Thanksgiving is fast approaching, and for many, it brings a mix of excitement and stress. Hosting Thanksgiving can feel like a juggling act, managing cooking, schedules, and family dynamics. Here are some practical strategies to make your holiday less stressful and more meaningful.

1. Plan Early and Delegate

Start with a plan. Decide on the menu, seating, and activities you’d like to include. Don’t be afraid to delegate! Ask family members to bring a dish or handle details like setting the table.

​Using a shared grocery list app can simplify coordinating contributions. Delegating not only lightens your load but creates a collaborative holiday atmosphere.

2. Set Boundaries Ahead of Time

If family gatherings stir up tension, setting boundaries can help. For instance, if Aunt Mary often brings up politics, kindly let her know ahead that this year will focus on positive topics. Setting these expectations in advance can help avoid conflicts and make everyone feel more comfortable.

3. Practice Self-Care

Being a great host doesn’t mean sacrificing your well-being. Take time before guests arrive to relax, whether through meditation, a quick walk, or simply some deep breaths. Staying centered helps you manage holiday stress and stay present with guests.

4. Encourage Meaningful Conversations

Thanksgiving is a chance to bond. Consider starting a gratitude circle, where each person shares something they’re thankful for. This simple activity promotes connection and positive conversations.

5. Embrace Imperfection

Remember, Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be perfect to be memorable. Embrace the unexpected, whether it’s a kitchen mishap or a last-minute change of plans. By letting go of perfection, you’ll be able to enjoy the holiday more fully.

​At Oak Creek Relational Counseling Center, we understand the unique challenges family gatherings can bring. Need help preparing for the holiday season? Reach out to schedule a session with one of our counselors. Wishing you a warm, joyful Thanksgiving!

Halloween can be a fun and festive time, but it’s also important to prioritize both emotional and physical safety. At Oak Creek Relational Counseling Center in Pleasant Hill, California, we believe that a balanced approach can help families and couples enjoy a stress-free holiday. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Stay Aware of Emotional Safety

For families, Halloween can bring excitement, but also anxiety for children who may be scared by costumes or events. Validate your child’s feelings if they express discomfort and encourage open communication. Creating a safe word that children can use if they’re feeling overwhelmed can help them feel secure.

For couples, this is a great opportunity to bond and engage in fun activities together. However, conflicts can arise if one partner’s idea of fun doesn’t align with the other’s. Be mindful of each other’s comfort zones and try to find activities you both enjoy. Setting expectations in advance can help ensure everyone has a good time.

2. Practical Physical Safety Tips

If trick-or-treating is part of your family’s plans, make sure children are visible with reflective gear or glow sticks. Stick to well-lit areas and familiar routes, and remind children to check in if they get separated. For adults, avoid overindulging in alcohol, as it can lead to unsafe situations for yourself and others.

3. Promote Self-Care

Halloween can sometimes be overwhelming with all the sensory stimuli. Encourage self-care by taking breaks, choosing quieter activities, or planning a cozy night in if that feels more comfortable. It’s okay to skip events that don’t feel right for you.

By being mindful of both physical safety and emotional well-being, families and couples can make Halloween a fun, safe, and stress-free holiday. For more tips on creating a safe and supportive environment, contact us at Oak Creek Relational Counseling Center.

​​For more information or to seek help, visit Oak Creek Relational Counseling Center.

​If you are experiencing an emergency or are in crisis: please call 988, 911 or call Crisis Support Support Services at 1-800-309-2131.

To speak to one of our therapists about our counseling services and to schedule an appointment, please choose one of the following options. A therapist will contact you within two business days.
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• Call our Intake Line at 1-408-320-5740​
• Contact a therapist directly. Contact information for each therapist is provided on his/her profile page.
• Email us at i[email protected]

Business inquiries: call 408-320-5740 or email i[email protected].
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Associate and traineeship inquiries, please visit the Clinical Internship page.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), a critical time to raise awareness about the widespread issue of domestic violence and show support for survivors. The theme for this year is #Every1KnowsSome1, underscoring the reality that domestic violence touches every community and social circle.  At Oak Creek Relational Counseling Center in Pleasant Hill, CA, we join the national conversation to shed light on this pervasive issue.

​Domestic violence is not limited to physical abuse—it can include emotional, verbal, financial, and sexual abuse, all aimed at gaining power and control over another person. It affects people of all genders, ages, and backgrounds. According to the CDC, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have experienced severe physical violence from a partner in their lifetime. Additionally, over half of LGBTQ+ individuals report experiencing intimate partner violence.
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At Oak Creek, we believe in creating a safe space for survivors to heal and rebuild their lives. It’s essential to remember that support is available. Whether you’re a survivor or know someone who is, resources are available to help navigate the challenges of domestic violence. Everyone deserves healthy relationships and safety in their homes.

We not only support survivors of domestic violence but also work with those who have caused harm, helping offenders understand their triggers and delve into the underlying anger and mistrust driving their behaviors. By addressing these issues, we guide them toward creating healthier patterns in relationships, fostering long-term change.
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Through this dual approach—supporting survivors and working with offenders—we aim to break the cycle of harm and promote healing for all involved. If you or someone you know is in need of support, we’re here to help. Together, we can create healthier futures.
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You can be part of the solution by staying informed, supporting local programs, and advocating for survivors. Visit our website to learn more about domestic violence and how you can get involved. Let’s come together this DVAM to show that no one has to face domestic violence alone. #Every1KnowsSome1 who needs support. 

Together, we can make a difference.

​For more information or to seek help, visit Oak Creek Relational Counseling Center.

​If you are experiencing an emergency or are in crisis: please call 988, 911 or call Crisis Support Support Services at 1-800-309-2131.

To speak to one of our therapists about our counseling services and to schedule an appointment, please choose one of the following options. A therapist will contact you within two business days.
​

• Call our Intake Line at 1-408-320-5740​
• Contact a therapist directly. Contact information for each therapist is provided on his/her profile page.
• Email us at i[email protected]

Business inquiries: call 408-320-5740 or email i[email protected].
​
Associate and traineeship inquiries, please visit the Clinical Internship page.

At Oak Creek Relational Counseling Center, we understand the importance of early social and emotional development. That’s why we’re excited to offer a new group designed specifically for children ages 6-9. This 8 week session workshop focuses on building social skills, emotional regulation, and forming meaningful friendships, all within the engaging context of Play Therapy.

Play Therapy is an evidence-based approach that uses the natural medium of play to help children express themselves, work through emotions, and develop essential life skills. Through play, children often find it easier to navigate complex feelings, learn how to communicate with others, and practice managing their emotions. Our group sessions are designed to foster these developmental milestones in a safe, supportive, and fun environment.

Children in this age range are at a critical stage of learning how to relate to their peers, which is why group settings are particularly beneficial. In the workshop, kids will participate in a variety of structured and free-play activities, allowing them to build relationships and gain confidence in social interactions. Group activities focus on teamwork, empathy, and conflict resolution, providing children with the tools to form positive, lasting friendships.

Whether your child is shy, struggles with managing big emotions, or simply needs a supportive space to enhance their social abilities, this group can provide valuable growth opportunities.

If you’re interested in learning more or enrolling your child, please contact Stacey Watson at 925-289-8434 or via email at [email protected].

Location:
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Oak Creek Relational Counseling Center
2001 Monument Blvd., Suite 7
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523

Let’s work together to help your child thrive in a supportive and fun setting!