Posts by Steve Taus II, M.A. LMFT
A New Year Often Brings Unspoken Pressure
Why Emotional Health Deserves Priority in 2026 The beginning of a new year is often framed as a time for motivation, transformation, and optimism. But for many people—especially those in recovery or navigating mental health challenges—this period can feel overwhelming. Therapy and counseling offer something resolutions cannot: professional support, emotional safety, and sustainable growth. At…
Read MoreNew Year, Same Commitment: Protecting Your Sobriety in 2026
A New Year Can Be a Powerful Test for Sobriety The start of a new year brings hope, momentum, and the feeling of a fresh beginning. For individuals in addiction recovery, however, New Year’s Eve and the weeks that follow can also present one of the most challenging periods of the entire year. Alcohol-centered celebrations,…
Read MoreStaying Sober Through the New Year: Why Community, Therapy, and Support Matter Most on New Year’s Eve
The New Year represents a powerful psychological reset. For many people, it symbolizes hope, renewal, and fresh beginnings. But for individuals in recovery—and for the families who love them—New Year’s Eve can also be one of the most emotionally and socially challenging times of the year. Alcohol-centered celebrations, heightened emotions, unresolved family dynamics, and the…
Read MoreHoliday Triggers Are Real—Don’t Wait. Start Your Recovery Journey Now
The Holidays Can Be Triggering — Don’t Wait. Start Your Recovery Journey Now. If you’re struggling with addiction, relapse concerns, or unhealthy coping patterns, the holiday season can be one of the hardest times of the year. More gatherings, more pressure, more emotional triggers—and more opportunities to fall into old habits. Coastwise Health Recovery Programs…
Read MoreDon’t Wait for the Holidays: Get Counseling Support Now & Start the New Year Strong
Waiting for the Holidays to Feel Better? Get Counseling Support NOW & Have a Strong New Year The holiday season brings joy for many families—but for others, it brings stress, pressure, emotional triggers, or a sense of being overwhelmed. If you’re already feeling the weight of expectations, family dynamics, financial worries, or loneliness, waiting until…
Read MoreNavigating Recovery and Holiday Stress: Staying Grounded and Sober This Thanksgiving Season
How to Stay Grounded and Sober This Holiday Season The holidays can be stressful for those in recovery. Learn how to stay grounded, manage triggers, and protect your sobriety during Thanksgiving and beyond. Explore Coastwise Health’s evidence-based programs designed to help you thrive through the season. The holiday season is often portrayed as a time…
Read MoreKratom and Recovery: Risks, Dangers, and Safer Paths to Healing
Kratom and Recovery: Understanding the Risks and Dangers Discover the truth about kratom and recovery. Learn why some turn to kratom, the dangers it poses, and healthier alternatives for lasting sobriety. Introduction Recovery from addiction is never a straight line. It often comes with difficult choices, setbacks, and temptations. In recent years, one plant-based substance…
Read MoreSouth Bay Addiction Recovery: Local Support & Lasting Healing
Addiction Recovery in the South Bay: Finding Local Support That Lasts The South Bay community is known for its beautiful coastline, vibrant neighborhoods, and strong sense of connection. But like many areas in Southern California, it also faces the reality of substance use challenges. Addiction can affect anyone—regardless of age, background, or lifestyle—and seeking help…
Read MoreBack-to-School Stress? How Parents Can Benefit from Therapy
Back-to-School Stress: Why Parents Need Mental Health Support As summer winds down, many parents feel relief that the hectic schedules, travel, and endless activities are finally over. But as the school year begins, a new wave of stress often takes its place—rising costs of supplies, shifting routines, and the pressure of balancing work, kids, and…
Read MoreSummer Sobriety: Staying Strong Through BBQs, Parties & School Breaks
Summer Sobriety Tips – Stay Strong & Supported with Coastwise Health The Challenge: Summer Temptations and Triggers Summer brings a welcome break from routine, but for those in recovery, it can also bring unexpected pressure. School’s out, social calendars fill up, and BBQ parties often come with alcohol and other triggers. Whether you’re early in…
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