As a therapist I have been working with parents for over 20 years. I have consulted on so many different parenting concerns that I could not possibly list all of them. Consulting with parents on how to take care of their children during a pandemic is new to me. There are no chapters in books, at least that I can ...READ MORE »
I’m writing this post as a follow up to last week’s blog on basic LGTBQ terminology for parents of tweens and teens. As an adolescent and family therapist in Washington DC, I’m often the first point of contact for teens who are exploring their gender and sexual identity. That means that I’m often helping parents navigate this new territory with ...READ MORE »
As a therapist working with adolescents and families, the topics of gender and sexual orientation come up regularly in my work. Times have changed quickly and gender is a very popular topic not only for kids, but also for our broader culture as gender roles are evolving beyond binary terms. Back in the day (actually, not very long ago), we ...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 »
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 »
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 »
Divorced parents need to rely on email to communicate the logistics of running a two home family. Unfortunately, in my work counseling divorced parents, I witness fighting over email more than you would expect! Email arguments are rarely productive because someone can always come up with another counter argument. This serves to fuel conflict and will eventually spill over to ...READ MORE »
