Jacqueline and Robin would like to extend their heartfelt thanks as they wrap up two incredible seasons of their Successful Parenting podcast. They've cherished every moment of laughter and engaging conversation with their guest experts and listeners. Your support and participation have made these seasons unforgettable! Jacqueline and Robin have made the difficult decision to end their podcast, but not their commitment to supporting families. As they conclude their podcast, they encourage you to continue listening, sharing, and following them on social media for updates and future opportunities to engage with Successful Parenting. For now, they wish everyone a healthy and fulfilling rest of the year. So long and thank you for being part of this amazing journey! How to get in contact with us: Home - Center For Emotional Wellness Northwest Elite Performance Counseling, Inc. – Psychological and Consulting Services
During this episode, Jacqueline and Robin are reflecting on the highlights of Season Two, expressing gratitude for their listeners and the valuable insights gained from them, both personally and professionally. As they gear up for Season Three, they're excited to introduce a new format that integrates listener experiences and knowledge on parenting, promising a fresh perspective on important family topics. Their dedication to addressing pressing issues like the impact of technology, mental health, and relationships underscores their commitment to providing relevant and valuable content for their audience. By gathering feedback from schools and mental health programs, they aim to stay informed about trends affecting families and incorporate these insights into their discussions. Encouraging listeners to stay engaged over the summer through social media, sharing tips, and being available to answer questions and engage in important conversations reflects their commitment to supporting their community year-round. With their return set for August 19th, anticipation is surely building among their eager listeners for the start of Season Three. See you very soon! Parenting information: SUCCESSFUL PARENTING (successfulparentingplan.com) Follow us Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, TikTok, and Twitter Successful Parenting Workbook, available on Amazon Email: SuccessfulParentingPlan@gmail.com
Welcome back to the second part of our enlightening series on supporting our children’s emotional health through physical well-being! In this episode, Jacqueline and Robin continue their deep dive into the crucial topic of body image. Our expert guest, Katie Primak, a licensed dietician, returns to share more invaluable insights and practical tips on fostering a healthy relationship with food for our children. She discusses the essential dos and don'ts of promoting nutritious eating habits, which can lead to improved confidence and a positive body image. Join us as we explore effective strategies for healthy nutrition and its role in emotional well-being, fun and engaging ways to connect as a family over meals, creative activities that promote learning and bonding, and the impact of nutrition on mental health, school engagement, and athletic performance. This episode is packed with actionable advice and heartwarming stories you will not want to miss. Tune in for all the insights in supporting your child’s journey to a healthier, happier self. Katie Primak, RD, LDN Katie Primak is a Registered Dietitian, working in private practice in Crystal Lake and Hoffman Estates, IL. She received her Bachelor’s of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics from San Diego State University and completed her Dietetic Internship thru Sodexo Distance Education Program. Katie holds over 19 years of Eating Disorder experience specializing in the collaborative treatment for the full spectrum of eating disorders. Katie currently consults for ERC (Eating Recovery Center) as an Eating Disorder Dietitian for over 2 years and also worked at Alexian Brothers/Amita health care as an Eating Disorder Specialist in both the ED inpatient and outpatient programs for a total of 18 years. Katie currently runs her private practice for nutritional counseling; specializing in weight loss, food allergies, and eating disorder, pregnancy, diabetes, and etc. Today, Katie uses her skills in nutrition and food therapy by helping people improve their relationship with food and their bodies. Katie is currently Certified in Eating Disorders and Education and holds the title CEDRD. She enjoys teaching groups ( meal groups/ cooking groups/ process groups), continually researching newly updated health information and providing the best nutrition care with a team approach. She is passionate in her efforts to help all age groups with understanding the effects of food on the body. Katie educates clients on the foundational component of properly nourishing your body and making peace with food Katie Primak–RD-LDN - Center For Emotional Wellness Northwest Parenting information: SUCCESSFUL PARENTING (successfulparentingplan.com) Follow us Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, TikTok, and Twitter Successful Parenting Workbook, available on Amazon Email: SuccessfulParentingPlan@gmail.com
One of the most common questions Jaqueline and Robin receive is how to support our children’s emotional health. Research shows the significant impact of physical health on emotional well-being, including the roles of nutrition, sleep, and exercise. Join us for this week's episode, focusing on healthy nutrition and improving our children's relationship with food, which can lead to greater confidence and a positive body image. Our guest expert, Katie Primak, a licensed dietician, shares valuable tips and discusses the dos and don'ts of promoting healthy nutrition, particularly in fostering a healthy relationship with food. The conversation also explores fun ways to connect as a family over meals and suggests activities to encourage creativity and learning. Additionally, listeners will learn how nutrition impacts not only their family's mental health but also school engagement and athletic performance. Katie, Jacqueline and Robin had so much valuable information and engaging discussion that they turned this into a two-part series. You won't want to miss it! Tune in to catch all the insights and advice. See you there!
Listening to Benjamin's journey was both heart-wrenching and inspiring. Despite facing numerous challenges, his courage and resilience shone through, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him. From an early diagnosis of Autoimmune Hepatitis (AIH), Benjamin navigated life with grace and determination. Tragically, on Sunday, January 15, 2023, at 11:15 p.m., Benjamin's life was cut short by gun violence in his beloved hometown of Chicago. In this week's episode, Luis and Angela Lopez bravely share their son's story and discuss the foundation they have established in his honor: The Benjamin Lopez Foundation. Through their grief, Luis and Angela continue to advocate for awareness and change, sharing Benjamin's legacy with the world. Join us as we listen to the Lopez family's journey, a poignant reminder of the boundless love we hold for our children and the importance of cherishing every moment together. The Benjamin Lopez Foundation (benlopezfoundation.org) Donate: The Benjamin Lopez Foundation | Donate (benlopezfoundation.org) Successful Parenting information: SUCCESSFUL PARENTING (successfulparentingplan.com) Follow us Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, TikTok, and Twitter Successful Parenting Workbook, available on Amazon Email: SuccessfulParentingPlan@gmail.com
Join Jacqueline and Robin in this heartfelt Mother's Day special episode as we celebrate the incredible individuals who shape our lives. We examine the profound impact mothers have on us, and explore ways mothers can create healthy self-care. Whether you're a mother, have a mother, caretaker of others, or are simply inspired by the spirit of motherhood, this episode is a tribute to the remarkable role mothers play in shaping who we are and the world we inhabit. Tune in for a touching journey of gratitude, nostalgia, and celebration as we pay homage to the extraordinary individuals who embody the essence of motherhood. Stay till the end to hear from a few of our listeners who share thoughts on Motherhood. Successful Parenting information: SUCCESSFUL PARENTING (successfulparentingplan.com) Follow us Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, TikTok, and Twitter Successful Parenting Workbook, available on Amazon Email: SuccessfulParentingPlan@gmail.com
Jacqueline and Robin are frequently asked by parents, "What are ways we can help our children grow their confidence?" In this week's episode, they tackle this important question head-on. Building confidence in children is a gradual process, requiring careful attention and nurturing. Jacqueline and Robin will share practical tips and strategies aimed at fostering positive self-esteem in children. From recognizing strengths and weaknesses to teaching resilience in the face of adversity, they will explore various approaches to empowering children to believe in themselves. By the end of the episode, parents will walk away with actionable strategies they can implement right away to support their children on their journey towards greater confidence. Successful Parenting information: SUCCESSFUL PARENTING (successfulparentingplan.com) Follow us Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, TikTok, and Twitter Successful Parenting Workbook, available on Amazon Email: SuccessfulParentingPlan@gmail.com
Reflecting on our childhoods, many of us may find that our homes were not always filled with happy memories. Whether due to family dynamics, personal challenges, or other factors, creating a nurturing environment was not always easy. But the good news is, it is never too late to cultivate a healthier and happier home life for us and our families. Join Jacqueline & Robin in this week's episode as they explore practical tips for parents to foster a more positive atmosphere at home, with a focus on building closer connections within the family. Drawing from their own experiences and expertise, they will share actionable strategies to decrease heightened emotions and reactions, allowing family members to recognize their emotional triggers and communicate more effectively. So, if you have ever wished for a more harmonious and loving home environment, this episode is for you. Tune in as we delve into the transformative power of intentional parenting and creating meaningful connections within our families. Together, let us embark on a journey towards building happier homes and nurturing stronger family bonds. Successful Parenting information: SUCCESSFUL PARENTING (successfulparentingplan.com) Follow us Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, TikTok, and Twitter Successful Parenting Workbook, available on Amazon Email: SuccessfulParentingPlan@gmail.com
Every child is unique, and understanding their individual needs is crucial for effective parenting. In this week's episode, Jacqueline & Robin delve into the nuanced art of recognizing and addressing the emotional needs of our children. From tailoring parenting approaches to supporting each child's journey towards realizing their full potential, they'll explore practical strategies and insights. Whether fostering resilience, nurturing creativity, or cultivating a sense of belonging, Jacqueline & Robin will share valuable tips to help parents navigate the dynamic terrain of child-rearing. Perfect parenting doesn't exist, but it's a rewarding journey of discovery and growth. Tune in this week to join the conversation and gain new perspectives on supporting your child's development. Don't miss out—your insights and experiences are valuable contributions to the ongoing dialogue. Successful Parenting information: SUCCESSFUL PARENTING (successfulparentingplan.com) Follow us Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, TikTok, and Twitter Successful Parenting Workbook, available on Amazon Email: SuccessfulParentingPlan@gmail.com
Jacqueline and Robin dive into some unchartered waters, and WOW, they learn a lot. Join in for this week's topic, focusing on safety, particularly GUN Safety. What this conversation is and what it is not! First, this is not about whether or not to own a gun, or if guns should or should not be legal. This conversation entails learning and teaching our children about safety and ensuring our children do not have access to guns, as well as understanding safety, especially if our children should come in contact with a firearm. We cannot be with our children every second, and there are ways to protect our children, through knowledge and due diligence. One parent noted, "I had no idea my neighbors had a gun, and my child plays at their house regularly". Guest Experts Katherine Rosch and Layla Danley are part of the Be SMART national campaign. The Be SMART message talks about what all of us, gun owners and non-gun owners alike, can do to make sure children and teens do not have unsupervised access to guns. We know that an estimated 4.6 million American children live in homes with at least one gun that is loaded and unlocked. Katherine and Layla highlight the importance of being inquisitive, particularly when asking questions of the adults who will be supervising our children. Questions such as "Is there a gun in your home? If so, is it stored safely?" This conversation takes a few twists and turns and will leave listeners yearning for more information. Tune in. It is a difficult conversation to have but an imperative one. BE SMART Katherine Rosch “RUSH”: kathrosch.il@gmail.com Layla Danley Layladanley.il@gmail.com Website: Be SMART | Secure Gun Storage (besmartforkids.org) Be SMART Framework, Five Simple Action Steps Can Help Protect Kids: https://besmartforkids.org/about-us/our-framework-smart/ Become a Volunteer: https://besmartforkids.org/support-us/become-a-volunteer/ Resources: https://besmartforkids.org/secure-gun-storage/resources/Talking to Your Children About Guns, Asking About Secure Gun Storage, Facts and Resources on Child Firearm Suicide etc. Successful Parenting information: SUCCESSFUL PARENTING (successfulparentingplan.com) Follow us Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, TikTok, and Twitter Successful Parenting Workbook, available on Amazon Email: SuccessfulParentingPlan@gmail.com
This week's episode will intrigue listeners as Jacqueline and Robin sit down with Dr. Etel Leit, a pediatric communication advocate. Dr. Leit has helped thousands of clients all over the nation, including many high-profile families in the Beverly Hills area. She has authored four books, and was featured on various media outlets, including NBC, CNN, WeTV, and the Style Network. Baby sign language? Isn't that just teaching babies to sign? Well, yes and no, but there is so much more. While it is similar to sign language, based on American Sign Language, there are some modifications. Babies and children learn at a quicker pace than adults and even teens, which gives babies the advantage when learning to sign. Jacqueline and Robin were interested to learn that baby sign language can help with literacy skills and improve confidence. Additionally, parents and babies report feeling less frustrated due to improving the lines of communication, leaving babies feeling less misunderstood. Baby sign language helps babies express emotions and desires before they can speak and creates closer connections within the family. Dr. Leit shares with listeners that learning baby sign language is a fun way to communicate with infants and toddlers, using nonverbal or manual signs. Listen in, and remember baby sign language is not just for babies. Etel Leit, PhD www.DrEtelLeit.com www.SignShine.com etel@signshine.com 310.277.SIGN Instagram @SignShine Successful Parenting information: SUCCESSFUL PARENTING (successfulparentingplan.com) Follow us Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, TikTok, and Twitter Successful Parenting Workbook, available on Amazon Email: SuccessfulParentingPlan@gmail.com
While some children are better test takers than others, a little bit of guidance and prep can go a long way. 2024 brought about many changes in the standardized testing world, with new programs, guidelines, formats, and much more. This week, Jacqueline & Robin dive into the world of standardized testing, particularly standardized assessments, such as the SAT, ACT, and other College Board Exams. Guest Expert, Dr. Shaan Patel, the founder of Prep Expert SAT & ACT Preparation, winner of a Shark Tank deal with Mark Cuban, a bestselling author and a board-certified dermatologist physician, joins in for a fun, informative, and engaging conversation. Dr. Patel’s ideas and concepts have been so widely and well received that his company has exploded. To date, he has helped hundreds of thousands around the country increase their test scores, improve their confidence, decrease their test anxiety, and positively impact their testing experience. Dr. Patel shares ideas with listeners, such as when to start prep, test-taking tips, college scholarship pointers, as well as key resources for listeners to support their children in the test-taking journey. Join in; you will not want to miss this one! Shaan Patel, MD, MBA Prep Expert | SAT & ACT Prep Courses | As Seen On Shark Tank Shaan grew up in Las Vegas in his parents' budget motel, attended inner-city public schools in the worst school district in the nation with a 40% dropout rate, and was clueless about standardized tests. After spending hundreds of hours studying for the SAT, he was able to raise his score from average to perfect — a feat achieved by only 0.02% of all high school students. His life completely changed because of his perfect SAT score! He was admitted into prestigious universities, received $250k dollars in scholarships, and even got to meet the President. He created Prep Expert to help high school students achieve their own dreams. Prep Expert is now a leading national test preparation provider. The company offers 6-week SAT & ACT preparation classes in multiple cities around the country and online. Thousands of Prep Expert students have improved their SAT and ACT scores, gotten into the Ivy League, won millions in scholarships, and some have even gotten perfect SAT/ACT scores themselves. Shaan completed his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Biology (BA) at the University of Southern California, Master of Business Administration (MBA) at Yale University, and Medical Degree (MD) at the University of Southern California. He is also a board-certified dermatologist physician. In addition to his academic endeavors, he continues to act as the Founder & President of Prep Expert. He appeared on ABC's Shark Tank and closed a deal with Mark Cuban for an investment in the company. Successful Parenting information: SUCCESSFUL PARENTING (successfulparentingplan.com) Follow us Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, TikTok, and Twitter Successful Parenting Workbook, available on Amazon Email: SuccessfulParentingPlan@gmail.com
Fear of failure or perfectionism, that is the question. We hear from families, either parents or children themselves, that a quest to avoid failure leads to increased stress, unrealistic expectations, and feelings of despair. This week’s topic explores this theme intentionally, looking at how our ‘fear of failure’ mindset impacts our parenting, sometimes even projecting this mindset onto our children. Jacqueline and Robin recognize that some individuals are naturally prone to the idea of ‘perfectionism’, but also note that this idea may stem from a ‘fear of failure’ mindset. Join Jacqueline and Robin as they shed some insight into this topic, including the pressure both parents and children may put on themselves, leading to less desirable outcomes and lower feelings of self-worth. It is never perfect, but always progressing! Successful Parenting information: SUCCESSFUL PARENTING (successfulparentingplan.com) Follow us Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, TikTok, and Twitter Successful Parenting Workbook, available on Amazon Email: SuccessfulParentingPlan@gmail.com
Spring Break, or really any break from work or school, can bring a much-needed rest and fun. It can be a reset for children and parents alike. However, many listeners have said that while they hoped their children would feel more recharged and engaged following a break, this is Ien not the case. For children dealing with emotional or behavioral challenges, breaks can cause disruptions to routine, often leading to regression and difficulties returning to school. Luckily, there are some remedies for this. During this week’s episode, Jacqueline & Robin share tips for a fun and active break, including strategies to foster resilience and emotional health, leading to a smoother post-break transition. Maintaining a simpler routine, enjoying fun family activities, and ways to keep our children off devices will all be covered. Stop by for fun, and leave with some ideas to keep your children healthier and connected before, during, and after any breaks you may face. Successful Parenting information: SUCCESSFUL PARENTING (successfulparentingplan.com) Follow us Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, TikTok, and Twitter Successful Parenting Workbook, available on Amazon Email: SuccessfulParentingPlan@gmail.com
Parenting is, at times, challenging, especially when the parents are already dealing with conflict, extreme stress, hurt feelings, or even turbulence in their relationship. Some parenting relationships exist amongst separation, sometimes within the same house, divorce, or other unique dynamics. Guest Expert, Pamala Rak, has a wealth of knowledge and expertise in supporting families during these times, developing effective co-parenting strategies that bring healing to the family, as well as help develop connections and resiliency within the family unit. Pam shares key strategies to promote healthy communication amongst parents, as well as obstacles and challenges that can disrupt family relationships and ultimately leave children feeling insecure, fearful, and lost. Listen along and learn tools to establish and maintain healthy boundaries, co-parenting skills, and ways to raise a child in a nurturing family, even between two houses. Pam Rak, LCSW PC Divorce, Mental Behavioral Health- Hoffman Estates | Call Now! (pamelaraklcsw.com) Email: pamelaraklcsw@gmail.com Pamela possesses an incomparable set of skills whetted over nearly 35 years of experience in clinical social work, corporate consulting, court-related services, case managment, and teaching appointments at the college level. Recognized for her combined genuine warmth and pragmatic approach in adult counseling/psychotherapy and complex relationship and divorce situations, Pamela has the respect of and is a valuable resource to the legal community and medical professionals across many disciplines, corporations, and not-for-profit organizations. A frequently sought after speaker, Pamela's presentations and workshops are dynamic and informative. Successful Parenting information: SUCCESSFUL PARENTING (successfulparentingplan.com) Follow us Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, TikTok, and Twitter Successful Parenting Workbook, available on Amazon Email: SuccessfulParentingPlan@gmail.com
Hello Parents, have you ever dealt with your own mental health concerns? Have you ever worried about your child and struggled to know how to support them? Jacqueline & Robin have, which prompted them to reach out to expert, author, and keynote speaker Mike Bushman. In this week’s episode, Mike will share his journey, moving from a teenager with severe depression and suicidal thoughts to a successful professional and advocate for youth mental health. Mike will share how he supported his children, ways parents can recognize signs and symptoms in their children, and strategies to respond to children. Being a parent is never easy, especially when you are concerned that your child is struggling. Realistically, as parents we will struggle at different points with our own mental health. Mike shares some key takeaways for parents to manage their emotional health while supporting their children. Tune in, you will not want to miss this episode. Mike Bushman AFSP Illinois Education Co-Chair & Treasurer Youth, Adult & Teen Mental Health First Aid Instructor Author, 5 Books (on Amazon) Twitter: @m_bushman Facebook: AuthorMikeBushman Contact: michaelbushman64@gmail.com Successful Parenting information: SUCCESSFUL PARENTING (successfulparentingplan.com) Follow us Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, TikTok, and Twitter Successful Parenting Workbook, available on Amazon Email: SuccessfulParentingPlan@gmail.com
What are some of the secrets to joyful parenting, or finding joy and gratitude during even the most challenging times of parenting? So often we may find ourselves feeling overwhelmed and exhausted, looking for glimpses of hope amidst the chaos. This week’s guest expert, Shira Greenfield, teaches listeners about the Perma Model of Wellbeing and how the pillars described can contribute to our overall well-being, which in turn impacts how we show up to be our best parenting selves. Jacqueline and Robin can relate to being in the ‘rat racer’ mentality, which as they note does not ever increase happiness. Shira explains how the Perma Model of Wellbeing can help us be more present for our children, enhance our positive emotions and connect more in a real and intentional way to our families. It does take practice, but for many parents, is a key step in fostering connections and emotional health for their families. Shira is not only an expert in her field, but also a realist who adds fun to her teaching and is followed by many. We know you will enjoy this episode, and be grateful that you tuned in. Shira Greenfield is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who earned her master’s degree in Counselor Education from the University of Iowa in 1985. Since then, she has worked as a therapist, a crisis intervention worker, a group facilitator and an educator. She has also held several leadership positions in behavioral health care providing oversight to both inpatient and outpatient programs and teams. She currently serves as the Clinical Director for Pivotal Counseling Center with offices in Lake in the Hills and Woodstock. Shira is an experienced and sought-after speaker who is known for her down to earth style and her ability to get people to laugh at themselves. Pivotal Counseling Center - Lake in the Hills & Woodstock 815.345.3400 Successful Parenting information: SUCCESSFUL PARENTING (successfulparentingplan.com) Follow us Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, TikTok, and Twitter Successful Parenting Workbook, available on Amazon Email: SuccessfulParentingPlan@gmail.com
This is no easy topic. Listeners have contacted us requesting tips on ways to support their children in dealing with these difficult conversations. Have you dealt with the loss of a loved one, maybe from a terminal illness, even one impacting a child directly or indirectly? This week’s episode focuses on ways to speak to our children about Grief and Loss, including terminal illness and traumatic injuries, and all the things in between. As a parent or caregiver, you may find yourself wishing to avoid these conversations, hoping to shield your child(ren) from sadness. However, speaking to our children about difficult topics can provide comfort and aid in the healing process. While these conversations can be painful, especially if death or dying directly impacts the child or family, open dialogue can help children manage and navigate their feelings and understanding. Guest expert Tara Tooley leads a thought-provoking conversation focusing on ways to speak to our children about this topic, as well as ways to normalize death and illness. Tara points out that one important strategy involves age-appropriate conversations using active listening and creating a safe place for children to talk openly about their feelings. Listeners will be provided strategies, resources, and ideas to support their children. Tune in for a conversation to foster healing and connection. Tara Tooley, LCSW brings over two decades of expertise to the mental health sector, holding licensure as a clinical social worker and training from INELDA as an end-of-life doula. A survivor of cancer twice, Tara faced aggressive triple-negative breast cancer at 25 and again at 30, battling the disease alongside her infant daughter during the latter. Her journey has deeply rooted her in the cancer community for more than 24 years. Operating Blackbird Therapy in Overland Park, KS, Tara holds clinical social work licensure in both Kansas and Missouri. In addition to her practice, she serves as a Cancer Coach through her venture, Cancer Recovery. Tara's professional background is diverse, including roles in oncology and hospice social work, outreach case management for children and families, and positions within emergency youth shelters. Blackbird Therapy - Blackbird Therapy (blackbirdtherapykc.com)www.cancerrecovery.com Book Recommendations from a Mental Health Therapist & End Of Life Doula - For Children (Grief) The Invisible String by Patrice Karst When Dinosaurs Die by Laurie Krasny Brown and Marc Brown The Heart and The Bottle by Oliver Jeffers The Memory Box by Joanna Rowland Book Recommendations For Children Who Have a Family Member With a Cancer Diagnosis Nowhere Hair: Explain cancer and hair loss to kids by Sue Glader and Edith Buenen Cancer Hates Kisses by Jessica Reid Sliwerski Butterfly Kisses and Wishes on Wings,” by Ellen McVicker For Teens: My Parent Has Cancer and it Really Sucks by Maya Silver and Marc Silver For Terminal Cancer a book for younger kids: The Cancer That Wouldn’t Go Away: A Story for kids about metastatic cancer by Hadessa Field Successful Parenting information: SUCCESSFUL PARENTING (successfulparentingplan.com) Follow us Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, TikTok, and Twitter Successful Parenting Workbook, available on Amazon Email: SuccessfulParentingPlan@gmail.com
According to SAMHSA, Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality, National Surveys on Drug Use and Health (NSDUHs) 2009 to 2014 data, about 1 in 8 children (8.7 million) aged 17 or younger lived in households with at least one parent who had a past year substance use disorder (SUD). Wow, while these statistics seem high, recent research studies point to a lot higher statistical numbers. We do know the earlier children begin experimenting with alcohol and substances, the more likely they are to develop addictive behaviors with substances later in life. Furthermore, while some children can develop addictive behaviors impacted by genetics, others are influenced by learned behaviors. We have found that how we speak to children about addiction can be critical to a child’s relationship, in particular, attitude towards substances. Guest Expert Emily Weber, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and counseling practice owner, brings a wealth of information to listeners, providing suggestions and resources regarding talking to children about all things related to addiction. Tune in to listen as Robin and Jacqueline have a fun and engaging conversation with Emily. You never know how conversations with our children can impact our children down the road. Plant the Seed Now. Emily Weber, LCSW, CADC Clinical Director Contact: EWeber@EllieMentalHealth.com As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Emily believes in providing ethical, compassionate care that that meets people where they are at, demonstrates empathy for the unique experience of each person, and recognizes the needs of the whole person. Rooted in these values, she uses a variety of therapeutic approaches to find the best fit, including motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness. The Ellie value of authenticity resonates with who she is, both as a person, and as a therapist, as she brings her authentic self to her therapy practice. She loves embracing her creative side, using expressive arts and play therapies with children and adolescents and recognizing the value of humor in navigating the difficult parts of life. Through providing a nonjudgmental space to explore emotions, unpack thought processes, and recognize patterns of behavior, her role is to help individuals, couples, and families tackle whatever they struggles they are currently facing, be it anxiety, mood disorders, addiction, communication issues, identity struggles or other life stressors. She is motivated by supporting individuals through the change process, helping people reach their goals, and empowering them to realize their full potential. She believes that everyone deserves the opportunity for healing, growth, and support and that Ellie can make that opportunity a reality for more of our community. With these values of creativity, compassion, humor, authenticity, acceptance, and determination at the forefront of who she is as a clinician and a person, she couldn’t be more excited to align with the mission at Ellie Mental Health and provide accessible, wholistic mental health care to Downers Grove and the surrounding areas. Successful Parenting information: SUCCESSFUL PARENTING (successfulparentingplan.com) Follow us Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, TikTok, and Twitter Successful Parenting Workbook, available on Amazon Email: SuccessfulParentingPlan@gmail.com
Jacqueline Rhew, LCPC, Dr. Robin Choquette, and Lauren Bilbrey, MA, LB1, share why class and school engagement matter. School engagement promotes mental health, resiliency, academic achievement, physical health, and social skill development for starters. Listeners will learn strategies to support school engagement, as well as obstacles many families face, including school and student interventions. Whether you are a parent or an educator, or both, we believe this episode will lead to helpful insights into supporting students with school engagement. To learn more about our services contact www.CenterforEmotionalWellnessNorthwest, www.SuccessfulParentingPlan.com, www.LBLearningLab.com. Successful Parenting information: SUCCESSFUL PARENTING (successfulparentingplan.com) Follow us Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, TikTok, and Twitter Successful Parenting Workbook, available on Amazon Email: SuccessfulParentingPlan@gmail.com