A Reflection from Our Executive Director | | |
For me, the arrival of a new year has always been a time of great reflection. I think deeply about my intentions and goals ahead — some of them clear and measurable, such as scheduling more time to spend with loved ones, and others more nebulous, such as offering myself grace when I make an honest mistake.
More recently, I have resolved to engage in more self-care practices that ultimately bring me greater focus and peace: carving out quiet, intentional morning time before embarking on the day ahead; setting aside my phone during times that I need to be fully present with others; and scheduling "stretch breaks" to get up from my desk if I've been sitting too long. These small adjustments create opportunites to witness growth and improvements in well-being, even if they aren't overt changes that others might see. These practices remind me that caring for myself is just as important as caring for others — perhaps even more so. After all, as the adage goes, you can't pour from an empty cup.
Here's wishing you a 2026 that is crafted with intentionality and peaceful practices, whatever that looks like to you.
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The dark, chilly days of January can feel isolating. But even small moments of connection can have a positive impact on mental health. A quick phone call, a shared cup of coffee, or a brief check-in with a friend, neighbor, or colleague can lift your mood and reduce stress. Reaching out, even in small ways, reminds us that we’re not alone and support can be found in everyday interactions.
Try scheduling an “eight-minute phone call” to catch up with someone, sending a short video message using an app like Marco Polo, or leaving a thoughtful note for a neighbor. Sometimes simply sharing a laugh, exchanging a kind word, or listening with presence is enough to brighten both your day and someone else’s.
| | In Soul Sessions Episode 7, we explore practical self-care strategies that help year-round, especially when life feels extra busy. Using the ABC Please framework from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), we share a variety of ways to care for your needs during stressful times. Click below to listen, and be sure to tune back in mid-month on Apple Podcasts or Spotify for Episode 8, Microdosing Grief. Wishing you a strong start to 2026! | | These 12‑week Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills Groups provide participants with practical tools to navigate intense emotions, build healthier relationships, and strengthen coping skills. Each week focuses on core DBT modules — Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, and Interpersonal Effectiveness — through structured teaching, guided practice, and supportive discussion. The group emphasizes real‑world application, helping participants increase self‑awareness, reduce impulsive behaviors, and respond to challenges with greater clarity and balance. It is suitable for adults seeking concrete, skills‑based strategies to improve emotional well‑being. | | Therapists, Board, & Staff Holiday Party 2025 | | The All Souls team gathered last month at our cozy Arlington Street office for an annual holiday party — a wonderful evening of food, connection, and cheer. Seeing our therapists, staff, and board members celebrate together was a wonderful reminder of the community that powers our mission. Thank you to everyone who makes our work possible! Enjoy more pictures here. | | |
With gratitude, we begin 2026 with the continued support of generous funders and community partners who believe in the importance of accessible mental health care in WNC. The need for quality, affordable counseling remains on the rise across our region, particularly for our uninsured and underinsured neighbors.
During November and December 2025, we were honored to receive critical support from the Dogwood Health Trust and the Kinschner Family Foundation. We are also incredibly grateful for the generous gifts from the Oliver Family Fund, The Kathryn Conway Preyer Charitable Trust, and The Hyman Foundation.
| | 2025 Winter Appeal Goal Exceeded! | | |
All Souls Counseling Center (ASCC) | 828-259-3369 | allsoulscounseling.org
ASCC is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization (EIN: 56-2200862).
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