Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, usually shortened to CBT, is one of those therapy terms everyone seems to recognize, even if they’re not quite sure what it actually means. It’s often described as the “evidence-based” therapy. Doctors recommend it. Insurance companies love it. Therapists are trained in it early and often. And many clients come to therapy saying, “I think I want ...READ MORE »
When I landed in Tanzania, I was carrying more than gear. I was carrying grief from losing my mother the prior month, loss related to some ongoing family changes, and the weight of some big looming decisions upon my return. But I was also carrying hope—hope that slow, steady steps could lead to something new. Over a year ago, when ...READ MORE »
(Written by Dr. Allison Sibley with contributions from Jozi Zwerdling & Michelle Pittman) Many DC families are feeling scared and overwhelmed as our city faces an increase in ICE raids, National Guard presence, and federal policing ordered by President Trump. Families are asking urgent questions: How do I keep my children safe? How do I respond if I encounter officials? ...READ MORE »
Ever heard of the “Sunday Scaries” – or maybe you get them? It’s those feelings we get at the end of the weekend, the crash after a couple of days of fun, the anxiety or dread thinking about the week ahead, or the “funk” we might fall into without even recognizing why. I often notice myself being a little more ...READ MORE »
In today’s society, there’s a prevailing notion that our romantic partners should be our primary, if not exclusive, source of emotional support. This idea is deeply ingrained in our cultural narratives and perpetuated through various forms of media. However, leading voices in relationship psychology and sociology, such as Esther Perel and Rhaina Cohen, challenge this notion, advocating for a more ...READ MORE »
Lately, a rash of coaching commentary on parenting approaches has emerged. It can be challenging for parents to know what to rely on for their parenting approaches, especially for their neurodivergent children. I want to share some basic information about parenting styles and add information I reviewed about Low-Demand parenting. As a Parenting Specialist, I have read hundreds of parenting ...READ MORE »
In the Internal Family Systems model of therapy, the main concept is that we have a core or essential “Self,” in addition to many parts that develop to protect and manage our internal worlds. These parts are your various inner voices or “sides” of you that come out in different situations. We can recognize that symptoms come from parts of ...READ MORE »
As a child/teen therapist for almost 25 years and a leading mental health consultant, I often have conversations with parents and educators about how to have difficult conversations with kids. These adults come to me knowing that I’ve spent countless hours talking with children and teens about their problems, which often are due to painful experiences. And having treated ...READ MORE »
Americans will soon gather at backyards, stadiums, parks, and pools all around the country to bbq, celebrate, and set off fireworks in honor of Independence Day. For most, this is a fun time to get together with family and friends and watch or partake in some fun fireworks displays. But for so many people, fireworks can be very triggering and ...READ MORE »
Over the past 15 years that I’ve been providing therapy to teens and families in the Washington, DC area, the topic of psychiatric medication has come up frequently. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I don’t prescribe medication and I always recommend discussing questions and concerns with your primary care doctor or psychiatrist; but often I find that I have ...READ MORE »
