Have you ever encountered a child with obsessive compulsive disorder? Bobby (a fictional character) is typical. His day is governed by rituals. His alarm goes off at 5 a.m. He shuts off the alarm twice; even numbers are good. He puts his left foot on the floor, then his right foot. Left is always first; …Read More
Category Archives: General Therapy
When thinking about the holidays, most people focus on family. Family outings, gatherings and traditions are a large part of the holiday season for many people. For a stepfamily, the “family” aspect of the holidays can bring added stress and pressure. Differing traditions and priorities can collide to make the holidays an especially difficult time …Read More
Children need to play—for social, physical and emotional development, and for mental health. As a matter of fact, play is so important for children it is listed as a right by the United Nations High Commission for Human Rights. Unstructured, child-driven play is the primary way children learn about their environment. It provides opportunities to …Read More
By Cary and Tonja Rector A number of years ago we had the opportunity to visit an alternative school that individualized curriculum to meet specific interests of students and foster intrinsic motivation. We talked with an 11-year-old who for the past four months had been working on his chosen project of “How Birds Fly.” His …Read More
By Cary and Tonja Rector Becoming a parent for the first time is amazing. Most parents will tell you it was a pivotal moment, changing them in unexpected ways. While there is lots of information available for expecting or new mothers, information for first-time fathers can be harder to find. This coupled with the fact …Read More
When a child feels conflicted about a stepparent By Cary and Tonja Rector In our work with stepfamilies we often hear about children’s behavior toward a stepparent: “My husband’s daughter doesn’t like me! She is rude and he does nothing about it,” says a woman who sits with her arms crossed during a therapy session. …Read More
Healthy routines and plenty of prep lead to sleep for all By Cary and Tonja Rector Ahh—sleep. It’s what every parent wants for her child and herself. Helping parents establish a good nighttime routine for their children is a regular topic in our work with families. Understanding why sleep is so important and what …Read More
How women can cope with postpartum depression By Cary and Tonja Rector The birth of a baby is a joyous occasion for a family. When postpartum depression becomes part of the experience it can be confusing and frightening. Many women experience feelings of depression in the weeks following giving birth. The “baby blues” are …Read More
An exercise habit can alleviate anxiety and depression By Cary and Tonja Rector You just can’t go wrong with exercising and emotional health. Several times each week we talk with our clients about the importance of the habit of exercise. Research clearly demonstrates aerobic exercise is helpful in treating anxiety and depression. It also …Read More
Help teens avoid the pitfalls of consuming alcohol By Cary and Tonja Rector The summer season is here. It’s an exciting time for teens. Prom, senior ball, graduation—there’s a lot to celebrate. And while parents are happy to see their teen enjoy the activities of high school, they also worry about drinking, especially this …Read More