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...
In a world that often feels fast-paced and overwhelming, the practice of mindfulness offers a way to slow down, reconnect, and restore a sense of calm and clarity. Practicing mindfulness is a foundational tool for improving emotional well-being, reducing stress, and enhancing self-awareness. If you're new...
We’ve all been there… your chest tightens, thoughts race, and suddenly, everything feels too much. Overwhelm can sneak up during a busy workday, in the middle of a tough conversation, or just scrolling through your to-do list. When that stress hits hard and fast, you need...
By Barbara K. Stump, MAWhat is grandmacore, and why is it trending? The way it has been described to me is that it is an aesthetic—a lean into feeling cozy, and reflective of a “traditional grandma” way of life. From what I’ve read, heard from...
