Stress is a common experience, but managing it effectively is key to maintaining both mental and physical health. One of the simplest and most accessible ways to reduce stress is through intentional breathing techniques. Focusing on your breath can help calm your nervous system, lower...
A Guide for Parents on When to Seek Professional Help Adolescence is a time of big changes—emotionally, socially, and developmentally. It’s normal for teens to feel awkward in social settings or go through ups and downs with friendships. But when do these struggles go beyond typical...
The Importance of Self-Love in Healthy Relationships Healthy relationships, whether with a partner, friend, or family member, often start with a strong relationship with oneself. While it may sound hokey, at the heart of this lies self-love, a deep respect and appreciation for who you are....
By Barbara K. Stump, MAHave you ever visited a lavender field? Maybe near your home town? Or, maybe you have been fortunate to visit Provence, France? Wow, lucky you if you have had that experience! Well, last week, I visited a lavender field on Old...
How to Understand the Difference and Support Your Child Effectively It’s a scenario many parents know all too well: Your child has an assignment due tomorrow. It’s been on their to-do list for a week, but somehow it’s still untouched. You remind them—again—and they shrug or look...
By Barbara K. Stump, MAWhat do you think the most popular form of exercise is? Pickleball is definitely gaining in popularity, and I do love to play, but surprisingly walking is the most popular. The American Heart Association says, “When it comes to simple ways...
As therapists who work closely with teens and families, we’ve seen firsthand how much pressure middle and high school students are under—especially when it comes to schoolwork. Between juggling classes, sports, social lives, and digital distractions, it’s no wonder so many teens feel overwhelmed and...
Have you ever wondered why some people seem to effortlessly plan their day, stay organized, and bounce back quickly from setbacks, while others struggle with these same tasks? The secret often lies in a set of mental skills called executive functioning — the brain’s command...
It’s a familiar scene for many parents and educators: "I can’t do this!" "I’m just not good at math." "I’ll never be as smart as them." Sound familiar? These kinds of statements are often signs of a fixed mindset—a belief that abilities and intelligence are set in...
Starting college is an exciting time—a chance to explore new ideas, meet new people, and grow into adulthood. But let’s be real: it can also be overwhelming. Academic pressure, social dynamics, and increased independence all hit at once, and not every student is equipped with...
