Parents can help sons and daughters in unhealthy relationships By Cary and Tonja Rector “We are very concerned about her relationship with her boyfriend,” she tells the therapist after her daughter has left. “We think he may have pushed her during a recent argument. He seems to be jealous of her other friends and …Read More
Developing empathy is an extended process By Cary and Tonja Rector. When 3-year-old Emily sees her older brother has cut his finger, she grabs her own finger and winces. This “mirroring” effect, where we experience “secondhand” pain, is something we have all felt. Research is demonstrating there is a neurological link between our own …Read More
End power struggles with your child By Cary and Tonja Rector We often encounter parents and kids locked in a power struggle. The issues vary, but the dynamic is the same. Parents are irritated, angry and cannot understand the kid’s behavior. The child continues the behavior—and gets into more trouble with his parent. Certain …Read More
Guiding your teenager’s social media use By Cary and Tonja Rector Think you know your teen’s social media platforms? Facebook, Instagram and Twitter—right? How about Snapchat, Vine, Tumblr and Kik? Ever heard of Pheed? All of these social media sites are available as apps. Kids do not need a computer to access them. As a …Read More
Parents must teach kids about financial realities By Cary and Tonja Rector What parent has not gone through the experience of trying to make a quick stop at Target for a specific item when their preschooler spots a toy he wants. This is not the best time to start teaching your child about resisting …Read More
Females use different tactics but still hurt victims. By Cary and Tonja Rector. Bullying among kids has gained national attention and schools now have programs to recognize and address it right away. Parents are more aware of the issue, and what was once considered a rite of passage during childhood is getting a reappraisal. …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
Protecting your child from sexual abuse starts with information By Cary and Tonja Rector Few situations make parents feel more vulnerable than thinking about how to protect their children from sexual abuse and sexual assault. As child and family therapists, the aftermath of sexual abuse and sexual assault is something we deal with regularly. …Read More