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What is EMDR and how can it help?  🧠 EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a therapy that helps your brain process difficult memories and experiences that feel "stuck." Think of it like this: Sometimes our brains hold onto painful memories in a way that keeps us feeling distressed - like a file that didn't get properly saved. EMDR helps your brain "reprocess" these memories so they become less overwhelming. During EMDR, you'll focus on a troubling memory while following specific eye movements (or other forms of bilateral stimulation). This helps your brain naturally process the memory, similar to what happens during REM sleep. EMDR can help with: Trauma and PTSD Anxiety and panic attacks Phobias Depression Grief and loss Performance anxiety Many people find relief in fewer sessions compared to traditional talk therapy, and you don't have to talk about every detail of what happened. Your brain has a natural ability to heal - sometimes it just needs a little help getting unstuck. How EMDR Works During an EMDR session, you will focus on a troubling memory while following specific eye movements guided by the therapist. These eye movements or other bilateral stimuli (such as tapping or sounds alternating between ears) help stimulate both sides of the brain. This bilateral stimulation encourages the brain to reprocess the memory, reducing its emotional charge. Here’s a simplified breakdown of the process: Recall the distressing memory: You bring the memory to mind but do not have to describe every detail. Follow the bilateral stimulation: Your eyes move back and forth, or you experience tapping or sounds. Allow natural processing: Your brain begins to reprocess the memory, making it less intense. Notice changes: Over time, the memory feels less overwhelming, and negative beliefs about yourself may shift. This process helps the brain store the memory in a healthier way, reducing symptoms like anxiety, flashbacks, or panic attacks. A calm therapy room set up for EMDR sessions What to Expect During an EMDR Session If you decide to try EMDR therapy, it helps to know what a typical session looks like: Assessment and Preparation: The therapist will discuss your history and explain the EMDR process. You will learn relaxation techniques to use during and between sessions. Target Memory Identification: Together, you identify the specific memory or issue to work on. Desensitization Phase: You focus on the memory while following the therapist’s guided eye movements or other bilateral stimuli. Installation Phase: Positive beliefs or feelings replace negative ones linked to the memory. Body Scan: You notice any physical tension or discomfort related to the memory and process it. Closure: The therapist helps you return to a calm state before ending the session. Sessions typically last 5-60 minutes. Research supports EMDR’s effectiveness, especially for PTSD. The World Health Organization and the American Psychological Association recognize EMDR as a recommended treatment for trauma. Tara Kong, LPC is accepting new clients for EMDR staring in January. Call or text us today to set up your initial appointment 832-913-7847 or text 281-306-3068. Tara Kong, LPC is an expert in therapy for trauma-related conditions and has specialized training in EMDR.

Reading difficulties can be frustrating for both children and parents. When a child struggles to keep up with reading tasks, it raises an important question: is this just a phase, or could it be dyslexia? Knowing when to seek an evaluation can make a big difference in how your child learns and grows. This post will help you understand the right age for assessment, the warning signs to watch for, and how to find the right psychologist who specializes in learning disabilities. Understanding Dyslexia and Its Early Signs Dyslexia is a common learning disability that affects reading and language processing. It does not reflect a child’s intelligence but makes reading and spelling more challenging. Early identification is key to providing the right support. When can dyslexia be detected? While formal diagnosis often happens during early school years, signs can appear much earlier. Some children show warning signs before they start reading, such as difficulty recognizing letters or rhyming words. However, diagnosing dyslexia too early, such as before age 5, can be tricky because many young children develop reading skills at different rates. The Right Age to Get Your Child Evaluated Most experts recommend considering an evaluation around ages 6 to 8, when children begin formal reading instruction. At this stage, it becomes clearer whether reading difficulties are due to dyslexia or simply normal learning variations. Is there such a thing as too young? Young children (under 5) may not be ready for a full dyslexia assessment. Instead, early screening tools and observations can help identify children at risk. If your child shows early warning signs, you can work with educators or specialists on early interventions without a formal diagnosis. However, you can also consider factors such as if the child has been receiving speech therapy, if there is a family history of dyslexia, then it is important to intervene earlier. At Katy Psychological Services, we have the latest assessment instruments to identify early signs of dyslexia starting at the age of 5. Warning Signs to Look For Parents are often the first to notice when something feels different about their child’s reading progress. Here are some common warning signs that suggest an evaluation might be needed: Difficulty learning letter names and sounds Trouble recognizing common words by sight Slow or inaccurate reading Problems with spelling, often reversing letters or mixing up sounds Avoidance of reading activities or frustration during reading Difficulty rhyming or playing with sounds in words Struggles to follow multi-step instructions involving language Family history of learning disabilities or dyslexia If you observe several of these signs consistently, it’s a good idea to discuss your concerns with your child’s teacher or pediatrician. How to Select a Psychologist for Dyslexia Assessment Choosing the right professional for your child’s evaluation is crucial. Not all psychologists have experience with learning disabilities or dyslexia. Look for these qualities: Specialization in learning disabilities Experience working with children of your child’s age Use of evidence-based assessment tools for reading difficulties Ability to provide clear feedback and recommendations Willingness to collaborate with parents, teachers, and other professionals You can start by asking your pediatrician for referrals or contacting local learning centers... or you can start right here! Our psychologists are experts in evaluating for learning differences (several of us are dual licensed as school psychologists). What to Expect During the Evaluation A thorough assessment usually involves at least three sessions. The psychologist will meet with you first to get a good understanding of developmental history and current concerns. Then the psychologist can give you an estimate of how many hours of testing are needed and give you a price quote. Then your child comes in for the assessment. We will take a comprehensive look at areas of concern, such as your child’s reading, spelling, language skills, memory, and processing speed. We also get current information from your child's teacher(s). The goal is to understand your child’s strengths and challenges, not just to label them. We are invested in helping you learn "why" your child is struggling. After the evaluation, you will meet with the psychologist and receive a detailed report with recommendations for support, which might include tutoring, classroom accommodations, or therapy. Remember, many children with dyslexia grow up to be successful adults with the right help. Can I get diagnosed as an adult? Yes! If you have always struggled with reading but were never tested, we can help. Adults come to us for testing because they are interested in going back to school, or maybe struggling in school, and would benefit from extra accommodations that higher education systems provide.

We highly recommend "Freeing Your Child from Anxiety" by Tamar Chansky Why? When we don't know what to do, Dr. Chansky provides helpful ideas on how to support your child so that he/she feels validated, without you inadvertently giving into the anxiety and accidentally reinforcing it. Where you can purchase: Amazon

Why We Recommend It: This book is a fantastic self-help tool for clients navigating depression, anxiety, anger, and more. It’s based on the principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and comes with worksheets, examples, and exercises you can do on your own or with a therapist. Who It’s For: Teens and adults who are in therapy or considering therapy—and want a structured way to explore their thoughts and emotions. Takeaway Tip: Changing how you think can change how you feel. Small shifts in thinking can lead to big changes in mood. Where to Find: Link

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is more than just trouble focusing; it's a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects millions of children worldwide. The increase in awareness of ADHD has highlighted the critical need for thorough assessments to ensure children receive the support they deserve. Psychologists are central to this process, providing essential knowledge and skills for accurate evaluations. This blog post will highlight the qualifications of psychologists in ADHD assessments, the benefits of a multidisciplinary approach, and the significant advantages of early intervention and tailored treatment plans. The Expertise and Qualifications of Psychologists Psychologists conducting ADHD evaluations bring a wealth of qualifications and expertise to the table. Most hold advanced degrees in psychology, typically completing a Ph.D. or Psy.D. This academic background equips them with a solid understanding of the biological nature of the condition and evidenced based testing methods — crucial tools for diagnosing ADHD. Psychologists also undergo specialized training in child psychology, focusing on both assessment and treatment. This training includes administering standardized tests that capture important cognitive and behavioral elements. For example, tools like the Conners Comprehensive Behavior Rating Scales can provide quantitative insights into a child’s levels of attention, impulse control, and activity levels. Narrow band measures, which assess symptoms more specifically, can further dissect type of ADHD (inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, or the combined type (all three). These include ADHD specific measures, but also complementary tools that measure executive functioning skills (CEFI, BDEFS), an area that is usually underdeveloped in those with ADHD. (Not all executive functioning deficits however, mean that a person has ADHD, it can be due to a variety of other factors that are best deferred to a psychologist to determine after more information has been gathered specific to the person). In addition to education, many psychologists pursue further certifications, such as those from the American Psychological Association, which demonstrate proficiency in administering ADHD evaluations. This foundation is key to effectively distinguishing ADHD from other overlapping conditions, ensuring that children receive the proper diagnosis. Research shows that precise diagnosis can increase the likelihood of effective treatment by 30%. The Importance of a Multidisciplinary Approach Assessing ADHD is a nuanced process that benefits from a multidisciplinary approach involving various professionals. Alongside psychologists, contributions often come from pediatricians, special education teachers, speech and language therapists, and occupational therapists. Each of these experts provides unique insights that are vital for an accurate evaluation. For instance, psychologists might gather information about a child’s behavior in multiple settings — at home, in school, and during social interactions. Kids might display different symptoms based on the environment; for example, a child may struggle to maintain attention in class but can focus intensely during a favorite sport. By collecting input from parents, teachers, and other professionals, psychologists can construct a more complete and accurate profile of the child’s behaviors. There are times when there are comorbid (co-occuring) conditions such as a learning disability, anxiety/depression, and/or oppositional behaviors that accompany ADHD. This teamwork also helps develop comprehensive intervention strategies. When psychologists collaborate with various specialists, they can guide families in navigating a holistic support system tailored to the child's individual needs. Benefits of Early Intervention Research shows that early intervention is crucial for children diagnosed with ADHD. Studies reveal that children receiving support before age 7 are more likely to show substantial improvements in academic performance, social relationships, and emotional health. With timely assessments, psychologists can identify ADHD and its challenges sooner, which serves as the foundation for effective treatment plans. Common early interventions include behavioral therapies, parent training programs, and individualized educational plans (IEPs). These proactive strategies help families understand ADHD better and equip them with practical tools. For example, psychologists can teach parents specific techniques to better manage behaviors at home. These interventions often lead to noticeable improvements in home life and daily functioning. Other times, psychologists can help provide a child with techniques to recognize his/her emotions and how to practice self-regulation. In one study, children with ADHD who participated in early behavioral therapy showed a 50% reduction in disruptive behaviors after six months. Personalized Treatment Plans Every child’s experience with ADHD is unique, making personalized treatment plans essential. After conducting thorough assessments, psychologists are well-equipped to develop tailored interventions that align with each child's specific needs. Typically, treatment plans combine various methods, including behavioral strategies, cognitive-behavioral approaches, and psychoeducation for both the child and their family. By implementing a range of strategies, psychologists can effectively address diverse challenges linked with ADHD. These tailored plans not only promote academic achievement but also support emotional and social development. Psychologists often recommend consistent collaboration among parents, teachers, and other professionals involved in the child's life. This synchrony ensures that strategies are reinforced across different environments. Ongoing assessments also play a key role. By regularly monitoring a child’s progress, psychologists can adjust intervention strategies as needed, making sure they remain effective as the child matures. Notably, children who receive continuous feedback and adjustments to their plans improve their outcomes by up to 25%. The Role of Psychologists in ADHD Evaluations Understanding the critical role psychologists play in ADHD assessments is vital for families facing the challenges of this condition. Their specialized training and qualifications empower them to conduct in-depth evaluations. When combined with insights from a multidisciplinary team, families gain a full understanding of their child's behaviors. Furthermore, early interventions and personalized treatment plans help maximize each child's potential. By recognizing and promoting the essential work of psychologists in ADHD assessments and treatments, we can improve outcomes for both children and their families. By advocating for collaborative and meticulous approaches, we can create nurturing environments where children with ADHD can flourish and realize their full potential. Please feel free to schedule an appointment with one of our psychologists today, so that we can help be a part of the solution to getting you the answers you need to help your child move forward.

Navigating the teen years can be challenging, especially given the pressure of unrealistic beauty standards set by society through social media. Every scroll on platforms like Instagram exposes teens to images of seemingly flawless bodies and edited faces that can warp their self-image. So, how can parents step in to help their teens develop a positive body image during such a transformative time? Challenges Faced by Teens Regarding Body Image Today’s adolescents are constantly influenced by external factors that shape their perception of beauty. Between peer pressure, celebrity culture, and the omnipresence of social media, they often feel inadequate about their physical appearance. For instance, a study found that 70% of teenage girls feel insufficient when comparing themselves to the images they see online. Teens may see influencers flaunting idealized versions of beauty, leading to harmful self-talk and diminished self-esteem. Moreover, research shows that about 54% of teens report feeling increased anxiety due to social media usage, particularly regarding body image. This pressure is compounded by the increasing prevalence of edited photos or physical changes to their body (fillers, liposuction, etc.) leading teens to believe they must conform to unattainable beauty standards. Unfortunately, society often prioritizes looks over talents and intelligence. Therefore, it is vital for parents to nurture a sense of self-worth that transcends appearances. Ways Parents Can Support Positive Self-Esteem in Adolescents So, what can parents do to help their teenagers foster a healthier self-image? Here are several effective strategies: 1. Open Up the Conversation Start by creating a safe space for discussion about body image. Encourage your teen to share their feelings about their bodies. For example, ask open-ended questions like, "What do you feel when you see posts on social media?" By actively listening and avoiding judgment, you make it easier for your teen to express their insecurities. Also ask your teen, "Do you feel better or worse about yourself after scrolling? If the answer is worse, help them to limit their screen time (you can do this on the iPhone, probably Android as well), unfollow platforms that make don't make them feel good. Help them to recognize what sites are uplifting and make them laugh or feel happy. If say they feel it is not a problem, ask them how many hours they think they are spending each day on social media (you can check this together in the settings option of their phone, they and you might be surprised). This can open a discussion about possibly cutting back a little or a lot. Ff they are not open to making any changes (and it does seem to be concerning), this can signal a bigger problem like an addiction that might need further professional help from a therapist or psychologist. There is no "right" or "wrong" time limit, but keep in mind during a school day, they are supposed to be in classes for 8 hours of that day so if your teen is active on their phone 6 of those 8 hours, that seems like it could be very problematic. 2. Promote Health Over Appearance Shift the focus from how bodies look to overall health and well-being. Involve your teen in enjoyable physical activities, such as joining a local dance class or participating in a community sports team. A survey revealed that 72% of teens who engaged in regular physical activity reported a more positive body image, proving the connection between health and self-esteem. If active sports is not of any interest to your teen, work with them to figure out some kind of exercise they would be willing to engage in regularly (weight lifting, walking the dog, cleaning the pool, checking the mail, anything small is a start). 3. Model Positive Behavior Your actions can speak volumes. Share your own experiences with body image, focusing on acceptance and self-love. Make a conscious effort to avoid negative self-talk in their presence, as your attitude can influence their perceptions. When It Might Be Time to Intervene Teach your teen to engage critically with the media they consume. Your teen should not have 24/7 access to his/her phone, too much of a good thing can be unhealthy, and this is dedefinitely one of those things. Sometimes, it might take more parent intervention by limiting the amount of time they spend on social media (you can set these limits on your child's iPhone). Ideally, you want to start this early, before your child even has the privilege of a phone. Set the expectation that a phone is a privilege, not a right. Phones should not be with a teen in their room when they go to sleep. If it's too late for that, see if your teen wants to take some ownership of their social media consumption by setting a limit on what they think is healthy. Help them stick to it (you can set these limits on the iPhone, or through the Bark app, which also notifies you if your teen accesses inappropriate content or receives texts that are risky or harmful). If your teen refuses any limits, you might want to meet with a therapist/psychologist to work on problem-solving this issue together. This is recommended over just yanking the phone from them completely cold turkey. Encouraging Healthy Attitudes Towards Body Image and Self-Acceptance Fostering a positive body image in teens is crucial for their long-term mindset. Here are some effective strategies: 1. Foster Inclusivity Expose your teen to diverse representations of beauty. Seek out books, movies, and social media accounts that showcase different body types and backgrounds. This exposure reinforces the notion that beauty is varied and not confined to a narrow standard. It's sad how our kids go from carefree to so concerned with body image, but it might be good to remind your teen that there was a time that this didn't matter so much. Check out this Dove commercial from the Super Bowl: https://dailycommercials.com/dove-these-legs-super-bowl-2025-ad/ 2. Practice Gratitude for Your Body Encourage your teen to appreciate their bodies for their capabilities. Create a gratitude journal for them to list things their body allows them to do, such as running, dancing, or playing sports. Focusing on functionality can foster a more positive body image. The point is to help them to generate other aspects of their life that they can be proud of, and appearance is just one part of an individual. Practicing gratitude does have research to support it a positive self-image, it's not just a cliche recommendation because other people have said it before, see https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10693196/ for a deep dive. 3. Consider Individual Therapy Individual Therapy such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be a very powerful intervention when a teen works with a therapist/psychologist to counter automatic negative thoughts and recognize patterns that lead to distorted thinking (all or nothing--I'm either skinny or fat, catastrophizing--I'll never get a boyfriend/girlfriend if I stay this way, fortune telling--everyone already thinks I look ugly".) 4. Educate on the Dangers of Diet Culture Discuss diet culture and its potential impact on mental health. Teach your teen to identify and avoid harmful diet trends, emphasizing a balanced relationship with food. Understanding the difference between healthy eating and dieting can lead to a healthier mindset. See https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/dangers-diet-culture/ 5. Encourage Self-Care Practices Incorporate self-care routines that promote self-love and body acceptance. Activities like mindfulness exercises or indulging in favorite hobbies can significantly improve their relationship with themselves. Self-Love is a Life Long Journey In a world dominated by filtered images, it is essential for parents to guide their teens toward healthy body image and self-acceptance. By encouraging open discussions, challenging unrealistic standards, and nurturing individuality, parents can help their teens appreciate their genuine selves. The path to self-love is a continual journey, filled with moments of encouragement and support. Together, parents and teens can work towards embracing their bodies for their capabilities and celebrating who they truly are. If your family is struggling to help your teen with body image issues and self-esteem, consider individual therapy--a therapist/psychologist can be a very powerful ally and support for your teen (and you trying to figure out the best way to help your child. If only this scene could get our teen's attention more than the latest meme (it can by the way, it starts by lessening social media use and learning about mindfulness and appreciating the present).

Navigating the mental health landscape of teenagers can often feel overwhelming for parents and caregivers. Adolescents face unique pressures ranging from academic stress to social dynamics, which can lead to various mental health challenges. Recognizing and addressing these issues is crucial. This guide outlines practical strategies for fostering effective communication and provides resources tailored for parents and caregivers. Understanding Teen Mental Health Issues Teen mental health is critical, significantly impacting a large percentage of young people. Research shows that approximately one in five adolescents experiences a mental health condition, such as anxiety, depression, or behavioral issues. This statistic underscores the need for early intervention and support. Recognizing the signs of mental health issues early can be transformative. Symptoms may include: Sudden mood changes Withdrawal from friends and family Decline in academic performance Understanding these signs allows parents and caregivers to intervene effectively. Additionally, consider factors that may contribute to a teen's struggles, including peer pressure, family issues, and biological factors. Approach the topic with empathy and create an environment that welcomes open dialogue, fostering trust and understanding. Effective Communication Strategies Effective communication is at the heart of a positive relationship between parents and teens. Here are some strategies that can make a difference: 1. Create an Open Environment Establishing a non-judgmental environment encourages teens to express themselves without fear. Reassure them that their emotions are valid and that difficult topics like mental health are welcome. For instance, instead of reacting critically when they share their worries, validate their feelings by saying, “I understand this is hard for you.” Don't follow this statement with, "but", because that cancels out the empathy you are trying to buid. Sometimes teens just want to vent, and they won't feel comfortable doing this if you jump in and try to give advice. Try, "I understand this is hard for you, what would help most right now, for me to listen, or give you some ideas on how to solve this?" 2. Practice Active Listening When your teen opens up, practice active listening. Show genuine interest by maintaining eye contact and nodding. Avoid interrupting. Sometimes, a teen just needs someone to listen without jumping in to solve their problems immediately. This simple act can help them feel supported and understood. 3. Use “I” Statements Using "I" statements can reduce defensiveness and foster constructive dialogue. For example, instead of scolding, “You need to be more responsible,” try expressing concern: “I feel anxious when I see that your homework isn’t getting done.” This approach sets a collaborative tone for discussion. 4. Be Patient and Available Addressing mental health concerns can take time. Remain patient and let your teen know you are available for conversation whenever they are ready. This support fosters an atmosphere where they feel safe reaching out without pressure. 5. Educate Yourselves Together Learning about mental health together can empower both parents and teens. Read articles, watch educational videos, or attend workshops. For example, parents and teens can read the same articles about stress management and then discuss them, promoting shared understanding. Resources for Parents and Caregivers Having access to resources is invaluable when navigating teen mental health. Here are some recommended options: 1. Professional Help Consulting a mental health professional can provide a crucial outlet for your teen. Therapists trained in adolescent behavior can offer support tailored to their needs. Consider reaching out to local counseling centers that specialize in youth mental health for guidance. 2. Crisis Resources It's essential to know where to turn in emergencies. Keep contact details for crisis hotlines, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) or local mental health services. Ensure that both you and your teen are aware of how to access these essential resources. 3. Educational Materials Books and online resources offer valuable insights into adolescent mental health. Consider reading these popular titles together: "The Teen's Guide to World Domination" by Josh Shipp - A practical guide that addresses teen issues with humor. "How to Talk So Teens Will Listen & Listen So Teens Will Talk" by Adele Faber & Elaine Mazlish - A helpful resource on improving communication. 4. Support Groups Participating in support groups for parents of teens facing mental health challenges can provide community and coping strategies. Such groups create a space for sharing experiences and gaining insights from others in similar situations. Moving Forward with Confidence Navigating teen mental health challenges blends understanding, open communication, and access to the right resources. As parents and caregivers, your role is vital in recognizing and addressing these issues, paving the way for healthier future generations. By fostering open communication, creating a supportive environment, and leveraging available resources, both teens and caregivers can embark on a more manageable journey through mental health concerns. Remember, each conversation and understanding moment strengthens resilience and promotes positive mental health.

A new study just published reiterates a growing body of research that indicates that individuals with ADHD who take a prescribed medication for their condition overall provides a protective factor from accidental injury and even death. In the largest investigation of its kind, the present study sought to determine whether ADHD medications (a) are associated with a decreased risk of mortality and (b) show a protective affect against emergency room visits, accidental injuries, and hospitalizations. Using medical records from 217,192 individuals with ADHD (ages 1–24), r esults show that use of any ADHD medication was associated with reduced mortality, unintentional injury leading to emergency room visits, and hospitalizations. Stimulant medications showed stronger effects, reducing mortality, injury, and hospitalization, while nonstimulant medication only reduced risk of injury and hospitalization. Importantly, neither type of medication increased risk of death, underscoring their safety profile. The present study adds to the growing body of literature documenting that ADHD medications are safe and that stimulant medications may offer a protective effect against accidents, unintentional injuries, and overall mortality. It is important for parents to know about this growing body of research supporting the use of medication to treat properly diagnosed ADHD, and its long term benefits. It goes against the common and debunked myth that medication used to treat ADHD lead to addiction (it actually lowers it) or creates a "zombie" child. Those myths prevents individuals from finding potentially effective treatments for the condition in which medication is still at the top of the list for most powerful interventions for treating ADHD. Vasiliadis, H. M., Lunghi, C., Rahme, E., Rochette, L., Gignac, M., Massamba, V., Diallo, F. B., Fansi, A., Cortese, S., & Lesage, A. (2024). ADHD medications use and risk of mortality and unintentional injuries: A population-based cohort study. Translational Psychiatry, 14(1), Article 128. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41398-024-02825-y

Evidenced-based practices are strategies that have solid research behind them that indicate they are likely helpful in improving acacdemic functioning in children when applied as instructed and delivered consistently. I wanted to provide you a link to a common resource I give parents when they come for an evaluation. This site gives research based interventions that are simple and effective to use at home. Please visit: www.interventioncentral.org There you will find helpful strategies for children on numerous topics, including improving reading comprehension, math fluency, organization/study skills, and even help with behaviors such as testing anxiety, increasing motivation, and increasing compliance at home.

CBD Oil and ADHD Management: Too Big a Leap Cannabidiol oil, most often referred to as CBD oil, is a product of the marijuana plant.  I've been hearing a few parents utilizing it as an alternative treatment for ADHD, and I was a bit concerned as I had not heard of any research supporting the claims made.  As psychologists, it is important that we disseminate factually-based information.  Here is the conclusion from one reputable source: The research on CBD oil and other cannabis products as a possible intervention for ADHD does not show effectiveness for managing symptoms, and actually shows increased mental and physical health risks. “We don’t want to misrepresent things, and with CBD oil, it is getting misrepresented,” Dr. Mitchell says. “When people say this works for ADHD, this is going way beyond the data. That’s too big of a leap.” For the complete article, please click on the following link:    http://www.chadd.org/Understanding-ADHD/About-ADHD/ADHD-Weekly/Article.aspx?id=602 The article goes on the discuss the research-based interventions that are supported, including parent-training to better understand ADHD and how to implement tools that work for your child, and medication, particularly stimulants.  (The type of medication is outside our scope, this is best chosen in consult with a pediatric psychiatrist). Two resources that I find helpful and often recommend to parents are as follows: "Taking Charge of ADHD" by Russell Barkley, Ph.D. "Straight Talk About Psychiatric Medication for Kids" by Tim Wilens, M.D. (3rd Edition)

Magination Press is sponsored by the American Psychological Association.  They have complied a list of child-friendly books to help kids through a variety of psychological issues.  Bibiotherapy (a.k.a., therapy through books) is an excellent way for parents to help their children identify with key issues that they may be dealing with, but do not want to talk about directly.  Please take a look and browse through the catalog, it covers a range of concerns from anxiety, depression, self-control, grief, loss, and much more. Click on link below. I hope it's helpful to you or someone you know.

The National Sleep Foundation recommends 9-11 hours of sleep for children ages 6-13 years old and 8-10 hours per night for individuals ages 14-17 years old. This seems like an ever more daunting task as we live in a society with increasing external pressures to maintain high GPA's, along with extracurriculars like sports, band, and leadership activities. While the American Academy of Pediatrics has issued statements indicating that schools should start no earlier than 8:30am, these recommendations have been largely ignored as evidenced by local high school start times as early as 7:20 am. However, it is important for parents to recognize how much sleep plays a role in mental health and how some conditions are more prone to having problems with insomnia. For example, conditions such as depression and anxiety are highly correlated with insomnia. Additionally, up to 73% of children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) endorse sleep issues pertaining to initiating and maintaining sleep. There are a variety of interventions that can be utilized to address insomnia. The first is providing education about establishing good sleep patterns, such as keeping electronics out of the bedroom at night, no televisions, iPads etc. to elicit unecessary light. Electronics should be put away at least an hour before bed. Bedtime should be consistent at the same time each weeknight. Weekends for most adolescents include the chance to sleep in, but parents need to set limits on this as well. Letting your adolescent sleep all day actually does more harm than good. It interferes with his/her natural circadian rythym or natural sleep clock and can make insomia worse. Once good sleep hygiene practices are in place, if this does not improve insomnia symptoms, other interventions can be considered such as melatonin, or other sleep medications that require an evaluation from your child's pediatrician or child psychologist. Psychologists can also work with your child/adolescent on an evidenced-based intervention known as CBT-I, which involves short sessions (4-8) with a trained professional to learn, implement, and follow up on techniques such as sleep restriction, relaxation and relapse prevention, and further education about the sleep process. If your child/adolescent is having ongoing difficulties with insomnia then you may want to consider how a psychologist can help get things back on the right track. Resources: Insomnia in Adolescence Innessa Donskoy and Darius Loghmanee, 2018