Serenity Behavioral Health Services

  What started you on the path to helping others... In my experience, I don't think I have ever met anyone in my field who has ever told me that they just woke up one morning and thought about doing this for a living, but that it was a very specific path that led them here and I would have to say the same goes for me, as well. In fact, most if not all of my previous jobs growing up, and in young adulthood, had something to do with helping others. I remember being in my early teens and teaching at our family dance studio, specifically younger kids, ages 2-4. It may seem like a tall task, but I cannot tell you how satisfying it really is when they start to learn and retain the information. It also is a perfect way to teach younger children how to let loose and have fun. A lot of what we teach clients in adulthood, as well. But my biggest path that led me here was honestly my father. Growing up, my dad was in the air force reserves and went on a lot of deployments overseas. Without sh...

  “ A fool is made more of a fool when their mouth is more open than their mind, ” — Anthony Liccione Thinking before speaking may save us from an uttered blunder, but putting this into practice and living it may actually be more beneficial than saving us from an embarrassing conversation contribution. Communicating correctly and speaking with intent helps us within our personal and business relationships. Being clear and decisive about what you mean when you say it, keeps others from having to interpret your intent. Words are powerful and cannot be unsaid or unheard once said; thinking first can lead to impactful conversations without regret or the need for apology. How to Think Before You Speak: Pause and think - think about what you are about to say and the repercussions it may have. Analyze and filter - is it appropriate, am I revealing too much? Pause and question to clarify - asking questions helps to provide appropriate responses Sometimes not responding is a good respons...

Listening is a fundamental component of conversation. Being a good listener or becoming a better listener is an active process that includes showing you are listening, asking questions that encourage sharing, and understanding what is being said by the person speaking. Actively listening can help draw out details that otherwise may not have been shared and it is a helpful skill to develop in personal and business relationships. How can you be a better listener? Following are some helpful techniques that can help you get started on your journey to being a better listener. Show you are listening Focus on the conversation and remove distractions. Turn the television off or mute the sound. Put your phone away. If the area you are in is loud, move to a place where you can speak and hear each other. Listen for emotions and meaning, make eye contact, evaluate the tone of what is being said and body language associated with it. Be patient. Don’t interrupt with questions or comments that can le...