Author: Dr. Samantha Rodman

Clinical Psychologist

5 Reminders to Keep You Grounded During Dating Anxiety

Author By Dr. Samantha Rodman, Clinical Psychologist
Posted:
Woman Jumping with Umbrella

Dating anxiety affects most single people to some degree. Here are some common anxious questions that run through people’s minds during the dating process. See how many apply to you:

  • Will others find me attractive enough?
  • Will I be interesting/funny on this date?
  • Will I ever find someone I really love?
  • Is the person I’m dating the right one for me?
  • If I end this relationship, will I find someone else?

This anxiety can sabotage your ability to connect confidently and authentically with other people. Here’s how to stay grounded and actually enjoy the dating process. Continue reading 5 Reminders to Keep You Grounded During Dating Anxiety

Is the Idea of a Soulmate Bad for Your Relationship and Mental Health?

Author By Dr. Samantha Rodman, Clinical Psychologist
Posted:
Couple riding bikes at sunset

When you’re in a new relationship, your hormones are racing and the newness of your love can be intoxicating. It can be tempting to feel like you have met your “soulmate,” the one person who is made for you and only you.

Even though this idea is very appealing and romantic, there are also down sides to thinking this way. The soul mate paradigm can raise your expectations to an impossible level, ironically making you feel less satisfied with your partner overall. Continue reading Is the Idea of a Soulmate Bad for Your Relationship and Mental Health?

7 Ways Fear Makes You Settle for Less in Your Relationship

Author By Dr. Samantha Rodman, Clinical Psychologist
Posted:
Concerned woman

Many clients come in to therapy telling me that they don’t feel happy or fulfilled in their relationship. Instead of being excited to be with their partner, they feel stuck, bored, and trapped. When we discuss the idea of leaving, though, many of these clients feel anxious or outright terrified at the prospect.

Why do people settle for less in relationships? Why do they end up stuck in loveless or conflicted relationships, feeling like there’s no way out? And how can you know if you’re settling for less in your own relationship? Continue reading 7 Ways Fear Makes You Settle for Less in Your Relationship

Your Partner is Not Your Therapist

Author By Dr. Samantha Rodman, Clinical Psychologist
Posted:
Woman sitting next to sculpture on the phone

When you are feeling down, it is natural to want to turn to your partner for love and support. Our partner is the person who often knows us best, and who can be counted on to take our side and have our back. This can make us feel very loved and taken care of, but it can also mean that, under times of stress, we rely on our partner too excessively.

Why is this unhealthy for a relationship and how can you tell if you are treating your partner like your therapist? Continue reading Your Partner is Not Your Therapist

4 Strategies for Dealing With The Mental Health Implications Of Chronic Illness

Author By Dr. Samantha Rodman, Clinical Psychologist
Posted:
Hospital bedroom

Chronic illness can take many forms. Common types that I see in my practice include migraines, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), fibromyalgia, and chronic back pain, all of which are associated with depression.

No matter what type of chronic illness you have, you are likely all too aware of the profound effects it can have on your mental health and day-to-day functioning. Although chronic illness is a massive challenge to your psychological functioning, there are some ways that you can moderate its impact on your perspective and emotional wellbeing Continue reading 4 Strategies for Dealing With The Mental Health Implications Of Chronic Illness

How Financial Issues Impact Your Mental Health

Author By Dr. Samantha Rodman, Clinical Psychologist
Posted:
Woman with coins over his eyes

It is fashionable to believe that finances shouldn’t have much of an impact on your mental health. According to the media, mental health should be equivalent across various socioeconomic classes. However, when you are struggling financially, it can have a very real effect on your mental and emotional functioning. Continue reading How Financial Issues Impact Your Mental Health

Can Blaming Others Ever Be Good For Your Mental Health?

Author By Dr. Samantha Rodman, Clinical Psychologist
Posted:
Man pointing

Many people tend to blame others for their issues. Prime candidates are parents, partners, friends, bosses, and kids. Perhaps these examples sound familiar?

  • “The reason I don’t have a social life is that my husband is an introvert. If he were more outgoing, I could really get out more.”
  • “My kids are so difficult, it is impossible to have people over the house. They just run wild and I wouldn’t be able to enjoy myself.”
  • “If my dad hadn’t cheated on my mom, I would have a healthy view of relationships now and I wouldn’t keep going for these jerks that treat me poorly.”

It is very tempting to blame others for things going wrong in your life, even personal habits you dislike or your own dysfunctional thought patterns. Continue reading Can Blaming Others Ever Be Good For Your Mental Health?

5 Things You Didn’t Know About Dating with Depression

Author By Dr. Samantha Rodman, Clinical Psychologist
Posted:
Couple holding each other in the dark

If you struggle with depression, it can seem impossible to start or maintain relationships. But don’t let your depressed brain convince you that you can’t date!

In fact, dating and being in a loving relationship is a wonderful way to make you feel like depression isn’t taking over your life. You feel you’re alive again..

Before you rush into dating though, keep in mind some of the ways that dating with depression can be very different than dating without. Continue reading 5 Things You Didn’t Know About Dating with Depression