Teenagers, this post is addressed to you. Some of you aren't aware if one of your friends has had too much to drink or has overdosed on drugs, but others of you can tell. For those of you who can tell, you may fear calling an ambulance or dropping a friend at the...
For some of you, you have had the same core group of friends ever since you started school. Your group is so tight-knit that hardly anyone new joins and hardly anyone leaves. There are also some of you who have that one best friend. You have been best friends...
If your child is already a teenager then your days with them are numbered. It won't be long until your teen strikes out on his or her own. At that point your relationships changes. I don't say this to be a Debbie Downer. I want you to be intentional with your...
The use of "Molly" is on the rise. I've even encountered several teens coming through my office that have abused the drug. This is scary because it is MUCH more dangerous than they realize. If you see your teenager texting about it, or overhear them talking about...
In therapy I have many conversations with teens about character qualities they need to develop in order to be functional adults. While conversations are helpful, lessons are better "caught, not taught." Mom and Dad, you are in a better position to reinforce...
This past week I met with a psychologist who specializes solely in the treatment of anxiety disorders. He had some really interesting things to say, and I paraphrased a couple of them in this video. The bottom line though is that you CAN'T give up when you're facing...
It's still in its early phases of testing, but one Toronto Emergency Room has put ER doctors on the path to reducing prescriptions given to "med seeking" patients. A fair number of patients who go to see a doctor fake pain or illness in order to obtain a...
Teenagers like it when you listen. They will talk if you can refrain from judging or interrupting the things they would like to share with you. Helping teens grow and families improve connection, Lauren Goodman, MS, MFT
Marijuana is everywhere. If your teenager isn't using it, they know at least five other adolescents who are. Teenagers have a very lackadaisical attitude towards the drug. They generally don't think much about the physical health consequences of inhaling smoke/vape...
Every week in my counseling office, I sit across the room from at least one Orange County teenager who is struggling with codependency. They do not usually realize this is their struggle. Their parents call me because their child is feeling a lot of anxiety, or has...
Hello, I’m Lauren! If you notice your teen struggling, you might be feeling helpless, hopeless, frustrated or concerned as a parent. Try to remember, there is hope. I want to help your adolescent feel better. My hope is for them to enjoy their life again. I want them to feel confident they can handle whatever situations arise.
