This blog is written by the clinicians at Jonah Green and Associates, a mental health practice based in Kensington, MD that provides quality services for children, teens, families, and adults. It is intended as a resource for families who are seeking to expand their knowledge about mental health and mental health services, and also as a resource for families who are seeking quality mental health services, especially in the mid-Atlantic region.
Talking to your child about going to therapy can feel daunting. You might be rightly concerned that they could view it as a punishment or a sign that you think there is something “wrong” with them. By approaching the conversation in an attuned and thoughtful way, you might find that your child is more open
While family therapy is primarily a method for helping families resolve conflicts and enhance their relationships, it can also alter how individuals perceive and speak to themselves. As family members communicate more openly and listen with compassion, they begin to embody that kind of understanding and kindness within their minds, transforming their internal dialogue and
Teenage years are demanding, with adolescents facing increasing academic responsibilities, social pressures, and physical, cognitive, and emotional changes. While many teenagers thrive, others experience difficulties such as depression, anxiety, poor school performance, eating disorders, substance abuse problems, and conduct issues. Conflict within families may also increase as teenagers alternately reject adult directions, demand privileges, or
The therapeutic power of playing with your kids—and how to get started Play is children’s primary language and the foundation of adequate mental health treatments for kids. As a child and family therapist, I rely on the magic of play to treat kids with a wide range of difficulties, such as anxiety, depression, behavioral issues,
Childhood trauma can result from acute or prolonged emotionally or physically threatening experiences, including abuse or neglect, accidents, illness, familial conflict, loss, violence and bullying, or discrimination. Traumatized children may feel overwhelmed, helpless, or shocked and have difficulty processing their experiences. Signs of trauma include prolonged anger, sadness, or fear; numbness; nightmares or flashbacks; irritability;