TL;DR ODD is a behavioral condition that goes beyond typical teenage rebellion and causes persistent defiance and conflict. Teens with ODD often show frequent anger, irritability, arguing, refusal to follow rules, blaming others, and vindictive behavior. The causes of [...]
TL;DR Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) is a persistent behavioral condition in children marked by defiance, irritability, and conflict with authority figures. ODD develops from combined biological, psychological, and environmental influences, often overlapping with ADHD, anxiety, or learning difficulties. Children [...]
TL;DR Structural Family Therapy (SFT), created by Salvador Minuchin, reorganizes family interactions to fix root causes of conflict. It focuses on boundaries, roles, and power balance to improve communication and connection. Key techniques: family mapping, enactments, boundary making, unbalancing, [...]
TL;DR Video games can be addictive for kids, offering quick rewards, connection, and a sense of control. Signs of harmful gaming include neglecting responsibilities, sleep disruption, irritability, and withdrawal from real life activities. Often, gaming is an escape from [...]
TL;DR PTSD from childhood trauma can show up as overthinking, emotional outbursts, anxiety, or feeling shut down-even if the trauma happened long ago and isn’t fully remembered. Childhood trauma happens when a child faces something overwhelming, like abuse or [...]
TL;DR Trauma is a natural response to distressing events; PTSD is a diagnosable condition that can follow a potentially traumatic event or trauma. Not everyone who experiences trauma will develop PTSD—only about 6% do. Three main types of trauma: [...]
TL;DR Marriage counseling helps couples talk openly, heal old wounds, and reconnect with each other. It improves communication, reduces recurring conflicts, and rebuilds trust in the relationship. Counseling is not only for couples in crisis; it can also strengthen [...]
TL;DR Anxiety isn't just nerves, it's persistent worry, physical tension, and emotional overwhelm that can disrupt daily life. Look for changes in behavior, mood, and body, like avoidance, irritability, racing thoughts, or sleep issues. Anxiety can show up as [...]
TL;DR Anxiety can cause chest pain that mimics a heart attack. Pain is usually sharp, tight, or stabbing, not crushing. Caused by stress hormones, muscle tension, and shallow breathing. Often triggered by panic attacks or emotional stress, not physical [...]
TL;DR Marriage counseling can work for many couples, especially when both partners are committed to change and open to the process. It helps improve communication, rebuild trust, and resolve conflict through guided techniques and structured therapy sessions. Common myths [...]
TL;DR Marriage counseling is usually far more affordable than divorce. Compared to the emotional and financial costs of separation, therapy is a smarter, long-term investment in your relationship. It’s helpful for more than just crisis situations. Couples use counseling [...]
TL;DR Medical trauma can lead to PTSD when a person feels helpless, unsafe, or emotionally overwhelmed during a medical event, even if the procedure itself was routine. PTSD from medical trauma often shows up as fear of hospitals, emotional [...]
TL;DR Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy views the mind as a system of “parts,” each carrying its own emotions, roles, and experiences. Developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz in the 1980s, it focuses on balancing these parts under the guidance [...]
TL;DR Anxiety can cause shortness of breath through your body’s fight-or-flight response. It often feels sudden, shallow, and comes with other symptoms like a racing heart or dizziness. It usually improves with breathing exercises or calming techniques. Asthma, heart, [...]
TL;DR Play therapy themes are recurring patterns in a child’s symbolic play that help therapists understand what the child is feeling or working through, especially when they can’t express it in words.Common themes include power/control, safety, nurturance, aggression, rescue, and [...]
TL;DR Yes, play therapy is evidence-based, supported by numerous studies and randomized controlled trials. Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT) is a widely researched, non-directive approach that builds emotional strength through the language of play. Meta-analyses show positive results for anxiety, [...]
TL;DR What it is: A form of psychotherapy using play as a child’s language Who it helps: Most effective for children aged 3–12, adaptable for others How it works: Toys, art, and stories help kids express what they can't [...]
TL;DR ADHD is highly genetic, with heritability estimates around 70–80%. Twin studies show the difference: ADHD appears in 76% of identical twins vs. 32% of fraternal twins. It can come from either parent, and may show up differently across [...]
TL;DR Yes, ADHD can be considered a disability under U.S. law (ADA, Section 504) when it significantly limits daily functioning like learning or working. It’s classified as a neurodevelopmental disorder in the DSM-5 and often qualifies for school or [...]
TL;DR ADHD is a real mental health condition that affects focus, impulse control, emotional regulation, and motivation, not just hyperactivity. If you often feel distracted, disorganized, forgetful, or emotionally reactive despite trying hard, you might be dealing with more [...]
When our routine gets in our way it seems so difficult to find time for self- care. Guess what? We need to make time for it, regardless. Our life can get out of control if we are not aware and conscious of [...]
Introduction May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a national event dedicated to raising awareness about mental health and empowering individuals to prioritize their mental wellness. Since its inception in 1949, Mental Health Awareness Month has served as a cornerstone [...]
Here are some practical tips for managing big feelings—like anger, sadness, anxiety, or overwhelm. These strategies are designed for adults and older kids, and they can also be adapted for younger children with some guidance in the first place.Tips to [...]
How can communication improve a romantic relationship? Effective communication fosters understanding and trust in romantic relationships, deepening affection. By openly sharing feelings and discussing issues constructively, partners can appreciate each other's shortcomings. Active listening strengthens emotional connections and intimacy. [...]
There is considerable discussion surrounding how to improve the United States. Recently, a longstanding truth has surfaced, becoming a focal point in conversations about steering our nation in the right direction. This truth states that good fathers and the essence [...]
The word "defiant" is characterized by a boldly resistant or challenging attitude, with synonyms including rebellious, insolent, and insubordinate. Here are grounded, respectful strategies to help reach and support defiant children, especially when their behavior feels challenging or resistant. It [...]
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Bipolar I Disorder, and Bipolar II Disorder are distinct mental health disorders with similar symptoms and overlapping characteristics, but critical differences in presentation, duration, and effective treatment options for the right treatment. Borderline Personality Disorder [...]
Here are some fun ADHD-friendly games and activities designed for elementary-age children. These activities support attention, self-regulation, impulse control, and emotional expression, while also being fun and engaging. What are the common symptoms of ADHD in children and adults? [...]
May 31st, 2025 the recent domestic dispute between a married couple off Plant Street in downtown Winter Garden, Fla., where gunshots were reported outside downtown Winter Garden City Hall during a domestic dispute on Saturday evening, involved the Winter [...]
Helping an elementary school child with ADHD involves supporting their emotional regulation, attention skills, and confidence — while also equipping caregivers and teachers with practical strategies. Managing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) requires a combination of strategies and support, [...]
Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD), also referred to as sociopathy, is a complex mental health condition characterized by a lack of empathy and persistent patterns of disregard for others' rights, societal norms, and ethical standards, often resulting in individuals exhibiting [...]
Understanding the distinctions between personality disorders and other mental health conditions is crucial for the diagnosis of a personality disorder and treating these conditions effectively. While both fall under the umbrella of mental health issues, they differ in their [...]
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition triggered by exposure to traumatic events, particularly the traumatic event of witnessing or experiencing life-threatening situations. While commonly associated with military personnel and first responders, PTSD symptoms, posttraumatic stress disorder [...]
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a significant mental health issue among first responders, including law enforcement officers (LEOs), firefighters (FFs), emergency medical services technicians (EMTs) and paramedics. These professionals face unique occupational hazards that expose them to repeated trauma, [...]
Nurses, including clinical nurse specialists (CNSs), play a crucial role in the healthcare system, ensuring that every patient receives the best possible care through their expertise, compassion, and dedication. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric condition that arises [...]
School’s out for summer! But it’s not 1972, its 2023, and the ways families and kids spend their Summers between each school year have not changed entirely. Kids still go to camps, attend tutoring sessions, go to school of [...]
Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is a complex mental health condition and disorder characterized by a pervasive pattern of grandiosity, self-centered behavior, and a lack of empathy toward the needs of others, often associated with significant functional impairment and related [...]
Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD), also referred to as sociopathy, is a complex mental health condition characterized by persistent patterns of disregard for the rights of others, societal norms, and ethical standards, which can put individuals at a high risk [...]
Understanding the distinctions between personality disorders and other mental health problems is crucial for diagnosing and treating these conditions effectively, particularly according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. While both fall under the umbrella of mental [...]
Toxic relationships encompass a range of detrimental behaviors, including jealousy, dishonesty, control issues, toxic communication patterns, lack of support, and betrayal. These behaviors can have severe repercussions on mental health in a romantic relationship, often resulting in heightened stress [...]
In this country, thousands of chemicals are permitted in food products, and while many are probably safe for consumption, a few have been associated with significant health issues related to pathogens. In 2023, the California Food Safety Act was [...]
How does traveling impact individuals with ADHD differently compared to those without the condition? Traveling can be especially challenging for individuals with ADHD due to the inherent disruptions in routine, sensory overload, and struggles with organization that are characteristic [...]
Listening is a fundamental aspect of effective communication, and it holds immense power in building strong relationships, especially with your daughter. By leading through listening, you not only demonstrate genuine care and empathy but also create a safe space [...]
What are the common symptoms of ADHD in children and adults? Common symptoms of ADHD, which is a medical condition and a form of attention deficit in children and young people, include hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention, which can impact [...]
Orlando Self Harm counselor answers the question if self mutilation should be considered suicidal behavior? Although all behavior that causes tissues damage should be assessed for lethality, the intent of self-mutilating behavior is one of reaffirming life. So no, it [...]
Selfish in Relationships It's difficult to criticize someone for their selflessness. We are educated to value kindness, generosity, and the needs of others around us greatly. One of the earliest lessons many of us recall from our toddler years [...]
On average, an American looks at their phone 205 times daily, devoting roughly one-quarter of their awake hours to this social media addiction and addictive device due to excessive screen time that affects daily life in the United States. [...]
Strengthen Your Marriage: Expert Tips & Advice The spring season provides an ideal opportunity for couples to deepen their connection and fortify their relationship. With the extended daylight and pleasant temperatures, there are countless possibilities for enjoyable and significant [...]
Beginner's Guide: How to Avoid Divorce Dallas Premarital Counselor offers 3 Tips to Avoid Divorce before you get married. It’s not a far stretch to assume that impulse marriages, marriages that happen just hours after knowing each other, are [...]
From Toddlers and Tiaras to Instagram Beauty Pageants, young girls are throwing themselves onto the merciless stage of judgment, comparisons, criticism and pain. According to an ABC News report, “Among the hottest activities on social media these days is [...]
