The Blog

Welcome! This is a blog about manhood, mental health, and personal growth.

Mike Garrison, LPC

A Note on Well-Being from Mike Garrison:

While I share generalized information, insights, and experiences here don’t forget that your journey is unique. These writings do not replace personalized, professional guidance. If something you read here resonates but raises concerns, please reach out to a qualified provider. Your mental, physical, and emotional health matter. Don't wait to get the support you need.

Invest in yourself…you’re worth it!

Welcome to honest conversations about modern manhood...

New Year but No New You (Yet)?
Mike Garrison Mike Garrison

New Year but No New You (Yet)?

As men we often approach New Year’s Resolutions like we're planning a military operation – all or nothing, full steam ahead, no room for error. Failure is not an option. Let's talk about why this matters for your mental health.

Read More
Brick by Brick: Six Quotes to Change Your Perspective
Mike Garrison Mike Garrison

Brick by Brick: Six Quotes to Change Your Perspective

Shift your perspective, overcome fear, and stay motivated. Six curated quotes to help you gain insight on handling struggles and considering different paths forward. These words might just inspire you to think with a fresh perspective.

Read More
How to Move Forward When You’re Feeling Stuck
Mike Garrison Mike Garrison

How to Move Forward When You’re Feeling Stuck

Feeling stuck? This article explores the internal friction we all face when juggling the desire for change with the comfort of familiarity—and offers three powerful mindset shifts to break free.

Read More
A New Year’s Reflection: Embracing Change
Mike Garrison Mike Garrison

A New Year’s Reflection: Embracing Change

Ready to start the new year with a fresh perspective? Explore the universal struggles we all face and the hopeful truth that change is always possible. It’s an inspiring reminder that growth can happen one step at a time.

Read More
Taming Your Inner Critic: How to Challenge the Voice That Holds You Back
Mike Garrison Mike Garrison

Taming Your Inner Critic: How to Challenge the Voice That Holds You Back

Struggling with that harsh voice in your head that constantly points out your flaws and mistakes? You're not alone, and while your inner critic might seem like your worst enemy, it’s actually trying to protect you. In this article, we explore how to challenge your inner critic, cultivate a more supportive inner voice, and transform self-doubt into self-compassion.

Read More
Relationships: The Art of Rupture and Repair
Mike Garrison Mike Garrison

Relationships: The Art of Rupture and Repair

Conflict is a normal part of being human. The real issue arises when the focus is stuck on the ruptures—the things that go wrong—while neglecting the repairs—the ways you make it right. While rupture is inevitable, repair is a choice.

Read More
Shift Your Thinking: Embracing the Growth Mindset
Mike Garrison Mike Garrison

Shift Your Thinking: Embracing the Growth Mindset

Your mindset shapes how you approach nearly everything—your career, relationships, hobbies, and even your health. Imagine you’re learning to play guitar. With a growth mindset, you understand that even Jimi Hendrix didn’t wake up one day shredding solos.

Read More
Stronger Together:  How to Cultivate Secure Attachment in Relationships
Mike Garrison Mike Garrison

Stronger Together: How to Cultivate Secure Attachment in Relationships

Developing a more secure attachment in your relationships is one of the most valuable investments you can make in your emotional well-being. Here’s a quick guide to attachment styles, how they may influence your most important relationships, and practical ways to move toward secure behavior.

Read More
Quiet the Critic, Hear the Hero: Building Self-Compassion
Mike Garrison Mike Garrison

Quiet the Critic, Hear the Hero: Building Self-Compassion

The inner critic and the inner voice are both part of the human experience. But you have the power to decide which one you’ll listen to more often. While the inner critic may never fully disappear, you can quiet its influence by regularly choosing to engage with your inner voice—the voice that empowers, supports, and encourages your growth.

Read More
Healing a Broken Heart: A Guide for Men
Mike Garrison Mike Garrison

Healing a Broken Heart: A Guide for Men

Heartbreak is one of the toughest emotional experiences anyone can go through. As men, we’re often told to “suck it up” and to “get back out there” without acknowledging the hurt. But a broken heart isn't something we can just will away. Healing takes time.

Read More
Why More Men Are Saying ‘Yes’ to Therapy
Mike Garrison Mike Garrison

Why More Men Are Saying ‘Yes’ to Therapy

Historically, men faced a lot of stigma around seeking therapy, as if asking for help meant you were weak or couldn’t handle life’s challenges. But that outdated mindset is finally starting to shift.

Read More
Managing Political Differences with Family and Friends
Mike Garrison Mike Garrison

Managing Political Differences with Family and Friends

Navigating political differences with family and friends doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right approach, you can keep conversations respectful, lighthearted, and enjoyable—even when you don’t see eye to eye.

Read More