Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) are an essential part of special education in the United States. These plans are designed to help students with disabilities and learning differences receive the support they need to succeed in school. What is an IEP? An IEP is a legally binding document...
By Barbara K. Stump, MAWhat are some activities you do to relieve stress, relax, and bring a sense of calmness into your life? Personally, I like to get outside and enjoy nature. However, living up in northern Michigan, the weather does not always cooperate. So,...
By Kara Ferreira Feeling inadequate and powerless can have a huge impact on our lives, leaving us feeling discouraged and trapped in negative cycles of thinking. However, science has shown that individuals are capable of taking action to increase their self-esteem proactively; this process takes some...
By Barbara K. Stump, MA Have you found yourself staring at a blank page wondering how to begin with Art Journaling? To pick up where we left off from the last blog, finding a sketchbook to create an art journal is key. However, that blank page...
By Kara Ferreira We know the feeling – you’re going away on vacation, and you should be excited about it, but the overwhelm of finishing up work, and organizing the family’s packing, and finishing arrangements is stressful. Planning – from packing your luggage, to scheduling activities for...
by Barbara K. Stump, MA As I sat down to write this latest series, I thought some of you might be wondering, “What is Art Journaling?” Art journaling is a creative outlet for expressing one’s thoughts, dreams, and memories in a stress-free way. It can be...
by Kara Ferreira Children spend a majority of their day at school, so it is important that they have a positive and enriching experience while they are there. Unfortunately, not all children have this type of experience. Some children experience bullying, social isolation, or other difficulties...
By Kara Ferreira Animal assisted therapy (AAT) is a growing field of mental health treatment that has shown to be effective in aiding recovery from trauma, anxiety, and depression. AAT provides an opportunity for patients to interact with therapy animals in a safe and controlled environment,...
By Barbara K. Stump, MA February is here- and that means Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. How do you feel about this Hallmark Holiday? Do you embrace it or do you wish it was over yesterday? Regardless of whether you have a special Valentine...
By Kara Ferreira Mindfulness is an important tool for maintaining mental health. It helps us to be more aware of our thoughts, feelings and behaviors, so that we can better manage them in a healthy way. Mindfulness also enables us to stay present in the moment...
