![A-to-Z Reflection [2016]](https://jenncrowellauthor.files.wordpress.com/2016/05/a-to-z-reflection-2016.jpg?w=764)
I wasn’t sure whether I would actually finish the A to Z Blogging Challenge this past April, but I did — and absolutely loved it. I’ve learned so many things from the experience. Continue reading
{Mental Health Mondays} The 4 Modules of DBT
I’ve made it no secret that DBT saved my life. It was an intensive nine-month therapy program that built up my strengths in four key training areas called “modules.” I’d like to break these down into their component parts today. Continue reading
{Writing Wednesday} Professional Development Strategies for MFA Students
With both the academic job market and the publishing industry in less-than-optimal straits, it’s easy for MFA students to feel apprehensive and disheartened about their post-graduation prospects. Here are several strategies for keeping afloat in tough times. Continue reading
{Mental Health Mondays} Radical Acceptance
In my previous post about DBT and Zen Buddhism, I mentioned an important concept called radical acceptance. Today I’d like to explore it in greater detail. Continue reading
Not Quite Zen, But Getting There
Seven years ago, while in a lot of distress, I entered a program of therapy called DBT, which emphasized concepts from Buddhism. It literally saved my life. Continue reading
Staying in “Yes”
This week at the dance class I attend, we moved to a song that talked about “staying in yes” — focusing on what you want rather than what you don’t, evaluating all the options and choosing the best one. Continue reading
Xenophobia: An Act of “Othering”
The term xenophobia is traditionally used to describe fear of literal foreigners from distant countries. I think it can reasonably describe any process by which a person or group of people are perceived as “the other.” Continue reading
Weathering the Storms of Anxiety
I frequently struggle with bouts of severe anxiety. One of my (usually effective) coping strategies is to distract myself, but lately I have found that tuning into the anxiety helps as well. Continue reading
The Importance of Validation for Abuse Survivors
The need for validation is an utterly human one. We both desire and deserve to be heard — and this goes doubly so for those of us on the margins. Continue reading
Jenn Crowell 