by Linda Montalbano, Mental Health Counselor

​Many children and adolescents struggle, whether it be with friendships, school issues, problems within the family dynamic, or something else. It is very common if your child is hesitant to share their worries and problems with you. Therapy is an excellent outlet for children. In therapy, children learn to talk about and work through their problems. They learn healthy coping methods and communication skills. 

How do you know when to take your child to therapy?
It can be nerve-wracking and stressful when you realize your child is struggling. When areas of their lives are affected or become unmanageable, it is a good indicator that your child may benefit from therapy sessions. Some signs include struggles in school performance, changes in friendships and relationships, decreased self-esteem, changes in appetite and sleep habits, and symptoms of anxiety and depression. 

By Sharon Grand, Ph.D.

​If the holidays are over and you are wondering how you will pay your rent or mortgage over the next few months, or staring at your credit card bill with a sinking feeling in your heart, it’s important to know that you are not alone!  Money blues after the holidays is an experience shared by many, especially here on Long Island where the cost of living is significantly more than the national average.

Often after overspending for the holiday, we blame ourselves for being irresponsible. We may hold resentment towards our spouse for their choices, or our wealthier family members for not understanding. There are moments where we may become overwhelmed with feelings of shame, anger, and stress. Olivia Mellan, the author of the book “Money Harmony: Resolving Money Conflicts in Your Life and Relationships” notes in a 1994 article that “It is important for people not to beat themselves up for having screwed up again.  It won’t help you change and it won’t pay the bills.  The important thing is to forgive yourself and take action.”

By Melissa Laks, LMSW

Grounding is an effective way to calm anxiety symptoms. It is a self-soothing tool that you can use when you are having a bad day or dealing with a lot of stress and anxiety. The purpose of grounding techniques allows you to step away from negative thoughts, worries, and feelings and helps keep you in the present and focus on what is going on in the here-and-now. By focusing on the present surroundings, you can become more aware of your safe surroundings and start to feel calmer.

​In this first grounding process,  you identify objects around you to help your brain recognize where you are and that you are in a safe space. ​

by Rukiya Symister, M.A.