Do you have a 6-12th grader that is struggling with low self-esteem, poor academic performance, acting-out behaviors, depression or anxiety? Are you at a loss about what to do, and how to help? If so, you are not alone! At Polaris Counseling, we understand the value of combining professional guidance with the support of your […]
Continue ReadingElizabeth Truly Listens
“Prior to meeting Elizabeth, I had tried a couple of therapists. She is the first one with whom I have truly made a connection. Our sessions allow me to be open and not feel judged or ashamed, and I feel as if Elizabeth truly listens, not just talks at me. I quickly learned that it […]
Continue ReadingShe Was The Angel I Needed
“I was recommended to see Elizabeth in June 2012 after going to the clinic for anti-anxiety medicine. It was clear to myself and the doctors that I needed therapy. I went to Elizabeth mainly to deal with my anxiety issues. It was affecting my work, personal relationship and my social interactions. I wanted to be […]
Continue ReadingHow Can I Get The Help I Need Without Feeling Worse About It?
Question: I’m in high school and everyone sees me as happy and perfect. Really, I have symptoms of an eating disorder, pretty bad self image and have cut in the past. I can’t tell anyone because I don’t want to let anyone down – especially my friends and family. How can I get the help […]
Continue ReadingDaily Herald Interviews Our President On Temper Tantrums!
Our founder and president, James Smithers, was interviewed by the Daily Herald last week on the topic of temper tantrums . As an experienced child and adolescent counselor and expert in his community, James shared his thoughts on when temper tantrums are more than just a normal part of child development, how to be proactive […]
Continue ReadingADHD – An Epidemic?
Recent studies show that an alarming 11% of children in the United States have been diagnosed with ADHD. These statistics raise legitimate concerns regarding the over-diagnosis of this mental health disorder and, in turn, the over-prescribing of psychotropic stimulant medications for children. Positively speaking, these numbers represent an increase in awareness among parents and professionals […]
Continue ReadingPolaris Welcomes Two New Counselors!
Polaris Counseling is pleased to announce that Julie Barbosa and Jennifer Loughran have joined our team! Julie Barbosa is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. Although Julie tailors her approach to the needs of each client, she finds Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Family […]
Continue ReadingMarilyn Recommends Reading…
Marilyn Andrew Recommends: The Me I Want to Be – John Ortberg 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens – Sean Covey Inside out and Outside In – Berzoff, Melano-Flanaghan & Herty The 5 Love Languages – Gary Chapman Crucial Conversations – Patterson, Grenny, McMillan & Switzler Boundaries – Henry Cloud Co-Dependent No More – Melody […]
Continue ReadingLisa Recommends Reading…
Lisa Banner Recommends: Teens Who Hurt – Hardy & Laszloffy Cutting – Steven Levenkron Recollections – Viktore E. Frankl 7 Days to Confidence – Rox Taylor Mindfulness and Psychotherapy – Germer, Siegel & Fulton The Bodacious Book of Succulence – Sark Coloring Your Prayers – Carolyn Manzi Theraplay – Jernberg & Booth On Grief and Grieving – […]
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