As a social worker, I take my vow to protect the most vulnerable very seriously. Here is some data to be concerned about: Immigrant enforcement concerns are already in Michigan.  The state is home to the largest immigration detention center in the Midwest, located in Baldwin.  Community members in the southeast part of the state have been demanding transparency and protesting the more than 165 charter flights operated by private Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) contr

If the news is overwhelming you, you are not alone! I am not going to lie to you and deceive you with toxic positivity; there is a lot to be shocked and concerned about. I am also not going to tell you to stop looking at it entirely, but try to do so at times. You can do the following afterwards. First, pause for a moment and check in with your heart. Try placing your hand over your heart if that feels ok, if you are not in a place of comfort for you, can you recall one? Perh

Do you find yourself comparing yourself to others and your accomplishments this time of year? You may be seeing on social media these fantastic lists of what they have achieved. While I will never discourage someone from celebrating, I do discourage clients to not compare themselves with others. Instead, I encourage daily practices of recognizing your efforts, big and small. If they happen to add up that list you wish to share, great. If not, please celebrate in your own way.

I am lucky that I look forward to the holidays at this stage in my life. I did not always feel this way. The pressure of so many celebrations, gift buying, and preparing, not to mention interpersonal challenges, had me feeling frantic, overwhelmed, and dreading it at times. But I learned how to take care of myself better, set limits, and focus on what matters to me. Now holidays bring joy, time to connect, both with loved ones and myself. Here are some tips I suggest. Pick on