In April, I wrote a blog about the courage it can take to start therapy. After over 25 years as a psychologist, I have discovered that most people noodle around with a problem for a few months before they finally call for a psychotherapy appointment. Some get it right the first time, while others are not sure that they and their therapist are a good fit. So I thought I would give you some guidelines to help you figure out if you are with the right person to help you solve your problems and … [Read more...]
Why Seeing a Psychologist Can Be Life-Changing
April 11, 2025 By
It takes courage to start therapy. Chances are, whatever has been bothering you has been in your mind for a while and you have not been able to solve the problem on your own. So even if it feels scary, therapy provides a safe space to deal with thoughts and emotions, develop coping skills and improve your overall well-being. One of the greatest benefits of therapy is that your relationship with your psychologist is confidential and non-judgemental. No matter how much you may be judging … [Read more...]
OCD: What Is it and Do I Have It?
October 25, 2016 By
Jenny stops by Amanda’s locker to borrow a pencil before the homeroom bell. “Ugh,” Jenny scoffs, eyeing Amanda’s perfectly stacked books and variety of office supplies, all arranged by size and color. “You’re sooo OCD.” Unlike many mental illnesses, which still carry some degree of social stigma, OCD — obsessive compulsive disorder — has gained such popular acceptance that it is often dropped casually into conversation to punch up a joke or as a pithy synonym for “neat freak.” Pop culture … [Read more...]
Letting Go of Perfect: How Perfectionism Hurts Children
December 29, 2015 By
This blog is Part Two of a three-part series on perfectionism. Most parents would feel proud if they thought they had the “perfect” child. But few look at the downside of perfectionism and how striving for it can hurt children. In today’s competitive environment, children cannot just be perfect on paper, amassing a large digital resume good grades and extracurricular activities. They need to have real skills to navigate the ups and down of teacher demands, changing friendships, emotional … [Read more...]
Is Your Child with Special Needs Challenging Your Relationship?
March 30, 2015 By
Anyone who’s been married or in a committed relationship can tell you that trying to blend the needs and priorities of two people to create a happy partnership is no easy feat. Throwing children into the mix makes for even greater challenges as the focus shifts away from you and more time is devoted to the kids. But when one of those children has special needs – such as learning issues, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or falling somewhere on the autism spectrum – the strains … [Read more...]
