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Because it's never too late
Dr. Christina Wood, PsyD, LMFT, LAADC-CA
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Phone (310) 613-1841
All Posts


Navigating Holiday Triggers: Coping Strategies for Trauma Responses
The holiday season often brings joy, family gatherings, and celebrations. Yet for many, it can also awaken difficult memories and emotional responses linked to past trauma. The mix of expectations, social interactions, and sensory experiences can trigger feelings that feel overwhelming or hard to manage. Recognizing how holidays can affect mental health is the first step toward finding ways to cope and protect your well-being during this time. A calm holiday setting with gent
christinawood1977
6 days ago3 min read
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Addiction as a Disease: Unraveling Its Complex Nature and Impact
Addiction often carries a heavy stigma, seen by many as a failure of willpower or a moral weakness. Yet, decades of scientific research reveal a different reality: addiction is a chronic disease that affects the brain and behavior. This perspective changes how society approaches prevention, treatment, and support for those affected. Exploring addiction as a disease helps clarify its complexity and the profound impact it has on individuals and communities. Brain scan showing n
christinawood1977
7 days ago3 min read
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What Is Codependency and How It Affects Relationships
Codependency is a pattern of behavior where one person excessively relies on another for emotional support, approval, or identity. This dynamic often leads to unhealthy relationships where boundaries blur, and personal needs get overlooked. Recognizing codependency is crucial because it can deeply affect how people connect, communicate, and grow together. Signs of Codependency in Relationships Codependency shows up in many ways, but some common signs include: Difficulty sayin
christinawood1977
Nov 203 min read
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The Impact of the Holiday Season on Mental Health and Wellbeing
The holiday season often brings images of joy, celebration, and togetherness. Yet, for many, this time of year can also trigger stress, anxiety, and feelings of loneliness. The contrast between festive expectations and personal experiences creates a complex emotional landscape that affects mental health in significant ways. How the Holiday Season Affects Mental Health The holiday period introduces unique pressures that can influence mental wellbeing. These pressures include s
christinawood1977
Nov 193 min read
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The Impact of Addiction on Family Dynamics and Relationships
Addiction is often seen as a personal struggle, but its effects ripple far beyond the individual. Families of those battling addiction face complex challenges that can reshape relationships, alter daily life, and create lasting emotional wounds. This post explores how addiction influences family dynamics, the emotional toll on loved ones, and ways families can navigate these difficult waters. A quiet living room showing signs of disruption and absence How Addiction Changes Fa
christinawood1977
Nov 183 min read
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The Connection Between Trauma and Addiction Uncovered
Trauma and addiction often appear linked, yet the depth of their relationship remains overlooked. Many people struggling with addiction carry hidden wounds from past traumatic experiences. These wounds can shape behaviors, emotions, and coping mechanisms in ways that lead to substance use or other addictive behaviors. Exploring this connection reveals why addiction treatment must address trauma to be effective. How Trauma Influences Addiction Risk Trauma refers to deeply dist
christinawood1977
Nov 173 min read
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Understanding Addiction: A Comprehensive Neurological and Psychological Perspective
Addiction affects millions worldwide, yet many misunderstand what it truly means. It is not simply a lack of willpower or a moral failing. Instead, addiction is a complex condition involving changes in the brain and behavior. To grasp addiction fully, it helps to explore it from both neurological and psychological viewpoints. This approach reveals how addiction develops, why it is so challenging to overcome, and what strategies can support recovery. Brain model showing neural
christinawood1977
Nov 133 min read
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Healing from Childhood Trauma and Its Impact on Adult Life
Childhood trauma leaves marks that often extend far beyond the early years. Many adults carry invisible wounds from difficult experiences in childhood, which can shape their emotions, relationships, and overall well-being. Recognizing how these early events influence adult life is a crucial step toward healing and building a healthier future. How Childhood Trauma Shapes Adult Behavior Trauma experienced during childhood can affect brain development and emotional regulation. W
christinawood1977
Nov 122 min read
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Navigating Military PTSD and Its Impact on Mental Health and Wellness After Service
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affects many military personnel during and after their service. The intense experiences soldiers face in combat zones can leave lasting marks on their mental health. Transitioning from military life to civilian life often brings new challenges that can worsen these effects. This post explores how military PTSD influences mental health and wellness, both during active duty and after returning to civilian life, offering practical insights f
christinawood1977
Nov 113 min read
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The Hidden Dangers of Social Media on Mental Health
Social media has become a daily habit for billions worldwide, offering connection and entertainment. Yet, beneath the surface lies a growing concern: social media can harm mental health in subtle but powerful ways. Understanding this toxic connection is essential for anyone who uses these platforms regularly. How Social Media Shapes Our Mental State Social media platforms are designed to capture attention and encourage frequent use. This design often leads to constant compari
christinawood1977
Nov 113 min read
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Understanding the Complex Relationship Between Mental Health and Addiction
Mental health and addiction often exist side by side, creating a challenging cycle for those affected. Many people struggle with both issues simultaneously, yet the connection between them is not always clear. Understanding how mental health conditions and addiction influence each other can help individuals, families, and professionals find better ways to support recovery and well-being. How Mental Health and Addiction Are Linked Mental health disorders and addiction frequent
christinawood1977
Nov 63 min read
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Understanding the Varied Faces of Depression and Its Impact on Individuals
Depression is a complex mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is often misunderstood, with many believing it to be merely a state of sadness or a fleeting feeling of low mood. However, depression is much more than that; it can manifest in various ways and impact individuals differently. This blog post aims to explore the diverse faces of depression, shedding light on how it affects people uniquely and the importance of understanding these diffe
christinawood1977
Nov 53 min read
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Breaking the Silence: Understanding Therapy and Destigmatizing Mental Health
Mental health has been a topic shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding for far too long. Despite increasing awareness of its significance, many people still hesitate to seek help due to societal pressures and misconceptions. This blog post aims to break the silence surrounding mental health and offer a clearer understanding of what therapy entails. The Importance of Mental Health Mental health is a vital part of our overall well-being. It impacts how we think, feel, and act t
christinawood1977
Nov 44 min read
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