Play is a powerful tool for children and adults alike. However, academic pressures and extracurricular commitments frequently overshadow the importance of play. We live in a society that can be very focused on accomplishments. This can even seep into therapy. There can be an expectation in therapy that we fix the problem, develop coping skills […]
You can read all the books and take all the classes, but nothing fully prepares you for parenthood. The number of new experiences you can have as a new parent is endless. So how could we possibly prepare for everything motherhood brings? As a professional who has worked with kids, I have been a caretaker […]
What is EMDR Therapy? Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, or EMDR, is a well-researched technique for therapy. EMDR can help individuals feeling “stuck” to move forward through reprocessing distressing memories. Including memories experienced after a traumatic event. EMDR is effective at helping adults, teens, and children. It uses bilateral stimulation of both the left and right […]
Living with food allergies is a daily balancing act. It includes a lot of vigilance and anxiety. It’s a life filled with label-reading, meticulous meal planning, and emergency preparation. The fear of a severe allergic reaction can be constant. Indeed, it can shadow every meal, snack, and social event. Advocating for you or your child’s […]
Getting a diagnosis of any kind for your child can be a daunting experience. It can be difficult to comprehend and process that your child needs additional help. During this time you will be given information about the journey of helping your child. Selective mutism is no different than any other diagnosis in that regard. […]
Both therapists and psychiatrists specialize in working with individuals to improve their emotional and psychological health and well-being. While both types of practitioners share the goal of mental wellness, their training and treatment styles of a therapist and psychiatrist can vary significantly. Psychiatry Psychiatry is a branch of medicine. All psychiatrists have attended medical school […]
Just as you begin to think that you have the infant stage figured out, your child transitions to toddlerhood. You are now sprung into a whole new world of challenges. So often we talk about the sleepless nights of infancy, and the transition to parenthood. But what about the transition to being the parent of […]
Considering Child Therapy So you’re considering therapy for your child. Reaching this point can bring up a lot of difficult feelings for you as a parent. You are likely feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, confused, guilty, or all of the above. Reaching out for help is acknowledging that you and your child have the potential to thrive […]
As a parent, it is natural to feel a heightened sense of concern when your child is having problems. You want to be in the best position to make the right decision for your child, so you may be researching safe and effective treatments. Especially, when it comes to your child. You may have been […]
Yes, it’s frustrating to live with food allergies. No, this is not a personal choice of yours to avoid certain foods. Going to parties, restaurants, and get-togethers can be anxiety-inducing for many reasons. When you live with food allergies, you may be wondering what you’re going to eat and if the food will be safe. […]
Since the pandemic, therapy services are in high demand for all ages, but especially for children and youth. With the school year or extracurricular activities in your child’s life, it can feel difficult to balance all of the priorities for the wellness of your child. You want what’s best for them. You want them to […]
After the recent shooting in a grocery store in Buffalo, NY it is all the more imperative to discuss racially motivated violence with our kids. 1 in every 1000 violent crimes is related to bias. 62% of those crimes are specifically related to race and ethnicity. 50% of racial crimes are directed at individuals with […]
In my last blog, “Could Your Child Be Experiencing Selective Mutism?“ I discussed the details of selective mutism: what symptoms to look for, the causes of selective mutism, and when to seek out professional help. By now you’ve met with your child’s pediatrician and discussed your concerns. They will refer your child to a mental […]
What is Selective Mutism? Selective Mutism (SM) is an anxiety disorder that is characterized by an inability to speak or communicate in certain situations. It is usually first diagnosed during childhood. Children with selective mutism appear to develop typically and speak normally in certain situations. However, they fail to speak in public situations where speaking […]
High profile acts of violence, especially school shootings, can be frightening and confusing to children. Even well-intentioned safety measures like ‘active shooter drills’ at schools can also amplify intense worries in children who fear their friends or loved ones’ safety. Step 1: Reassure your child that they are safe. Emphasize that schools are very safe. […]