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AMA: Hoarding–10 Reasons to Keep the Things and the Response that May Change the Conversation
Ten reasons to keep our things, or maybe it’s one hundred! We save because of values and we move past resistance by changing our conversation. Have a question about hoarding?…
Read More3 Reasons Why It Feels Scary Letting Go of That
We all tend to acquire things and then hold on to them; letting go is difficult! The difficulty letting go of items is one of the key causes of hoarding.…
Read More3 Things to Look for in a Hoarding Disorder Therapist
The decision to enter therapy for any disorder is a significant one. Yet, many looking for a hoarding disorder therapist have already struggled with shame and embarrassment and possibly even…
Read MoreCollecting, Clutter, and Hoarding: How the Difference May Impact Your Mental Health
It can be challenging to know whether your behaviors or those of a loved one, have moved from normative collecting into something that requires intervention. While many people collect items and others accumulate clutter, the differences between collecting, clutter, and hoarding behaviors are clear.
Read MoreAMA Hoarding: 1 Challenging Question and the Answer You’re Going to Hate
One of the most enjoyable parts of advocacy work is offering website visitors the opportunity to ask me anything about hoarding. Most of the questions submitted come from family members…
Read MoreHybrid Hoarding Disorder Treatment Training Coming Soon!
Lightening the Load Counseling is pleased to offer an upcoming CE training on Monday, October 6, 2025, in Puyallup and online. This 6.0-hour continuing education training, “Clinical Treatment for Hoarding…
Read MoreChallenging stories our brains tell us: Hoarding
Clients frequently express a desire to part with some of their belongings, yet they feel they simply can’t. My clients are intelligent, resilient, and capable individuals. So, what underlies the belief that they can’t let go of their possessions?
The stories their brains tell them.
Read MoreSentimental Hoarding: Won’t I Lose the Memories?
Walking through my home, I look around and survey the displayed items. Penguin salt and pepper shakers that I display each winter because my husband is fond of penguins. Photos…
Read MoreMontana “Save the Date”
You might think you’ve encountered every situation in your practice, but nothing could prepare you for a client who confesses, “I think I have a hoarding problem.” This revelation can…
Read MoreHoarding Disorder: Whose Problem is it Anyway?
One of the most challenging aspects of having a family member or other loved one who hoards is that they often don’t see their relationship with their things and the condition of their house as being problematic. If there is a problem, it is not the person who is acquiring and saving but others’ views of what is happening. At least, that’s how it often plays out.
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