Depression in Teen Girls Much More Prevalent than Previously Believed

It is no secret that depression is an issue facing many teens, particularly teen girls.  But a large new study published in May has provided some alarming data suggesting that depression among teen girls is much more common than we previously thought.  The study found that by the age of 17, 13.6 percent of boys … Read more

Tolerating Uncertainty

Uncertainty is ubiquitous.  Throughout every stage of life, one must face new circumstances and new questions about the future.  A child starting middle school in the fall has to cope with the challenges of navigating a new school building, meeting new teachers and classmates, and learning how to balance increased academic demands.  A teen who … Read more

8 Tips for Navigating Informal Negotiations with Your Child’s School

When your child has learning differences, informal meetings at school can be a good opportunity to discuss educational services for your child.  Here are some essential tips on how to successfully negotiate in such meetings: Remember – everyone genuinely wants to support the child. The vast majority of teachers and other school personnel truly love … Read more

How to Help your Adolescent Successfully Transition to College

This time of year, thousands of parents are hitting their local big box stores and checking off their college-bound offsprings’ shopping lists: extra-loud alarm clock (check), shower caddy (check), comfy new sheets and pillows (check), bulletin board (check).  In the frenzy of logistics – and strong emotions – that often accompanies leaving home for college, … Read more

How Smartphone Use Affects Our Relationships

Smartphones have become an integral part of our daily lives. While there is no doubt that smartphones have many benefits, they also have the potential to disrupt our relationships and even our mental health! Recent research indicates that smartphone use is a rising cause of relationship problems. It has become very common to use smartphones … Read more

Helping Your Teenager Build Strong Relationships

Adolescence is a time of change, changes in one’s body, in one’s mood, and in one’s relationships.  Helping teenagers form and maintain healthy relationships, especially with peers, is critically important because research has shown that teens who do not have good peer relationships tend to do worse in school and are at risk for behavior … Read more