mental health
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Art of Helping Beyond Fixing
Helping is fundamentally a group process, even when working with individuals, as two people constitute a group. In a therapeutic context, it focuses on assisting individuals facing “life challenges such as addiction, trauma, or mental health issues” (p. 5). The therapist’s role is not to “change people,” but to “empower them with knowledge and tools Continue reading
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The Science of you
Crash course in Introduction to Psychology Continue reading
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Assertiveness as a Core Communication Skill
From Lecture Series by Dr. Curtis Peterson Assertiveness is a cornerstone of effective interpersonal communication. It involves the ability to express one’s thoughts, emotions, and needs in a clear, direct, and respectful manner. Unlike aggression, which violates the rights of others, or passivity, which neglects one’s own rights, assertiveness maintains a balanced approach that fosters Continue reading
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Models of Addiction and Relapse: A Biopsychosocial Approach
By: Dr. Curtis Peterson Addiction is a complex and multifaceted condition influenced by various biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors. Understanding relapse—defined as a return to substance use after a period of abstinence—requires a nuanced examination of the different models that attempt to explain the causes and treatment of addiction. This chapter explores major theoretical models Continue reading
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Silence in Counseling: A Therapeutic Tool
Silence is often overlooked in discussions of counseling skills, yet it holds profound therapeutic value. In Western society—particularly in the dominant American culture—silence is frequently associated with discomfort, awkwardness, or social failure (Bruneau, 1973). However, from both cultural and therapeutic perspectives, silence can serve as a powerful means of communication and connection when used intentionally Continue reading
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Developing Facilitation Skills in Therapeutic Group Settings
By. Dr. Curtis Peterson Introduction Facilitation is a critical competency in group counseling and therapeutic practice. At its core, facilitation refers to guiding a group through processes that enable them to achieve their shared goals. Unlike directive leadership, facilitation emphasizes empowerment, collaboration, and neutrality. Effective facilitation draws on foundational skills of attending, listening, and reflecting, which Continue reading
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Understanding Groups and Group Therapy Dynamics
By: Dr. Curtis Peterson What Are Groups? In psychology and therapeutic contexts, a group is commonly defined as two or more individuals who come into personal and meaningful contact on a continuous basis (Forsyth, 2018). While groups can range in size and function, therapeutic groups typically consist of 6 to 9 members. This size allows for Continue reading
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Attraction
By: Dr. Curtis Peterson Attraction and mate selection are foundational concepts in the field of psychology, particularly within social and evolutionary psychology. While attraction refers to the general desire to form voluntary relationships with others, mate selection narrows that focus to choosing a specific individual for an intimate, often romantic and reproductive, partnership (Aronson, Wilson, Continue reading
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Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Mate Selection and Romantic Relationships
By Dr. Curtis Peterson Introduction Mate selection is a fundamental aspect of human social behavior that is influenced by evolutionary, psychological, and cultural factors. While biological imperatives drive reproductive success, cultural norms and social expectations shape how individuals perceive and pursue romantic relationships. This chapter explores the cultural dynamics of mate selection, the psychological underpinnings of Continue reading
About Me
Welcome—I’m Dr. Curtis Peterson.
Thank you for visiting my site dedicated to exploring the powerful connection between identity and loneliness. For over 20 years, I’ve studied how our sense of self and our need for social connection shape nearly every aspect of human experience.
My mission is to highlight a fundamental truth: we are a deeply social species, and when that need for belonging is ignored or denied, it can lead to a wide range of emotional, psychological, and even physical challenges. Through research, education, and practical tools, I aim to help individuals and organizations recognize the critical role of connection—and how embracing it can transform lives.
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Recent Posts
- When Words Become Bullets: The Charlie Kirk Assassination and the Peril of Political Violence
- When Words Become Bullets: The Charlie Kirk Assassination and the Peril of Political Violence
- Art of Helping Beyond Fixing
- Social Identity, Loneliness, and the Need to Belong – The Double Edged Sword
- Social Identity, Loneliness, and the Need to Belong
Identity, Social Connection, and Loneliness 