Advice & Support

Every intervention for psychiatric illness should have a desired outcome and a way to monitor progress and efficacy, says Dr. Barry Nurcombe. Otherwise you get "therapeutic drift."

Dr. Gabrielle Carlson tells us that, like any troubling behavior, parents should worry about extreme outbursts when they meet three criteria: they're persistent, pervasive, impairing.

'The functions of language are many,' Dr. Lydia Soifer says, and being able to differentiate how others are using it is a skill as important as vocabulary or conjugation. And it doesn't come easily to some.

Dr. Matt Cruger discusses how learning difficulties can lead to impairing anxiety in children if they don't have the right supports. The key is to help them experience success so they can tackle problems with confidence.

Melissa Ortega, PsyD, formerly of the Child Mind Institute, discusses how intensive intervention for children with selective mutism can turn around lives in really stunning ways--for all involved.

Dr. Gabrielle Carlson on what mental health professionals know--and don't know--about the future for these kids. One thing is certain: helping the child in the present is good medicine.

Dr. Jamie Howard discusses how parents in the armed services and their spouses can help their children thrive even when one parent is away for extended periods. One tip: keep lines of communication open.

The stress of overseas military deployment can affect not only service members but entire families as well. Dr. Jamie Howard discusses why families can have a tough time adjusting even after they are reunited.

Dr. Jamie Howard discusses how the Child Mind Institute is trying to help military service members, veterans, and their families navigate the mental health care system both for themselves and their kids.

Dr. Al Ravitz discusses how pornography's depiction of sex can skew a young person's views. We should help our children avoid harmful stereotypes and unrealistic expectations.