kids Archives - Hope Heal Change

Tag: kids

Understanding the Roles in Dysfunctional Families

Posted on July 30, 2024August 5, 2024 by hopehealchange

by Tara Yombor From family dysfunction to slightly more functional families One of my favorite topics as a therapist, specifically working with clients who are in recovery from addiction, is educating them on the roles in dysfunctional families. While working in treatment centers for drugs and alcohol, inevitably, at least one or two groupsa week would land on the topic of family dynamics. I’ve always said, “you can pick your friends, but you can’t pick your family.” What is family dysfunction? You might be asking, what is a dysfunctional family? What are the roles in dysfunctional families? Is my family dysfunctional? How do the different roles come to exist? How can they “benefit” from each other to create a toxic environment? Let me start by saying that every family is dysfunctional – yes, even yours! It’s important to note that there is no “perfect family.” Human beings are dynamic, flawed, and unique. The intensity and impairment of the dysfunction Read more [...]

The Do’s and Don’t’s of Supporting Your Child Through Their Therapeutic Process

Posted on March 7, 2024July 9, 2024 by hopehealchange

Providing therapy for kids and adolescents is something I look forward to everyday that I come into the office. Sadly, many therapists miss out on that opportunity. If many therapists are being open and honest, a part of the reason they turn away minors is because they don't want to have to manage the parent(s) on the side. However, I find that just about every parent is great at letting me do my job as long as we establish the boundaries and expectations of their child being in therapy with me. They are more concerned with supporting their child during therapy. Many parents ask me, "What should I ask after session?" or "Should I say anything at all about the therapy?" It can be a helpless position--Investing money into the process and then having to be a bit in the dark for a stretch of time. The good news--you'll eventually get feedback in regards to the case and we always begin the process with a parent meeting. But waiting for the feedback requires patience and trust. A parent needs Read more [...]

The Power of Counseling: Unlocking the Benefits for Elementary Kids

Posted on October 11, 2023July 9, 2024 by hopehealchange

Elementary school is a crucial time in a child's life, where they develop essential skills, build friendships, and begin to navigate their emotions. However, not all children sail smoothly through these formative years. Some may encounter challenges that affect their well-being and hinder their overall growth. This is where counseling steps in as a powerful tool, providing elementary kids with the support they need to thrive. Let's explore the benefits of counseling for these young minds. 1. Emotional Well-being: Elementary children often struggle to express and understand their complex emotions. Counseling offers a safe space where they can freely explore their feelings and learn healthy coping mechanisms. By working with a trained counselor, kids develop emotional resilience, becoming better equipped to handle stress, anxiety, anger, and grief. This emotional well-being lays a solid foundation for their future mental health. 2. Improved Academic Performance: A child's Read more [...]