Blog Posts

We all have belief systems about ourselves, other people, and the world around us.  The belief systems we have impact how we operate.  They impact how we see ourselves, what kind of relationships and friendships we have, and how we show up in the world.    Our core beliefs are the central idea we have of ourselves, others, and the world.  They act like a lens through how we see every experience and situation.  Since we don’t all  all operate from the same set of beliefs we might think, feel, and behave differently than others; even if the situation is the same.  We all interpret situations differently, because of our thoughts and interpretations we then feel and act in accordance.  One thing we teach in therapy is called the ABC model.  This model allows us to explore our interpretations of situations, validate our feelings, but challenge our interpretation to behave in a way that feels in line to our true self.  Harmful core beliefs lead to negative thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, whereas rational core beliefs lead to balanced reactions.  Our goal in therapy is help our clients identify and challenge the belief systems that are getting in their way and create more rational belief systems that help lead to more balance.   Core beliefs can stem from childhood like what our parents and caregivers believe, traumatic experiences, religion, and peers.  Regardless of where the belief system came from, if it is no longer serving you we can work on exploring ways to create more helpful belief systems.  EMDR is one research based way to accomplish this.  We love to see the difference more balanced belief systems can make in the lives of those we work with.  Stay tuned next week we will share examples of limiting beliefs and beliefs that may be more beneficial.    Until next time.         Emilie Barragan, LCSW