Author of the Month Joshua Bennett-Johnson writes that real therapy is not always soft, calm, or comfortable. Sometimes the deepest breakthroughs happen when things become emotionally difficult.

A vivid dream of sleeping children becomes the doorway into a larger reflection on organismic intelligence: the body’s built-in capacity to move toward regulation, safety, and wholeness. Kristin Onderdonk explores what the body already knows, why modern life teaches us to override those signals, and how pausing long enough to listen can reconnect us with a quieter, older form of wisdom.

Real victimization exists, and Diane Russell Chrestman does not minimize that truth. But in this candid reflection, she explores what can happen when suffering becomes an identity. Using lived experience, ACE awareness, and Internal Family Systems language, she examines the victim role as a protector, the relief it can offer, and the courage it takes to build a life beyond the worst things that happened to us.

“Sticks and stones” was never the whole truth. In this Author of the Month reflection, Joshua Bennett-Johnson looks back on childhood bullying from both sides: the child who used cruelty to feel bigger, and the child who later felt the sting of public humiliation. The result is a candid, human essay about shame, empathy, repair, and why words can leave wounds long after the moment passes.

AI chatbots are becoming part of everyday life, including moments of stress, loneliness, and emotional uncertainty. Rachel Winston explains why these tools can feel appealing—available 24/7, responsive, and nonjudgmental—while also raising serious concerns for people already facing mental health challenges. This piece helps users and families understand the risks and think more carefully about safer, more informed use.

What happens when emotional support is always available—but isn’t human? Author Caz Burrell explores why millions are turning to AI for therapy-like support—and the real risks behind that shift.

Bullying doesn’t end when it ends—it follows you even into adulthood. Author and therapist Lisa Cavallaro writes about how bullying can become deeply tied to mental health.

Author and counselor Tim Lineaweaver explores the conflict he felt between opening up about his trauma and addiction and remaining anonymous.

Recovery coach Belinda Morey states bullying doesn’t stay in childhood—it follows us. She shares her own lived experience and offers ways to help and heal.

Difficult people do not cause relapse - but they can create the emotional state that makes escape feel tempting. John Makohen, CASC, RCP, gives readers a clear, practical plan to stay calm, set boundaries, and protect recovery in real-world situations.

Trauma doesn’t stay in the past—it resurfaces in ways that disrupt daily life. Bill Prasad, LPC, explains ways trauma-informed therapy methods can help.

Heather Proctor explains why trauma-informed care starts with asking “What happened to you?” instead of “What’s wrong with you?” She highlights the principles of safety, trust, collaboration, empowerment, and avoiding re-traumatization.