigate bias and communication. Understanding these differences can help us work with our brains instead of against them—leading to more clarity, connection, and self-acceptance.

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Better Late Than Never: Embracing Neurodivergence as an Adult
Neurodiversity Green Coast Counseling Neurodiversity Green Coast Counseling

Better Late Than Never: Embracing Neurodivergence as an Adult

Embarking on the journey of unmasking as an adult with late-diagnosed autism or adhd is a profound experience filled with both joys and challenges. The process of self-discovery unveils layers of your identity, offering new insights and understanding into your neurodivergent condition. Embracing this path involves navigating a spectrum of emotions and revelations, each step bringing you closer to a more authentic self. In this narrative piece, we will celebrate the victories, acknowledge the hurdles, and embrace the unique journey of self-discovery as a neurodivergent adult, fostering a warm and empathetic environment for those on a similar path of understanding and acceptance.

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The Transformative Power of Storytelling in Therapy
narrative therapy, personal growth Green Coast Counseling narrative therapy, personal growth Green Coast Counseling

The Transformative Power of Storytelling in Therapy

Stories weave the fabric of human connection, transcending cultural and temporal boundaries. They have the capacity to captivate our imagination, evoke emotions, and serve as vessels for sharing experiences. In the therapeutic landscape, storytelling has emerged as a potent catalyst for emotional healing and personal evolution. Whether through verbal narratives, written accounts, or visual expressions, individuals engage in a process of self-discovery and catharsis as they articulate and explore their unique stories.

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