In a study by researchers at Penn State, the average person reported “3 to 4 testable worries per day” (Gillihan, 2019). Some feelings of worry can be healthy in that they can push us to discover solutions to problems. For example, some “worry” about one’s health may lead to healthier eating. But chronic worry can take a toll on one’s mental and physical health. Excessive worrying can make individuals more vulnerable to anxiety or depression.

My name is Dr. Ann Gantt. I would like to introduce myself as the new Counseling Supervisor here at New Hope. This is like a second…or should I say third coming for me as I have previously served at New Hope twice. My most recent departure was due to a family tragedy. It was important to me that I took the time that was needed to be alongside my family even more. I recently came across a newspaper clipping that I had held on to for all these years. At the time, I was the counselor sent by Family Service (now Pressley Ridge) through a partnership the agency had with New Hope. Pictured with me were former executive director Ken Zieber (whom I have maintained contact with throughout the years) and Dr. Jim Johnson (counselor sent by Shepherd’s Touch Counseling Ministry, now Upward Call Counseling Services). In the brief time since my return to New Hope, it has been no surprise to me to find the same warm and caring environment that I had left. The compassionate and skilled counselors that are here play a huge role in making that so.

Our minds are powerful tools that we often allow to hide meekly behind our reactionary feelings which can often bully for control. I want to remind you and encourage you that even though you may not be able to control your body, you are ALWAYS able to control what you think and how you act. When you use your brain to help you, you will find that your body response follows more what you think to be true. I know this has been my practice as I wrap up my time with New Hope. I will miss this place and this community, however, “I know that I can be present in very hard situations, and I am excited to be there for struggling parents and their children.”

Have you ever been in conversation with someone and the message you received was “you are not enough?”  Or maybe you hear this in your own mind, a self-narrative that shouts “I messed up,” or “I have nothing to offer,” or possibly “I don’t matter.”  The results of these messages, especially coming from our interpersonal relationships, can truly affect how we feel and act.

Discover why involving adults in child therapy is crucial for success. Learn how to introduce counseling to children, commit to the process, and support your child's emotional growth. New Hope counselors provide expert guidance.

May is Mental Awareness Month. Our goal at New Hope Counseling Center is to take the mystery out of therapy and to be a vehicle to provide hope and restoration. Read our Blog to learn more about the most common myths of mental health.