The Nest Podcast and Blog

Listen up.

You can listen to my podcast on Spotify where I talk with special guests who are local therapists about creating the life, love, and relationships you want.

New episodes or blogs posted bi-weekly.

Logo for 'The Nest' featuring a nest with leaves and a bird, and the tagline 'creating the life, love, and relationships you want' on a blue background.
SZN. 4 Ep. 5/ Holiday Anxiety and Family Triggers
Alexandria Gohla Alexandria Gohla

SZN. 4 Ep. 5/ Holiday Anxiety and Family Triggers

The holidays can heighten stress and anxiety, especially around family gatherings. Alexandria Gohla, MSW, LCSW, Ed.S, explains that unresolved family dynamics, old roles, and past trauma often trigger intense emotional responses during the season. Common stressors include conflict, financial pressure, and the expectation of “perfect” celebrations. Effective strategies for managing holiday anxiety include setting realistic expectations, establishing boundaries, using somatic coping tools, limiting alcohol and caffeine, focusing on small moments of joy, and creating an exit plan. By preparing mentally and practicing self-compassion, you can navigate family gatherings with greater calm and resilience.

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SZN. 4 Ep. 3/ Coping with Divorce During the Most Wonderful Time of the Year
Alexandria Gohla Alexandria Gohla

SZN. 4 Ep. 3/ Coping with Divorce During the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

The holiday season can be especially challenging for those navigating divorce or separation. Kelli Majka, LPC, outlines therapist-backed strategies to manage stress and create meaningful experiences during this time. Key approaches include giving yourself grace, creating new traditions, setting healthy boundaries, planning ahead for co-parenting, leaning on your support system, practicing self-care, and focusing on “micro-joys.” Additional tools like intentional journaling, scheduling buffer time, and compassionate self-talk help process emotions and maintain emotional balance. By embracing both the challenges and possibilities of this season, individuals can find moments of peace, joy, and personal growth even during significant life transitions.

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