by Angela Youngs, Psy. D. What happens during sleep? When we sleep, our bodies are doing more than simply taking a break from the world. Sleep is a critical part of our day and is crucial to our functioning. During sleep, our bodies move through various stages. Our bodies need to move through these stages
By Sushi Frausto, M.A. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT #101031) During this time of at-home learning, parents supporting children with ADHD may struggle to keep up with their kids’ energy levels and learning styles. To best support your children, appreciate and understand the unique way their brains and bodies work. Often kids with ADHD struggle with slowing
by Melissa J. Johnson, Ph.D. “Don’t trust your fears. They don’t know how strong you really are.” ~ Dr. Kate Truitt Turning to face my fear, I meet the warrior who lives within…. Today is Clinical Hypnosis Day! I have incorporated Clinical Hypnosis into my work with adults, children, and teens for over 10 years. Clinical
By Paige Howard, MS, AMFT, APCC and Sushi Frausto, LMFT When in Doubt, Let Them Play It Out! Play is a safe and familiar way kids communicate what they’re thinking and how they’re feeling. While we as adults can say “I’m feeling scared, sad or disappointed,” kids express those feelings through what is most natural
by Melissa J. Johnson, Ph.D. Willing to experience aloneness, I discover connection everywhere….– Jennifer Paine Welwood As I reflect on what Mental Health Awareness Month means in this COVID-19 year, these words have special meaning. “Willing to experience aloneness” – wow, really?!? That’s a tough thing to do in such a lonely and isolating time.
by Melissa J. Johnson, Ph.D. “Courage does not always roar. Sometimes it is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, I will try again tomorrow.” ~Mary Anne Radmacher I’ve been seeing a lot of courage these days! I’m guessing you have too. The courage of our health care and other front line
By Sushi Frausto, LMFT Boredom is a natural, common, and unavoidable feeling. Throughout life, we will all be faced with moments of complete and utter boredom. Children may experience boredom as both an emotional and physical sensation that can feel overwhelming. They often turn to screens, devices, or other distractions to alleviate this feeling. These distractions do
By our Family Therapy and Parent Coaching Team “If only there was a universal rule book I could follow!” So often we hear this wish from parents. Expecting the Unexpected Parenting is such hard work – no matter how carefully one prepares. Books or articles have been read and thoughtfully incorporated with sage advice from those
By Brittany Fella, MALicensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 92791) We love working with teens – in both individual and family online therapy. But how do you decide if individual or family therapy would be most helpful for your teen? Consider these factors: When Individual Therapy is Best If your teen’s primary concerns are academic challenges, self-esteem, or friendship
by Melissa J. Johnson, Ph.D. “There are no promises. Look deeply at joy and sorrow, at laughing and crying, at hoping and fearing, at all that lives and dies. What truly heals is gratitude and tenderness.” ~Pema Chodron In daily conversations with my cherished Institute team, my friends and family members, I’m constantly struck by