Candace Carter, LPC

07/14/2026

The mother and father wounds describe emotional patterns that form through our early relationships with caregivers. The mother wound comes from the relationship with the mother or mother figure and reflects how emotional care, comfort, and closeness were experienced. The father wound comes from the relationship with the father or father figure and reflects how protection, guidance, and reliability were experienced. These patterns develop in childhood and often influence how we relate to others and ourselves later on. Most people carry aspects of both though one pattern usually becomes dominant under stress.

Here’s some info on how they form, their lasting impact, & how to start healing. 🕊️❤️‍🩹

05/25/2026

The relationship you have with yourself quietly shapes the relationships you build with others. How you speak to yourself influences what you tolerate. How you care for yourself impacts how you allow others to care for you. How safe, valued, and understood you feel within yourself often becomes the blueprint for connection. Healing your relationship with yourself is foundational. When you begin to honor your needs, trust your voice, set healthy boundaries, and move with self-compassion, your relationships often begin to shift too.

05/23/2026

03/24/2026

There are moments when life feels uncertain, but uncertainty does not mean you are unsupported.

Growth is often quiet. Support is often unseen. And love is often felt most deeply in the moments when you choose to keep going.

Your life has meaning.
Your presence matters.
What is meant for you is still unfolding.

Trust that you are being guided, supported, and deeply loved. 💚

Save this as a reminder for the days you need it.

03/15/2026

Healing often involves giving yourself permission to cry. 
   
In Japanese culture, the practice of rui-katsu, or “tear-seeking,” has gained popularity as a therapeutic way to release pent-up emotions and alleviate stress in a society often characterized by high-pressure work environments and emotional restraint and suppression. 
    
Pioneered by figures like Hidefumi Yoshida, known as the “tear teacher,” and Hiroki Terai, rui-katsu involves intentional crying sessions—often in group settings, seminars, or even walking tours—where participants watch poignant films, read heartfelt letters, or engage in discussions to provoke tears, fostering emotional catharsis and a sense of refreshment. 
    
I “prescribe” this to my telehealth patients by integrating it with somatic practices like somatic practices or restorative yoga poses to ground them in the present moment and encourage emotional flow; vagal nerve stimulation techniques such as deep diaphragmatic breathing, humming, vagal nerve stimulation or cold water face immersion to activate the parasympathetic response; and other accessible methods including guided journaling prompts for grief processing, curated playlists of music, all tailored to help their body know that it’s safe to let go and begin to heal.   
                

12/25/2025

Happy Holidays from Integrative Counseling Center! May your days be merry and bright ✨♥️🎄

11/22/2025

With Thanksgiving and Christmas coming up, I want everyone to remember to protect your peace & energy!

11/16/2025

10/20/2025

As the seasons shift, it’s the perfect time to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with yourself. 🫖🔥

These Fall Journal Prompts are designed to help you release what no longer serves you, honor your growth, and plant seeds of intention for what’s next.

Light a candle. Pour a warm drink. Grab your journal…and let your words flow. 🍁🧡