Scapegoating in Families, family counseling, Hoboken NJ therapist, Jersey City NJ therapist, hudson county therapist
Courtney Glashow
Understanding the Psychology of Scapegoating in ...

Scapegoating means that you are blaming a person or group for something bad that has happened or for something that someone else has done. Scapegoating typically occurs to protect the image of a person or family. In a family dynamic, a person may be used as the scapegoat to protect a more favored member in the family. While it is common for one person to be used as the scapegoat, it can happen to multiple people.

Scapegoating can occur in different environments, such as work, but it is most prominent in unhealthy family dynamics. In this case, scapegoating then tends to start in childhood when a child is blamed for all of a family’s dysfunction and problems. A scapegoat bears the burden of taking on the mistakes of a family or team. 

When children are assigned this role at a young age, it can wreak havoc on their mental health. A scapegoated child may not believe that they are inherently good, worthy, or lovable. Instead, they hear insults regularly, experience constant bullying, and even abuse and neglect. This leads to a low self-esteem, decreased self-confidence, and negative self-talk. 

Understanding the Psychology of Scapegoating in Families
love bombing, nyc therapist, relationship counseling
Courtney Glashow
Overcoming the Aftermath of Love Bombing

Love bombing is a specific type of emotional abuse. It is a tactic where someone will “bomb” you with extreme displays of affection and attention. While it may seem like this person has fallen head over heels and madly in love with you, there is a darker truth to the matter. A love bomber is using their grand gestures with the intent of manipulating you. 

Being showered with love and affection can feel good and even positive at the very beginning of the relationship, but it can lead to serious issues down the road, like gaslighting and abuse. Love bombing is a very common tactic used by narcissists and sociopaths in relationships so they can control you.

Overcoming the Aftermath of Love Bombing
toxic relationship, relationship counseling, couples therapy, hoboken therapist, jersey city therapist, marriage counseling, nj therapist, nyc therapist, premarital counseling
Courtney Glashow
How To Tell If You’re In A Toxic Relationship

When you are in a healthy relationship, it naturally functions well. Of course, like any couple, you may have disagreements from time-to-time or there may be some hard times, but you band together no matter what. You are able to make major life decisions together, discuss problems once they occur, and genuinely enjoy spending time with one another.

On the other hand, you have toxic relationships. In a toxic relationship, the ‘norm’ is feeling drained and unhappy after spending time with your partner. This should be a major red flag that some things need to change.

You may still love your partner, but the relationship does not seem enjoyable. Maybe minor issues turn into full-blown arguments or you always seem to provoke one another. It may even get so severe that you dread spending time with your partner instead of getting excited to see them, like you were in the past.

Continue reading this blog to see if your relationship is toxic, and some guidance on how to navigate a toxic relationship.

How To Tell If You’re In A Toxic Relationship
Intergenerational Trauma, trauma counseling, jersey city therapist, hoboken counseling
Courtney Glashow
Disney’s Encanto: How It Got Intergenerational ...

Disney has a way of exploring heavier life topics that can help children and the 2021 film Encanto is no exception. Movies like Inside Out and Soul also assist children in exploring heavier aspects of life, such as emotions, trauma, consciousness, and even death. Encanto joins the long list of children’s movies that have a deeper message.

Disney’s Encanto offers a multigenerational story about a grandmother and her family who have been endowed with magical gifts. The Madrigal family lives in a hidden village in Colombia. While each family member does their best to live up to their reputation and help others in the community, the facade slowly begins to crumble figuratively and literally in the house that all three generations share.
Not only do people love this movie because of its catchy soundtrack, including the famous song “We don’t talk about Bruno”, but people also love it because of its exploration of generational trauma.

Disney’s Encanto: How It Got Intergenerational Trauma Right
control issues, mental health blog, jersey city therapist, hoboken counseling
Courtney Glashow
7 Ways to Let Go of Control Issues

Do you have a hard time going with the flow? Do you have to follow a schedule or routine at all times? Do you try to control other people in your life? If you are dealing with control issues, it is likely that you feel like you must exert power over your life, relationships, and general environment. In some cases, this exertion of power may extend to the life of other people.

Control can simply be defined as exerting influence or power over the environment, actions, and behaviors of yourself or another person. There are many reasons why you may feel like you need to be in control, such as insecurities or fear of the unpredictable. At times, your need for control may become overwhelming and tiring, causing chaos in your career, relationships, and your overall quality of life.

7 Ways to Let Go of Control Issues

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How Do I Get Out Of My Situationship?

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How Do I Get Out Of My Situationship?

In today’s dating culture, the line between "casually seeing someone" and "being in a relationship" can be frustratingly blurry and that gray area is often called a situationship. A situationship is when you are more than friends, less than official, and constantly guessing where you stand. Maybe it started off light and easy, but now you are emotionally invested while still lacking clarity, consistency, or commitment. If you are feeling stuck, confused, or emotionally drained, you are not alone and it may be time to reevaluate what you are really getting out of the connection.

Getting out of a situationship can feel trickier than breaking off a defined relationship. There might not be clear rules, but that does not mean your feelings are not real and it does not mean you have to stay in something that no longer serves you. Whether you are looking for more or finally ready to let go, this blog will help you recognize the signs it is time to move on, navigate the emotional side of detaching, and set clear boundaries for your next chapter. Read our blog “How to Understand and Develop Boundaries in Relationships.”

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Career Counseling for Layoffs

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Career Counseling for Layoffs

Experiencing a layoff can trigger a profound emotional response- grief, anxiety, shame, and a loss of identity are all common reactions. As mental health professionals at Anchor Therapy, we understand that job loss is not just a financial disruption but a psychological upheaval that can deeply impact self-worth and emotional stability. The uncertainty of “what is next” can activate fear responses, especially when work has been tied closely to a sense of purpose or routine.

Career counseling through a mental health lens offers more than just job search strategies- it provides a compassionate space to process the emotional toll of a layoff. By integrating therapeutic techniques with practical career guidance, you can begin to heal, redefine your professional identity, and take steps forward that align with both your values and emotional well-being.

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How To Stop Procrastinating

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How To Stop Procrastinating

Procrastination is a sneaky habit that often disguises itself as harmless delay until deadlines loom, anxiety spikes, and you find yourself scrambling to catch up. Whether it is putting off work tasks, avoiding chores, or sidestepping personal goals, most people know the cycle all too well: a burst of motivation, followed by distraction, guilt, and frustration. But breaking this pattern is not just about “trying harder”- it is about understanding why you procrastinate and building systems that make progress easier and more automatic. Check out our blog “4 Ways To Build A Habit That Sticks.” 

At its core, procrastination is not a sign of laziness. It is often a response to overwhelm, fear of failure, or a lack of clarity. To truly stop procrastinating, you need more than a to-do list; you need strategies that work with your brain, not against it. In this guide, we will explore practical tools and mindset shifts that help you take action even when motivation is low. Because lasting change does not come from willpower alone, it comes from designing your life in a way that makes follow-through feel doable!

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Coping with the Trauma of the July 2025 NYC Mass Shooting

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Coping with the Trauma of the July 2025 NYC Mass Shooting

The mass shooting that struck New York City in July 2025 left more than physical devastation- it tore through the emotional core of the city. As news broke and sirens echoed across boroughs, countless lives were instantly changed. For survivors, witnesses, families, and even those watching from afar, the psychological impact has been profound. In the days and weeks since, many are grappling with feelings of fear, helplessness, grief, and a shaken sense of safety in their everyday lives. Read our blog “How Does Grief Affect Your Identity?”. 

Trauma from events like these does not fade just because the headlines do. It lingers in unexpected moments, such as loud noises, crowded spaces, or the quiet isolation of sleepless nights. Whether you were directly affected or emotionally impacted from a distance, this post explores what trauma can look like, why it is normal to feel disoriented or overwhelmed, and how to begin taking small but meaningful steps toward healing. You are not alone and your pain is valid.

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Top 8 Career Choices for People with ADHD

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Top 8 Career Choices for People with ADHD

Finding the right career can be especially important and empowering for someone with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). While traditional work environments may present challenges like long meetings, rigid routines, or repetitive tasks, individuals with ADHD often thrive in roles that are fast-paced, creative, varied, and allow for a level of independence. Research shows that 15.5 million adults in the United States have ADHD. The key is identifying a job that plays to your strengths, such as high energy, problem-solving skills, creativity, and the ability to think outside the box.

People with ADHD tend to do best in careers that offer stimulation, flexibility, and purpose. Whether it is a high-energy environment like emergency services, a creative role in design or media, or a hands-on job like entrepreneurship or skilled trades, the most fulfilling career will align with your natural interests and abilities. In this blog, we will explore ADHD-friendly career paths, what traits to look for in a job, and how to set yourself up for long-term success without sacrificing your mental well-being.

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Is Doomscrolling Really That Bad?

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Is Doomscrolling Really That Bad?

Doomscrolling, the act of endlessly scrolling through negative or distressing news on social media, has become an all-too-familiar habit in today’s digital age. While it may seem like a harmless way to pass the time, research suggests that this constant exposure to unsettling information can have a real toll on our mental health. The more we consume, the more likely we are to feel anxious, overwhelmed, or even helpless as the barrage of bad news seems relentless and often out of our control. 

Despite its reputation, doomscrolling does not have to be an inherently damaging activity. It all depends on how we engage with the information and how much we let it affect us. With the right mindset and conscious boundaries, we can learn to navigate the digital world without letting it drag us into a spiral of stress and anxiety. Understanding why doomscrolling happens and how to break the cycle can offer a path toward a healthier relationship with the constant flow of news.

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What Does Postpartum Rage Look Like?

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What Does Postpartum Rage Look Like?

When we think about Postpartum Depression (PPD), we often picture sadness, tears, or withdrawal but one of its most overlooked and misunderstood symptoms is postpartum rage. Although postpartum rage is not as well studied as PPD, research believes that postpartum anger is extremely common. This intense, unexpected anger can feel like it comes out of nowhere: snapping at a partner over small things, feeling explosive frustration during late-night feedings, or being filled with a simmering fury that does not seem to go away. For many new mothers, this rage is frightening and shame-inducing, especially when it clashes with the cultural image of the calm, nurturing parent. The truth is, postpartum rage is a very real and valid expression of emotional overload and it deserves to be talked about openly.

Postpartum rage can be isolating because it is rarely discussed, even among those experiencing postpartum depression or anxiety. It is not just “being moody” or “having a bad day”; it can feel like your patience is always on edge, your tolerance is gone, and you are constantly one small moment away from exploding. This can create deep guilt, especially when anger is directed toward a partner or felt around the baby. But rather than a sign of being a “bad parent,” this rage is often a sign that something deeper- like untreated PPD, anxiety, hormonal shifts, or exhaustion- is going unaddressed. Recognizing it is the first step to healing and to realizing you are not alone!

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How Does Grief Affect Your Identity?

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How Does Grief Affect Your Identity?

Grief does not just change how we feel- it can fundamentally alter who we believe we are. When someone close to you dies, especially a partner, parent, child, or lifelong friend, it is not only the relationship you lose, but also the roles you held in connection to them. A spouse becomes a widow, a daughter becomes an only child, a caregiver suddenly has no one to care for. These identity shifts can feel disorienting as if the ground beneath us has shifted and we are left searching for a new version of ourselves in the aftermath.

What makes this identity loss so profound is that it often goes unspoken. We expect grief to come with tears and sadness, but not with a crisis about yourself. Yet, many people find that after loss, they no longer recognize themselves or the life they imagined. The process of grieving, then, becomes not just about mourning the person who is gone, but about reconstructing an identity in a world that looks and feels entirely different than what you are used to.

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10 Ways Nature Can Help Your Mental Health

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10 Ways Nature Can Help Your Mental Health

In our fast-paced, digitally-driven world, it is easy to forget the profound impact nature can have on our well-being. Yet for centuries, people have turned to forests, oceans, and open skies for healing. From reducing stress and anxiety to boosting the immune system and fostering emotional balance, nature offers a restorative power that science is only beginning to fully understand.

The healing power of nature goes far beyond fresh air and scenic views. It involves a deep, often subconscious connection between the human body and the natural world. It is a relationship that promotes physical, mental, and spiritual health. In this blog, we will explore what this healing power truly means, why it works, and how you can tap into it to bring more calm, clarity, and vitality into your daily life.

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Is Retroactive Jealousy Normal?

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Is Retroactive Jealousy Normal?

Retroactive jealousy is the uncomfortable feelings triggered by your partner’s past relationships or experiences. It can be surprisingly common, yet it may leave you feeling isolated, ashamed, or confused. Whether it is fixating on exes, overanalyzing old social media posts, or imagining past romantic encounters, many individuals silently grapple with these intrusive thoughts and wonder if their emotional reactions are healthy or harmful.

In this blog post, we will explore the psychology behind retroactive jealousy, why it happens, and most importantly, whether it is considered "normal." Understanding this phenomenon can help you navigate your emotions with greater clarity and compassion while distinguishing between manageable insecurity and deeper emotional patterns that may need attention.

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Celebrating Pride Month with LGBTQIA+ Affirming Therapy

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Celebrating Pride Month with LGBTQIA+ Affirming Therapy

Pride Month, traditionally celebrated in June, is a time to honor the resilience, diversity, and strength of the LGBTQIA+ community. It is a celebration of identity, love, and visibility but it is also a reminder of the ongoing challenges many in the community still face. For those navigating the complexities of coming out, discrimination, or seeking acceptance, Pride can stir a mix of emotions, from joy and empowerment to grief and vulnerability. That is why mental health support that truly understands and affirms LGBTQIA+ identities is more important than ever.

Affirming therapy goes beyond tolerance- it is about creating a safe, supportive space where individuals are seen, respected, and celebrated for who they are. At Anchor Therapy, our LGBTQIA+ therapists recognize that mental health care must be inclusive, culturally competent, and deeply attuned to the unique experiences of LGBTQIA+ clients. During Pride Month and throughout the year, we are committed to providing therapy that uplifts and empowers- helping individuals not just survive, but thrive in their authentic selves!

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Does Online Therapy Work for Trauma and PTSD?

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Does Online Therapy Work for Trauma and PTSD?

In recent years, online therapy has moved from a niche service to a mainstream mental health resource, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic that  heightened both the demand for therapy and the need for accessible care! But for those dealing with the deep and complex wounds of trauma or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), a common question arises: Can healing really happen through a screen? This blog explores the effectiveness of online psychotherapy for trauma-related conditions, separating fact from myth and offering insights grounded into virtual therapy at Anchor Therapy.


Whether you are considering therapy for the first time or transitioning from in-person sessions, understanding how online formats support trauma recovery is essential. We will look at the science behind virtual trauma treatments, including Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and somatic approaches. After reading this blog, you will feel empowered with the information you need to make the right choice for your mental health journey.

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How Bad Is Weed For Mental Health?

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How Bad Is Weed For Mental Health?

In recent years, cannabis, also known as weed, has moved from the edge of legality and social acceptance to a mainstream topic of conversation with growing support for its medicinal and recreational use. As laws change and public perception shifts, so too does the conversation around its effects, particularly when it comes to mental health. While some users report feelings of relaxation, reduced anxiety, or even enhanced creativity, research paints a more complex picture. Research shows that, in 2023, approximately 61.8 million people used marijuana. Many people may still ask: how bad is weed for mental health, really?

For many people, occasional or moderate cannabis use may not cause significant psychological harm. However, studies increasingly suggest that frequent or high-potency use, especially among young people or those with a family history of mental illness, can be linked to heightened risks of anxiety, depression, and even psychosis. As cannabis becomes more potent and accessible, it is important to examine the real risks and eliminate the myths. In this blog, we will break down what the science says, who may be most at risk, and how cannabis use might interact with mental health conditions.

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5 Ways to Overcome Climate Change Anxiety

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5 Ways to Overcome Climate Change Anxiety

Climate change anxiety, often referred to as "eco-anxiety," is becoming more prevalent as the effects of global warming continue to intensify. Many people, especially younger generations, feel overwhelmed by the growing threats of rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and environmental degradation. This sense of helplessness can lead to stress, fear, and uncertainty about the future. While it is natural to be concerned about the state of the planet, it is crucial to find ways to manage these feelings in order to stay motivated and proactive in addressing the climate crisis.


In this blog, we will explore five effective ways to overcome climate change anxiety and regain a sense of agency. By shifting focus from feelings of helplessness to actions we can take, we can foster hope and resilience in the face of environmental challenges. Whether it is through personal lifestyle changes, connecting with others, or engaging in advocacy, these strategies will help you manage anxiety and feel empowered to contribute to positive change. Understanding that small actions matter and that collective efforts can lead to meaningful impact is key to navigating eco-anxiety in a healthy, productive way!

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What Is A Situationship?

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What Is A Situationship?

In today's dating landscape, the lines between friendship and romance are often blurred, giving rise to a relationship status that is confusing and increasingly common: the situationship. Unlike traditional relationships, situationships lack clear labels, boundaries, or expectations yet they often involve emotional intimacy, physical connection, and the routines of a romantic partnership. You might find yourself texting every day, going on dates, and even meeting each other's friends without ever having “the talk” or being exclusive. And while that ambiguity might seem freeing at first, it can quickly become a source of stress and uncertainty depending on your personality and relationship goals. 

This blog explores the emotional gray area of situationships- why people enter them, what they offer, and when they might start doing more harm than good. Whether you are currently in one, just got out of one and healing, or are trying to make sense of someone else’s, this space is for unpacking the messy middle ground of modern relationships. Because sometimes, the most complicated relationships are the ones that were never officially defined!

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Career Counseling for Reentering the Workforce

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Career Counseling for Reentering the Workforce

Taking the step to reenter the workforce after a career break- whether due to parenting, caregiving, illness, or other life transitions- can feel both exciting and overwhelming. Many individuals face questions about how their skills measure up in today’s job market, how to explain gaps in their resumes, and whether they are truly ready- emotionally and professionally- to dive back in. That is where career counseling, especially when rooted in mental health support, plays a powerful role. It is not just about polishing a resume; it is about rebuilding confidence, clarifying goals, and creating a plan that honors both your professional aspirations and personal well-being. For more information, check out our blog “The Ultimate Guide to Building Self-Confidence.” 

At Anchor Therapy, our career counselors understand that returning to work is not just a career decision- it is a life transition. Research indicates that 74% of individuals who take a career break end up rejoining the workforce. Our career counseling services are designed to help you navigate this journey with clarity and resilience. Whether you are exploring a new path or returning to a familiar field, we provide guidance that integrates practical job-search strategies with emotional support, helping you reenter the workforce on your own terms.

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How Does Social Media Affect Depression?

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How Does Social Media Affect Depression?

In today’s hyperconnected world, social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook have become integral parts of our daily routines. They offer a constant stream of content, instant communication, and the ability to stay in touch with friends, trends, and news from around the world. However, as our screen time increases, so do concerns about its impact on mental health, particularly depression. More people, especially teens and young adults, report feelings of sadness, loneliness, and anxiety after prolonged exposure to curated online lives and unrealistic standards of success or beauty.

While social media can foster a sense of community, validation, and self-expression, it can also fuel harmful cycles of comparison, cyberbullying, and information overload. The contrast between someone’s highlight reel and one’s real life can leave users feeling inadequate or isolated. Researchers and mental health professionals are actively studying the relationship between social media use and depressive symptoms, raising important questions about how these platforms might influence our emotional well-being in both positive and negative ways.

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What Does OCD At Work Look Like?

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What Does OCD At Work Look Like?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is often misunderstood as simply a quirk or a preference for neatness but, in a workplace setting, it can show up in ways that are much more complex and sometimes invisible to others. While movies might portray OCD as excessive hand-washing or color-coded organization, the reality for many professionals is an ongoing struggle with intrusive thoughts, perfectionism, and repetitive behaviors that can deeply impact their work performance, focus, and even relationships with colleagues.


In the workplace, OCD might manifest as double- or triple-checking emails before sending, re-reading documents endlessly out of fear of making a mistake, or feeling the urge to meet self-imposed, unattainably high standards. It could also mean avoiding certain tasks altogether due to fear of contamination, failure, or making a wrong decision. Understanding what OCD looks like in a professional environment is key not only for those experiencing it but also for managers and coworkers who want to foster a more inclusive and supportive workplace culture.

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