Teresa Quadres
Clinical Social Worker/Therapist -
Caregiving is not for the faint of heart. You may feel like a natural caregiver; you may be in over your head. You may have sought out a caregiving role, or you may have found the role thrust upon you. Maybe you feel fulfilled; maybe burdened. Regardless of the situation, supporting someone who needs care can be confusing, challenging, overwhelming and inspiring in both predictable and unexpected ways. What is it like for you?
Our society is not set up to support caregivers. Systems are complex, resources are limited, and people who have not been through it don’t understand. You might be caring for a parent while you are raising kids and working outside the home, and it’s hard to ask for help. When do you get to take care of yourself?
The biggest risk for caregivers is neglecting their own self care, and yet you may feel guilty for attending to your own needs. It’s complicated!
I know how hard it is to carve out time for yourself, but if this sounds familiar, either in your day-to-day life or on the horizon, it might be time to meet with someone who can help you climb out from under the overwhelm, reclaim your identity and recognize your own needs. It’s not selfish: counseling can give you the support you need to continue supporting someone else.
I’ve worked with patients and families in a health care setting for over 20 years. I know what it takes to care for someone who is aging and ill. I know the toll it can take as well as the growth, connection and satisfaction it can provide. I know that when caregivers have the support they need they can recreate their identities in the midst of tumult, care for themselves while caring for others, and cultivate a sense of wellness and fulfillment under any circumstances. That’s what I hope for you!
I would love the opportunity to help you transform your caregiving experience from one of stress and overwhelm into one of exploration and inspiration. I also provide counseling for people going through a serious illness or other life transition as well as grief counseling. Contact me for a free 15 minute phone consultation so we can see if we are a good fit for each other.
Skills and Expertise
Adjusting to Change / Life Transitions
Aging and Geriatric Issues
Caregiver Issues or Stress
grief
Health Illness and Medical Issues
Loss
Midlife Crisis
Mindfulness based therapy
Stress
Women's issue
Treatment Orientation
Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT)
Feminist
Health/Wellness-based
Humanistic
Mindfulness
Narrative
Self-Compassion
Modality