Executive Functioning has become a catchphrase in psychology, parenting, and, increasingly, education. Executive functioning is mediated by the frontal lobe. You can think of it as the conductor of the orchestra. Or the chef of a bustling kitchen. You can have very talented musicians, but the orchestra doesn’t do so well without the guidance and…
General
Black history month and psychology: A quick look at research into disparities in need for services and access to mental health treatment. 1946 In the 1940s, psychologists Kenneth and Mamie Clark designed and conducted a series of experiments known colloquially as “the doll tests” to study the psychological effects of segregation on African-American children. Drs. Clark…
race and mental health
These are study tips I share with patients who have ADHD and trouble with planning, organizing and staying on top of tasks. And these same suggestions would be beneficial for most students and learning styles. Review Before Bed Studies show that you remember more when you take 10 to 15 minutes just before you go…
adolescents and young adults
We can have a very hard time being criticized, corrected, or accused – even of the smallest mistakes. One client succinctly said: “it feels like an attack on my character, my very person”. Here are some of the strategies to use to accept criticism. Listen to what a critic is saying. Really listen, try to…
General
Many people find it nearly impossible to talk about their depression, especially to their loved ones. I’ve found that for some of my patients, it helps to put it in writing. I’ve drafted this letter for anyone and everyone who thinks it might be useful. Customize and share as you wish. Dearest (loved one), It…
depression
Just 14 months ago, my vision of a company providing multi-tiered mental health services for the widest range of people in the DMV came to life. Since that time, we have opened two offices, with a third location on the way next year, served the community through psycho-education and consultation for teens in Fairfax County…
General
Occasionally I’m asked to do Q&As by people interested in psychology as a field and/or the practice I’ve developed with Embolden Psychology. What follows are the questions and answers from a brief interview I did recently with an actor who was researching a role. 1.) What fascinates you about psychology? So many things, but what…
Generalinterview series
I have anxious clients learn a visual imagery exercise I call the relaxation place. It involves using all of their senses to mindfully recall the details of a place “that you love, that makes your heart peaceful”. What does it smell like Sound like Taste like What are the colors you see and the feelings…
anxiety
Loss is a universal experience. Grieving takes many forms. Many people truly want to help a friend or family member who is experiencing a severe loss. Words often fail us at times like these, leaving us stammering for the right thing to say. Some people are so afraid to say or do the wrong thing,…
General
We strongly believe in teaming up with community resources and finding the best fit. In keeping with this believe, we recently hosted a meet and greet with North Spring Behavioral Healthcare. North Spring provides multi-faceted services for children and adolescents in Northern Virginia, right outside of DC. The treatment team includes psychiatrists, registered nurses, therapists, social…
presentations
Combined with psychoeducational testing, it helps provide comprehensive information and recommendations to help children and teens six and up.
