Divorce can be a difficult and emotional process, especially when children are involved. If you’re going through a divorce and wondering how to talk to your child about it, remember that honesty and reassurance are key. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Be honest: Explain to your child that you and your partner have decided to separate, and that it’s not their fault. Reassure them that you both still love them and will continue to support them.

2. Keep it simple: Depending on your child’s age, keep the conversation simple and age-appropriate. Avoid using complex legal terms or blaming each other.

3. Listen: Your child may have questions or concerns about the divorce. Listen to them and answer their questions as honestly as possible. If you don’t have an answer, let them know that you’ll try to find out.

4. Provide stability: Try to maintain a stable routine for your child as much as possible, including regular visits with both parents. Let them know that although things may change, they can still count on your love and support.

Remember, divorce is a difficult process for everyone involved, but with honesty, reassurance, and love, you can help your child navigate this challenging time. If you find yourself or your child needing a little support, please call 334-676-1883 for a free phone consultation or send us a private message.

Be Well,

Alicia Crum, LPC-S

Setting boundaries with a teenager can be challenging, but it is an important part of parenting. Here are 7 tips on how to set boundaries with a teenager:

1. Be clear and consistent: Make sure your rules and expectations are clear and consistent. Consistency is key when it comes to setting boundaries with teenagers.

2. Respect their independence: Teenagers are seeking more independence and autonomy, so it’s important to respect their need for independence while still setting appropriate boundaries.

3. Involve them in the process: Involve your teenager in setting the boundaries and rules. This can help them feel more empowered and invested in following the rules.

4. Be firm but flexible: Be firm in enforcing the rules, but also be flexible and willing to listen to your teenager’s point of view and make adjustments when necessary.

5. Use positive reinforcement: Praise your teenager when they follow the rules and demonstrate responsible behavior. Positive reinforcement can be a powerful motivator.

6. Set consequences: Make sure there are consequences in place for breaking the rules, but also make sure the consequences are fair and reasonable.

7. Be a good role model: Set a good example for your teenager by following the same rules and boundaries that you expect them to follow.

If you struggle with setting boundaries with your teenager, we’d love to help! Call 334-676-1883 or request an appointment HERE.

Happy Parenting!

Alicia Crum, LPC-S

Childhood trauma refers to experiences during childhood that are emotionally or psychologically distressing and have an adverse impact on a person’s development and well-being. These experiences can include physical, sexual, or emotional abuse; neglect; exposure to violence or substance abuse in the home; or other significant stressors that are beyond a child’s ability to cope with.

Childhood trauma can have long-lasting effects on a person’s mental and physical health, as well as their social and emotional development. People who have experienced childhood trauma may be at higher risk for depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance abuse, and other mental health conditions. They may also have difficulties with relationships, trust, and self-esteem.

It is important to note that not everyone who experiences childhood trauma will develop long-term effects, and there are many factors that can influence a person’s resilience and ability to recover. Supportive relationships, access to resources and mental health care, and a sense of control and empowerment can all help mitigate the impact of childhood trauma.

If you are a parent/guardian and suspect that your child may be suffering from the effects of childhood trauma, call our office or request an appointment here.

Be Well,

Alicia Crum, LPC-S

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), 6.1 million children aged 2-17 years old, living in the United States, has been diagnosed with ADHD. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder, typically first diagnosed in childhood. ADHD can cause abnormally high levels of hyperactive and impulsive behaviors. Many ADHD symptoms such as high activity levels, trouble sitting still, and short attention spans are common in almost all children. It’s important to note that everything that wiggles is not ADHD.

DSM-5-TR Diagnostic Criteria for ADHD:

A. Inattention-six or more of the following symptoms must have been present for at least six months to a degree that’s developmentally inappropriate, and that negatively impacts social and academic activities:

• Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork or other activities.
• Often has trouble keeping attention on tasks or play activities.
• Often does not follow instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or other duties.
• Often has trouble organizing tasks and activities.
• Often avoids, dislikes, or is relunctant to do tasks that require mental effort over a long period of time.
• Often loses things necessary for tasks and activities, such as keys, paperwork, eyeglasses, cellphone, etc.
• Is often easily distracted.
• Is often forgetful in daily activities.

B. Hyperactivity/Impulsivity-six or more of the following symptoms of hyperactivity/impulsivity for children up to 6 yrs old; five or more for children up to 17 yrs old. Symptoms must have been present for at least six months to an extent that is disruptive and inappropriate for the child’s developmental level.

• Often fidgets or taps hands/feet and squirms in seat.
• Often leaves his/her seat in situations when remaining seated is expected.
• Often runs or climbs where it is not appropriate.
• Often talks excessively.
• Often unable to relax or play quietly.
• Often “on the go”, as if the child is being driven by a motor.
• Often blurts out answers before a question is completed.
• Often has trouble waiting their turn.
• Often interrupts or intrudes on others’ conversations or games.

In addition, the following conditions must be met:

• Symptoms were present before the age of 12 years old.
• Several symptoms are present in two or more settings (school, home, etc).
• There’s clear evidence that symptoms interfere with school/social functioning.
• The symptoms aren’t better explained by another disorder such as mood disorder, anxiety disorder, personality disorder, dissociative disorder, schizophrenia, etc.

Based on the symptoms, 3 types of ADHD can occur:

• Inattentive/Distractible Type: Inattention and distractibility without hyperactivity.
• Impulsive/Hyperactive Type: Impulsive and hyperactive behaviors without inattention and distractibility.
• Combined Type: Impulsive and hyperactive behaviors and inattention and distractibility.

Treatment:

• Medication
• Behavioral Therapy
• Psychological Counseling

If you suspect your child may be suffering with symptoms of ADHD, contact your child’s pediatrician or a licensed mental health professional in your community. These professionals can help coordinate services to have your child appropriately evaluated/tested and diagnosed. They may also be able to discuss the most appropriate treatment approach for your child. For more information, contact our office. 

Happy Parenting!

Alicia Crum, LPC-S

Parental alienation refers to a situation where one parent or caregiver attempts to turn a child against the other parent or caregiver through various manipulative behaviors.

This can have serious negative effects on the child’s relationship with the targeted parent and their overall well-being.

It’s important to recognize and address these behaviors in order to protect the child’s best interests and promote healthy relationships between parents and children.

If you’re a parent or caregiver struggling to create or maintain a healthy coparenting relationship, counseling can help. For more information, please contact us here. 

Be Wise and Well,

Alicia Crum, LPC-S

Signs of bullying can vary from person to person, but some common warning signs include:

1. decreased self-esteem
2. withdrawal from friends or activities
3. fear of going to school
4. changes in eating habits
5. signs of physical harm
6. frequent headaches/stomachaches

If you suspect your child or teen is being bullied, it’s important to talk to them, their teachers, coaches, and principal, if necessary, to ensure their safety. Encourage your child to talk to a trusted adult like a teacher or school counselor, if they need help resolving the situation until you (the parent) can intervene.

Unresolved bullying can lead to child/teen depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts and gestures. If you or your child need help addressing ongoing bullying, please contact us here. We’re happy to help.

Happy Parenting,

Alicia Crum, LPC-S

Dear Parent,

It’s understandable to feel overwhelmed and uncertain when you or someone you care about is struggling with depression. Teen depression is a serious issue that can have a big impact on an individual’s life. It can be difficult to recognize the signs and symptoms, so it’s important to be aware of them.

Common signs of depression in teens include low mood, crying spells, difficulty concentrating, irritability, low self-esteem, low energy, drop in grades, lack of motivation, withdrawal from family and friends, and thoughts or talk of suicide.

It’s important to remember that you and your child are not alone and there are resources available to help. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, reach out to a mental health professional for support. There are plenty of online resources available that provide helpful information and advice.

For more information, contact us here.

Be Well,

Alicia Crum, LPC-S

Building a child’s self-esteem can be a challenging task, but it’s an important one for their long-term success and happiness. Here are a few tips to help build your child’s self-esteem and safeguard them from the harmful effects of bullying:

1. Show unconditional love and support. Encourage your child to try new things and praise their effotrs regardless of the outcome. Let me know you are proud of them for taking risks and trying their best.
2. Focus on their strenghts instead of focusing on their weaknesses or areas of improvement. Focus on the things your child does well and celebrate their sucess.
3. Provide positive reinforcement. Positive reinforcement can help your child build self-confidence and self-esteem. Praise them for their hard work and effort and encourage them to keep trying.
4. Show them empathy. Listen to your child’s feelings and validate their emotions. Show them understanding and help them to find ways to cope with challenging situations.
5. Encourage postive self-talk. Help your child talk positely about themselves and their abilities. Remind them of their sucesses, accomplishments, and strengths.

By following these tips and providing your child with unconditional love and support, you can help them build unbreakable self-esteem and confidence! If your child struggles in these areas and could use a little extra support, please request an appointment here. We are happy to help!

Happy Parenting,

Alicia Crum, LPC-S