As parents, one of our most important roles is to help our children develop into compassionate, empathetic, and well-behaved individuals. School is a critical environment where children learn not only academic subjects but also crucial life skills, including empathy and positive behaviors. Nurturing these qualities in school-aged children requires a…

Hello and welcome back parents, caregivers, and family members of teenage kiddos! In the thrilling saga of raising teenagers, we often face challenges like teenage stress and anxiety, however I want to take some time and acknowledge a potential elephant in the room- school refusal. As the summer-time fun and…

Welcome to another insightful blog post where we delve into the world of mental health. Today, we will explore the incredible benefits of play therapy for younger teens. As a mental health professional, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative effects of play therapy on adolescents. Let's dive right in! What…

I want to talk about the big D word in families. Many of my clients have either experienced divorce as an adult, are a child of divorce, or are now an adult of divorce that experienced it as a child. Divorce is a challenging journey, and it can be even…

In a world bustling with constant demands and challenges, it's no wonder that anxiety has become a prevalent aspect of modern life. As the weight of stressors accumulates, seeking solace within us becomes essential. Enter the transformative practice of journaling – a potent tool that not only supports anxiety but…

Hello parents and caregivers! It’s back to school time and that may have you thinking about your teenager’s stress, anxiety, and all those pesky hormones flying around. As a Marriage and Family Therapist who's had a front-row seat to the teenage emotional rollercoaster, I'm here to guide you through the…

In the ever-evolving digital landscape, social media has become an integral part of our lives, especially for teenagers. Bear with me as I age myself here. I created my first MySpace account in my sophomore year of high school. Before this, the only social or digital connection we had available…

The journey of parenting is a never-ending adventure filled with twists and turns. And when your child enters the tumultuous teen years, it's like embarking on a new, uncharted path altogether. Teens are at a crossroads, discovering their identity, asserting independence, and exploring their place in the world. As a…

Parenting teenagers can be both rewarding and challenging. As your child transitions from childhood to adolescence, they encounter a myriad of changes, both physical and emotional. One of the most common challenges teenagers face today is anxiety. While it's normal for teens to experience some level of anxiety, it's essential…

In the age of social media and a constantly changing world, being a teenager has never been more challenging. While the teenage years are commonly characterized by self-discovery and the pursuit of independence, today's adolescents face a unique set of stressors that can lead to teenage anxiety and panic attacks.…