Adolescence and cannabis: A brain-blowing combination
It’s a minefield. I can’t even begin to wrap my head around the distractions, temptations, pressures, and dangers our youth face. Curiously, one of them often gets a pass, but maybe that’ll change once the brain-blowing news circulates. Substance use, including cannabis, may lead to loss of gray matter in areas such as the medial […]
Recognizing and Addressing Overlapping Symptoms
Is PTSD common in autism? When you think of autism and PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), they might seem like two completely different conditions. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by challenges in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors. PTSD, on the other hand, is a mental health condition triggered by traumatic experiences. […]
Back-to-School Tips for Children with Autism: Enhancing Classroom Organization with ABA
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the research based and primary treatment to remediate symptoms of autism spectrum disorder. While ABA can be used in a therapy format to teach skills and reduce barriers for those diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, its key principles and protocols can be applied to a variety of settings, such as […]
Managing Mental Health and Relationships in an Election Year
As therapists, we often find ourselves guiding our patients through a whirlpool of uncertainty about their fears. We ask them to sit with the possibility that their worst fears could come true. We do this with the hope that by facing their fears, we can help them to become more comfortable with uncertainty, manage their […]
Empowering Through Challenges – Building Bridges for Autistic Students
Navigating the world can be a daunting task for autistic students. From the sensory overload of a bustling classroom to the social intricacies that come with making friends, the challenges are numerous and complex. However, with heartfelt strategies and a commitment to understanding the challenges they face, we can build bridges that empower these incredible […]
There’s Got to Be a Better Way! – Coalition for National Trauma Research
Register Today for Year 2 of the Future of Trauma Research and Clinical Guidance Conference Series – February 19-20, 2025 Lacey LaGrone, MD, MPH, FACS, is on a mission to democratize trauma clinical guidance in the United States and, eventually, across the world. Trauma clinical guidance resides in a chaotic landscape of have’s and have-not’s, […]
Goodreads Book Giveaway: "Sometimes When I’m Jealous"
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Why regular exercise may impact men and women differently
Exercise is vital to a healthy lifestyle, offering numerous benefits such as improved heart health, elevated mood and better weight management. However, research increasingly suggests that exercise affects men and women differently. For women, exercise programming might benefit from a more varied approach that balances strength training with endurance and flexibility exercise. Understanding these differences […]
A Universal Language to Connect with Our Children
How Do Children with Autism Process Music? Children with autism often have a unique connection to music. While they may face significant challenges in other areas, many show a natural affinity for music, and some even have exceptional musical abilities. Research on autism and music therapy suggests that the brain of a person with autism […]
Beyond the Schedule – 7 Emotional Impacts of Flexible Routines on Autistic Children
In the world of autism, where a consistent schedule often serves as a comfort blanket, the idea of flexible routines might seem like a paradox. Schedules are like a lighthouse in a stormy sea for autistic children, guiding them safely through their daily lives with a reassuring predictability. Yet, the winds of change are blowing […]