Get on the floor! Pt. 2
In brief summary, playing with our kids allows us to build a strong relationship built on trust and respect that can carry through to adolescence when it is invaluable. Additionally, we are building little humans during the early years and it is important to recognize play time as an opportunity to teach many lessons that our children will carry with them. Kids learn through play and we can take advantage of that. There are several other reasons we should get on the floor with our children.
Get on the floor!
Between all the technological advances over the past 10 years, it has never been easier to keep a kid occupied (side note: I did not say it is easy, just easier!). There are smartphones, and tablets, and Netflix, and Amazon Instant Video, and an infinite number of fancy new toys that are tailored to entertain our children. Can anyone honestly say they haven’t plopped their child down in front of the TV in order to get some adulting done? Didn’t think so. The problem is that we adults have so much on our plates that we feel as if we have to rely on these babysitting tools to just keep our own heads above water. Sadly, our lives have become so busy that it actually seems like a chore to spend quality time with our children! I find myself needing to take a step back every so often to remember just why it is so important that we carve out time to actually sit ON THE FLOOR and play with our two little girls.
Why online therapy?
Online therapy. E-therapy. Telemental health. However you describe it, it’s not the first thing that jumps to mind when most people think of therapy. They might know of Freud, think of laying down on a couch, or maybe they picture the typical cozy office space that most therapists utilize. With the prevalence of digital devices over the last 5 to 10 years, it may come as no surprise that some pioneering therapists decided to ask, “can I use this technology to help patients?” Researchers were up to the task of investigating that question, and they have primarily found it to be equally effective to its face to face counterpart for many mental health diagnoses. So what are some reasons someone would choose to use online therapy instead of visiting an office?
What is the Difference Between a Psychologist and a Psychiatrist
I am often asked whether I am a psychologist or psychiatrist. Even after six years of graduate school and becoming a licensed psychologist, there are family members who ask me to clarify the distinction. This is a good example of how most people only have a vague understanding of the mental health field, and that we have a long way to go in our efforts to increase education and reduce stigma. So, what IS the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?