Parenting
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…
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,…
Respecting Rules and Fostering Independence During Summer Break
Question: Our daughter is home from Cornell University, and we are struggling. She says she doesn’t need to follow our rules because she’s an “adult,” but she’s still under our roof. Plus, it’s rude to come home at 3 AM when we will be worried and sleeping poorly while waiting for her. What can we…
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…
“That’s Not Fair!”- Navigating Summer Camp Scheduling With Multiple Kids
Q: “I’m struggling with feelings of guilt around scheduling my kids’ various summer camps. Managing the logistics and trying to satisfy everyone’s desires is stressing me out! My older one’s equestrian interests always seem to get priority in both budget and scheduling. I feel bad about my other kids always having to compromise and…
Valentine’s Day Expectations Too High?
Q: Valentine’s Day is around the corner, and my son is struggling to come up with ideas for celebrating with his girlfriend. His younger sister says all his ideas are “lame” and won’t satisfy his girlfriend and her social media audience when she reports what he did. This is very upsetting to me. It seems…
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.”….
Schizophrenia, Recreational Cannabis Use, and Medical Marijuana
By Kentlands Psychotherapy Intern Schizophrenia is a disorder that affects a person’s ability to think, feel, and behave. The two main symptoms are delusions and hallucinations. The exact cause of schizophrenia is unknown. However, there are emerging studies that show that marijuana use could be one potential risk factor for schizophrenia, especially in young men….
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.