Child Psychologist
How Teens Can Overcome Anxiety, Fear, Phobia, and OCD
Navigating through the challenges of teenage years can be overwhelming, especially when anxiety, fear, phobia, or OCD are part of the equation. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help teens manage and overcome these hurdles: 1. Understand the Root Causes Identify Triggers: Encourage teens to keep a journal to pinpoint situations or thoughts that trigger anxiety…
Navigating Severe Oppositional Defiance in Teens
When oppositional defiance in teens escalates beyond what parents consider acceptable, it can be concerning and challenging. Here’s a guide to effectively address and manage such situations: 1. Seek Professional Guidance Consult a Therapist: Engage with a licensed child psychologist or counselor who specializes in adolescent behavior. They can offer insights into underlying issues and…
Supporting Your College Freshman Using EFFT
Q: My daughter just started college and calls me every night, upset because she hasn’t made friends yet. I love supporting her, but it’s taking up all my evenings. My husband thinks I’m enabling her. How can we help her adjust while balancing our own needs? A: It’s common for parents to feel torn…
Back-to-School Jitters: Tips for a Smooth Transition
As summer winds down, the excitement and nervousness of heading back to school can be palpable in any home with children. At Kentlands Psychotherapy, we understand that this period can be a mix of enthusiasm and anxiety for both children and parents. Here are some expert tips from Dr. Jessica Stutzman, our Child Psychology Associate,…
Refusing Swim Team Practice. Help!
Question: My rising third grader enthusiastically joined the Lakelands Lionfish but is now refusing to go to swim practices. How can I encourage them to stick with it? Answer: It’s challenging when a child backs away from commitments, especially when they initially showed excitement. Dr. Jessica Stutzman, our Psychological Associate and child CBT therapist suggests…
Not Fair! Pool Guest Pass Negotiations
Question: We’re organizing a pool party for my daughter’s birthday, and I’m stuck in a family debate over the guest list. I’d prefer a small gathering of five kids, but my daughter wants to use our entire pool punch card to invite more friends. Her siblings feel this is unfair, arguing they won’t get to…
Don’t Wait Until Summer to Book Your Child’s Testing Appointment
Four Considerations When Scheduling Psychological Testing As parents, we’re always looking for ways to support and understand our children better, especially when it comes to their cognitive and emotional well-being. Now is the perfect time to start thinking about scheduling testing services. Here’s why: 1. Capitalizing on Current School Year Insights An essential component of…
Animal-Assisted Strategies at Home
Q: My son enjoys his therapy sessions with his therapist and her dog Winnie. Can we apply some of these Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) strategies at home with our dog? A: Certainly! Here are three ways Elsy Estrada, LMSW, recommends integrating Animal-Assisted Therapy techniques at home: Teaching Boundaries: You can use your dog, let’s call her…
Is My College Freshmen Depressed?
Q: Our oldest is in his first semester of college. In many ways, it appears to be, “So far, so good.” At least academically, that is. But we’re worried. He doesn’t seem to be making friends. When we ask him how things are going, he just talks about classes and band practice, which are “fine.”….
Will My Girls Ever Be Close?
Q: I’m very close with my sister. I was sure my girls would be the same. Sadly, they’re not. It’s fighting, ignoring, and avoiding. My husband says not to sweat it, but I can’t help but wonder if they will ever be close. A: Your children’s relationship saddens you, but remember, sibling rapport is intricate…
It's not an easy time to be a kid. Perhaps it never is, but now it's especially true. Let us help you understand and support your child's needs.
Is your teen struggling with school, in their relationships with friends, with you? Do they seem irritable, withdrawn, unmotivated, sad? Our therapist know how to help.
Are you looking to make some aspect of your otherwise good relationship better? Maybe you’ve tried all the strategies that make sense to you.