My sister in law who battled cancer for 3.5 years died last week leaving behind three children as her husband had died of cancer almost two years ago (https://www.facebook.com/mullencancerX2/). Grieving is an unavoidable, messy process that all humans experience. Whether it's the death ... Read More about Grieving When the Way Seems Broken
A Counselor’s Tips for Avoiding Back to School Stress by Michelle Nietert, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor
My heart sank as the first email arrived in my inbox this week indicating that the start of school was closing in. As a working mom, I do enjoy when my children return to school creating a decrease in my mommy guilt and childcare costs. I also know before I get to enjoy the respite ... Read More about A Counselor’s Tips for Avoiding Back to School Stress by Michelle Nietert, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor
Talking to Your Child About Self Harm
Self harm is an issue that continues to haunt middle and high school children and their families. As a counselor who has been treating adolescents who self harm for almost two decades, I have a strong desire to equip parents to discuss this topic with their children before they learn about it from ... Read More about Talking to Your Child About Self Harm
Creating Structure with Flexibility
I will be honest. Part of me loves structure because when someone else sets a standard for me to meet, I love showing off and striving for the goal. When I have to set structure for myself, I cringe a little. I am naturally scattered and a big picture person who gets more ideas than I could ever ... Read More about Creating Structure with Flexibility
Anxiety: The Often Unseen Struggle
This morning I got a disturbing call. A student I know had fled her English classroom. She was overwhelmed by the literature and discussion that was to follow. The subject: mental illness. Her distress was caused by her knowledge of her own diagnosis - panic disorder. Was she mentally ill? How ... Read More about Anxiety: The Often Unseen Struggle