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 […]
Anxiety in teens is a common experience. Isolation during the pandemic increased the struggles teens were facing with their mental health. Challenges related to social interaction and relationships continue to generate stress and anxiety. It’s important for teens to develop effective tools and strategies. Identifying, managing, and reducing anxiety, enables them to lead fulfilling lives. […]
When your child is involved in a competitive sport, they can spend the majority of their youth working towards mastering their craft. Eventually, this can continue into their college years with the hopes of making it as a professional. With athletics comes structure, fitness, identity, teamwork, and passion. These benefits can support your child in […]
A few days ago, I was aimlessly scrolling through social media. I came across a post that was being shared over and over again by folks I had gone to high school with. The post in question was posted by the family of a 14 year old freshman at my alma mater who died by […]
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 […]
Oftentimes, teenagers can seem like walking contradictions. They may want to appear special or stand out, AND fit in and conform. Teenagers try on a variety of identities AND want to be seen as unique and individual. They want your help and support, AND they want you to leave them alone and let them make […]
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 […]
Perhaps someone you love has a food allergy. They are severely allergic to nuts or milk and you see how this impacts their life. You witness as they read and re-read each label, ask questions about food preparation, and worry about a reaction. As someone who cares for them, you always make sure when they […]
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 […]
Sexless nights are no stranger to new moms. Between the healing and the sleepless nights, it is typical for sex to take a back seat in your relationship with a new baby. After a doctor’s approval, many individuals are able to return to a fulfilling sex life 6 weeks post-baby, but this isn’t the case […]
Advice From A Teen Counselor in Scotch Plains, NJ On How to Help Your Teen If You Suspect They May be in an Abusive Relationship Dating abuse is about power and control. It refers to behavior one partner uses to gain and keep their power and control over the other. While physical violence may be […]
Teenage years are full of exploration and growth. One area that we see this exploration in, specifically, is teenagers’ social lives. Teenagers may be becoming interested in pursuing romantic relationships. They may start navigating the exciting world of dating. However, with dating comes the responsibility of teaching teens the importance of autonomy, boundaries, and consent. […]
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. […]
Tips From A Trauma Therapist for Adult Daughters of Narcissistic Parents Narcissistic wounding happens when you are not allowed to fully develop your true self-identity. This occurs as a result of your narcissistic parent’s excessive needs and expectations. Given the major influence of parents’ empathy on a child’s development of self-esteem, this can severely impact […]