Dr. Barek Sharif Dr. Barek Sharif

Competition is Therapy

The instinct for survival is woven into the very fabric of human DNA. From the moment we begin life in the womb, we are set against the reality of our eventual end. Innately, we are driven by a deep desire to resist that inevitable outcome. It is this survival instinct that has propelled humans to evolve, adapt, and thrive.

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Dr. Barek Sharif Dr. Barek Sharif

Why Does Therapy Suck for Men?

Well, it shouldn’t, but it sure seems like it does. There are a few things that can make therapy less than ideal for men. Let’s start with the elephant in the room – guys don’t do therapy because they’re “weak” if they do. This is the sentiment that so many people believe, which results in mental health practitioners tailoring therapy specifically for men.

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Dr. Barek Sharif Dr. Barek Sharif

Why People Are Hesitant About Therapy

Despite growing awareness around mental health, many people still feel hesitant to seek therapy. This reluctance can stem from various factors, and understanding these barriers is key to fostering a culture of openness and support.

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Dr. Barek Sharif Dr. Barek Sharif

The Subtle Differences Between Audible and Emotional Loudness

In our daily lives, we often encounter two distinct types of loudness: the audible kind that assaults our ears and the emotional kind that stirs our inner peace. While both can be uncomfortable, they affect us in profoundly different ways.

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Dr. Barek Sharif Dr. Barek Sharif

The “Black Sheep” Is Right

The problem child, the reject, the one who just doesn’t fit in. We see the phenomenon of black sheep throughout society and countless families. What does this mean? As a relational therapist I view the black sheep as a reflection of the system, aka the family.

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Dr. Barek Sharif Dr. Barek Sharif

Embracing Body Neutrality

In today’s society, where the media constantly bombards us with images of “ideal” bodies, many people struggle with body image issues. These issues can lead to low self-esteem, anxiety, and even eating disorders. While body positivity has gained momentum as a movement to counteract these negative influences, there’s another approach that’s gaining traction: body neutrality.

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