One of the first things I like to ask clients is “what do you like to do for fun?” On its face, it seems like a pretty simple getting-to know-you question that anyone would ask. But actually it serves an additional purpose for me. It’s a clinical question. In many cases, those go-to activities can be the antidote to certain depressive symptoms, such as struggling to get out of bed or finding the motivation to complete tasks. I’ve heard interesting answers in the past: charcoal painting, tap dancing, writing music, and even simply watching the sunset. These sorts of activities are part of your arsenal — your toolbox — to help you live a fulfilling life on a day-to-day basis. So, who wouldn’t want to add to that toolbox? Luckily, for our neighbors in Olney and the surrounding Montgomery County area, there is something for everyone, whether it’s individuals or families. Here are five of my favorite things that Olney, MD has to offer!
Category: Child Therapy
10 Ideas to Engage Kids in Learning Over the Summer
During the summer, we find more time to relax, vacation, and loosen the reins on strict rules while school is out. While rest and recharging are incredibly important, finding ways to blend that with family time, learning, and some fun can help keep kids’ minds engaged and ready for the return to school in the… Continue reading 10 Ideas to Engage Kids in Learning Over the Summer
What’s The Difference Between Coaching and Therapy
Maybe you know there are some barriers between you and a goal you would like to achieve. But you aren’t quite sure how to go about making it happen. Maybe you are feeling a bit overwhelmed by a challenge in life. But are unable to pinpoint exactly why. Seeking therapy is a natural, logical step when attempting to change something about your life. But could coaching also be beneficial?
Let’s Talk About Screen Addiction
The need to limit our screen time is real. Even prior to the pandemic, mental health professionals have recognizing that children, teens, and even adults are increasingly at risk of becoming addicted to their screens. So, it leads us to wonder, how many hours per day are acceptable? How do we separate work and school screen time from entertainment? What devices should my kid be allowed to use before bed?
How To Talk To Your Child About Starting Therapy
Learning what to say, how to say it, and how to negotiate if they resist will make a difference in the outcomes for your child when starting therap. You can create a supportive and open space for your child to enter therapy.
Can DBT Skills Group Be Taught Online?
Does A DBT Skills Group Work on Telehealth? The short answer, YES IT DOES!
A Parent’s Guide to DBT Skills Groups
When kids struggle with poor emotional regulation, their moods shift between lashing out and withdrawal. When this happens, it is incredibly difficult to understand what is actually going on. Let alone what you can do to help. If you're child experiences these intense emotions, they may benefit from a DBT skills group like the ones we offer at Montgomery Country Counseling.
Live Instagram: Prenatal (and Postnatal) Mental Health
At MCCC we work with so many adolescents and their parents at the later stages of parenting. But since we know that ALL aspects of mental health are connected and related, we wanted to bring attention to the earlier life stage of parenting. What happens for parents in the early stages of parenthood is impactful throughout the entire life span. So back in October we hosted an amazing conversation with perinatal mental specialist Joanna Strait, LISCW/LCSW-C. Watch it here or read all of the highlights below!