Joanne Wieser M.A. LMFT, LMHC. Marriage & Family Therapist

Asperger's blog

2011-09-30T09:11:00.000-07:00

I found a blog Aspie Strategy that shares information with people with Aspergers (http://aspiestrategy.blogspot.com/).

I'm moving as October 17th, 2011

2011-09-30T09:00:00.000-07:00

I will be seeing clients in my new office at 411 N. 3rd St. Suite A3 on October 17th. It is located across the street from Les Swab in Elma. My hours will be the same: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 1PM to 7PM and Friday varies in times but my last appointment is 4PM. I raised my rates as August 1st 2011 to $125.00 for my first session and $100.00 after.

spring cleaning your marriage

2011-03-15T20:14:00.000-07:00

This is from a current Smart Marriages e-mail.

SPRING CLEAN YOUR MARRIAGE
WZZM-13/ABC, Michigan
March 15, 2011
(Here’s a concept “spring cleaning for your marriage” you can use in classes next week as spring sprouts. Make up your own list, there are so many ways to clean out and tidy up a marriage. - d)

Spring is a time for review, rebirth, refreshing, and renewal. Our relationships should be no exception to the healthy rituals people undertake in Spring - assessing the state of the union, so-to-speak, to determine areas that need refining and improvement.

Here are some tips based on the couples' research about what works and what doesn't between couples and for really moving your relationship forward, to prevent distress and divorce in your marriage. You can find more about this topic in John Gottman's book, "Why Marriages Succeed or Fail."

1.) Calm down & take space (to prevent escalating fights) - research says you will not have a productive conversation if you are physically aroused.
2.) Talk, not Text - people are getting in to trouble in their relationships by emailing and texting about important issues. Its like they've forgotten how to talk!
3.) Validate & Apologize - Empathy must be expressed and felt on both ends.
4.) Plan for prevention - Brainstorm and develop a plan to prevent spinning your wheels - going through the same fight, another day, by trying out various solutions to the part you got stuck with.

Low Cost Anger Management

2010-04-28T12:14:00.000-07:00

www.AngerManagementSeminar.com has an online anger management course. It shows it is approved by the courts but I would check first before paying. They also show in person Anger Management courses in Tacoma. The cost for on line is $65 and they have a free anger management evaluation. This may not be approved by the courts. If you are just interested in working on your own anger it maybe worth the time to check it out.

New days and hours of business

2010-04-02T19:12:00.000-07:00

My new days and hours of business are:
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday I am open 1PM to 7PM
Tuesday my office is closed
Friday my hours are 9 AM to 5 PM

If you have any questions, please contact me 360-861-8184

New Hours 2010

2010-02-14T19:23:00.001-08:00

My new hours are: Monday thru Thursday 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM and Fridays 9:00 AM to 5 PM. I am closed 12:00 to 1:00 PM.

Valentine Quote

2010-02-14T19:17:00.000-08:00

The Time is Now: If you are ever going to love me, Love me now, while I can
> know The sweet and tender feelings Which from true affection flow. Love me now
> While I am living. Do not wait until I'm gone And then have it chiseled in
> marble, Sweet words on ice-cold stone. If you have tender thoughts of me,
> Please tell me now. - Unknown

Valentines Day

2010-02-14T19:16:00.000-08:00

> On Valentine's Day
> >
> > An old man got on a bus one February 14th, carrying a dozen
> > roses. He sat beside a young man. The young man looked at
> > the roses and said, "Somebody's going to get a beautiful
> > Valentine's Day gift."
> >
> > "Yes," said the old man.
> >
> > A few minutes went by and the old man noticed that his young
> > companion was staring at the roses. "Do you have a
> > girlfriend?" the old man asked.
> >
> > "I do," said the young man. "I'm going to see her right
> > now, and I'm going to give her this Valentine's Day card."
> >
> > They rode in silence for another 10 minutes, and then the
> > old man got up to get off the bus. As he stepped out into
> > the aisle, he suddenly placed the roses on the young man's
> > lap and said, "I think my wife would want you to have these.
> > I'll tell her that I gave them to you."
> >
> > He left the bus quickly. As the bus pulled away, the young
> > man turned to see the old man enter the gates of a cemetery.

December Newsletter 2009

2009-12-19T16:01:00.000-08:00

Christmas Newsletter 2009
Joanne Wieser, MA, LMFT, LMHC
PO Box 133 Elma, WA 98541
360-861-8184 or 360-470-3525

• Quote
• Picture
• New individual rate as of 1/1/10
• Visa/MasterCard in January
• My newsletter will be available on my blog
• Movie Review – 2 videos
• Book Review

In ordinary life we hardly realize that we receive a great deal more than we give, and that it is only with gratitude that life becomes rich. -Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Picture of my grandson Aaron taken by his mother Melinda Tuttle/Melinda Tuttle Photography (melindatuttlephotography.com)

My new individual rate will be $90.00 per hour starting January 1st 2009.

I plan to offer Visa/MasterCard as a payment option starting January 1st 2009.

I will be posting my newsletters on my blog to save paper and postage. Please check my blog after the 15th of the month joannewieser.blogspot.com for past and current newsletters.

“Seven Pounds” questioned self forgiveness. I believe this would be an interesting video to watch along with reading the book “The Shack” or “Change of Heart”. The video looks at the moral and spiritual dilemmas of forgiveness. The video is very disturbing and thought provoking. I am sure each person watching it will have their own feelings of how it should have ended.

“Revolutionary Road” could be disturbing to a parent who has lost a child or had an abortion or lost their mother early in life. The couples arguing reminded me of Dr. John Gottman’s 4 Horseman as the couple depicted all 4 in their dance of anger. The video includes scenes of infidelity, domestic violence, chain smoking and drinking. Many of these images could be disturbing. The wife/mother’s behavior toward her daughter could bring up past abuses.

I believe both movies have their merit and I would watch both of them again.

“Just Do It” is about the journey of a young couple with 2 children taking on a quest to have sex 100 days. It has some funny moments and some enlightening information. I think every couple should read it.

November 2009 Newsletter

2009-12-03T11:52:00.000-08:00

East County Counseling Services

Joanne Wieser, MA, LMFT, LMHC
PO Box 133
Elma, WA 98541
360-861-8184 /360-370-3525
joannewieser.com/joannewieser.blogspot.com

To be without some of the things you want is an indispensable part of happiness.

-Bertrand Russell

• Vacation
• Newsletter
• Waiting Room
• Lori’s Open House
• Raising Rates as of January 1st 2010
• Custody Clarification
• Pre-marital and post divorce counseling
• Gratitude
• Visa/Mastercard

I will be on vacation the week of Thanksgiving and the week between Christmas and New Years. I will be available for emergencies by calling my office telephone number or cell number.

If you do not want to receive a copy of my newsletter just send me a quick e-mail stating you want your name off the e-mail list.

I am sharing a waiting room with Dr. Lori Wieser. The waiting room is across the hall from me and next to Dr. Wieser’s office. A sign will be posted on the door. Lori or I will greet you in the waiting room.

Dr. Lori Wieser’s Open House is Saturday, November 21st from 3-5 PM. She will be there to answer any of questions about Naturopathic Medicine. 304 West Main, Suite 3, Elma, WA 98541

I will be raising my individual rate to $90.00 per hour as of January 1st, 2010. If you have any questions please contact me at my office or cell number.

If your child is seeing me I have a letter explaining my role and limitation. I will be asking you to sign the letter at your next session.

I offer pre marital counseling and post divorce counseling. I am not a custody evaluator and I do not conduct custody or visitation evaluations.

Expressing gratitude everyday can help increase good mental health and feelings of happiness. Writing a list of 5 things or people you are grateful for increases feelings of good will. I am challenging you to journal for a week on the back of the newsletter your gratitude. I believe this would be a great exercise to share with family and friends as a Thanksgiving activity. Before the meal ask each person to write and share a list of 5 things or people they are grateful for. I wish all of you a happy and peaceful Thanksgiving.

I will have Visa/Mastercard for your convenience in January

Lori's Open House

2009-10-27T21:50:00.000-07:00

Natural Healing Family Medicine

Lori Wieser, ND
304 West Main, Suite 3
PO Box 1947
Elma, WA 98541
Ph:360-861-8131 Fx:360-861-8135
loriwieser@yahoo.com
www.naturalhealingfamilymedicine.com

GRAND OPENING
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21ST 3PM TO 5PM

Please join me for the Grand Opening of Natural Healing Family Medicine and learn how Natural Medicine can change your life!

Open Mon, Wed, Thurs, Fri. 10AM to 6PM
Tues. 10AM to 3PM

Call for an appointment
Free 15 minutes consultation

Accepted by most private insurances, check my website for details

Accepting Visa and Mastercard

October 2009 Newsletter

2009-10-27T21:49:00.000-07:00

October 2009 Newsletter
East County Counseling Service
Joanne Wieser, MA, LMFT, LMHC
PO Box 133
Elma, WA 98541
360-861-8184 or 360-470-3525

You've got to get up every morning with a smile on your face,
And show the world all the love in your heart,
Then people gonna treat you better.
You're gonna find, yes, you will,
That you're beautiful as you feel.
--Carole King

• Saving paper and stamps
• Mark Reed Health Fair, Saturday, October 10th 10AM to 3PM
• Grays Harbor County had 27th highest county divorce rate nationwide
• Finding Balance
• Returning books and video
• Book for the month, Your Anxious Child by John S. Dacey
• Video of the month “Marley and Me” rated PG
• Check out my blog: joannewieser.blogspot.com for my old newsletter
• Dr. Lori’s open house, Saturday, November 21st 3PM to 5PM. Check out the back of newsletter for more info.

I am again requesting that patients/clients pay their co payment at each and every session due to the cost of stamps and the time it takes to mail out statements. Some people pay ahead and then forget if they paid for the session and I end up having to bill so please pay each time. I will be offering payment by Visa/Master Charge by January. Also, if you would like my newsletter mailed to you please let me know or I can have a copy ready for you at your session. If you would like it e-mailed please give me your e-mail address. I will post my newsletter on my blog by the 20th of the month at joannewieser.bogspot.com.

Mark Reed Hospital had a Health Fair on Saturday, October 10th at the GH Fairgrounds. They had free bicycle helmets for the kids (my grandson is enjoying his) a helicopter and ambulance. They offered blood testing, health checks, foot massages, great door prizes and all for FREE. I enjoyed my free 5 minutes massage thanks to Crystal Weld, LMP (her office is next to mine). Since everything was free it made it all so much better. If you missed this year contact Mark Reed Hospital for next years date.

Check out “The Daily World” Aberdeen headlines for September 24th: Harbor divorce rate one of the highest. As a married woman and a counselor this statistic is staggering to think of number of people who will be affected by these divorces. I would like to help stop the trend by offering counseling at a reduced price. If you are interested in premarital or marital counseling I am offering a package price of 5 – 1 hour sessions of premarital counseling or marital counseling for $400.00. If you know a couple that is planning to wed this would be a great investment into their future. If you are couple planning to separate due to conflict this may help you to learn how to deal with conflict and improve your communicate.

Each night before going to bed, write down a list of 10 good things that happened that day. Each morning, write a list of 5 positive goals for the day.

I still have a number of books and videos that I have loaned out that have not been returned. I have couples and individuals waiting for the videos. Even if you do not plan to come back to see me please return them to my office. I am usually at my office at least once a day and you can place them in front of my door. Thanks in advance.

This is the book I donated for the raffle at the Health Fair. Your Anxious Child defines anxiety check out pg13 and talks about how anxiety is different at different ages and stages. What we know is that anxious children are more likely to become depressed. What is great about this book is that it has many games, activities, and exercises that you can do with your child at home. The activities are for ages 5 up to age 17 but they give instructions for younger children; appendix A has a list of the activities and their goals. They authors talk about their method “COPE’ to help children with anxiety problems, page 21.

Marley and Me is a true story of a real couple that had to learn not to give up on their dog and their marriage. It’s a family movie about the reality of being a father, husband, wife, and mother. The couple learned that having a pet means sacrifices just like having children and as parents they had to learn to love each of their children for whom they are. It’s a funny movie that is tearful at the end. It shows how the family dealt with the grief of losing someone they love. I think the best part is after the birth of their second child and they had to recommit to their marriage.

Please check out my blog for old newsletters. I have a number of websites sited for you to check out plus videos and books.

My daughter, Dr. Lori Wieser, ND “Natural Healing Family Medicine” is having her open house at her office on Saturday, November 21st from 3PM to 5PM. I will also have my office open and be there to say hello. She is offering samples of vitamins and nutritious refreshments. The open house if for all family members to attend hope you can make it.

Harbor divorce rate one of the highest

2009-09-25T20:05:00.000-07:00

Headlines from The Daily World, Aberdeen, WA. Grays Harbor has the 27th highest divorce rate in the nation. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist the statistics are shocking. Hopefully couples will try counseling before giving up on their marriage. If you are thinking of divorce I am encouraging you to contact me.

September 2009 Newsletter

2009-09-25T19:58:00.000-07:00

September 2009 Newsletter
East County Counseling Services
Joanne Wieser, MA, LMFT, LMHC
PO Box 133
Elma, WA 98541
360-861-8184 or 360-470-3525
joannewieser.com

 Custody, visitation, and AAMFT code of ethics
 Changes in new privilege law & disclosure statement
 Court
 New business cards & brochures
 Check out my website
 September Awareness Dates
 Videos for September
 Check out Dr. Lori’s letter on back

All beginnings require that you unlock a new door.-Rabbi Nachman of Bratslav
Some of you have asked me to see your children while you are in conflict with ex partners over visitation and custody. I hope the AAMFT code of ethics will help you to understand why I cannot help you with forensic evaluations as to custody or visitation in your court case. I can give you a list of therapists that may be able to help you. When you call a therapist inform them of what you need so you do not have to pay costs for services that you cannot use.
AAMFT code of ethics: 3.14 To avoid a conflict of interests, marriage and family therapists who treat minors or adults involved in custody or visitation actions may not also perform forensic evaluations for custody, residence, or visitation of the minor. The marriage and family therapist who treats the minor may provide the court or mental health professional performing the evaluation with information about the minor from the marriage and family therapist’s perspective as a treating marriage and family therapist, so long as the marriage and family therapist does not violate confidentiality.
As part of my normal business practice I do not testify in court for my clients. If this is a service you believe you need please let me know as I will give you names of therapists that may help with that service. Again, I am sorry if this has caused you any inconvenience. Please read above and below. The new law has only 5 exceptions that will legally permit me to use or disclose your health information.
The new privacy law RCW 5.60.06 (9) granting counselors/therapists privilege went into affect July 2009. Due to the new privilege privacy law I will be asking all my current clients/patients to sign a privacy statement with the new wording of the law.
Coming soon: my new business cards and brochures (check out my new picture in my brochure) with my new business name.
Check out my website: www.joannewieser.com. I have a new picture taken by my daughter who is a photographer. You can check more pictures on her website: melindatuttlephotography.com.
September 1-30 National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month. www.recoverymonth.gov and www.info@samhsa.gov
September 6-12 National Suicide Prevention Week. www.suicidology.org and www. info@suicidology.org
September 21 World Alzheimer’s Day www.alz.couk/adi/wad and www.info@alz.co.uk

The movie “The Soloist” and starring Jamie Foxx and Robert Downing Jr unfolds about the unlikely friendship between a columnist and schizophrenic homeless musician that lives on the streets. I believe it clearly depicts the life of homeless people but also how people in good faith try to change others instead of accepting people for who they are. The movie didn’t receive great reviews but if you have a family member or friend who is mentally ill this is worth watching.

New Name of business

2009-08-30T20:30:00.001-07:00

My new business name: East County Counseling Services. My phone number and business address is the same.

Updated Website

2009-08-30T20:28:00.000-07:00

Check out my new picture and updated Website. You can see more picture of me by visiting melindatuttlephotography.com

Time Management for Quality Care

2009-08-05T10:12:00.000-07:00

Time Management for Quality Care

As the summer transitions into fall my time will be more at a premium due to more clients scheduling. I want to give all of my clients the best in quality time as possible so please read below and give me feedback if you have any questions or concerns.

• Since I do not have a waiting room I am encouraging all of you to arrive as close to the appointment time as possible. I schedule my session for 60 minutes if you arrive early please wait until the appointed to come into my office.

• I will be asking for your insurance co payment and assigned homework at the beginning of the session. If you plan to pay with a check please have it ready before you come in or make out your check at the beginning of the session. If you choose to not do your assigned homework please let me know why you feel it is not appropriate.

• I will start winding down the session 10 minutes before the hour is up so that if you feel you have another issue that you would like to work on you can schedule another session or write about your concerns and later mail or e-mail me your thoughts.

• If you need a court report or CPS report please let me know at the beginning of the session. I will write it during the session so you can take it with you or I can fax it the court or social worker.

I hope these suggestions will help us create the best quality time possible for your sessions. I want to help you to reach your goals by giving you the best customer service possible.

August 2009 Newsletter

2009-08-01T17:20:00.000-07:00

East County Counseling Services
Joanne Wieser, MA, LMFT, LMHC
PO Box 133
Elma, WA 98541
Website: joannewieser.com
Blog: joannewieser.blogspot.com

Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy.-Thich Nhat Hanh

• NEW NAME
• NEW individual rate starting August 1st
• Reminder about appointment cancellations
• Books, videos, etc
• Marriage Movies
• Dr. Lori Wieser, Naturopathic Physician

• My business has a new name “East County Counseling Services”. You will be seeing my new name on my business cards, brochures, and letterhead in the near future.
• Reminder my new individual rate of $85.00 starts August 1st. If you have any questions please contact me.
• I am taking inventory of all my books and video and materials. If you still have materials out please return them as soon as possible. After August 1st all books and videos can only be checked out for 3 weeks after that time you will be charged the full amount of replacing the item.
• Rent and watch with your honey; recommend them to your married kids: The Story of Us, The Notebook, Family Man, Match Point, Away from Her, Groundhog Day, Knocked Up, Housesitter, Moonstruck, The Incredibles, Breaking Away, Arranged, My Life
• I am proud to announce that my daughter, Dr. Lori Wieser, Naturopathic Physician, will be opening her Elma office on September 1st across the hall from me. As you walk down the hall you will notice the bright orange flowers in her window. She will have brochures and business cards available outside her door. To schedule an appointment or just to reach her please call
360-402-4943.

Divorce

2009-06-24T19:29:00.000-07:00

If you would like to view the 10 Top Myths about Divorce the website is at the end of the quotes. This is in response to Jon and Kate + 8.>

Marriages of the children of divorce have a much higher rate of divorce than
> > the marriages of children from intact families. A major reason for this . .
> > is that children learn about marital commitment or permanence by observing
> > their parents. In the children of divorce, the sense of commitment to a
> > lifelong marriage has been undermined. - 10 Myths of Divorce, National
> > Marriage Project

And, as Jon kept saying....I'm only 32, I don't know what's coming. We KNOW
what's coming Jon & Stepmother Plus Eight......

> > And, when it comes to the kids, it's not just single unwed mothers whose kids
> > struggle. "Most researchers reported that STEPCHILDREN were similar to
> > children living with single mothers on the preponderance of outcome measures
> > and that stepchildren were at greater risk for problems than were children
> > living with both of their married parents." - The Journal of Marriage and
> > Family

Lots of resources here Before you Divorce, like these:

> > Each divorce is the death of a small civilization.
> > Pat Conroy

> > Bad marriages don't cause infidelity; infidelity causes bad marriages.
> > Frank Pittman

> > Our research estimates that 55-60% of marriages that end in divorce fall into
> > the category of "good enough marriages". These marriages appear to be
> > functioning well only a year or so prior to the divorce. From a child's
> > perspective, these divorce are unexpected, inexplicable, and unwelcome and are
> > thus most likely to harm children. These marriages are significantly more
> > likely to divorce because of infidelity, citing explanations of "drifting
> > apart" or "communication problems". They are unlikely to mention abuse because
> > these were not highly conflicted marriages. - Paul Amato, Smart Marriages
> > keynote

> > Money often costs too much.
> > Ralph Waldo Emerson

> > Divorce causes a decrease in wealth that is larger than just splitting a
> > couple¹s assets in half. Divorce drops a person's wealth by an average of 77%.
> > And, contrary to popular belief, the research shows that the wealth status of
> > divorced men wasn¹t significantly better than that of divorced women, in terms
> > of real money. Divorce devastates your wealth. By the same token, married
> > people see an increase in wealth that is more than just adding the assets of
> > two single people. If you really want to increase your wealth, get married and
> > stay married. - Jay Zagorsky, Ohio State, Journal of Sociology, Jan 2006

> > The Top Ten Myths of Divorce - by David Popenoe
> > http://marriage.rutgers.edu/Publications/pubtoptenmyths.htm

Father's Day

2009-06-23T20:14:00.001-07:00

I know I am late with this post. I hope you enjoy.

- FATHER'S DAY QUOTES
Make your own card. Delight him with one of these. I think my favorite is
the one by Homer Simpson. - diane

It is much easier to become a father than to be one. - Kent Nerburn

What makes you a man is not the ability to have a child - it's the courage
to raise one. . . . Of all the rocks upon which we build our lives, we are
reminded today that family is the most important. And we are called to
recognize and honor how critical every father is to that foundation.
President Barack Obama

I don't care how poor a man is; if he has family, he's rich. - M*A*S*H,
Colonel Potter

I talk and talk and talk, and I haven't taught people in 50 years what my
father taught by example in one week. -- Mario Cuomo

I watched a small man with thick calluses on both hands work fifteen and
sixteen hours a day. I saw him once literally bleed from the bottoms of his
feet, a man who came here uneducated, alone, unable to speak the language,
who taught me all I needed to know about faith and hard work by the simple
eloquence of his example. -- Mario Cuomo

A father is a guy who has snapshots in his wallet where his money used to
be. - Unknown

A man's children and his garden both reflect the amount of weeding done
during the growing season. - Anonymous

. . . in the end, there is nothing a man can do that a woman can't, except
be a father.
Frank Pittman

I cannot think of any need in childhood as strong as the need for a father's
protection. - Sigmond Freud

A king, realizing his incompetence, can either delegate or abdicate his
duties. A father can do neither. If only sons could see the paradox, they
would understand the dilemma. - Marlene Dietrich

If the past cannot teach the present and the father cannot teach the son,
then history need not have bothered to go on, and the world has wasted a
great deal of time. - Russell Hoban

My father died many years ago, and yet when something special happens to me,
I talk to him secretly not really knowing whether he hears, but it makes me
feel better to half believe it.-- Natasha Josefowitz

A man knows when he is growing old because he begins to look like his
father. - Gabriel García Márquez

Are we not like two volumes of one book? - Marceline Desbordes-Valmore

Small boy's definition of Father's Day: It's just like Mother's Day only you
don't spend so much. -- Unknown

It is instructive that 87 percent of those incarcerated in American prisons
either don't know who their father is or have not had any contact with their
fathers in years. - Herbert London, Hudson Institute

"I won't lie to you, fatherhood isn't easy like motherhood." – Homer
Simpson

You don't get hugged by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. . . I want what
everybody else wants: to love and to be loved, and to have a family.
Billy Joe
-------------------------------------------ow I am late with this posting. I thought the quotes were cute.

Divorce Prevention Handbook

2009-06-23T20:11:00.000-07:00

This was on the SmartMarriages e-mail. If you are considering a divorce this maybe helpful to you.

FREE: PDF DIVORCE PREVENTION HANDBOOK

Hi Diane,

³Should I Keep Trying to Work It Out? A Guidebook for Individuals and
Couples at the Crossroads of Divorce (and Before)² is now available. This
self-directed, research-based guidebook was developed by the Utah Healthy
Marriage Initiative for couples at the crossroads of divorce. Some of the
information in it is specific to Utah, which has a mandated divorce
orientation education class for divorcing parents. But overall, the
guidebook is relevant to any individuals in this situation. (We are
considering producing a modified national version of the guidebook next
year.) We will be discussing this resource and supporting project in our
session (with Bill Doherty) at the conference. If you want to alert listserv
members to this resource, it is available in pdf form at utahmarriage.org.
(Click on ³Thinking About Divorce?² and then on ³Should I Keep Trying to
Work It Out?²) Or they can order a hard copy for $8. Note that this is a
beta version. We are now recruiting individuals to use the guidebook and
give us feedback so that we can improve it.

Alan Hawkins, Ph.D.
Professor of Family Life
Brigham Young University
hawkinsa@byu.edu

I've also got the free download pdf posted at SmartMarriages.com - once from
the FREE STUFF page and once from the THINKING ABOUT DIVORCE PAGE. -d

> > 716 - Sat July 11, Orlando workshop
> > It's Never Too Late: The Crossroads of Divorce
> > Bill Doherty, PhD, Alan Hawkins, PhD, Tamara Frackrell, JD
> > Learn the lessons from two innovative approaches that work at reconciliation
> > with couples who have already filed for divorce using education, team, and
> > community-based supports.

Two of Us. org

2009-02-26T18:29:00.000-08:00

I checked out the website Two of Us.org It has a number of blogs for couples thinking about or planning marriage. If you are starting the process of wedding plans this maybe a website check out.

The Shack

2009-02-26T18:24:00.000-08:00

My book club picked "The Shack" for our book for January. The book gives a different religious view of God and the Trinity. We were all touched by the story. What we talked about most was how the author presented being judgemental and forgiveness. It is an easy book to read but I think it takes a second reading to digest. If you get a chance to read it let me know how it affected you.

Poem of Reflection

2009-01-05T15:15:00.000-08:00

"A New Story of Your Life"
by Michael Blumenthal
Say you finally invented a new story
of your life. It is not the story of your defeat
or of your impotence and powerlessness
before the large forces of wind and accident.
It is not the sad story of your mother's death
or of your abandoned childhood. It is not,
even, a story that will win you the deep
initial sympathies of the benevolent goddesses
or the care of the generous, but it is a story
that requires of you a large thrust
into the difficult life, a sense of plenitude
entirely your own. Whatever the story is,
it goes as it goes, and there are vicissitudes
in it, gardens that need to be planted,
skills sown, the long hard labors
of prose and enduring love. Deep down
in some long-encumbered self,
it is the story you have been writing
all of your life, where no Calypso holds you
against your own willfulness,
where you can rise
from the bleak island of your old story
and tread your way home.

Happy & Healthy New Year

2009-01-03T17:30:00.000-08:00

I found this going through my old documents. It seems to fit today as much as it did years ago when I wrote it. A mother never expects their child will be an alcoholic or be a victim of an alcohol accident. I hope it will help someone who is wondering if they or someone they love is an alcoholic.

I know most of you will think I am preaching but I need to get this off my chest because I love all of you too much. I just watched on Dateline the story of a woman who drove drunk and killed 2 people. As an alcohol and drug counselor this is old news but as a mother I never want this to happen to you. Either as a drunk driver or killed /injured by a drunk driver.

One of the ingrained ideas of alcoholics is that they believe they are not drinking that much. This is part of the disease and the alcohol. The alcohol screws up a person’s judgment and they just keep drinking.

There are a few warning signs of alcoholism. These do not mean a person is an alcoholic but it means if they are not yet they will be:
They continue drinking after 2 or 3 drinks. (after the buzz)
They gulp drinks. (to get the high, drunk faster)
They can’t leave ½ a drink or half a bottle (they drink until it’s all gone)
They have blackouts (they don’t remember what they did or how many drinks they had or how they got home)
They get into fights/arguments with people who try to take their keys away or tell them to slow down on their drinking.
They only feel normal after a few drinks.
They drink to change their mood (sad, tired, angry, etc) or say I deserve to drink.
They only hang out with people who drink to excess.
They binge drink (drink once a week or even less) but to intoxication.
People (friends & family) don’t want to drink with them anymore due to their obnoxious behavior.
People make fun of them (laugh behind their backs) when they drink.
People get mad because they have to take care of them when they drink.
They don’t see their behavior as negative or life threatening.
They lie to themselves and everyone else about how much they drink.
They encourage others to drink like them (even loved ones) by mixing their drinks stronger than necessary.
They say to themselves “I work every day, pay my bills, I can’t be a drunk” and then make an ass of themselves or drive drunk or get into fights or pass out.

Alcoholism runs in my family and all my children are at risk. I have seen all of the above in my own family and I never want this for my children. I know all of you are adults and can make your own decisions but if you fit any of the description above- get help because I love you.

I hope I did not offend anyone but if it helps any of you it was worth it. I just hope I’m not too late. Love, Mom

New Office Hours

2009-01-03T13:51:00.000-08:00

After of year and half of offering unlimited hours I now have an idea of when most of you will need appointment times. If you need a specific day and time please let know I will try to work your needs into my schedule.

The evening appointments are the most requested so it is very important to keep those appointments and if you can't make the appointment time to call at least 24 hours in advance as I usually have a waiting list for those times.

Mondays: 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Tuesdays: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (closed for lunch 12 to 1)
Wednesdays: 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Thursdays: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (closed for lunch 12 to 1)
Fridays: 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM

If you have any questions, please contact me at 360-861-8184

My Updated Website

2008-12-22T16:01:00.001-08:00

You can view my website at joannewieser.com

Updated Website

2008-12-19T16:23:00.000-08:00

I have updated my website to link to my past and current newsletters. They are on a pdf file so you can print them or just read them. I have also included my Application for Services under forms. If you are interested in meeting with me you can fill out the form and send it to me at PO Box 133, Elma, WA 98541.

In the Dog House

2008-12-06T11:08:00.003-08:00

Check out melindatuttle.blogspot.com for a a funny video "In the Dog House". Very cute.

Today's Gift

2008-12-06T10:08:00.000-08:00

This is a daily affirmation for people in recovery from Hazalden.
This is the one for today. To sign up for Today's Gift, visit:http://www.hazelden.org/register

Peace is a daily, a weekly, a monthly process, gradually changing opinions, slowly eroding old barriers, and quietly building new structures. --John F. Kennedy

Daily Motivational Quote

2008-12-05T16:28:00.000-08:00

I came across a new daily power quote for woman. www.powerlinesforwomen.com. Each day is a quote or a story for inspiration.

How to Say It

2008-12-03T10:14:00.000-08:00

I found a great book for therapists, parents, and anyone working with children "How to Say It" KIDS. I bought the book at Costco for $9.99. The first part is for kids and the second half of the book is for teens. The contents is in alphabetical order starting with adoption and each subject is only 3 pages. It is easy to read and tells the adult what to say and what not to say. The introduction gives a short "Smart Talk: The six ways we speak to our kids" which can be helpful. During this holiday season if you are looking for a gift to give to parents of children this would be a good resource. Let me know what you think.

Blessings

2008-11-25T08:44:00.000-08:00

This is from a Brian Post, PhD. I enjoyed both videos. The first one is about attachment and trauma. The second one is very cute. Happy Holidays. Joanne
Hello Joanne,Happy Thanksgiving.I hope that you are looking forward to spending the Holiday with friends and family and experiencing The blessing of love.This year we find ourselves thankful for the blessings of health, the love of family, the love of our new friends in Virginia, the love we carry from our old friends in Oklahoma, and the love you share with us across the globe. We are thankful for the blessings of trials which have lead us to improve ourselves, and we are thankful for each day that we strive to walk in love.We hope that you can take a moment to reflect On those things which make you smile, which make You laugh, and which make you cry. That you are Able to find the blessings in all that life offers.We are including a couple of links that we thought You would enjoy. Make sure you have your speakers On to listen, learn, and be inspired!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=530BU051n0A
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aMBgSfQI49E

Bucket List

2008-11-16T08:36:00.000-08:00

Like most of you I am planning Thanksgiving festivities. Since I am having Thanksgiving Dinner at my house I like to have an activity that gets everyone involved. This year I plan to show the video "The Bucket List" and then ask everyone to write their own bucket list and share at the dinner table. I think everyone has wishes and dreams for the future. It will be fun to find out what everyone wants to do before they die. It may sound a little sad but I hope it is inspiring. Sometimes not achieving a goal can be more depressing than getting old. Hope all your festivities are fun and relaxing.

Winter Newsletter 2008

2008-11-10T20:33:00.000-08:00

My "Winter Newsletter 2008" will be out in a few weeks. If anyone is interested in receiving a copy please let me know. I will mail you a copy. I will have my website back up by December 1st. It will be new and improved.

My Areas of Specialties

2008-06-13T10:21:00.000-07:00

I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, and National Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor located in Elma, WA.

I specialize in relationship issues, Marriage & Family Problems, Couples Communication, Parenting issues, Adolescent behaviors, alcohol and drug addiction, Internet addiction.

I use a number of methods of therapy but my main focuses of helping individuals are Family Systems and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. My other methods include meditation, guided imagery, spiritual work, art therapy and phototherapy.

I can help with conflict resolution, stress management, depression management, family of origin issues, co-dependency issues, and anger management.

The services I offer are family therapy, couples therapy, child & adolescent therapy, individual therapy, retreats, workshops, and parenting education.

My fee is $112.50 for the first session and $75.00 per hour for additional sessions. I offer a free 30 minute initial session. I am accepted by a number of insurance companies.

Contact for additional information at 360-861-8184 or 360-470-3525. My Business address is: 304 West Main, Suite 6, Elma, WA. My e-mail address is: joannewieser@comcast.net