If you or your child experience a mix of repetitive movements and obsessive behaviors, you might wonder: Is it a tic, or is it OCD? Often, it is a combination of both. Clinicians refer to this overlap as Tourettic OCD (T-OCD). Understanding this unique presentation is the first step toward getting the right support. What is Tourettic […]
Does your school-age child cry at drop-off, refuse sleepovers, or worry constantly about being away from you? While some separation anxiety is a normal part of childhood, intense and persistent fears may be a sign of Separation Anxiety Disorder (SAD). What Is Separation Anxiety Disorder? Separation Anxiety Disorder is more than typical clinginess. Children with […]
If you could follow the average child through a typical day, what would you see? They might wake up to an alarm on their phone, check messages from friends before school, complete assignments on Chromebook, go to soccer practice after school, finish homework online, and end the day FaceTiming a friend or watching YouTube. For […]
Middle school is often like a maze for girls ages 11 to 13, a twisting, turning path filled with unexpected obstacles and hidden corners. Every day can bring new challenges: a friendship that suddenly feels uncertain, a rumor that spreads without warning, or a moment when anxiety makes even simple tasks seem daunting. Girls at […]
As the school year winds down and summer break approaches, many children and teens look forward to a well-earned break, longer days, fewer responsibilities, and more freedom. While the shift can feel exciting, it often comes with a loss of structure that can affect sleep patterns, mood, and overall well-being. Maintaining a consistent schedule during […]
As a parent, you want your teen to have fulfilling friendships, positive social experiences, andthe confidence to navigate social situations. For many teens with social challenges—includingthose with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, anxiety or other communicationdifficulties—these goals can feel out of reach. The PEERS® (Program for the Education andEnrichment of Relational Skills) social skills group, […]
ADHD is often seen as a challenge—but in sports, it can be a strength. Traits like energy, hyperfocus, and boldness can give athletes with ADHD a unique edge. From Olympians to weekend warriors, many are turning what’s seen as a hurdle into a competitive advantage.
Gentle Parenting and PCIT both value connection, but take very different paths. Gentle Parenting focuses on empathy and emotion-led dialogue, while PCIT uses a structured, research-backed approach to build strong bonds and manage behavior. Knowing the difference helps parents choose what works best.
Anxiety is often seen as something to fight—but it’s actually part of our survival wiring. Far from being just stress or worry, anxiety can protect us, push us to grow, and deepen our connections. This post explores how reframing anxiety as an ally, not an enemy, can transform how we live with it.