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“Go in the direction of where your peace is coming from.” ― C. JoyBell C.
Serenity Place Blog
Practical mental health tools, relationship insights, and the latest news from our practice. Whether you are looking for a new perspective on wellbeing or just keeping up with our team, you’ll find resources designed for individuals and families here.
*The content on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health treatment. If you're struggling, please reach out to a licensed therapist or call/text 988 to connect with the Mental Health Crisis Hotline.
What is Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)?
Learn more about Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and how it works.
Serenity Sam
Dec 16, 20252 min read
What Is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?
CBT helps you understand the link between your thoughts, feelings, and actions so you don’t get stuck in the same mental loops. It gives you practical tools you can actually use on stressful days, not just the good ones. If you’ve ever wondered why your mind reacts the way it does or how to change habits that keep dragging you down, this breakdown makes the process easier to see and easier to start.
Serenity Sam
Nov 21, 20253 min read
Coverage Updates for Medication Management for Mental Health
Starting medication for your mental health shouldn’t be confusing. This post explains which insurance plans we can currently accept for medication management and what to expect if you’re on our waitlist. Learn whether we have openings for Tricare, Kaiser, or Champ VA, or when we’ll be in-network with plans like BCBS, Cigna, Aetna, Medicaid, and Medicare. Clear updates, no surprises, just transparency while we finish credentialing.
Serenity Sam
Oct 29, 20252 min read
Integrating Care: How Medication Management Supports Mental Health
Serenity Place is expanding access to mental health care in Southern Maryland with NP Brittany Szaks. With over 20 years of experience in pediatric, emergency, and behavioral health settings, Brittany offers medication management and psychiatric evaluations that bridge medical and therapeutic care. Her compassionate and patient-centered approach helps patients feel supported and understood throughout their mental health journey.
Serenity Sam
Oct 21, 20252 min read
Nurse Practitioner Q&A
Have questions about seeing our nurse practitioner with Tricare, Champ VA, or Kaiser Permanente? We’ve put together a quick Q&A to help clarify what to expect and how coverage works.
Serenity Sam
Oct 6, 20251 min read
Therapy Myths vs. Facts: What You Really Need to Know
Therapy is often misunderstood. From “therapy is only for serious problems” to “it means you’re weak,” myths can prevent people from seeking support. Learn the facts about therapy and how it helps with growth, resilience, and mental health.
Serenity Sam
Sep 8, 20252 min read
When Your Mind Won’t Shut Off: Why Talking It Through Matters
Carrying the weight of constant thoughts alone is exhausting. With therapy online, you can talk through what’s on your mind and start to uncover what truly helps you feel more like yourself again.
Serenity Sam
Aug 29, 20252 min read
The Benefits of Virtual Therapy
Virtual therapy makes it easier to prioritize your mental health from the comfort of home. Learn how our licensed therapists can support you with stress, relationships, and life transitions through flexible online sessions.
Serenity Sam
Aug 20, 20251 min read
Rethinking Anxiety: From Roadblock to Resource
Anxiety doesn’t have to be the enemy. In a presentation at Grace Lutheran Church & School, James McDaniel, LMSW, and Dr. Amanda Leal, DSW, LCSW-C shared how reframing anxiety can turn it from a roadblock into a tool for growth, resilience, and empowerment—backed by science.
Serenity Sam
Aug 15, 20252 min read
Task Snacking: The Stress-Free Way to Tackle Big Projects
Feeling overwhelmed by your to-do list? Task snacking is a stress-busting productivity strategy that turns big projects into small, manageable steps. Discover how breaking your work into quick “snacks” can help you beat procrastination, build momentum, and get more done, without burning out.
Serenity Sam
Aug 12, 20252 min read
Affordable Therapy Now Available with Our Supervised Interns
Therapy shouldn’t be out of reach. Our intern program offers quality, supervised counseling for just $25 per session — no insurance required. Learn how you can get started and connect with a therapist who’s here to support you.
Serenity Sam
Aug 11, 20251 min read
Understanding the Trauma Iceberg: What’s Beneath the Surface
Many trauma responses go unseen. What looks like anger, defiance, or withdrawal on the outside often hides deeper pain—like shame, fear, or depression. The “Trauma Iceberg” helps us understand that what’s visible is only part of the story. In this post, we explore how trauma manifests beneath the surface and why compassionate, trauma-informed care matters.
Serenity Sam
Aug 4, 20252 min read
Moving In!
We’re settling in! Moving furniture into the office is one more step toward creating a warm, welcoming space for healing and connection.
Esther Vanderwal
Feb 5, 20171 min read
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