We see this word a lot these days, from comfy couch pillows to memes with scenic sunsets- but gratitude really is a thing! According to the Oxford Dictionary, gratitude is “the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness.”

Grief is among the hardest conditions we face as humans. Rather than a fixed state of being, grief is a process that an individual (or collective group) moves through to integrate a loss into our present sense of self and our understanding of the world.

Anna Lemke’s book Dopamine Nation is relevant to all of us living in a dopamine flooded environment, but those who struggle with addictive behaviors (substances, electronics, behaviors, etc) will find the case examples to be especially relatable and informative.

It’s August, which means it is just about time for school to start. While the return to school can be a wonderful time for kids excited about school- and parents who have been juggling conflicting time commitments all summer, the transition back to school can also be difficult for kids and families. Change in routines can be hard-especially for kids who need more time to adjust to changes.

As a therapist, many parents come to me seeking help in supporting their kids through difficult feelings. Parents want to be emotionally available for their child but often struggle to create the type of relationship where their kids feel emotionally supported.