School

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.

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.

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.

Today’s episode was developed in response to a request from our partners at Palo Alto Unified School District…and while it’s great for all listeners, is intended especially for teachers! Increasingly, educators are being asked to manage not just the academic and social-emotional wellbeing of their students, but also address mental health challenges and learning differences in the classroom. We know it’s not possible to do it all, but today’s podcast episode shares some structures and strategies to support struggling students and promote a safe, positive learning environment for all. In addition to tips and takeaways, CHC’s Esther B. Clark (EBC) Schools staff Krislyn Li Conklin, MA and Kaila Sugiyama, MA, LMFT, remind teachers that “recognizing your own humanity in all of this is the most important.”

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.