A Trauma Therapist Explains the Link Between Trauma and Chronic Illness (& 3 Ways to Regain Balance and Heal)

Written by: Lauran Hahn, LMHC

You've been on this journey for so long now, treating your chronic disease, and the more you read about it, the more you recognize the overlap between trauma and chronic illness. When you look back on your experiences, you can see the connections.

You start to realize that some of it may be true for you and that trauma might have directly influenced not only your emotional well-being but your physical health as well. For example, if you frequently faced physical punishment as a child or often witnessed domestic violence or abuse, experiences can trigger chronic stress. Over time, this ongoing stress can lead to long-term health problems such as high blood pressure, heart issues, digestive disorders, autoimmune diseases, and chronic pain.

Our trauma therapists at Mindful Living Counseling Orlando, often see clients recovering from trauma who experience various chronic illnesses. So, as an Orlando therapist, I would like to help you understand the overlap between trauma and chronic disease. Allow me to explain how trauma affects your physical health and how to break this cycle.

An Orlando Therapist Explains Why We Can't "Confirm nor Deny" - A Word About HIPAA

Written by: Lauran Hahn, LMHC

Have you ever called a therapy practice and been told, “We cannot confirm or deny if this person is a client”?

We understand how frustrating that can be. Maybe you’re trying to check in on a loved one’s progress in therapy. Maybe you’re worried about their well-being. Perhaps you’re just hoping for reassurance that they’re in good hands.

When you reach out to a therapy practice, it’s because you care. However mental health professionals are legally and ethically bound by strict privacy laws—which means we cannot share any information about a client. And that includes confirming whether or not someone is a client.

Understanding Grief: An Orlando Therapist Explains What to Expect After a Loss

Written by: Lauran Hahn, LMHC

You have recently experienced a loss, and you feel overwhelmed and lost. You don't know how to cope with the pain. You feel exhausted from intense emotions that won't allow you to catch a break. One minute, you might feel numb and completely disconnected from everything around you, only to feel completely overwhelmed by emotions that can't translate into words the next—like you're drowning, unable to catch a breath. It's a lot. If you're feeling this way, you're not alone, and there's nothing wrong with you.

As an Orlando Therapist, I want to help you understand what to expect during the grieving process and how to make space for healing.

At Mindful Living Counseling in Orlando, our experienced counselors offer counseling, support, and guidance to help you process loss in a way that feels right.

An Orlando Therapist Explains 5 Stages of Grief

Written by: Lauran Hahn, LMHC

Grief is something most people experience after a significant loss. Still, it can leave you feeling stuck and unsure of how to move forward. You may experience guilt for wanting to continue with life, fear of forgetting your loved one, or confusion after losing a meaningful relationship or job. You may have no energy for social interactions and everyday tasks, struggle to concentrate, and feel guilty about taking time to grieve. Communicating your feelings about the loss can also be challenging. You might have many questions, such as, "How long will this pain last? Is it normal to feel angry? When will I start to feel better? Will I ever truly move on? Why do I feel so alone?"

As an Orlando Therapist, I want to help you understand the stages of grief and what to expect throughout the grieving process. At Mindful Living Counseling in Orlando, our experienced therapists are here to help you navigate your emotions with compassion, support, and guidance so you can heal in a way that feels right for you.

Why Weekly EMDR Therapy Sessions Are Essential for Lasting Change

Written by Lauran Hahn, LMHC

Have you been considering EMDR therapy but aren’t sure if you’re ready to commit to weekly sessions? You’ve heard about the life-changing results, but the thought of attending therapy regularly feels like a big step.

As a trauma therapist, I frequently get asked why weekly sessions are recommended for EMDR therapy—and the answer lies in how EMDR works.

Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR involves deep processing of traumatic memories, requiring consistency and nervous system regulation to ensure the best results.

Trauma Therapist: How Disconnection Protects You – Understanding Dissociation

Written by: Lauran Hahn, LMHC

Have you ever felt numb, distant, or like you're watching your life from the outside? Maybe you struggle to recall certain memories, or emotions seem just out of reach. That sense of disconnection can feel confusing and isolating, leaving you wondering, Why do I feel this way?

As a Trauma Therapist, I have worked with many clients seeking trauma therapy who don't have access to their emotions, body sensations, or even memories.

Couples Therapy Orlando: Letting Go of the Pressure for a Perfect Valentine’s Day

Written by: Lauran Hahn, LMHC

As soon as you've packed away your Christmas decorations and taken a breather from winter holiday gift shopping, you may find yourself feeling overwhelmed by the pressure of making another big one as perfect as possible: Valentine's Day. Whether you're in a long-term relationship or just starting out, you may easily find yourself stressing out about trying to create the perfect experience instead of truly enjoying it.

The stress of creating the perfect Valentine's experience can take away from the moment, making it harder to be present, spontaneous, and open to unexpected joy.

Couples Therapy Orlando: The Four Relationship Killers

Written by: Lauran Hahn, LMHC

“I can’t do this anymore."

The words hit like a punch to the gut. Maybe you’ve said them. Maybe you’ve heard them. Or maybe you’ve felt them creeping in, unspoken but heavy between you and your partner.

No one enters a relationship expecting it to fall apart, but over time, things can change. The small moments of connection begin to diminish. Conversations shift from meaningful exchanges to mere logistical discussions. Disagreements start to feel larger and more burdensome. Before you know it, you find yourself caught in patterns of criticism, defensiveness, and resentment.

Orlando Anxiety Therapist Shares: How to (Truly) Set Boundaries That Give You Your Power Back

Written by: Lauran Hahn, LMHC

You’ve heard a lot about boundaries, and maybe you’ve even tried setting some. You’ve taken the time to express what you need, want, and desire. But then—nothing changes. You find yourself wondering: Why isn’t this working? Why aren’t they honoring my boundary?

Many people believe that setting boundaries is simply about clearly communicating their needs. While that’s an important step, it’s only part of the process.

Orlando Anxiety Therapist Shares: How to Handle Life's Curveballs

Written by: Lauran Hahn, LMHC

Life has a way of surprising us, sometimes in ways we never expected or prepared for. Whether it's a sudden loss, an unforeseen challenge, or a major life transition, these moments can shake us to our core.

As an anxiety therapist I know when faced with the unexpected, it’s important to approach the situation with compassion, patience, and a clear mindset. Here are some key steps to help you navigate life’s curveballs with resilience and self-care.

Anxiety Therapist Shares A Guided Practice: Parts Circle Meditation

Written and recorded by: Lauran Hahn, LMHC

Step into a guided meditation crafted to help you connect with the many parts of yourself in a space of calm, curiosity, and compassion. This practice invites you to pause, listen deeply, and embrace each part of your inner world with kindness and understanding. As an anxiety therapist, I understand how important moments of peace are.

Anxiety Therapy Orlando Shares A Guided Meditation: Presence & Intention

Written and recorded by: Lauran Hahn, LMHC

As an Orlando therapist, I often witness how the demands of daily life can pull us away from the present moment and disrupt our inner calm. Whether you're managing stress, processing emotions, or looking for ways to feel more grounded, mindfulness offers a powerful path to healing and self-connection.

To begin, find a quiet space where you won’t be disturbed. Choose a private, uninterrupted setting that allows you to focus fully on yourself.

Anxiety Therapy Orlando: How Online Sessions Can Help

Written by: Lauran Hahn, LMHC

Sometimes, we get so caught up in the y routine that taking care of our emotional well-being falls off the radar—even though we know it's important. While unsettling, racing thoughts, restless nights, and a constant knot in your stomach are hard to shake, the idea of going to a therapist's office can feel overwhelming, especially with the chance of running into someone you know. And with the chaos of holiday shopping, back-to-back parties, and looming deadlines, finding time for yourself feels nearly impossible.

As an anxiety therapist in Orlando, I understand that prioritizing your mental health isn't always easy. But you deserve time to care for yourself, no matter how busy life gets. Our online anxiety therapy sessions at Mindful Living Counseling, Orlando, FL, provide a flexible and convenient way to focus on your mental health from the comfort of your home or any other place that feels convenient.

Anxiety Therapist Shares A Guided Meditation: Box Breathing

By: Lauran Hahn, LMHC

At Mindful Living Counseling Orlando, we believe in the power of grounding practices to support clients dealing with anxiety and trauma. Guided meditation is one of our favorite tools to help you find calm and clarity in the midst of life’s challenges.

In our previous blog post, Box Breathing: A Tool for Anxiety, we introduced the concept and benefits of box breathing. Now, we’re excited to share this follow-up—a guided meditation designed to help you incorporate this powerful technique into your daily routine. Find a comfortable space, take a deep breath, and let this meditation guide you toward stillness and peace.