Oppositional Behavior Archives

“Why Don’t You Listen?” How to Stop Nagging and Start Communicating

January 1, 2021December 11, 2020

I recently wrote this article for ADDitude Magazine online. I hope you find it helpful. Your child may be ignoring your requests for very good reasons. Instead of insisting on compliance and obedience, find out the source of their resistance by engaging in teachable moments. “My son just doesn’t listen to me.” “My daughter snaps back when I ask her to do something.” “Why doesn’t he show me a little respect?” I hear comments like these all the time from … Read more

Maybe it IS ADHD – Does it Really Matter?

July 21, 2020July 20, 2020

I am often asked if I think ADHD is over-diagnosed. My answer – yes. I also believe it is underdiagnosed. The problem is that there is still not one agreed-upon cohesive and comprehensive protocol for diagnosing ADHD; a real, life-impacting disorder that affects a significant percentage of people. And yet there are still many practitioners who do not include an ADHD screening in their assessments. I believe, and evidence supports, there are enormous lifelong risks to mental health, physical health, employment, … Read more

Parenting An ADHD Child In The Age of Covid

August 2, 2020June 17, 2020

I know that for most of you the school year is finally ending. I hope you are all healthy and safe and have an opportunity to relax a little bit. I have been working with many families on navigating the summer plans given the restrictions and challenges. Please reach out if you would like some support. The people of CHOOSEesteem (a free emotional, mental, and behavioral health and wellness app that helps families navigate through emotional and behavioral challenges) recently … Read more

Professional ADHD & Executive Function Parent Coach Training

September 25, 2020May 12, 2020

For more than a decade, I have been supporting parents through the most perplexing and stressful challenges they have ever faced – helping the children, whom they love so dearly, learn to become their best selves. Along the way, I have seen parents go through tremendous personal growth, and I have seen marriages go from contentious to supportive. They share with me their stories of success, large and small. Reports of less arguing and ignoring rules, deeper, more meaningful communication, … Read more

Introduction to Dyslexia

September 22, 2020May 2, 2020

Given the prevalence of dyslexia co-occurring with ADHD, I thought parents would like to know more about dyslexia. While some researchers say 30-40% of individuals with dyslexia may have ADHD, other researchers say it is likely much higher. Furthermore, many students with learning differences are struggling during online schooling related to COVID-19. Both student and parent are experiencing increased frustration as these students may struggle with independent learning. I have therefore asked a licensed psychologist, Dr. Cynthia Johnson, if she … Read more

Don’t Look at Me in That Tone of Voice: Triggers and Opportunities

April 28, 2020April 28, 2020

Have you ever walked into the room, and your child’s whole demeanor changed? You watch her face go from relaxed to stressed. Or his body tenses up in anger or frustration. You have not uttered a word, yet your child has heard an entire lecture and is already reacting. Ok, perhaps there was something you planned on reminding your child of, or maybe you weren’t happy that he left his clothes in the bathroom, again. But at this moment you … Read more