Melissa Plantz, Author at Allen Christian Counseling

About Melissa Plantz

Melissa Plantz is a Christian author and freelance writer. She spent twenty years in the pharmacy industry and has specialized in faith, fitness, nutrition, geriatrics, and mental health since 2015. She writes from the beautiful Lake Marion area in South Carolina.

Learn How To Manage Anxiety with Biblical and Practical Help

Learn How To Manage Anxiety with Biblical and Practical Help

Melissa Plantz2026-11-06T07:46:38+00:00November 9th, 2026|Anxiety, Featured, Individual Counseling|

Severe anxiety can lead to physical and mental symptoms that can interfere with your daily life. The Bible speaks of our worries and anxious hearts, yet coping with these emotions is challenging. You can learn how to manage anxiety effectively. Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? – Matthew 6:27, NIV Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. – Psalms 139:23, NIV How to Manage Anxiety Wondering how to manage anxiety despite responsibilities and life stress? We tend to put others’ needs ahead of our own when life gets busy, yet it is impossible to maintain physical, emotional, and mental health if we do not make it a priority in our lifestyle. Make small changes daily to reach your goals. Each lifestyle change will become a habit if you give yourself grace and practice a few at a time. Allow a new habit to form at least a month before adding more or expanding. For example, work out three days a week for a month before moving to four days, or stop drinking alcohol for a month before cutting back on caffeine. Walk More and Strength Train Exercise is nature’s remedy for anxiety and a host of other ailments. Exerting your body causes the heart to pump much-needed oxygen to every cell. This, in turn, causes the brain to release endorphins, helping you to relax, maintain a sense of calm, and feel good. Go Fishing (or Another Peaceful Activity) Engaging in a hobby reduces stress and anxiety. It also gives you something to look forward to and distracts your mind from problems. If you know you get to go fishing for a few hours on Saturday morning, you may find that you can get through the [...]

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Successful Aging To The End

Successful Aging To The End

Melissa Plantz2026-11-05T08:08:35+00:00November 5th, 2026|Aging and Geriatric Issues, Featured, Individual Counseling|

If someone told you that you can bypass many of the conditions that affect the older generation with a few lifestyle changes, would you do it? Would you make uncomfortable changes now in your 30s, 40s, 50s, and 60s if it meant you would experience a better quality of life in your 70s and beyond? Embracing successful aging is not a distant dream but a tangible reality that can be achieved by adopting healthy habits. The earlier you start, the more pronounced the benefits will be, empowering you to take charge of your aging journey. What You Can Do For Successful Aging at Any Age Each decade of our lives reflects how we cared for ourselves in the previous decades. For example, suppose you spent your 40s commuting two hours daily and working a desk job while doing minimal exercise. In that case, you may notice significant weight gain and achy joints in your 50s, perhaps even preventable conditions like Type 2 diabetes and obesity. Looking back, you would have told your younger self to move more, make time for exercise, and cut back on fast food and processed items at the grocery store. No matter your age right now, stop looking back. Start now at this age to make changes you will thank yourself for in the future. As Christians, we want to be ready for whatever adventure God wants for us. He prepares us, but we are responsible for caring for our bodies physically and mentally as much as is within our control. Imagine yourself at 90 years old. What would you tell the version of you at the age you are right now? That is your starting point. 30s and 40s Successful aging starts as early as our 30s. The signs of youth that we may have [...]

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How Rapid Eye Movement Therapy Works

How Rapid Eye Movement Therapy Works

Melissa Plantz2026-10-31T06:02:27+00:00November 2nd, 2026|Featured, Individual Counseling, Trauma|

Developed in the late 1980s, rapid eye movement therapy, also known as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), became a popular treatment in the 1990s for PTSD. More mental health practitioners are finding that the therapy helps the emotions associated with a traumatic event lose their power and hold over them in only a few sessions. The Benefits of Rapid Eye Movement Therapy The brain holds memories and attaches strong emotions to traumatic events. Rapid eye movement therapy aims to change how you perceive the memory, thereby reducing the painful emotions associated with it. To be able to think about the event without feeling the same anxiety or fear will help you move forward. Mental health practitioners find that by working directly with the memory, individuals can distance themselves from the feelings associated with the trauma by changing how they perceive it. The Process of EMDR The process of rapid eye movement therapy, also referred to as EMDR, can often be effective in as few as one to three sessions. The format of these sessions can be either in-person or virtual as you learn how to perform the bilateral stimulation movements and complete the assessments. Assessing History and Past Treatments Your counselor will take an initial assessment to discuss your history with the traumatic event and past treatments. You will discuss family mental health history and any coexisting mental conditions or symptoms, such as panic attacks, anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts. You may need to disclose any medications you are currently taking for your condition. Preparation Your counselor will prepare you for EMDR by instructing you on how to do the rapid eye movement therapy. These bilateral stimulations are believed to tax the working brain, decreasing the emotions attached to traumatic memories. Assessing the Traumatic Memories A large portion [...]

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What You Need To Know About Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms

What You Need To Know About Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms

Melissa Plantz2026-10-29T07:58:20+00:00October 29th, 2026|Featured, Individual Counseling, Men’s Issues, Trauma, Women’s Issues|

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition common in war veterans and people who have experienced trauma or a distressing situation. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder symptoms can develop in anyone at any age. Children may experience more intense night terrors and nightmares and express their symptoms in play, whereas adults may display more self-destructive behaviors. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder symptoms may appear during or after a traumatic or stressful event or situation. For example, someone who lives through a natural disaster may develop PTSD. War veterans who lived through a firefight or civilians who survived a mass shooting might show symptoms. Even a caregiver who responds to a terminally ill patient ringing a bell day in and day out can develop a mental health condition. The following is a list of common Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder symptoms that counseling can address. Easily startled – PTSD takes a toll on the nervous system and can make the person jumpy and easily startled. They may forget momentarily where they are as fear takes hold. They may experience panic attacks. Children may flinch, turn away, or hide. Trouble concentrating – PTSD affects memory and concentration due to changes in parts of the brain, such as the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. The mind struggles to make sense of the past trauma and the present and cannot focus on tasks. Nightmares and flashbacks – The subconscious mind works hard to make sense of the trauma, and the person with PTSD may experience horrible nightmares and flashbacks that feel intensely real. They may find themselves in situations where they do not know where they are or do not recognize the people around them. Avoiding people, places, and situations – Someone with PTSD may avoid people, places, events, or situations that remind them [...]

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Taking Care of Yourself While Caring for Others

Taking Care of Yourself While Caring for Others

Melissa Plantz2026-10-22T18:24:45+00:00October 26th, 2026|Featured, Individual Counseling, Personal Development|

Caring for others comes naturally for many of us. We care for our children, spouses, parents, friends, neighbors, and church family. Some of us volunteer for the community. Many of us have had to care for aging or ill family members while still trying to maintain our own health. Taking care of yourself is not a luxury. It is a requirement to prevent stress and burnout. Physical and mental symptoms can take shape if one neglects their own personal self-care. Some of these symptoms include: Tiredness and fatigue Headaches Digestive issues Unexplained pain and body aches Heart palpitations High blood pressure Anxiety Depression Feeling on edge or stretched too thin Withdrawal from friends and family Neglect of personal hygiene Missing doctor and dentist appointments Strain on relationships and finances Taking care of yourself is a blessing. God gifted you with one body and one life. Honor and care for it, so you can be healthy enough to care for your loved ones. Tips for Taking Care of Yourself Do you feel pulled at both ends most days? Are you neglecting your own personal health? Now is the time to make taking care of yourself a priority. You cannot pour from an empty cup. Your family needs you now more than ever, but if you neglect your physical, mental, or spiritual health, you won’t be able to provide them with the best version of you. The following are several tips for taking care of yourself while caring for the important people in your life. Set Boundaries Setting boundaries may sound harsh, but the practice is not meant to create barriers between you and loved ones; boundaries maintain your peace and sanity. Setting boundaries means saying no when you cannot take on more without sacrificing your physical or mental health. It [...]

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Managing Anxiety During the Holidays

Managing Anxiety During the Holidays

Melissa Plantz2026-10-08T06:23:19+00:00October 8th, 2026|Anxiety, Featured, Individual Counseling|

The holidays are typically a fond time for many. But the hustle and bustle of the season can backfire on someone struggling with stress and anxiety. Managing anxiety during the holidays is possible with a little bit of planning and downtime. Tips for Managing Anxiety This Holiday Do you feel overwhelmed and stressed instead of joyful? Does this year feel more like a Christmas Vacation movie than Miracle on 34th Street? Your anxiety could be running out of control this season. It’s time to make managing anxiety a priority so you can enjoy a simpler and more peaceful holiday season. Take a brisk walk Although schedules can get jam-packed during the holidays, spend 15-20 minutes on a brisk walk to lower your stress and anxiety and boost your mood. Walking at a moderate pace releases endorphins, making you a little more emotionally resilient. It also boosts the immune system and works as a natural painkiller so that you don’t wake up with stiff and painful joints. Aim to walk several days a week, either outside or follow along to a video on a treadmill indoors. Go somewhere quiet Between movie marathons and parades, it’s easy to overstimulate during holidays. Overstimulation can increase cortisol levels. Try to find someplace quiet to close your eyes and block out the noise. Maybe this means ducking into a bathroom or bedroom closet for five minutes. Use noise-canceling headphones if necessary to help you quiet your mind. Choose events wisely It may not seem like it sometimes, but you are in charge of your life. You decide what events to attend and what parties to host. Choose these events wisely and stay realistic. If you are already stressed about working overtime in December, then offering to host a Christmas dinner may not be a [...]

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The Symptoms of Psychological Trauma and How to Find Help

The Symptoms of Psychological Trauma and How to Find Help

Melissa Plantz2026-11-11T08:14:12+00:00September 21st, 2026|Anxiety, Depression, Featured, Individual Counseling, Trauma|

Psychological trauma can interfere with daily activities and lead to mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Knowing the symptoms of psychological trauma can make you aware of when to seek help from a mental health care practitioner. What is Psychological Trauma? Psychological trauma is the thoughts, emotions, and behaviors associated with a life-changing, stressful event. This event could be a one-time incident, such as a natural disaster, house fire, or car accident. Psychological trauma can also occur after a long period of stress, such as caring for a terminal loved one or suffering abuse. The Symptoms of Psychological Trauma The symptoms of psychological trauma include: Anger – Unresolved trauma can lead to anger, bitterness, and resentment. Mood swings and irritability are common after trauma. Learning to manage anger is the first step as you work through the effects of trauma. Fear – Fear and the startle response are common after trauma. You may experience nightmares or sleep disturbances as your mind tries to process events. Depression – Depression can feel like a darkening cloud hovering over you. It can feel permanent, but it’s important to remember that this persistent sadness is temporary. You may need therapy to help you past the rough obstacles of depression. Intrusive memories – Intrusive memories and thoughts come out of nowhere and can leave you shaken. In some cases, these flashbacks can feel real with sounds and scents associated with the memory. Trouble concentrating – After trauma, the brain can undergo changes in structure and functions that make it difficult to concentrate on tasks. You may find you are forgetting more and are unable to focus. Trouble making decisions – You might second-guess your choices and be unable to commit to decisions. Try not to make any rash [...]

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6 Common Marital Problems and What to Do

6 Common Marital Problems and What to Do

Melissa Plantz2026-05-08T14:01:37+00:00May 8th, 2026|Couples Counseling, Featured, Marriage Counseling, Relationship Issues|

Although we all strive for perfection, there is no perfect marriage. Perfection is an illusion. There will be issues, but how you manage those problems will predict how long and how strong your marriage will last. Knowing common marital problems can give you and your spouse a jumping-off point to discuss these problems before they occur. 6 Common Marital Problems Although common, marital problems can feel like the end of the world when it is happening to you. Communicating about issues before they worsen, seeking counseling when problems arise, and committing to one another can help your marriage navigate the rocky parts. The following are several common marital problems to keep in mind. Lack of Emotional Intimacy Emotional intimacy is the tie that binds you to someone. It is the “he or she gets me” vibe. It’s the little touches as you pass, the unspoken words, and the eye contact that say so much. Emotional intimacy can strengthen your marriage during the golden years when your bodies are frailer and you only have each other to lean on. A lack of emotional intimacy can lead a spouse to seek that connection from someone else. Lack of Physical Intimacy A lack of physical intimacy can create marital problems. Sex within marriage is good, and the Bible points out not to deprive each other of sexual relations unless agreed (1 Corinthians 7:5). There is a connection between husband and wife that is strengthened when they come together physically. When we avoid sex or one spouse withholds from another, temptation can arise. Lack of physical intimacy can lead to infidelity and affairs. Financial Stress Financial stress strains a marriage. When money is tight, couples might blame each other or work tirelessly to make ends meet, ultimately neglecting one another. Feelings of inadequacy [...]

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Healthy Tips for Aging in America

Healthy Tips for Aging in America

Melissa Plantz2025-10-02T07:22:32+00:00October 2nd, 2025|Aging and Geriatric Issues, Featured, Individual Counseling|

We all age. If you are blessed to live to see a long life, the aging process comes with it. The Bible states, “Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness.” (Proverbs 16:31, NIV) Growing older is a blessing. But we also must remember that our bodies are not our own. They belong to the Holy Spirit and should be treated as a temple. Normal wear and tear is inevitable. Neglect and self-harm are not. You must make some lifestyle changes to be healthy while aging in America. Tips for Aging in America Breaking bad habits can be challenging if you have stuck with them for 40, 50, or 60+ years. If you want to live a long life in America, then you must learn to replace bad habits with good ones. You can do this by habit stacking. Habit stacking is adding a healthy habit to an established habit. For example, if you want to start taking a multivitamin to ensure your nutritional bases are covered, try taking the vitamin after you brush your teeth in the morning. The established habit of brushing your teeth will cue your mind that it is time to take your multivitamin. The following is a list of healthy tips for aging in America that you can habit stack into your current routine. Keep moving Dick Van Dyke wrote a book titled, Keep Moving. The actor believes that as we age, our muscles stiffen. He prescribes staying active and making movement a regular part of your day. Light cardio, flexibility, and balancing activities are all essential to protect from falls, muscle and bone loss, and a “stiffening” of the arteries and joints. Be strong Older people, particularly women, shy away from weights and body-weight exercises. However, [...]

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Feeling Depressed? Learn How Setting Goals Can Help

Feeling Depressed? Learn How Setting Goals Can Help

Melissa Plantz2025-10-31T12:44:55+00:00September 22nd, 2025|Depression, Featured, Individual Counseling, Men’s Issues, Women’s Issues|

If you struggle with depression, then you understand the difficulty of getting up in the morning. The same monotonous routine only makes it that much harder. For those dealing with Seasonal Affective Disorder, the fall and winter months can be incredibly challenging. If you are feeling depressed, try setting goals. A well-crafted goal and action plan can get you up in the morning, giving you something to look forward to in your day. The sense of accomplishment, as well as the journey to achieving the goal, can boost your mood and self-esteem. How Goal Setting Helps When Feeling Depressed Goal setting really can help when you are feeling depressed. The ability to work toward a goal will leave you with a sense of purpose and confidence. Imagine waking up in the morning, ready to tackle the next task on your list and watching your progress. Goal setting is a skill that will serve you for the rest of your life. When you set goals, you focus on what is important to you. When you feel like you have some control over an outcome (your goal and plans to reach that goal), you feel less anxiety and depression and more confidence. How to Set Goals Once you learn how to set goals, you can apply the concept to any area of your life. Do you want to move further in your career, improve relationships, or lose weight? Setting goals and implementing the action steps can take you there. But it all starts with a plan. The first step is fine-tuning your goal until it is clear, specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and timely. This is also known as a SMART goal. You must be able to envision your goal. For example, if you want to lose weight, you focus on precisely [...]

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Melissa Plantz

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