Parenting is really hard.  There are so many aspects of parenthood that demand so much of us, that the most challenging part can sometimes be the question of, "Am I doing the right thing for my kid?" We may find ourselves asking that question when we feed our child chicken nuggets for dinner. It may show up for you when you are wondering if changing schools would be best for your teen. Perhaps you feel it gnawing at you when you decide to let them go or not go hang out with friends on a school night. Now, with the rise in teen mental health awareness, we are flooded with books, articles, and videos about what a parent should do in regards to their teen's anxiety and mental health. It can be so difficult to cut through the noise and answer the question, "Am I doing the right thing?" In an effort to simplify that question, here is a list of warning signs to be on the lookout for in regards to your teen's anxiety and something you can do about it.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is widely recognized as one of the most effective treatments for anxiety and various mental health challenges. Developed by Dr. Aaron Beck in the 1960s, CBT has been extensively researched and proven to help individuals identify and change negative thought patterns, promoting healthier mental and emotional responses. As we step into 2025, using CBT techniques for mental health improvement can help you navigate daily stressors and anxiety while enhancing your overall well-being.

As children grow and develop, it's natural for them to face various challenges. However, when those struggles interfere with their happiness, social skills, or academic performance, it can concerning for parents and caregivers. Fortunately, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) offers a proven and effective solution to help children navigate the complexities of their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors.

Why Self-Compassion Is Essential When Reflecting on the Year

1. Self-Compassion Reduces Anxiety and Depression

Dr. Kristin Neff, a pioneering researcher in self-compassion, found that individuals who practice self-compassion experience lower levels of anxiety and depression. When we criticize ourselves for unmet goals or mistakes, it activates the brain's threat system, increasing cortisol and stress. Conversely, self-compassion activates the brain’s caregiving system, releasing oxytocin and calming the nervous system.

Instead of asking, “Why didn’t I do better?” try asking, “How can I show kindness to myself as I learn from this experience?” This shift reduces shame and promotes healing.

No parent is a stranger to the dreaded tantrum. While tantrums are developmentally normal as children explore their independence and learn to express their emotions, they can be particularly challenging during the busy and overstimulating holiday season. From travel and family gatherings to the excitement (and occasional overwhelm) of the holidays, tantrums can feel more intense and frequent during this time of year.

The holidays are here — the streets are glowing with lights, invitations to parties are piling up, and family gatherings are in full swing. It’s supposed to be a season of joy, yet for many, the holidays feel like an overwhelming blur of obligations. With routines disrupted and expectations running high, it’s easy to let boundaries slip and find yourself overcommitted and exhausted.

Have you ever wondered why some people seem perfectly comfortable with closeness and intimacy in relationships, while others struggle to open up or tend to push others away? The answer may lie in something called attachment styles. As a counselor, I often see how these unconscious patterns, which form in childhood, can show up in adult relationships—especially in dating.

Semaglutide medications like Ozempic and Wegovy have transformed the way many people approach weight loss. These medications suppress appetite, leading to significant physical changes for users. But what happens after the weight is gone? For many, the journey doesn’t end with their body—it shifts to their mind.