This blog is the 2nd in a series about the anatomy of emotions. Last week, I wrote about key factors in our primary and secondary emotions, and I offered some tips for how to work with emotions in your daily life. This week, I’d like to detail some of the essential functions of emotions. In my work with couples, adults ...READ MORE »
This month, I’m writing a 3 part series on the anatomy of emotions for 3 main reasons– 1) Emotions are easily misunderstood and get a bad rap as being mysterious and complex; 2) When understood, emotions are good sources of data for making decisions, and 3) Emotions direct almost every single human interaction and decision. Recently, I attended a business conference ...READ MORE »
In my previous article, “How to Mother a Middle Schooler: Spoiler Alert, You Already Know!” I spoke of the similarities among the toddler years and tween years. I also addressed how your middle schooler or “tween” has a desire to fit in with peers, (hence they whine, “Everyone has a phone but me!”) and their desire for more independence at ...READ MORE »
As a child and adolescent therapist in Washington, DC, a middle school guidance counselor, and a mother, I find that moms frequently ask me for tips and strategies to manage their changing (and challenging) relationship with their middle schooler. Often I hear questions like these: “Should I get her a phone? If I do, how much freedom should I let her ...READ MORE »
The holidays can be an exciting and joyous time for many- filled with family, gift-giving and receiving, and a much awaited break from school and work. Yet for so many people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues, the holidays can be a challenging and emotional time of year. As a therapist working with DC and ...READ MORE »
It has officially arrived- holiday season 2019! Is it just me or has this year flown by? This time of year can bring upon feelings of excitement, joy, and love. It can also bring upon feelings of anxiety. Through all the travel, family gatherings, and breaks from school/work, some of our children may experience difficulty. As a child and adolescent therapist ...READ MORE »
Am I a good parent? As a child and adolescent psychotherapist in Washington DC, and a parent myself, this question is often floating around my office and my mind. What does it even mean to be a ‘good parent’? On my own parenting journey, I have thought about this a lot. When it comes to building and maintaining a secure attachment with ...READ MORE »
As a family therapist, I have gained some insights that helped me compile these cell phone and screen use rules for tweens. Never write or forward a photo, or anything in a text, that you wouldn’t want forwarded to everyone in your school, your principal and your parents. Remember that everything you send can become public. Always ask before you forward a ...READ MORE »
I’m writing to share some thoughts and information that I’ve gathered on managing technology within your family. I’m a mom of three children (7, 9, and 11), and like many of you, I spent the past summer battling screen usage with my three kids. It’s my most hated fight. I’m also a family therapist in the Washington, DC and ...READ MORE »
Back-to-School can be a stressful and emotional period for both children and parents. This can be true for all families, but if there was a recent separation or divorce in your family, you are likely starting the school year with a ton of new logistics and feelings to consider. Children can be especially anxious at this time. What will they ...READ MORE »
