Blog
This blog offers support, education, and encouragement from Michaela Zoppa, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado Springs. You’ll find mental health articles with practical resources, thoughtful insights, and compassionate guidance to help improve your well-being and navigate anxiety, burnout, and trauma. My goal is to share information that feels empowering, authentic, hopeful, and truly helpful in your healing journey.
Therapist-Approved Gift Ideas
Looking for gifts that go beyond “stuff”? Check out these therapist-approved gift ideas that promote self-care, relaxation, and meaningful experiences—plus options that support Colorado Springs local businesses.
Why Longer Therapy Sessions Can Help You Heal More Deeply
Many people leave a standard 50-minute therapy session feeling like they were just getting to the heart of their work. Longer therapy sessions provide extra time for deeper emotional processing, breakthroughs, and trauma-sensitive support, helping you make real progress in your healing journey.
Trauma-Informed vs. Trauma-Focused Therapy: Understanding the Difference
Not all therapists approach trauma the same way. This post explains the difference between trauma-informed care and trauma-focused therapy and highlights evidence-based approaches like EMDR, CPT, and IFS.
What is Complex Trauma? Signs, Symptoms, & Trauma Therapy in Colorado Springs
Complex trauma develops from long-term, repeated experiences of neglect, abuse, or instability. It can deeply affect your sense of self, relationships, and daily life. Learn the signs of complex trauma and how trauma therapy can help you heal.
10 Common Myths About EMDR Therapy
EMDR therapy is powerful, but it’s often misunderstood. In this post, we break down 10 common myths about how EMDR works—and what you really need to know before getting started.
What is EMDR Therapy?
If you’ve done all the “right” things and still feel stuck, EMDR therapy can help your brain and body finally process what’s been holding you back. Here’s what EMDR therapy is, and how it can help you heal.
What is Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy?
IFS therapy helps you understand the different “parts” within you—like the perfectionist, the people-pleaser, or the inner critic—and build a compassionate relationship with them. This post explains what parts are, how they develop, and how IFS can support healing from anxiety, trauma, and burnout.
Gaslighting: What Is It, Really? (And What It’s Not)
Gaslighting has become a widely used term, but it’s often misunderstood. Let’s talk about what gaslighting really is, what it’s not, and how to recognize the signs. Whether you’ve experienced it firsthand or are trying to support someone who has, this guide offers clarity, examples, and support.