“I hate you.” “Stop talking to me.” “Just leave me alone.” Few things hurt more than feeling rejected by your own teen. While pushing away is a normal part of adolescence, extreme withdrawal, anger, or emotional shutdown can also be signs that something deeper is going on. About 1 in...
When 15-year-old Mia first arrived at Ventura County-based Casa Pacifica, she was withdrawing from the world around her—and hurting herself in ways that deeply alarmed her family. She stopped hanging out with friends, spent hours obsessively on her phone, and became increasingly isolated, trapped in...
The digital world offers teens unprecedented access to information — and with that access comes serious risk. A recent article highlights this danger in the most tragic terms: a 19-year-old California college student repeatedly turned to ChatGPT for drug advice and later died of an...
Access to quality mental health care for youth has never been more critical, yet too many young people still face barriers to the support they need. According to recent studies, more than half of U.S. adolescents who require mental health services encounter obstacles such as...
The holiday break is often portrayed as a magical time of family, tradition and rest. But for many teens — especially those experiencing anxiety, depression or emotional dysregulation — the school break can feel overwhelming. School provides structure, routine, and predictability. When that structure disappears, stress...
In an era where technology permeates every facet of life, the rise of AI-powered chatbots has introduced new dynamics in how young people engage with their emotions and seek support. While these digital companions offer convenience and accessibility, experts caution about their potential impact on...
Determining whether residential treatment is the right choice for your struggling teen can feel overwhelming. Parents often wonder about the severity of their child’s challenges and whether they should wait for improvement or seek immediate help. You’re not alone—1 in 5 teens experiences a mental health...
Talking About Suicide: A Parent’s Guide to Supporting Children and Teens Suicide is the second-leading cause of death among adolescents. With academic pressure, social media, and access to substances, many parents worry about their child’s mental health. In honor of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, Dr. Kimberly Bennett,...
Helping Teens Thrive in High School The move from middle school to high school can feel like a major leap – both for students and their families. New schedules, bigger campuses, academic pressure and rising expectations can stir up a mix of excitement and anxiety. For some...
Explore the third DBT mindfulness how skill and uncover practical ways to bring mindful awareness into your daily actions with clarity and purpose. Last month, we explored One-Mindfully, the second of DBT’s core “How” skills for mindfulness. This month, we’re focusing on the third: Effectively. If you...