For roughly the past 15 years, we have ramped up our efforts and expectations for functioning to unsustainable levels.  The results have been greater stress and anxiety, less sleep and oh so many “have tos”.   To be honest it would be nice as a therapist to be less bus...

Week 1 of Corona Virus shut down was for many a welcome relief of daily responsibilities and tasks.  For teens especially, staying up late, sleeping in, chatting with friends, and plugging into screens of choice became the rhythm.  By week 2 parents started getting fru...

The only certainty is in knowing there will be uncertainty

One of the core skills we advocate in working with and raising teens is Predictability.  We know that predictability creates a sense of safety and reduces anxiety and therefore increases innovation and positive...

Is hard. Why?

Here are my thoughts. We often feel we are walking on eggshells trying not to set off an emotional explosion. We fear our kids will shut us out or lie to us to avoid listening to us or disappointing us. We are busy, stressed and oh so tired and just can’t...

Adolescence is a search for identity. Figuring out who you are, what and whom you like, what drives your motivations and what values guide your path is a complex journey. As we enter into a new year and in fact a new decade, let’s convert the saying New Year, New You (...

Aside from being an 80’s wrap song by DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince aka Will Smith, it’s an age-old assumption made by teens across generations. In some ways, teens may need to hold onto this notion to allow for the separation and development of individuality need...

Many if not all of us in the business of working with teens would describe ourselves as understanding. So why do many teens walk away from their interactions with adults feeling like we just don’t understand?

Professionals in various roles are so often well meaning, des...

Enjoying the early mornings of school days yet?  Yaaawn....

Now that we are back into the school routine, let’s focus on the massive circadian shift needed for teens to readjust to the early morning school demands after a long summer of late nights and sleeping in.  As...

Next time your teen tries to express themselves think of ways to help them practice this important skill

Teenagers are famously rough around the edges when expressing emotions. Being able to express emotions verbally is critical for mental wellness, empowering growth an...

“Johnny, why didn’t you use your social skills?”  Those who teach social skills to youth on the Autism Spectrum understand that experiencing overwhelming emotions answers this question all too often.  Youth on the Autism Spectrum regularly experience intense emotions a...