Cristina Mantilla

A Therapist's Perspective on Why Some Reactions Feel Bigger Than the Situation Have you ever reacted more strongly than a situation seemed to warrant? Learn what emotional triggers are, why they happen, and how understanding them can lead to healthier relationships and greater emotional awareness. Sometimes the Present Isn't the Whole Story Have you ever found yourself thinking, "Why did that upset me so much?" Maybe someone's comment stayed with you all day. Perhaps a minor disagreement felt...

A Therapist’s Perspective on Acceptance, Emotional Growth, and Resilience Difficult emotions are a natural part of life. Learn the difference between avoidance and acceptance, and how developing the ability to sit with discomfort can strengthen emotional resilience and well-being. Why Discomfort Feels So Difficult Most of us naturally move away from discomfort. When we feel anxious, we look for reassurance. When we feel sad, we try to distract ourselves. When we feel stressed, we often seek...

A Therapist’s Perspective on Finding Regulation in Everyday Life Emotional regulation doesn't always require a long meditation or a major lifestyle change. Learn how small moments of calm throughout the day can help support your mental health and emotional well-being. Calm Is Often Found in Small Moments When people think about reducing stress, they often imagine needing more time. A long vacation. A full day off. An hour of meditation. While these things can certainly be helpful, emotional...