All Children are Gifts to their Families

When control over one's body becomes the battleground, can the simple act of movement be the key to freedom and joy? Kelly, a dance movement therapist, joins me to unravel this question, sharing the profound healing that movement can offer those entangled in the struggles of eating disorders. Our conversation ventures into the heart of authentic movement—our body's inherent language—and how this form of self-expression can lead teenagers, often caught in a web of societal expectations, to a healthier relationship with themselves.

Embarking on this journey, we grapple with the complexities of embodiment, a concept far deeper than physicality alone. It's about the harmonious interplay of mind, soul, and emotions—a holistic embrace of self that eating disorders so viciously attempt to fracture. Kelly and I contemplate the crucial role embodiment plays in dismantling the objectification and control these disorders impose. We also touch on the unique challenges teenagers face in this digital age, underlining the imperative of establishing bodily safety as a cornerstone in the path to healing.

To conclude, our dialogue turns to the therapeutic implications of "emotion as motion." I share insights from the 'Be With Body' experience, an online group coaching program that nurtures a safe relationship with movement as we tackle emotional regulation. The value of dance and movement therapies unfolds through our discussion, showcasing their efficacy in addressing a spectrum of mental health issues. By integrating practices such as intuitive movement classes and mindful social media engagement into our daily lives, we open the door to a world where mental health and movement are inextricably linked. Join us as we advocate for greater body awareness and invite you to partake in this transformative practice.

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Join forces with me, Rajuta, and our insightful guest Jacqueline, a seasoned occupational therapy expert, as we navigate the complex interplay between occupational therapy and eating disorders. The conversation promises to equip listeners with a deeper understanding of how this therapeutic field helps individuals with ARFID and anorexia reclaim independence in their daily lives. Discover the transformative strategies occupational therapists employ, from sensory and oral motor work to fostering emotional resilience, all aimed at empowering those struggling with these intricate health challenges.

The episode unveils the often misunderstood Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) and its sensory food avoidance subtype, shedding light on its overlap with anorexia. Jacqueline's expertise shines as we discuss the nuanced role of exposure therapy in establishing healthier eating habits and setting individualized treatment goals. We confront the sensory issues that contribute to restrictive eating patterns, emphasizing repetition's crucial role in forming new, healthier eating behaviors. Embrace the knowledge shared as we dissect the sensory complexities and the tailored care required to support individuals on their road to recovery.

We wrap up with an earnest look at the psychosocial elements that are sometimes overshadowed in eating disorder treatment. The episode illuminates the need for a holistic, empathetic approach that addresses emotional health, spirituality, and social functioning. Moreover, the discussion traverses the significance of involving families in the therapeutic journey, highlighting how empathy, education, and collaborative efforts can fortify the support system essential for overcoming the challenges of eating disorders. Prepare to be part of a heartening dialogue that casts fresh perspectives on treating these disorders with understanding and specialized attention.

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Ever wondered how deeply eating disorders can impact teenagers and how social media plays a role in it? Do you find it challenging to navigate conversations about these complex issues with your children? Join us in our latest episode of Answer my Call. I have the pleasure of hosting Katie Cornwall, a renowned expert in the field of eating disorders. Together, we explore the intricate world of these disorders, shedding light on various subtypes and their grave seriousness.

Our discussion takes a special focus on teenagers. We explore how social pressures, body image concerns, and the added complexities of adolescence can trigger these disorders. We also delve into the issues parents face, offering valuable insights, and practical advice on supporting their teens. Moreover, we discuss the powerful impact of social media on the development and exacerbation of eating disorders, underscoring the importance of media literacy and mindful consumption.

Lastly, we turn our attention to younger children and the unique challenges they present. We navigate ways parents can lean into their fears and support their child's recovery journey. We also delve into the intricate relationship between eating disorders, trauma, and control, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach to health. Our enlightening conversation rounds off with a focus on Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) and its overlap with other eating conditions. So, gear up for a comprehensive exploration of eating disorders that promises to educate, inform, and support those navigating this challenging terrain.

Bio:
Katie  Cornwall is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Certified ARFID Specialist with over a decade of experience in the mental health and nutrition fields. She has dual degrees in psychology and art from Albright College as well as a nutrition and dietetics degree from West Chester University. Katie works passionately in the realm of eating disorders and the anti-diet movement. Her main objectives in nutrition sessions include healing a clients’ relationship with food, working towards intuitive eating and movement, and providing a safe space to heal from nutrition myths and diet culture.  

 Katie is comfortable working with individuals, families, or partners in nutrition sessions. She has experience working with more general nutrition concerns as well as medical issues such as diabetes and PCOS. Her previous work experiences have brought her a great understanding of the importance of self-care, exercise, mindful eating, and working together with a team of health professionals to reach your health goals.

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Ever grappled with the heavy weight of grief, especially during the festive season? We did too, and that's why we decided to have an open, thought-provoking conversation about loss and the complex emotions it stirs up in teens. We cover everything from recognizing behavioral changes that might signal grief, to the struggle teens have in articulating their feelings, and how to help them understand that it's perfectly normal to feel joy and sadness simultaneously. By the end of our discussion, we hope you'll have the tools to navigate the holiday season while dealing with grief.

We also take a deep breath and confront the harsh reality of supporting teens through traumatic loss, specifically suicide. We shed light on the necessity of having broader conversations, being vigilant, and understanding survivor's guilt. We share valuable advice on how to foster self-awareness and self-reflection in teens in the wake of such devastating loss. And trust us, it's not about dismissing their feelings, but about offering them the support they need, and providing a safe space for open dialogue.

In the final segment of our heart-rending conversation, we find comfort in traditions and spirituality. We share our personal traditions that have kept our loved ones' memories alive during the holidays, and explore how spirituality can provide solace during these trying times. Our special guest, a grief counselor, Angela Dobrzynski, LPC, joins in and provides her insights and advice on navigating through grief. She also introduces her book, which aims to normalize grief and provide support to those who are on this journey. This episode is all about understanding grief, navigating through it, and finding ways to honor our loved ones who are no longer with us. Whether you are a parent, a teen, or anyone dealing with grief, we hope this conversation will be a beacon of light in your darkest moments.

Bio:
Angela Dobrzynski, LPC specializes in grief and non-death losses, and also works with clients through significant life transitions and other concerns. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania, and is an approved teletherapy provider in the state of Florida. Additionally, she is a Certified Grief Counseling Specialist and holds a certificate in Holistic Health Coaching from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition. Her's Master’s degree is in Counseling Psychology from Rosemont College and Bachelor’s degree is in Psychology from Stockton University.

For more information on Angela's book, "Unmoored" - https://angeladora.org/book/

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In part 2 of our conversation, Kim Zahlaway provides practical advice for parents to work with their teenagers who are experiencing anxiety. This was a masterclass on parenting.

What if I told you, you're not alone in your struggle with understanding your anxiety and effectively parenting your teens? Just for you, we've got an enriching episode shedding light on these very topics, featuring our guest, Kim Zahlaway. Together, we navigate the complex world of anxiety, differentiating it from stress, and discussing its physical manifestations. Kim offers intriguing insights into seeing anxiety as a signal for something that needs attention and the ways to differentiate it from everyday nervousness.

Transitioning to the challenging terrain of parenting teenagers, we explore the pressures it brings and the need for creating some breathing space. Kim shares tried-and-tested strategies including 'Know for Now' and 'Circling Back', along with the acronym 'WAIT', that can serve as a compass during this stage. We confront our common fear of failure and explore how to cultivate a deep sense of connection and mutual respect with our teens.

In the final part of our discussion, we focus on setting boundaries, understanding teen anxiety, and the importance of technology spot-checks. With Kim's expertise, we delve into the need for resetting conversations and providing language around privacy versus public behavior. Wrapping up with an exploration of embracing mistakes and managing expectations, Kim helps us see the necessity of an accepting and understanding environment, where mistakes are not a source of guilt or shame, but a tool for growth. Tune in for an episode packed with practical advice and strategies that will help you navigate the tides of anxiety and the high seas of parenting.

Bio:
Kim Zahlaway is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and founder of U Got This Counseling Services, LLC in Berwyn, PA, providing children, adolescents, and adults counseling services for over 25 years. In addition, Kim offers Parent Coaching sessions to parents of kids of any age and Life Coaching to young adults through her Young Adult Transformations Coaching Services. ADHD and Anxiety, and their impact on school, family, work, relationships, daily life, mental health and life’s transitions, have become Kim’s areas of expertise. 

Utilizing a strength-based, individualized approach to support the social, emotional, and cognitive well-being of her clients, Kim has developed a three-phase treatment model called S.D.E.P.S. through which she engages clients of any age in a process of Self-Discovery, Empowerment and Problem Solving.  Kim’s training and treatment orientation includes CBT, Mindfulness-based cognitive and behavior therapy, Family Systems, Integrative, Humanistic, Attachment Theory, Relational and Solution Focused Therapy.

Kim also provides consultations and presentations to parent groups, community organizations, educational settings, and professional organizations on topics relevant to raising teens in today’s world including anxiety, parenting and the use and impact of technology and social media.

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What if we told you that ADHD is far more complex than just behavioral disruptions? In this part-1 of my discussion with Kim Zahlaway, I ask her specifically about ADHD and how that can be a misunderstood disorder, how can we distinguish between anxiety and ADHD and the spectrum of ADHD.

Let's broaden our understanding together, as we sit down with mental health therapist, Kim Zahlaway, to delve deeper into the intricate world of ADHD. We shed light on how this evolving perspective allows us to recognize ADHD in children without hyperactivity, and discuss the anxiety that is often synonymous with this disorder.

We pivot our conversation towards rejection sensitivity, a concept that is largely overlooked in discussions about ADHD. Kim guides us through how the intensity of emotions, combined with unique brain wiring, can contribute to feelings of social anxiety or rejection. This is not just about understanding the realities of ADHD, but also about addressing the impact it can have on social relationships. Together, we'll discuss the common signs of learning differences and the struggles teenagers with ADHD face in maintaining friendships and dealing with anxiety.

Lastly, let's talk technology. Kim shares with us practical tips for parents on setting boundaries and expectations around their children's device use. Discover how technology can actually help regulate emotions for younger kids and promote self-awareness in teenagers. This episode is packed with expert advice, innovative perspectives and a wealth of resources for parents helping their children navigate life with ADHD. Do not miss out on this enlightening discussion!

Bio:
Kim Zahlaway is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and founder of U Got This Counseling Services, LLC in Berwyn, PA, providing children, adolescents, and adults counseling services for over 25 years. In addition, Kim offers Parent Coaching sessions to parents of kids of any age and Life Coaching to young adults through her Young Adult Transformations Coaching Services. ADHD and Anxiety, and their impact on school, family, work, relationships, daily life, mental health and life’s transitions, have become Kim’s areas of expertise. 

 Utilizing a strength-based, individualized approach to support the social, emotional, and cognitive well-being of her clients, Kim has developed a three-phase treatment model called S.D.E.P.S. through which she engages clients of any age in a process of Self-Discovery, Empowerment and Problem Solving.  Kim’s training and treatment orientation includes CBT, Mindfulness-based cognitive and behavior therapy, Family Systems, Integrative, Humanistic, Attachment Theory, Relational and Solution Focused Therapy.

Kim also provides consultations and presentations to parent groups, community organizations, educational settings, and professional organizations on topics relevant to raising teens in today’s world including anxiety, parenting and the use and impact of technology and social media.

 Resources:

1. Chadd.org
2. Additudemag.com
3. Inattentive ADHD Coalition - www.iadhd.org

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This is my part two conversation with Dr. Amy Young.

Ever felt the relentless pressure of perfectionism? Or perhaps witnessed a teenager grappling with it? Well, you're not alone. Today, we're unmasking the enigma that is perfectionism with our insightful guest, Dr. Amy Young. We dissect how it stealthily permeates different arenas of a teenager's life, morphing into late-night cramming sessions or even procrastination. Dr. Young, with her expertise, helps us decode the telltale signs, and distinguish between a pursuit of excellence versus a dangerous inclination towards perfection.

Dr. Young also helps us navigate the less-charted territories of teen compulsions and body-focused repetitive behaviors. We shed light on the physical and mental compulsions that teenagers may manifest, and the potentially addictive cycle of hair-pulling and skin-picking. You'll get to understand the biological precursors to these conditions and Amy will introduce you to effective strategies to reduce these behaviors.

The conversation then veers towards differentiating these behaviors from self-harm and we illuminate the importance of education in this realm. Hear how open, non-judgmental conversations can empower teens to advocate for themselves. As we approach the end of our dialogue, we emphasize the cruciality of repairing relationships post-mistakes. So, tune in, as we challenge the concept of perfection, and instead, embrace the invaluable lessons that come from embracing our imperfections.

Bio:
Dr. Amy Young is the Founder and Director of the CBT Center for Anxiety & OCD and has been working in the behavioral health field since 1995. She completed her Postdoctoral Fellowship training under nationally recognized OCD expert, Dr. Jonathan Grayson, and anxiety expert, Dr. Linda Welsh. She holds Doctoral and Masters degrees from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, a Clinical Psychology program specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.

 Dr. Young treats all types of anxiety, OCD and Obsessive-Compulsive related conditions in children, teens and adults. Dr. Young utilizes a variety of CBT interventions, including Exposure and Response Prevention, among other evidence-based treatment.

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In this two part episode, Dr. Amy Young and I discuss the spectrum of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and adolescents.

In this first episode, we shatter some stereotypes and myths of OCD. Prepare to deeper understand the nuanced and often misunderstood world of OCD with our expert guest. Together, we're lifting the veil on OCD, going far beyond the simplistic view of just cleaning and checking, bringing to light the realities of both overt and covert compulsions. We'll also tackle the mental weight of OCD, discussing how it can manifest through actions such as constant body scans, seeking reassurance, and incessant rumination. Prepare yourself for a revelation on the "intolerance of uncertainty", and how this can lead to obsessions around delicate topics like one's sexual orientation.

Professionals and casual listeners alike will find our discussion on treatment strategies intriguing. Not all approaches are created equal, and some can even be more harmful than beneficial. We delve into the art of navigating the youthful need for certainty and encouraging age-appropriate risks. The importance of recognizing OCD amidst other anxiety and depression disorders is also brought to the forefront as we discuss the potential dangers of co-compulsing. Lastly, don't miss our in-depth discussion on Exposure and Response Prevention, a unique method of treatment that involves tiny steps and gradual progression towards more challenging tasks. Whether you're a sufferer, a caregiver, or a curious listener, this episode is sure to provide a wealth of insights into the world of OCD.

Keep an eye out for the follow up episode next week!!

Bio:
Dr. Amy Young is the Founder and Director of the CBT Center for Anxiety & OCD and has been working in the behavioral health field since 1995. She completed her Postdoctoral Fellowship training under nationally recognized OCD expert, Dr. Jonathan Grayson, and anxiety expert, Dr. Linda Welsh. She holds Doctoral and Masters degrees from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, a Clinical Psychology program specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.

 Dr. Young treats all types of anxiety, OCD and Obsessive-Compulsive related conditions in children, teens and adults. Dr. Young utilizes a variety of CBT interventions, including Exposure and Response Prevention, among other evidence-based treatment.

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This podcast episode is like a lighthouse in the storm for LGBTQIA+ teens, and those who love and support them. We're welcoming back Amber Lynn Connell, an expert in gender and sexual identity. Her insights will provide you with a much-needed understanding of the unique mental health struggles faced by this demographic. Amber illustrates how factors such as anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation impact these young lives, but how they can be mitigated through the power of support and understanding.

We don't stop there. We also tackle the hot topic of self-advocacy and protective laws for LGBTQIA+ youth, with a particular focus on Pennsylvania. Hear from Amber on the significant impact of a safe expression environment on these teens, as well as the role of gender-affirming care in their lives. Attendees of school board meetings won't want to miss this segment—it's a call-to-action for those committed to ensuring queer and trans students are safe and supported in their schools.

But there's more. Amber takes us through a deep dive into the world of queer and trans teens, navigating relationships, acceptance, and the intimidating world of healthcare. We'll discuss strategies that counselors and therapists can exercise to help these teens extend the safety they experience in therapeutic spaces into their daily lives. Join us on this enlightening journey that brings us closer to understanding and supporting the mental health of our LGBTQIA+ youth. Let's help them not just to survive, but thrive in a compassionate and understanding world.

Resources:
https://welcomeprojectpa.org/saga/therapy/

https://saigecounseling.org/

http://pacounseling.org/aws/PACA/pt/sp/advocacy

http://pacounseling.org/aws/PACA/pt/sp/resources

https://atticyouthcenter.org/

https://pflag.org/

https://pflag.org/findachapter/

https://www.facebook.com/pprainbowroom/

https://payouthcongress.org/

https://www.glsen.org/

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In this two-part series, I talk to Amber Lynne Connell, an expert in adolescent psychology about gender and sexual identity. Here, in part one we unravel the intricacies of gender and sexual identity among teenagers. Who knew that our gender identity begins forming as early as five years old? Or that biological sex extends far beyond the traditional XX and XY to a spectrum of 27 different possible variants? This episode is ripe with revelations about how societal norms begin to influence our identities even before we're born.

Ever wondered about the difference between biological sex and gender identity? Brace yourself as we debunk misconceptions and illuminate the truth in a comprehensive discussion differentiating the two. We'll explore how Gen Z and younger generations are shattering conventions, fostering open dialogues about gender and sexual identity. Let's navigate through terms like non-binary, gender fluid, and agender, and understand how we can bolster support for those on their self-discovery journey.

As we move towards the end, we discuss the monumental importance of affirming our children’s pronouns and names, potentially providing a lifeline for queer and trans teens. We'll share tips on navigating these changes as a parent. Finally, we spotlight resources available for parents, like the PFLAG organization, spotlighting the pivotal role a supportive community can play. Tune in and join our endeavor to create a more inclusive, understanding world for the sake of our future generations.

Bio:
Amber Lynn Connell is a licensed professional counselor with over 15 years experience working in various mental health settings. She is a graduate of Immaculata University with her Bachelor’s in Psychology and West Chester University with her Master’s in Clinical Psychology and Post-Master’s Clinical Licensure Certificate. Amber launched her private practice, ALC Counseling and Therapy in 2022 where she provides individual, group, and family therapy as well as licensure supervision.

In her practice, Amber specializes in working with members of the LGBTQ community, folks with chronic health conditions, and neurodivergent clients of all ages and their families. Amber is also the Clinical Supervisor of the Welcome Project PA Therapy Program where she provides clinical supervision for Master’s level student therapists in training, pre-licensed clinicians, and overall program development, education, and advocacy for LGBT clients and therapists.

Amber is the current secretary of the Pennsylvania Society for Sexual, Affectional, Intersex, and Gender Expansive Identities in the counseling community. She provides trainings to other therapists at local and state conferences as well as professional development trainings to those in other related fields. Amber is also a member of the Conshohocken-Plymouth-Whitemarsh Rotary Club, through which she has been able to spread awareness and advocacy for mental health needs across the greater Philadelphia Area. When she’s not working, Amber enjoys reading, weightlifting, and spending time with her family, friends, and her dog Scruffs.

Resources:
https://welcomeprojectpa.org/saga/therapy/

https://saigecounseling.org/

http://pacounseling.org/aws/PACA/pt/sp/advocacy

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