Oldie but goodie, this post was originally written by Harriet Lerner, Ph.D in her Psychology Today blog, the Dance of Connection: Finding your voice in an unequal power arrangement-especially when the more powerful person (a teacher, doctor, boss) is shaming you-takes a great amount of courage. Consider my therapy client Margot, whom I first met when she was a high school … [Read more...]
What’s the Difference Between Shyness and Social Phobia?
Everyone experience some shyness or discomfort at some point in his or her lives. This can come from new situations or going to a party and not know anyone. A person who is shy would feel awkward around people; yet anxiously want to socialize with others. Eventually the shy person would become comfortable after doing the uncomfortable thing. Just to be clear there is no … [Read more...]
Art Therapy for ADHD and Anxious Children
Earnest Parents, February 4, 2012 Raising children is hard enough, but raising children with ADHD and anxiety problems can be downright nerve-wracking. We simply aren’t taught how to communicate with a child who has such difficulties, since adults often gradually move away from the mindset of children and struggle to connect with kids who are anxious or have ADHD. Luckily, … [Read more...]
How to Teach Children Emotional Intelligence
GoodTherapy.org, August 2nd 2012 Emotional intelligence is a relatively new psychological concept, but it’s been backed by years of research. This kind of intelligence enables people to have positive interactions with others, to predict others’ thoughts and feelings, and to engage in appropriate levels of empathy. Emotional intelligence is strongly correlated with career … [Read more...]
Parents of Special Needs Kids Offer Parenting Advice
NEWSOK , the Oklahoman, June 12, 2012 At some time in their lives, most parents will question themselves, wondering if they are doing everything “right.” Am I mom enough? Was my child breast-fed long enough? Am I strict enough or too strict? Am I helping my child live up to his or her emotional and intellectual potential? And most parents will, at some point, find … [Read more...]
Strong Teacher-Child Relationship Decreases Misconduct in Teen Boys
Therapist Brooklyn Bureau, GOODTHERAPY.ORG, June 12, 2012 Conduct and behavioral issues are not uncommon during adolescence. Teens experience a phase of experimentation and try to test their boundaries during adolescence. New influences, new friends, and new school environments also impact the nature of a teen’s behavior during these significant developmental years. Many teens … [Read more...]
Ten Steps a Parent Can Take to Safeguard a Child’s Mental Health
HUFFINGTON POST, Victoria Costello, May 9, 2012 Author and mental health advocate Victoria Costello recently wrote for us, "Mom, I'm Joining the Marines" In lieu of Mental Health Awareness Day, see more of her advice here at her Huffington Post feature: After helping my sons, Alex and Sammy, recover from two different mental disorders that hit them in their teens, I spent a … [Read more...]
Anxiety: The Hidden Disability That Affects One in Eight Children
Huffington Post, JESSICA MINIHAN, M.Ed, BCBA, May 3, 2012 The Anxiety Disorders Association of America reports one in eight children suffer from anxiety disorders. Without intervention, they're at risk for poor performance, diminished learning and social/behavior problems in school. Because anxiety disorders show up differently in children, parents and teachers can't always … [Read more...]
It’s Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week–how aware are you?
Boston.com, Dr. CLAIRE MCCARTHY, May 7, 2012 This first week in May is National Children's Mental Health Awareness Week--which is a great idea because for children, as for all of us, good mental health is just as important as good physical health. So--how aware are you? Did you know that... Mental illness is very common in children. One in five children suffers from some sort … [Read more...]
Parents’ Depression Linked to Problems in Children
New York Times, By PERRI KLASS, M.D., May 7, 2012 Like many other primary care doctors, I sometimes sense the shadow of depression hovering at the edges of the exam room. I am haunted by one mother with severe postnatal depression. Years ago, I took proper care of the baby, but I missed the mother’s distress, as did everyone else. Read More … [Read more...]
3 Ways To Find The Best Therapist For Your Teen
When faced with the adversity of a Mental Health Illness, finding the “right” therapist can be just as demanding and draining as the illness itself. In times of need, the most important and first step should be finding someone to help. Not everyone is fit for helping. Your teen needs a therapist who can create a welcoming client-to-therapists’ atmosphere which often times is a … [Read more...]