Mental Health
October 8, 2024 | Episode 4, Season 5
with Dr. Marjan Ebadi and Dr. Whitney Geller
In this new podcast episode we explore the meaning of validation and why it’s one of the most effective communication strategies for parents and caregivers. Although the term validation is often used, many people aren’t entirely sure what it really means or how to use it in conversations with others, including youth. Validation helps youth feel heard, understood, and valued, creating a strong emotional connection and goes beyond simply agreeing or offering comfort; it’s about acknowledging and accepting a child’s feelings as real and important. With CHC expert psychologists, Dr. Erin Hoolihan and Dr. Tracy Cavaligos, we talk about how to break down the steps to effectively validate emotions and share practical examples of how to respond in common scenarios where validation is key. This is one you will want to listen to again and again!
September 23, 2024 | Episode 3, Season 5
with Dr. Tracy Cavaligos and Dr. Erin Hoolihan
In this new podcast episode we explore the meaning of validation and why it’s one of the most effective communication strategies for parents and caregivers. Although the term validation is often used, many people aren’t entirely sure what it really means or how to use it in conversations with others, including youth. Validation helps youth feel heard, understood, and valued, creating a strong emotional connection and goes beyond simply agreeing or offering comfort; it’s about acknowledging and accepting a child’s feelings as real and important. With CHC expert psychologists, Dr. Erin Hoolihan and Dr. Tracy Cavaligos, we talk about how to break down the steps to effectively validate emotions and share practical examples of how to respond in common scenarios where validation is key. This is one you will want to listen to again and again!
September 9, 2024 | Episode 2, Season 5
with Dr. Emily Hsu and Julia Terman
Adolescence is a period of growth in which youth are discovering who they are and where they belong. In this insightful podcast episode, we discuss the dynamic and sometimes challenging journey of parenting adolescents. As children transition into the teen years, parents face new and unique challenges. Although this time can be a fearful time for parents/caregivers because they are not sure what to expect, it can also be a time of joy and hope. Listen in to this conversation with CHC experts, Dr. Patrice Crisostomo, and Dr. Emily Hsu, both Licensed Psychologists, as we explore practical tips, expert advice, and proven strategies to help parents navigate this crucial phase of their child's development.
August 23, 2024 | Episode 1, Season 5
with Pardis Khosravi, PsyD
Adolescence is a period of growth in which youth are discovering who they are and where they belong. In this insightful podcast episode, we discuss the dynamic and sometimes challenging journey of parenting adolescents. As children transition into the teen years, parents face new and unique challenges. Although this time can be a fearful time for parents/caregivers because they are not sure what to expect, it can also be a time of joy and hope. Listen in to this conversation with CHC experts, Dr. Patrice Crisostomo, and Dr. Emily Hsu, both Licensed Psychologists, as we explore practical tips, expert advice, and proven strategies to help parents navigate this crucial phase of their child's development.
December 4, 2023 | Episode 8, Season 4
with Dr. Katie Reeves
Recent statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reveal a concerning surge in persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness among high school girls in particular. In just a decade, these numbers have nearly doubled. In today’s episode, we talk with Dr. Katie Reeves, health researcher and Nurse Practitioner who specializes in the care of anxious, suicidal, and self-harming teens and their families. We explore the prevalence of mental health challenges among adolescent girls, from social pressures to the influence of social media and more. Listen now to learn more about what you can do to support our adolescent girls today.
October 23, 2023 | Episode 5, Season 4
with Sean Nesamoney
In this episode we have the opportunity to hear about the remarkable journey of Sean Nesamoney, who was a high school student with a love and talent for music. It’s a testament to the synergy between music and mental health, showcasing how Sean’s passion for music became a vision for a concert to highlight and support teen mental health resources in the community. As you listen, you’ll be moved by Sean’s dedication to making a difference around teen mental health and also inspire others to take action. As Sean says, “I hope that listeners are inspired to just start. If there’s a project in mind that you want to pursue or an issue that’s important to you, just start, because you never know where it could take you.”
September 11, 2023 | Episode 2, Season 4
with Cheri & Jack
Today’s podcast episode underscores the power of resilience, understanding and growth in the face of mental health challenges. Join us for this conversation with Jack and his mom, Cheri. Jack was a teen who seemingly had it all — popular with his peers, strong friendships, a leader on the Varsity track team and a very strong student (graduated as Valedictorian of his class!). Yet, beneath the surface, Jack grappled with an internal battle with anxiety and OCD that would reshape his life in unexpected ways. How could this accomplished student and leader on the track struggle with these feelings that seemed insurmountable? Cheri, Jack’s mom, expresses that she knew something wasn’t quite right, but wasn’t sure how to help. And then Jack started talking about what was going on underneath the surface. Cheri knew that Jack needed help, and she was determined to find that help even though it proved challenging. Join us to hear this conversation with Jack and his mom — it’s a story about struggle, but also about hope and resilience.
June 20, 2023 | Episode 22, Season 3
with NCLD Young Adult Leadership Council Alumni
People with learning disabilities and mental health challenges are often implicitly or explicitly taught to overcome their differences. Try harder, push through, fix and succeed. These messages of normalization can lead to shame, a desire to hide our true selves, decreased likelihood of success and increased mental health challenges. Today’s podcast episode was first aired live and is sponsored by The Schwab Learning Center at CHC and the National Council for Learning Disabilities (NCLD). Hosted by our very own Natalie Tamburello and featuring NCLD Young Adult Leadership Council alumni––Misha Nicholas, Rachelle Johnson and Stevie Mays––we are excited to share their candid conversation with those of you who missed it. Hear their unique journeys and learn how each learned to embrace their differences as proud parts of their identity rather than deficiencies to overcome.
June 5, 2023 | Episode 21, Season 3
with Bayan Jalalizadeh, MD and Liberty Hebron, LPCC
ADHD is the most common neurodevelopmental disorder among U.S. children and adolescents, leading to differences in attention, impulsivity, energy and behavior. All of this can be disruptive to a child’s school and learning experience as well as their social-emotional wellbeing. There is no cure for ADHD, but there are treatments available to reduce the impact of these brain differences on a child’s functioning. How do you know what will work best for your child? Join us for today’s podcast episode as CHC’s Catherine T. Harvey Center for Clinical Services experts Bayan Jalalizadeh, MD, licensed psychiatrist and Liberty Hebron, LPCC, licensed clinical counselor, dive into the research behind ADHD and options for treatment.
May 15, 2023 | Episode 20, Season 3
with Dr. Zahra Murtaza and Dr. Sarah Griest
Studies indicate that Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is “the best tool we have” for self-harming and suicidal adolescents. So what is it and why is it so effective? DBT teaches important social-emotional and resilience skills for life enhancement. Based on the dialectic of acceptance and change, skills include mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, communication, emotion regulation and distress tolerance. In today’s podcast episode, we talk with CHC’s Catherine T. Harvey Center for Clinical Services experts, Dr. Zahra Murtaza, Ravenswood Coordinator and Psychologist and Dr. Sarah Griest, RISE IOP clinician to learn more about this gold-standard treatment for building a life worth living.
April 3, 2023 | Episode 17, Season 3
with Pamela Olson, MOT, OTR/L
When you hear a sound, how do you respond? You might choose to ignore it or investigate its source. This process of using our senses to interpret a situation and respond in a purposeful way is called sensory integration. When these systems don’t synthesize, whether due to a diagnosis like autism or ADHD or to a skills deficit, it can lead to a whole host of learning and behavioral challenges. Studies have found that 1 in every 6 children has sensory processing issues that make it more difficult for them to thrive in school. In today’s podcast episode, we sit down with CHC’s Catherine T. Harvey Center for Clinical Services Occupational Therapist, Pamela Olson, MOT, OTR/L, to learn how best to support our child’s sensory skills development and what to do when things don’t seem quite right.
February 22, 2023 | Episode 16, Season 3
with Tracy Cavaligos, PsyD and Olivia McDonald, PsyD
A 2022 Pew Research Center study revealed that nearly 80% of 13-17 year-olds check at least one social media feed at least hourly, and over a third said they did so “almost constantly.” How can we develop healthy social media practices that support, not hinder, our mental health? In today’s podcast episode, CHC’s Catherine T. Harvey Center for Clinical Services experts Dr. Tracy Cavaligos, Licensed Psychologist and Dr. Olivia McDonald, Psychology Postdoctoral Fellow, talk about how to manage social media’s influence and develop skills to check-in with and take care of ourselves.
February 22, 2023 | Episode 15, Season 3
with Krislyn Li Conklin, MA and Kaila Sugiyama, MA, LMFT
Today’s episode was developed in response to a request from our partners at Palo Alto Unified School District…and while it’s great for all listeners, is intended especially for teachers! Increasingly, educators are being asked to manage not just the academic and social-emotional wellbeing of their students, but also address mental health challenges and learning differences in the classroom. We know it’s not possible to do it all, but today’s podcast episode shares some structures and strategies to support struggling students and promote a safe, positive learning environment for all. In addition to tips and takeaways, CHC’s Esther B. Clark (EBC) Schools staff Krislyn Conklin, MA and Kaila Sugiyama, MA, LMFT, remind teachers that “recognizing your own humanity in all of this is the most important.”
February 14, 2023 | Episode 14, Season 3
with Sharmila Roy, PhD
In honor of Valentine’s Day, today’s podcast is all about pursuing what you love. While it’s never too late to follow your dreams, we hope you’ll share this inspiring episode with the young adults in your life! We have all heard the phrase, “find a job you love, and you’ll never work another day in your life.” But is it really possible? Do we have to choose between happiness and a living wage? What if we’re still figuring out what fulfills us? While “pursuing your passion” may not be as easy as it sounds, Dr. Sharmila Roy, Special Projects Consultant at The Schwab Learning Center at CHC shares her sage advice in this special episode. “Explore yourself and give time to finding out what you love, then life will love you back.”
January 30, 2023 | Episode 13, Season 3
with Melina Foden, PsyD and Atira Roberson
Navigating learning and mental health challenges is difficult; adding racial and ethnic diversity to the mix can magnify the inequities and complexities of the journey. In today’s podcast episode we talk with Dr. Melina Foden, licensed clinical psychologist at CHC’s Catherine T. Harvey Center for Clinical Services and Atira Roberson, a full-time learning disabilities advocate who proudly proclaims, “I'm black, I'm female, and I have a learning disability.” Our guest host is my CHC colleague, Natalie Tamburello, who has dyslexia and has invested the past several years advocating for young adults with learning differences. The conversation delves into diagnosis, accommodations, stigma and resilience.
December 5, 2022 | Episode 9, Season 3
with Christine Pearston, PsyD
Many twice exceptional (2e) children feel different, like they just don’t fit in, and can be more susceptible to mental health challenges. They may feel isolated from their peers because of their giftedness and their neurodiversity, whether it be autism, learning differences, ADHD, anxiety or otherwise. Some live with the constant feeling that they are not living up to their ‘gifted’ potential, or feel the weight of the world on their shoulders. With this in mind, how can parents, caregivers and educators effectively support 2e children? Join us for today’s podcast episode as we talk with Christine Pearston, PsyD, licensed clinical psychologist at CHC’s Catherine T. Harvey Center for Clinical Services, who suggests we start by looking at the whole child — strengths, interests and challenges alike.
November 14, 2022 | Episode 8, Season 3
with Chris Harris, MEd and Miki Walker
Most kids complain about school sometimes. But if your child’s gripes come almost daily and they are begging you not to go to school at all, you might be wondering if there’s something deeper going on. Are they falling behind? Not making friends? Does the pace of instruction leave them feeling lost and confused? If feedback from parent/teacher conferences validates your concerns, perhaps it’s time to consider a different type of school environment. Join us for this timely conversation with CHC education experts, Chris Harris, MEd, Chief Schools Officer and Miki Walker, Director of Sand Hill School, as we discuss the many different types of specialized schools and how to know whether to make the change for your child.
November 2, 2022 | Episode 7, Season 3
with Leeanne Merritt, LCSW and Karen Moos, LCSW
Emotional regulation is the ability to control our emotional state so that it matches the situation at-hand. It is not something we are born knowing how to do, but rather we learn over time. How can we teach our kids to respond to various situations appropriately, even if it means behaving on the outside differently than they are feeling on the inside? In today’s podcast episode, CHC Licensed Clinical Social Workers Leeanne Merritt and Karen Moos share strategies for helping our kids and teens develop critical emotional regulation skills. Hint: it’s not about jumping in and trying to solve or make those feelings change or go away. “Sometimes,” says Karen, “they just need to sit with the feeling and eventually figure out how to regulate themselves.
October 11, 2022 | Episode 6, Season 3
with Eric Loughhead, LMFT and Jensi Gise, MA
Sleep. We all need it and yet most of us don’t get enough of it. Did you know that the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends 9-12 hours per night for younger kids and 8-10 hours for teens? It’s hard to fit everything in––from school work and sports to social lives and screens. But the importance of sleep on our physical and mental health cannot be understated. Tune into today’s podcast episode to hear from CHC’s Catherine T. Harvey Center for Clinical Services experts Eric Loughhead, LMFT and Jensi Gise, MA as they share the science and strategies behind a good night’s sleep.
October 5, 2022 | Episode 5, Season 3
with Audrey Schield, ASW
Almost every day it seems that we are exposed to various acts of violence — school shootings, war, terrorism and more. As a result, our kids can end up feeling confused, frightened and unsafe. How can we validate those feelings while providing comfort to our kids? How do we encourage them to ask questions, even if we may not have all the answers? Should we wait until they come to us or bring it up ourselves? In today’s podcast episode, we talk with Audrey Schield, bilingual Associate Social Worker at CHC’s Catherine T. Harvey Center for Clinical Services, as she shares strategies for crafting developmentally appropriate conversations with your kids about violence.
September 21, 2022 | Episode 4, Season 3
with George Alex Lazo, PsyD
In honor of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, we continue our coverage of this complex topic in our Voices of Compassion podcast series with a brand new episode. For youth ages 10-24, suicide is the second leading cause of death in the US. It is complicated, tragic and often preventable: knowing the warning signs can help save lives. Join us for a conversation with Jennifer Leydecker, LMFT, Clinical Program Manager at CHC’s Catherine T. Harvey Center for Clinical Services, who works with high-risk teens every day in our RISE Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP). Jennifer shares expert advice on how to talk about emotions with your child or teen, where to find resources and support, and warning signs and protective factors for suicide.
September 19, 2022 | Episode 3, Season 3
with George Alex Lazo, PsyD
Nearly half of Americans report feeling left out or alone, and over two-thirds of teens report being lonely. Research shows that loneliness and social isolation are twice as harmful to physical and mental health as obesity. But did you know that even just one friend can be enough? Tune in to today’s episode as we talk with Dr. George “Alex” Lazo, licensed clinical psychologist at CHC’s Catherine T. Harvey Center for Clinical Services, about the difference between being alone and lonely, how to build tolerance in our kids and the importance of “checking in.”
September 19, 2022 | Episode 2, Season 3
with Jody M. Miller, EdD, BCBA
School avoidance has become a major issue, exacerbated by long periods of distance learning and isolation. What causes school avoidance? How does it show up in kids and how can parents effectively support their children in getting back to the classroom? In today’s conversation with Dr. Jody Miller, Head of Esther B. Clark Schools at CHC, we learn that by identifying the motivating factors for kids to want to go to school, we can better understand and address the anxiety around their absence. Dr. Miller is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and has spent her career working with students who struggle to participate in typical classroom settings.
September 14, 2022 | Episode 1, Season 3
with Christopher Harris, MEd
Social-emotional health is fundamental to life and learning: in fact, research shows that it is a greater predictor of academic success than IQ. As our kids head back to school, we are mindful of what they have been through in the past few years and the youth mental health crisis in our midst. How can we as parents best support our children’s social-emotional wellbeing at home and in the classroom? CHC’s Chief Education Officer, Chris Harris, MEd shares timely tips in today’s podcast episode.
May 25, 2022 | Episode 32, Season 2
with Grace Gengoux, PhD, BCBA-D and Ramsey Khasho, PSyD
In proud partnership with Common Ground, a locally renowned speaker series for over 15,000 families in over 40 schools, we are excited to bring you this Voices of Compassion podcast episode. While Common Ground is primarily a parent education consortium, this conversation is specifically targeted to mental health professionals in schools and beyond. We’ve all heard the self-care metaphor for parents: “put your own oxygen mask on first.” But this is just as critical for mental health providers: your own well-being is essential to providing positive outcomes for your students and clients. Listen into this eye-opening conversation with Dr. Grace Gengoux, Clinical Professor and the Well-being Director within Stanford University’s Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Dr. Ramsey Khasho, Chief Clinical Officer at CHC, as they share self-care strategies for those in a position to care for others.
May 18, 2022 | Episode 31, Season 2
with Tracy Cavaligos, PsyD
Between 2009 and 2019, the percentage of teens who reported having “persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness” rose from 26 percent to 37 percent and, in 2021, to 44 percent. Further, research shows that 1 in 5 youth in distress felt that they didn’t have someone they could turn to in a crisis. How can we let our teens know we’re here for them and protect them from significant mental health challenges? How do we know what to say, or even where to begin? In today’s podcast episode, CHC clinical services expert, Dr. Tracy Cavaligos shares myriad tips and takeaways for talking to our teens about mental health.
May 10, 2022 | Episode 30, Season 2
with Karly Crockett, LCSW and Audrey Schield, ASW
We often talk about building self-awareness in our kids, but what about in ourselves, as parents and caregivers? The better we understand our own complexities, the more wholeheartedly we can show up for our children. In fact, research shows that when a parent understands themselves better, the child has better overall life outcomes. In today’s podcast episode, CHC Clinical Services experts Audrey Schield, Bilingual Associate Social Worker and Karly Crockett, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, share self-awareness stories and strategies for more present and intentional parenting.
April 5, 2022 | Episode 26, Season 2
with Christa Johnson, PsyD and Jessica Shankman, MA
Anxiety is a healthy emotion, except when it’s not. Experiencing anxiety can be just what we need to finish a project or task, or deal with a stressful situation. But it can also be overwhelming and debilitating. In today’s podcast episode, CHC experts Jessica Shankman, MA, Doctoral Psychology Intern, and Christa Johnson, PsyD, Licensed Clinical Psychologist help us understand what’s normal and when to worry. Don’t miss this important conversation, covering everything from the differences between stress and anxiety, warning signs and behaviors, the mental health impacts of the pandemic and how to know when to seek help.
January 13, 2022 | Episode 17, Season 2
with Callie Turk and Vivien Keil, PhD
Parenting is never easy, but raising a child with exceptional talents who also struggles with learning differences (such as autism, ADHD or dyslexia) is even more complex. This combination of giftedness and challenges — known as twice exceptional (2e) — creates a confusing picture for parents and educators. It can be difficult to see the signs of 2e because it looks different in every child. Their strengths can mask their challenges and their challenges can mask their strengths. Today we talk with Callie Turk, a parent of a 2e child and Dr. Vivien Keil, neuropsychologist, about the journey of understanding and parenting these unique and extraordinary kids.
January 6, 2022 | Episode 16, Season 2
with Jennifer Leydecker, LMFT
It’s hard to imagine, but essential to talk about. While we shudder to think of our teens injuring themselves intentionally, cutting and other forms of self-harm are on the rise, affecting 1 in 12 youth and increasing 99% during the pandemic. In today’s episode, we welcome back Jennifer Leydecker, LMFT to the podcast, to discuss what self-harm looks like in adolescents and how to validate their hurt while encouraging healthier coping strategies. As Clinical Program Manager and Clinician at the RISE Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), Jennifer is an expert at helping teens regulate big emotions in a nonjudgmental way.
December 16, 2021 | Episode 15, Season 2
with Anne Mellenthin & Grae Mellenthin
We hear more about gender expression these days than we used to. Yet it’s rare to hear a raw, firsthand account about what it really feels like when your gender identity doesn’t match your biological gender — from shame and stigma to self-awareness and acceptance. In this episode, we hear from a trans adult and his mom as they share their inspiring journey. We talk about body dysmorphia, mental health issues, determination, self-acceptance and transitioning. Ultimately, theirs is a love story between mother and son, and son and self that applies to us all.
November 10, 2021 | Episode 11, Season 2
with Jennifer Salomon, OTD, OTR/L
It seems like everyone is talking about mindfulness these days. A quick Google search results in 9 Ways to Practice Mindfulness, 16 Types of Meditation and 28 Ways to Practice Mindfulness for Beginners. There is so much out there. So what is mindfulness, really, and does it even make a difference? Do I have to empty my head of all my thoughts, and sit cross-legged on the floor in a zen-like state? Listen in to this podcast episode as we talk with Jennifer Salomon, Occupational Therapist at CHC about the physiology of mindfulness and practical ways to be more present (even for skeptics). Because “as soon as we tune in and recognize that we're not being mindful, we're already being mindful.”
October 7, 2021 | Episode 7, Season 2
with Joan Baran, PhD
From the minute we become parents, we start fixating on sleep — are our babies getting enough? Too much? Will they ever sleep through the night? Will we? It’s a hot topic because we know how critical it is for healthy development, both mental and physical. As our kids turn to teens, we may monitor their sleep less, but it doesn’t become less important to their wellbeing and academic performance. Teens can face many impediments to consistent, restorative sleep, including stress, with an estimated 70-75% of teens getting less than the recommended 8 hours per night. In this podcast episode, we sat down with two CHC experts — Dr. Joan Baran, Clinical Director at CHC, and Deepika Bose, Doctoral Psychology Intern — to learn strategies for helping your teen develop healthy sleep habits. You may even want to try some yourself!
May 27, 2021 | Episode 33, Season 1
with Vivien Keil, PhD
For the past 15 months, we’ve been carefully following safety protocols, and strict mandates have helped inform our decisions. Now, as we come out of our COVID caves, the rules are more ambiguous and varying comfort levels collide. It can create a whole new wave of anxiety around what feels safe, especially when our precautions don’t match those around us. In some ways life was simpler in our caves, where we could more easily protect our families. In this podcast episode, CHC’s Clinical Director and Neuropsychologist, Dr. Vivien Keil, shares coping strategies for easing our family’s way back into the world with courage and compassion.
December 17, 2020 | Episode 12, Season 1
with Cindy Lopez, Liza Bennigson and Mike Navarrete
This is a holiday season like no other. It can be hard to feel festive in the absence of friends and loved ones. As we all hunker down in our own homes, it may seem lonely or insular, but there are still so many ways to find (and share) holiday cheer!
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