Recent research shared by the Pew Research Center is that two-thirds of parents in the U.S. believe that parenting today is harder than it was 20 years ago. The majority of parents surveyed reported they believed this was due to the increase in technology, primarily screens and social media. With busy and technology-filled modern lives, many parents ask me about how to connect with their teenagers. And so, here are some of my favorite tips for talking with your teen.
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.
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.
Play therapy is a form of counseling that uses play as a tool for helping people, typically children, work through difficulties. Often play therapy is used to support children with things like learning healthy expression or problem-solving.
A play therapist uses toys, games, and play to assist a child in exploring and expressing their emotions, thoughts, and experiences.
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.
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.
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.