Brain Rot” isn’t just a meme—it’s a real mental health concern among Gen Z. As therapists at Meridian Counseling, we see firsthand how constant screen use rewires attention, mood, and motivation. Learn how to reverse the damage and support your child with empathy, insight, and action

Pregnancy and motherhood don’t just change your body—they transform your identity. This in-depth guide explores the emotional, mental, and psychological shifts many women experience during this time, offering professional insight and practical ways to cope and thrive through the transition.

The Mormon community is experiencing a cultural shift in how mental health is understood and addressed. Once primarily relying on church leaders for counseling, many members now turn to licensed therapists outside the LDS Church. This shift reflects a growing acceptance of professional mental health care, a desire for specialized treatment, and the recognition that faith and therapy can coexist in powerful, life-changing ways

Beauty is often praised as a gift, but for many women, it’s a double-edged sword. While society rewards attractiveness with attention and opportunities, it also subjects women to jealousy, exclusion, and bullying—especially from other women. This article dives deep into how beauty bias shapes relationships and friendships, revealing its often hidden emotional toll.

Friendship breakups can leave behind a deep ache that’s hard to explain. Whether sudden or long overdue, these endings can feel as devastating as romantic separations—yet they’re often overlooked. In this post, we explore the emotional toll of friendship breakups, why they hurt so much, and how to begin the healing process with compassion and clarity.

In therapy, safety and trust are paramount. When therapists inject political agendas into the sessions, they risk crossing ethical boundaries, eroding trust, and disrupting therapeutic progress. This post examines why leaving politics out of therapy is essential, how it can harm therapy, what clients can do if it happens—and how ethical guidelines support freedom from ideology in the therapeutic space.

As AI-powered tools like mental health chatbots and language models become more popular, many are asking: can these technologies really help people struggling with depression? In this blog, we explore the promise, risks, and future of using AI for mental health support.

Music is more than entertainment—it's a powerful therapeutic tool. From easing anxiety to supporting depression recovery, the impact of music on mental health is backed by science. This article explores how music influences the brain, improves emotional resilience, and supports overall well-being, while offering tips to incorporate sound healing into your daily life.

Talking politics at the dinner table doesn’t have to end in slammed doors or silent treatments. Here’s how to navigate tough political conversations with family without damaging your relationship.

Since the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, antisemitism has surged across many sectors—including mental health. Jewish therapists are being silenced or fired, while clients face clinical environments that invalidate their pain. This article explores the trauma, historical context, ethical issues, and clear solutions to restore safety and equity in care

Have you ever been told you're “too sensitive” or “too emotional”? If so, you’re not alone. Many people—especially those navigating depression, trauma, or leadership roles—internalize the message that they are “too much.” This blog explores how therapy helps reframe emotional intensity as a strength, not a flaw, and provides a path toward healing, validation, and emotional freedom.

Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all. While one-on-one counseling has its place, there are powerful reasons why group therapy might be a better fit—especially when connection, shared experience, and interpersonal growth are what you need most.

Trauma can cast a long shadow on our ability to connect—emotionally, physically, and relationally. Whether it stems from childhood neglect, abuse, betrayal, or PTSD, unresolved trauma often disrupts intimacy and trust. In this blog, we explore how trauma impacts your connection with others and how trauma-informed therapy offers a path back to closeness, vulnerability, and authentic love.

Pregnancy is often portrayed as a joyful, glowing time—but for many, it can also stir up deep insecurities about body image. Here's why this happens and how to care for your mental and emotional well-being during the journey.

Ever wondered why people blindly support a narcissist, even when they’re clearly bullying others? These enablers, known as “flying monkeys,” play a shocking role in emotional abuse. Discover the dark psychology behind their loyalty, how narcissists manipulate social groups, and what you can do to protect yourself from this toxic dynamic.

Discover how rescuing or fostering a dog can improve your mental health—boosting mood, building resilience, and teaching powerful life lessons about love, responsibility, and connection.

Accepting help when you're battling depression can feel like an impossible task—even when you desperately want relief. From internalized shame and negative self-talk to deep-seated fears of vulnerability or rejection, there are many reasons why support feels so hard to receive. In this post, we explore the psychological, emotional, and social dynamics that block connection during depression and offer compassionate strategies for opening up to help—one small step at a time.

Struggling to form meaningful friendships in Los Angeles? You’re not alone. This blog explores why LA culture can feel isolating, how ego and industry-driven motivations play a role, and practical steps you can take to build a supportive community and choose strong, reliable friendships.

In a world that celebrates independence and emotional control, vulnerability is often misunderstood. Yet, it’s one of the most powerful tools for building lasting emotional intimacy in a relationship. Whether you’re navigating the pressures of leadership, struggling with depression, or simply longing for deeper connection, allowing yourself to be emotionally open with your partner can transform how you relate and heal. This article explores how vulnerability strengthens trust, fosters authentic communication, and supports mental wellness—especially for high-achievers and those feeling isolated.

Racial bias in the medical system doesn’t just affect physical health—it deeply impacts how mental health is diagnosed, treated, and experienced, especially for BIPOC professionals. From misdiagnosis and inadequate care to cultural misunderstandings and systemic barriers, many individuals are left feeling unseen and unsupported. This article explores how racial bias shapes access to care, worsens symptoms of depression and burnout, and what changes are needed to build a truly equitable mental health system.