Sibling relationships can be complex, combining fun and support with challenges like jealousy. Sibling play therapy focuses on improving these dynamics through play, helping children build empathy, emotional regulation, and conflict resolution skills. The therapy engages siblings individually and together, emphasizing parental involvement to reinforce learned skills for sustainable change.
I recently joined the Advisory Board for the Center for Educational Improvement (CEI), an organization dedicated to creating caring, supportive environments for children in the very place they spend most of their time: school. While I admit I initially hesitated to take on another responsibility amidst an already full plate, this opportunity felt aligned with… Continue reading Redefining Success: Addressing Youth Mental Health in Schools
Starting therapy is a courageous and meaningful step toward personal growth, healing, and self-understanding. One of the most important factors in setting yourself up for success, especially in the early stages, is weekly therapy. Meeting with your therapist on a weekly basis provides the structure, support, and consistency needed to build momentum and make meaningful… Continue reading Why Weekly Therapy Sessions Matter – Especially at the Start
Think of one of your favorite pieces of media, such as a story that really resonated with you. Perhaps The Lord of the Rings series is a favorite. At the surface you may have enjoyed the characters, such as Frodo and Gandolf, and how they handled the situation presented (destroying the ring). Perhaps the compelling… Continue reading How Do Video Games Resonate With Players?
Ah, ‘tis the season! College finals are wrapping up, AP exams are in full swing, and year books are being distributed, fresh off the printer. Around us, flowers are blooming, the sun is finally shining, and hoodies and jeans are being swapped out with shorts and boat shoes. That can only mean one thing- We’re… Continue reading A Therapist’s Tips for a Successful Summer Break
I've seen Disney Pixar address individual mental health topics before. But unlike these other movies, Encanto highlights the intricacies of family dynamics. The movie explains how family patterns can impact both individual mental health and overall family functioning. It's no wonder that I have brought up Encanto in nearly every family therapy session this week! So let's dig in: here are seven (and there are more but theres only so much time) family therapy themes that can be found in Disney's charming and poignant movie, Encanto!
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!
With so many people in job transition right now during Covid-19, there are lots of questions about career exploration and job searching! Watch (or read) my interview with Caitlin Magidson. We discuss tips about how to find a new job during covid-19. And the link between this and family dynamics for young people searching for a new job during covid.
