
Path’s Blog
“The limits of my language mean the limits of my world.”
—Ludwig Wittgenstein
At Path’s Blog, we believe in expanding our minds through thoughtful reflection.
Discover Self-Care Hotspots in Flower Mound, Coppell, Grapevine, and Beyond
Unwind and recharge at some of the best self-care hotspots in Flower Mound, Coppell, Grapevine, and nearby communities. Whether it’s a holistic wellness session at My Body Wellness, a luxurious spa day at World Springs, or a kickboxing workout at 9Round, these local gems offer countless ways to nurture your mind, body, and spirit. Discover how treatments like infrared saunas, PEMF therapy, and rejuvenating facials can complement mental health counseling—especially if you’re exploring our Aetna or cash pay options for therapy. Ready to take the next step in your well-being journey? Our counseling services can guide you toward personalized, sustainable self-care that truly makes a difference in your daily life.
In today’s fast-paced world, carving out time for self-care is essential to maintaining a balanced and healthy lifestyle—both mentally and physically. Whether you’re juggling work commitments, family responsibilities, or personal goals, integrating moments of relaxation can do wonders for your well-being. Fortunately, Flower Mound, Coppell, Grapevine, and surrounding areas offer plenty of incredible spots where you can unwind, recharge, and refocus. Below, we’ve highlighted some of our favorite self-care hotspots—from spa services to wellness centers—that can complement any mental health journey.
Why Self-Care Matters
Self-care isn’t just about pampering yourself; it’s also about building resilience to life’s stressors. Engaging in regular self-care activities helps:
Reduce anxiety and depression
Improve concentration and productivity
Boost overall mood and well-being
Strengthen coping mechanisms for life transitions or challenges
When combined with professional therapy—whether individual or group counseling—self-care can significantly enhance your journey toward better mental health. If you’re in the Flower Mound, Coppell, Grapevine, Southlake, or Las Colinas areas and are curious about Aetna coverage or cash pay options, our counseling services are here to support you.
1. My Body Wellness
Website: mybodywellnesscenter.com
Location & Services
My Body Wellness offers a comprehensive range of holistic treatments that go beyond traditional massage and spa services. Their cutting-edge therapies include Normatec compression therapy, Cryotherapy, PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field) therapy, Kangen water services, infrared sauna, ozone sauna, ionic footbaths, and more. This broad spectrum of therapies aims to support whole-body healing, making My Body Wellness a top choice for those looking to alleviate stress, reduce inflammation, boost recovery, and enhance overall wellness.
Why We Love It
Holistic approaches like these can complement mental health work by addressing both physical tension and emotional stress. Whether you need a deep detox from the infrared sauna, quick recovery through Normatec or Cryotherapy, or a revitalizing session with PEMF, My Body Wellness provides a calm environment to help you feel rejuvenated inside and out.
2. World Springs
Website: worldsprings.com/spa
Location & Services
World Springs takes a luxurious approach to self-care, offering spa treatments, massages, and wellness servicesdesigned to soothe both body and mind. From hot stone massages to refreshing facials, you’ll find a variety of packages catering to different relaxation needs.
Why We Love It
Sometimes, indulging in a spa day is about allowing yourself the space and time to reset. World Springs’ tranquil setting can help foster a sense of peace that supports your emotional well-being—perfect for those seeking a brief escape from daily stresses.
3. Perpetual Glow Skin Spa
Website: perpetualglowskinspa.com
Location & Services
If radiant skin and relaxation are on your to-do list, Perpetual Glow Skin Spa specializes in advanced skincare treatments, including customized facials, dermaplaning, and chemical peels. They focus on enhancing your natural glow while also promoting an inner sense of calm and confidence.
Why We Love It
Skincare can be an act of self-love. Taking a dedicated moment to nurture your skin can boost self-esteem, reduce stress, and serve as a meaningful ritual in your self-care routine.
4. Beloved Massage Services
Website: beloved2.net
Location & Services
Specializing in therapeutic massage with a personalized touch, Beloved Massage Services emphasizes creating a healing environment where you can feel supported and relaxed. Their testimonials highlight the relief clients have found from pain, tension, and stress.
Why We Love It
Massage therapy has been linked to numerous mental and physical health benefits, including better sleep, improved circulation, and reduced anxiety (Hilbert et al., 2003). It’s a wonderful complement to mental health counseling, helping release stress held in the body.
5. 9Round Kickboxing (Highland Village, TX)
Website: 9round.com
Location & Services
9Round is a specialized kickboxing fitness studio in Highland Village offering circuit-based, 30-minute workouts. Their sessions combine cardio, strength training, and elements of martial arts to deliver a high-energy experience.
Why We Love It
Kickboxing and other martial arts can provide significant mental health benefits—from boosting self-confidence to reducing stress (Zarate, 2017). Engaging in high-intensity activities can help clear the mind, release endorphins, and promote a sense of accomplishment. Plus, structured exercises can improve focus, making it a great choice for busy professionals or anyone needing a mood uplift.
Integrating Self-Care with Mental Health Support
While spas, wellness centers, and specialized therapies provide immediate relaxation and comfort, mental health counseling offers long-term strategies for coping with stress, anxiety, grief, and more. Combining self-care with professional support can significantly amplify the benefits of both.
Aetna Coverage & Cash Pay: We work with Aetna and also offer cash pay options to make therapy accessible.
Individual & Group Counseling: Whether you prefer one-on-one sessions or thrive in a community-based setting, our counseling services cater to diverse needs.
Convenient Location: We serve Flower Mound, Coppell, Grapevine, Southlake, and Las Colinas, ensuring you can find the help you need close to home.
Tips for a Balanced Self-Care Routine
Schedule It: Treat self-care as a non-negotiable part of your weekly or monthly calendar.
Experiment: Explore different therapies—from infrared saunas to kickboxing—and find what resonates most with you.
Reflect: Keep a simple journal of how you feel before and after each self-care activity to track its impact on your mood and stress levels.
Pair with Therapy: Discuss your self-care routine with your therapist. They can offer guidance on effectively integrating these activities into your healing process.
Ready to Begin Your Self-Care Journey?
Self-care is more than a buzzword—it’s a powerful way to support your mental and physical health. If you’re in the Flower Mound, Coppell, Grapevine, Southlake, or Las Colinas areas, consider visiting these local gems for massage therapy, spa treatments, kickboxing, or wellness services that offer holistic healing and rejuvenation. And remember, if you’re looking to deepen your path toward overall well-being, our counseling services are here to support you every step of the way.
Contact us today to learn more about Aetna coverage, cash pay options, and how therapy can complement your self-care routine. Together, we can create a personalized plan that helps you thrive—mind, body, and spirit.
References
Hilbert, J. E., Sforzo, G. A., & Swensen, T. (2003). The effects of massage on delayed onset muscle soreness. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 37(1), 72–75.
Chang, P. Y., & Bushman, T. T. (2019). The effects of cryotherapy on muscle recovery: A meta-analysis. Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness, 59(2), 232–239.
Goodwin, T. J. (2003). Physiotherapy via pulsed electromagnetic fields: NASA technical memorandum. NASA.
Fattal, E. (2016). Infrared sauna for human health: A short review. Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine, 13(2), 81–85.
Zarate, M. (2017). The mental health benefits of martial arts-based interventions: A systematic review. Psychology of Sport and Exercise, 28, 118–129.
The Value of Group Therapy in Flower Mound, Coppell, Grapevine, Southlake, and Las Colinas, TX
Group therapy offers a unique sense of community and mutual support that often goes beyond what individual sessions can provide. In our groups, people facing anxiety, depression, grief, and other challenges come together to share experiences, learn coping strategies, and build deeper connections in a confidential setting. Whether you’re located in Flower Mound, Coppell, Grapevine, Southlake, or Las Colinas, this post explains how group therapy—led by trained and ethically grounded therapists—can be both affordable and transformative. Discover how shared wisdom, real-time feedback, and a built-in network of encouragement can amplify your mental wellness journey.
Author: Mikayla Jacob, LCSW-S, LISW, Founder and Director of Clinical Services at Sentient Path PLLC
Date: January 26, 2025
Group Therapy
Group therapy is a powerful tool for mental health support and personal growth. It offers something unique—a sense of community and shared healing—that often goes beyond what one-on-one sessions can provide. If you’re in Flower Mound, Coppell, Grapevine, Southlake, or Las Colinas, Texas, and you’re exploring therapy options—whether you use Aetna insurance or cash pay—this blog explains how group therapy could be a perfect fit for you.
Our Therapists’ Training & Competency
You might wonder: How do I know my therapist is prepared to lead a group? Rest assured, our clinicians are trained in group work methods that come directly from social work education and industry best practices (Toseland & Rivas, 2017). We share this not to overwhelm you with theory, but to assure you that your therapist is qualified and committedto using research-backed methods to support your healing.
What Is Group Therapy?
Group therapy involves a small number of people who share similar challenges or goals, led by a trained mental health professional. Members meet regularly to:
Discuss Experiences: Openly talk about challenges, goals, or personal growth areas.
Offer Support: Gain fresh perspectives and encouragement from peers who truly relate.
Learn Coping Strategies: Practice new skills under the guidance of a professional.
Session Basics
Group Size: Typically 6–10 members, fostering diversity while ensuring everyone can be heard (McRoberts et al., 1998).
Safe Environment: Confidentiality is paramount, allowing open sharing without judgment (American Group Psychotherapy Association [AGPA], 2020).
Key Benefits of Group Therapy
A Sense of Community
Mental health struggles—like anxiety, depression, grief, or relationship challenges—can feel isolating. Group therapy introduces you to people facing similar issues, creating an immediate sense of understanding and belonging (Yalom & Leszcz, 2005).Shared Wisdom & Perspective
Every member brings unique experiences and coping tactics. Hearing how others navigate similar obstacles may spark new ideas or moments of clarity you wouldn’t discover alone (Burlingame et al., 2003).Real-Time Growth Opportunities
Group sessions act like a practice ground for real life. You can experiment with new communication styles or ways of relating and receive immediate feedback from peers who are on a similar journey (Kivlighan & Miles, 2007).Ongoing Accountability
Setting goals is one thing; following through is another. In a group, each person becomes a “cheerleader” for the others. This mutual support fosters motivation and consistency as you work toward lasting change.Cost-Effectiveness
Compared to individual therapy, group sessions often come at a lower cost (Piper et al., 2007). It can also complement individual therapy, offering extra support between sessions.
How Therapists Ensure Quality & Ethical Practice
Our clinical team aligns with competency-based standards set by professional organizations (Council on Social Work Education [CSWE], 2022). We integrate:
Tuckman’s Stages of Group Development (forming, storming, norming, performing, adjourning) to guide group progress (Tuckman, 1965).
Yalom’s Therapeutic Factors, emphasizing universality (you’re not alone), hope, and group cohesion (Yalom & Leszcz, 2005).
This ensures an ethical, evidence-based environment that fosters genuine growth for all participants.
Who Benefits from Group Therapy?
Group therapy is versatile and can help with a variety of challenges:
Grief & Loss: Sharing stories with others who’ve lost loved ones can reduce feelings of isolation.
Anxiety & Depression: Seeing how peers manage symptoms can inspire new coping mechanisms.
Relationship Concerns: Practice communication skills and learn healthier patterns in a safe space.
Life Transitions: Whether it’s a new job, a big move, or divorce, group support offers guidance and reassurance.
Still unsure if group therapy suits your needs? A quick consultation can help you decide the best path forward.
Group Therapy at Our Practice
We’re proud to serve Flower Mound, Coppell, Grapevine, Southlake, and Las Colinas, TX, offering group therapy sessions tailored to diverse needs. Each group is:
Respectful & Confidential: You can share openly without fear or judgment.
Collaborative: Facilitators guide discussions, but peer support and active participation are highly encouraged.
Financially Accessible: We accept Aetna and offer cash pay options.
In addition, we provide individual counseling and other mental health services to ensure a comprehensive approach to your well-being.
Practical Tips for Group Therapy Success
Attend Regularly: Consistency builds trust and rapport within the group.
Be Open & Honest: Sharing your true feelings can deepen connections and expedite progress.
Listen Actively: Provide empathy and constructive feedback to others; group therapy thrives on mutual support.
Apply What You Learn: The most significant changes happen when you practice new skills outside of sessions (Burlingame et al., 2003).
Ready to Begin Your Group Therapy Journey?
We believe group therapy can be a cornerstone of healing and personal growth. If you feel ready to explore this path:
Contact Us to learn more about our group offerings, verify Aetna coverage, or discuss cash pay options.
Let’s work together to help you feel heard, supported, and empowered in a safe, nurturing environment.
Remember: You don’t have to face life’s challenges alone. Group therapy provides a community of understandingand a transformative space to discover new insights, skills, and hope.
References
American Group Psychotherapy Association. (2020). Practice guidelines for group psychotherapy.
https://www.agpa.org/home/practice-resources/group-therapy-guidelines
Burlingame, G. M., Fuhriman, A., & Mosier, J. (2003). The differential effectiveness of group psychotherapy: A meta-analytic perspective. Group Dynamics: Theory, Research, and Practice, 7(1), 3–12.
Council on Social Work Education. (2022). Educational policy and accreditation standards for baccalaureate and master’s social work programs. https://www.cswe.org/accreditation/standards/2022-epas
Kivlighan, D. M., & Miles, J. R. (2007). Empirically supported group interventions and group counseling and psychotherapy. In S. D. Brown & R. W. Lent (Eds.), Handbook of counseling psychology (4th ed., pp. 763–779). John Wiley & Sons.
McRoberts, C., Burlingame, G. M., & Hoag, M. J. (1998). Comparative efficacy of individual and group psychotherapy: A meta-analytic perspective. Group Dynamics: Theory, Research, and Practice, 2(2), 101–117.
Piper, W. E., Ogrodniczuk, J. S., Joyce, A. S., & Weideman, R. (2007). Group psychotherapy for personality disorders: Evidence, mechanisms of change, and outcomes. American Psychological Association.
Toseland, R. W., & Rivas, R. F. (2017). An introduction to group work practice (8th ed.). Pearson.
Tuckman, B. W. (1965). Developmental sequence in small groups. Psychological Bulletin, 63(6), 384–399.
Yalom, I. D., & Leszcz, M. (2005). The theory and practice of group psychotherapy (5th ed.). Basic Books.
We hope this overview clarifies how group therapy can empower you on your wellness journey. Feel free to reach out to us with any questions, and take that next step toward a more connected and supported life.
Pet Grief Support in Flower Mound, Coppell, Grapevine, Southlake, and Las Colinas, TX
Grieving the loss of a beloved pet can be just as profound as losing a close human companion. Discover how Veterinary Social Work offers a specialized, empathetic approach to pet grief. In this post, we explore the unique methods and evidence-based strategies used by therapist Angela Corley, LMSW, who leads our pet grief therapy group in Flower Mound, Coppell, Grapevine, Southlake, and Las Colinas. Whether you have Aetna insurance or prefer cash pay, learn how to honor the bond you shared with your pet and find meaningful paths toward healing.
Integrating Veterinary Social Work for Compassionate Care
Author: Mikayla Jacob, LCSW-S, LISW, Founder and Director of Clinical Services at Sentient Path PLLC
Date: January 21, 2025
Introduction
Losing a beloved pet can feel overwhelming. Many of us form deep emotional bonds with our companion animals, and saying goodfbye can be just as heartbreaking as losing a close friend or family member (Archer, 1997). However, pet grief is often overlooked or minimized, leaving individuals to cope alone. In Flower Mound, Coppell, Grapevine, Southlake, and Las Colinas, Texas, our practice offers specialized pet grief therapy and group support led by a team that includes a therapist trained in Veterinary Social Work (VSW). We accept Aetna insurance for our pet grief groups and provide cash pay options to ensure that compassionate care is accessible and affordable.
What Is Veterinary Social Work?
Veterinary Social Work (VSW) is an emerging interdisciplinary model of care that addresses the complex emotional, social, and mental health aspects of human-animal relationships (International Association of Veterinary Social Workers [IAVSW], 2022). According to Sutton-Ryan (2022), many individuals first seek professional interaction—not with a social worker—but in veterinary spaces. By embedding social work services there, VSW increases access to much-needed support, including pet grief counseling.
VSW practice highlights four core areas:
Grief and Loss (including companion animal loss)
Compassion Fatigue and Mental Health of Veterinary Professionals
Evidence-Based Animal-Assisted Interventions
The Link Between Interpersonal Violence and Animal Abuse
Recognizing these connections is crucial, especially given that 70% of U.S. households have at least one pet (American Pet Products Association [APPA], 2022). When a pet dies, the resulting grief can be significant and, at times, disenfranchised—meaning society doesn’t always acknowledge or validate it (Walsh, 2009).
Meet Our Therapist Trained in Veterinary Social Work: Angela Corley, LMSW
One of our pet grief groups is led by Angela Corley, a therapist with extensive training in Veterinary Social Work. Angela has experience supporting individuals and families through the challenges of pet loss, using evidence-based interventions that address both the emotional toll on pet owners and the potential secondary stress on veterinary professionals.
Why VSW Matters for Pet Grief
Holistic Approach: By understanding the human-animal bond, a VSW-trained therapist like Angela Corley can integrate relevant emotional, social, and relational factors into each session.
Validated Experiences: VSW professionals acknowledge that pet loss is a major life event, deserving the same level of care as other forms of grief (Sutton-Ryan, 2022).
Community Education: Angela’s role also includes providing resources and education to veterinarians, vet techs, and others in the local pet care community, fostering a broader network of empathy and support.
Understanding Pet Grief
Pet grief often mirrors the stages of human grief:
Shock/Denial
Anger
Bargaining
Depression
Acceptance
Yet, cultural or societal stigmas can leave bereaved pet owners feeling isolated or misunderstood (Zilcha-Mano et al., 2012). Through pet grief therapy, you can process these emotions in a safe space, knowing your pain is real and valid.
Individual Counseling Benefits
Safe, Confidential Environment: Discuss your grief at your own pace.
Personalized Coping Strategies: Learn mindfulness techniques, journaling, or memorialization activities to honor your pet.
Focused Support: Address any feelings of guilt or regret, common after the loss of a companion animal.
Group Therapy for Pet Loss
For many, shared experience can be a powerful catalyst for healing. Our pet grief support group offers:
Collective Understanding: You’ll meet others who empathize with your loss, reducing isolation.
Mutual Learning: Hearing how others cope provides new strategies and insights.
Guidance from a VSW Specialist: With Angela Corley’s background, the group benefits from a therapist trained to integrate the human-animal bond into therapeutic interventions.
Why Veterinary Social Work Is Crucial for Pet Grief
Holistic Integration: VSW recognizes that mental health, veterinary care, and the human-animal bond are interlinked (Sutton-Ryan, 2022).
Preventing Disenfranchised Grief: VSW-trained therapists validate the depth of your relationship with your pet.
Support for Veterinary Professionals: Veterinary teams experience high rates of compassion fatigue; VSW can mitigate these stressors (Nett et al., 2015).
Insurance and Payment Options
We strive to make pet grief counseling as accessible as possible:
Aetna Insurance: Our practice accepts Aetna, streamlining the process for insured clients.
Cash Pay: For those without insurance or who prefer self-pay, we offer flexible options to ensure you receive quality care.
Serving Flower Mound, Coppell, Grapevine, Southlake, and Las Colinas, TX
Our team is dedicated to supporting local communities across the DFW area. Whether you opt for in-person sessions or telehealth, we tailor our approach to meet your needs. You’re never alone in this journey; we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Taking the Next Step
Reach Out: Schedule a consultation to discuss individual counseling or group therapy with our Veterinary Social Worker.
Validate Your Feelings: Remember that losing a pet can be just as impactful as losing a human loved one.
Join Our Pet Grief Group: Share your experiences, learn from others, and gain professional insights from Angela Corley.
Continue the Conversation: Pet grief can be a long process. Allow yourself the space, time, and support to heal.
Conclusion
Pet grief is real, deeply felt, and deserving of professional care. With Veterinary Social Work training and a compassionate approach, our practice is uniquely equipped to help you navigate this challenging time. Contact us todayto learn more about our pet grief therapy options, including Aetna coverage and cash pay alternatives. Let’s honor your beloved companion together and set you on a path to healing and hope.
References
American Pet Products Association. (2022). APPA national pet owners survey. https://www.americanpetproducts.org/pubs_survey.asp
Archer, J. (1997). Why do people love their pets? Evolution and Human Behavior, 18(4), 237–259.
International Association of Veterinary Social Workers. (2022). IAVSW website. https://veterinarysocialwork.org/
Nett, R. J., Witte, T. K., Holzbauer, S. M., Elchos, B. L., Campagnolo, E. R., Musgrave, K. J., Carter, K. K., Kurkjian, K. M., Vanicek, C., O’Leary, D. R., Pride, K. R., & Funk, R. H. (2015). Prevalence of risk factors for suicide among veterinarians—United States, 2014. MMWR: Morbidity & Mortality Weekly Report, 64(5), 131–132.
Sutton-Ryan, A. (2022). Awareness of veterinary social work in veterinary professionals capstone project. University of Tennessee Veterinary Social Work Certificate.
Walsh, F. (2009). Human-animal bonds I: The relational significance of companion animals. Family Process, 48(4), 462–480.
Zilcha-Mano, S., Mikulincer, M., & Shaver, P. R. (2012). Pet in the therapy room: An attachment perspective on animal-assisted therapy. Social Work, 57(2), 165–177.