Parenting

Effective communication can be tricky. In today’s episode, we talk with Jennifer Leydecker, LMFT, Clinical Program Manager at CHC and expert on DBT strategies. You will learn how Dialectical Behavior Therapy (or DBT) strategies can transform the way we communicate. We’ll discuss practical tools like mindfulness, validation, and dialectics to express your needs, set boundaries, and build stronger, more authentic connections. Whether it’s navigating conflict or deepening relationships, these evidence-based techniques will help you communicate with clarity, compassion, and confidence.

In today’s episode, we dive into the power of words and how they shape your child's sense of self and connection as we talk with CHC expert, Ariela Laibson, LCSW, Care Team Program Manager. Ariela shares valuable sound bytes for parents and caregivers. You’ll hear what to say in moments when your child makes a mistake, feels lonely, or achieves success. She shares practical phrases and approaches that communicate compassion, foster belonging, and show your child they are valued no matter the circumstance. Tune in to discover how your words can nurture resilience, confidence, and deep connection with your child.

We live every day in relationship with others. Sometimes those relationships are healthy and have a positive impact on our well-being, and sometimes they do not. In this new episode, we talk with CHC experts, Emily Hsu, PhD, and Danna Torres, LMFT, about the importance of open, honest communication and why feeling valued and heard matters so much. We’ll also explore signs of an unhealthy relationship—how to recognize when your needs aren’t being met, when boundaries aren’t respected, and when communication breaks down. Join us as we unpack the essentials of building connections rooted in respect, empathy, and mutual support, helping you spot the difference between a positive, nurturing relationship and one that may not be serving you well.

Join us for this new episode with CHC experts, Karly Crockett, LCSW and Rachel O’Harra, LMFT as we explore the vital connection between healthy eating for both mental and physical well-being. Proper nutrition fuels our bodies and minds, playing a key role in overall development, mood regulation, and energy levels. We’ll share practical strategies for parents/caregivers to encourage healthy eating habits in children, focusing on fostering curiosity around food, modeling positive behaviors, involving kids in meal planning, and more. Tune in for tips that help make healthy eating a fun, engaging, and sustainable part of your family's life!

Supporting a child with ADHD can be invigorating, exhausting and rewarding! In this new Voices of Compassion podcast episode, we dive into the unique strengths of ADHD and explore actionable strategies parents can use to help their child thrive. In conversation with CHC experts, Danna Torres and Karly Crockett, we unpack how to channel their creativity, energy, and problem-solving skills. How can you turn ADHD challenges into opportunities for growth? Whether you're navigating school struggles or looking for ways to boost focus at home, this conversation offers practical advice to make life smoother for both parents and kids.

It’s easy to feel like everything needs to be perfect. Our youth can pick up on that and they can become obsessed with being perfect -- in school, with their bodies, and even their hobbies. In this new episode of Voices of Compassion, we explore the complex world of perfectionism in children. What does perfectionism look like? From fear of failure and constant self-criticism to anxiety over making mistakes, many kids struggle with wanting to be "perfect." With CHC experts, Dr. Marjan Ebadi and Dr. Whitney Geller, we discuss the potential causes of perfectionism, societal expectations and personality traits. Parents and caregivers will learn how to support their children by fostering a healthy mindset, encouraging effort over perfection, and maintaining balanced expectations. Are high expectations helpful or harmful? Join us as we explore ways to nurture resilience without fueling the pressure to be perfect.

In this new podcast episode we explore the meaning of validation and why it’s one of the most effective communication strategies for parents and caregivers. Although the term validation is often used, many people aren’t entirely sure what it really means or how to use it in conversations with others, including youth. Validation helps youth feel heard, understood, and valued, creating a strong emotional connection and goes beyond simply agreeing or offering comfort; it’s about acknowledging and accepting a child’s feelings as real and important. With CHC expert psychologists, Dr. Erin Hoolihan and Dr. Tracy Cavaligos, we talk about how to break down the steps to effectively validate emotions and share practical examples of how to respond in common scenarios where validation is key. This is one you will want to listen to again and again!

Today we are talking about academic pressure and its impact on teens with Dr. Pardis Khosravi, Clinical Director and Licensed Psychologist at CHC. Where do these demands come from? It could be various sources including schools, peers, and societal expectations. Recognizing the signs that a student is on overload is crucial for parents and caregivers, so we'll discuss key indicators such as changes in behavior, mood swings, and declining academic performance. Additionally, we'll examine the profound effects of academic pressure on mental health and overall well-being. Most importantly, we'll offer practical strategies to build resilience and how parents can foster a healthy balance between academic success and personal well-being. Tune in to learn how to help your teen thrive both in and out of the classroom.

Today we are talking about academic pressure and its impact on teens with Dr. Pardis Khosravi, Clinical Director and Licensed Psychologist at CHC. Where do these demands come from? It could be various sources including schools, peers, and societal expectations. Recognizing the signs that a student is on overload is crucial for parents and caregivers, so we'll discuss key indicators such as changes in behavior, mood swings, and declining academic performance. Additionally, we'll examine the profound effects of academic pressure on mental health and overall well-being. Most importantly, we'll offer practical strategies to build resilience and how parents can foster a healthy balance between academic success and personal well-being. Tune in to learn how to help your teen thrive both in and out of the classroom.

Join our guest host, Natalie Tamburello, Community Engagement Manager at CHC, as she discusses the unique challenges and strengths that students with Autism navigate while learning in school. She is joined by two of our expert CHC Licensed Psychologists, Dr. Melanie Hsu and Dr. Cassandra Sanchez. They share how the social challenges associated with Autism can pose barriers to learning when in a highly stimulating environment like a school classroom. Listen in to gain a deeper understanding of these unique challenges and learn how to leverage their strengths to support the learning journey.

As technology continues to permeate almost all aspects of our lives, understanding how to navigate the digital world responsibly becomes critical, especially for our youth. In this episode, we talk with Eisha Buch, Director, Education Programs & Development for Common Sense Education, about helping students develop a sense of digital agency so that they can truly thrive in a tech-filled world with all its benefits, as well as navigating the potential stressors. We discuss practical strategies that parents can use at home to support the responsible use of technology and foster a culture of digital citizenship.

As technology continues to permeate almost all aspects of our lives, understanding how to navigate the digital world responsibly becomes critical, especially for our youth. In this episode, we talk with Eisha Buch, Director, Education Programs & Development for Common Sense Education, about helping students develop a sense of digital agency so that they can truly thrive in a tech-filled world with all its benefits, as well as navigating the potential stressors. We discuss practical strategies that parents can use at home to support the responsible use of technology and foster a culture of digital citizenship.

In today’s episode, we discuss the sensitive but critical topic of teen suicide. According to the CDC, suicide rates from 2007 through 2021 for Americans ages 10 to 24 rose 62%. In this conversation with CHC Doctoral Psychology Intern, Emily Raymond we discuss key risk factors that parents, educators, and peers should be aware of, offering practical strategies for parents to create open lines of communication with their teens and recognize warning signs. By fostering a community of compassion and understanding, we can work toward reducing teen suicide rates and creating a safer, more supportive environment for all adolescents.

Puberty can be a challenging time, but with guidance, parents can help their children navigate it with resilience and strength. Drawing on insights and the expertise of CHC Doctoral Psychology intern, Emma Lecarie, this new podcast episode provides practical advice for parents navigating this transitional period with their children. We explore strategies parents can use to promote positive mental health outcomes during puberty as well as understanding the potential challenges their children may face and how parents and caregivers can recognize signs of distress and offer help.

Join our guest host Natalie Tamburello, Community Engagement Manager at CHC, as she engages in a candid conversation about the unique challenges and stigma surrounding mental health and the Asian American community with our guest experts from CHC, licensed psychologist, Dr. Emily Hsu and licensed clinical social worker, Thuy Tran. They discuss not only what they've experienced professionally, but also personally, as Asian American mental health professionals. Listen in to gain a deeper understanding of the unique challenges and learn about navigating language barriers, how love is expressed differently in Asian communities and how we can build cultural bridges with empathy and understanding.

Adolescence is a period of growth in which youth are discovering who they are and where they belong. In this insightful podcast episode, we discuss the dynamic and sometimes challenging journey of parenting adolescents. As children transition into the teen years, parents face new and unique challenges. Although this time can be a fearful time for parents/caregivers because they are not sure what to expect, it can also be a time of joy and hope. Listen in to this conversation with CHC experts, Dr. Patrice Crisostomo, and Dr. Emily Hsu, both Licensed Psychologists, as we explore practical tips, expert advice, and proven strategies to help parents navigate this crucial phase of their child's development.

Conflict within relationships is natural. What happens when this conflict occurs within a family and ends up in separation or divorce? Join us as we explore effective communication strategies with children during this challenging time, emphasizing the importance of fostering open dialogue and understanding and offer insights into how to create a supportive environment for children to express their emotions. CHC psychiatrists, Dr. Vidya Krishnan and Dr. Natalie Pon share valuable advice on helping children cope with the changes that come with divorce, offering practical tips for co-parenting and maintaining a sense of stability. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on fostering healthy family dynamics in the face of divorce and the importance of not only caring for your kids, but also caring for yourself.

Adolescence is an important time of self-discovery during which teens often grapple with questions about identity and purpose. They want to understand who they are and their place in the world and this can bring about profound existential reflection. In today’s world, our youth can feel like the future is uncertain as they experience rapid societal changes, some economic instability and global challenges like climate change. In addition, they feel the pressure to make life-defining choices such as what they will do beyond high school and planning for a career. Listen to today’s episode as we talk with CHC psychologists, Dr. Erin Hoolihan and Dr. Tracy Cavaligos. We’ll talk about how adolescents may find it challenging to navigate a world filled with unknowns, which can lead to heightened anxiety. You’ll learn how you can develop a greater understanding of how this impacts youth and how you can effectively support them in this developmental period.

The journey of a parent is often a winding path, sometimes obscured by the unknown, yet it’s rich in challenges that can become catalysts for growth and understanding. In this special podcast episode, we have a conversation with Jen Ullyot, a parent coach who has longtime connections with CHC through her kids and more. She candidly shares her experiences, offering insights into the rollercoaster of emotions and the unexpected joys that come with parenting a child with learning differences. She knows it’s not easy, but she also knows about the resilience of kids and families and the power and agency found in the positive choices we make. Listen to hear more about how you can navigate your family’s journey with grace and compassion.

Being an adolescent girl can be hard – add learning challenges and giftedness – and everything seems to be amplified. In this podcast episode, we welcome guest, Dr. Lisa White, Psychologist at The Summit Center, who works with twice exceptional girls, as we discuss how these remarkable individuals perceive themselves and navigate school and life. You’ll gain valuable insights about twice exceptional girls and hear some strategies for nurturing their strengths and addressing their specific needs. Dr. Lisa sheds light on the unique experiences of twice exceptional (2e) girls with practical tips for parents looking for ways to provide support to them.

Today’s podcast episode underscores the power of resilience, understanding and growth in the face of mental health challenges. Join us for this conversation with Jack and his mom, Cheri. Jack was a teen who seemingly had it all — popular with his peers, strong friendships, a leader on the Varsity track team and a very strong student (graduated as Valedictorian of his class!). Yet, beneath the surface, Jack grappled with an internal battle with anxiety and OCD that would reshape his life in unexpected ways. How could this accomplished student and leader on the track struggle with these feelings that seemed insurmountable? Cheri, Jack’s mom, expresses that she knew something wasn’t quite right, but wasn’t sure how to help. And then Jack started talking about what was going on underneath the surface. Cheri knew that Jack needed help, and she was determined to find that help even though it proved challenging. Join us to hear this conversation with Jack and his mom — it’s a story about struggle, but also about hope and resilience.

One of the most important things we can do for our children is to help them develop resilience. A common misconception is that people are either resilient or not; that we’re born one way or the other. In fact, the process of building resilience is a lifelong journey of learning to cope with challenging experiences and adapt well in the face of adversity. It’s important to let our kids make mistakes and be there on the sidelines to encourage, rather than fix it for them. Learn more in our conversation today with experts from CHC’s Catherine T. Harvey Center for Clinical Services, Patrice Crisostomo, PhD, Clinical Program Manager and Psychologist, and Sarah Taylor, MS, Doctoral Psychology Intern.

Autism can present in many different ways, but at its core it's about social communication. Autism is usually suspected at a young age because children aren’t developing language or social skills at the same rate as their peers. Sometimes parents don’t want to have their child screened for autism because they are afraid of labels, stigma and limitations. But while overwhelming, diagnosis can also bring support, services and maybe even relief.  Don’t miss this special podcast episode with two CHC experts who are also parents of young children with autism: Sarah Knepper, MEd, Educational Services Manager at EBC Schools and Cristal Byrne, PhD, licensed psychologist at CHC’s Catherine T. Harvey Center for Clinical Services. Join us to hear personal and professional advice for finding empathy, understanding and community while raising a child on the spectrum.

We are all different, and we know that not every child fits into a specific category. Is your child struggling with learning or behavioral outbursts? Your child is not broken and you are not a bad parent. One helpful tool may be getting your child evaluated. An evaluation is not about labeling, but providing useful information and practical insights on strengths and weaknesses so your child can thrive throughout their lifespan. Listen to today’s episode featuring CHC’s Catherine T. Harvey Center for Clinical Services experts Dr. Erin Hoolihan, Licensed Psychologist and Kimberly Yu, Doctoral Psychology Intern.

Self-advocacy is more than speaking up for yourself--it’s about self-awareness, understanding our needs and clear communication. It’s about asking for what we want and need, but not demanding it. In today’s podcast episode, CHC’s Catherine T. Harvey Center for Clinical Services experts Joan Baran, PhD, licensed clinical psychologist and Meghan Collins, MS, MPhil, doctoral psychology intern share strategies for parents and caregivers to model and build self-advocacy skills, independence and confidence in our kids.

Almost every day it seems that we are exposed to various acts of violence — school shootings, war, terrorism and more. As a result, our kids can end up feeling confused, frightened and unsafe. How can we validate those feelings while providing comfort to our kids? How do we encourage them to ask questions, even if we may not have all the answers? Should we wait until they come to us or bring it up ourselves? In today’s podcast episode, we talk with Audrey Schield, bilingual Associate Social Worker at CHC’s Catherine T. Harvey Center for Clinical Services, as she shares strategies for crafting developmentally appropriate conversations with your kids about violence.

Nearly half of Americans report feeling left out or alone, and over two-thirds of teens report being lonely. Research shows that loneliness and social isolation are twice as harmful to physical and mental health as obesity. But did you know that even just one friend can be enough? Tune in to today’s episode as we talk with Dr. George “Alex” Lazo, licensed clinical psychologist at CHC’s Catherine T. Harvey Center for Clinical Services, about the difference between being alone and lonely, how to build tolerance in our kids and the importance of “checking in.”

School avoidance has become a major issue, exacerbated by long periods of distance learning and isolation. What causes school avoidance? How does it show up in kids and how can parents effectively support their children in getting back to the classroom? In today’s conversation with Dr. Jody Miller, Head of Esther B. Clark Schools at CHC, we learn that by identifying the motivating factors for kids to want to go to school, we can better understand and address the anxiety around their absence. Dr. Miller is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and has spent her career working with students who struggle to participate in typical classroom settings.

Social-emotional health is fundamental to life and learning: in fact, research shows that it is a greater predictor of academic success than IQ. As our kids head back to school, we are mindful of what they have been through in the past few years and the youth mental health crisis in our midst. How can we as parents best support our children’s social-emotional wellbeing at home and in the classroom? CHC’s Chief Education Officer, Chris Harris, MEd shares timely tips in today’s podcast episode.

In today’s Part 2 episode, we continue the conversation with CHC’s Catherine T. Harvey Center for Clinical Services expert, Dr. Glen Elliot. If you are a parent of a child with ADHD, you’ll be glad to hear that “there truly is light at the end of the tunnel.” Persistent, loving, unconditional support, effective interventions and adapting to your child’s evolving needs can lead to really positive outcomes. Dr. Elliot speaks with experience on all fronts: as an accomplished researcher, writer and practitioner on the subject, and the parent of an adult son with ADHD. Listen today as he shares his wisdom on the different types of ADHD, behavioral interventions, medication considerations and other strategies for supporting your unique child.

In today’s Part 2 podcast episode, we continue the conversation with CHC’s Catherine T. Harvey Center for Clinical Services experts, Dr. Glen Elliott and Dr. Natalie Pon, on the topic of young children and anxiety. Anxiety in young children is pervasive, and the start of the school year can be nerve-racking for kids and parents alike. Join us as we delve into school-related strategies––socialization, setting expectations, identifying emotions and utilizing play––to set your young child up for success. Listen now (and don’t forget to go back and catch Part 1 if you missed it!)

Between 2009 and 2019, the percentage of teens who reported having “persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness” rose from 26 percent to 37 percent and, in 2021, to 44 percent. Further, research shows that 1 in 5 youth in distress felt that they didn’t have someone they could turn to in a crisis. How can we let our teens know we’re here for them and protect them from significant mental health challenges? How do we know what to say, or even where to begin? In today’s podcast episode, CHC clinical services expert, Dr. Tracy Cavaligos shares myriad tips and takeaways for talking to our teens about mental health.

We often talk about building self-awareness in our kids, but what about in ourselves, as parents and caregivers? The better we understand our own complexities, the more wholeheartedly we can show up for our children. In fact, research shows that when a parent understands themselves better, the child has better overall life outcomes. In today’s podcast episode, CHC Clinical Services experts Audrey Schield, Bilingual Associate Social Worker and Karly Crockett, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, share self-awareness stories and strategies for more present and intentional parenting. ​​

Children often experience a rollercoaster of emotions, even on a good day. But prolonged symptoms of sadness, irritability, short-temper, change in eating or sleeping habits or lost concentration or interest could be signs of depression. How do you know what’s normal and what’s cause for concern? Today’s podcast episode features CHC Clinical Services experts, Dr. Patrice Crisostomo, Clinical Program Manager and Psychologist and Annemarie Kelleghan, Doctoral Psychology Intern, sharing insights, expertise and important reminders: depression is treatable, early intervention is key, and you are not alone.

Growing up is a process of moving toward independence, becoming your own person and meeting your own needs. “Launching” refers to the parental role in their child’s transition into adulthood. This process looks different for everyone — a bumpier or more meandering path for some than others. So how can you best prepare your child for a smooth launch? In today’s podcast episode, CHC’s Chief Psychiatrist and Medical Director, Dr. Vidya Krishnan, shares keen wisdom and practical takeaways for supporting your child now for life on their own, while instilling the confidence that they’ll need to fly.

The CDC and National Health Statistics Reports estimate that there is a 1-2% chance of a child being diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and the rates for boys are higher than that for girls. So, if your child has just been diagnosed with autism, you are not alone. In today’s podcast episode, CHC experts Seema Motwani, Occupational Therapist and Gina Baldi, Parent Trainer in our Early Support Program for Autism (ESPA) tell us where to turn for services, therapies and support. Best of all, they remind us that an autism diagnosis doesn’t change who our child is or what they’re capable of. (Hint: anything).

Parenting is really an art — of balancing being there with letting go. Can your children navigate the world on their own? Will they ever stop needing you and will you ever stop worrying about them? Don’t miss today’s podcast episode featuring two CHC experts — Liberty Hebron, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Audrey Schield, Bilingual Associate Social Worker — as they share a three-step model for weathering all sorts of parenting “storms.”

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.

Data shows that calls to the helpline for the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) increased 40% in the first year of the pandemic. Sometimes symptoms might fly under the radar or be dismissed as ‘just a phase,’ but the shame, guilt and health complications associated with eating disorders are risks we can’t ignore. On today’s podcast episode, we sit down with CHC’s own Alexa Wilmarth, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has worked with adolescents with eating disorders in both outpatient and residential treatment settings. Listen today as Alexa shares warning signs, insights, co-occurring mental health disorders and advice for parents on this timely topic.

We receive lots of questions from parents about evaluations: Does my child need one? Or should we just start treatment? An evaluation by a psychologist or a multidisciplinary team can be a valuable tool in understanding your child’s strengths and weaknesses and provide a roadmap for next steps. It can reveal whether what seems like distraction, laziness or reluctance could actually be a sign of mental health or learning challenges. In today’s podcast episode, CHC experts Dr. Pardis Khosravi, Clinical Director and Psychologist and Ann Lyke, Educational Therapist, share their professional perspectives on everything from the differences between evaluation types to how to talk to your child about the results.

A lack of socialization over the past two years has a lot of parents worried about their children’s language development. In fact, one of the most viewed articles in our online Resource Library right now focuses on speech delays in young children during COVID. How do we know when our kids should be progressing from first words to full sentences? Have masks and social distancing affected typical language development? Where should we turn if we’re concerned? Today’s podcast guests — two CHC Speech and Language Pathologists, Shirit Megiddo, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-CL and Kharyl Anne Piano, MS CCC-SLP — will put these questions to rest and share ideas to foster healthy language development at home.

Do you ever wonder if your child might be missing some key developmental milestones? Are you seeing some behaviors or delays that give you cause for concern? As a parent, it can be hard to know where to turn and how to figure out next steps. In today’s podcast episode, I sat down with Sarah Knepper, MEd, Educational Services Manager at EBC School and the mother of two young boys, one with disabilities. Sarah shares her parenting journey — from the initial “pit in my stomach” and the shame she felt on the playground, to the validation of a diagnosis and finding the right supports for her son. Sarah’s perspective as both a mom and an educator is filled with “aha” moments, compassion and authenticity.

Parenting expert, author and educator, Julie Lythcott-Haims is well-known for her words of wisdom and encouragement. But in today’s podcast episode — for the first time — we are invited to listen in on a heart-to-heart conversation between Julie and her 22-year-old son Sawyer, about his journey with ADHD and their family’s road to acceptance. Sawyer bravely shares stories of his diagnosis, his anxiety, his decision to take a year off from college and the importance of his parents’ understanding. We hear Julie, not just as an expert, but as a mom in the moment, discussing the mistakes she’s made along the way, what she’s learned and how she and her partner are finally becoming the “parents their son deserves.” This is one you won’t want to miss — it’s special from start to finish.

The last couple of years have been all about adapting to meet evolving and elusive protocols. For students with learning differences, the shifts from online learning to hybrid to in-person (and back) have made a part of their life that is already challenging exceedingly more difficult. Adaptation is a key aspect of Executive Functioning, which can be lacking in those with learner variability. In today’s podcast episode, we sat down with Dr. Nicole Ofiesh, Director of the Schwab Learning Center at CHC, about strategies students can use to build Executive Functioning skills in high school, college and beyond.

Parenting is never easy, but raising a child with exceptional talents who also struggles with learning differences (such as autism, ADHD or dyslexia) is even more complex. This combination of giftedness and challenges — known as twice exceptional (2e) — creates a confusing picture for parents and educators. It can be difficult to see the signs of 2e because it looks different in every child. Their strengths can mask their challenges and their challenges can mask their strengths. Today we talk with Callie Turk, a parent of a 2e child and Dr. Vivien Keil, neuropsychologist, about the journey of understanding and parenting these unique and extraordinary kids.

It’s hard to imagine, but essential to talk about. While we shudder to think of our teens injuring themselves intentionally, cutting and other forms of self-harm are on the rise, affecting 1 in 12 youth and increasing 99% during the pandemic. In today’s episode, we welcome back Jennifer Leydecker, LMFT to the podcast, to discuss what self-harm looks like in adolescents and how to validate their hurt while encouraging healthier coping strategies. As Clinical Program Manager and Clinician at the RISE Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), Jennifer is an expert at helping teens regulate big emotions in a nonjudgmental way.

We hear more about gender expression these days than we used to. Yet it’s rare to hear a raw, firsthand account about what it really feels like when your gender identity doesn’t match your biological gender — from shame and stigma to self-awareness and acceptance. In this episode, we hear from a trans adult and his mom as they share their inspiring journey. We talk about body dysmorphia, mental health issues, determination, self-acceptance and transitioning. Ultimately, theirs is a love story between mother and son, and son and self that applies to us all.

Young children typically experience some degree of fear — of separation, the dark, strangers, loud noises and new experiences. But how do we know when it’s something more and prevent these fears from interfering with our children’s daily lives? In this podcast episode, we chat with two child and adolescent psychiatrists, Dr. Natalie Pon and Dr. Glen Elliott, to discuss the various ways anxiety presents in young children, what is typical vs. troubling and the role of play in managing fear. Parents and caregivers of children under 6 will find our conversation especially relevant.

In this episode, we talk candidly about what parenting a child with ADHD is really like — the challenges, joys, worries and wonder. How do you know when it’s time to get help? Is medication necessary? What kind of impact will your child’s behavior have on the rest of the family? While we may sometimes wish that our kids came with an instruction manual, remember that you are doing the best you can and so is your child. And you are not alone. Tune in today to hear from Lauren Sims, the mom of a child with ADHD, as she shares her real-life personal journey filled with encouragement, empathy and strategies to set your child up for success.

Your child has just been diagnosed with ADHD…now what? Part of you might feel relieved that there’s an explanation for your child’s behavior, while another might feel overwhelmed by the prospect of parenting a child with attention challenges. ADHD is a lifelong journey filled with wonderful surprises and extraordinary obstacles. How can you best equip your child for happiness and success? In today’s podcast episode, one of CHC’s foremost and beloved ADHD experts, Dr. Glen Elliott, offers sage advice as both a parent and a professional. You’ll walk away with valuable insights, practical suggestions and evidence-based words of encouragement.

A dyslexia diagnosis can be bittersweet: in some ways, it might help explain your child’s struggles in school and their anxieties about falling behind. But finding the right supports for your child is daunting, and you can't help but worry about the long-term impacts on their happiness, confidence and success. In today’s podcast episode, we sat down with CHC’s Lisa Parnello, MEd and Dr. Vivien Keil, both of whom have devoted their lives to evaluating, educating and advocating for children who learn differently. Listen today to learn how to partner with your child’s school to ensure appropriate accommodations, how to talk to your child about their diagnosis, and pro tips for fostering strengths and finding support.

Whether your child just doesn’t want to go to bed at night, or is defiant to anything and everything, Dr. Jody Miller, Head of Esther B. Clark Schools at CHC and Board Certified Behavior Analyst, has seen it all. In today’s podcast episode, Dr. Miller shares her top three go-to strategies for challenging behavior. From positive reinforcement to consequences and consistency, you’ll learn new tools to try at home and when to reach out for help. Perhaps most importantly, Dr. Miller shares her own experience parenting children with challenging behavior, reminding us that “it will improve.” Listen today!

From the minute we become parents, we start fixating on sleep — are our babies getting enough? Too much? Will they ever sleep through the night? Will we? It’s a hot topic because we know how critical it is for healthy development, both mental and physical. As our kids turn to teens, we may monitor their sleep less, but it doesn’t become less important to their wellbeing and academic performance. Teens can face many impediments to consistent, restorative sleep, including stress, with an estimated 70-75% of teens getting less than the recommended 8 hours per night. In this podcast episode, we sat down with two CHC experts — Dr. Joan Baran, Clinical Director at CHC, and Deepika Bose, Doctoral Psychology Intern — to learn strategies for helping your teen develop healthy sleep habits. You may even want to try some yourself!

It can be hard to imagine talking with your teen about suicide. But given that it is the second leading cause of death among young people, it makes sense to be prepared to have that conversation. How can we as parents create a safe, nonjudgmental space where our teens feel comfortable talking about hard things? How do we know when to worry and how to get help? Join us for today’s podcast episode, where we talk with two CHC experts, Katie Reeves, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Jason Tinero, Doctoral Psychology Intern, to hear what all parents should know about teen suicide.

The journey is where we all learn to do hard things. We make mistakes, experience successes (and failures), develop resilience, practice growth mindset and build self-confidence. As parents, if we focus on the destination — winning the race, acing the SATs or getting into the “right” college — our children miss out on all those experiences that serve as the building blocks to social emotional growth. In this podcast episode, we sat down with Jenn Curtis, MSW, co-author of The Parent Compass, to learn strategies that you can use to support your child on their journey towards self-advocacy, acceptance and exploration. Listen now!

We are all different. As parents and caregivers, it’s important to teach our kids how differences enrich our lives and enhance our communities. How can you help them value diversity and see it as a strength? In today’s podcast episode, CHC experts Tony Cepeda, LMFT and Liberty Hebron, LPCC explain how to encourage an open dialogue with your kids, model curiosity and respect, embrace each other’s differences and create a culture of belonging.

From panic attacks to self-harm, one brave mom shares her story of supporting her daughter with anxiety and depression. When you’re worried about your child, your days revolve around gathering the resources and help that they need. But what about you? Your emotions as a parent may exacerbate your own mental health challenges, and raise feelings of self-doubt or blame. Don’t miss our conversation with Kimm Angel, as she shares strategies for supporting your child (and yourself), what she knows now and what she wishes she knew then.

Starting kindergarten is both exciting and scary — for children and their parents. Young children thrive when they feel comfortable, safe and secure. But it can be challenging to help your child feel prepared when everything feels so uncertain right now. What can you do to make the leap less worrisome and more fun? Listen in to today’s podcast episode with our guest, Dr. Natalie Pon, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist at CHC, as she reminds us that — in addition to learning letters and numbers — the real growth that occurs in kindergarten is the development of social emotional skills through play.

We see images and hear conversations about racial injustice almost every day. As a parent, you might find it easier to be silent or ignore, but it’s important to view these as opportunities to talk with your kids about what they are seeing and hearing. How do you have those conversations with your kids? For each family, this conversation might look a bit different, depending on your own heritage and experience. Listen in today as we talk with Dr. Gloria Morrow, a nationally recognized clinical psychologist, speaker and author, about how to talk with your kids about race and racism.

Trauma-informed parenting — it might sound like something more extreme than you need. But the same strategies can help every parent and caregiver feel more equipped to respond to children's behaviors, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. Listen in to this podcast episode, as Dr. Pardis Khosravi, licensed psychologist at CHC, explains what trauma means, how it might manifest among various age groups, and how we can connect with our kids so they feel loved and validated.

There could be any number of reasons why one may not be living their best life, especially right now. But if your child or teen is struggling with communication, behavior or relationships, or no longer wants to participate in things that they used to enjoy, it may be time to seek help. How do you convince them that it’s time to take that step? And what can you expect when you get there? We sat down with Dr. Vidya Krishnan, Head of Adolescent Mental Health Services at CHC to find out. Tune in to this episode to learn how to introduce the idea of therapy to your child or teen, overcome reluctance, and get them not just on board, but engaged in their mental health journey.

Parenting a teen can be challenging, especially in a pandemic. Our teens are struggling right now for many reasons, and parents are grappling with how to support them in a meaningful way. How can you be a sounding board for your teen and really connect with them without trying to fix the problem or seem dismissive? Listen in to this podcast episode with Jennifer Leydecker, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Clinical Manager at CHC as she shares her experience and expertise from years of working with teens. She will share important strategies that you can use to communicate and connect with your teen.

As more and more people are vaccinated and COVID restrictions ease, the time has come for us to figure out how to re-enter the world. While many have been longing to get back to ‘normal,’ others are not so sure they’re ready. According to a report from the American Psychological Association (APA), about half of Americans are feeling anxious about re-entry after sheltering in place for so long. In this podcast episode, we sat down with licensed clinical psychologist and CHC’s Chief Clinical Officer, Dr. Ramsey Khasho, to talk about how to ease our way back into the world and support our kids in that process.

Everyone in the entire world is experiencing some kind of stress right now. And everyone’s reactions to the stressors of the past year have been different – even among members of the same family. By validating these individualized responses, practicing healthy coping strategies and building self-esteem, parents can leverage difficult days to model resilience for their kids and prepare them for future challenges. Join us for today’s podcast episode as CHC’s Tony Cepeda, LMFT and Karly Crockett, LCSW share their expertise on the various manifestations of stress, trauma and grief and ideas for supporting your family through hard times.

Prolonged uncertainty can lead to anxiety in both children and adults, compounded by the layer of risk that has been added to our daily lives for over a year now. As communities begin to reopen, we are faced with additional stressors of getting reacquainted with the people and places that were off-limits for so long. For those with social or situational anxieties, sheltering-in-place may have brought comfort and control, and even the anticipation of re-entry can be debilitating. But these stressful times can also be a teaching moment, for us to validate our kids’ feelings and model healthy coping strategies. In this episode, we sat down with CHC’s Dr. Joan Baran and doctoral psychology intern Beth Moroney to find out how.

It’s a given. Parenting is hard work. Raising a child with special needs brings parenting to a whole new level; an unexpected journey. Nobody can really prepare you for it — you just have to live and learn and take it day-by-day, especially in a pandemic. Today’s podcast episode features Dr. Joaquin Burciaga, a neuropsychologist at CHC and dad of a daughter with special needs. Hear about Joaquin’s parenting journey, what he and his wife have learned, how they make it work for their family and find joy in the process. Listen today!

It’s hard to see our child struggling in school without comparing them to other kids or wanting to “fix” them. But once we recognize that there is no such thing as average, we can learn to appreciate our children’s differences, understand their challenges and foster their strengths. Today’s podcast guest, Dewey Rosetti, is a parent of a child with dyslexia and the author of a new book, Parenting Bright Kids who Struggle in School. She shares her experiences as a mom, an author and an advocate for the 1 in 5 with learning differences, and offers advice for parents to help develop and celebrate their children's unique strengths.

Parenting in a pandemic is hard, and each age has specific developmental needs that are challenging to meet in isolation. The work of young children is to build language and social skills, much of which happen through family relationships, play and social interaction with peers. With kids spending so much more time at home and online, it’s important to create lots of opportunities for our young children to practice these skills in other ways. We sat down with Shirit Megiddo, Speech & Language Pathologist at CHC, to learn how to support your young child’s development, often using existing routines and items you already have around the house!

Currently, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is the only well-established, evidence-based treatment for self-harming adolescents at high risk for suicide. In today’s podcast episode, hear one mom’s brave story of helping her teenage daughter through panic attacks, PTSD and self-harming behaviors using DBT skills like mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness and communication, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance. We are so grateful that she is willing to share her life-changing journey with us.

How do you even start the college conversation without your child shutting down or storming off? In today’s episode, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Katie Reeves, shares communication strategies for launching meaningful discussions with your teens about college, COVID, mental health, and more.

As a parent in a pandemic, you feel like you have to be superhuman or you’re not doing enough. The reality is that if you can be kinder to yourself, you will also be happier, more resilient and compassionate with others. In today’s episode, Pardis Khosravi, PsyD, Licensed Psychologist at CHC, shares three key steps toward self-compassion.

Distance learning is hard, even for kids without emotional or behavioral challenges. Not to mention the strain on parents working remotely while trying to support their child’s at-home education. We sat down with behavioral expert Jody Miller, MEd, BCBA, to hear her best strategies for promoting and positively reinforcing good behavior, as well as what steps to take when your child is struggling.

Today’s podcast highlights a few favorite excerpts from some of our previous episodes, including Top 3 Mindfulness Strategies to Reduce Stress (Episode 5), Best Strategies for ADHD & Distance Learning (Episodes 8 & 9), Family Dynamics While Sheltering in Place (Episode 11) and more. We hope it brings a smile to your face and perhaps even makes you want to go back and listen to the episodes that resonate most.

We are all feeling the strain of living, working and schooling under one roof. It is a challenging time for families – if there has ever been a need for compassion, it certainly is now. We sat down with Jennifer Leydecker, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Clinical Program Manager at CHC, to get her expert advice on ways to reduce stress and add compassion to your family dynamic. Spoiler alert: take care of yourself first!

While most young people have been spared from the severe physical effects of COVID-19, our children are reeling from the anxiety, fear and isolation the pandemic has caused. What are the best ways for you as a parent to support your child’s mental health? In this podcast, hear from Tony Cepeda, LMFT, who has over 30 years of experience helping families learn creative coping strategies to foster resilience and connectedness.

Parenting a teen is filled with challenges and joys. Right now it probably feels like you are experiencing most of the challenges. Tune in to hear this podcast with Dr. Joan Baran, Clinical Director at CHC on parenting with C.A.L.M. – an adaptable technique you can use today!

The ripple effect of kindness is really true. Host Cindy Lopez guides a discussion with Kendra Evans Fraka, MSW and Vibha Pathak, OTD, OTR/L about how noticing differences can help raise mindful, compassionate kids - and so much more.

5 Senses. Drop the Anchor. Crunchy snacks. Do you practice mindfulness with your kids or students? Dr. Jennifer Salomon shows us how.

On Part 2 of "I Will Get By," Liza Bennigson shares what she's learned about adult self-care, how to start difficult conversations with your kids and tips from CHC clinicians for hanging on during hopeless moments.

Liza Bennigson dives into talking about her unfiltered experiences being a working mom who feels like most of us, wondering, will there be any end in sight?