The Teen Brain: What Are They Thinking?

with Erin Concepcion Hoolihan, PsyD

Episode 24, Season 2 | March 16, 2022

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Show Notes

Our brains develop from the back to the front. The prefrontal cortex — important for impulse control, managing emotions, planning, organization and finishing tasks — is the last to develop, and is not fully mature until our mid-twenties. How does this impact teen behavior and decision making and how can parents make sure we still matter? Don’t miss today’s inspiring episode featuring CHC’s own Dr. Erin Hoolihan, Licensed Clinical Psychologist, as she explains how parents can tap into, connect with, be understanding of and provide a safe haven for our teens and their developing brains.

Guest Info

Erin Concepcion Hoolihan, PsyD

Licensed Psychologist at CHC

Dr. Erin Concepcion Hoolihan (she/her/hers) is a licensed clinical psychologist with experience providing comprehensive psychological assessment and psychotherapy to youth and families. Dr. Hoolihan graduated with honors from Santa Clara University with a BS in psychology and went on to complete her MA and PsyD in Clinical Psychology at the University of Indianapolis, with an emphasis in Child and Adolescent psychology. At the University of Indianapolis, Dr. Hoolihan conducted research that focused on perceptions of justice, social capital, diversity and inequity. Dr. Hoolihan has worked with youth and families presenting with a range of clinical concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, self-harm/suicidality, inattention and hyperactivity and adjustment to new life circumstances. Dr. Hoolihan completed her APA accredited predoctoral internship for the county of San Bernardino in Southern California, and her APA accredited postdoctoral residency on the Child and Adolescent team for Kaiser Permanente in Daly City.

Dr. Hoolihan believes that therapy is most effective when it is a collaborative partnership, and clients are able to address their difficulties within the context of a safe therapeutic relationship. Dr. Hoolihan is most passionate about working with youth from diverse backgrounds better understand themselves and their experiences within the context of, sometimes, challenging environments. She recognizes that challenges with mental health can be difficult, and sometimes scary, for youth and families to navigate, and believes that offering support at this important developmental point is critical for helping individuals better face future challenges.

Dr. Hoolihan is also passionate about offering support to families in the form of psychological assessment. Assessment is a wonderful tool that helps families and clinicians better understand and support youth, and offers concrete suggestions to help youth be most successful.

Outside of work, Dr. Hoolihan enjoys spending time with friends and family, traveling and enjoying the wonderful food the Bay Area has to offer.