
First and foremost, I am proud of you. Starting counseling no matter what takes bravery. It can be very difficult for people to seek help for a variety of reasons. This can be related to a lack of a support system, cultural or societal norms still stigmatizing mental illness and counseling, lack of…
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If you do not take care of yourself, then no one understands that you need to be cared for. No one can read our minds as to what we need. What does self-care really mean? It is like putting on your oxygen mask before you put your child’s oxygen mask on an airplane….
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Social work chose me at an early age. I was probably “pre-disposed” to being interested in the field of social services as I was adopted soon after birth and was educated by my parents regarding the crucial professionals that helped facilitate that process. My parents also emphasized the importance of the investment of…
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I have always been a bit of a news junky – I feel better being informed about the status of the world. I enjoy politics (or rather am enthralled by them) and watching the news just makes me feel a bit smarter. However, as my children have grown and have come to understand…
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One of the biggest draws for me personally to the work being done at Hopeful Beginnings is the amazing service of free counseling for mothers experiencing post-partum depression and difficulty transitioning to motherhood. Those that know me undoubtedly know that I am a mother to three very active young boys and the road…
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Considerations for Used Baby Items During pregnancy, it is very easy for an expectant mom to feel overwhelmed by all of the options and the expenses for baby items. A mom might wonder how she is going to afford the items or what items might work well even if they have been…
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Types of Counseling: Virtual or In Person Hopeful Beginnings is working in coordination with the CDC guidelines in providing free counseling services for women that we serve. First of all, all of our counseling services are free of charge either virtually or in person. Women now have the choices to pick the type…
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Pregnancy, as much as you want it to happen, there is a sense of shock, disbelief, and the feeling of you may not be ready! These are normal feelings by both you and your partner. You may even think about feeling this is an unplanned pregnancy. Even when you may be involved with…
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Children, Dogs, and Families Is it important for children to have a dog growing up? There are many, many, reasons, both pros and cons. Please understand that my husband and I have 2 cats and 2 dogs at home. We are always busy! Unless you are a seasoned pet owner, I ask you…
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Hopeful Beginnings was known as St. Mary’s. They were mostly known as an adoption agency. As most of you know, adoption numbers are decreasing. We like to spread the word that we have professional social workers to discuss the options of an unplanned pregnancy. We don’t put pressure, nor do we stress women out…
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