We are all unique, and that is something to be excited about! Yet, sometimes, our environment—from social spaces to classrooms—can make our differences feel less exciting. For kids who are neurodiverse, it can sometimes feel downright uncomfortable, stressful, and isolating. Luckily, there are many ways that grownups can support neurodiverse kids so they feel more connected and successful.

As we navigate the world, it's important to have tools that help us feel prepared and secure, especially when facing difficult moments. In therapy, one of those important tools is a safety plan.

Whether you’re a kid or a grownup, important conversations about big topics can be awkward and “cringy.” Yet, we know that honest, brave, and supportive conversations prior to your child’s first session can help them feel less worried and more invested in the experience.

We all know that sleep is a crucial component of mental health. Learn how you can help your teen prevent sleep deprivation.

Does your kid, teen, or college student mention TikTok trends you’ve never heard of? We're here to demystify two recent hashtags and debate the science behind the trends.

One of our favorite approaches to supporting parents more effectively in managing their child’s behavior, parenting in ways that align with their personal goals and values, and building their relationship with their child is Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT).

Pack away your scales and grab a cozy seat (preferably one near your snack stash) because today, we're diving fork-first into the revolutionary world of "Anti-Diet" by Christy Harrison!

Communicating with teens can be tricky - and attempting to do so over text can be even trickier! That’s why we’re here with a few tips to help you improve your teen texting skills!

Sh!t, school starts Monday! Get real about what you can do this weekend!

When kids become young adults, it becomes tricky to know when to scaffold emotional support – let alone stop subsidizing their daily expenses. Learn more about when NOT to give your young adult money.

April 2023 will be a month of religious and cultural significance for many communities worldwide. Whether you're planning a trip or simply enjoying some time at home with your family, it's important to take care of your mental health during this time. As DBT and ACT therapists, we offer gentle reminders to help you make the most of your holiday season and/or spring break.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based therapy that can help with symptoms of anxiety, depression, and mood dysregulation. DBT originated as therapy for adults but has long been adapted for effective use with kids and teens. When kids are often stuck in certain ways of thinking, have difficulty managing strong emotions, or struggle with relationships, DBT might be the therapy for them.

When Valentine’s Day comes around each February, it is traditional for people of all ages to express their love and appreciation for those around them. From a young age, children exchange cards, notes, and even small gifts or candies to show their care for others. The practice of expressing love and appreciation for others on Valentine’s Day is enjoyed by many. It can feel so special to receive a loving or validating message from someone in your life! But what if we turned the tables? What would happen if we, instead, gave ourselves the same love and validation that we give to others? And what if we could teach our children to love and validate themselves just as much as they love and validate their friends, classmates, and loved ones?

How often do you hear, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year '' during the holiday season? On the radio, at work, or from our closest friends, this sentiment is all around. Some people like to describe this time of year as “merry and bright”, but if you’re like me living in Chicago, it actually feels pretty cold and dark (keep an eye out for snowstorms!). It’s important for us to recognize that for many people the holiday season is not always the most wonderful time of the year. Simply put, the dialectic - the holiday season is joyful AND the holiday season is difficult - is important to keep in mind as we interact with family and friends.

Parent Management Training (PMT), also known as Parent Training, provides parents with the support they need to build stronger relationships with their children and reduce unhelpful behaviors.

As the winter holidays approach, many families are making time for their annual traditions. Families gather and dedicate time to beloved traditions, cultural practices, spiritual beliefs, and holiday activities… for some this includes passing around delicious dishes, spending quality time together, and giving thanks. While cooking a full holiday meal may not be practical all year round, why should the tradition of “giving thanks” and practicing gratitude be limited to particular holidays or events each year?

Welcome to your basic introduction to gender-inclusive language! Using gender-inclusive language is one way you can actively work toward gender equity and justice. Using this type of language means writing, texting, and speaking in a way that includes all genders and sexes.

It’s October… which means Halloween time!!! This beloved holiday is a time to be creative, have fun, and... eat way too many handfuls of candy corn! It’s also a time when cultural appropriation is very present. At Mind, we believe in honoring the backgrounds, cultures, races, religions, and other important factors of children and families. We know that our staff, clients, and community believe in respect and kindness, too.

Everyone experiences pain. But sometimes that pain turns into suffering or even misery. For young people struggling with anxiety, depression, racial/oppression-based stress, or other challenges, it feels very difficult (and sometimes impossible) to tolerate pain. As a result, they may attempt to alleviate pain with strategies that ultimately transform that pain into suffering. When pain turns into suffering or misery, doing what is important to you, making connections, and caring for yourself becomes very, very difficult.

It’s hard to say something original about parenting. Every cliché you’ve heard about parenting you already know to be true:

“You’ve never felt such love.”

“You’ve never been so tired.”

“It’s an incredible, life-changing experience.”

“It’s brutal.”