Collaborative Minds Blog

Education to empower your mental health journey.

My Teen Thinks They Have Autism–But Are They Right? 
Nicole Ivelevitch Nicole Ivelevitch

My Teen Thinks They Have Autism–But Are They Right? 

Social media plays a huge role in influencing trends, especially amongst adolescents. But there’s one trend in particular that has caught the attention of healthcare providers and researchers all over the country; it’s become increasingly popular for teens to “self-diagnose” mental health conditions, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Keep reading to learn more about the signs and symptoms of ASD in teens, how to go about getting a formal diagnosis, and ways to support your teen’s needs.

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Motherhood in a Nutshell: Invisible Labor
Gabrielle Moskovitz, LSW Gabrielle Moskovitz, LSW

Motherhood in a Nutshell: Invisible Labor

Motherhood is exhausting, thrilling, rewarding, challenging, frustrating and, at times, undervalued or unrecognized. Keep reading to learn strategies to help manage your responsibilities and improve your quality of life.

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Relax & Recharge: The Mental Health Benefits of Spring Break & How to Maximize Them
Nicole Ivelevitch Nicole Ivelevitch

Relax & Recharge: The Mental Health Benefits of Spring Break & How to Maximize Them

With the days getting longer and warm weather approaching, Spring Break offers a much-needed respite from the routine hustle and bustle of daily life. But it's not just a chance to soak up some sun; it's a vital opportunity to prioritize your mental well-being. Keep reading for tips on how to make the most of your Spring Break for your mental health. 

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The Case for Adult Pacifiers: The Paradox of Psychotherapy
Max Kirshblum Max Kirshblum

The Case for Adult Pacifiers: The Paradox of Psychotherapy

The reality is we all rely on pacifiers. Whether it’s an overt silicone mold that can be seen from someone’s mouth or internalized/externalized behaviors one exhibits, is a different story. Keep reading for therapist Max Kirshblum’s explanation of this concept and what it means for you.

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Raising Teens with a Healthy Body Image
Nicole Ivelevitch Nicole Ivelevitch

Raising Teens with a Healthy Body Image

Parents are pretty aware of the fact that most teens struggle with insecurities; in fact, a recent study found that two-thirds of parents reported that their child is self-conscious about some aspect of their appearance. Keep reading to learn about how you can help your teen develop a positive relationship with food and their body.

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Unlocking the Power of Communication
Shira Somerstein Shira Somerstein

Unlocking the Power of Communication

With the kids at play dates, dinner in the oven, and the weather a manageable 45 degrees, Jen is determined to utilize the next 20 minutes by taking a walk with her husband. Emotional connection: check. Physical health: check. Mental health: check. What could go wrong? Keep reading to see how important communication can be and how to effectively express your needs.

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I Am Not Okay; How Are You?
Gabrielle Moskovitz, LSW Gabrielle Moskovitz, LSW

I Am Not Okay; How Are You?

One of the most common greetings nowadays is “How are you?” In turn, we are expected to respond with “Good, how are you?” But what if we are not “good”?

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Deepening Your Relationship with Your Teens: Benefits and Tips to Foster Trust
Nicole Ivelevitch Nicole Ivelevitch

Deepening Your Relationship with Your Teens: Benefits and Tips to Foster Trust

For a lot of parents, trying to get your teen to open up and talk to you about their lives can feel like pulling teeth–but it doesn’t have to be this way. Making an effort to foster your connection with your teen now can help to lay the foundation for a strong relationship even well into their adulthood. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of a strong parent-teen relationship and for tips on how to cultivate trust.

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Interpersonal Process Groups: What They Are and Who They’re For
Sara Schreiber Sara Schreiber

Interpersonal Process Groups: What They Are and Who They’re For

The term “Interpersonal Process Group” might sound a bit intimidating, but this type of group therapy is actually the perfect space for individuals who are looking to explore their feelings and connect with others in a safe, supportive environment. Keep reading to learn more about what interpersonal process groups are and whether or not you might benefit from joining one.

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7 Things Your Teen Wants You to Know (From a Licensed Therapist Specialized in Treating Teens)
Nicole Ivelevitch Nicole Ivelevitch

7 Things Your Teen Wants You to Know (From a Licensed Therapist Specialized in Treating Teens)

As parents, we’ve all been teens at one point…but raising teenagers can still feel like a total mystery at times. This time of their lives is crucial for exploring who they are and creating an identity of their own, but it’s equally as important to have your unconditional love and support (even if they pretend not to care). Practice owner and licensed clinical social worker Sara Schreiber shares 7 things teenagers want their parents to know but struggle to communicate themselves.

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Skills Groups vs. Process Groups: Which Type of Group Therapy is Right For You?
Nicole Ivelevitch Nicole Ivelevitch

Skills Groups vs. Process Groups: Which Type of Group Therapy is Right For You?

The term “Group Therapy” seems pretty self-explanatory…it’s just therapy, but in a group setting, right? Well, yes and no. There are many different types of therapy groups that differ based on the intended goals of the groups, the condition(s) they aim to treat, the clinical methods used by the facilitating therapists, and more. Keep reading to learn more about two of the most common types of group therapy, Skills Groups and Process Groups.

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Common Holiday Stressors and How to Handle Them 
Nicole Ivelevitch Nicole Ivelevitch

Common Holiday Stressors and How to Handle Them 

While the time between Thanksgiving and New Years is known as the “most wonderful time of the year,” it can also be the most stressful; in fact, one study found that a staggering 88% of Americans feel more stressed while celebrating the holidays. Keep reading to find out what some of the most common holiday stressors are and tips for handling them this holiday season.

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Healing Trauma with EMDR Therapy 
Nicole Ivelevitch Nicole Ivelevitch

Healing Trauma with EMDR Therapy 

For individuals who have experienced trauma, it can feel like you’ll never be the same–and this isn’t totally inaccurate. Research has shown that exposure to traumatic events can actually cause physical changes in our brains that make it harder for us to tolerate and cope with stress. The good news is that there are treatments you can use to help heal from these traumatic experiences and their consequences, one of the most effective being Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Keep reading to learn more about this incredible intervention and whether it sounds like the right treatment for you.

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Maternal Mental Health Matters Too
Gabrielle Moskovitz, LSW Gabrielle Moskovitz, LSW

Maternal Mental Health Matters Too

Being a mother is one of the hardest jobs in the world. We are told to care for our children, spouses, and the household, all while working, cooking, cleaning, shopping, and running errands. Rarely, do we get the opportunity to stop and reflect on what WE need from ourselves or others. It is obvious why up to 1 in 5 women experience a maternal mental health disorder in the postpartum period. These disorders include postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder, or psychosis. Especially in our culture where women are expected to return to work weeks after giving birth, with limited resources or benefits to support feeding their babies.

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