The holidays often stir up warm memories, cheerful music, and time with loved ones. But for many of us, this time of year can bring up stress and worry, too. Expectations feel higher, calendars fill up fast, and emotions tend to run a little stronger. It is not unusual to feel pulled in too many directions all at once.

For those who find strength in faith, spiritual practices can offer a calming anchor when the rest of life feels too loud. Whether you are feeling anxious about family gatherings, travel plans, or just trying to keep up with everything, Christian counseling in San Antonio reminds us how helpful it can be to lean on faith-based care. When the holidays start to feel overwhelming, we do not have to carry those feelings alone. We can take steps to care for our minds through small, grounding habits rooted in God’s peace.

Recognizing Holiday Anxiety When It Shows Up

Holiday anxiety does not always look one specific way. Sometimes it is waking up tired after a full night’s sleep because your mind would not slow down. Other times, it is snapping at someone over a little thing or feeling guilty for not feeling extra cheerful.

All the planning, parties, shopping, and traveling can build up quietly. Even joyful traditions might start to feel like checklists. If you are noticing:

• Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
• Feeling easily irritated or overwhelmed
• Wanting to be alone more than usual
• Feeling sad about plans that did not go as expected

These may be signals that anxiety is showing up in your life. And that is okay. Just because this season is known for joy does not mean every day has to feel perfect. Recognizing what is going on is the first step.

Making Space for Quiet Moments with God

With so many people, plans, and distractions during the holidays, stillness can feel out of reach. But peace starts small. Making space for just a few quiet minutes each day can help soften anxious thoughts.

This could look like:

• Setting aside five minutes in the morning or before bed to pray
• Keeping a short list of Bible verses nearby that remind you of peace
• Writing a few sentences in a journal as a way to talk with God

There is no right way to do this. Some people find comfort in reading Scripture out loud. Others may prefer writing prayers. The goal is not to be perfect at it, but simply to stay connected with God in the middle of the noise.

Letting Go of Holiday Perfection

It is easy to scroll through photos or watch commercials and feel like your holidays should look a certain way. Shiny decorations, beautifully wrapped gifts, and smiling faces can create pressure to meet a picture we did not choose.

But simplicity has spiritual worth. Letting go of trying to “do it all” makes space for moments that matter.

That might mean:

• Skipping traditions that no longer bring peace
• Saying no to one event so you can catch your breath
• Choosing gifts with care, not out of pressure

Faith reminds us that the heart of the season is not found in appearances but in love, kindness, and togetherness, however that looks for us this year.

Finding Peace Through Community and Worship

Feeling anxious can often leave us feeling isolated, especially when it seems like everyone else is full of cheer. But we are not meant to go through hard times alone.

Being part of community and worship can bring comfort and encouragement. Attending a church service (either in person or online), joining a seasonal Bible study, or sitting with people who share your faith can bring a sense of togetherness that helps ease worry.

When you are struggling, try:

• Talking with a trusted friend from your church or prayer group
• Joining others in prayer, even if it is just a few minutes
• Getting involved in a small gathering that brings joy without strain

Sometimes, just being surrounded by others who care, who will pray with you or sit with you, is enough to help lighten a heavy season.

Inviting God Into Your Emotional Healing

Anxiety does not end when the decorations come down. For some, the holidays stir up deeper sadness or old hurts. Faith gives us a way to face those feelings without shame. It reminds us we are seen and loved.

Letting God into those deeper places of heartache takes courage, but it can also bring lasting peace. The holidays can be a helpful time to reflect, notice what is rising inside, and begin to gently care for it.

If it continues to feel hard, it may be time to speak with someone who understands both emotional needs and spiritual values. A Christian counselor can help connect your faith with your healing, especially when anxiety feels like too much to manage alone.

Compassionate Support That Fits Your Life

While many around us are smiling and celebrating, it is okay if this season feels heavy. We all have different stories, and those stories matter. At La Luz Counseling in San Antonio, you can access both virtual and in-person therapy sessions, making support available even in a busy holiday season. We serve children, teens, adults, families, and couples, with no waitlists and bilingual counselors available in English and Spanish.

Faith-based practices, quiet time with God, and support from trusted people can help bring a little peace back to our days. If you are feeling overwhelmed this year, you do not have to go it alone. We understand how powerful it can be to include faith in emotional care.

Your Next Step Toward Peace

Sometimes this season can feel heavier than expected, and we all need a quiet space to sort through emotions with someone who understands both faith and mental health. When support that honors your beliefs matters, our approach to Christian counseling in San Antonio can help you slow down, reflect, and feel more grounded. At La Luz Counseling, we walk alongside you with care and compassion. Let’s talk whenever you are ready.

The holiday season can bring warm lights, special meals, and time with loved ones. But for many people, especially in close family settings, it can also bring stress. Old expectations might get stirred up. There may be pressure to attend every event, act cheerful, or meet certain traditions, all while feeling stretched thin.

For some, family dynamics feel heavier this time of year. Maybe there is a history of past tension or the feeling that certain people always want to cross the line. If that sounds familiar, you are not alone. Setting clear, healthy boundaries is one way we can protect our peace and lower that holiday stress. When we know what feels safe or respectful for us, it becomes easier to enjoy the good parts of the season without getting overwhelmed.

That is something we have seen over and over in counseling in San Antonio. The holidays do not have to be perfect to be meaningful. They just need to be manageable.

Understanding Holiday Stress

Holiday stress often shows up in small ways. A tight chest before a gathering. A short temper while coordinating travel plans. Feeling guilt because we are not feeling happy enough. This time of year comes with extra expectations, both from ourselves and those around us.

Some common triggers include:

• Pressure to attend every family event, even with a busy schedule
• Old tensions resurfacing when everyone is under one roof
• Feeling left out of traditions or being expected to play a certain role
• Memories tied to grief, loss, or past disagreements
• The fast pace, noise, and chaos that feels hard to escape

For people who have lived through trauma or tough family events, these moments can bring up strong emotions. The holidays may heighten anxiety, show up in sleep trouble, or cause us to withdraw more than usual. When we expect everything to feel joyful, but our emotions do not match that, it can be confusing and lonely.

Recognizing these stress points early makes it easier to plan ahead. We do not have to accept stress as normal just because it happens every year.

What Healthy Boundaries Can Look Like

A healthy boundary is just a clear line that helps us feel safe and respected. During holiday gatherings, these boundaries might sound like:

• “I’d love to join dinner but can only stay for two hours.”
• “Let’s keep the conversation light, no politics or personal topics today.”
• “This year, we’re doing things differently, and that’s okay with us.”

Setting a boundary is not about making others uncomfortable or causing conflict. It is about knowing what we need to protect our mental space. There is a big difference between keeping the peace and people-pleasing. The first brings calm for everyone; the second often leaves us feeling tired and unseen.

Boundaries give everyone a clearer picture of what is okay and what is not. When we speak them kindly but firmly, it helps lower misunderstanding and resentment. And over time, they support stronger, more honest relationships.

Talking to Family Without Guilt

Talking about boundaries can feel awkward, especially when we are worried about disappointing people we care about. That is normal. But keeping everything inside often builds pressure that makes future conversations harder.

One way to begin is by naming your feelings gently. You might say, “I feel overwhelmed when our days get packed. I’d like to slow things down this year.” Or, “It has been a hard season for me emotionally, and I need a little more quiet time during the holidays.”

If someone reacts strongly or dismisses your boundary, that is not a reason to drop it. Sometimes people just need time to adjust. You still get to decide what feels healthy for you.

It helps to remember this: saying no to something that hurts your well-being is not rude. It is thoughtful. It shows that you care about showing up in ways that are honest and real, not just polite or expected.

Handling Tricky Situations During Gatherings

Even with boundaries in place, it is possible that tough situations will still pop up. Conversations might shift toward sensitive topics, or you might feel cornered into explaining a personal decision.

When that happens, try having a few responses ready:

• “I’d rather not get into that today.”
• “Let’s talk about something different.”
• “I’m going to step outside for a few minutes for some air and time away from this topic.”

You do not owe anyone an explanation beyond that. If the environment starts to feel too loud or tight, take a break. Step into another room, wash your hands, check in with a kid, or sit outside if the weather allows. Little moments of quiet can help reset your nervous system and give you space to think clearly.

Planning ahead can also help. Before the event, consider what topics you would rather avoid, what boundaries you want to keep, and who might support you if needed. Going in with a plan lets you feel more at ease, knowing you are allowed to take care of yourself.

When Faith and Family Feel at Odds

For people who lean on faith, the holidays can hold deep meaning. They might also come with extra pressure to show grace, patience, or forgiveness, even when we feel fully drained. It can bring up questions like, “Am I being loving if I say no?” or, “Does setting a boundary go against my values?”

Here is the truth: protecting your peace is not a lack of love. Sometimes, love looks like stepping away instead of stepping in. If your faith helps guide you through this season, use it as support, not a reason to feel guilty.

It is okay if your values do not match every part of your family’s views or habits. You can still be kind, still be present, just in ways that also feel healthy. You are not required to agree with everyone around you to share space with them.

Your faith can teach you to care for others, but it can also teach you to rest, to respect your limits, and to be honest. That balance matters.

Support for San Antonio Families During the Holidays

The holidays are a time when old emotions or stressful patterns often surface. If you or your family are struggling, you are not alone. We specialize in therapy for children, teens, adults, couples, and families in San Antonio. Our therapists offer both in-person and virtual sessions, so you can find support that fits your needs. With no waitlist and same-week appointments available, reaching out for help is simple and accessible when life feels most overwhelming.

If you prefer counseling aligned with your Christian faith, we offer optional Christian counseling approaches in English or Spanish. We understand the unique pressures families may face around the holiday season and use evidence-based techniques to help you develop strong boundaries and coping skills.

Holiday stress can feel overwhelming, but talking through your feelings in a calm, supportive space makes a difference. We understand how family patterns, old expectations, and seasonal pressure can add up quickly. Honest conversations matter, especially in a place where you feel comfortable. Our approach to counseling in San Antonio helps you protect your peace and stay connected to what matters most. When you are ready to find your balance, La Luz Counseling is here for you.

Hard seasons feel different for everyone. Maybe it is the loss of someone we care about, a big life change, or just a stretch of time where nothing feels steady. When daily life feels heavy, it is easy to lose a sense of peace or direction.

But for many people, especially those who lean on their faith, spiritual strength brings comfort in moments when things feel too big to handle alone. Christian counseling in San Antonio gives people space to talk honestly about what is happening in their lives while staying rooted in beliefs that guide and support them. This approach to therapy offers more than just conversation; it encourages calm, comfort, and healing through a mix of faith and trusted care.

What Is Christian Counseling?

Christian counseling is a way of combining mental health support with spiritual understanding. For people who want their faith to be part of how they heal, this kind of therapy creates a safe, open space to do just that.

We support clients with the same professional tools used in traditional therapy, but also invite ways to include Christian values and beliefs. This might involve reading scripture, praying, or simply discussing how faith plays a role in life’s challenges. The level of spiritual depth is always based on the person’s comfort.

An added benefit at La Luz Counseling is the option for both in-person and virtual sessions, making support accessible even for those with busy schedules. Bilingual counseling services are also available in English and Spanish, which can be significant for families and individuals seeking comfort in their preferred language.

It is not about handing out advice or pushing one way of thinking. It is about walking alongside someone with respect and care, listening to their story, and helping them connect the strength of their beliefs to what they are working through.

How It Helps During Times of Stress or Grief

Hard times can leave people feeling lost, tired, or unsure of which way to go next. In Christian counseling, people can bring their worries, heartaches, and doubts into the light. Nothing has to be hidden. Everything is heard.

This kind of open honesty makes it easier to sort through emotions and find hope again. Faith often reminds us we are not walking alone, even in the hardest seasons, and that reminder has power. Whether someone has questions about where God is in their pain or is just looking for a peaceful moment away from the noise, we create gentle ways to rest and reflect.

When included, prayer or calm Scripture readings can bring a deep sense of quiet for many. But it is not required. The only thing that matters is what feels helpful, not forced.

Finding Peace When Life Feels Out of Control

During seasons full of anxiety, grief, or big changes, it is easy to feel like everything is slipping. Christian counseling helps rebuild a sense of calm by focusing not just on fixing situations, but on learning how to stay steady even when life stays bumpy.

We often talk with people about what peace really means. It is not always the quiet of an easy life. Sometimes, peace is learning to breathe slower when your heart feels heavy. It is finding comfort in prayer or reflection when the world outside feels loud.

Counseling sessions can include small, meaningful practices that reconnect people with their faith and bring their focus back to the present. It is a way of saying, “I might not be able to control what is happening, but I can still find stillness in my spirit.”

Making Space for Faith in Everyday Challenges

Not all stress comes from big events. A lot of emotional weight can build up from what we deal with day to day. Work and school stress, parenting worries, relationship tension; all of it adds up over time.

Christian counseling creates room to talk through everyday tension while offering simple ways to stay strong through your faith life. Whether that means beginning each session with a prayer or finding verses that match your situation, faith becomes part of the work without taking over the process.

It helps to pause and think about small things that bring calm. Some people keep a list of meaningful scriptures close by. Others try a short moment of silence each morning to ground themselves before the day starts. These are everyday ways to find spiritual rhythm even when time is short.

Finding Hope and Healing That Lasts

Tough seasons do not last forever, but they often change us. What Christian counseling offers is not just relief in the moment, but tools and truths that carry forward into whatever comes next.

La Luz Counseling specializes in anxiety and trauma therapy for individuals ages 4 and up, so families and people at any stage of life can access faith-based healing. With no waitlist and same-week appointment availability, finding support can start right when you need it most.

By connecting pain with faith and taking the time to heal well, we help people learn how to live with deeper peace and more steady confidence. Over time, that makes facing new challenges feel less scary. There is strength in knowing that healing does not mean forgetting our hurt; it means building something new from it.

A Place for Peace and Support

When you are ready to find that kind of peace, La Luz Counseling is here to walk with you in faith, care, and hope. Our team is dedicated to helping individuals, children, teens, couples, and families throughout San Antonio find the blend of faith and professional guidance that best fits their needs.

Holding onto peace can feel harder than it used to, especially when you are trying to stay grounded in your faith during uncertain times. Through our approach to Christian counseling in San Antonio, we offer a calm space to talk, reflect, and grow in ways that align with what matters most to you. At La Luz Counseling, we are here to walk alongside you through whatever this season holds. Reach out to us when you are ready.

As the holiday season gets closer, daily life can start to feel crowded. Schedules fill up, plans stack on top of each other, and it’s easy to feel pulled in a hundred directions at once. Relationships, especially close ones like marriage or long-term partnerships, can get swept into the stress too. Small things that used to bring joy start feeling like chores. Tension builds, and communication slows down. But sometimes, something as simple as saying “thank you” can shift the feeling in a room.

The power of gratitude in marriage and relationships often shows up in tiny moments, like noticing a kind gesture or really hearing what your partner said at the end of a long day. When we learn to spot those little things more often, we give our relationship a better chance to grow into something calmer, stronger, and more connected. For couples in San Antonio navigating busy seasons, learning to bring in everyday gratitude can be one quiet but steady way to stay close.

What Gratitude Really Means in Marriage

Gratitude in a marriage isn’t about big speeches or expensive surprises. It’s usually much smaller than that. It sounds like, “Thanks for making coffee,” or “I saw how hard you worked today.” It looks like noticing the things your partner does without being asked and saying something about it, even simple stuff like picking up the groceries or folding the laundry.

These tiny acts of appreciation can make a big difference because they help both people feel seen and cared about. When someone feels valued, they tend to open up more easily and offer kindness in return. It becomes a slow, steady way to build warmth in the relationship. Over time, this habit also pulls focus away from what’s missing or frustrating, and instead brings attention to what’s working. Couples tend to feel closer when they’re looking for the good and not only noticing what needs to change.

How Thankfulness Changes the Way You Speak and Listen

The tone of our words can shift a whole conversation. In close relationships, things can get tense fast, especially during hard times. But when couples speak with appreciation, even tough discussions get softer around the edges. A simple, “I know you’ve been trying,” can take the sting out of a disagreement. Gratitude helps remind both people that they’re on the same team, even when it’s been a rough day.

It also changes how couples listen. Instead of waiting to argue back or defend a point, it creates more space for understanding. When thankful thinking becomes more natural, people start listening with kindness instead of just listening to win. That shift helps keep emotional walls from going up. Honest talks become easier when both partners feel safe and supported.

Everyday Gratitude Habits That Make a Big Difference

Working gratitude into daily life doesn’t need to be another chore. In fact, it works best when it slides into quiet routines. One way to start could be naming one good thing at the end of the day. Maybe it’s something your partner did. Maybe it’s something you both got through together. Saying it out loud helps it stick.

You don’t need grand gestures. The small stuff adds up. For example:

• Saying thank you when your partner takes care of a daily task
• Letting each other know that you noticed the effort
• Leaving short notes or texts that point out something good

The key is to make it regular, not perfect. Skipping a day or forgetting now and then is okay. What matters more is starting again without guilt. These bits of thankfulness can work their way into hard weeks and help bring back a sense of being connected, even when life feels hectic.

When Gratitude Feels Hard and What That Can Mean

There are times when feeling grateful just seems too far away. Busy schedules, arguments, or long periods of distance can leave people feeling worn thin. Sometimes, one partner feels like they’re doing more. Other times, both feel stuck. When thank-yous and kind gestures disappear, it’s normal to wonder if the relationship is alright.

If thankfulness isn’t coming easily, it doesn’t mean the relationship is broken. In fact, noticing that something feels off may be a quiet reminder that help could ease the strain. It might be a signal that deeper listening, healing conversations, or outside support would give the relationship a better path forward. Even couples who care deeply about each other can struggle to rebuild positive patterns without a little guidance.

Rebuilding Together, One Thank You at a Time

Gratitude doesn’t have to be complicated. When practiced regularly, it teaches couples how to look for things that bring light instead of focusing on shadows. It builds comfort and connection in places where frustration used to live. Simple words, thoughtful moments, and small acts of care can turn an ordinary day into one that feels shared and supportive.

At La Luz Counseling, couples benefit from a no-waitlist policy, meaning support is available when you need it most. Our counselors offer both virtual and in-person sessions for couples, and we integrate evidence-based methods that make it easier to rebuild positive connections, even when life feels uncertain. Our practice welcomes couples of all backgrounds, offering services in both English and Spanish, and creating a safe, inclusive space for everyone in San Antonio.

Whether a couple is just starting out or has weathered years together, learning to show thankfulness helps both partners feel valued and steady. And when that becomes a natural part of how two people relate to each other, it can invite more peace and trust into their everyday life. For couples looking to grow those strengths, talking with someone who understands relationships, especially through Couples Counseling in San Antonio, can help set those habits in motion. At La Luz Counseling, we meet couples where they are and walk beside them as they build something lasting.

At La Luz Counseling, we know that strong relationships take time, care, and the right kind of support. When gratitude feels harder to find or communication has become strained, talking things through with someone trained to help can make a real difference. Many couples notice that dedicated time to reconnect can bring back a sense of trust, clarity, and shared purpose. If you’re considering Couples Counseling in San Antonio, we’re here to listen and walk with you toward something steadier. Find a time that works for you.

WRITTEN BY SARAH RIVERA, LPC-S: DBT for Teens: How Parents Can Support Emotional Growth is all about giving both you and your teen tools to handle life’s challenges. Teens face a lot — GPA pressures, friend drama, relationship problems, making the team, homework, frustration with teachers, sibling fights, and even overbearing parents. It’s easy for parents to forget just how stressful their teen’s world can be. In this post, we’ll explore how Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) can help teens manage big emotions, accept what they can’t control, and build healthier relationships.

What Is DBT?

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is a type of therapy that teaches people how to accept things they can’t control, build healthy relationships, and manage strong emotions. The word dialectical means two things can be true at the same time. For example, you can accept something without liking it, feel relief and sadness at the same time, or be frustrated and still make a good choice.

The Four Pillars of DBT

DBT is built on four main skill areas:

1. 1. Mindfulness – Staying in the moment without judgment.
   2. Distress Tolerance – Getting through tough situations without making things worse.
   3. Emotion Regulation – Understanding and managing strong feelings.
   4. Interpersonal Effectiveness – Communicating and setting healthy boundaries.

What Is Emotion Regulation?

Emotion regulation means noticing what you feel, figuring out where that feeling is coming from, and choosing what to do next instead of letting the emotion take over. Before your teen can manage emotions, they first have to notice them. Once they do, they can slow down, think about what’s really going on, and make a choice that lines up with their values — not just their feelings. It’s not about ignoring emotions or pretending they aren’t there; it’s about taking the driver’s seat instead of letting those emotions steer the car. Like any skill, it takes practice, and the more your teen works at it, the easier it becomes to handle stress in healthy ways.

How Parents Can Help

Helping your teen cope with emotions starts with you.

• • Model the skills – Show them how you calm down under stress.
  • Validate before fixing – Say, “I can see you’re stressed,” before jumping into solutions.
  • Name the feeling – Help them figure out what they might be feeling.
  • Create a calm environment – Your stress level affects theirs.

Kids often mirror what they see. If you approach problems calmly, they are more likely to do the same.

DBT Skills That Help With Stress

Learning emotion regulation takes more than just “calming down.” DBT gives teens practical tools they can use in the moment, especially when feelings are running high. These skills aren’t about ignoring emotions — they’re about finding ways to respond that keep the situation from getting worse and help your teen feel more in control.

Here are a few key DBT skills for emotion regulation:

1. Feelings Are Not Facts

Feelings can be intense, but that doesn’t make them true. Help your teen check the facts and see if their emotions match the situation.
Example: If they didn’t get invited to a party, it doesn’t mean no one likes them — it may just mean space was limited.

2. Opposite Action

When emotions push them toward something unhelpful (like isolating when they feel hurt), they can choose the opposite action (like reaching out to a friend). This helps shift their mood and keep relationships strong.

Why a Therapist Can Help

As teens grow, they naturally seek more independence and start making more of their own choices. That’s a normal and healthy part of development — but it can also mean they don’t always want to take advice from parents. Sometimes the same message you’ve been saying for years will click instantly when it comes from a coach, teacher, or therapist. This isn’t because you’re doing anything wrong; it’s simply that teens often respond differently when they hear something from another trusted adult.

A DBT-trained therapist can:

• • Teach and practice these skills in real time
  • Reinforce what you’ve already modeled at home
  • Help your teen handle emotions in healthier ways
  • Loop you in so you can stay on top of what’s going on with your child too.

If your teen is struggling with stress, we can help. Contact La Luz Counseling to learn how DBT and other therapy approaches can support your teen and your family.

WRITTEN BY BRITNEY VINCENT, LPC: If back-to-school season is leaving you wonderinf how to support your child’s mental health this school year, you’re not alone. Sure, anticipation of the new school year can bring excitement and eagerness, but let’s be real- sometimes there’s a mix of anxiety and overwhelm too. We are preparing ourselves for packing lunches, checking homework, and managing all the changes.

While routines and check-ins go a long way, mental health support doesn’t stop there. Here are five ways you can support your child’s emotional well-being as they head back to school.

1. Talk About What’s in Their Control

School can feel unpredictable. What friends will be in the class? Who will the teacher be? What time is lunch? Alot of these questions you may not have an answer to. So instead of talking about the possibilities, focus on things you know. Help your child focus on what they can control—what to pack for lunch, what to wear on their first day, or choosing to be kind. This is known to build confidence and reduce anxiety.

“We can’t control everything, but let’s talk about what we can control.”

2. Create a Worry-Release Routine

Kids often carry stress without the words to tell us what they’re feeling. Start a simple daily routine to let those worries go—like writing them on paper and tossing them in a “worry jar,” praying them out loud in the morning drive, or whispering them into a stuffed animal before bed. These simple routines help kids name their worries and let them go.

This helps move the stress out of their body and gives them the tools to share what they’re feeling and ask for help.

3. Limit Over-Scheduling

It can be easy to pack every afternoon with sports, clubs, and extra activities, but kids need unstructured time to relax and recharge. Think about yourself- don’t you ever get tired doing all the driving, all the prepping, all the planning and we’re not even the ones doing the activity! Imagine your kiddo: a mental demand for 8 hours at school, then another 2 physically or mentally demanding hours in the afternoon. Give them space to simply play, daydream, or unwind to strengthen creativity and help emotions regulate.

Think of rest as essential as homework—it helps build a healthy, balanced life and teaches us that it’s okay to take time for ourselves.

4. Speak Kindly About Mistakes

Back-to-school can bring fear of failure or perceiving they’ve done something wrong. When your child makes a mistake, respond with curiosity instead of criticism. This encourages your child to see mistakes as something to learn from and develop a more positive, forgiving view of themselves.

“Everyone messes up. What do you think you could try next time?”

5. Include Mental Health in Your Family Conversations

Make emotional well-being a normal part of family life. Talk about emotions as something healthy, not something to hide. Share stories of your own emotions that day. The more you normalize these topics, the safer your child will feel bringing up their own struggles and coming to you for support when they’re struggling.

When I woke up this morning I felt so scatter-brained I was nervous I might forget something important. But then I remembered there’s nothing so big I can’t handle one step at a time.

When to Reach Out

If your child’s anxiety or stress feels like more than you can manage alone, don’t wait to seek support. How do you know when it’s become too big? If your mornings are consistently derailed, you’re frequently late to school due to meltdowns, or you’re getting regular calls from the school nurse or counselor, it may be time to take a closer look. While it’s normal for kids to get emotional, persistent episodes—especially those lasting more than 15 minutes and happening multiple times a day—can be a sign that they need extra support. Counseling can offer tools, language, and guidance to help children and families navigate these big emotions together.

At La Luz Counseling, we’re here to walk alongside your family. Reach out today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can support you and your child this school year.

Why do minority groups avoid therapy? It’s a question that mental health professionals, advocates, and community members continue to explore—and the answers are layered. Despite the growing awareness around mental wellness, individuals from minority backgrounds often face unique cultural, social, and systemic barriers that make finding and accepting counseling much more difficult.

In this blog, we’ll break down four key reasons why therapy can feel out of reach for many—and what we can do to bridge the gap.

1. Physical Problems Get More Attention Than Mental Health Problems

It’s very common for people in minority groups to seek help from medical doctor before thinking of a mental health provider. That’s because many emotional struggles first show up in the body.

Unexplained headaches, stomach pain, or chest tightness might not be medical at all—but symptoms of emotional distress. This is known as psychosomatic pain. Anxiety attacks, for example, often lead people to the emergency room, convinced they’re having a heart attack. When traditional physical treatments don’t work, the underlying issue is often emotional or psychological.

Unfortunately, without culturally informed education on mental health, people may continue to seek physical remedies for mental wounds.

2. Feeling Ashamed to Get Help

In many minority households, therapy is still seen as something for people who are “crazy” or severely disturbed. As a Latina counselor, I’ve seen both sides of this coin—family members who proudly share that I’m a therapist… yet would never consider counseling for themselves.

For older generations especially, emotional challenges are handled privately. The cultural mindset often says: “You don’t air your dirty laundry” or “Just be strong and it will pass.” This stigma runs deep and discourages people from asking for the help they need.

3. Hard to Find A Mental Health Therapist You Can Relate To

Relatability matters. Many clients feel more comfortable with a therapist who looks like them, speaks their language, or understands their cultural background. Unfortunately, there’s still a shortage of therapists from diverse backgrounds.

Let’s say an older Mexican man prefers to speak Spanish and wants someone who shares his generational and cultural experience. Depending on where he lives, that could be difficult to find. The mismatch in language, culture, or lived experience can create another barrier to seeking support.

4. Don’t Know Where to Start

Finally, some people simply don’t know where to start. They don’t know what kind of help they need, who to ask, or what therapy really involves. The process feels foreign—especially for someone who’s never seen therapy modeled in their family or community.

Even as a mental health professional myself, I’ve faced challenges finding the right therapist. So I can only imagine how confusing it must feel for someone unfamiliar with the mental health landscape. Without clear direction or culturally accessible information, avoidance becomes the default.

How We Can Help Bridge the Gap

Talk About Mental Health in Everyday Places

Mental health doesn’t have to be a scary or private topic. We can start talking about it in places people already trust—like churches, schools, or community events. When we have honest conversations about stress, emotions, or therapy, it helps others feel like it’s okay to ask for help too. The more we talk, the less scary it feels.

Find Therapists Who Understand Your Culture

It’s easier to open up when your therapist understands your background. That’s why it’s important to have more therapists who speak your language or know your culture. We can also support programs that help more people of color become counselors, so everyone has a better chance of finding someone they can relate to. 

¿Está buscando una consejera que hable español? ¡Estamos aquí para ayudarle!