Dr. Lena Agree, JD, PsyD – Licensed Psychologist and AssociatesDr. Lena Agree, JD, PsyD – Licensed Psychologist and Associates

Parenting

The Negative Effects of Technology on Teens – and How to Help

The Negative Effects of Technology on Teens – and How to Help

By

Written by Aleena Hellebyuck, MA, CAADC-DP Learn how social media, screen time, and online culture are shaping your teen’s emotional health and what you can do to help them build balance, resilience, and self-esteem in a digital world. The Digital World Teens Are Growing Up In Technology is woven into nearly every aspect of modern teenage life. From smartphones and social media to gaming and streaming platforms, adolescents are living in a world that’s always online. While digital tools provide connection and creativity, they can also contribute to anxiety, comparison, and overstimulation,  all of which affect emotional well-being and development. As a therapist, I often hear parents say, “I don’t even recognize my child anymore — they seem anxious, withdrawn, or distracted…

Read More
Getting Divorced? How to Help Your Child Thrive

Getting Divorced? How to Help Your Child Thrive

By

Written by Aleena Hellebyuck, MA, CAADC-DP Even though a divorce is typically about disagreements between two partners, the impact of divorce can take a toll on everyone in the household… especially children. While you are navigating the ending of your relationship, there are many things that children need to feel stability and support through these life transitions. One option to consider is to invest in counseling for divorced parents, which can help you and your ex-partner work together to ensure your children feel secure. What Is Parenting (Co-Parenting) Counseling? Counseling for divorced parents focuses on helping former partners develop effective co-parenting skills to resolve their disagreements, allowing them to prioritize their children’s well-being. Traditional therapy is often structured for partners…

Read More
How to Talk to Your Teenagers So They’ll Actually Listen and Love You

How to Talk to Your Teenagers So They’ll Actually Listen and Love You

By

Your child’s brain grows until about age 25. During the teenage years, the brain undergoes vast neurological changes. Parenting teenagers through this storm of dramatic mood swings and behavior shifts may sometimes seem impossible. The good news is you don’t have to be an expert. If you take an active interest in your teen’s mental experience, and seek to understand him with sensitivity and genuine curiosity, you will maintain access to his internal world while contributing to his emotional resilience. Engage, empathize, investigate Perhaps the most important step you can take when you notice distress in your child is to stop what you are doing, give her your full attention, and empathize with her feelings. (This does not require you to agree with the reasons, or even fully understand…

Read More