Families Archives - Wallace Family Psychotherapy

Teen Suicide: Always Take a Cry for Help Seriously

September 21, 2023 by Robin Wallace

Teenage Girl Praying

There has been a sharp increase in the number of adolescent suicides. According to the CDC, the suicide rate among adolescents and young adults from ages 10 to 24 has jumped 60% since 2011. Teens have reported struggling with feelings of sadness, hopelessness, loneliness, and persistent thoughts of suicide. More than 20% of teens have seriously contemplated taking their own life according to the American Psychological Association. That’s why supporting the well-being of our children is more important than ever. September is Suicide Awareness Month. Here are a few important signs you should be aware of and things you can do to mitigate suicidal behavior. [Read more…]

Let’s Talk About Barbie and Body Image

August 14, 2023 by Robin Wallace

Plastic Barbie doll heads and torso pieces

When I was a girl, I played with Barbies and had many different types of Barbie dolls. I had it all: the Malibu house, the car, and the clothes. With the Barbie movie out now and the doll’s popularity again soaring, it got me to thinking about the connection between this iconic doll and body image. [Read more…]

Why It’s Important to Talk to Your Kids About Sex

June 1, 2023 by Robin Wallace

It’s Easier Than You Might Think

Mother talking with teenage daughter

Many parents nowadays think that it’s okay to be friends with their child. In fact, trying to be your child’s friend can be confusing. Kids need boundaries and rules. They look to you for guidance. Your child sees the choices you make in life, and they get a good sense of what is right and wrong. They may not always show it, but those lessons become a part of their moral compass. Your kids are navigating the choppy waters of adolescence—that includes sex. That’s why it’s important to talk to them about sex, and that conversation needs to come from you. [Read more…]

When Kids Think They’re Sick and They’re Really Not

February 1, 2023 by Robin Wallace

It’s not as bad as you think

Teen girl curled up with anxiety

The whole world has been through a lot these last couple of years. Those of us who made it through the pandemic now have to look at the world in a whole new way. That includes kids. They spent the better part of a year or more in lockdown away from their teachers and their friends. They are back in school, but instead of transitioning to the way things were pre-pandemic, what we see now is that being in lockdown has negatively affected many children who now show signs of physical and social underdevelopment and a marked increase in levels of stress, anxiety, fighting, and self-harm. [Read more…]

How To Boost Your Confidence This Holiday Season

November 17, 2022 by Robin Wallace

Woman celebrating with sparklers in her hands

The holidays can be hell.

For those of you who don’t feel comfortable in your own skin on a good day, the holidays can be especially stressful. Being surrounded by friends and family who may not understand what you’re going through can make you feel vulnerable and threaten to undo all your accomplishments.

First, let me remind you to be patient with yourself. Learning to love your body and who you are takes time. It’s a process. It’s okay to do what you need to do to feel safe and good about yourself.

Here is a list of seven things you can do over the holidays that can boost your confidence and keep your progress on track. [Read more…]