10 of My Favorite Books For Parents

Two adults stand with their backs turned to the camera in front of bookcases full of brightly colored books

As the days get shorter and cooler, it’s perfect weather to curl up with a new book. Enjoy some time for yourself to learn, grow, and reflect. Here’s a list of some of my favorite books for parents and families. 

Trauma

1. What Happened to You? Conversations on Trauma, Resilience, and Healing by Bruce D. Perry, MD, PhD and Oprah Winfrey

Dr. Perry and Oprah have a compelling back-and-forth in this page-turner about what it means to be resilient and heal from trauma. They are both captivating storytellers who break down the effects of trauma on children and adults. This book will change how you approach people who have experienced traumatic events.

(more…) “10 of My Favorite Books For Parents”

Back-to-School Care for Parents & Caregivers

Three elementary school-aged children, two girls and a boy, are walking away, wearing jackets and brightly colored backpacks.

This time of year, there is so much to do for parents and caregivers! Trying to squeeze in those last bits of summer fun, shopping for school supplies and new clothes, signing up for fall sports, and getting kids back into the school routine. 

And who can forget about all the other school to-do’s: parent forms, Back-to-School Night, and keeping track of all the emails? It’s no wonder that many parents and caregivers report high levels of overwhelm during the back-to-school season. 

(more…) “Back-to-School Care for Parents & Caregivers”

Top 10 Questions to Ask a Therapist

Looking for mental health counseling for yourself or your child? With more Americans than ever before seeking therapy, you’re not alone. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or relationships, more people are feeling comfortable reaching out to a therapist. As you look for someone who will meet your needs, here’s a list of the top 10 questions to ask during that first phone call.

1. Are you accepting new clients?

Hands down, ask this first! Even if it says on their website or directory listing that they are accepting new patients, it might not actually be the case. Therapists don’t always remember to update their status in all the places their information is listed.

(more…) “Top 10 Questions to Ask a Therapist”

The Top 10 Myths About Therapy… Written by a Therapist

1. My problems aren’t serious enough for therapy.

Sometimes we minimize what we’re experiencing, or compare ourselves with others who have “really serious” problems. The truth is, therapy can be helpful for everyone. 

Fred Rogers said, “Anything that’s human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable.” Talking about feelings and problems with a professional can be helpful for a lot of people.

2. I don’t need therapy- I have my friends!

It’s great that you have good friends- we all need that kind of support! But therapy is different. Your best friend might give you advice, but therapists rarely do. Instead, therapists support you to gain insight, learn new strategies, and obtain information. 

(more…) “The Top 10 Myths About Therapy… Written by a Therapist”