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All posts by John S. Collier, MSW, LCSW

Everyday Ways to Improve Aphasia

What is Aphasia?

Aphasia is a condition that makes it hard for people to speak, understand words, read, or write. It usually happens after a stroke or brain injury. Some people with aphasia have trouble finding the right words, while others may not understand what is being said to them. Even though aphasia can be frustrating, there are many ways to improve communication every day.

1. Practice Speaking Every Day

Using words as much as possible can help the brain heal and improve speech. Studies show that people who practice speaking often get better over time (Brady et al., 2016). Here are some simple ways to practice:

  • Read Out Loud: Reading books, newspapers, or even food labels can help with word recall.
  • Describe Objects: Look at things around you and try to name them. For example, if you see a chair, say “chair” out loud.
  • Sing Songs: Singing can help with speech. Many people with aphasia find it easier to sing than to talk (Racette, Bard, & Peretz, 2006).

2. Use Other Ways to Communicate

Speaking is not the only way to communicate. If words are hard to find, try using:

  • Gestures: Pointing, nodding, or using hand signs can help express thoughts.
  • Writing or Drawing: Writing words or drawing pictures can help show what you mean.
  • Apps or Picture Boards: Some people use pictures or apps on a tablet or phone to communicate (Kearns et al., 2019).

3. Take Your Time and Stay Calm

It’s important to stay relaxed when trying to talk. Rushing can make it harder to find the right words. Here are some helpful tips:

  • Pause and Breathe: If words don’t come right away, take a deep breath and try again.
  • Use Short Sentences: Speaking in short phrases can make talking easier.
  • Ask for Help: If a word is hard to remember, ask someone to help by giving hints.

4. Play Word Games and Puzzles

Games that involve words can help improve language skills. Some good options include:

  • Word Matching Games: Matching words with pictures can help with memory.
  • Crossword Puzzles: Easy crossword puzzles can help with word recall.
  • Talking with Friends and Family: Simple conversations every day help build confidence and speech skills.

5. Get Support from Others

Having support makes a big difference. Talking with family, friends, or a support group can help with communication. Studies show that people with aphasia who have support improve more than those who feel isolated (Elman & Bernstein-Ellis, 1999).

6. Work with a Speech Therapist

A speech-language pathologist (SLP) can help create a plan to improve communication. They use special exercises to help with speaking, understanding, and writing.

Conclusion

Aphasia can be challenging, but daily practice and support can help. By reading out loud, using gestures, playing word games, and staying patient, people with aphasia can improve their communication skills over time. Small steps each day can lead to big improvements!

John S. Collier, MSW, LCSW, is a seasoned clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience, serving the London, Kentucky area through Southeast Kentucky Behavioral Health, LLC. Known for his compassionate approach and commitment to quality care, Mr. Collier supports individuals and families with a focus on mental health and well-being. He is available for professional inquiries at (606) 657–0532, extension 101, or by email at john@sekybh.com.

References

Brady, M. C., Kelly, H., Godwin, J., Enderby, P., & Campbell, P. (2016). Speech and language therapy for aphasia following stroke. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (6).

Elman, R. J., & Bernstein-Ellis, E. (1999). The efficacy of group communication treatment in adults with chronic aphasia. Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research, 42(2), 411-419.

Kearns, K. P., Lee, J. B., & Meigh, K. M. (2019). Communication strategies for adults with aphasia. American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology, 28(3), 1136-1148.

Racette, A., Bard, C., & Peretz, I. (2006). Making non-fluent aphasics speak: Sing along! Brain, 129(10), 2571-2584.

How to Recognize Authentic People: The Traits of Genuine Individuals

In a world where social interactions can sometimes feel superficial, authenticity stands out as a rare and valuable trait. Genuine people inspire trust, form meaningful relationships, and create positive environments. Recognizing authenticity is essential for building strong personal and professional connections. This article explores key traits of authentic individuals, supported by psychological research and references.

1. Consistent Behavior – The Same Across Situations

Authentic individuals maintain consistency in their behavior across different contexts. According to Sheldon et al. (1997), people who exhibit behavioral consistency across situations experience higher levels of psychological well-being. Consistency reflects a stable sense of self, making it easier to trust authentic individuals.

2. Honest and Transparent – Speaks the Truth with Kindness

Genuine people value honesty but express it in a way that is respectful and constructive. Research on interpersonal trust suggests that honesty fosters deeper relationships and higher life satisfaction (Baumeister & Leary, 1995). They do not manipulate the truth for personal gain but rather use honesty to build meaningful connections.

3. Empathetic and Compassionate – Cares About Others’ Feelings

Empathy is a defining characteristic of authenticity. Studies show that people high in empathy are more likely to engage in prosocial behaviors and build stronger social bonds (Batson, 1991). Genuine individuals acknowledge others’ emotions and offer support when needed.

4. Takes Responsibility – Owns Up to Mistakes

Authentic people admit when they are wrong instead of shifting blame. Psychological studies suggest that taking responsibility enhances trustworthiness and credibility in social interactions (Weiner, 1986). They learn from their mistakes rather than making excuses.

5. Shows Up for Others – Present Beyond Personal Gain

True friends and colleagues are there for you even when they have nothing to gain. Research by Reis & Shaver (1988) on close relationships emphasizes the importance of responsiveness in building deep, meaningful connections. Unlike inauthentic individuals who appear only when they need something, genuine people maintain relationships through both good and bad times.

6. Sincere Smiles – Expressions Reflect True Emotion

Facial expressions reveal authenticity. A study by Ekman & Friesen (1982) distinguishes between genuine Duchenne smiles, which engage both the mouth and eyes, and fake smiles that lack true emotional warmth. Authentic people express genuine joy when interacting with others.

7. Delivers on Promises – Follows Through with Actions

Authentic individuals do not make empty promises. Research on credibility suggests that people who follow through on commitments are perceived as more reliable and competent (Hovland et al., 1953). They align their words with their actions, strengthening trust in relationships.

8. Humble and Grounded – Does Not Seek Attention

Genuine individuals do not need constant validation or admiration. A study by Owens et al. (2013) on humility and leadership found that humble individuals are more respected and trusted. They acknowledge their strengths and weaknesses without arrogance.

9. Self-Aware – Knows Who They Are

Authentic people have a strong sense of self-awareness. According to Kernis & Goldman (2006), authenticity is linked to self-reflection and personal growth. They do not conform to societal pressures but stay true to their values and beliefs.

10. Deep Conversations – Engages in Meaningful Dialogue

Authentic people seek meaningful connections rather than engaging in superficial small talk. Mehl et al. (2010) found that people who have substantive conversations experience greater well-being. They ask thoughtful questions and listen attentively, showing genuine interest in others.

11. Non-Judgmental – Accepts Others Without Harsh Criticism

Rather than being overly critical, genuine people approach differences with understanding. Rogers (1959) emphasized unconditional positive regard as a key aspect of authentic relationships. They accept people as they are, fostering inclusivity and trust.

12. Supports Others’ Success – Encourages Rather Than Competes

Instead of feeling threatened by others’ achievements, authentic people celebrate them. Research on social support indicates that individuals who uplift others foster stronger, healthier relationships (Cohen & Wills, 1985). They recognize that success is not a competition.

Conclusion

Recognizing authentic people can help in forming deeper, more meaningful relationships. Genuine individuals exhibit honesty, empathy, humility, and reliability, making them trustworthy companions in personal and professional settings. By seeking out these traits, we can cultivate stronger social connections and a more positive environment.

John S. Collier, MSW, LCSW, is a seasoned clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience, serving the London, Kentucky area through Southeast Kentucky Behavioral Health, LLC. Known for his compassionate approach and commitment to quality care, Mr. Collier supports individuals and families with a focus on mental health and well-being. He is available for professional inquiries at (606) 657–0532, extension 101, or by email at john@sekybh.com.

References

  • Baumeister, R. F., & Leary, M. R. (1995). “The Need to Belong: Desire for Interpersonal Attachments as a Fundamental Human Motivation.” Psychological Bulletin.
  • Batson, C. D. (1991). “The Altruism Question: Toward a Social-Psychological Answer.” Erlbaum.
  • Cohen, S., & Wills, T. A. (1985). “Stress, Social Support, and the Buffering Hypothesis.” Psychological Bulletin.
  • Ekman, P., & Friesen, W. V. (1982). “Felt, False, and Miserable Smiles.” Journal of Nonverbal Behavior.
  • Hovland, C. I., Janis, I. L., & Kelley, H. H. (1953). Communication and Persuasion: Psychological Studies of Opinion Change. Yale University Press.
  • Kernis, M. H., & Goldman, B. M. (2006). “A Multicomponent Conceptualization of Authenticity: Theory and Research.” Advances in Experimental Social Psychology.
  • Mehl, M. R., et al. (2010). “Eavesdropping on Happiness: Well-Being is Related to Having Less Small Talk and More Substantive Conversations.” Psychological Science.
  • Owens, B. P., et al. (2013). “Expressed Humility in Organizations: Implications for Performance, Teams, and Leadership.” Academy of Management Journal.
  • Reis, H. T., & Shaver, P. (1988). “Intimacy as an Interpersonal Process.” In Handbook of Personal Relationships.
  • Rogers, C. (1959). A Theory of Therapy, Personality, and Interpersonal Relationships. McGraw-Hill.
  • Sheldon, K. M., Ryan, R. M., Rawsthorne, L. J., & Ilardi, B. (1997). “Trait Self and True Self: Cross-Role Variation in the Big Five Personality Traits and Adjustment.” Journal of Personality and Social Psychology.
  • Weiner, B. (1986). An Attributional Theory of Motivation and Emotion. Springer.
How to Spot Fake People: Understanding Inauthentic Behavior

In today’s world, authenticity is a valuable trait in social interactions. Genuine relationships are built on trust, honesty, and empathy, but unfortunately, some individuals exhibit behaviors that indicate insincerity. Identifying “fake” people can help maintain healthier relationships and avoid emotional manipulation. Below, we explore common traits of inauthentic individuals and the psychological explanations behind these behaviors.

1. Overly Nice – Excessive Flattery Feels Unnatural

Fake people often use excessive flattery to gain favor. Research indicates that insincere compliments, also known as ingratiation, can be used as a manipulative strategy to achieve personal gain (Jones, 1990). While genuine kindness fosters trust, flattery without sincerity may indicate hidden motives.

2. Inconsistent Behavior – Acting Differently Around Different People

Social chameleons alter their behavior based on their audience, making them difficult to trust. According to Snyder (1974), high self-monitors change their personalities depending on the situation, which can be perceived as deceptive.

3. Gossips a Lot – If They Talk About Others, They’ll Talk About You

Gossiping excessively is a red flag, as it signals a lack of loyalty. Research suggests that while some gossip serves social bonding purposes, malicious gossip is often driven by insecurity and the need for social dominance (Foster, 2004).

4. Lacks Empathy – Dismisses Others’ Feelings

Empathy is a key characteristic of genuine people. Studies show that individuals with lower levels of empathy are more likely to manipulate others for personal gain (Batson et al., 1997). Dismissing others’ emotions can indicate a lack of concern for their well-being.

5. Always the Victim – Never Takes Responsibility

Fake people often play the victim to avoid accountability. Research on self-victimization suggests that people who frequently present themselves as victims may engage in manipulation to gain sympathy or avoid blame (Zitek et al., 2010).

6. Only Around When They Need Something – Disappears Otherwise

Authentic friendships involve mutual support, whereas fake friends appear only when they need help. This behavior aligns with instrumental relationships, where individuals use others for their own benefit (Baumeister & Leary, 1995).

7. Fake Smiles – Doesn’t Reach Their Eyes

A genuine smile, known as the Duchenne smile, engages both the mouth and the eyes (Ekman & Friesen, 1982). Fake smiles, which lack eye involvement, can indicate inauthenticity.

8. Over-Promises, Under-Delivers – Says a Lot, Does Little

Trust is built on consistency. Research suggests that people who overpromise often do so to appear competent, but failing to deliver damages credibility (Weiner, 1986).

9. Brags Constantly – Always Trying to Impress

Bragging is often a sign of insecurity rather than confidence. A study by Scopelliti et al. (2015) found that self-promotion often backfires, making individuals appear less likable.

10. Contradicts Themselves – Their Stories Don’t Add Up

Inconsistencies in someone’s narrative can be a sign of dishonesty. Cognitive load theory suggests that maintaining lies requires significant mental effort, leading to contradictions (Sweller, 1988).

11. Plays Both Sides – Two-Faced Behavior

People who act differently in front of others often struggle with genuine relationships. This aligns with research on Machiavellianism, which describes individuals who manipulate others for personal gain (Christie & Geis, 1970).

12. Lack of Real Depth – Conversations Stay Shallow

Superficial conversations often indicate a reluctance to form deep emotional connections. Research suggests that meaningful conversations are linked to increased well-being and stronger social bonds (Mehl et al., 2010).

13. Quick to Judge – Always Criticizing Others

Excessive criticism can be a defense mechanism. According to projection theory, people who are highly critical of others may be projecting their own insecurities (Freud, 1911).

14. Competes With You – Tries to One-Up Everything You Do

A competitive attitude can stem from low self-esteem. Studies show that people who engage in social comparison often experience decreased self-worth (Festinger, 1954).

15. Dismissive of Your Success – Downplays Your Achievements

Envy can drive fake friends to belittle others’ successes. According to Smith et al. (1996), people experiencing envy often downplay others’ achievements to maintain their self-image.

Recognizing these behaviors can help protect against manipulation and toxic relationships. Building connections with authentic, empathetic individuals fosters trust and emotional well-being. If you notice these signs in someone, it may be beneficial to set boundaries and prioritize relationships that bring genuine support and positivity.

John S. Collier, MSW, LCSW, is a seasoned clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience, serving the London, Kentucky area through Southeast Kentucky Behavioral Health, LLC. Known for his compassionate approach and commitment to quality care, Mr. Collier supports individuals and families with a focus on mental health and well-being. He is available for professional inquiries at (606) 657–0532, extension 101, or by email at john@sekybh.com.

References

  • Batson, C. D., et al. (1997). “Empathy and Prosocial Behavior.” Psychological Bulletin.
  • Baumeister, R. F., & Leary, M. R. (1995). “The Need to Belong: Desire for Interpersonal Attachments as a Fundamental Human Motivation.” Psychological Bulletin.
  • Christie, R., & Geis, F. (1970). Studies in Machiavellianism. Academic Press.
  • Ekman, P., & Friesen, W. V. (1982). “Felt, False, and Miserable Smiles.” Journal of Nonverbal Behavior.
  • Festinger, L. (1954). “A Theory of Social Comparison Processes.” Human Relations.
  • Foster, E. K. (2004). “Research on Gossip: Taxonomy, Methods, and Future Directions.” Review of General Psychology.
  • Freud, S. (1911). “Psychoanalytic Notes on an Autobiographical Account of a Case of Paranoia.” The Standard Edition of the Complete Psychological Works of Sigmund Freud.
  • Jones, E. E. (1990). Interpersonal Perception. W.H. Freeman.
  • Mehl, M. R., et al. (2010). “Eavesdropping on Happiness: Well-Being is Related to Having Less Small Talk and More Substantive Conversations.” Psychological Science.
  • Scopelliti, I., et al. (2015). “You Call It Self-Exuberance; I Call It Bragging.” Psychological Science.
  • Snyder, M. (1974). “Self-Monitoring of Expressive Behavior.” Journal of Personality and Social Psychology.
  • Sweller, J. (1988). “Cognitive Load During Problem Solving: Effects on Learning.” Cognitive Science.
  • Weiner, B. (1986). An Attributional Theory of Motivation and Emotion. Springer.
  • Zitek, E. M., et al. (2010). “Victim Entitlement to Behave Selfishly.” Journal of Personality and Social Psychology.

Never Be Afraid to Start Over: You Are Starting With Experience

Have you ever felt scared to start something new? Maybe you had to switch schools, try a different sport, or move to a new place. It can feel like you’re starting from nothing, but that’s not true! When you start over, you are not starting from scratch—you are starting with experience.

Why Starting Over Can Be Scary

Change can be hard. People often feel nervous about trying something new because they don’t know what will happen (Dweck, 2006). It’s normal to feel afraid of failure, but mistakes are part of learning. Even when things don’t go as planned, you still gain knowledge and skills that help you in the future.

Experience Helps You Grow

When you start over, you already know things you didn’t know before. Maybe you learned what works and what doesn’t. Psychologists say that learning from past experiences helps people grow and get better at solving problems (Bandura, 1977). Every time you try again, you bring more wisdom with you.

For example, imagine you’re learning to ride a bike. The first time you try, you might fall. But after a few tries, you figure out how to balance. If you stop and start again later, you’re not truly starting over—you’re using what you already learned.

Famous People Who Started Over

Many successful people had to start over. Walt Disney’s first company failed, but he used what he learned to create Disney (Thomas, 1991). Oprah Winfrey was fired from her first TV job, but she kept going and became one of the most famous talk show hosts (Krohn, 2010). These people didn’t give up. They learned from their experiences and tried again.

How to Be Brave When Starting Over

If you ever feel nervous about a new beginning, remember these tips:

  • Think of what you have learned. Every challenge teaches you something useful.
  • Believe in yourself. Your experience makes you stronger.
  • See mistakes as lessons. They are stepping stones to success.
  • Take small steps. You don’t have to do everything at once.

Conclusion

Starting over is not a bad thing—it’s a chance to use what you’ve learned. Every experience makes you smarter, stronger, and better prepared. So, don’t be afraid to try again. You are not starting from nothing; you are starting with experience!

John S. Collier, MSW, LCSW, is a seasoned clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience, serving the London, Kentucky area through Southeast Kentucky Behavioral Health, LLC. Known for his compassionate approach and commitment to quality care, Mr. Collier supports individuals and families with a focus on mental health and well-being. He is available for professional inquiries at (606) 657–0532, extension 101, or by email at john@sekybh.com.

References

  • Bandura, A. (1977). Social Learning Theory. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice Hall.
  • Dweck, C. (2006). Mindset: The New Psychology of Success. New York: Random House.
  • Krohn, K. (2010). Oprah Winfrey: A Twentieth-Century Life. New York: Viking.
  • Thomas, B. (1991). Walt Disney: An American Original. New York: Disney Editions.