I am a clinical psychologist who specializes in integrative care, or whole-health care. Self-care is a big part of my personal and professional value system. Most people think of self-care as: -Massages and spa trips -Bubble baths -Get your hair, nails, and feet done (i.e., get a mani/pedi) -Relaxing on the beach on faraway island […]
April is World Autism Month, a time to celebrate neurodiversity, honor the lived experiences of autistic individuals, and foster understanding and acceptance. To support this, I am sharing some common, harmful myths about autism and the corresponding truths. Myth 1: Autistic people don’t have emotions.Reality: Autistic people feel a full range of emotions—often deeply and intensely. Emotional expression […]
Spring cleaning isn’t just about tidying up — it’s an opportunity to refresh your environment and create a space that supports your well-being. In a recent article from ADDitude Magazine, Your Clutter Does Not Define You, Tracy McCubbin dives into the common challenges of decluttering — from emotional attachments to the time and effort required. For those with […]
Building lasting habits and improving executive function is all about creating systems that work with your strengths. In a recent article from ADDitude Magazine, How to Forge Stick-with-It Habits, Peg Dawson, EdD, shares valuable strategies to use executive functioning skills and build good habits. Here are a few quick tips, inspired by her article, to help you get started: […]
Neurodiversity encompasses unique ways of thinking and experiencing the world. As a clinical psychologist and a neurodivergent individual myself, I understand the power and challenges that come with ADHD and Autism from both a professional and personal perspective. Embracing neurodiversity can lead to growth, self-awareness, and help others appreciate the unique abilities of neurodivergent minds. […]
Recent research highlights the profound health benefits of incorporating small, consistent amounts of physical activity into daily life. Two studies featured in the Global Wellness Institute’s Research Spotlight on Exercise demonstrate that even brief bouts of movement can significantly improve both cardiovascular and mental health. A large-scale study conducted by the University of Sydney, which tracked over […]
A recent study published in Neuropsychopharmacology explores how stimulant medications affect brain development in children with ADHD, highlighting how these treatments may help normalize brain regions linked to ADHD symptoms. This study is explored in depth in Stimulant Medication Normalizes Brain Structures in Children with ADHD: New Study by Carly Broadway, published by ADDitude Magazine, which informed this blog. […]
Autism in individuals assigned female at birth (AFAB)—including women, girls, non-binary, and trans-masculine individuals—is frequently underdiagnosed. Research reveals that as many as 80% of autistic AFAB individuals remain undiagnosed by age 18. Their symptoms often manifest differently than those seen in individuals assigned male at birth (AMAB), leading to delayed or missed diagnoses. Recognizing the distinct signs […]
I hope you and your loved ones are safe during this challenging time. In light of the ongoing wildfires, I’d like to share some helpful strategies and resources from The Help Group to support your neurodivergent child through this crisis: 1. Plan Ahead & Stay Organized: Collaborate with your child to create a clear, simple emergency plan. […]
Living with chronic illness means that managing symptoms is a daily part of my life. As someone who navigates living with lupus and fibromyalgia, I’ve developed strategies that help me balance my roles as a mother, wife, and clinician, while attempting to live gracefully with chronic illness. Here are some practical approaches rooted in both […]
As we head into the new year, it’s a great time to reflect on who we want to become and the values we want to embody. Instead of just focusing on tasks, let’s align our intentions with our true desires for growth. This guide will help you clarify your vision and set affirmations that inspire […]