Parenting

Potted plant with a taped piece of paper above it which says "hello, my name is (blank), and I'm a narcaholic."

A NEW TAKE ON LIFE

By Jessica Pottorff / May 10, 2023

We are born with social attachment points through how our parents try and mold us in childhood. Seeking a hit of certain neurotransmitters, children look for approval from their parents & will try to correlate their actions with positive responses. As adolescents, we replace parents with peers – oxytocin is released as a result of social belonging or validation.

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Photo of a mom and child consoling each other. Text that reads, If not mom, then who?

If Not You Mom, Then Who?

By Jessica Pottorff / May 18, 2022

When a child, adolescent, or young adult is struggling with an addiction or a mental health issue, parents usually feel the need to jump in and fix the problem. While addiction is a family sickness, it seems that mothers are the most impacted by their son or daughter’s substance abuse or untreated mental health. Let’s look at how being compassionate can not only help you but also your child.

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20 Family and Parenting Books

20 Great Books about Family Dynamics and Parenting

By New Life Counseling / May 9, 2022

Do you feel lost? Are you struggling to connect with your children? Are you overwhelmed with the powerful tasks of parenting? Don’t worry. You are not alone. Whether your family is going through a huge life transition, or your teen won’t listen to you, we’ve gathered 22 great books on family dynamics and parenting. Hopefully,…

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8 Books about Emotions for Children

By New Life Counseling / May 9, 2022

The earlier we connect and understand our emotions, the better we will be able to respond to all kinds of situations. Emotions are valid. Mental health is important. Mental health matters. Let’s teach it to our children. Let’s help our teens understand mental health. When our children know how to express their emotions and speak…

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Navy and green background with gray and white circles. "Legacy Building" in large text. Text below that reads "What will you leave behind? What do you want to leave as your legacy?"

Legacy Building: What will you leave behind?

By Dr. Donald Gilbert, MS, PhD, LMHC, BCPC / June 16, 2021

Your legacy is something that lasts long after you’re gone- it’s not just about money. It is the relational ideals, the intangibles, the attitudes, the Godly perspective, and principles that will guide them as they pass those qualities on to their children. What Legacy are you passing on this father’s day?

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Our-Thankful-Tree-thanksgiving-2020-family activity

Thanksgiving Gratitude

By Sarah Heimbruch / November 25, 2020

Why you too can be grateful for 2020 and a free Thankful Tree Gratitude activity download! “Reflect upon your present blessings- of which every man has many- not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some.” Charles Dickens Did you know that practicing regular gratitude not only improves your mental outlook on life,…

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suicide prevention month 2020 and helping your kids with their childhood anxiety- strategies and coping mechanisms.

You Just Have To Listen

By New Life Counseling / September 10, 2020

Child Anxiety and Suicide Prevention Month Studies show that parental depression and anxiety can have a potential long-term effect on kids; mental health problems are dramatically rising as a secondary effect of Covid19 and social distancing measures. Everyone is stressed and anxious right now, and that includes children. In this unprecedented time, we need to…

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Control Talk

By Dr. Donald Gilbert, MS, PhD, LMHC, BCPC / August 11, 2020

Everyone wants some level of control in their life. It makes us feel safe, solid, and independent. However, problems can arise when we force that control onto those around us. Have you ever been told that you’re controlling? Have you ever taken time to reflect on how your communication style may be unconsciously communicating something…

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World Day against trafficking in persons feature image

Human Trafficking: what is it and how to talk to your children and teens

By New Life Counseling / July 28, 2020

Human trafficking is slavery. There are millions of slaves in the world today. More than ever before in human history. Only an estimated 1% of victims are ever rescued. It is the fastest-growing criminal industry in the world, generating more than $150 billion USD every year. Human trafficking is a crime that strips people of…

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The Importance of Family Fun

By Sarah Heimbruch / June 25, 2020

When I think back to my childhood, my most cherished memories are the days spent outside playing, the laughter with my siblings and parents, and the moments of fun with my family. I don’t remember the times we went out to eat or went to the movies. I now have three kids of my own…

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