Author Archives: Courtney Stark

  1. Is Psych Testing Really Necessary?

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    Q: Why should I choose a comprehensive psychological evaluation when I can get a diagnosis from my child’s physician? What value does testing offer? A: This is a great question! The value of a comprehensive psychological evaluation (often referred to as “testing”) by far outweighs the costs. To begin, it provides you with a holistic image of your child, highlighting their strengths along wit…Read More

  2. Making the Most of Your Second-Choice School

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    Q: When applying to colleges, my top dream school was always Tufts; I could envision myself being there and I began to fall in love with it even more, every day. However, I got rejected last weekend and I am going to attend my second choice, Lehigh. Although this was my second choice, I didn't consider going here because I was infatuated with the idea of Tufts. How can I get emotionally psyched to…Read More

  3. A Clean Break Before College?

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    Q: I’m a senior at Northwest and have been in a relationship for two years. My boyfriend and I are both headed to college in the fall; I’m going to UCLA and he’s going to Florida State, we'll be so far from each other that we’re not sure if we should continue the relationship. I care about him a lot and don't want to lose him, but I'm not sure if a long-distance relationship will work whil…Read More

  4. The Correlation Between Marijuana and Educational Outcomes in Teens

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    As teen marijuana use is on the rise, parents all over the country are worried about how their teens’ marijuana use could impact their education. The human brain continues to develop until the age of 25, and research suggests using marijuana can interfere with this development, affecting how connections are formed in the brain. Studies have shown a correlation between marijuana use and lower gra…Read More

  5. Less Yelling in 2023: Steps for Better Communication With Your Kids.

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    Q: As I am thinking about New Year's Resolutions, my goal is to not yell at my kids as frequently. As a working mother, it has been challenging to give my kids attention. By the end of the day, I lose my temper and yell at them. I later feel guilty and eventually apologize to them. However, this yelling-apologizing cycle has gone on too long. How can I stop myself? A: You’re not alone, lots of p…Read More

  6. Am I being a Scrooge to my over-giving in-laws?

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    Q: My values during the holidays are to focus on my family and gratitude, but my in-laws want to shower my kids with an obscene number of gifts. I don't want to offend them, but it makes me uncomfortable and it is not the sort of values I want to convey to my kids. What should I do or say? A: I completely understand where you are coming from and why you would want your kids to cherish family over …Read More