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ADHD and Therapy: Evidence-Based Approaches That Work

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 16:00:11 GMT

Therapy for ADHD: Evidence-Based Approaches That Actually Work

Millions of children and adults live with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. If you or your child with ADHD struggles with focus, impulsivity, or hyperactivity, you might wonder: does therapy really help? The answer is yes. Research shows that behavioral therapy can improve symptoms of ADHD and make daily life easier.

This article explains the most effective types of therapy for ADHD. You'll learn how they work and what to expect from treatment. Whether you're looking for help for a child with ADHD or therapy for adults, understanding your choices helps you make good decisions. Many people find that therapy gives them tools to manage ADHD successfully. Some use therapy alone. Others combine it with medication.

Article Outline:

What is therapy for ADHD and how does it help? What are the main types of behavioral therapy for ADHD? How does cognitive behavioral therapy work for adults with ADHD? What is behavior therapy and how does it help children? Does therapy work better than medication for treating ADHD? How does parent coaching help families with children who have ADHD? What can adults with ADHD expect from therapy? How do therapists help kids with ADHD improve attention and activity? What other therapies support ADHD treatment? How do I find the right therapy for my child or myself?

What Is Therapy for ADHD and How Does It Help?

Therapy for ADHD teaches practical skills to manage symptoms. It's different from medication. Medication changes brain chemistry. Therapy changes behaviors and thought patterns, which can lead to more lasting success. The American Academy of Pediatrics says behavioral therapy should be the first treatment of ADHD for young children. It's also an important part of the treatment plan for older kids and adults.

ADHD therapy can help in many ways. For children, it teaches skills like following directions and staying organized. It helps kids control their impulses and manage emotional or behavioral challenges . For adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, therapy tackles work problems and relationship issues. It helps with time management too. Therapy also helps people understand their ADHD better, and this understanding helps people to feel better about themselves after therapy.

The goal isn't to "cure" ADHD. ADHD is lifelong. Instead, therapy helps you work with your brain. You learn to use your strengths. You build systems that help with your challenges. Many people diagnosed with ADHD say therapy gives them tools that medication alone can't provide.

What Are the Main Types of Behavioral Therapy for ADHD?

Several types of therapy have strong research support for treating ADHD. These therapies focus on changing specific behaviors.

Behavior therapy is the most studied form of therapy for children and adults with ADHD. This type of therapy can help by teaching new behaviors through positive reinforcement . Therapists work with families to spot problem behaviors. They set clear rules. They provide rewards for desired behavior. For example, a child might earn points for finishing homework. Those points can be traded for fun activities.

Cognitive behavioral therapy combines behavior change with changing thought patterns. "Cognitive" means thinking. This approach works well as therapy for adults with ADHD who have negative thoughts or anxiety. CBT teaches you to notice unhelpful thoughts. You learn to replace them with better, more helpful thinking.

Parent coaching is key for families with children who have ADHD. In these programs, parents learn behavioral interventions to use at home. They learn how to give clear instructions. They discover how to use charts and checklists to track progress. They learn to respond the same way every time to their child's behavior. Research shows parent training reduces ADHD symptoms a lot. It also helps the whole family get along better.

How Does Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Work for Adults With ADHD?

Cognitive behavioral therapy works really well as therapy for adults. Many adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder have spent years feeling frustrated. They've struggled for a long time. CBT helps change both the behaviors caused by ADHD and the negative thoughts that come with it.

In CBT sessions, you learn practical ways to get organized. Your therapist might teach you to use planners. You learn to break big tasks into smaller steps. You create routines that work with your brain instead of against it. You practice these skills between sessions. Then you talk with your therapist about what worked and what didn't.

CBT also addresses feelings. Living with adult ADHD can be hard emotionally. Many people develop anxiety or depression . They feel bad about repeated struggles with attention and activity. Your therapist helps you spot thought patterns. Things like "I'm lazy" or "I'll never succeed." You learn to replace these with more accurate thoughts. This cognitive therapy part improves how you feel about yourself. It also helps you function better.

Adults with ADHD often need more focused therapy than children. Building new habits takes time. This is especially true when you're unlearning years of strategies that didn't work. Most people go to weekly therapy sessions for several months. Some continue less often for ongoing support.

What Is Behavior Therapy and How Does It Help Children?

Behavior therapy for children focuses on two things; Increasing helpful behaviors and decreasing problem behaviors. This treatment of ADHD works by changing what happens before and after behaviors through behavior modification. This makes good behaviors more likely to happen.

A therapist working with a child with ADHD starts by picking target behaviors. These are specific things to work on. Maybe finishing homework, getting ready for school on time, and playing nicely with siblings. Many of these are school-related challenges that parents notice first. Parents and teachers learn to give clear, specific instructions. They give immediate feedback. They provide rewards when tasks are done well. They have consistent consequences for breaking rules.

The therapy techniques in behavior therapy are very structured. Many programs use token systems. Children earn points or stickers for positive behaviors. They can trade these tokens for privileges or small rewards. This immediate feedback helps kids with ADHD. These kids often struggle with waiting for rewards. The quick feedback keeps them motivated.

Behavior therapy and medication together often work better than either alone. This is especially true for children. The American Academy of Pediatrics says to start with behavioral approaches for preschoolers. Then add medication if needed for older children. This combination tackles ADHD symptoms in multiple ways.

Does Therapy Work Better Than Medication for Treating ADHD?

The best treatment plan for ADHD often includes both. Research shows that behavioral therapy alone can work very well. This is especially true for mild to moderate cases. But many people diagnosed with ADHD get the best results from combining approaches. They use therapy and medication to treat symptoms.

For young children with ADHD, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends behavior therapy first. Studies show that parent training and behavioral interventions can help a lot. They reduce hyperactivity. They improve attention in preschoolers. Adding medication may not help more for this age group. It also has more risks.

For school-age kids with ADHD and adults, research is clear. Combination treatment works best for most people. Medication can improve focus quickly. It reduces impulsivity fast. Therapy teaches skills that medication can't give you. Skills like organization. Time management. Handling emotions. Together, they address both the brain chemistry and the behavior parts of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Some people prefer not to use medication. Others can't tolerate its side effects. For them, therapy alone can still help a lot. The key is working with qualified professionals. They can help you find the right approach for your situation.

How Does Parent Coaching Help Families With Children Who Have ADHD?

Parent coaching is a special form of therapy. It teaches parents effective ways to manage their child's behavior. This type of therapy can help the whole family, not just the child with ADHD.

In parent coaching programs, you learn specific techniques. These are based on behavioral approaches. You learn how to give instructions your child can actually follow. You learn how to set up your home to support success. You learn to respond consistently to both good and bad behaviors. Many programs teach you to use charts and checklists. These help your child track their progress toward goals.

These programs also help parents understand ADHD better. When you know your child's behavior isn't on purpose, you can be more patient. The behavior is a symptom of how their brain works. It's not defiance. You learn to pick your battles. You focus on the most important changes first.

Research shows parent training works really well for young children. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends it as the first treatment for preschoolers with ADHD. Even for older children and teens, involving parents helps. Parents provide consistency at home. This reinforces what children learn in therapy sessions.

What Can Adults With ADHD Expect From Therapy?

Therapy for adults with ADHD looks different from therapy for children. Adult treatment focuses on practical life skills. It also addresses the buildup of living with untreated ADHD for years.

In your first therapy sessions, your therapist checks your specific challenges. Adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder struggle with different things than children do. You might have trouble managing money.

Maintaining relationships can be hard. Work performance might suffer. Your treatment plan targets the areas causing you the most trouble.

Many adults learn organizational systems made for ADHD. Therapy for executive functioning teaches you to use smartphone apps, planners, and other tools to manage time and tasks. You practice breaking large projects into smaller chunks. You build routines that support your goals. These skills become habits through practice. You troubleshoot problems with your therapist.

Therapy for adults often includes working on feelings too. Many adults with ADHD also have anxiety or depression. These happen alongside attention difficulties. Your therapist helps you develop ways to cope with stress. You work on improving how you feel about yourself. Some people also work on relationship skills. They learn to communicate better with partners, family, or coworkers.

How Do Therapists Help Kids With ADHD Improve Attention and Activity?

Therapists use specific techniques to help children who have ADHD. They help kids develop better attention skills. They help manage hyperactivity. These approaches are based on behavioral therapy research.

One common technique teaches children to notice their own behavior. A therapist might help a child spot when they're losing focus. Then they use a strategy to refocus. This self-awareness is harder for kids with ADHD. But it can be learned with practice and support.

Therapists also work on impulse control. They use games and structured activities. A child might practice waiting for their turn. Or thinking before acting. Or following directions with multiple steps. The therapist gives immediate feedback. They reward progress. These skills practiced in therapy can work at school and home too. Parents and teachers need to support them. Learn more about how to help a child with ADHD succeed in school .

For hyperactivity, behavioral approaches focus on channeling energy the right way. The goal isn't to completely stop movement. A child might learn that they can move around during certain activities. But they need to sit still during others. They might use fidget tools. Or take movement breaks. The goal is helping them match their activity level to the situation.

What Other Therapies Support ADHD Treatment?

Behavioral therapy is the gold standard. But other forms of therapy can add support for some people. These approaches shouldn't replace proven treatments. But they can provide extra help.

Occupational therapy helps some children with ADHD who have sensory issues. Or who have trouble with coordination. An occupational therapist can teach strategies for managing sensory input. They can improve fine motor skills needed for things like handwriting.

Play therapy or other therapies focused on expressing feelings may help some children. These work for kids dealing with stress, trauma , or trouble handling emotions alongside ADHD. These approaches work best combined with behavioral interventions. They shouldn't be used alone.

For families struggling with multiple problems, family therapy can improve communication. It can reduce conflict. When a child with ADHD has siblings, tensions can run high. When parents are stressed by behavior difficulties, family therapy addresses these issues. It's not a treatment for ADHD itself. But it supports the family.

Remember that not all therapies advertised for ADHD have research support. Be careful about approaches that promise quick fixes or cures. Stick with proven treatments. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and parent training. These have research backing them up.

How Do I Find the Right Therapy for My Child or Myself?

Finding quality ADHD treatment starts with proper diagnosis and evaluation by a qualified professional. At Newton Neuropsychology Group, we provide complete ADHD evaluations. We identify ADHD and specific areas where therapy can help.

After evaluation, we can connect you with therapy services for your needs. For children, we offer behavioral therapy. We can train parents in effective techniques to use at home. For adults, our therapy for executive functioning addresses organizational challenges. It helps with time management problems. These are common in adult ADHD.

When seeking medical care and advice for ADHD, look for providers with specific training. They should know proven ADHD treatments. Ask about their approach. It should include behavioral strategies and skills training. Not just talk therapy. For children, ask if they involve parents and teachers in treatment.

Think about whether you need therapy alone or therapy and medication to treat your symptoms well. Many people start with one approach. They add the other if needed. There's no shame in using medication. It's a tool, just like therapy. The right combination is whatever works best for you or your child.

Don't forget to consult the advice of your pediatrician or regular doctor. They can help coordinate care. Your therapist, any doctor prescribing medicine, and other providers all need to communicate. Working together provides the best results.

Key Takeaways: What to Remember About Therapy for ADHD

Behavioral therapy is proven to work for treating ADHD in both children and adults. Major medical organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics support it.

Different approaches work for different ages. Parent training and behavior therapy work great for children. Cognitive behavioral therapy helps adults with ADHD manage work and life.

Combination treatment is often best. Therapy and medication together usually work better than either alone. They address both brain chemistry and learned skills.

Parent involvement is crucial for children. Parent training teaches families behavioral interventions to use at home. This reinforces what children learn in therapy sessions.

Therapy teaches lifelong skills. Unlike medication, which stops working when you stop taking it, therapy provides strategies you can use forever to manage ADHD.

Proven approaches work best. Stick with research-backed treatments like behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and parent training. Avoid unproven alternatives.

Professional evaluation comes first. Proper diagnosis and treatment planning by qualified providers ensures you get appropriate, effective therapy for your specific needs.

Therapy addresses more than symptoms. It improves self-esteem, relationships, and quality of life. It teaches you to work with your ADHD brain rather than against it.

Get Started With ADHD Therapy at Newton Neuropsychology Group

Ready to explore how therapy can help you or your child manage ADHD?

Newton Neuropsychology Group provides complete ADHD evaluations and proven therapy services in Newton, MA.

Our experienced therapists offer:

Behavioral therapy for children with ADHD

Cognitive behavioral therapy for adults

Parent training programs

Executive functioning therapy

Custom treatment plans

Call us at 617-564-1540 or visit our website at therapy services to learn more. We also offer specialized therapy for executive functioning.

Start with an ADHD evaluation to understand your ADHD and create a personalized treatment plan. Contact us today to get started. We're here to help you develop the skills and strategies needed to thrive with ADHD.

Understanding the Different Types of ADHD: Inattentive, Hyperactive, and Combined

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 17:32:03 GMT

Introduction

Not all presentations of ADHD look the same. Some people can't sit still. Others seem quiet and daydreamy. Some struggle to pay attention and sit still. These differences reflect different types of ADHD.

ADHD is the most common neurodevelopmental disorder in children and adults. Knowing which type of ADHD you have helps guide treatment. The three main types of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder are predominantly inattentive type, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type, and combined type ADHD.

This guide explains each type of ADHD clearly. You'll learn how to spot symptoms of each type. You'll understand why knowing your type matters for treatment.

Article Outline

You'll learn about the three official types of ADHD. We'll explain what makes each different. You'll see how ADHD symptoms look in children versus adults. We'll cover why evaluation matters and how to get help.

What Are the Three Main Types of ADHD?

ADHD is categorized into three types based on symptoms. The type of ADHD you have can help determine the best treatment.

Predominantly Inattentive Type: People with this type struggle mainly with attention. They seem distracted or forgetful. This was once called ADD, but that term isn't used anymore.

Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type: This type involves excessive movement and impulsive actions. People fidget constantly or act without thinking.

Combined Type ADHD: This is the most common type. People with combined ADHD show symptoms from both categories, meaning that they struggle with attention and hyperactivity.

Your symptoms of ADHD may evolve over time. For example, a child who struggles with hyperactivity, mayattention problems as they grow.

Predominantly Inattentive Type ADHD: Symptoms and Signs

Inattentive ADHD is often missed, especially in girls. People with predominantly inattentive type don't show obvious hyperactivity. They seem quiet or "spacey."

Common symptoms include:

Trouble paying attention to tasks. You start projects but don't finish them. Reading is hard because your mind wanders. In meetings or classes, you lose track of what's being said.

Problems organizing tasks. Your workspace is messy. You lose items like keys or your phone. Deadlines surprise you. Multi-step tasks feel overwhelming. These are signs of executive functioning challenges that many people with inattentive ADHD face.

Making careless mistakes. You miss important information in emails. Work has errors you didn't notice. You overlook details others catch.

Not listening when spoken to. People say you seem distracted. You ask them to repeat themselves. Your mind drifts even when you try to pay attention.

Getting easily distracted. Background noises pull your focus. Your thoughts interrupt your work. You daydream frequently.

In children versus adults:

Children might seem like they're not trying in school. Teachers say they're "not working up to potential." They forget to turn in homework. They lose school supplies. These school-related problems are often the first sign parents notice.

Adults struggle with organization at work. They underperform despite being smart. Paying bills on time is hard. Managing household tasks is challenging.

Hyperactive-Impulsive Type ADHD: Symptoms and Signs

The hyperactive-impulsive type ADHD is what most people picture with ADHD. This involves excessive movement and acting without thinking.

Symptoms include:

Fidgeting when sitting. You tap your feet, drum your fingers, or shift position constantly. Sitting still feels uncomfortable.

Feeling restless. Even when sitting still, you feel wound up inside. Your mind races. You feel like you always need to do something.

Talking a lot and interrupting. You dominate conversations without meaning to. You finish people's sentences. You interrupt before they're done.

Acting without thinking. You make quick decisions without considering the results. You make impulse purchases. You say things without thinking.

Trouble waiting. Standing in lines frustrates you. You get impatient. You blurt out answers before questions are finished.

Across ages:

Children run around when it's not appropriate. They climb on furniture. They can't play quietly. They talk constantly. They can't stay in their seats. Parents and teachers may notice emotional or behavioral challenges alongside hyperactivity .

Adults feel mentally restless. They might choose active jobs. They may talk a lot in social situations. Impulsivity shows in quick decisions about job changes, relationship changes, or money.

Combined Type ADHD: Both Types Together

Combined-type ADHD is most common. People show symptoms from both the inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive categories.

You might struggle with focus like inattentive type. But you also have hyperactivity and impulsivity. For example, you lose track in conversations (inattentive) and also interrupt people (impulsive).

Why it's diagnosed most often:

Most people have some symptoms from both categories; inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms often occur together. Combined type has become the most commonly diagnosed form.

Children might be disruptive at school (hyperactive) and also struggle academically (inattentive). Adults might struggle with work organization (inattentive) and restlessness at their desks (hyperactive-impulsive).

The "7 Different Types of ADHD" Myth

You might see articles about 7 different types of ADHD. These aren't official. The official diagnostic manual recognizes only three types of ADHD.

Some practitioners talk about different "kinds of ADHD" based on brain imaging. While research is valuable, these aren't standard classifications. The three main types remain the current standard.

Stick with the three types of ADHD. This helps avoid confusion. There is no single test to diagnose ADHD. A mental health professional uses the standard three-subtype system.

How ADHD Types Look Different in Children and Adults

The type of ADHD may look different by age. Understanding this helps recognize ADHD in adults who were missed as children.

Children:

Hyperactivity is obvious. They run, climb, and can't sit still. Inattentive symptoms show as daydreaming or forgetting homework. Impulsivity appears as blurting answers or grabbing toys. If you're wondering whether your child's behavior might be ADHD or something else, learn more about how to tell if your chi ld has depression or anxiety .

Adults:

Hyperactivity becomes internal restlessness. Adults feel mentally restless instead of running around. They might choose active jobs. They talk a lot socially.

Inattention affects work, household management, and relationships. Adults with ADHD struggle with paperwork and deadlines. They lose important items. They forget appointments.

Impulsivity shows in quick decisions about jobs, relationships, or money. They interrupt in conversations. They make comments without thinking.

Why Women and Girls Are Often Missed

Women and girls more often have predominantly inattentive ADHD. This type is less obvious. Teachers and parents might miss it because these girls aren't disruptive.

Girls might be called "ditzy," "spacey," or "not trying." They work extra hard to compensate. The effort makes the ADHD less visible.

Adult women often aren't diagnosed until later. They seek help for anxiety or depression first. Then they discover underlying ADHD is contributing.

Why Your Type Matters for Treatment

Understanding which type of ADHD you have helps create an effective treatment plan.

Medication:

Stimulant medications work for all three types of ADHD. But the specific medication and dose might vary. Your type is one factor doctors consider.

Therapy:

Inattentive type benefits from organizational skills training. Learning systems for time management helps. Therapy for executive functioning combined with medication works well for many people with this type.

Hyperactive-impulsive type benefits from strategies to manage restlessness. This might include behavioral therapy to improve impulse control. Finding outlets for energy helps.

Combined ADHD requires a comprehensive approach. Treatment plans include medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes.

Accommodations:

Someone with inattentive ADHD might need written instructions at work. Someone with hyperactive-impulsive ADHD might benefit from a job allowing movement.

How ADHD Is Diagnosed

There is no single test to diagnose ADHD. Diagnosis requires evaluation by a qualified mental health professional.

The process includes:

Clinical interview about symptoms and history. ADHD symptoms must have been present since childhood. Your neuropsychologist asks how symptoms affect daily life.

Rating scales. You complete standardized ADHD symptom checklists. For children, parents and teachers provide ratings.

Neuropsychological testing to measure attention and impulse control. Testing helps tell ADHD from other conditions.

Review of school or work records. Report cards and performance reviews show long-standing patterns.

Medical evaluation to rule out other causes. Thyroid problems and sleep disorders can cause cognitive symptoms which mimic ADHD.

This comprehensive evaluation determines which subtype you have to help guide treatment.

Treatment Options for Different Types

Effective treatment for ADHD usually involves multiple approaches.

Medication:

Stimulant medications are most common. They can often help with attention and impulse control. Non-stimulant options exist too.

All three types of ADHD often respond to medication. The specific medication and dose vary by person, and it is important to consult with a prescriber to make sure there are no major contraindications to such medications.

Therapy:

Cognitive behavioral therapy helps with organizational skills and time management. This helps inattentive type. Therapy for ADHD teaches evidence-based approaches that actually work.

Behavioral therapy teaches strategies for managing impulsivity and hyperactivity. This benefits hyperactive-impulsive and combined types. Positive reinforcement is one technique therapists use to build better habits.

Lifestyle changes:

Exercise helps manage ADHD symptoms across all types. It's helpful for hyperactivity and restlessness.

Sleep, nutrition, and stress management often positively affect ADHD symptoms. These basics support any treatment plan.

Coaching:

An ADHD coach can help with organizational systems. Parent coaching is especially useful for families with children who have ADHD. For adults, coaching helps with work and life management.

FAQ: Common Questions About Types of ADHD

Can your type change over time?

Yes. Many people's symptoms shift as they age. Hyperactive symptoms often decrease in adulthood. Inattentive symptoms may become more apparent.

Which type is most common?

Combined type ADHD is diagnosed most often. However, this partly reflects that it's easier to identify symptoms from both categories.

Is one type worse than others?

No type is worse. Each creates different challenges. Severity depends on how much symptoms interfere with your life.

Can you have symptoms from all types?

The three types aren't completely separate. Most people have some symptoms from multiple categories. The type reflects which symptoms are most prominent.

Do girls and boys get different types?

Boys are more often diagnosed with hyperactive-impulsive type. Girls more often have inattentive type. However, both can have any type.

Does knowing your type help with treatment?

Yes. Understanding your symptom pattern helps target treatment. It guides medication choices, therapy focus, and accommodation needs.

Summary: Key Points About Types of ADHD

Three official types exist: Inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, and combined type are the only recognized classifications.

Inattentive type involves attention problems like distractibility and forgetfulness. It's often missed, especially in girls.

Hyperactive-impulsive type involves excessive movement and acting without thinking. It's more obvious in children.

Combined type includes symptoms from both and is most commonly diagnosed.

Your type can change as symptoms evolve from childhood through adulthood.

Gender affects diagnosis. Girls more often have inattentive type, which is easier to overlook.

Knowing your type guides treatment. Different types may benefit from different combinations of medication and therapy.

Professional evaluation determines your type. Comprehensive assessment identifies both whether you have ADHD and which type.

Get Professional ADHD Evaluation at Newton Neuropsychology Group

Understanding which type of ADHD you have starts with proper evaluation. At Newton Neuropsychology Group, we provide comprehensive ADHD assessments in Newton, MA.

Our evaluations:

Determine whether ADHD is present
Identify which type you have
Distinguish ADHD from other conditions
Provide treatment recommendations
Create a personalized plan

We also offer neurodevelopmental evaluations for children and neurocognitive evaluations for adults who need comprehensive testing beyond ADHD.

Learn more about what to expect during your evaluation, or visit our resources and FAQ page for answers to common questions.

Ready to learn more?

Call us at 617-564-1540 or visit ADHD Evaluations to schedule your evaluation. You can also reach us through our contact form .

ADHD Symptoms in Adults: Do You Need Testing?

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 20:33:28 GMT

Introduction

Do you struggle to finish projects even when you're motivated? Find yourself constantly late despite your best efforts? Interrupt people in conversations without meaning to? Many adults live with these challenges for years, never realizing they might have ADHD.

ADHD in adults is more common than most people think. It affects roughly 4-5% of adults in the United States. But many adults with ADHD go undiagnosed because their symptoms look different from childhood ADHD. They've developed ways to cope that hide their struggles from others and sometimes even from themselves.

This guide will help you understand what ADHD looks like in adults. You'll learn the common signs and symptoms, how adult ADHD differs from childhood presentation, and when to consider getting tested. If you recognize yourself in these descriptions, professional evaluation can provide answers and open doors to effective treatment.

Article Outline

In this guide, you'll learn what ADHD in adults looks like and how symptoms show up in daily life. We'll cover the three main types of ADHD, how symptoms differ between men and women, and when testing makes sense. You'll also learn how ADHD is diagnosed and what treatment options are available.

What Is ADHD in Adults?

ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It's a mental health condition that affects how your brain manages attention, impulse control, and activity levels. ADHD starts in childhood, but many people don't get diagnosed until adulthood.

Adults with ADHD often struggle with tasks that require sustained attention, organization, and planning. These aren't character flaws or lack of effort. ADHD affects brain function in specific ways that make these tasks genuinely harder.

The condition doesn't go away as you get older, but symptoms can change over time. The hyperactivity that was obvious in childhood often becomes internal restlessness in adults. The difficulty focusing that got you in trouble at school now affects work performance and relationships.

Many adults have learned to cope with their symptoms through workarounds and strategies. You might rely heavily on calendars and reminders. You might avoid jobs that require lots of paperwork. These coping mechanisms can help you function, but they don't address the underlying challenges.

Common ADHD Symptoms in Adults

ADHD symptoms fall into three main categories: inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Most adults with ADHD experience symptoms from multiple categories.

Inattention Symptoms:

Difficulty sustaining attention on tasks, especially boring or repetitive ones. You might start many projects but struggle to finish them. Reading might be hard because your mind wanders after a few paragraphs.

Trouble staying organized with daily tasks and responsibilities. Your desk is cluttered. You lose important items like keys or your phone regularly. Bills get paid late even when you have the money.

Problems with time management and meeting deadlines. You underestimate how long tasks will take. You're often running late even when you leave "plenty of time." Deadlines sneak up on you.

Difficulty following through on instructions or finishing work tasks. You might forget steps in multi-step processes. Starting tasks feels harder than it should.

Hyperactivity Symptoms:

Restlessness or feeling like you need to stay busy. Sitting still in meetings feels uncomfortable. You fidget with pens, bounce your leg, or tap your fingers without realizing it.

Difficulty relaxing or constantly feeling "on the go." Your mind races even when you're trying to rest. You might describe yourself as always needing to do something.

Talking excessively in social situations. You might dominate conversations without meaning to. Friends or family might comment that you talk a lot.

Impulsivity Symptoms:

Making decisions quickly without thinking through consequences. You might make impulse purchases you later regret. Career or relationship decisions happen fast without enough consideration.

Interrupting others in conversation. You finish people's sentences or jump in before they're done talking. You might not even realize you're doing it.

Difficulty waiting your turn. Standing in lines feels frustrating. You might get impatient when others are talking or making decisions.

How Adult ADHD Differs From Childhood ADHD

ADHD symptoms can change as you move from childhood into adulthood. Understanding these differences helps explain why many adults don't recognize their own ADHD.

Hyperactivity looks different: Children with ADHD might run around constantly or climb on furniture. Adults with ADHD feel internal restlessness. You might feel like your mind is always racing. The physical hyperactivity becomes mental hyperactivity.

Coping strategies mask symptoms: By adulthood, you've learned ways to manage that kids haven't. You might avoid situations that are hard for you. You use technology heavily to compensate for memory and organization challenges. These workarounds help you function but don't make the ADHD go away.

Life demands are different: School has structure and frequent deadlines. Adult life requires self-directed organization. Managing a household, career, and relationships all at once can overwhelm executive function abilities.

Symptoms may become clearer: Some people's symptoms become more obvious as life gets more complex. Marriage, children, or job promotions might reveal struggles that weren't as apparent before.

Types of ADHD and How They Present in Adults

ADHD has three main types based on which symptoms are most prominent.

Predominantly Inattentive Type:

This type is often missed in adults, especially women. You might seem quiet or dreamy rather than hyperactive. Your struggles with focus and organization might be blamed on being "scattered" or "not trying hard enough."

Common experiences include difficulty paying attention to details, making careless mistakes at work, losing important items frequently, and struggling to follow through on tasks.

Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type:

This type is less common in adults. You might feel constantly restless, talk a lot, interrupt others, and make quick decisions without thinking them through.

People with this type often struggle with relationships because impulsivity can create conflict. Work environments that require sitting still and quiet focus are particularly challenging.

Combined Type:

This is the most common type. You experience symptoms from both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity categories. Your specific mix of symptoms might shift over time.

ADHD in Adult Women: Why It's Often Missed

Women with ADHD are frequently diagnosed later than men because their symptoms can look different.

Inattention over hyperactivity: Adult women often have predominantly inattentive type ADHD. They might seem quiet, disorganized, or forgetful rather than hyperactive. Teachers and parents often miss this in childhood.

Internalized symptoms: Women may internalize their struggles more than men. Instead of acting out, they might feel anxious or depressed about their difficulties. The emotional toll is huge but hidden.

High masking: Many women develop elaborate systems to appear organized. They work extra hard to compensate. This takes enormous energy but hides the ADHD from others and sometimes from themselves.

Hormonal changes affect symptoms: ADHD symptoms can change with menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause. These fluctuations can make patterns harder to identify.

How ADHD Impacts Daily Life for Adults

ADHD affects many areas of adult life, often in ways people don't connect to the condition.

Work challenges: Missing deadlines, forgetting meetings, struggling with paperwork, difficulty prioritizing tasks, and problems with long-term projects are common. You might job-hop frequently or underperform relative to your intelligence and education.

Relationship struggles: Forgetting important dates, not listening fully in conversations, impulsive comments that hurt feelings, and difficulty with household management strain relationships. Partners might feel like they have to "parent" you.

Financial problems: Impulsive spending, late bill payments, difficulty saving money, and disorganized financial records create stress. You might earn good money but struggle to manage it.

Time management issues: Chronic lateness, underestimating how long tasks take, and struggling with schedules affect both work and personal life.

Emotional regulation difficulties: Many adults with ADHD struggle with mood swings, low frustration tolerance, and quick anger that fades just as fast.

When Should You Consider ADHD Testing?

Consider professional evaluation if several of these apply:

Your symptoms are persistent: These aren't occasional bad days. The struggles happen consistently across different situations and have been present for years, often since childhood.

Symptoms impact multiple life areas: Work, relationships, home management, and personal goals all show the same patterns of difficulty with attention, organization, or impulse control.

You've tried to improve without success: Self-help strategies, organizational apps, and good intentions haven't solved the problems long-term.

Others have suggested ADHD: Friends, family, or healthcare providers have mentioned you might have ADHD. Sometimes others see patterns we don't notice ourselves.

You have family history: ADHD runs in families. If parents or siblings have ADHD, your likelihood increases.

Other explanations don't fit: You've ruled out other health conditions that could cause similar symptoms. Sleep problems, thyroid issues, and other factors can mimic ADHD.

How ADHD Is Diagnosed in Adults

Getting an accurate ADHD diagnosis requires comprehensive evaluation by a mental health professional. At Newton Neuropsychology Group, the process typically includes:

Clinical interview: Your neuropsychologist will ask detailed questions about your current symptoms, childhood history, and how symptoms affect your daily life. ADHD starts in childhood, so understanding your early experiences is important.

Rating scales: You'll complete standardized questionnaires about ADHD symptoms. Often, someone who knows you well (spouse, parent) also completes ratings to provide another perspective.

Comprehensive testing : Neuropsychological testing measures attention, executive function, memory, and other cognitive abilities. This helps identify ADHD and rule out other conditions with similar symptoms.

Review of history: The evaluator will look at report cards, performance reviews, or other documentation showing long-standing patterns.

Rule out other conditions: Depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, and other health conditions can cause ADHD-like symptoms. A thorough evaluation distinguishes between these possibilities.

The evaluation typically takes 3-4 hours for adults at Newton Neuropsychology Group. You'll receive a detailed report explaining findings and specific recommendations.

Treatment Options for Adult ADHD

Effective treatment for ADHD often combines multiple approaches.

Medication: Stimulant medications help many adults with ADHD improve focus and reduce impulsivity. Non-stimulant options also exist. A psychiatrist or primary care doctor can discuss medication options with you.

Therapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy helps you develop strategies for organization, time management, and emotional regulation. Therapy addresses the practical challenges ADHD creates.

Coaching: ADHD coaches help you implement systems and accountability for work and personal goals.

Lifestyle changes: Regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management all help reduce ADHD symptoms. These aren't cures, but they support overall functioning.

Workplace accommodations: Once diagnosed, you may be eligible for accommodations at work that make tasks more manageable.

Skills training: Learning specific organizational systems, time management techniques, and communication strategies provides practical tools.

Why Professional Evaluation Matters

You might wonder if self-diagnosis or online tests are enough. Professional evaluation provides benefits that online quizzes can't:

Accurate diagnosis: Many conditions look like ADHD. A qualified mental health professional can diagnose ADHD and distinguish it from anxiety, depression, learning disorders, or other issues.

Personalized treatment plan: Understanding your specific pattern of strengths and challenges allows for targeted recommendations.

Access to treatment: Official diagnosis is required for medication, workplace accommodations, and insurance coverage of treatment.

Peace of mind: Knowing what you're dealing with reduces uncertainty and self-blame. Many people feel relief finally understanding their struggles.

FAQ: Common Questions About Adult ADHD

Can adults develop ADHD, or does it start in childhood?

ADHD starts in childhood, though many people aren't diagnosed until adulthood. If symptoms only appeared in adulthood, another condition might better explain the difficulties. A thorough evaluation can clarify this.

Do ADHD symptoms get worse with age?

Symptoms can change over time but don't necessarily worsen. Some people find symptoms become more manageable as they learn coping strategies. Others find adult responsibilities reveal challenges that weren't obvious before.

Can you have mild ADHD?

Yes. ADHD symptoms range from mild to severe. Mild ADHD still causes noticeable challenges but might not disrupt life as dramatically as severe ADHD.

Is ADHD more common in men or women?

ADHD affects both genders, but historically more men were diagnosed. Many women have ADHD that was missed in childhood because symptoms can present differently in females.

Can ADHD be treated without medication?

Some adults manage ADHD effectively with therapy, coaching, and lifestyle changes alone. Others find medication essential. The best approach depends on symptom severity and individual response to treatment.

How is adult ADHD different from just being disorganized?

Everyone struggles with organization occasionally. ADHD involves persistent, long-standing difficulties across multiple life areas that cause significant problems despite efforts to improve. The struggles are more severe and consistent than typical disorganization.

Will I need to take ADHD medication forever?

Treatment needs vary by person. Some adults take medication long-term. Others use it during particularly demanding periods. Work with your doctor to find what's right for you.

Can ADHD affect my career success?

Untreated ADHD can impact work performance. However, with proper treatment and strategies, many adults with ADHD have successful careers. Some ADHD traits, like creativity and energy, can be professional assets.

Summary & Next Steps

ADHD in adults creates real challenges with attention, organization, and impulse control. These aren't character flaws or lack of effort. They're symptoms of a treatable mental health condition.

If you recognize yourself in these descriptions, professional evaluation can provide clarity. Understanding whether you have ADHD opens doors to effective treatment and strategies that actually work.

At Newton Neuropsychology Group, we provide comprehensive ADHD evaluations for adults in Newton, MA and throughout the Greater Boston area. Our neuropsychological testing identifies ADHD and distinguishes it from other conditions. You'll receive a detailed report with specific recommendations for treatment and support.

Don't let years pass wondering if ADHD explains your struggles. Testing provides answers that can change your life.

Ready to learn more?

Call Newton Neuropsychology Group at 617-564-1540 or visit our ADHD Evaluations page at www.newtonneuro.com/adhd-evaluations-newton-ma to schedule your evaluation. We're here to help you understand your brain and find strategies that work.

The Real Cost of Neuropsychological Testing: What to Budget For in Newton, MA

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 22:05:07 GMT

If you're thinking about getting tested for learning problems, ADHD, memory concerns, or brain injuries, you probably want to know: "How much will this cost?" This is a smart question. Money matters when planning for healthcare.

Testing costs vary a lot. Different practices charge different amounts. Insurance coverage can be confusing. At Newton Neuro Psychology Group, we believe in being clear about costs from the start. We want you to know what to expect before you commit.

This guide explains everything about the cost of neuropsychological testing. You'll learn what testing typically costs, what affects the price, how insurance works, and how to make testing more affordable. Our goal is to remove confusion around pricing. When you know the facts, you can make better choices.

Outline

In this guide, you'll learn what testing costs in Newton, MA. We'll cover how insurance coverage works with different plans. You'll find out what factors change the price. We'll also share tips for managing costs and getting good value.

What Is Neuropsychological Testing and Why Does It Cost Money?

A neuropsychological evaluation tests how your brain works. It looks at memory, attention, language, problem-solving, and thinking skills. This isn't a quick check-up. It's a deep look at brain function.

The process includes several parts. First, you have an intake session to discuss your concerns. Then comes the actual testing, which takes several hours. After that, your clinician scores all the tests and writes a detailed report. Finally, you meet again to discuss findings.

At Newton Neuro Psychology Group, adults usually need 3-4 hours of testing. Children typically need 5-6 hours. But that's just testing time. The neuropsychologist also spends hours reviewing results, comparing them to normative samples, talking to collaterals like teachers, family members, and therapists, and writing your report. All this professional time is included.

The testing gives you specific answers. You'll know if you have ADHD, learning disorders, or other conditions. You'll get a plan for next steps. This detailed information helps you move forward with the right support.

What Does Testing Cost at Newton Neuro?

At Newton Neuro Psychology Group, we share clear pricing upfront. Here's what our services cost out of pocket as of January 2025:

For school-aged children: $4,900
For preschoolers and adults (without academic testing): $3,100
For preschoolers and adults (with academic testing): $4,900
Academic testing alone: $1,800

These prices cover the full process. That includes your intake session, all testing, the written report, and your feedback meeting. You won't get surprise bills for extra parts.

The price depends on what kind of assessment you need. Children usually need more testing than adults. If you need academic testing (reading, writing, math), that adds to the total cost. Your provider will tell you which option fits during the intake call.

What Affects Testing Costs?

Several factors influencing the price help explain why costs vary.

Where you live: Testing in Newton and Greater Boston costs more than in other areas. This region has higher costs for office space, staff, and general living expenses. These costs are built into what practices bill.

Who does your testing: Specialists have training beyond a regular psychology degree. Their expertise is part of what you're paying for. At Newton Neuro, all tests are done by licensed, experienced clinicians.

Academic testing needs: If you need testing for reading, writing, or math skills, this adds $1,800. This type of testing isn't covered by insurance because it's for school planning, not medical diagnosis. Typically, academic testing is strongly recommended for school-aged children, as it lets us see how something like anxiety or inattention may impact school performance. This allows us to make much stronger recommendations to the school.

How Insurance Works for Cognitive Testing

Insurance companies can help cover costs. But coverage varies between different insurance plans. Here's what you need to know.

Blue Cross Blue Shield coverage: This is important news. Newton Neuro Psychology Group is in-network with all Blue Cross Blue Shield plans. If you have BCBS, your out-of-pocket expenses will be much lower. You'll pay your regular copay, coinsurance, and/or deductible instead of the full price. This is a big advantage.

Medicare coverage: Some of our providers accept Medicare. Medicare typically covers testing when medically necessary. Ask when you call if Medicare is accepted by the specific clinician you'd work with.

Medical necessity: Insurance only pays when testing is medically necessary. This means the testing helps diagnose or treat a medical or mental health condition. Testing for school planning or personal interest usually isn't covered. Your clinician can tell you if your situation likely meets this requirement.

Other insurance plans: If you have insurance besides BCBS or Medicare, you might still get money back. Many plans have benefits for seeing providers outside their network. We can give you a superbill (detailed receipt) to submit. You may receive partial reimbursement. Call your insurer to ask about these benefits before scheduling.

Pre-authorization: Some plans require approval before testing. This is called pre-authorization. The insurance company reviews the request first. If they approve, they'll cover the costs (minus your copay or deductible). If you skip this step, insurance might deny your claim. Our office will check to see if your plan requires preauthorization, but it is always a good idea for you to check if your insurance needs this.

Understanding What You'll Pay Out of Pocket

Even with insurance, you might have some costs to pay yourself. Here's what to expect. We can provide you with an estimate if you are unsure about your coverage.

Deductibles: This is the amount you pay before insurance kicks in. If your deductible is $2,000 and you haven't met it, you'll pay more yourself. Once you meet your deductible, insurance starts covering more.

Copays and coinsurance: After your deductible, you might have a copay (flat fee) or coinsurance (percentage). For example, 20% coinsurance on a $4,500 bill means you'd pay $900 and insurance covers $3,600.

Academic testing is never covered: Remember, the $1,800 academic testing add-on is not covered by any insurance. You'll pay this yourself if needed. This is true for all plans. You can discuss with your clinician at the intake session if academic testing is recommended.

Private pay options: Some people pay the full amount themselves. Maybe they don't have insurance. Maybe their plan doesn't cover testing. Or maybe they prefer not to use insurance for privacy. At Newton Neuro, we accept major credit cards and HSA or FSA cards.

Payment timing: For insurance-based services, you're billed partially after your testing and partially after your feedback session. For private pay, payment is due at the time of testing. This helps you plan when funds are needed.

Questions to Ask Before Scheduling

Being smart about questions helps prevent surprise bills. Here's what to ask Newton Neuro or any practice:

What will my specific testing cost? Get a clear estimate based on your situation. Ask if there could be extra costs.

Are you in my insurance network? For Newton Neuro, if you have Blue Cross Blue Shield, the answer is yes. For other insurance, ask about coverage.

What does the price include? Make sure it covers intake, testing, the report, and feedback. Some places charge separately for different parts.

How much will I owe? If you have insurance, ask what your copay or coinsurance will be. Factor in your deductible too.

Do you need pre-authorization from my insurance? Find out before scheduling so you can get approval if needed.

Can I use my HSA or FSA card? Newton Neuro accepts these, which helps since you're using pre-tax money.

How Newton Neuro Makes Pricing Clear

At Newton Neuro Psychology Group, we don't hide costs. We tell you what to expect from the first phone call.

When you contact us, we'll discuss what assessment you need. We'll give you the exact price. We explain what's included so there are no surprises. Our team helps you understand your insurance benefits. We verify coverage before you commit.

We're in-network with all Blue Cross Blue Shield plans. This is a major benefit for BCBS members. Your costs will be significantly lower than going elsewhere. Some of our providers also take Medicare.

For private pay clients, we share the full price upfront. You'll know exactly what to budget. We accept payment by credit card or HSA/FSA cards to make payment easier.

Options If Cost Is a Concern

If the price feels high, there are strategies to make it more manageable.

Ask about graduate student clinicians: Newton Neuro sometimes offers sliding scale fees for testing with graduate student clinicians. These are doctoral students in training. They work under close supervision by our licensed neuropsychologists. The supervisor reviews all testing and reports. This option can lower your costs significantly. Quality remains high because experienced clinicians oversee everything. Availability varies, so ask when you call if this might work for you.

Use your network benefits: If you have Blue Cross Blue Shield, definitely choose Newton Neuro. Being in-network saves you significant money.

Check your HSA or FSA: If you have a Health Savings Account or Flexible Spending Account through work, you can use those funds. This is pre-tax money, which effectively reduces your total cost.

Look for community options: Some community health centers offer lower-cost testing. Wait times might be longer, but costs can be much lower.

Ask about university clinics: Some universities have training clinics where doctoral students do testing under supervision. Costs are usually lower. Quality is still good because experienced supervisors oversee everything.

Plan around your deductible: If you have a high deductible, you might schedule testing when you've already met it. For example, if you've had other medical expenses this year, testing later might cost you less.

Consider the long-term value: Testing might seem expensive now. But accurate diagnosis can save money over time. You'll get the right help instead of trying things that don't work. For children, proper diagnosis unlocks school support. For adults, it guides effective treatment.

Special Options at Newton Neuro

Newton Neuro Psychology Group offers unique features that add value.

Fast-track options: For young children (ages 0-4), early diagnosis is critical. Newton Neuro offers fast-track neurodevelopmental services. These move through the process in weeks, not months. We can even do intake and testing on the same day when appropriate. This helps children access early intervention during important developmental stages.

Flexible session formats: Your intake session is done virtually, which is convenient. Testing happens in person at our Newton Centre office. Feedback sessions are virtual too. This saves you travel time while ensuring testing quality.

Therapy integration: If testing shows you need therapy, Newton Neuro offers that too. Your therapist already knows your results. Treatment builds directly on what was learned.

What You Get for Your Investment

When you pay for testing, you're getting much more than test scores. Here's what's included:

A detailed intake interview to understand your history and concerns. Several hours of carefully chosen tests measuring different brain functions. Expert interpretation that goes beyond numbers to understand what results mean. A comprehensive written report explaining findings in clear language. A feedback session where your provider answers all questions. Specific recommendations for next steps, whether that's psychotherapy, school accommodations, medication consultation, or other support.

You also get peace of mind. Many people feel relief finally understanding why certain tasks are difficult. Parents often say testing explains struggles they've worried about for years. Accurate diagnosis opens doors to the right support.

Is Testing Worth the Investment?

This is a personal question only you can answer. But consider what you gain.

Testing provides clarity. You'll know what conditions you have (or don't have). You'll understand your brain's strengths and weaknesses. For children, this can unlock school services and accommodations. For adults, it guides treatment choices and workplace support.

Without testing, you might spend years trying interventions that don't help. You might wonder why things that work for others don't work for you. The cost of not knowing can be high. Lost educational opportunities. Job struggles. Relationship problems. Effective help that never starts.

When you view testing as investing in your future, the value becomes clearer. You're investing in answers, direction, and appropriate support. For many people, that's worth the financial cost.

FAQ: Common Questions About Testing Costs

How much does testing cost at Newton Neuro?

For school-aged children, the cost is $4,900. For preschoolers and adults without academic testing, it's $3,100. If academic testing is included for preschoolers or adults, the price is $4,900. Academic testing alone costs $1,800.

Does insurance cover testing?

Many insurance plans cover it when medically necessary. Newton Neuro is in-network with all Blue Cross Blue Shield plans, meaning lower costs for BCBS members. Some providers accept Medicare. Other insurance might provide partial payment.

What's the benefit of Newton Neuro being in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield?

Being in-network means you pay much less. Instead of paying the full $4,900 for a child's assessment, you'd pay your regular copay or coinsurance. This could save you thousands of dollars.

Is academic testing covered by insurance?

No. Academic testing costs $1,800 and is never covered. This is true for all plans. It's for educational planning, not medical diagnosis, so insurance doesn't pay for it.

How long does testing take?

Adults typically need 3-4 hours. Children usually need 5-6 hours. This doesn't include the intake session or feedback session, which are separate appointments.

When do I have to pay?

For insurance-based services, you're billed partially after the feedback session. For private pay, payment is due at the time of service.

Can I use my HSA or FSA card?

Yes. Newton Neuro accepts HSA and FSA cards. This lets you use pre-tax dollars.

Does Medicare cover testing?

Medicare typically covers it when medically necessary. Some providers at Newton Neuro accept Medicare. Ask when you call which clinicians work with Medicare.

What if my insurance denies coverage?

If denied, you have options. You can appeal with documentation from your doctor. You can pay privately and submit for reimbursement. Or you can look into lower-cost community options. Please let us know if payment is a hardship, and we will try to help you.

Summary & Next Steps

Understanding costs helps you plan and make informed decisions. At Newton Neuro Psychology Group, we believe in clear, upfront pricing with no hidden fees.

Our services range from $3,100 to $4,900 depending on what you need. If you have Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance, you'll pay much less because we're in-network with all BCBS plans. Some of our providers also accept Medicare.

Testing gives you answers, diagnosis, and a clear plan forward. Whether you're concerned about ADHD, learning problems, memory issues, or brain injuries, testing provides the clarity you need.

Don't let cost questions stop you from getting answers. Contact Newton Neuro Psychology Group today to discuss your needs and learn about your specific costs. Our experienced team is here to help you understand both the clinical and financial parts of the process.

Ready to take the next step? Call Newton Neuro Psychology Group at 617-564-1540 or visit our Contact & Fees page at www.newtonneuro.com/contact-fees to schedule your intake session. We're located in Newton Centre, MA, and serve families throughout the Greater Boston area. Let's work together to get you the support you need.

The Pandemic and Executive Functioning

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 02:05:55 GMT

Like most areas of mental health, neuropsychologists seem to have experienced an uptick in the number of people seeking services in the last year.

I think one of the reasons is that the pandemic and related issues have stressed our executive functions. Executive functions are higher order functions that are generally associated with the frontal lobe of the brain, an area that continues to develop well into our 20’s. Executive functioning includes planning and organizing, task initiation, task completion, working memory, and inhibiting impulses. In short, executive functioning skills underlie our ability to achieve at work and at school.

There seem to be two main ways that the pandemic has affected executive functioning. First of all, the pandemic has globally increased stress and anxiety. When we feel stressed, our executive functioning breaks down. Think of a time that you felt extremely anxious and overwhelmed. I bet everyday tasks seemed daunting and overwhelming. One example I like to share with patients is my personal experience at the beginning of the pandemic. Prior to March 2020, when I left my house, I had a list of essentials items that I would repeat to myself, “Keys, wallet, phone.” This is my executive functioning skills ensuring that I did not forget these essential items. All of a sudden, this list evolved into, “Keys, wallet, phone, Clorox wipes, mask, hand sanitizer.”

The very act of needing to wear a mask and having Clorox wipes in my car increased my level of anxiety. I was so focused on needing these new items that there were many times in April and May 2020 that I left my house with Clorox wipes and a mask but without my keys or phone.

Secondly, without much warning, the pandemic shifted the way that we worked and attended school.

The physical setting of a workplace or school adds structure that supports our executive functioning.

For example, there are built in times in high schoolers’ days to go to their locker and switch out materials for class. An elementary student who spaced out when directions were given and is now unclear about what materials are needed for a science project, can look around the classroom and see what his neighbors are doing.

Your workday had more structure to it, with physical meeting times, and maybe even a scheduled lunch break. Suddenly, these external structures were no longer in place. Even some of the strategies we used independently were no long relevant or helpful. Without these strategies and structure, many people who have inherent executive functioning difficulties have really struggled.

In short, the pandemic has shed light on difficulties that people were previously able to manage independently. A neuropsychological evaluation can help pinpoint and quantify these difficulties, identify the etiology of these struggles (something like anxiety versus ADHD), and identify recommendations to help you or your child.

This will be particularly important as we return to a modified version of in-person learning or work.

Private neuropsychological evaluation v. special education evaluation

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 02:03:38 GMT

A frequently asked question that I get is to explain the difference between a private neuropsychological evaluation and a school evaluation. There are several differences, including expertise of evaluators and diagnostic considerations. Both types of evaluations can be instrumental in ensuring that your child gets the accommodations and support necessary to meet his or her individual needs.

School evaluations are conducted by the special education department of your school district and are generally completed once a parent requests a full evaluation. A school evaluation has many parts, based on the presenting issue.

The parts vary by school district, but generally a school psychologist will conduct a psychological portion, a special educator will conduct the educational portion, a speech and language pathologist will conduct a speech and language evaluation (if applicable), an occupational therapist will conduct an occupational therapy evaluation (if applicable), and a physical therapist will conduct a physical therapy evaluation (if applicable).

Other types of evaluations may also be completed by different specialists, such as a home evaluation or functional behavioral analysis. Each evaluator has specialized training in his or her specific field. The purpose of the school evaluation is to identify any issues that impact the student’s ability to access school curricula.

“Again, this varies district to district, but most districts in Massachusetts will not provide an emotional or neuropsychological diagnosis, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, or autism. A school evaluation may be sufficient if the presenting issue is primarily academic or specific to one of these specialized areas (speech, occupational therapy, physical therapy).”

The pitfall of school evaluations

One pitfall of school evaluations is that typically if a child scores in the Average range on a given measure, he/she is seen as able to access the curricula, and often does not qualify for services.

A private neuropsychological evaluation will consist of one evaluator who looks at most areas a school evaluation will look at. A neuropsychologist will also be able to look more in depth at certain areas and be able to tailor the evaluation to your child’s needs. A neuropsychologist will provide a diagnosis (if relevant), which may help make a case for school accommodations.

Additionally, neuropsychologists will make specific recommendations to support a child’s functioning outside of school.

If you are concerned that your child may have a diagnosis, such as ADHD, autism, or an emotional disorder, a private evaluation will give you the most information.

Positive reinforcement

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 02:00:25 GMT

Probably the most frequently asked question when I was doing family therapy was, “How do I make my kid STOP doing something.”

Research shows that positive reinforcement is the best way to make lasting behavior changes, not punishment. This means that you need to rethink things and concentrate on the behavior you want to increase, not the behavior that you need to stop.

For example, a few weeks before quarantine started, my daughter started being mean to my son (hitting, grabbing toys, etc.). Instead of working on STOPPING that behavior, we worked on increasing the number of times that she was kind to him (although dangerous behaviors like hitting were addressed with a time out).

To do this we used the positive behavior jar technique. She earned a jelly bean in a jar every time we saw her doing something kind to her brother, with the promise of a present when the jar was full. It could be sharing, giving him a hug, anything.

Soon enough, she started looking for ways to earn jelly beans and their relationship shifted. Gradually, we phased out the jelly beans but she was still nice to him.

“Why does this work? You are reinforcing the behavior you want to increase in two ways. First, you are giving external rewards with the jelly bean and with your praise. Eventually, most children also develop an intrinsic sense of accomplishment, first for earning the reward, and eventually for mastering something.”

Once that is fully developed you can remove the external reward. It also works because it changes your mindset. Instead of looking for negative behaviors you watch for positive ones.

it’s not bribery, it’s positive reinforcement.

The biggest roadblock I see is the parent’s reluctance. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard, “I don’t want to bribe my child.” Remember, it’s not bribery, it’s positive reinforcement. Ok, it’s a little bit of bribery but we all do this all the time. Did you wait to relax after bedtime until the kitchen was clean? Or did you hold off on buying that new gadget until you completed that big project at work? You are positively reinforcing yourself!

When introducing any new plan like this to your child, it is so important that you are excited about it. It’s so important that I will say it again. Be enthusiastic when you introduce it! Make them feel that this is something special that they GET to do. Better yet, create some buy in by getting the child to help by decorating the jar or chart, and identifying special rewards.

How can I help a child with ADHD succeed in school?

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 01:57:59 GMT

5 ultimate tips for helping your child with ADHD succeed both at school and at home.

Trouble paying attention, easily distracted, acting impulsively. We, as a society, commonly think of these as negative characteristics that lead to failure at school; yet, they are also attributes of many children with ADHD. ADHD (attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders of childhood. In fact, around 6.1 million children in the US were diagnosed with ADHD in 2016. So, are we saying that 6.1 million children in the US are doomed to fail at school? No, of course not!

Now I’m not denying that there are special challenges that children with ADHD will face at school. Research does suggest that children with ADHD are more likely to need tutoring and receive lower test marks. Therefore, as a parent or teacher of a child with ADHD, their performance at school is definitely a reasonable concern.

First things first, it is most important to remember that helping children with ADHD is not about getting them to try harder. While it may be tempting, it’s actually quite counter-productive to push them to try harder to concentrate or stop getting distracted. Rather, it is about providing them with a supportive environment and appropriate accommodations for them to succeed. So, here are a few steps you (as a parent or teacher) can take to help accomplish this.

1. Get a proper diagnosis

This might seem obvious to some, but it’s a step that is sometimes overlooked. Lack of treatment is a major consequence of not receiving a diagnosis. Behavior therapy provided by specialists or medication can be extremely helpful and is only possible with an ADHD diagnosis. In order to be diagnosed, one must be evaluated by a medical professional at a neuropsychological testing center, much like our very own Newton Neuropsychology Group. A medical professional will not only be able provide you with an accurate diagnosis, but also provide any medications or suggestions for cognitive-behavioral therapy .

2. Work as a team

Parents, the school administration, and teachers are all essential components in creating a supportive environment for the child. Parents are vital in providing information about their child’s needs and goals to the school. This is fundamental in ensuring that all important adults in the child’s life have context and information. In turn, the school may be able to place the child with teachers that fit their learning style. Teachers can also adjust their help by minimizing distractions in the classroom. Some examples include seating them at the front of the classroom, away from windows and doors. Teachers can also observe specific behaviors in the classroom that they can communicate with the parents.

"Helping children with ADHD is not about getting them to try harder...it is about providing them with a supportive environment and appropriate accommodations for them to succeed."

3. Create structure

Establish rules and routines both in the classroom at home, keeping each day consistent and predictable. Structure is beneficial for all children, but especially for children with ADHD. A symptom of ADHD is lack of self-control, and these routines can help with managing their symptoms. Set aside a specific time for homework, chores, and even playtime. This can act as a stepping stone for the child to build skills and learn time management both at home and at school. Additionally, get organized! Break down assignments into small chunks, and work in a space with minimal distractions.

Create opportunities to learn topics firsthand. Even children without ADHD will have trouble concentrating if lessons are based on sitting still and staring at a whiteboard for hours on end. Put on plays, sing, build models, get up and dance! There are endless possibilities to how we can use our bodies to learn. A physical/kinesthetic learning style is very common in children with ADHD, meaning they prefer to use their hands and sense of touch to learn.

4. Encourage hands-on learning

5. Educate yourself

Honestly, the fact that you’re reading this blog post right now is a pretty good indicator that you are already making great progress on this step. It could be a scary and anxiety-inducing thing to be raising or teaching a child with ADHD, especially if it’s your first time. Take the time to learn about ADHD, treatment options, and other people’s experiences. The more you know, the better equipped you will be at dealing with any situation that comes at you.

Hopefully, this list was able to help you in some way, even if it was just reinforcing some ideas you already had. A combination of school support, home support, and behavior therapy and medication will be the most effective strategy. And remember, school (and life) isn’t only about academics. It’s also a place for social and emotional development and experiences. If your child isn’t as academically successful as you hoped, be sure not to overlook their possible social/emotional strengths, and vice versa. Please leave a comment below to share your experiences with ADHD and any other tips you may have!

Does my child have depression or anxiety?

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 01:49:55 GMT

“Why are you feeling anxious? You’re just a kid, you have no real problems to deal with!” I, along with many of my friends, remember constantly hearing this from adults when we were teenagers.

I remember feeling as if I couldn’t feel worried or scared because I hadn’t earned the right to feel that way. As if there was some magical age where it would suddenly be okay to be anxious. I’m sure I wasn’t the only teenager to feel this way. While I personally was not diagnosed with depression or anxiety, depression and anxiety are among the most common mental health disorders in children and adolescents. It’s important to remember that depression and anxiety can affect people of any age.

Just like adults, it’s normal for children to have fears and worries. But when those fears and worries become prolonged or extreme, they could be due to depression or anxiety.

Signs of depression

Depression is more than just feeling sad or having a bad day. It's a serious condition that can affect one’s sleep, appetite, and energy levels. In children and adolescents, depression can also impact schoolwork, social life, and relationships with friends and family members.

Depression in children and adolescents may not always look the same as it does in adults because they have different needs at this stage of development. For example:

Some will show signs of sadness or irritability when they're depressed—but others might withdraw from friends and family members instead of expressing their feelings outwardly (like crying or yelling).

A child or adolescent with depression may have abnormal sleeping habits—either sleeping too much or not getting enough sleep. This may result in difficulty paying attention at school or being unable to complete homework.
Showing signs of self-injury or conducting self-destructive behaviors.
Some may cause trouble, causing others to label them as lazy or a troublemaker without recognizing it as a sign of depression.
Others may withdraw from others, making it difficult to notice that they are feeling depressed.

Signs of anxiety

Just like with depression, the signs and symptoms of anxiety can vary depending on one’s age and stage of development. Some signs may be:

Being fearful or worried about what may happen. This can include worrying about developing a serious illness or injury, being separated from parents or loved ones, performing poorly in school, disappointing others or oneself, and many other things.
Excessive shyness around unfamiliar people or situations (such as a new playdate).
Avoidance of specific situations that cause anxiety (for example, riding in elevators because it makes your child feel trapped).
Again, just like depression, anxiety can affect one’s sleep as they could be kept awake at night.

Depression in children and adolescents may not always look the same as it does in adults because they have different needs at this stage of development.

Diagnosis

Depression is typically diagnosed when symptoms last for 2 weeks or longer. The best way is to talk to your doctor or another qualified health professional. They can make a diagnosis and give advice about treatment options, which will be essential in learning to navigate this difficult situation.

Treatment

Depression and anxiety in children and adolescents can be treated with psychotherapy, medication and other interventions.

Psychotherapy: Psychotherapies for depression include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for younger children, family therapy for younger and older children, and play therapy with older children.
Medication: SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) are commonly used to treat depression and anxiety disorders
Changing behaviors: While changing behaviors may not completely treat depression and anxiety, it can help manage symptoms. Practicing mindfulness, doing physical activity, and getting a healthy amount of sleep each night are all helpful behaviors.

How can I help?

As a parent, you can help your child by:

Encouraging them to find ways to deal with their emotions. For instance, if they feel like crying, encourage them to have a good cry (if appropriate). You could also suggest some activities that might make them feel better—for example, spending time with friends or going for a walk in nature.
Encouraging them to seek professional support if they need it.
Learn to recognize warning signs. This is the first step to helping your child battle depression and/or anxiety.

Understanding the signs and symptoms of depression and anxiety in children is the first step towards getting help. Especially since children with depression or anxiety may not show any outward symptoms, it’s important to pay attention to how your child is feeling inside. If you think that your child might be suffering from depression or anxiety, speak to a mental health professional immediately. They will be able to give you advice on how best to manage these conditions so that they don't develop into something more serious later on in life.

The Psychology of Procrastination

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 01:44:38 GMT

I can’t be the only one who procrastinates on important tasks even though I know it not only doesn’t help but also causes more stress.

Procrastination is defined as the act of intentionally delaying tasks by doing less important or more enjoyable tasks in place, and was once described as “ one of the least understood human miseries ”. For example, when I have a lot of work to do, I choose to binge watch a TV show for hours, instead of actually getting the work done and eliminating my stress. The negative consequences of procrastination stretch from physical health to mental health. When we procrastinate, we are more likely to sleep less, eat poorly, drink more alcohol, have illnesses, and experience anxiety, guilt, and even more pressure.

This all boils down to the question of, why? Why do we engage in procrastination despite our awareness of the consequences? Why do I choose to do literally anything else, except for the actual task that will diminish my stress? It all seems pretty counterproductive.

Research has shown that the causes are a complex intertwinement of behavioral, socio-cultural, and biological issues. It can not be boiled down to one single factor as the driving force.

Self-efficacy

Some researchers believe that at its core, procrastination is a reflection of a person’s perception of their own self-worth and self-efficacy. Self-efficacy is our belief in our ability to complete a task, which affects our effort, persistence, resilience, and level of performance. When we are faced with a challenging task, the first thing we do is evaluate our own abilities to accomplish the task. Even if it’s subconsciously, we ask ourselves, “can I do this? Do I know how to do this?” If we have a low self-efficacy, we might abandon our tasks because of our believed “deficiencies”. As self-efficacy decreases, procrastination increases.

Additionally, procrastinators tend to make a direct connection between level of performance and self-worth. What this means is that when we perform poorly on a task, we may attribute that to our own capabilities and self-worth instead of recognizing other obstacles that may have affected our level of performance. And, instead of seeing our successes as the result of our efforts, we just see it as luck. Procrastination then becomes purposeful—a method to maximize the time our pride is protected.

Fear of Failure and Perfectionism

Very closely related to self-efficacy, procrastination can be a result of our fear of failure. It’s easier to blame disorganization and lack of time for your failures instead of admitting your own inadequacy. An illustration of this could be receiving negative feedback on a task from a superior. If you had procrastinated, you would be able to tell yourself that the

reason you performed poorly was because you didn’t spend enough time on the task, not because you were incapable.

This feature of failure can sometimes come from perfectionism, even if we may not know it ourselves. Many procrastinators put unrealistic demands on themselves, feeling immense pressure. As they become overwhelmed, they will procrastinate in order to withdraw themselves from the task. Perfectionists might also believe they can achieve excellence with minimal effort. When this isn’t the case, they resort to delaying the task, avoiding the truth.

Task Characteristics

Finally, the nature of the task itself can also be why people choose to procrastinate. The logic behind this idea is simple: if we don’t like the task, we won’t want to do it, so we’ll choose to do something else instead. I personally hate washing the dishes. So, even when I know it will take me 5 minutes to clean the lunch I just made, I simply refuse to do it and put it off until I have to make dinner.

What Can We Do?

If you are someone who believes a large part of your procrastination stems from self-esteem, remind yourself that your performance on tasks is not an indicator of your self-worth. Even if you fail, that’s okay! Instead of constantly trying to protect our pride, we have to acknowledge that some tasks will just have to take more effort. It doesn't mean we're not good enough.

If perfectionism is the culprit of your procrastination, try not to focus on making every little detail perfect the next time you do a task. Just get started and see where you go from there, even if it might not turn out exactly like you had envisioned.

Of course, there are lots of other factors that affect procrastination as well. Anxiety, depression, lack of energy, and ADHD are all also possible causes. And, many of these factors mentioned today may not apply to you as well. But, the more we reflect on ourselves, the more we may be able to figure out why we choose to procrastinate and counteract those causes.

Clinician Spotlight: Dr. Haroon Malik

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 01:41:11 GMT

In the first installment of our series Clinician Spotlight, we sit down with our talented clinician Dr. Haroon Malik and find out about his journey, challenges, and values as a psychologist!

What do you hope clients gain when working with you?

When I meet with each and every client, my ultimate mission is to answer their important clinical questions, and address their concerns regarding their cognitive, psychological, emotional, and interpersonal functioning. In addition to having their important questions/concerns answered comprehensively, I also hope that clients gain a better understanding of themselves, their potential weaknesses and, importantly, their strengths. For this reason, I strive to be as comprehensive and thorough with my evaluations and target assessment through a multidimensional approach.

What experiences have brought you to this profession?

It may sound cliche, but really, I've always been a "people person." I genuinely enjoy meeting new people and understanding the perspective of others through empathy and putting myself in "their shoes." Such a perspective really allows me to be present in the room with my clients and obtain a comprehensive clinical picture throughout my evaluations. Also, my prior pre-med experiences has also been very helpful, particularly when faced with more medically complex clinical populations.

I'm most proud of the "process" through my professional journey thus far. Being that my two older siblings and my mother are all medical doctors, I entered college being a pre-med major, with the desire to also become a medical provider. By my third year in college, I realized how medicine, while something that I have always been strongly interested in, was not for me. I gravitated towards pursuing a career in psychology and behavioral health. The graduate school journey was certainly taxing and, at times, quite challenging. In spite of that, looking back at this entire process, I am proud of trusting this "process" through resiliency and, of course, very strong support from my wife, siblings, parents, and friends.

What are you most proud of about yourself and what you have accomplished?

What are some challenges you have faced in your career and how did you overcome them?

I've encountered various challenges, like many other psychologists and health care professionals; sometimes difficulties with time management, having mild clashes with supervisors, and trying to maintain a strong work-life balance are some of them. Ultimately, I was able to tackle many of these challenges by being patient and determined in the "process," and constantly reminding myself of the "end-game" of this process; ultimately receiving my degree, practicing independently and, most importantly, helping others. But I cannot understate the importance of support through this adversity, namely my wife and my family. They've all been there for me when times were most difficult and reminded me the importance of confidence and resilience.

How do you spend your free time?

I really enjoy exercising, going on runs, socializing, and watching thriller and comedy movies/TV series! I also spend my free time playing video games (sports and shooter games, if we're being specific...).

What are some important values that come to mind when working with clients?

I always think it's important to be patient with clients. Every patient comes in with a different background, set of circumstances, adversities, and upbringing. Essentially, everyone has a different set of cards. Thus, I think it's so important to take the time to understand each client, all of their concerns, and their psychosocial, medical, and developmental history, because this will help me help the patient more effectively. Also empathy and compassion is critical in this process; by putting myself in clients' shoes, I can better "grasp" where they are coming from, and how I can help them best. And finally, resilience and fortitude; I think clients, and really most individuals in general, can become quickly bogged down during times of struggle/difficulty, and become less aware of their strengths and abilities. Thus, I always strive to identify and remind clients of these important attributes, to instill confidence and autonomy!

Thank you so much for this insightful interview, Dr. Malik! I'm sure many of our readers were able to learn more about you as both a person and psychologist.

Check back in future weeks for further installments of our series, Clinician Spotlight!

Clinician Spotlight: Dr. Kristin Schultz

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 01:32:01 GMT

In our ongoing series 'Clinician Spotlight', we learn more about all the amazing clinicians here at Newton Neuropsychology Group. In this installment, we sit with Dr. Kristin Schultz to learn more about her!

What do you hope clients gain when working with you?

I hope that clients gain insight into how their minds work and I hope to help give them practical ways to harness their strengths and bolster their growing edges. Everyone

who comes for testing is unique and I try to capture that. Often patients come into the assessment situation with a lot of anxiety about what is going on with them (or their

child) and anxiety about the entire testing process. Many have never been tested before and have no idea what to expect. It is my hope that I ease that anxiety while staying focused on the task at hand- how to understand this person and convey what insights and recommendations I have in a clear way. These insights are based on listening to them, communication with people in their lives, and the actual tests. Ideally, they feel understood, listened to, supported, have a better sense of who they are, and are armed with a plan going forward.

I would say that finding my niche took a little time. I always had testing experience wherever I went, but it took me time to realize that my real passion is in testing, not so much in therapy, supervision, or management. I took a longer route to get where I am, but I think this makes me have insight and understanding that I might not have otherwise. Having worked closely with adults and children in different settings has helped me understand what it is like to experience different problems on a day-to-day basis, and it helped me see how different interventions can promote health, growth, and wellness.

What are some challenges you have faced in your career and how did you overcome them?

What are some important values that come to mind when working with clients?

Really hearing what patients have to say, what their concerns are, what they are looking

for and then trying to help. Respect, collaboration, good communication, responsiveness,

empathy, and being a calming presence are important. Humor can also go a long way

with many people!

What experiences have brought you to this profession?

Someone close to me experienced severe and persistent mental illness and it made me want to help others with similar struggles. When I was in college, I started working in supported housing with adults with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other mental health conditions, and then I got a job working in a specialized residential treatment program (based on Dialectical Behavior Therapy) for women diagnosed with Borderline Personality disorder complicated by severe trauma histories, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and some with substance use disorders.The job was tough, but very rewarding. I loved connecting with the women and watching them learn and grow. I also got very good training at that job, and it cemented my desire to continue the path to becoming a psychologist.

How do you spend your free time?

I spend as much time as I can with my elderly parents in New Hampshire. They have a lovely place on a lake and I enjoying swimming, boating, kayaking, and simply taking in the beauty of the area. I have 3 fur babies (2 kittens and 1 dog), so I have my hands full at home! I also spend time with my good friends on a regular basis.

Lastly, what parts of your work do you enjoy the most?

I feel very lucky because I enjoy most parts of my work. I like meeting and learning about different people and sharing in their journeys. I like administration of tests, scoring, interpretation, and I love writing. And finally, I like and respect my colleagues at Newton Neuropsychology Group!

What’s next for you?

Anna: Starting in July I'll be working in Rochester, NY completing my APA internship at Rochester Regional Health's neuropsychology track.

DJ: I matched for APA Internship at the Bedford VA hospital, and then after that, a neuropsych post-doc!

Jordan: I’ll be moving to Pittsburgh to complete my predoctoral internship as the final step before graduating with a Psy.D. in clinical psychology. I look forward to continuing and growing the work I started at NNG within a new setting.

Farewell!

While we’re sad to see our grad students go, we are so grateful for the time we’ve had with them and for the drive, dedication, and positivity they’ve added to our community. We wish them all the best in their future endeavors!

Facing Our Unhelpful Thoughts

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 01:23:04 GMT

There are two things I struggle with everyday: one, walking up the dreaded hill outside of my house, and two, battling cognitive distortions. Cognitive distortions, or “unhelpful thoughts”, are exaggerated patterns of thought that aren’t based on facts, which lead you to believing negative things about yourself and the world. “I did well, but I just got lucky.” “I did horrible in that interview, I’m never going to get a job.” If you’ve ever had any of these thoughts, then you have experienced cognitive distortions. It’s perfectly natural to have these thoughts, but it can have a severe impact on your mental health if it happens too often. Our thoughts are connected to our behaviors and feelings; so, let’s take a look at the different types of unhelpful thoughts so you can be better equipped to reframe them in a more positive light.

1. Overgeneralization

“I’m running late and I hit a red light. Nothing ever goes my way!”

Overgeneralization refers to making broad, sweeping generalizations based on a single event or experience. In the above example, hitting a red light is just a single experience. Logically, it does not predict or say anything about yourself as a person or how the rest of your day will go. But, if you overgeneralize, you may view the situation as evidence for your perceived unluckiness in life, rather than what it truly is—hitting a red light.

2. Catastrophizing

“If my partner leaves me, I’ll never find anyone else and I’ll never be happy again.”

Catastrophizing is when we assume the worst possible outcome will happen. It is absolutely not true that if your partner leaves you, you are doomed to be unhappy forever. It’s an unhelpful thought that causes you to view your life negatively and look down on yourself.

3. Splitting

“I failed this math test, so I’m horrible at math and will never succeed.”

Splitting is viewing situations or people in extreme terms. In this case, a more reasonable conclusion would be to say that you’ll study harder and do better on the next test, rather than viewing yourself in the extreme that you are horrible at math. Perhaps there were some external situations that made it more difficult to study this time. This, again, is a pattern of thought that is not based on fact.

4. Minimization

“My boss just complimented me on my report, but it’s just something anyone could do.”

If you’ve had this thought or something similar to it, then you have participated in minimization. Minimization refers to downplaying the importance of a positive event or personal quality. Your report just might be amazing and well-written! Don’t minimize your achievements; you are allowed to be proud of them.

5. Mind reading

“My friend looks serious, they must be mad at me.”

Mind reading is assuming a person’s (usually negative) thoughts based on their behavior. Before assuming that your friend is mad at you, have you stopped to think that perhaps something else happened in their day that has nothing to do with you? Or, your friend may just be concentrating on a serious task.

6. Emotional reasoning

“I’m feeling inadequate, so I must be worthless.”

Say it with me: My feelings are NOT facts. Emotional reasoning is when you conclude that your emotional reaction means something is true. Over the years, we’ve learned to trust and rely on our emotions. But, emotions can sometimes be based on fantasies that make us unhappy. They can be based on misunderstandings or our negative perception of a situation.

7. Fortune telling

“I’m not going to get the job.”

This is a very common cognitive distortion of predicting (usually negative) outcomes before they occur. Why do you think you’re not going to get the job? There may be some factors that have led you to this conclusion, but there is much more that goes into whether you will actually get the job. Perhaps you had a great personality fit with the interviewer. Maybe you were the most competitive out of all the other applicants. Perhaps your experience lined up with the job requirements the best. There are so many other factors that you are unaware of, so you are drawing this conclusion without knowing the majority of the evidence.

If we are aware of these types of unhelpful thoughts, it will be much easier to know when our minds are playing tricks on us so that we can reframe our thoughts.

Clinician Spotlight: Dr. Cara Soccorso

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 01:18:41 GMT

We are so excited to introduce our newest clinician Dr. Cara Soccorso, who works with children, adolescents, and young adults, with a particular specialty in assessing young children aged 0 to 4! Here, we sit down with Dr. Soccorso and learn more about her abundant training, experience, and values.

What do you hope clients will gain from working with you?

My hope is that clients will learn more about themselves in the evaluation process. My goal is to make clients feel like they have the information they need to be their most successful selves. Additionally, when someone is seeking an evaluation, I want to make sure that I’m being thorough and I really understand the client to best address their concerns and to figure out the best ways to support them moving forward.

Hands down, the clients. I love so much of what I do, but I think interacting with clients is what makes my job fun. During the social isolation period of Covid, I was doing a lot of virtual evaluations and behavioral consultations, but I really missed being face to face with clients. I think that there’s a lot to be said for having in-person interactions in order to fully appreciate someone for who they are.

What parts of your work do you enjoy the most?

What are some self-care activities that you use for managing general life stressors?

I think my self-care and the ways that I like to spend my free time are very similar. The time that I spend with my kids and husband is what helps me relax and destress. We love taking our kids to local community activities, swimming classes, or the library. But, they also even make going to the grocery store fun! I also really like to travel; my family spends a lot of time in Nantucket, which is where my husband and I got married, so we feel very lucky to have a getaway that’s close to home.

What are some important values that come to mind when working with clients?

My goal is to always make sure that the client feels understood and supported. In order to do that, I think it’s important to establish a good rapport, respect, and empathy. Additionally, assessments by nature often use a deficit model, which may focus on looking for areas of weakness or finding ways of fitting presentations into a diagnostic category. However, my approach is to use a strength-based model and to make sure to highlight areas in which the client’s also doing well. In this way, I can tailor my recommendations to make sure that they will play to the client’s strengths while also supporting their areas of need.

What brought you to this profession?

I had an uncle and also a few friends who had Down syndrome. Over time, I saw the difference that services made for each of them. For example, my uncle grew up in a time and a place where fewer resources were available to him, but he still had a really meaningful and successful life. We’ve also seen our friends make really great progress by having supports and resources that were tailored to support their learning style. In my work, I’ve also seen the difference services can make for families when they are connected to the right ones. So, for as long as I can remember, I've always wanted to help people be their best selves and to ensure that they have access to resources to help them succeed.

What are you most proud of about yourself and what you have accomplished?

Personally, I'm most proud of my family. I have a great husband, 2 adorable kids, and a miniature goldendoodle, who give me so much joy. It’s been really fun to watch my husband become a dad and to watch my kids develop their own personalities. Professionally, I would say I’m most proud of my work ethic. I feel really lucky to have had such amazing training experience and employment opportunities that fostered my growth as a clinician and helped me find my niche.

Neurodiversity: Why does it matter?

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 01:12:21 GMT

If every brain were the same, we would be limited by one set of strengths and possibilities.

What is Neurodiversity?

The conversation around Neurodiversity began recently, just 25 years ago! An Australian sociologist, Judy Singer, coined the term "neurodiversity" in 1998, noticing many of the cognitive differences in society.

Oxford Languages defines Neurodiversity as "the range of differences in individual brain function and behavioral traits, regarded as part of normal variation in the human population."

What is our current understanding of neurodiversity?

Most people have heard of the term Neurodiversity. Despite this, there are a lot of misconceptions and assumptions! According to research from Understood.org, Only 52% of Americans know that neurodivergent people don't all have autism, and 43% of Americans incorrectly believe people outgrow learning disabilities/differences.

What can Neurodiversity bring?

The hallmark of diversity is that with more perspectives comes more unique perspectives that can significantly strengthen teams' performance and problem-solving abilities. Those perspectives and innovative ideas stem from our brains, so the more diverse our brains are, the more variation our ideas can have!

The perspective of Neurodiversity suggests that it is the environment and society that hinders individuals with neurological differences, rather than the individual's neurological condition itself. With a suitable climate, accommodations, and support, neurodivergent individuals have the potential to become some of society's most creative and successful individuals! The roadblock arises, however, when neurodivergent individuals do not receive the proper accommodations they need to level the playing field and excel, whether it's in school or the workplace.

Harnessing Strengths

Fostering Neurodiversity leads to more inclusive & productive environments. Educators with learning differences, for example, serve as instrumental role models for students with learning differences.

Additionally, the impulsivity that is associated with ADHD has been demonstrated to lead to some of the most creative and original ideas. The hyperfocus that is associated with ADHD can lead to the strongest passion towards things that interest those individuals.

Many individuals with autism have stronger declarative memories and problem solving abilities than their neurotypical peers. And, research has demonstrated that individuals with dyslexia process many of the stimuli around them differently. Rather than using primarily verbal thinking, many individuals with dyslexia use a 3-dimensional multi-sensory process with spatial images that is processed much faster and in a way that can be better retained than traditional verbal thinking.

Some of the most successful, renowned people in society are neurodivergent and have spoken about how their differences led to their success. .

Albert Einstein : “Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.
Greta Thunberg : “To make clear, Autism is not something that makes you “better” than others. Nor is it a “condition/disorder” that necessarily disables you. It’s simply something that makes you different, and in a world where everyone strives to fit in, being different is a strength.”
Shark Tank’s Barbara Carcoran : “Dyslexia made me a millionaire… I spent 6 hours a day daydreaming in class.”
Elon Musk : After opening up about his experience with Autism, Musk shared “I just want to say, I reinvented electric cars (Tesla) and I’m sending people to Mars in a rocket ship (SpaceX). Did you think I was also going to be a chill, normal dude?”

Takeaways

Through proper diagnosis, individuals with learning differences can receive appropriate treatment. And with the proper treatment, support, and accommodations, many of the strengths neurodivergent individuals have can be unleashed. We must stand from a perspective that values neurodiversity, its unique perspectives, and the cutting-edge innovation that it can bring.

Sources:

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/23154-neurodivergent#:~:text=The%20term%20%E2%80%9Cneurodivergent%E2%80%9D%20came%20from,develops%20in%20a%20unique%20way

https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/understoodorg-research-reveals-that-more-than-half-of-americans-dont-trust-information-about-neurodivergence-that-they-see-on-social-media-301698203.html

https://embrace-autism.com/autism-strengths-and-challenges/

https://www.dyslexiasupportsouth.org.nz/parent-toolkit/emotional-impact/strengths-of-dyslexia/

Psychometrist Spotlight: Jessica Hack

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 01:08:58 GMT

In our ongoing series 'Clinician Spotlight', we learn more about all the amazing clinicians here at Newton Neuropsychology Group. In this installment, we sit with Psychometrist Jessica Hack to learn more about her!

What do you hope clients will gain from working with you?

The biggest thing I hope clients gain is being able to feel comfortable - to feel as though they can come in and perform with no judgment to do the best that they can. The whole point is for them to feel comfortable enough to better understand their brain with the information we provide. I strive to tailor my approach to make clients all feel that all the information they receive is beneficial. It is crucial for me to be compassionate throughout the testing and help clients learn more about themselves.

As a Psychology major, I pursued this career when I was unsure of exactly what I wanted to specialize in. Through my job as a tech, I was introduced to the magical integration of both realms of neuroscience and psychology. I’m fascinated by how we can see the connection of behavior and data and then match those pieces of information to potential disorders or traits. Even after seven years, I still see people complete things in new ways.

What drew you to this field?

What parts of your work do you enjoy the most?

I love working with people, and the pandemic solidified that. Even when it is unpredictable, this career enables me to make a direct influence on people’s lives. This is what keeps me going and what makes me love my job so much.

What are you most proud of about yourself and what you have accomplished?

I am definitely proud of the work I've done training and inspiring other technicians, and my journey from working as a tech to a head tech to a supervisor. It has always been pivotal for me to train others in the ways I found the most interesting, and the most helpful. Being able to share my perspective so other techs can be the best they can be for their clients is so rewarding.

Outside of work, what brings you joy?

And to all of the Boston Sports Fans…

I grew up in New York, but I root for the Boston Sports Teams after living here for seven years (unless they’re playing each other, shhh)

I recently adopted my dog, Atlas. He’s a doberman german-shepard lab mix, and a very energetic boy! I also really like reiki, and I often have crystals at home or at my desk at work. I enjoy scientific things and holistic things ��

“yeah, I like the rocks!”

Thanks a Latte, Caffeine!

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 01:02:35 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

More than 85% of U.S. adults rely on coffee to boost their energy throughout the day, but what exactly does it do to our brains?

Coffee’s most lucrative assets

Among many healthy antioxidants, the compound that truly gives coffee its kick, and what many people rely so heavily on it for, is caffeine! Naturally found in over 60 different plants, Caffeine is often consumed in teas, coffees, sodas, and even in some foods.

Did you know, caffeine is a drug?

That’s right! Caffeine is a natural central nervous system stimulant that works when it prevents the neurotransmitter adenosine from functioning in the brain. Adenosine is what makes us sleepy, it binds to receptors in our neurons and slows brain activity. It naturally increases throughout the day, promoting sleep and eventually making us feel drowsy when it’s time to go to bed. However, caffeine’s molecular structure is very similar to adenosine, so it fights for its receptors, and when it successfully binds to them, it prevents adenosine from getting to them, and therefore aiding in eliminating that sleepy feeling. This stimulates the central nervous system, and is what gives us that sense of alertness!

Caffeine can be a healthy powerhouse

Brain entropy is the quantitative measure of disorder within the functions of the brain. Its quantification of the brain’s complexity is essential in measuring conscious experience as well as the brain’s capacity for adaptation. Interestingly enough, consuming caffeine is seen to have an increase in resting brain entropy, which has a correlation to higher processing abilities. This means that a higher resting brain entropy means higher information processing capacities. Not only are you more alert, you are able to process more info, all thanks to your morning cuppa!

While caffeine works hard to block adenosine, it additionally stimulates the brain by promoting the release of other neurotransmitters like noradrenaline, dopamine, and serotonin that improve various aspects of of brain function like mood, reaction time, attention, and even learning, among other things!

You know what they say about too much of a good thing…

Much like other drugs, regular caffeine consumption can lead to a tolerance, with people needing to consume more to get the same effects. A dependency can occur very fast, as little as 7 days, and be able to be sustained with incredibly small doses at 100mg, compared to the average 200mg-400mg. This in turn can lead to withdrawal symptoms like headaches, fatigue, irritability, dizziness, nausea, and even depressed moods. The severity and variety of these symptoms vary from person to person, and should not be taken lightly. It’s been shown that a vast majority of caffeine consumers do it mostly to avoid withdrawal symptoms, as it takes anywhere from 2 to 9 days to successfully do so.

The two sides of one coin… or cup

Caffeines’ double edged sword of rewarding individuals with alertness, while punishment in withdrawals make it one of humanities’ most beloved and cared for foods. Caffeine is a blessing and a curse, and one should be wise to regularly evaluate their relationships with it. Thanks a latte, caffeine!

Need a Brain Workout? Listen to music!

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 00:59:29 GMT

They say to workout your body, you go to the gym, you want to workout your brain? Listen to your favorite tunes.

Nothing quite like it!

Music is actually an intricate structural, mathematical and architectural mechanism, as it’s based on relationships between one note and the next. Sound vibrations travel to our ear canals, tickle the eardrum and are then transmitted into electrical signals that travel through the auditory nerve to the brain stem, where it then gets reassembled into something we perceive as music. That’s just the beginning though, as music then goes on to activate almost all parts of the brain regions and networks! For example, The parts of the brain responsible for emotion are not only activated during emotional music, they are synchronized with other parts of the brain in order to feel. Music also activates memory regions and interestingly enough, even activates your motor systems as it allows us to pick out the beat of the music even before we start dancing! Little can stimulate the brain in the same way, and therefore gives your brain a total workout!

The brain works hard to enjoy music

This constant processing of music makes the brain so much stronger as it works hard to keep a variety of brain pathways and networks working well enough to enjoy the sounds. Some of those networks are involved in well-being, learning, cognitive function, quality of life, and happiness. It seems like listening to music helps in a well rounded brain!

Ever heard of “use it or lose it”?

The brain is extremely efficient, it rewires and evaluates its pathways and networks often, strengthening those most used and weakening those not often in use. it isn’t going to bother keeping either strong when it hasn’t been used in many years, the neurons could be put to good use somewhere else! But as mentioned earlier, music activates all parts of the brain, and listening to it often lets the brain know to strengthen a whole lot of pathways, leaving a majority of the brain stronger and less likely to lose important pathways or networks.

Strong brain, strong gain!

With music strengthening pathways and networks, they get stronger when they face adversity, improving memory recall, reducing seizures, and even helping in repairing brain damage. This can prove to be incredibly useful in the prevention of cardiac conditions, depression, autism, substance abuse, and dementia, along with many others. Additionally, music can help people experiencing dementia, where studies have shown that they respond better to the music they grew up listening to. “If you play someone’s favorite music, different parts of the brain light up, that means memories associated with music are emotional memories, which never fade out — even in Alzheimer’s patients” (Kiminobu Sugaya, Ph.D.).

Mozart theory, debunked!

The Mozart theory suggested that there is a connection between listening to classical music and making the listener smarter. This is not true! This theory was debunked when researchers found that the gray matter in your brain takes to the music you have an affinity to, whether that be rock and roll, indie, jazz, or hip-hop, listen to it with pride! Any music is beneficial, and being open to new types of music, recent or old, can aid in strengthening your brain pathways even further.

Music holds the key

If anything, take this as an excuse to listen to music more often and with more pride! Your brain benefits a lot more than we could ever feel, go get those gains!

Helpful Hobbies: Doing what you love strengthens your brain!

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 00:55:55 GMT

From reading, to creating art, to gaming, to going outside, the possibilities of what you can do with your free time are endless. However did you know that the hobbies you choose to fill your free time with actually strengthen your brain?

For the museum-goers

The consumption of art and culture has been an essential part of our history, and still proves to be lucrative to this day! The arts are said to nourish systems of sensory, attention, cognition, emotion, and so much more. These systems are integral to all other learning, in various different settings.

When you observe a piece of art, your brain is potentially firing the same neurons the artist did when they created the piece, this creates new neural pathways and is the reason why you may feel inspired when you go to museums! This is an example of “embodied cognition,” where thoughts are not just shaped by our brains but rather our sensory interactions with the world around us!

In addition, when you look at art, regardless of what it’s portraying, the part of the brain related to pleasure increases in activity. In fact, there was a study that revealed that participants’ blood flow increased in that part of their brain as much as 10% when looking at art they considered most beautiful. That 10% is the same as when you look at a loved one!

In turn, this sense of awe, wonder, and inspiration promote healthy levels of cytokines, leading to an improved immune system and inflammation responses, allowing people to live longer, healthier lives.

Empathetic artists

Have you ever heard a book worm say that reading transports you to another world? Well, they’re actually right!

Reading gives us the ability to increase neuroplasticity, become more empathetic, and even trick our brains into thinking we’ve experienced what we’ve read!

Is reading more your speed?

The Original Virtual Reality

Reading creates visual imagery in our minds that is automatic. Even listening to an audiobook activates various parts of your brain depending on what you’re listening to. When we're listening to a story, not only are language processing parts of our brain activated, experiential parts of our brain come alive too, like for example, your sensory cortex lighting up when you hear or read about food or your motor cortex activating when there is motion. you give your brain good exercise!

You might not have known it, but the reason why reading is considered the first form of virtual reality is because your brain actually can't make a distinction between reading about certain experiences and actually living through them! This means that the same neurological regions are stimulated whether or not you read about a situation or if you actually experienced it. Deep reading allows us to feel what characters in our stories feel, which in turn makes us more empathetic to people in our realities. No wonder why we feel so connected to stories as if they’re real!

Brenna Lincoln

Do it for the plot!

Although any kind of reading can stimulate the brain, it has been proven that reading media for literary study is more effective for stimulating and exercising the brain compared to reading for pleasure, however furthermore, learning a foreign language through reading provides growth in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex of the brain.

Plotlines of novels tend to follow a pattern of beginning, middle, and end, which in turn trains our brains to think in sequences! The more we read, the more we think in cause and effect terms, leading to an increased brain plasticity, and attention span!

Not everyone has an affinity to reading, and that’s okay! Reading is not something that everyone yearns to be proficient in, but training oneself in order to read more has been proven to increase white matter in the area of the brain responsible for language. By training yourself to love reading, you can improve brain structure greatly.

Do video games pique your interest?

Video games on the human brain have been researched and debated on for decades, but has led to varying results, So what really are its effects?

Gaming mechanics

Through its use of attention control and reward processing, video games have been shown to increase brain plasticity, which is the way in which the brain adapts to learning! the basis behind this is that gaming has seen to increase the brain's gray matter, which contains billions of neurons responsible for controlling movement, retaining memories, and regulating emotions

The demands for attention to detail and task management that various genres of video games require allows players to feel a barrage of reinforcement throughout the completions of game objectives. This in turn requires strong and precise attention and reaction to decipher the auditory and visual cues video game objectives throw at a player, leading to increased focus and hand-eye coordination. Furthermore, Video games are also able to improve the ability to set shift. Not to be confused by multitasking, set shifting is the ability to move back and forth between different tasks quickly

A bit of a catch

However, what makes video games so controversial is that many of the studies done contradict each other. But what remains constant is the risk of video game addictions. The constant stimulation of video games are what can prompt an addiction.The mechanisms of which are similar to other substance use disorders, activating the same parts of the brain and creating a dopamine overload.

A lot of the effects of video games are multifaceted as well. For example, while they may increase spatial awareness and hand-eye coordination, they can also cause structural brain differences and a loss of self-control. In addition, while the effects of videogames can be beneficial, they are not the only stimulants the brain can learn from. Real life events that mirror some of the quick-time objectives of video games can prove to be more influential. In conclusion, although the effects of videogames are varied and are still being researched, the consistency is that their effects are certainly real.

Whether positive or negative, video games are a powerful form of entertainment and it is important to form healthy relationships in our usage with them, to be wary of the prevention of video game addictions.

Conclusion

This list is not extensive, there are thousands of hobbies people can enjoy and niches they can be a part of! However one thing is for sure, and the similarities between all of these hobbies are that they have the potential to transport people to new worlds, grow the brain, and lead to happier, healthier lives.

Clinician Spotlight: Dr. Ida Kellison

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 00:46:52 GMT

In our ongoing series ‘Clinician Spotlight’, we introduce you to the wonderful clinicians we have here at Newton Neuropsychology Group! In this installment, we sit down with Dr. Ida Kellison to learn more about her journey and values as a psychologist.

What do you hope clients will gain from working with you?

I hope that they'll gain an understanding of the relationship between the brain and behavior—that's the expertise of a neuropsychologist. We understand how the brain impacts not only cognitive functioning, but also emotional functioning and functioning in daily life. After we administer and discuss the tests and how a person performed, we translate that information into tips and tricks and techniques that a person can incorporate into their daily life. It's meant to be practical advice, and that is what I hope people will take from working with me.

Well, after finishing my undergraduate degrees where I majored in philosophy, psychology, and religious studies, I initially thought I might become an environmental lawyer. Then, I started auditing some meetings with the neuropsychologist at the hospital that I was working at, and I found it really fascinating that the neuroscientists would put up a scan from someone's brain and then ask, “what would you predict based on the area of damage that occurred in the brain?”, and people would talk about all of the things that they expected to happen. Understanding those brain-behavior relationships just became really interesting to me. So I, as a post-bacc, actually took some additional courses in neuropsychology, and then ended up applying for graduate school.

Why did you choose to pursue this profession?

What are you most proud of about yourself and what you've accomplished?

I think that I am most proud of being able to balance all of the demands of life, and I won't say that I'm doing that perfectly. A lot of my clients come for questions around attention, organization, and time management where they feel that they're not performing particularly well, and I think this is a challenge for everybody. We have a lot of demands placed on us—being a good family member, good parent, good student, good employee, good friend. All of it requires a lot of balancing different priorities, time, and pressures. So I feel proud that I have been balancing, working full time with being a parent and spouse, a daughter and a friend. It's hard work being a human.

What do you think is the most challenging part about your job?

I think the most challenging part is effectively communicating how the results of these, sometimes, unusual tests translate into a person's functioning outside of the testing environment. We test people in a one-on-one environment with reduced distractions, followed by making predictions about how they might be functioning in the world and recommendations about things that they can do better. But sometimes I think that can be a hard point to make or a bridge to build.

Brenna Lincoln

What are some important values that come to mind when working with clients?

Openness to another person's experience, being inquisitive, and being interested in what's going on with somebody else. Being compassionate and caring would definitely also be at the top.

Newton Neuropsychology Group

Fact Check: Mental health’s greatest myths, debunked!

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 00:30:57 GMT

What is one of the fastest growing fields of study with groundbreaking research and decades worth of stigma to break? That’s right, it's mental health! Our mental health consists of our emotional, psychological, and social well-being, and in turn, it affects how we think, feel, and act. Illnesses that arise within our mental health have been on the backburner for too long, resulting in conflicting information and years of misconception that make it hard for the truth about mental illness to seep into mass media. Here are some common myths debunked!

Myth: “If you have a good life you have nothing to be depressed about.”

Depression can arise for no reason that can be easily identified. It can result from a complex interaction of social, psychological, and biological factors, and can affect anyone regardless of their socioeconomic status or how “good” their life appears at face value. Plus, who are we to diagnose someone just based on how they look?

Myth: “Children don’t experience mental health issues.”

Early warning signs of mental health concerns may manifest even in young children. Half of all mental health disorders show first signs before a person turns 14-years-old, and three-quarters of mental health disorders begin before age 24. Unfortunately, not enough children and adolescents with diagnosable mental health conditions receive the treatment they need. Early mental health support can be influential in helping a child before problems interfere with other developmental needs.

Myth: “Mental illness is a sign of weakness, for if one were stronger, they wouldn't have it.”

A mental health condition has nothing to do with being weak or lacking willpower. Anyone can develop a mental health condition, and recognizing the need to accept help for a mental health condition requires great strength and courage.

Myth: “There is no hope for people with mental health issues. Once someone develops a mental health condition, they will never recover, and developing an illness is inevitable.”

Although there is in fact no given cure for mental illness, there are more treatments, services, and community support systems than ever before that work to aid and relieve symptoms an individual may face in terms of school, work, and social environments. In addition, these treatments are also factors that can protect people from developing mental health conditions, like strengthening social and emotional skills, seeking help and support early on, etc. Otherwise, The ability to overcome adversity relies on a combination of protective factors, no environmental nor individual stressors alone will necessarily result in mental health problems, so taking protective measures may prevent or lessen the chance of developing a mental illness.

Conclusion

This list is in no way extensive. There are a plethora of myths that have and still need to be debunked. Remember to always scrutinize charged opinions about mental health and speak up when you know something is wrong. The first step to getting rid of the stigma around the importance of mental health is awareness!

Talk the Talk: the low-down on talking therapies!

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 00:26:42 GMT

Thanks to groundbreaking research and data, there are a number of different types of therapies that aid people with so many aspects of life and illness, and has been proved to be incredibly lucrative! Keep reading to learn more about the specifics of talking therapies!

The rundown

Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, is a collection of treatments that aim to help a person identify and change troubling emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Some reasons for psychotherapy may be:

Harboring and living with severe or long-term stress. For example; a job, family situation, or a loss of a loved one or relationship, among other things
Noticing symptoms with no physical explanation, like changes in sleep or appetite, lower energy levels, new lack of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed, persistent irritability, excessive worry, or a continual sense of hopelessness that won’t go away
A health care provider suspecting or diagnosing someone with a mental disorder that is interfering with their life
Supporting a family member or close relation who has been diagnosed with a condition affecting their mental health
Living with depression, anxiety disorders, alcohol and drug use problems, marital problems, eating disorders, and severe mental illness.

Working hand in hand

Doctors will prescribe medication to those with mental illness that could benefit from it, but it’s common that psychotherapy can work alongside or even as an alternative to medications! This is because although medication relieves symptoms, psychotherapy can help a person pin-point and work on specific issues. For example, aiding in fixing self-deprecating ways of thinking, irrational fears, difficulties interacting with other people, or finding new coping mechanisms.

In the limelight: CBT!

There are a lot of methods that are used in talking therapies, but some of the most common forms are CBT, or cognitive behavioral therapy! This treatment has been proven to lead to significant improvement in functioning and quality of life.

Some of its core principles are:

Psychological problems are based, in part, on faulty or unhelpful ways of thinking.
Psychological problems are based, in part, on learned patterns of unhelpful behavior.
People suffering from psychological problems can learn better ways of coping with them, thereby relieving their symptoms and becoming more effective in their lives.

On top of these core values, a strength of CBT treatment is that therapists will incorporate efforts to change detrimental thinking patterns. Some strategies to do so can include:

Learning to recognize one’s distortions in thinking that are creating problems, and then reevaluate them in light of reality.
Gaining a better understanding of the behavior and motivation of others.
Using problem-solving skills to cope with difficult situations.
Learning to develop a greater sense of confidence in one’s own abilities.

These strategies are certainly not the end all be all for all CBT sessions. Rather, the psychologist and patient/client work together to develop an understanding of the problem and develop a unique and personalized treatment strategy, that can be a mix of some of the strategies listed above!

CBT’s influence: DBT!

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is based on CBT, but it's specially adapted for people who feel emotions very intensely. ‘Dialectical’ means trying to understand how two things that seem opposite could both be true. For example, accepting yourself and changing your behavior might feel contradictory, but the aim of DBT is to teach patients or clients that it's possible to achieve both together. The main differences between CBT and DBT are that CBT focuses on helping you to change unhelpful ways of thinking and behaving, and while DBT does this as well, it also focuses on accepting who you are at the same time. Additionally, DBT usually involves more group work than CBT.

Conclusion

Talking therapies are incredibly lucrative for all types of needs, and they are continuing to grow and develop to become even more effective. Contact us for more information, and don’t be afraid to ask for help!

Amazing Animals and Powerful Pets!

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 00:24:14 GMT

Are you a furry baby mom? Or maybe a pet papa? Those loyal companions instill so much joy and unconditional love, but did you know that they can do so much more than keep you company?

Pets and mental health at a glance

On the surface level, their companionship can provide a sense of security and the mutual need the pets have for their owners and vice versa allows for the increased sense of purpose. This is valuable for those who may live alone and the older populations, especially when owning a pet can help in socializing, when talking to other pet owners on walks, or getting supplies in the pet store!

And of course, taking care of a pet comes with a plethora of new responsibilities, but this in turn can add structure to people’s days, where it helps in solidifying a daily routine and can instill a sense of achievement everyday, improving your mental health!

Chemically

Playing with, or just being around animals, even just looking into their eyes, have been shown to decrease the stress hormone, cortisol, and increase the feel-good neurotransmitters of oxytocin and dopamine, altogether creating a more positive atmosphere. This nurtures the sense of joy, goodwill, and happiness. Pets are able to ease loneliness, reduce anxiety, depression, and blood pressure, as well as become an asset in the prevention of heart disease!

Something for all parts of life!

The power of a pet can be multifaceted and well rounded, where the benefits of pets can influence all areas of life! For example, 40% of working Americans say that their jobs get in the way of their health, but pets in the workplace, like a therapy dog, a company aquarium, or even a store cat, reduce stress overall and improve employee quality of life. In fact, the pet doesn’t even need to be there in person! It’s been shown that if a dog or cat shows up in a virtual meeting, coworkers will rank the owner higher on trust, and an overall increased sense of team cohesion and support.

Choose wisely

It’s not one type fits all, in terms of a needs-based furry friend. For example, if there’s a need for stress reduction, watching the swimming of fish could result in feelings of calmness, whereas if there was a need for physical activity, walking a dog could increase activity levels. Every animal brings valuable benefits! These fluffy companions can also be lucrative for those living with a specific condition. For instance, people living with ADHD can benefit from the structure of taking care of a pet, the extra physical activity of walking with a dog or running with a cat allowing children living with ADHD to release excess energy. Those living with autism can benefit from the relationship formed with pets that can build social skills with confidence, as well as providing a solace from potential sensory overload.

Reporting for duty!

Animal assisted therapy is an umbrella term for the various different ways that therapists will utilize the bond formed between human and animal to assist clients or patients.

There are therapy animals that undergo temperament testing, behavioral training, and are registered with a therapy animal organization. These are usually beloved family dogs that volunteer “part time” as a therapy animal. While these can be any animals, dogs and cats are most commonly used.

Emotional support animals, or ESAs, are animals that provide comfort to their owners by simply existing. They do not undergo any specific training, but are still lucrative in the aid of emotional regulation and increased happiness.

Psychiatric service dogs, or PSDs, undergo intense training that helps people living with mental illness. They are trained to aid owners with coping skills in times of stress, and can recognize the potential signs of danger that can help in the prevention of escalating situations. For example, alerting and calming their owner before a panic attack, and even being able to provide deep pressure therapy assistance. These dogs work and are trained specifically for their owners needs, and can only be handled by their owner!

Conclusion

The distinction of the three types of animal assisted therapies can allow people to make informed decisions based on their needs. Although having a pet could be extremely beneficial, it’s not something someone should decide on a whim! No matter what the animal is, take care to consider its needs and make sure you have enough energy, time, and space to care for it! If owning one is not a possibility, spend some time with friends’ pets, whatever they may be! There are also services that allow people to pet-sit or play with animals that aren’t theirs for an amount of time, and local animal shelters are often seeking volunteers!

Sleep Matters, 8 Hours is Not Overrated

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 00:19:10 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

If it’s late at night and you’re reading this blog post, get those Z’s instead! Otherwise, keep reading ��

Who’s getting their Z’s?:

It’s kinda common knowledge that we need 8(ish) hours of sleep. What’s not general knowledge: why we need it. The truth is though, not everyone is getting those Z’s ��

Did YOU know…

More than one-third of U.S. adults sleep less than seven hours per night, on average.
57.8% of middle schoolers and 72.7% of high school students get less than the recommended amount of sleep for their age.
30.8% of parents and guardians say their school-age children are not getting enough sleep, according to a SleepFoundation.org survey.

But maybe… if we knew why sleep was SO important, these stats would be looking a little better!

Why do the Z’s matter for day-to-day life?

You know those days you have to wake up really really early to catch a flight or get to work on an early day and you feel so yucky. Your mind isn’t thinking straight, driving sounds impossible, and your appetite is nowhere near existent. Maybe you’re nauseous, eyes barely open, and you press snooze on the alarm with an audible “UGH.” Yeah, we’ve all been there.

A lot of it is as simple as that… you just don’t feel great. The effects can be extremely tangible and concrete. You know exactly how the lack of sleep is affecting you. And other times, you don’t! In fact when lack of sleep is screwing with your brain you don’t always know. Your brain does! But unless you really think about it, you might not!

Sleep is necessary for so many day-to-day life tasks. And some are pretty obvious, but others you might not have really thought about…. So let’s think about it!

Attention: When we don’t get enough sleep, our attention span declines the next day. Attention is necessary for pretty much everything we do, from driving to reading! Our reaction time will be lower. For example, “going without sleep for 48 hours impairs cognitive abilities to the same degree as having a blood alcohol concentration of 0.1%, above the legal limit for driving in every state," (Harvard).
It helps us feel refreshed: Who wants to be yawning through meetings with their head bobbing like a bobble head?
Energy Conservation: It makes a lot of sense that we don’t have energy when we are sleep deprived. This is because sleep helps us replenish chemicals that make us feel alert.

What about mental health?

Sleep plays such a huge role in our mental health. There is a very strong link between mental health disorders and sleep problems, and this relationship is bidirectional - meaning it goes in both ways and they both affect each other.

Lack of sleep can worsen symptoms of anxiety and depression and lead to much lower energy levels and motivation. Through studies, high quality sleep has been shown to lessen symptoms of anxiety. This is thought to be due to the ability of deep sleep to restore and replenish many of the functions of the frontal cortex and limbic system which impact our emotions. Due to this, sleep is often used as a clinical recommendation!

Lack of sleep increases levels of neurotransmitters and chemicals in our brain that cause excessive stress and emotional dysregulation.

So get those Z’s!! ��

What about Z’s for your brain long term?

High quality sleep has a lot of long-term benefits for our brains! It can actually reduce the chances or severity of neurodegenerative diseases and neuro-cognitive decline… crazy right!

Here are some statistics and interesting facts:

“Researchers in Europe … examined data from almost 8,000 participants … and found that consistently sleeping six hours or less at age 50, 60, and 70 was associated with a 30% increase in dementia risk” (Harvard).
Sleep deprivation can increase the levels and malformations of the proteins Beta-Amyloid that are associated with Alzheimer’s Disease (NIH)
Many Patients with Parkinson's Disease report decreased symptoms after a good night of sleep.

What if I can’t sleep? Or what if I don’t have time to sleep?

We’ve all been there… rolling around trying our best to fall asleep. And it seems like the longer we try, the harder it becomes!

Of course this can happen occasionally, but when it becomes a consistent norm and insomnia is really messing with your day-to-day (or night-to-night) it is definitely worth reaching out to an expert!

In those easier moments where you can’t sleep here are some suggestions though:

Listen to instrumental music or an insomnia playlist to either put you to sleep or before bed. It can make a huge difference!
Try a deep breathing exercise. Box breathing or slower, intentional breathing can really help lower your heart rate and quiet all of those racing thoughts.
Read an easy-read book, jot down your thoughts in a journal or do something else that will make you feel sleepy.
Check the temperature and lighting in your room to make sure it’s ideal.
Do some light stretching.

And if you outright feel like you don’t have time to sleep (I know, too bad you can’t do 2 things at once while sleeping), then think about what you can do! Maybe you can do some larger-quantity meal prep or delegate to those you are working with. Maybe you can look at all of the things going on in your life and see if anything, just anything, can give. Time management is hard, and oftentimes sleep isn’t the first priority. But just like eating or hydrating, it’s crucial for our health (in the brain and out!)

Takeaways - Sleep Matters!

Hopefully you’re a bit more convinced of how crucial sleep is for you! So let’s all make a pact to prioritize it! Whether it’s literally putting a block of sleep on your Google Calendar or readjusting or reordering some daily responsibilities, let’s add those extra couple minutes or hours. You’ll see how great it makes you feel! ��

Men’s Mental Health Matters.

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 00:15:02 GMT

CW: mentions of suicide, death, and substance abuse

Clarifying note: Both sex and gender exist on spectrums. In this blogpost, the use of the terms “male” and “female” are used to refer to the sex assigned at birth.

Telling people to “man up” is a thing of the past- men are facing increases in mental health related deaths at an alarming rate, and for the general public, it’s going undetected and overlooked. Why?

Staggering statistics

Surveys from across the globe reveal that there is a prevalence of men suffering from mental illnesses but are reluctant to get help.

Mental Health America (MHA) reported that mental health professionals diagnose depression more often in women than in men, but more than 6 million American men experience symptoms of depression annually — and most go undiagnosed. One reason can be that men’s symptoms of depression can manifest differently compared to females. Males may show increased levels of anger, aggression, and irritability, as opposed to low mood in females. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) reports that males are more likely to see a doctor for physical symptoms as opposed to emotional symptoms, a reason why depression may go undiagnosed.

In 2021, men died by suicide 3.90 times more than women, additionally being 3 times more likely to die as consequence of alcohol abuse.

Societal pressure

Men are thought to be deterred from engaging in mental health services because of the need to conform to traditional masculine gender roles. These consist of invulnerability, stereotypes of stoicism, and self-reliance. None of which fit comfortably with help-seeking, especially when it comes to mental health needs. This has been enforced throughout history through norms such as telling boys to “man up” when they show signs of being upset, or the saying “boys will be boys” which justifies inappropriate and sometimes abusive behavior. There is not one way to be a boy, or one way to be a girl. If a man were to fail to align with these enforced gender roles, it can result in the internalizing of discriminative views imposed by society, which further discourage men from seeking help.

A Certain Type of Masculinity

A term that describes conforming to traditional gender roles is “toxic masculinity” where there is a need to aggressively compete to dominate others to encompass the societal pressure of the tendencies of men. The impacts of toxic masculinity seemingly have no bounds, however none of which are healthy. In terms of mental health, toxic masculinity dictates that negative emotions in men are perceived as a sign of weakness. This discourages men from reaching out to friends, family, or professionals, and therefore negatively impacts men’s overall help-seeking behaviors. Due to stigma and societal norms, men displaying traits of toxic masculinity are unable to express themselves or emotional needs and in the long run can lead to feelings of isolation, unhappiness, and poor health.

So although mental health is a core component of overall wellness, for a lot of men, it is routinely overlooked in favor of physical health in order to be presented as strong and capable. Kevin Hines, a suicide attempt survivor and public speaker expressed, "Men are so focused on the ideal of masculinity and how they have to appear to be, we forget to cry. We forget to be emotional, to show vulnerability, to show pain."

Rebuilding and Rebranding

The opposite of toxic masculinity is deemed “healthy masculinity” and is the idea where men feel as though they can be emotionally expressive without the fear of being judged. The Good Men Project, a website that thrives to highlight stories of what it means to be a good men, states that there are four pillars of healthy masculinity:

expression (yang): “It’s the physical, felt confidence of the ability to penetrate any situation with our consciousness… the knowledge that you can and will bring your truth to the situation, that you will be received, that your truth will compete with other truths, and that you will guide and control the course of events based on your desire and particular wisdom.”
surrender (yin): “It is the opposite of the first. It’s the capacity to surrender, and to have the confidence of knowing you will be taken care of… [surrender yourself] not in a defeated or brooding way, but in an open, unconcerned, relaxed way.”
boundary (yang): “How to set boundaries, in real time—how to knock down threats big and small, as they occur…The ability to say no, without needing to apologize for the fact that it might sting—this is an aspect of healthy masculine empowerment.”
union (yin): “the ability to relax your boundaries. It’s the ability to let down your guard, to feel, and to be felt by another…requires you to have the confidence to be vulnerable by knowing that if something threatening were to happen, you would be able to quickly set a boundary.”

Additionally as a society, we need to step up, and hold ourselves accountable. There has been a long history of sayings, behaviors, and gender roles that influence and validate toxic masculinity and it has to stop. A few ways we are able to emphasize healthy masculinity is by confidently addressing disrespect and misconceptions, encouraging and supporting men to express emotions freely, listening to experiences, validating feelings, and genuinely and intentionally checking in with male friends and loved ones.

Important takeaways

As with everything else we may need to unlearn as individuals or as a society, it’s not an easy feat, and it will take some time. However, baby steps are still steps in the right direction, and we need to stay strong and confident in the fight to break down gender roles and stereotypes. Additionally, suicide is serious but preventable. Some warning signs in yourself or others may consist of: increase in talking about suicide, feeling hopeless, having no motivation or reason to live, feeling like a burden to others, increase of substance use, withdrawal from family, friends or activities, sleeping too much or too little, saying final goodbyes, and or irritability, depression, anger or anxiety. Contrary to popular belief, asking a person about suicide does not increase the risk of committing suicide, but rather can save a life. If yourself or someone you know needs help, please call the suicide prevention lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or visit http: //suicidepreventionlifeline.org

Play: It’s Pretty Powerful

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 00:11:01 GMT

What looks like just fun and games is playing a huge role in a child’s brain development.

Introduction

“Play is behavior that looks as if it has no purpose,” says NIH psychologist Dr. Stephen Suomi. “It looks like fun, but it actually prepares [kids] for a complex social world.” Play is a child’s number one job. It may look like it’s just “playing around” as the name implies, but it is so crucial for their development.

In a 2017 survey, 42 percent of parents shared that their kids play four to six days per week, 30 percent play one to three days per week, 24 percent play every day and four percent claim their children do not play at all. The benefits of play are applicable to all ages, but there is definitely a period where it is most crucial… the critical period.

“Play is one of the main ways that children really consolidate their learning. The way we really make our skills permanent and enriched and highly developed, is often through our play experiences.” —Doris Bergen, a professor at Miami University’s Department of Educational Psychology

Play creates new neural networks and reinforces them. These physical changes in brain structure are what enable learning and growth to occur, known as neuroplasticity. Play plays a huge role in this!

If Play is Physical Activity

When play is physical activity too, such as playing sports or tag outside, it has so many additional benefits. For starters, it helps children build their physical development: fine and gross! Having to make big movements helps them build their gross motor development, such as if they are running around. They can build their hand-eye-coordination as they work to catch and throw a ball. Children are also building their fine motor development as they grasp things while they play, such as picking up smaller items.

In addition to all of this, physical activity has sooooooo many benefits on the developing brain, or any brain! Check out our physical activity blog post for more info! It can prevent neurodegenerative decline and improve mental health significantly - and just make you feel good!! The benefits of physical activity are definitely inside and out!

Language Development

When play includes a verbal aspect- whether it’s playing pretend or just talking and conversing while playing, it can help children build their language skills significantly!

Children’s vocabulary builds as they play. They may learn new names for different nouns or learn new verbs that describe what they are doing and seeing. When kids are playing with their caregivers for example, those adults can help foster that growing language development by prompting them to use new words.

Social Development

Playing often incorporates many social skills, especially when kids are playing in groups often. Through these group activities, they must share with others, problem solve, and build their communication skills. They learn many social norms and expectations as they play and must resolve conflicts with others as they arise. On top of all of this, the children playing develop a sense of responsibility and empathy towards others. Social activities provide children with instant feedback on how they are communicating with others. They gain a better understanding of expression, body language, and how their actions affect others. It can also make them more confident!

As problems arise, not only do children learn to solve them effectively, they also must regulate their emotions while doing so. As extreme frustration may build up, they learn to effectively regulate these emotions as they play more and their brains develop.

These skills build over time and through active application, such as playing with others, this development can be catalyzed.

Takeaways: The Benefits of Play

As play is consistently replaced with more screen time and recess time is jeopardized in many schools across the country for more instruction time, we must remind ourselves that so much learning and joy comes from those moments of play.

How to talk about mental health

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 00:06:36 GMT

We all have mental health. It’s something that we need to nurture and take care of, just like our physical health! So, in a society full of stigma and misinformation, how exactly should we talk about mental health, in a way that doesn’t emphasize the criticism and fear society has put on it? Here’s some steps on how to normalize conversations around mental health!

Don’t hesitate!

From the moment you know you want to, or should, bring up a topic in mental health in a conversation, say it confidently! If you show hesitance, or speak quietly, that emphasizes the idea that it’s taboo. There’s nothing to be ashamed about, regardless of what topic you’re bringing up. Mental health is universal! Don’t be shy.

Educate yourself and others

Make sure you can recognize when yourself or others may be spreading false information in regards to topics in mental health, as this only furthers stigma. Educating yourself can look like reading research articles, looking up topics in mental health you're interested in, posting facts on social media, and much more! Additionally, it’s important to call others out when you know they’re spreading misinformation. Educating yourself allows you to more easily identify stigmatizing language and gently teach others.

It’s been proven that the best way to educate yourself is to spend time with friends or family living with a mental illness. In this way, you are able to see exactly how you can help them and learn from their stories and experiences.

Say this, not that!

A big influence and cause of the stigma towards mental health is the language that surrounds it. Saying a person “suffers” from anxiety is a lot more harmful than saying a person “lives” with anxiety. This is because the word “suffers” implies that the person with anxiety is constantly not strong enough to handle it, that the anxiety defines them and their life. on the other hand, the word “lives” implies that the person is strong enough to coexist and manage their anxiety in a way that allows them to meet the needs of their mental illness while integrating their passions and daily life. Simple word changes such as this can go a long way, and being sure to call out others who you may notice still use stigmatizing wording can aid in the effort to make destigmatizing language more universally known and used! Although it may be annoying at first, It always pays off to be conscious of language!

Encourage equality between physical and mental health.

Reevaluate how yourself or others treat people with cancer, or diabetes, and compare that to how they may treat people with depression or OCD. We need to be wary of the way we perceive and treat people with illness, regardless of whether its physical or mental. You would never want to discredit a person’s journey with their illness, and we should strive to be supportive throughout their journeys. Mental health treatment is also as equal and essential as physical health treatment, and is something we should normalize! Be honest when you may need it, or when you want to learn more about it. It is extremely helpful and can be utilized by everyone, regardless of whether or not someone may have a mental illness!

Prioritize all types of rest

In addition, in America there is an emphasis and glorification of the “grind” in society that contributes to overworking, which can be extremely toiling for those living with a mental illness. Taking a break is so essential in order to get physical rest, but also mental and emotional rest! the glorification of the grind can lead to over exhaustion, sleep deprivation, burn out, and most of all, the worsening of mental illness. be wary to reevaluate the ways you prioritize rest, and how to nourish your mental health as well as your physical health.

Be honest

If you see yourself needing or wanting to seek out treatment, don’t shy away from it. Taking the step towards it is one step towards normalizing it. Be confident, honest when you need help, and proud that you are taking action to nurture your health.

Conclusion

It’s a long journey for the stigma around mental health to die down. However, the steps listed above are extremely essential in the goal to minimize it. Even baby steps in the right direction help the cause, and always remember to ask when you are unsure and educate yourself before taking action.

Mentorship Matters: Role Models Can Change Your Life

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 00:01:17 GMT

Who are your greatest mentors?

Growing up you may have had that one teacher, older sibling, parent, or family friend that you could always look up to. It was great, right?!

With experience comes wisdom, and when we find those who may have more experience, it can change the trajectory of our lives - even from a mental health or neurological standpoint.

Why mentorship matters

Mentors enable us to see ourselves in someone who has already completed a path we may hope to pursue. They serve as role models, paving the way for others to follow. We can look up to mentors in a way that pushes us to pursue our goals. Oftentimes, mentors will tell us we are capable when we don’t think so ourselves.

Most importantly, mentors, especially when genuine and authentic, serve as a reminder of the true nature of hard work. While we can see the results of the hard work, we can also see the progress and rocky roads that got them there.

Oftentimes role models can shift our perspective into new values. The daily beliefs and values we hold are so integral to who we are. And we are greatly affected by the values that those around us have - especially when it’s someone we look up to!

Role models can also serve as examples of the importance of community engagement and social work. They may serve as a catalyst for change and push us to do the same. When we see ourselves in role models it can really boost our confidence and self-esteem too!

Any Mental Health Benefits?

Research has demonstrated that the mental health decline during the pandemic could be partially attributed to the sudden loss of role models for many youth, especially for vulnerable populations.

A study conducted by the University of Cambridge Judge Business found that mentoring reduced anxiety and depression, improving long-term mental health for both mentors and mentees. This was most true when mentors got to know their mentees as individuals and looked out for signs of isolation or anxiety. It can be hugely beneficial to receive mentorship, but the satisfaction of sharing your wisdom with others and serving as a mentor yourself is another huge benefit.

Additionally, a study published by Mentoring Canada states that young people who had a mentor growing up are 53% more likely to experience positive mental health than those who did not.

Let’s ask Jess H., the Psychometrist at NNG who cares deeply about this topic!

Jess shared: “It is important to make people passionate about the work they do so they are invested in the process.”

Also: check out her spotlight! https://www.newtonneuro.com/post/clinician-spotlight-jessica-hack

Takeaways

Mentorship is so impactful for both the mentee and mentor. These impacts can be tangibly felt both in and out of the workplace. Finding the opportunity to build these connections is so worthwhile.

The Comfort Zone: Let’s get out of it!

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 23:55:59 GMT

When was the last time you left your comfort zone?

We hear it all the time: How good it is to leave the comfort zone. What you may not realize is that your comfort zone may be a lot bigger than you think… so when you think you’re leaving your comfort zone you’re really just approaching the edges of it.

But how can we get to the outside of our comfort zone? And do so to the point that our comfort zone actually gets bigger. Because the bigger and bigger your comfort zone gets through those slightly uncomfortable experiences, the more long term, we’ll be comfortable with!! Cool, right?!

Right now, Where is your comfort zone?

Our comfort zone is not defined by just one thing. It’s not just about how likely we are to go bungee-jumping or how likely we are to go out on the dance floor when people are watching. All of our comfort zones are so different too! And it’s not just a matter of size. The activities and emotions that we are comfortable experiencing vary so much.

Benefits of breaking it

It can be hard to break out of it! Because the comfort zone is just so… (what’s the word?) comfortable! It’s where we feel safe. Where we feel we can oftentimes most be ourselves. And then we look outside beyond the comfort zone is, and that’s where it looks scary!!

There are SO MANY benefits for your wellbeing and mental health when it comes to leaving the comfort zone!

For example:

The prefrontal cortex (responsible for decision making) is tightly linked to the amygdala (responsible for fear and emotion). When we are making decisions to go outside our comfort zone, the fear we feel from our amygdala can prevent us from doing so. But the flip is true too! The more we go outside of our comfort zone, the less fear we will experience each time

Stepping outside your comfort zone can help you build confidence and increase your creativity

How can we do this?

One way to effectively break out of the comfort zone is to find something you are very comfortable with and then find a way to stretch it. Here’s how I did this: I love dancing, and I’ve danced for most of my life (since I was a toddler ��). So I stepped outside my comfort zone by trying hot yoga. It’s similar to dance in a way, but it definitely put me outside my comfort zone being in a room full of people, some of whom have done yoga for as long as I’ve danced, with sweat dripping all over our mats. And now, yoga is one of my favorite things and a way that I continue to push myself outside of my comfort zone.

Another great way to do so is if you’re in college. There might be a topic you are passionate about and it might be something that you find easier than something else. What classes can you take to challenge yourself?

Takeaways

It’s a balance for sure! Balancing going outside your comfort zone and not being too uncomfortable is important! Checking in with yourself often is a great way to manage this :)

The Growth Mindset: It’s kinda growing on me!

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 23:53:07 GMT

It’s not just a trend that’s used in classrooms! It’s something you can teach your kids and yourself … and SO worthwhile.

The term Growth Mindset was first coined by Stanford University psychology professor Carol Dweck in 2012.

It describes the idea that our skills and ability can constantly grow as we practice and gain more experience.

Kids are Learning About This!

I remember learning about the growth mindset in middle school. We were handed two brains, one with a big lock on it and the other with a plant inside, like the picture above. We wrote in different words that described each, such as “locked,” “improvement,” “progress,” and “stuck.” After writing in several words, we colored the fixed mindset exactly how the picture looked, and the growth one we got to draw however we wanted.

The point? To demonstrate that a growth mindset has room for what WE wanted. When we have a growth mindset, we have a say in where we end up. It is in our control, and we realize that.

The second we give up control (known in psychology as an external locus of control), we naturally grow.

The irony is that initially, it is in our control. We have a choice: do we believe in ourselves enough to grow, or will we place the blame on external factors and be fixed where we are: literally and figuratively?

Much of this is based on the Neuroscience ideas of Neuroplasticity, as mentioned in our recent blog and instagram posts. With experiences our brains undergo change at the cellular level, and neuronal pathways are built and strengthened. As our brains change, we change of course, so we can grow with experience.

How Can We Incorporate The Growth Mindset Into Our Lives?

It can be challenging sometimes. There’s this idea of cognitive flexibility or rigidity. And it’s exactly what it sounds like. Sometimes thinking flexibly is challenging. And even when it’s easy to be flexible in general, sometimes we’re so hard on ourselves that it’s harder to be flexible and understand ourselves than other people and scenarios.

However! There are things we can do. Having a growth mindset requires a growth mindset. It takes time to get there, and even when you feel you’re there, you can always grow more to gain more perspective toward a growth mindset :) I see growth mindsets as a spectrum. Make sense? So basically, even having a growth mindset requires a growth mindset - as does everything else!

Acquiring a growth mindset requires a lot of introspection and metacognition. Where are we now, and where do we want to be? We must be friendly and kind to ourselves and remind ourselves that misteaks mistakes are okay - as long as we learn from them �� Seeking feedback can be super helpful, as how we view ourselves may be different than how others do! They might be able to help guide us toward a growth mindset. We must focus on ourselves and think about how we view ourselves as what’s most important. We can get closer and closer to a growth mindset as we foster growth!

Takeaways

You got this! With some reflection on where you are and your values, you can reach that growth mindset!

Clinician Spotlight: Dr. Kayvon Akbarian

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 23:49:28 GMT

In our ongoing series 'Clinician Spotlight', we learn more about all the amazing clinicians here at Newton Neuropsychology Group. In this installment, we sit with Dr. Kayvon Akbarian to learn more about him!

What do you hope clients will gain from working with you?

Clarity and perspective. Those are the two words that come to mind. But each client is unique, not every client has a cookie cutter story, and I would hope for each of them to go away with a better understanding of their own unique needs. Based on what they tell me, I generally have a ballpark idea of what to look at, but I want to get to know them first, develop that trust and understanding so that we can see what I can truly focus on. I let the client guide me, and I meet them where they’re at.

It’s long winded for sure! I was in law school for a while, working with immigration. I worked with a lot of clients looking for political asylum, and within that I saw a lot of mental illness in those clients. Whether that be anxiety or depression, I really wanted to help them. But working in law was very third person, I couldn’t do very much. Within the firm I was with, I was guaranteed a position with my graduation but I wanted to work more with the mental health side of things. My mentor really helped me take that leap towards something I'd be happier with! Going to law school really highlighted how I want to help people mentally, and in a way, without attending law school, I wouldn’t have been able to see that.

What drew you to this field?

What parts of your work do you enjoy the most?

Just being present with the client or clients, hearing their stories, being a support or guide, helping them reach their own answers. I also enjoyed supervising at my old placement. Teaching and overseeing more people in the field. Just being able to answer all of their questions about therapy, how to write therapy notes. When a client gave me permission, I would let the undergrad I was supervising shadow me. I really enjoyed being able to show him how I would go about caring for a patient but at the end of the day saying that there are still a lot more ways other people would do it. But being able to share my techniques with him was great

What are you most proud of about yourself and what you have accomplished?

Outside of work, what brings you joy?

Reading, exercise, I’m an avid sports fan (pats, bruins, Celtics, Yankees), and breathing life into old cars.

Some quotes that mean a lot to Dr. Akbarian:

"The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination." - Carl Rogers

"I think sometimes in life the biggest challenges end up being the best things that happen in your life." - Tom Brady

Finding a profession where I can really focus on helping others. And having received positive feedback from former and current clients. And being able to work and navigate through various settings in the mental health field.

Clinician Spotlight: Dr. Kayvon Akbarian

Brain Food: Fuel Your Cognition

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 23:38:47 GMT

What you eat affects your cognition!

Food doesn’t go to your brain: even if you eat upside down. But, the nutrients totally do! Super quick recap from high school bio: when you eat, your body turns those macromolecules into ATP: the main form of energy currency in the body. While your brain is only 2% of your body mass it actually uses 20% of your body’s energy. 1/5 of ATP from food is going up to your brain!

However, it’s important to note that it’s not just the amount of what we eat that’s important, it’s what exactly we’re eating that gives our brains the nutrients it needs! Note that the blood brain barrier (BBB) is pretty restrictive on what can enter the brain, so the nutrients themselves can’t enter, but the nutrients may be precursors for other molecules that can!

Nutrients → Neurotransmitters

What are neurotransmitters? Neurotransmitters are the chemicals that our brain uses to send messages from one neuron to another! They are SO important and we can't live or function without them.

Here are some examples of the Nutrient-neurotransmitter connection!

Omega-3s fatty acids, considered one of the “healthy fats” actually helps dopamine signaling! Dopamine is responsible for a lot of our ability to sense reward, pleasure, satisfaction, and be motivated! Omega-3’s increase dopamine levels by increasing the D2 (one of the dopamine) receptor bindings in the prefrontal cortex and striatum regions of the brain!! The benefit that Omega-3s have in increasing dopamine levels is actually not too different from a lot of dopamine-increasing medications. How cool is that!!

→ Foods that are high in Omega-3s include fish, avocado, walnuts & chia seeds

Vitamin D is linked to serotonin: one of the feel good neurotransmitters. Low levels of serotonin is often associated with depression-like symptoms. Likewise, low levels of vitamin D is often associated with low levels of serotonin. While it’s pretty easy to get vitamin D from the sun in the summer, a lot of this comes from nutrition or supplements if your doctor recommends them.

→ Foods rich in Vitamin D include egg yolks, dairy, tuna, & fortified orange juice

Tryptophan is a precursor to serotonin, so it is another way to increase serotonin levels! Tryptophan is found in a lot of foods and can help you feel refreshed. Again, not an end-all-be-all and all our brains are different, but tryptophan-rich foods can increase those serotonin levels in the synapses!

→ foods that are rich in tryptophan include dairy, chicken, egg whites, fish, nuts

B vitamins are crucial for brain functioning - for a lot of reasons! Vitamin B is thought to play a role in dementia prevention. While it is not always the culprit: many individuals with memory and concentration problems have low levels of vitamin B, and increasing B12 levels can often help combat these problems. Vitamin B can even help repair nerve fibers.

→ vitamin B-rich foods include whole grain, legumes, poultry, fish, & leafy green

Magnesium is known to have some great benefits on learning and memory! This is because it increases the rate of neuroplasticity - the way in which new paths are formed between neurons (synapses) in the brain! More neuroplasticity means more learning! Magnesium can also lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone.

→ magnesium rich foods include nuts, legumes, whole grains, and dark veggies

Myths about food and the brain

There are loads of myths when it comes to nutrition and brain health, many of which run rampant online.

Here are some examples

MYTH: Consuming more sugar optimizes brain function

TRUTH: While the brain does need glucose to optimize its function, too much sugar is

detrimental to the brain the same way it is to the rest of the body

2. MYTH: Fish will make you a genius!

TRUTH: Many of us have heard this one before but it’s a bit of an exaggeration and

based on the omega-3s. While Omega-3s are linked to slightly better performance

and optimize brain function, it’s not going to necessarily make you “smarter” the way

the myth might share.

3. MYTH: Superfoods can cure neurological disorders

TRUTH: Foods that are dense in brain-benefiting nutrients may help prevent

neurological disorders but it is not a “cure” and not an end-all-be-all.

4. MYTH: Caffeine, energy drinks, or other natural stimulants can optimize brain

functioning

TRUTH: Everyone’s brain works differently. While for some individuals, caffeine can

help with focus and alertness, for others, it can lead to lowered sleep quality and

increased anxiety levels.

For Kids and Adults!

These debunked myths and nutrient → neurotransmitters tidbits of information are applicable to everyone, regardless of their age! While the exact mechanisms will differ, this information can be useful to anyone!

These are just some examples of the nutrients that are good for your brain, and there are so many more!

It can be hard to keep track of which foods are rich in which nutrients but a good rule of thumb is the more diverse the foods that you’re eating, the more likely you are to hit all your nutrients for your brain!

Creative Cognition: Unraveling the Neural Basis of Innovation

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 23:33:54 GMT

You’re probably much more creative than you think. Albert Einstein said, “Creativity is intelligence having fun.”

What is Creativity, Like Actually?

Less than half of individuals in the United States consider themselves creative. We set an unreasonable norm of what “creativity” actually is. Is it really about being able to create a beautiful abstract painting? Does “creativity” require writing eloquent song lyrics and poems? Is it true that less than half of us are creative or do we as individuals not believe in our creative potential? Most people are able to create something that has not been created before; meanwhile, “creative” is not a word many of us would use to describe ourselves. Oxford describes creativity as: “ the imagination or original ideas, especially in the production of an artistic work.” How can we take this definition and apply it outside of the way we might see it?

Well, Engineers must create innovative ideas that have not been created before in order to receive patents. You can’t just copy something someone else has done and expect to be considered “new!"

Medical Researchers must think outside of the box in order to find life-saving treatments to disorders. Many diseases or disorders that existed years ago are less of a concern to the creativity of clinical researchers.

Classroom teachers require creative ways to manage classroom behavior in an effective way. Lessons must be formed creatively to keep students engaged!

In everyday moments when we require problem solving, and out-of-box ideas lead to our success. Being able to think creatively is often considered “Divergent Thinking:” Thinking that deviates from a norm. How does one reach this in order to unlock their creative potential?

Let’s think about the Brain

The frontal cortex (you probably guessed, located in the front of the brain) has been considered the location of creativity for a LONG time. It is responsible for executive functioning and working memory, two functions that play a large role in creating those innovative ideas.

The hippocampus is where a lot of learning and memory takes place. We use our past experiences when we’re problem solving or coming up with innovative ideas. These past experiences stem from our declarative memory, mostly located in the Hippocampus.

The Cingulate Cortex is partially responsible for our sense of reward and punishment and emotional responses which is related to our ability and motivation to think creatively.

The thalamus is our brain’s relay station. It takes in all of the sensory information from the spinal cord and sends it to the right region of the brain to be analyzed and understood. New research has demonstrated that it is actually crucial for creativity due to the way that sensory information impacts creative cognition.

Nature & Nurture

Creativity is partially genetic. The apple that doesn't fall far from the tree is likely to apply here. Your parents are creative? You’re more likely to be creative. But this is not an end-all-be-all exclusively true statement.

With experience, our brains change (thanks to a process known as neuroplasticity!) The space between the neurons called the synapse is where messages are relayed, and the more times those messages are relayed, the stronger that chemical connection becomes! The more we harness our creativity, the stronger that function becomes due to literal changes in brain structure…. Oooo ahhh! Due to this, experience has a role in our creativity just as much so as genetics. Neuroplasticity is strongest when we are younger, but we are able to unlock this key function throughout our entire life, and heavily rely on it all of the time!

The more you push yourself outside your comfort zone to be creative, the more your brain will be able to push itself outside of its comfort zone to be creative!

Takeaways

There are so many ways to find that creativity within us, and how this looks is different for everyone. Creativity is applicable to every part of our life. Things as simple as mindfulness, physical activity, sleep, and nutrition make us more creative because of how they affect our brains. Daydreaming and using our (as SpongeBob says) Imaginaaaation make us that much more creative. When you’re in need of a solution, challenging yourself to find a more out-of-box answer itself can strengthen these skills.

And remember, you’re probably more creative than you think ��

Homework Happens! How Can We Help Our Kids Create a Productive Environment?

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 23:09:19 GMT

Remember those days at the kitchen table working on math problems with eraser shreds everywhere?

Homework can be challenging: both to start and complete. The environment we work in though makes a huge difference!

It takes a nice growth mindset, time management skills, and mentorship to be most successful!

Executive Functioning Implications

Let’s first talk about what executive functioning is! Executive Functioning is defined as “the collection of cognitive skills (inhibition, working memory updating, task-set switching, attention) that give rise to goal-directed behavior (Science direct). Many of these tasks are localized largely (not entirely though) to the prefrontal cortex. It makes sense. Homework requires a lot of these cognitive skills. Without task-set switching, we can’t move on to the next task or homework problem. Without attention, we can’t focus on the homework we are doing. Working memory enables us to hold onto key information while using it when we do homework. Inhibition prevents us from acting on our impulse like getting up to do something else or checking our phone.

When executive functioning challenges arise, it can be very challenging to get that homework done! Executive functioning skills don’t fully develop until the prefrontal cortex is developed in the mid 20s, and then they can be strengthened beyond that. Therefore, for kids, those skills aren’t fully developed leading to greater challenges getting things done. On top of that, some kids have larger executive functioning difficulties than others. This could be due to typical variations or weaknesses, or due to a difference such as ADHD or Executive Function Disorder.

The Environment Makes a Big Difference on Homework

When the brain can’t serve entirely as an “executive” to help control and maintain focus to get things done… it may require external control. This could be supplied with a caregiver or mentor or structures and systems put into place. Positive reinforcement can work really well, as well as schedules and set times for getting things done. Even a timer can be super helpful. There is also the Pomodoro Method which uses a certain set of time for work with breaks in between based on a timer.

The environment plays a large role. Distraction-reduced environments are super helpful, as it is harder to get distracted if there are fewer distracting things.

Takeaways

When getting things done is challenging, remember that the executive is in control! When the executive isn’t optimally functioning, external systems can be put in place.

Best of luck! You got this!

The impacts of stress

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 23:06:57 GMT

From work, to school, to family, to friends, nearly all aspects of our lives can cause us a bit of stress at times. Is this bad? Is this normal? And what exactly happens when we start to worry for a little too long?

What is stress, exactly?

Stress is the reaction to situations we perceive to be threatening. This can be changes in lifestyle, news, or health and can be both positive and negative where people can get stress from marriages, births, or academic excellence, or financial worries, job complications, or medical concerns.

Our bodies are actually equipped to handle stress in small doses, but once it becomes long term or frequent, stress affects all systems of the body, and can become detrimental if not kept in check. Psychologically, how does it affect us?

Mechanisms - how do our nervous systems cope?

To handle small bouts of stress, the nervous system utilizes all its divisions to aid the body, but specifically, the mechanisms of the autonomic nervous system. The autonomic nervous system is responsible for the automatic function of our body like breathing, heart beat, blood pressure, etc. It consists of the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions that play a critical role in the face of stress.

You’ve heard of flight or fight? Your sympathetic nervous system (SNS) is responsible for that shifting of energy to allow your body to respond to danger by either preparing to flee (flight) or taking on warding off a threat (fight). The SNS does this by signaling the adrenal glands to release the hormones adrenaline (epinephrine) and cortisol which work together with automatic nerves to make your heart beat faster, blood vessels to dilate, digestive processes to take the backseat, and respiration rates to increase, among other things. This response happens very quickly in order to prepare the body for danger, and short term stressors. Once the time of emergency is over, the peripheral nervous system (PNS) takes control and counteracts the changes of the SNS, bringing the body back down to base level. The nervous system works hard for the body to be able to deal with stressors, but the problem lies within facing stress over a long period of time. This can result in a long-term drain on the body as the autonomic nervous system tries desperately to compensate. Regular stressors force the SNS and PNS to regularly continue to trigger and calm the emergency responses of the body, it causes a wear and tear of the body, leaving it with decreased immunity, and other matriculations of problems.

Stressed out symptoms

Stress can manifest in a person psychologically as irritation, aggression, feelings of hopelessness, loss of control, insomnia, fatigue, sadness, and memory problems, and the list goes on. Continued stress can lead to the worsening or maturation of problems such as burnout, anxiety, or depression. If a person goes through an intense period of trauma, it could lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

What should we do?

The levels of stress vary from person to person, but we should strive to keep one thing constant, which is the awareness of yourself and how you may react with stress. Analyzing and understanding how you feel or felt about a specific situation could be able to identify triggers that can cause stress and be able to help manage stress, and increases quality of life and aids mental health.

Stress be gone!: Management techniques

The first step when tackling a lot of things is an understanding, stress is no different! Starting with an understanding of what can cause you stress allows you to find ways to prevent or reduce it. For example, reevaluating relationships that bring more irritation than joy, delegating more tasks to colleagues at work, or taking more time to rest.

But the thing is, since stress and its stressors vary from person to person, it’s a matter of perception. This means that for a thing to become a stressor, it relies on how a person perceives it. So another tactic to manage stress is to rework how you view things. When you learn to downplay various situations or accept things out of your control you can now divert your attention to concrete action and response to situations, rather than worrying or getting caught up in stress. Of course, this may be easier said than done, and help from a specialist, such as a therapist, could be useful in aiding a person reframe the way they perceive stressful situations.

Along with the mental aspect of tackling stress, it’s also helpful to be able to partake in some activities that aid in taking stressors away. For instance, indulging in hobbies such as arts and crafts, or reading, can take your mind off stressors and relax. Even reading thrillers can help you reduce stress! When you read a thriller, your heart beats faster, your muscles get tense, and you’re on high alert (… uhhh this doesn’t sound stress free) it’s actually what happens AFTER reading the thriller that causes the stress reduction mechanisms, where once you’re done reading, your brain is able to take a deep breath, relax those muscles, and get that heart rate back to baseline. (oh thank goodness) This returning back to baseline is what provides the stress relieving mechanisms that help you relax down the line.

Additionally, physical activity like exercise, running, walking, biking, and much more, has numerous benefits for your health both physically and mentally! The expanding of energy allows you to release stress and actually remodels the way our brains think, where it increases and rewrites the neurotransmitters that make us happy, dopamine and serotonin, causing them to fire more frequently. This makes us happier, and the more you exercise, the longer the effects will be!

Unconscious mental imagery: let’s dream about it!

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 23:03:39 GMT

Sleep is wonderful, beneficial, necessary, and honestly? A little weird! (see our blogpost outlining the benefits of sleep here. The weird thing about sleep is that mental imagery that we experience: dreams! Dreams are one of the things that isn’t fully understood by psychologists, however studies argue that they are tied with our mental health- that they are in some ways connected! Let’s dream about this possibility together:

Why do we dream?

Dreaming usually happens during REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, associated with creating long term memories, learning, and overall brain development. Again, there’s not a clear conclusion of why we dream, but some theories are as such:

Sigmund Freud, “father of psychoanalysis” argued that dreams were the mind’s opportunity to fulfill unconscious desires or wishes, allowing people to express things not appropriate during the day.
Another theory suggests that we dream to store memories. It’s argued that dreams help strengthen new memories, integrate them with old ones, and allow the brain to process and understand emotions, leading to storage of emotional memories.
More recently it's been suggested that dreams are what help the brain apply knowledge learned from past experience to the present, a process called generalizing. This theory additionally argues that because dreams are often out of the ordinary, it allows the brain to shift from memorizing details of a person's day to broadening their perspectives.
and lastly, some psychologists conclude that there’s actually no function to dreaming at all! They argue that dreaming is a feature of the sleeping brain that pulls memories and knowledge from the day with no necessary need.

Affects

the effects of dreams vary from person to person, where each person sees the importance of dreams differently. For example, some people value their dreams and strive to remember them, in order to interpret any meaning from them that could potentially inform their day to day lives.

In a more scientific sense, dreaming seems to be associated with the same parts of the brain that are in charge of regulating emotions, which lead to the belief that there is a connection between dreams and mental well being. This can be supported with the argument that emotions from dreams carry onto mood for the following day.

Some research suggests that people with mental health conditions experience dreams and nightmares more frequently, but the severity of certain mental health conditions may relate to how they react to them rather than how often they may experience them.

Nightmares

The spooky side of mental imagery during sleep, nightmares, are frightening dreams that cut a person’s sleep short. This causes people’s sleep quality to be negatively affected, and what’s worse is that nightmares are much easier to recall than dreams, negatively affecting mood for the following day. Nightmares could become frequent after a personal loss, substance withdrawal, during periods of stress, or after a traumatic experience.

At worst case scenarios, frequent nightmares plague as many as 20% of children and 6% of adults, leading to the potential diagnosis of a nightmare disorder, where persistent nightmares make it difficult to get through the day.

Mental health conditions with associated uptick in bad dreams:

Depression - increased risk of bad dreams and nightmares, twice as often as those without depression. People experiencing depression tend to enter REM sleep more quickly, potentially a reason for the increase in nightmares.
Anxiety - additionally associated with nightmares, at times they are so frequent they are deemed “dream anxiety attacks”. Those experiencing generalized anxiety disorder also report having regular bad dreams and nightmares.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) - nightmares are a defining feature of PTSD, where a person experiencing PTSD may relive a traumatic episode through many ways, with dreaming and nightmares being one of the most prominent. PTSD dreams often contain emotions felt during traumatic experiences.
Psychosis & Schizophrenia - It’s often argued that dreams and psychosis could potentially be closely related, where they share underlying mechanisms. Over half of people experiencing psychotic disorders may also experience persistent nightmares. Those experiencing schizophrenia, a psychotic disorder, tend to have more bizarre dreams, and may struggle to differentiate dreams and reality.

Conclusions

Currently, the phenomenon of dreaming is still being researched and debated on. Regardless of that, if you find yourself being concerned about frequency or content of dreams, having trouble sleeping, or unexpected changes in mood, don’t hesitate to reach out to a doctor or mental health professional!

And if you don’t experience a mental health condition, seeing a mental health professional could still improve your mental health and well being overall, potentially leading to more pleasant dreams.

How to be emotionally responsible!

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 22:56:02 GMT

Remember this one thing: you are not responsible for anyone’s emotions. So how do we respond when someone blames us for how they’re feeling? Or when they get mad for seemingly no reason at us? Let’s explore emotional accountability/responsibility together

Why should we be emotionally responsible?

When you feel things you don’t particularly want to feel: sadness, anger, etc, you don’t want to keep them, right? What many people do in response to those negative emotions is to place them on others. Getting angry or finding ways to equate strong emotions with actions of another person is called “emotional projection” and it is a type of defense mechanism.

Not to worry- everyone has had experiences with this, we likely learned it in adolescence! However, if this pattern remains unchecked, it could lead to problems such as decreases in self worth, unhealthy relationships, and poor communication and coping strategies. Additionally, your mental health can take a hit as well, where emotional projection can lead to insecure attachment styles and a negative outlook on the interactions you have with others.

How do we do this?

The one thing you truly have control over is your own emotions. Think about a time someone tried to change someone else's opinion. How’d it go? Usually, it’s a long process filled with heated conversation and at worst, arguments and frustration. At the end of the day, the first step at becoming emotionally responsible is coming to terms with having limited control over others, how they feel, their beliefs, etc. This is a good set up to disengage from feelings of guilt for how others are feeling and potentially saving yourself from arguments.

But remember, our actions do have consequences. In addition to knowing the little control we have over the feelings of others, know the amount of control we have over our actions. You don’t know how your actions could affect others so show up for others when they need it, and lead by example and with compassion.

No one is a mind reader!

The way we use our words is powerful. It’s good practice to explain to others when their actions have caused you negative feelings. However, to be emotionally responsible, you must do it in a way that doesn’t blame the other person. Using “I” statements is a great way to do so! For example, saying “I feel upset when you don’t respond to me”.

But don’t stop there! Continue these statements by stating your needs to be able to help the person be able to understand how to better help you. For example, saying “I feel upset when you don’t respond to me, would you please send me a text and update me from time to time?” This allows for an open line of communication and a space where everyone can share their needs and perspective. It prevents misunderstandings from happening and by clearly stating one’s needs; it limits assumptions and jumping to conclusions from happening.

Do some self reflection

We must take care to know the impact of our own thoughts. Your feelings are valid, especially when the actions of others may have hurt you, however analyzing your thoughts can reveal problematic ways of thinking. For example, if someone is late to a meeting, some may think in extremes, “all or nothing” thinking. “I always have bad days, no one is ever reliable” thoughts like this can lead to a decrease in self esteem, compassion, and unhealthy relationships.

When you are hurt from another person’s actions, feel your feelings however challenge whether they’re based on reality or blown out of proportion. Try to be as objective as possible and reevaluate the impacts of your thoughts, grounding yourself. Care for your mind, own up to when your thoughts are unrealistic and train yourself to calm your thoughts in order to be grounded in reality.

It’s okay to be wrong

We all make mistakes, but emotional projection makes it so that we can come up with a million excuses to make it seem like it truly wasn’t our own fault; however, to be emotionally responsible is to own up to your mistakes. Take a few deep breaths, center yourself, and apologize for when you’ve wronged someone. It will help create a trusting relationship and an open line of communication. Putting this into practice can help make becoming emotionally responsible easier.

Putting an emphasis on self care could also help with combating emotional projection. Self care could reveal different, more healthy ways to be able to cope with difficult feelings rather than emotional projection that could help create a better foundation for relationships and coping strategies.

This is a long process!

Don’t expect this to happen overnight! Unlearning things are much easier said than done and it's a long process that takes practice and intentionality. Don’t get discouraged when you forget a few steps or could have approached a situation differently. Just remember that baby steps in the right direction are still steps forward! Be proud of your achievements big and small.

Wake up and smell the roses… seriously: the nurturing aspects of nature!

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 22:49:49 GMT

“Go out and smell the roses,” “Go touch some grass,” “get some fresh air,” is what they always say. But… who are they? and why do I have to go outside? Should I actually go outside? Turns out, there are actually some pretty hefty benefits from stepping out into the green. Here is the breakdown of the lucrative benefits of nature on mental health!

There’s a term for that!

Biophilia hypothesis is the idea where humans have evolved alongside nature that led to have a natural affinity for it. Directly translating to “love for life,” it is argued that there is an innate need to be in close contact and communion with life, whether that be nature, animals, or plants. This hypothesis is based on two theories: The first is Attention Restoration Theory (ART) where the overstimulation of the modern world causes mental fatigue and therefore a depleted capacity to direct attention. In turn, this means that the calming characteristics of nature are able to restore that capacity. The second is Stress Reduction Theory (SRT), where spending time in nature influences certain feelings and emotions that lessen stress by activating the parasympathetic nervous system, meaning the elimination or lessening of the flight or fight mechanisms.

Stay close to the trees

Whether or not this hypothesis is proven, various research has shown a plethora of the benefits that nature has on our bodies and minds.

Just being in proximity to greenery can provide immense benefits for mental health. For example, green spaces near schools were found to promote cognitive development in children. Additionally, If children are able to view a green space from their home, it can promote self controlling behaviors. For adults it is similar, where adults living in neighborhoods with more green spaces showed improved attentional control, working memory, and cognitive flexibility, as opposed to those living with less green space. It was found that those living in urban environments were linked to attention deficits. Living around green spaces for an extended amount of time also has been seen to reduce risk for psychiatric disorders such as depression, schizophrenia, eating and substance disorders, among others. In fact, the risk is 55% higher for those living in an urban setting.

Feel the feelings!

Beyond cognition and production, nature is additionally able to assist in emotional regulation and provides existential benefits such as increasing happiness, well being, positive social interaction, sense of purpose in life, as well as decreasing mental distress.

Additionally, the level of connection people have with the natural environment can be measured on a scale, and is often called nature relatedness, connectedness to nature and inclusion of nature in self. A higher connectedness to nature correlates to an increase in benefits in mental health and mood. In fact, it leads to a greater eudaimonic wellbeing, which is the contentment with the motivation to do something meaningful. Connectedness to nature was found to be a significant predictor of happiness, in comparison to the connectedness between one’s friends or community.

How much time should I stay outside and be in nature?

It actually doesn’t take a lot of time for nature’s powers to affect us! Research has shown that only a few moments of looking at or even just listening to nature is able to perk up a tired mind, providing recuperative benefits to the demanding hustle and bustle of life. In order to get nature’s full benefits, there isn’t a proven specific amount of time we should strive to be outside for, however a study has shown that people who spent at least two hours in nature spread out or in one session in one week revealed significantly increased health and well being. This remained true across subgroups consisting of older adults and people with chronic health problems. There is much more research to be done to get a firm answer, but this is a step in the right direction of determining recommendations for how much time we should really spend in nature.

Key takeaways

It’s clear to see that nature is a clear asset to increasing well being and happiness. Ever since the dawn of time we have needed nature, and now more than ever, nature needs us. As our connectedness to nature increases, so does the urgency to protect and care for the earth. Go spend some time in nature today, allow yourself to feel its benefits and recuperative powers, and think about how we can give back to the earth that continues to help us so much.

Overnight Camp: It’s Got Some Brainy Benefits!

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 22:38:40 GMT

Sending your kids to overnight camp might seem like a fun vacation-like escape, but it has some enormous benefits for their brains! According to the Department of Education, about 1% of kids in the US go to overnight camps each summer. In 2020, 82% of overnight camps were closed, leading to even fewer kids going to overnight camps. Many of those who do go, however, report such incredible experiences that they return year after year and then maybe become counselors there!

The FUN!

Many camps are filled with various activities such as water skiing, paddle-boarding, tennis, arts and crafts, dance, and more! Many camps also allow campers to choose some activities they want to do more of through electives!

Overnight camps can provide kids with a sense of exploration and independence, especially since they are often located in adventurous environments filled with lakes or forests.

Campers meet many new friends and strengthen these relationships by living in a bunk with them. While kids often make friends at school or day camp, the time they’re spending with them is of course lower. At overnight camp, it’s pretty much 24/7! Campers spend so much time with their bunkmates that so many of these new relationships are strengthened - like in college when you get close with your friends because you spend so much time with them and live with them.

Many overnight camps also have many traditions and spirit, including talent shows, color wars, random chants, and camp-wide games that help build a sense of community and belonging.

Some things parents love, and kids eventually learn to love about overnight camp, is that most of them are technology free too! And don’t forget about all the lifelong memories and friendships formed! <3

The Brainy Benefits

Okay, so we’ve talked a lot about the fun benefits. But what does all this do for the brain? Well, many things!

First, a TON of physical activity is happening at camp… like a TON. Many kids are quickly getting 15,000+ steps a day at camp. They’re swimming laps in the pool, running bases in kickball, running from activity to activity, and much more! Physical activity has many neurological and mental health benefits (check out our physical activity blog post!), and escaping physical activity at an overnight camp is pretty hard. The best part is that this can become a long-term lifestyle beyond camp.

Overnight camps can also play a significant role in social and emotional development. There is TONS of social interaction - even during rest hours, sometimes at camp! It’s a very community and group-focused place. It can help kids gain a sense of empathy and truly understand the nature of the impact of how they treat others. They understand social responsibility through bunk cleanups and responsibilities throughout each day. They also are likely to gain a sense of resilience and emotional regulation, as the environment can be super supportive as the campers gain new out-of-comfort zone experiences, such as living away from home,

Something else that’s pretty awesome is that campers try so many new things daily!

Where to Start

If you’re interested in finding a camp for your kids, one of the best things you can do is ask around! Ask friends what camps they know and if they have sent their kids to camps.

Many camps will do “try for a day” like programs or do tours during the summer months to get a taste of what it would be like to send your kids there.

In addition to various financial aid options, many camps and outside organizations will also give early-bird discounts to families that register early and discounts to families that are first-timers!

put-your-person-first-using-person-centered-language

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 22:38:38 GMT

Humans are wonderful and amazing, each bringing the ir own unique skills, thoughts, feelin gs, and experiences to the table every day. At our cores though, we are just that; human. What language should we use to properly give justice to the differences in each individual?

What do we mean by this?

In the realm of mental health, there is a history of phased out jargon and buzzwords that just don’t fit anymore. A plethora of stigmatizing language has made it so prejudice is easy, and gaining a better understanding of particular illnesses or identities is becoming inaccessible. However, as the movement for better mental health care and more knowledgeable community increases, we are able to see the surfacing of more inclusive and informed jargon come to play.

Person vs. illness centered

Language is the first line of defense in terms of creating a destigmatizing and unprejudiced atmosphere. There is a high correlation between a persons’ self-image and identity with the words used to describe them, so we should take care to use proper language. The most basic implementation of person-centered language is knowing that people are not their illnesses. By placing the person at the center of attention, above all other aspects of their illnesses or treatments, we allow a person to maintain their sense of identity. For example, people are not schizophrenic or bipolar, they’re a person living with schizophrenia, or a person living with bipolar disorder. If you were to address or introduce someone as a schizophrenic, it’s difficult for a person to see past the fact that the person may experience psychosis or other symptoms of that illness. By referring to someone as schizophrenic, or leading with whatever illness they may be living with, it discredits the range of that person, their triumphs, passions, and other aspects of their lives. Branding someone as just their illness makes it seem like they have been taken prisoner to it. By using person-centered language we are able to know people as themselves, not their illnesses.

Words that can stunt the recovery process

There are common buzzwords that have been used to describe a persons’ actions that simply must go. Words like crazy, psycho, insane, etc, can be a detriment to a recovery process and further stigmatizing, especially when those using the words may be directed towards a person who doesn’t experience a mental health condition. Using these terms can increase stigma as knowing and using these terms are more common than actually knowing a person living with a mental health condition. With limited knowledge and prejudice, it limits people to associating mental illnesses with just their symptoms rather than their recoveries. Words like “suffering with” can be transformed into “living with” or “experiencing” and it immediately rewrites the narrative of someone being taken over by the mental condition they may experience, to empower them and give credit to their recovery process.

The power of recovery

The process of recovery is different for every single person, with different tactics and pathways of receiving it. You never want to discredit the battles that people may experience when receiving treatment, or continuing their journey of recovery. Recovery itself speaks to a person’s ability to change, thus focusing on their strengths rather than their symptoms, so person-centered language takes out the possibility of putting a person’s illness before them, and giving all the credit to their incredible journey of receiving any care they may need.

Takeaways

As mentioned earlier, a person’s self image and identity is heavily influenced by the words used to describe them, whether that be from others or from themselves, so we must be wary of evaluating the effects of different descriptions that can influence your own, or another person’s perception of someone’s mental health condition. A person’s identity is a beautiful and powerful sentiment to what is held closest to them, and we must be wary to put that at the forefront. When in doubt, always ask the person you are referring to how they would like to be described. After all, people are experts in themselves and could confidently tell you their relationships with any mental health conditions they may experience, it is our job to honor that respectfully.

Our Brains and Funhouse Mirrors: all about cognitive distortions!

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 00:41:42 GMT

Do you remember those funhouse mirrors at the fair? The ones that make your reflection all bent and twisted in silly ways? Cognitive distortions are like that for your brain! Funky and negative ways of thinking that cause our reflections of ourselves to be a little wonky, but overall untrue. Let’s explore that!

What are they and why do we do this?

Our brains process a LOT of information. To try to help lift the burden, it creates mental filters or biases as shortcuts. Sometimes, these can be helpful, but other times, they fuel anxiety or increase negative perceptions of ourselves. That’s when you know you’ve run into a cognitive distortion.

A lot of our cognitive biases can be found in overthinking, or ruminative thinking. This is where we spiral into replaying thoughts over and over again. Sometimes it can be helpful in trying to prepare for an upcoming situation and figuring out the best way to tackle it. Other times, when coupled with cognitive distortions, we may experience a deeper spiral into negative thoughts, enhancing feelings of anxiety, increasing unproductiveness, and altogether leaving a serious feeling of helplessness in its wake.

Black and white/all or nothing thinking: I always ruin these events.
Jumping to conclusions/mind reading: the professor looked at me weird, that means I definitely failed the exam.
Personalization: My team’s loss is all my fault.
Should-ing/must-ing: I should be losing weight instead of going out.
Mental filters/focusing on the negative: I am terrible at eating healthy, I shouldn’t even try.
Overgeneralization: No one will ever like me, I will never find a partner
Magnification/minimization (catastrophizing): I made a mistake at work and now I will get fired and never get another job
Fortune-telling(favoring negative outcomes): I studied a lot but will fail the exam
Comparison (favoring negative perceptions of oneself): My friends are all happier than me
Labeling: I’m just not a lovable person
Disqualifying the positive: I did well, but it probably was just luck.

Another ingredient that emphasizes these distortions is unchecked emotional reasoning. This empowers a combination of a lot of cognitive distortions, and in short, is where we engage in strong emotions that cloud judgements and can disregard factual evidence. For example, My partner is cheating on me (even though there is no evidence, this distortion is supported by the emotion of jealousy and insecurity), or nobody likes me (even though you have friends, this distortion is supported by feelings of loneliness).

Oh man, I think like this sometimes, I want to fix it!

You’re in luck, the first step of progress is being aware! Understanding how you frame thoughts and feelings towards yourself. If we put in the work to frame things in a more healthy or positive light, we can lessen our anxiety and decrease faulty emotional reasoning. After all, many of these distortions are not based in truth, we need to be resilient in fighting any notions that make it seem like they are! It takes a lot of self reflection, hard conversations with yourself, and a lot of unlearning. It’s not an easy task, but it’s not impossible either! I like to say that baby steps forward are still steps in the right direction. Be proud of yourself and be gentle along the journey!

The difference it makes

Of course progress isn’t linear, we will all have our pitfalls and triumphs when it comes to things like this, but practice makes perfect, and taking that extra time to analyze your thoughts will allow you to free yourself from negative cognitive distortions and pave the way for meaningful relationships, relaxation, and a happier outlook on life! It can also help you be more productive, find new passions, and increase pride in your own identity. It’s not easy, and it’s okay if you need help along the way! Reaching out to mental health professionals to find healthy, tailored coping mechanisms is a great strategy, as well as finding resources on the internet that teach mindfulness practices and mediation techniques!

Common Cognitive distortions

The Power of Internal Validation

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 00:37:15 GMT

Tell yourself you’re awesome! It’s worth it :)

Introduction

To truly grasp the concept of internal validation, we must also understand its counterpart: external validation. In essence, validation is the recognition that our feelings are valid and important. External validation, as the name suggests, comes from others, often through compliments or positive interactions. However, it's important to note that external validation is often fleeting and relies on external sources. In stark contrast, internal validation is a self-sustaining force that comes from within.

Internal validation is a state where we embrace our feelings without judgment. It's a powerful strategy that enables us to navigate emotions better. By not internalizing shame, we create a safer space within ourselves, fostering more self-acceptance.

How We Can Implement Internal Validation

Positive affirmations have the ability to help individuals increase their levels of confidence and image of self-worth through mantras and phrases. These can be as short as a minute a day. Some examples could be:

“I am worthy of love and respect just as I am.”
“I accept myself unconditionally”
“I believe in myself and my ability to succeed in my goals”
“I choose happiness and joy in every moment”
“I radiate positivity and bring positive energy into my life”
“I face challenges with courage and determination”
“I am creative and talented with unique gifts to share”
“I care about the positive aspects of my life and will value gratitude every day”

Practicing mindfulness and gratitude can have huge effects on promoting internal validation. Gratitude journals to ourselves, gratitude letters or visits to others that make your life have meaning, and even meditation can help you experience more gratitude in your life. (And check out our blog post for more).

Celebrating successes is critical in understanding self-worth, a key component of internal validation. This enables individuals to boost self-esteem, affirm their progress, provide validation for their effort, and counteract any negative thoughts that come up.

Validating emotions can also improve internal validation. This prevents individuals from judging their emotions and enables them to embrace them for further internal validation. Additionally, it fosters better emotional well-being. It can also improve self-esteem and encourage us to become more effective in our communication.

Setting goals is another great way to promote internal validation by giving individuals things to work towards that are achievable. The trick here is ensuring that the goals are, in fact, achievable. This gives individuals a sense of achievement and purpose and enables personal growth to continue.

Conclusion

All in all, internal validation is critical in promoting levels of self-esteem, resilience, autonomy, emotional well-being, fulfillment, motivation, and empowerment. Taking the time to create positive affirmations each day, celebrate successes, validate emotions, and practice gratitude can ensure that our brains stay happy and healthy :)

Sources

https://foundationsasheville.com/internal-vs-external-validation-for-self-esteem-growth/#:~:text=Internal%20validation%20is%20the%20validation,may%20have%20around%20your%20feelings.

Navigating Mental Health Challenges in College: Strategies for Coping and Seeking Support

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 00:33:44 GMT

“What mental health needs is more sunlight, more candor, and more unashamed conversation.”

Introduction

College is a time filled with trying new things, taking midterm exams, making new friends, and experiencing busy-packed days. With this comes moments of excitement and independence as many live independently for the first time. Not knowing how to do laundry or what can and can’t go in the microwave are relatively easy to change. On the other hand, managing time with so many juggling pieces, adjusting to a new schedule, and resolving roommate conflicts can feel a bit more challenging to navigate. It can feel the most challenging, however, to struggle with mental health, figure out potential next steps, and follow through with a plan. Navigating these challenges can feel burdening, and for many college students, it is often the factors that may hinder them from seeking help that would actually make them that much more likely to benefit from it.

How can college students find this support? How can they reach the point where they are comfortable accessing and benefiting from them? Further, what should college students do if they are worried about a friend? In order to deep-dive into these questions, we must first understand why this is important.

The Importance

According to the 2020 Healthy Minds study, over 60% of college students meet the criteria for at least one mental health disorder. This data was collected from nearly 400 institutions and sheds light on the alarming rates of mental health concerns on college campuses. A 2023 survey published by Preeti Vankar found that 41 percent of college students were experiencing depression. Furthermore, in the 2023 college mental health report from Best Colleges, 99% of those surveyed shared that their academic performance affected their mental health, and 64% of students shared that they had experienced overwhelming levels of anxiety in the past year.

Rates of mental health disorders and conversations surrounding these issues have increased each year, and one would hope that with the increase in occurrence rates and conversations, more students would be seeking support. While this is true for some, it is not true for all, and willingness to pursue the next steps is critical, as are beneficial resources.

Wyatt et al. found that the first year of college is an inherently impactful time to promote awareness of mental health issues and available resources. They found that upperclassmen reported higher levels of academic impact from mental health factors and that mental health concerns occur at high rates in underclassmen, as well. Additionally, findings showed that the prevalence of mental health concerns is increasing. This survey included responses from over 66 thousand college students and established that there are many ways to incorporate mental health awareness into the early months on college campuses.

Additionally, Eisenberg et al. conducted a study in which they found that of students surveyed with a previously established mental health concern, only 36% received treatment in the past year and that the rates of accessing psychotherapy and taking medication were approximately the same. On this note, Yorgason et al. found that students who had been going through mental distress were more likely to know about services on campus as well as use them. Despite this, there were still students who shared that they were going through mental health challenges but did not know about services or use them. Factors that decreased one’s knowledge of available services included those who identified as male, had fewer years in college or lived off campus. Due to this, it is up to institutions to readily advertise and share information with students in order for them to know the services that exist.

Furthermore, it is important to note that in addition to knowledge of services being a barrier to students' access to support, stigma also plays a role. Eisenberg et al. found that from a sample of nearly six thousand students from 13 universities, perceived public stigma was higher than personal stigma, and individuals who were male, younger, or from a poorer family had increased personal stigma.

With these factors laid out, it becomes apparent that access, knowledge, and moving past stigma are critical in enabling individuals to seek support. Additionally, rates of mental health concerns are alarming on college campuses.

The Factors at Play

One model that helps us better understand the large span of factors that can influence mental health is the biopsychosocial model. The “biology” component refers to factors such as genetics, medications, and physical health which can all impact mental health. The “psych” component includes behavior patterns, moods, and emotions. The “social” component largely refers to environmental factors and supports influencing mental health. Just like anyone, for college students, everything from their environment to their genetics can influence their likelihood of experiencing mental health concerns. For most individuals, it is not just about one single factor but, rather, the combination of many.

In terms of environment, specifically, there are aspects of the college experience that may lead some individuals to face mental health challenges. The pressure of making friends early on, balancing “work” and “play,” feeling distant from the support system they may have at home, and academic stressors can worsen mental health. Transitioning to the college campus can lead some to experience challenges adjusting to the new environment, homesickness, or loneliness in those early days. The college environment can also foster unhealthy habits for some, including less exercise, poor diet, and lack of sleep. Additionally, depending on who an individual surrounds themself with, there could be surrounding stigma around mental health conversations. College students may also experience financial stress while not having a job on campus and worrying about loans and tuition, which can worsen mental health. All of these factors can lead to the college environment bolstering mental health concerns.

On the other hand, college campus environments can foster positive mental health outcomes for many, as well. They may be filled with green spaces and walking paths, which makes a critical difference, as nature is known to improve wellbeing. Study spaces may be filled with natural light and openness, leading to increased levels of productivity, positivity, and collaboration. Living in a dorm surrounded by other students can lead to increased levels of socialization that foster positive outcomes in mental health. Additionally, campus considerations around accessibility and inclusivity can make many students feel at home.

It is critical that college campuses are intentional about ensuring that students feel supported and are able to access resources that can lead them to maintain solid well-being. Enjoying all that the college experience has to offer is contingent on mental health.

What Supports May Look Like

Support can be so impactful. Exactly what that support looks like will vary from campus to campus and from individual to individual.

Many colleges have counseling centers, some associated with their health centers, to better support students. For many institutions, this is included in tuition, leading to no additional charges for these services. These centers may include one-on-one therapy sessions, support groups, in-person therapy, and telehealth options.

Counseling centers can be beneficial for both individuals who have experience with therapy and those who don’t. Campus counseling centers can help students with a variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, sleep habits, relationship concerns, career uncertainty, and so much more. Counseling centers are often also readily able to recommend various outside services for students.

These supports are becoming increasingly common, and in 2019, 90% of counseling center directors, according to the Association for University and College Counseling Center Directors Annual Survey, shared that there had been an increase in students seeking services.

Many counseling centers will have a “consultation clinic” or form of drop in hours for students to be able to connect without an appointment. Other options may include being able to make appointments with the therapists on staff. This is often either in the form of individual counseling or group sessions. Group sessions may be focused on specific topics for students to be able to connect with other students, as well. Supports may also be in the form of crisis support for students, as well as training for how students can support other students.

Support for students often extends beyond the college counseling center. Students with documented learning disabilities benefit from accessibility services. Additionally, resources on campus, such as drop-in help and tutoring, can be instrumental for students facing academic stress or burnout. Joining clubs to meet more people or going to meals with a couple of friends can be helpful for students who feel socially isolated. Practicing mindfulness and self-care techniques is critical for college students and can be a great way to de-stress after a long day!

Getting Over the Hurdle

There are various reasons why college students may be hesitant to seek support on campus. These can include not having time, sensing that there is a public stigma for seeking support, and fear of trying something out and it not working.

Feeling like students don’t have enough time to seek counseling is a concern. Due to this, some students may prefer to make an appointment since it holds them accountable for making time, and other students may prefer to go to drop-in hours so they don’t have to commit to a time in advance.

Additionally, for some students, they can sense that there is stigma surrounding seeking support. It is important to note that seeking services is confidential. Additionally, as mentioned in previous studies, perceived public stigma is often rated higher than individual stigma truly is, which is critical to underscore. It can be hard to seek support when students fear that it is stigmatized, and despite the fact that it is super normal and expected for students to utilize counseling services, internal fear of stigma is a hurdle that can feel challenging to overcome.

Lastly, the fear of counseling services “not working” prevents many students from seeking support. However, there is no harm in trying, and if a student meets with one therapist and it is not a good match, there are often other options! Trial and error can be super impactful in finding the best fit.

In Conclusion

When students feel supported on campus, they are better able to put their best foot forward academically and socially. College is a magical time filled with memories that many call the “best four years of their life!” Reaching that point requires feeling like students are able to truly feel supported. Options for support on campus vary, and the process of finding the “right” one can require some trial and error, but in the end, it can be extremely beneficial and impactful.

Sources

Student mental health is in crisis. Campuses are rethinking their approach (apa.org)

Trends in college student mental health and help-seeking by race/ethnicity: Findings from the national healthy minds study, 2013–2021 - ScienceDirect

Mental Health Among College Students: Do Those Who Need Services Know About and Use Them?

Stigma and Help Seeking for Mental Health Among College Students - Daniel Eisenberg, Marilyn F. Downs, Ezra Golberstein, Kara Zivin, 2009 (sagepub.com)

ERIC - EJ1146574 - Mental Health and Academic Performance of First-Year College Students, International Journal of Higher Education, 2017

College Student Mental Health Statistics | BestColleges

Mental Health Service Utilization Among College Students in... : The Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease (lww.com)

Center for Collegiate Mental Health 2023 Annual Report

Understanding the Biopsychosocial Model of Health and Wellness.

A crunch at college counseling centers

Clinician Spotlight: Dr. Adina Goodman

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 00:29:01 GMT

This time around, we have a special edition of our Clinician Spotlight: we’re featuring our graduate students! PsyD candidates Jordan French, DJ King, Brenna Lincoln, and Anna Port have been working with NNG for the past year, and they’re about to embark on the next steps of their professional journey. Before they finished up at NNG, we were able to get a few words from Anna, DJ, and Jordan, reflecting on their time with us.

What initially drew you to this field, and what do you love most about it?

I love working with children and adolescents. I was a teacher before I went to grad school, and through teaching, I honed in on my interest in kids' social-emotional development.

Also, I like understanding kids' unique patterns of strengths and weaknesses. Through testing, I love using objective data to validate what parents, teachers, and children see in themselves.

Also, through this work, I get to see such a variety of ages and diagnostic presentations within a relatively short period of time.

What has been your favorite thing about Newton Neuropsychology Group?

My favorite thing about Newton Neuropsychology Group is all of the people. Everyone who works here is just so nice, and the clients we work with are great, too. I have also loved working with other professionals in the community. We get referrals from therapists, schools, pediatricians, psychiatrists, and more - I love when I find I’m getting patients from the same collateral referrals because of the community we’re drawing in. It’s also been really cool to watch the practice grow and see it become more and more known in the area.

What do you hope clients can gain from working with you as a clinician?

I hope they can feel validation, clarity, and a path forward. I always end my feedback with some action items so they know exactly what steps to take next. Clients may feel flooded with so much information, and I like them to understand why certain things are occurring and what next steps they can take.

I think there’s a lot of misunderstanding of what a neuropsych evaluation really is and the benefits that families can get from it. Especially for kids, there can be some confusion around how it fits into the rest of their services. I hope my clients can gain some clarity into how my evaluation fits into services they may already have, or what types of supports it may get them. I hope my clients gain a better understanding of the utility of this service.

Outside of work, what brings you the most joy?

Being outside, skiing, hiking, camping, being with my dog and my husband. I do a lot of reading for fun, especially fiction. I also recently got my dog certified to be a therapy dog! I love volunteering with her in hospitals, senior living facilities, and libraries.

Neuroplasticity: Experience Changes Your Brain

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 00:23:38 GMT

Your brain can change; its current state is not its forever state. Neurons in the brain are as numerous as stars in the Milky Way, with over 100 trillion connections between them.

What is it?

Neuroplasticity, a term that encapsulates the brain's remarkable adaptability, refers to the changeable nature of the neuronal connections in the brain. Neurons, the building blocks of communication in the nervous system, are connected by synapses, the gaps that enable signals to travel from one neuron to the next. Neuroplasticity results from the central nervous system's ability to “undergo structural and functional reorganization in response to the environment, its afferent stimuli, and efferent demands” (Christiansen et al.).

There are two types of neuroplasticity: structural plasticity and functional plasticity.

Structural plasticity: the brain’s ability to change physical structure due to learning

Functional plasticity: the brain’s ability to move functions from one area of the brain that was damaged to other undamaged areas to maintain some of its normal functioning.

Why is neuroplasticity important?

Understanding neuroplasticity is fascinating and empowering. It's the key to unlocking our brain's potential for learning. The concept of “use it or lose it” is directly applicable here, as synapses are strengthened or weakened depending on how much the pathways are used. Since the brain is only two percent of the body’s mass yet requires 20 percent of the body’s energy, it is critical for the brain to be efficient in its connections and only maintain the pathways that are likely to be used to conserve energy.

Neuroplasticity enables us to learn new things. As we learn, the synapses between neurons strengthen. These physical and structural changes lead to changes in functioning and learning. It is due to experiences and new information that our brains change their neuronal connections and we can retain new knowledge.
These improvements can enhance brain fitness. The term Cognifit defines brain fitness as “the ability of the brain to learn what the organism needs to know in order to survive in a changing environment.” Neuroplasticity enables the brain to acquire this new information in a changing environment, thus increasing brain fitness.

Additionally, functional plasticity is critical in the rehabilitation and recovery process from brain injuries such as traumatic brain injuries/concussions (TBIs), stroke, tumors, etc.

According to Harvard, due to neuroplasticity, individuals can regain functions that were previously there before the traumatic event. This is likely due to an increase in dendritic spines that researchers at University of California Santa Cruz found in mice that were learning new information.

When individuals undergo stroke or TBI rehabilitation, their brains are being rewired to regain functions. Otherwise, these individuals would not be able to recover at all. Although in most cases, a 100 percent regain of functions is rare, being able to continue some of these daily life skills is instrumental. Rehab and therapies aim to create rewiring in the brain by drilling lost skills, thus enabling synaptic connections to strengthen.

Synaptic strengthening can le ad to previously weak connections becoming strengthened, enabling patients with physical or motor deficits to regain function through nearby areas of the brain taking over some of these functions.

How can we influence neuroplasticity?

Neuroplasticity, which is so critical in learning and rewiring, can be influenced by many factors.

Exercise: Loprinzi et al. found in 2020 that exercise can lead to increased levels of neuroplasticity. Exercise increases blood flow to the brain and heightens levels of growth factors that are critical in neuroplasticity: Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor and IGF-1. This research specifically notes the benefits of both aerobic exercise as well as resistance training in promoting neuroplasticity. Loprinzi et al’s study is one of many that highlights the critical impact of exercise on learning and rehabilitation.

Nourishment: Many studies have highlighted the large impact that our food choices have on our ability to strengthen, prune, and create new synaptic connections. For example, Curcumin, a compound in turmeric, as well as Omega-3 fatty acids are known to increase levels of neuroplasticity. Some of these foods include nuts, avocado, salmon, dark chocolate, and leafy greens. Conversely, excess levels of saturated fats have been demonstrated to decrease levels of cognitive functioning and neuroplasticity.

Sleep: One of the most imp ortant factors in increasing levels of neuroplasticity is sleep! Sleep deprivation is associated with a significant loss in our brain’s ability to strengthen synaptic connections. Having adequate levels of blood supply to the brain is crucial in neuroplasticity, and sleep facilitates this.

Experience: Cognitively engaging activities such as learning a new language, playing an instrument, reading, and logic games can promote neuroplasticity as well. This is because repeated “usage” of neural pathways leads to strengthening. Enriched environments, especially during the early years known as the “critical period,” but also throughout adulthood promotes neuroplasticity.

In conclusion…

We have the potential to change not just how our brain functions but its structural connections. Neuroplasticity plays a large role in our ability to learn and regain loss functions. We can further enhance these functions through enriching our environments, making sure we’re getting adequate sleep, exercising, and getting our nutrients!

Sources

https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/neuroplasticity

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557811/#:~:text=It%20is%20defined%20as%20the,traumatic%20brain%20injury%20(TBI) .

https://www.cognifit.com/brain-fitness

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/neuroplasticity

https://sitn.hms.harvard.edu/flash/2023/neuroplasticity-how-lost-skills-can-be-regained-after-injury-or-illness/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3292711/

https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.831819/full

https://www.rupahealth.com/post/neuroplasticity-and-nutrition-the-role-of-diet-in-brain-resilience-and-repair

https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-brain-plasticity-2794886

Laughter: A Brain Medicine?

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 00:19:26 GMT

Charlie Chaplin once shared that “a day without laughter is a day wasted.” Is this true? Is laughter really that good for your brain and well-being?

Overview

Laughter is contagious. When surrounded by laughter, it is often challenging not to laugh ourselves! We are more likely to laugh when we are around others, and recent studies have demonstrated that it is not solely jokes that make us laugh but, even more often, other people’s presence around us. Research has demonstrated that we’re 30 times more likely to laugh when we are surrounded by laughter. In fact, the average adult laughs 15-20 times daily.

Studies

Recent studies have supported the wide range of health benefits of laughter. Laughter can lead to many positive mental health outcomes, and studies have shown that those who laugh more may actually live longer.

Additionally, laughter has been demonstrated to reduce levels of anxiety and depression and improve the quality of sleep in adults. Some studies have even investigated whether laughter can be used as a non-pharmacological alternative for depression and anxiety. A 2012 study found that laughter significantly boosts mood, reduces stress, and strengthens the immune system, making it an effective medicine for the body.

Short term benefits

Laughter stimulates many organs, leading to enhanced oxygen intake. It can also stimulate many of your muscles and increase endorphins from the brain. When these endorphins and neurotransmitters are released, they make us feel happy! The neurotransmitters can include serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin. Additionally, laughter leads to decreased tension and may relax muscles after they are engaged. This can relax your stress response! Laughter helps us immediately relax and recharge.

Long term benefits

As mentioned, laughter affects our immune system and can strengthen it over time. Laughter also affects how our body responds to pain and can reduce pain levels over time. Laughter can lead to long-term mood boosts and affect how we navigate stressful situations over time.

Laughter overall can greatly impact our cognitive function. Laughter helps us think more creatively, clearly, and productively :)

Additionally, laughter helps our social health! Being social leads to decreased levels of dementia and better cognition.

In Conclusion…

Laughter really does make good medicine! Whether its engaging in funny conversations with friends, finding a funny movie, or going to a comedy show, finding ways to laugh can have tremendous benefits.

Sources

https://www.cbc.ca/natureofthings/features/7-surprising-facts-about-laughing-and-crying

https://time.com/3180062/13-things-you-probably-dont-know-about-laughing/

https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/yoga-wellness/humor-can-add-years-to-your-life-better-boss

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jan.14000

https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/tjem/239/3/239_243/_article

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/j.1552-146X.2011.tb00128.x

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress-relief/art-20044456

https://thedaily.case.edu/laughing-is-good-for-you-heres-why/

Clinician Spotlight: Dr. Elizabeth (Libby) Byrne

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 00:16:39 GMT

In our ongoing series 'Clinician Spotlight', we learn more about all the amazing clinicians here at Newton Neuropsychology Group. We sit with Dr. Elizabeth (Libby) Byrne in this installment to learn more about her!

I feel like I stumbled into it! I joined graduate school and thought for sure I was going to be a therapist, but I had a wonderful instructor for my assessment courses, and he made me really passionate about the data you can get from a neuropsychological evaluation and how helpful it can be for individuals and their caregivers. Often, people feel stuck or feel like something isn't working in their life or in their treatment process, and they can't put a finger on it. We can help point out what’s under those layers to validate individuals' understanding of why parts of their lives may feel difficult. You can make a huge difference in people's lives in this field. Neuropsychological testing can help people identify different pieces of themselves, some of which they may not have been aware of or had the language to describe and name, and as the evaluator you play an active role in helping people become more self-aware of these different pieces and have the chance to help people better understand themselves and put these pieces together, like a puzzle.

I’ve always been drawn to the field of psychology in general because I’m more of a nurturer and advocate at heart. When I was in college and studying psychology and criminology and law, I saw firsthand how many people who found themselves entangled in the criminal justice system had underlying mental health issues. I was drawn into the field by realizing that so many people get to these low points and fall into the cracks of the judicial, medical, and educational systems, and I wanted to be one of the people to try and stop that, to help seal up those cracks so to speak. At the end of the day, I wanted to make a difference in people's journeys.

What drew you to Neuropsychology?

What do you enjoy most about Newton Neuropsychology Group?

The atmosphere! It is SO collaborative, so supportive. Everyone brings something unique to the table. We can seek each other out as needed, and no one hesitates to do that. I find that at a practice of our size, we have a lot of opportunities to get to know each other as people, and we’ve been able to build such a great team of like-minded individuals. Everyone enjoys being in the office together and we all seem to just get along so well. Being able to connect with the people you work with on that personal level makes a huge difference for sure. The atmosphere is just so amazing. We have a wide variety of mental health conditions we are able to treat in our cases because of the variety in our training. There’s such a curiosity and desire to learn from each other.

What do you hope clients can gain from working with you as a clinician?

I want clients to, first and foremost, gain a better sense of self. My goal is to always validate a client's experience and give them a better understanding of themselves as well as to promote self-compassion. I think we all have to start our treatment journey somewhere, and by fostering a sense of self-understanding, we as clinicians are able to help give clients the tools and resources to be more self-aware, to promote that insight and self-understanding. In turn, this enables our clients to build their self-reliance and self-advocacy skills, which consequently allows them to maximize their unique strengths and achieve their full potential. I want them to walk away not just with a diagnostic label, but to walk away feeling like they understand themselves better; to empower them to use that newfound knowledge of themselves to aid in their journey and live their best lives. Essentially, I want to be a stepping stone on my client’s journey to self-discovery and living a fulfilled life.

There are no medical tests involved, no needles or brain imaging! All of that stuff can be helpful, but it’s not what we do :) We look at how someone thinks, how they problem solve, what sort of things are easier for them from a cognitive perspective, and what things may be harder. We look at those underlying strengths and weaknesses; identify someone’s growing edges or things that are more challenging for them so that we can target those areas and strengthen them. Yes, “neuro” is in the word, so there’s an emphasis on cognition, but we also look at the social-emotional factors that make up a person’s clinical presentation and incorporate various measures of social/emotional functioning into all of our testing batteries because, simply put, we as humans are not machines and do not exist in a vacuum. We exist beyond this cognitive aspect, and there is so much research to support just how much various social, emotional, and environmental factors influence our cognition and our ability to properly access and utilize our cognitive resources to their utmost potential. We do so much social and emotional learning as humans, so it is important for us as clinicians to also take into consideration just how all of these various factors come together and shape a person’s presentation.

What’s a fun fact or something about neuropsychology that most people might not know?

My son! I have an almost 2-year-old, and it’s amazing seeing him discover the world. Spending time with him is a lot of fun; he makes traditionally boring tasks (like grocery shopping) such an adventure.

I have two big dogs: a German shepherd and a husky. They keep me active and on my feet. I love the time I spend with them, playing fetch, going on walks, and running, they’re wonderful family dogs and total lovebugs.

I’m also fortunate to have a wonderful, supportive husband who embraces fatherhood and marriage with his whole being. We enjoy spending time together as a family, whether it’s being outdoors or just doing things around the house; it’s the togetherness that we appreciate. I also enjoy hiking, walking, and just being outdoors in general; one of my favorite things about Massachusetts is having access to so many great hiking and walking paths. I’ve always been passionate about books and enjoy most genres, and I’ve found that audiobooks work well with my current lifestyle, too!

What do you enjoy outside of work?

Clinician Spotlight: Dr. Paul Andrick

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 00:08:42 GMT

In our ongoing series 'Clinician Spotlight,' we learn more about all the amazing clinicians at Newton Neuropsychology Group. We sit with Dr. Paul Andrick in this installment to learn more about him!

What drew you to Neuropsychology?

My strong desire to help others and use Science and human connection to foster positive growth drew me. I loved the idea of not using a deficit-based model but focusing on the whole person with a strengths-based approach to leverage those abilities and help individuals grow to achieve their own goals and see success across different areas of their lives. In addition, I have always had a strong curiosity about how people think, learn, grow, and interact with others in their world.

So, I got my feet wet in psychology, and I loved that, but neuropsychology gave me a chance to take a step forward by allowing me to integrate many different aspects: clients’ histories, self-reporting, consulting with collaterals, and using the testing data to draw conclusions and make accurate diagnoses. Being able to integrate all of that into one comprehensive document was a really unique opportunity. I was able to help clients in a different way than I had in the past, give them a solid roadmap for their clinical and psychological makeup, and provide them with a tailored list of recommendations to help them achieve their goals.

I have enjoyed incorporating both therapy and assessment as part of my clinical orientation and practice. During my internship years, having both therapy and assessment in my repertoire helped me use each to guide the other. It’s helpful to be able to base recommendations on my therapeutic work or on evidence-based practices in neuropsychology.

It is rewarding to form relationships with other people, with families and clients, and to provide strengths-based collaborative care that empowers individuals rather than just looking for a “deficit or needs-based” approach.

Also, helping them reach their goals through therapy and/or assessment and seeing that change. I enjoy forming that relationship and trust, then seeing clients and families take control of their own lives. It is awesome to see them extend the work into the real world.

What parts of your work do you enjoy the most?

What do you hope clients can gain from working with you?

I hope clients can be able to have more of a sense of hope and direction for the future for their kids or themselves and determine what the best supports are, whether it’s at school or at home. I hope clients can really be able to pinpoint or hone in on their top priorities towards improving the things that they are concerned with. I strive to empower them with the tools and strategies to be able to live more successful and happier lives. I want people who work with me to feel heard and respected and that they have a safe space to process through their challenges while also receiving compassionate, evidence-based care.

Outside of work, what do you enjoy doing?

I enjoy being outdoors, exercising, and being around family and friends. I’m also really into sports, golf, snowboarding, hiking, fishing, traveling, and cooking.

Executive Functioning: An Overview

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 00:02:21 GMT

Studies show that 20-30% of school-age children struggle with executive functioning skills, affecting their ability to organize, plan, and complete tasks. Research has shown that targeted interventions can significantly improve executive functioning skills in children and adolescents. Studies have demonstrated up to 30% improvement in students with EF challenges following intervention.

What is it?

Executive functioning (EF) is a type of self-regulation that helps us carry out many daily tasks. It encapsulates many different types of thinking and skills that are primarily controlled by the brain's prefrontal cortex. These include many higher-level functions that are exclusive to humans. EF skills include regulation, monitoring, impulse control, organization, attention, planning, prioritizing, working memory, time management, flexible thinking, and more.

How is it related to neuropsychology?

Assessment : Neuropsychological evaluations can provide context and an understanding for individuals struggling with executive functioning. Testing batteries and tools can highlight individuals’ strengths and challenges in the broad range of skills that are the executive functions. By pursuing the next steps for neuropsychological evaluation and understanding EF strengths/weaknesses in individuals, they can better access the next steps that can best support them moving forward.

Brain Regions : EF is linked to the prefrontal cortex, one area of the brain that is highly studied in neuropsychology due to many brain-behavior relationships.

Neurodevelopment : Within neuropsychology, development is a crucial focus for many. EF can change throughout one's lifespan and provide much insight into neurodevelopment and cognitive decline later in life.

Neuropsychological Disorders : Many neuropsychological disorders and neurodevelopmental disorders are associated with differences in executive functioning (see below).

Treatment : Many individuals with EF impairments may adopt strategies or interventions to improve their EF and quality of life.

Research : Many studies in neuropsychology focus on how EF affects memory, social behavior, mood, learning, and daily functioning. This contributes to our understanding of EF and cognitive health.

Individual Differences: Everyone’s brains are different, and the idea of “neurodiversity” is often elevated within the field. Biological factors, social factors, psychological factors, and much more influence individuals’ strengths and weaknesses, and EF is a large area that is well understood.

Who may find challenges with executive functioning?

Anyone and everyone at times! EF describes skills that no one is perfect at!

With that said, many factors can lead to more significant challenges with executive functioning.

Kids may have more significant challenges because their prefrontal cortexes still need to develop fully! (it fully develops in your mid-20s! Individuals with neurodegenerative disorders or memory disorders such as Alzheimer’s may find more significant challenges with executive functioning. Individuals with other diseases or conditions such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, brain tumors, or who underwent stroke may also see increased challenges with executive functioning.

In addition, individuals who use substances such as alcohol or drugs or individuals who have ADHD, autism, depression, OCD, or schizophrenia may also find challenges with executive functioning.

What can we (anyone!) do to improve our executive functioning potential?

Many of the things that promote cognitive/brain health improve executive functioning, too! First and foremost, sleep is critical! In order for executive functioning to be… actually functioning… we need to be well rested! Sleep helps with memory consolidation, cognitive functioning, emotional regulation, problem-solving, and restoration, which are critical in EF.

Physical exercise, eating foods high in nutrients, social interaction, stress management, goal setting, and mindfulness can all also enhance executive functioning potential.

Additionally, intervention can be helpful for many. This can take many forms, including executive functioning coaching, behavioral interventions, social skills groups, therapy, and more.

In Conclusion…

Executive functioning is critical for our daily routine, and there are many actions we can take to promote it for ourselves!

Sources

https://developingchild.harvard.edu/science/key-concepts/executive-function/ ‘

https://www.readingrockets.org/topics/executive-function/articles/executive-function-fact-sheet

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/23224-executive-dysfunction

https://www.beyondbooksmart.com/executive-functioning-strategies-blog/time-for-bed-why-sleep-is-essential-for-executive-functioning#:~:text=Sleep%20and%20Executive%20Function&text=In%20other%20words%2C%20poor%20sleep,that%20promote%20healthy%20coping%20skills.

DJ : I have to choose just one? Aside from all the excellent clinical content, I’d say… how to manage my calendar and plan my time independently.

Reflecting on your time with NNG, what’s one thing you’ve learned?

Jordan: I have gained an incredible amount of knowledge through my time at NNG, not only through my clinical work but also as a part-time intake coordinator. My understanding of assessment, diagnoses, case conceptualization, and treatment recommendations have all grown exponentially. I feel more confident in my clinical skills and with working with a variety of individuals.

Anna : I learned how to provide clear and effective feedback to clients.

What was the most rewarding thing about working at NNG?

DJ : I used to work in marketing, and I hated it, so I applied for the PsyD program at William James College. And once I discovered assessment, I just loved it, so neuropsych became my goal.

Jordan: What has been most rewarding about my time at NNG is working with children and families directly. I enjoy using collaborative approaches to support each child's unique needs, as well as providing families with resources that can help their child flourish. Another rewarding part of working at NNG is the community environment! All clinicians openly welcome trainees and are available to provide support and suggestions whenever needed.

Anna: Growing my therapeutic skills has by far been the most rewarding part of my work. But overall, NNG has always been warm, welcoming, and supportive. I've grown a lot since the beginning of the year and truly appreciated my time here!

Jordan French

DJ King

What’s next for you?

Anna: Starting in July I'll be working in Rochester, NY completing my APA internship at Rochester Regional Health's neuropsychology track.

DJ: I matched for APA Internship at the Bedford VA hospital, and then after that, a neuropsych post-doc!

Farewell!

Decision Making: It Can Be Tricky!

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 23:57:58 GMT

Many sources suggest that individuals make up to 35,000 decisions a day!

Overview

Many individuals struggle with decision-making. Fear of making the wrong decision, worries of having to deal with negative consequences from a bad decision, and having trouble navigating the swarming sea of pros and cons with decisions can make this everyday task much more daunting. In addition to personal factors, decision-making can often feel difficult as others may be affected by the choices we make, too. There can be so much uncertainty and complexity within each of these decisions, and with 35,000 a day, there is a lot of room for indecisiveness!

Many individuals describe themselves as “indecisive.” Others view many of the decisions they make as not requiring much thought. And most people will fall somewhere between these two along this lengthy spectrum!

How is the brain involved in decision making?

There are a few areas of the brain that are involved in decision-making. The prefrontal cortex, for example, evaluates and judges potential options. The lateral prefrontal lobe calculates the outcomes of various choices during decision-making. Additionally, the ventral striatum weighs the pros and cons of various decisions and the steps required to follow through. Many additional areas of the brain are involved.

Neurotransmitters, the chemicals that help send messages in the brain, are also involved in the decision-making process. For example, when dopamine is released, decisions are often made faster. However, this speed increase in decision-making can sometimes lead to more inaccurate or effective choices. Serotonin can also change our decisions because it affects positive reward signals and motivation.

Adrenaline can also impede decision-making. If you ever recall a moment when you felt under pressure or stressed, and it was harder to think clearly, adrenaline is largely to blame. As heart rate and blood pressure increase with stress, and cortisol levels may skyrocket, making decisions can feel more challenging with your body in “fight or flight.” Acetylcholine is also essential in decision-making motor actions. Finally, many mental tasks require focus and attention, which can cause glutamate to build up. If there is too much glutamate, the lateral prefrontal cortex can have trouble making decisions!

What strategies can we implement?

There are many things that we can do to help make decision-making just a little bit easier :)

Define clear goals and set deadlines
Gather relevant information
List possible options and weigh the pros and cons
Seek help from others
Think about the short-term AND long-term implications of these decisions
And think about the past, too - what can you learn from past decisions?
Use your heart and your brain. Go with rationale and your gut.
Reduce stress levels and find moments of self-care
Adequate sleep and fueling yourself is essential!
Incorporate scaffolding. Break decisions into smaller steps
Limit distractions and take breaks
Foster a positive mood. You got this :)

In Conclusion…

Decision-making can feel very tricky. We may feel that we don’t have enough control over the process or that no outcome feels “perfect.” In these moments, it is critical to take a step back, tell yourself you got this, seek help from others, and find moments of self-care. You can do this!

Sources

https://hbr.org/2023/12/a-simple-way-to-make-better-decisions#:~:text=Various%20sources%20suggest%20that%20the,how%20we'll%20say%20it .

https://effectiviology.com/why-its-hard-to-make-decisions/

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-creativity-cure/201408/why-is-it-difficult-make-decisions#:~:text=Indecision%20can%20also%20stem%20from,of%20hurting%20or%20alienating%20another .

https://www.inc.com/jeff-haden/neuroscience-says-making-a-few-simple-changes-to-your-work-day-will-help-you-make-smarter-decisions-be-more-productive.html#:~:text=Difficult%20mental%20tasks%20that%20require,planning)%20in%20a%20significant%20way

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2023/09/230919154839.htm#:~:text=A%20recent%20study%20provides%20new,tend%20to%20be%20more%20inaccurate .

https://www.nature.com/articles/npp2010165#:~:text=Finally%2C%20while%20serotonin%20may%20modulate,with%20the%20evidence%20of%20functional

Clinician Spotlight: Dr. Jason Alan

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 23:54:24 GMT

In our ongoing series 'Clinician Spotlight', we learn more about all the amazing clinicians here at Newton Neuropsychology Group. In this installment, we sit with Dr. Jason Alan to learn more about him!

What led you to a career in neuropsychology?

I have always been very interested in brain-behavior relationships and cognitive health as a marker of overall health. I grew up around sports and had many friends who sustained concussions, and I have always been interested in brain development. I always knew that I wanted to pursue a higher level of education and training in the field of psychology, but was initially unsure of which direction that I wanted to go. In my first job out of college, I came across a neuropsychological report in the context of my job as a case manager. I was struck by how well the provider synthesized the individual’s history, their presentation, and their treatment plan, and that was the moment that I knew what area of psychology that I wanted to pursue. My feeling was, and still is, that this type of evaluation is a critical piece in treatment planning for people presenting with a wide array of cognitive concerns. We have a unique role where we get to take time with people and really get to know the factors that influence their cognitive and emotional well-being. As a field, neuropsychology is something that I have continued to grow an even stronger passion for the longer that I do this work.

My interest in the field has evolved over time. Among my training areas, I spent a good deal of time with concussive head injury cases. I worked with outcome data related to the effectiveness of concussion measures which are often administered acutely after an injury, with the goal of improving their overall efficacy. My main focus in this work was keeping people safe. With other referring questions, such as ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, or cognitive concerns related to aging, the focus remains the same. My goal is to help patients and their families understand their cognitive strengths and weaknesses, and tie this understanding to the recommendations that we give, whether this be resources, referrals, or strategies.

Regardless of the concern or focus, neuropsychologists have a unique ability to guide people in their care. In addition to the time we spend with patients, we get to take time to talk to their families and providers, to reach a well-rounded and comprehensive understanding of their presentation and concerns. I love that in addition to the benefit that patients get from our reports, their other providers can look at our reports and have measurable indicators of their cognitive health and recommendations that can help the individuals improve over time.

What do you love most about this field?

What do you hope clients can gain from working with you?

I hope clients gain a better understanding of their cognitive functioning, and the unique factors that influence how they think and feel. Very often, we have people who come to us and may not understand something like the role of mental health, poor sleep, and even medical factors on the brain and how these can present. I hope individuals gain an understanding of themselves and the things they can do to improve their functioning in a way that feels congruent to their goals and experience. Additionally, I always like to leave communication open after the evaluation and let folks know they can reach out anytime. So often, a neuropsychological evaluation is the beginning of the journey, and my goal is to be the person to set them on a path towards treatment that feels effective for them. I always tell people my favorite part of the evaluation process is the feedback session. Feedback is where we put it all together. Not only what is going on with a person, but importantly, what we can do about it. Those really salient recommendations are the key to an effective evaluation.

How do you like to unwind after work?

My favorite things to do outside of work are spending time with my wife, my friends, and my pup. I like to hike as often as I can. I have also rediscovered cooking over the past year. My wife is the baker so I had to keep up with her somehow! I also like going on day trips, playing golf, and playing tennis as well. I would tell anyone that it is critically important to unwind after work and take time to recharge with those you care about, or with activities that you enjoy!

Self-Reflection

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 23:32:49 GMT

Overview

Oxford defines self-reflection as “meditation or serious thought about one's character, actions, and motives.”

However, is this the full story? Self-reflection can take the form of serious thought. It can be a form of meditation. It also can be about one’s character, actions, and motives.

However, it’s essential to add that self-reflection can be intentional and implicit. We can take time each day to reflect on how our day went and what we think about our character, actions, and motives. Self-reflection can also be more implicit as it involves journaling, decision-making, and discussing how our day went with others.

Why is it beneficial?

Self-reflection can reduce our risk of mental health disorders or decrease the effect that already-existing mental health disorders have on our lives.

Self-reflection creates moments of pause. This leads to increased levels of self-awareness and emotional regulation. Through self-reflection, we can make more informed decisions (see our post) and prevent burnout (see our post). We are more likely to have lower levels of anxiety and stress when we reflect on how things are going, and we can stop anxiety-provoking things in their tracks before they get worse. Through self-reflection, we can also better understand our sense of purpose, growth, and resilience too!

“We do not learn from experience… we learn from reflecting on experience.” - John Dewey, How We Think (1933)

Self-reflection can take a variety of forms, as mentioned. Here are some ideas:

Create a journal or bullet journal, or use a journaling app on your phone.
Talk to friends, relatives, or those around you about your day
Engage in mindfulness practices
Seek feedback from others!
Take a few minutes at the end of each day to engage in daily check-ins
Set goals for yourself

How can we incorporate self-reflection into our lives?

Self-reflection can be an easy-to-incorporate aspect of our lives and has SO many benefits. Why don't you take 5 minutes now and engage in some self-reflection? Let us know how that felt!

In conclusion…

Benefits of Friendship: Enhancing Mental Health, Connection, and Joy

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 23:20:17 GMT

“Winter, spring, summer or fall, all you have to do is call. And I'll be there. You've got a friend.” ~ Carol King

Overview

The benefits of friendship may seem like common sense, but they’re even more plentiful than we think! Friendships contain social benefits, mental health benefits, physical health benefits, cognitive benefits, and so much more. Friendships can make us feel happier in challenging moments, give us plans to look forward to after a long week, and create some of our most fond memories throughout our lives. Friendships can reduce stress and loneliness, provide emotional support, boost happiness, and even help our lifestyle habits.

Let’s explore some of these benefits a little more to truly understand the remarkable benefits of friendships in many aspects of our lives.

Social benefits!

When thinking about the benefits of friendship, the social benefits likely come to mind first for many, and these benefits are entirely accurate! Friends can help us improve our sense of belonging and feel connected to our community.

Friendships can improve our awareness of others, empathy, and social skills. They also increase our support network and allow us to feel seen and heard. Friends can positively influence our lives, bringing out the best in us and pushing us to become the best version of ourselves as we bond over shared interests. Friends can encourage us outside of our comfort zones, create monumental moments of growth, and serve as added support layers along the way.

More specifically, regarding our social development, friends forge positive communication skills, help us with our conflict resolution abilities, encourage positive emotional regulation and trust building, help us maintain positive collaboration and teamwork abilities, and influence our cultural competency.

Mental health benefits!

The mental health benefits of friendships are plentiful. Since friendships enhance our support networks and sense of belonging, they can also significantly improve mental health outcomes. Friendships lead to reduced risk of depression, lower anxiety levels, a greater sense of purpose, emotional resilience, and decreased loneliness (including in high-stress moments or transition periods).

Physical health benefits (which also impact brain health!)

Friendships have many physical health benefits. As we know, physical health and brain health are directly related!

Friendships actually reduce the risk of chronic illness. Social connections are correlated with decreased risk of diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure. Loneliness can increase stress, which can then lead to increased risk for chronic illness, making social connections a great way to help prevent disease.

Furthermore, social interactions can even boost our immune system! Friends lead to healthier lifestyle decisions too, frequently, which can then increase our physical health. Friends may keep us active (such as friends that you may go on walks or to the gym or even to the beach with), and they can help us avoid harmful habits that deteriorate our health. Reduced stress from friendships can also improve our sleep quality, which has substantial physical, mental health, and cognitive benefits.

Cognitive health benefits!

Speaking of cognitive benefits, there are a lot of ways in which our friendships help our cognition! Generally peaking, all of the physical health benefits mentioned (such as encouraging exercise, lowering the risk of disease, preventing unhealthy habits, etc.) directly benefit our cognitive health, as physical and brain health are directly related! Social interactions can also increase our brain plasticity and ability to change with experiences (check out our post on neuroplasticity for more information). Furthermore, friendships can even help our memory. Social interaction is thought even to prevent neurological and neurodegenerative disorders such as dementia. Lastly, social interaction can reduce inflammation in the body (thus helping the brain) and help with neurotransmitter regulation.

Ways to foster these friendships

Fostering these friendships can be easy in some moments and challenging in others, depending on what else we have to prioritize!

One way to help this is to stay in touch with people we’ve met in the past and just check in on them or give them a call or shoot a text! Reconnecting with old friends and reaching out to individuals we have enjoyed spending time with can have huge benefits. Making time to connect with family members and get to know our neighbors is super valuable, too!

In conclusion…

Friendships have a LOT of benefits that span a variety of perspectives. Fostering these connections can help us even more than we think in the long run.

Sources

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/friendships/art-20044860

https://www.apa.org/monitor/2023/06/cover-story-science-friendship

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7025456/

Burn Out

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 23:14:22 GMT

“Many of us have been running all our lives. Practice Stopping.” ~ Thich Nhat Hanh

Overview

Burnout. So fun, right? Just kidding.

I’ve been there. You’ve been there. We’ve all been there. It’s a part of being human. It’s bound to happen at some point, but we can do a lot to prevent it. And there’s a lot we can do to help simmer things down in those hot moments.

Many different types of burnout can happen in various settings. You may have experienced some of these:

Social burnout - exhaustion from having to engage in social interactions

Academic burnout - fatigue from rigorous and demanding academic tasks

Physical burnout - tiredness from physical activity

Caregiver burnout - stress from the responsibility of caring for others

Digital burnout - overwhelm caused by constant use of digital devices

Creative burnout - exhaustion and a feeling of “stuckness” when creativity is necessary for success

Emotional burnout - Exhaustion from navigating challenging emotions

Occupation burnout - Fatigue from demanding tasks and long hours at work

Signs of Burnout

Emotional & Psychological Signs:

Increased anxiety and/or depression levels
Emotional numbness, increased irritability, and/or more immense emotions
New feelings of low self-esteem and self-worth
Loss of motivation or interest in things that previously brought enjoyment
Reduced satisfaction and reduced sense of accomplishment

Physical Signs:

New onset of physical fatigue, tiredness, insomnia, or exhaustion
Headaches or muscle pain
Appetite changes or weight fluctuations

Behavioral Signs:

Withdrawal from activities that previously brought interest or withdrawal from daily responsibilities
Increased levels of procrastination and challenges with maintaining previously-normal levels of productivity

Cognitive Signs:

Trouble concentrating on tasks/information/conversations with others
Increased levels of forgetfulness
Trouble making decisions (also known as decision-burnout; see our blog post on decision-making for more information)
Repetitive negative thought patterns
Confusion

Why is burnout so common?

Burnout can be common because it can be caused by so many different factors. All it takes is one “reason” or “trigger” for an individual to experience burnout, and there are so many different ways that it can manifest.

In a society that values productivity and high levels of efficiency, we are getting more done and achieving more. With these higher levels of productivity and getting “more done,” there is more room for burnout.

Burnout can be caused by either internal or external factors, making it not entirely in our control and increasing the risk for burnout. For example, internal factors that we can personally change but that cause burnout can span so many different factors. These factors may include perfectionism, challenges with delegation, lack of coping mechanisms, high expectations, negative self-talk, lack of self-care, over-commitment, fear of failure, imposter syndrome (see our blog post), and anxiety. External factors may include high workload, long working hours, unclear expectations, social isolation, digital overload, and many responsibilities. With so many factors that can cause burnout that are both in and out of our control, burnout becomes much more common.

How can we prevent burnout? How can we manage it?

We can prevent burnout with a variety of strategies. Nourishing ourselves by getting enough sleep, eating, and finding moments for relaxation and physical activity is a great start. Setting boundaries and reasonable expectations and goals is critical. Being willing to ask for help and creating a support system can be helpful. Finding opportunities to delegate and communicate with those around you is also worthwhile. When in doubt, re-evaluate and see if you can adjust any components of your workload and responsibility (which can be the most challenging part!). Take breaks, and remember the value of friendships (see our blog post!).

In conclusion…

Burnout can feel challenging, and it is! It is essential to acknowledge that it can happen to anyone and everyone, and there are components in our control that can help manage and prevent it :)

https://www.darlingdowns.health.qld.gov.au/about-us/our-stories/feature-articles/signs-you-might-be-experiencing-a-burnout-and-how-to-regain-balance-in-your- life#:~:text=Burnout%20is%20a%20state%20of,an%20increasing%20sense%20of%20hopelessness.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/journal/burnout-research

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/preventing-burnout

Many different types of burnout can happen in various settings. You may have experienced some of these:

Sources

Cognition on Canvas: How Visual Art Impacts the Brain

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 22:56:59 GMT

Recently, we’ve witnessed the rise of art therapy, and we hear more and more frequently that art can benefit mental health. What exactly happens in our brains when we consume and create art, and how can this neuroscience inform our understanding of how art can be used to heal? Let’s look at a few studies that aim to answer this question…

What happens when we consume art?

In a 2004 study, Semir Zeki found that when people viewed well-known paintings, an area of the brain called the orbitofrontal cortex was activated. The orbitofrontal cortex involves sensory integration, decision-making, emotional processing, and reward responses. For these individuals, viewing art not only stirred up emotions, it allowed them to access higher-level processing networks in their brains.

Further, in a 2012 study, Edward Vessel showed his participants over 100 well-known paintings and asked them to rank how moving they found each one on a scale of 1 to 4 (4 being the most moving). People differed in terms of which paintings they preferred, but when everyone viewed pieces they had ranked as 4s, the same areas of their brains were activated: the default mode network (DMN). The DMN is associated with self-reflection and recollection of memories. So, while there may not always be a consensus on what “good” art is, people who experience deep emotional reactions to art display similar patterns of brain activity. When we engage with art, therefore, we are also better equipped to engage with ourselves.

Creating art also has a significant impact on the brain. In a 2000 study, Robert Solso and his colleagues compared the brain activity of a professional artist to that of a non-artist while drawing faces. Both people displayed activity in a brain area associated with facial recognition (known as the facial fusiform area (FFA)). Interestingly, though, activity in this area was greater in the non-artist. The artist, by contrast, had greater activity in brain regions associated with higher-level visual associations and interpretations. From this, we see that as people acquire more artistic practice, their brains develop more efficient shortcuts for creative processing. When sketching a portrait, they do not just see a face; they can fully indulge in the thoughts and feelings that creating such a work of art can evoke.

Additionally, drawing and painting activate a reward pathway in the brain. When this reward pathway is activated, dopamine (the chemical most closely linked to motivation and pleasure) surges throughout the brain. A 2017 study by Grijia Kaimal examined both artists and non-artists who completed three visual arts tasks: doodling, coloring, and free drawing. During all of these tasks, participants exhibited heightened activity in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), a brain region involved in emotional regulation and sensory processing. This suggests that making art can be a rewarding experience and improve emotional well-being for anyone, not just artists.

The Benefits of Creating

The Rise of Art Therapy

Creating art in a therapeutic context allows patients to externalize troubling feelings, and it has proven especially effective in children. The foundations of art therapy lie in the assumption of neuroplasticity, the idea that the brain can quite literally be restructured by experience. Art therapy sessions typically begin with art-making and end with a discussion of the artistic process between the therapist and the client.

A common misconception about art therapy is that the art itself should help people express internal conflicts directly. However, in 2012, Ellen Winner and Jennifer Drake found that art-making is actually more effective when used as a form of distraction. To test this, they presented children with a sad film clip after having them complete a mood inventory. Afterward, half of the children were asked to create a drawing reflecting their feelings about the film, while the other half was asked to draw an arbitrary object such as a house. The children then completed the same mood survey as they had before tackling the drawing task. Across all the children, those who engaged in the “distracting” art task, that is, those who drew neutral pictures, experienced a much more significant elevation in mood. This highlights that the purpose of art therapy is not to create images of one’s feelings, but to provide them with a creative outlet that indirectly alleviates negative emotions.

In conclusion…

The cognitive and emotional benefits of consuming and creating art demonstrate that cultivating our creativity is crucial, and art therapy has a promising future. Art facilitates communication, not only between people but within individuals.

Clinician Spotlight: Dr. Carolyn Cassill

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 22:46:29 GMT

In our ongoing series 'Clinician Spotlight', we learn more about all the amazing clinicians here at Newton Neuropsychology Group. In this installment, we sit with Dr. Carolyn Cassill to learn more about her!

How did you end up where you are now?

My mom is a clinical psychologist and does talk therapy with college-aged adults. My entire childhood, I swore up and down that I would never do psychology. In college, I majored in chemistry and then switched to neuroscience, but I was taking so many psychology electives that by my senior year, I finally switched my major to psychology. It took me a while to admit that I really liked psychology, and neuropsychology got me really hooked. I loved the experience of working in labs doing neuropsychology assessments. I worked as a psychometrist back in Texas, and that’s when I became interested in neuropsychology.

I always joke that I have several TedTalks I wish I could give! There are two biases that really come to mind to me. One, a lot of people think that psychology is just laying down on a couch and free association, that Freud style of therapy. So I wish people knew that we are scientists, use standardized methods, and try to be consistent across the field. And I work a lot with kids with autism, so with any neurodevelopmental difference, we focus so much on the weakness and don’t talk about the strengths enough. That having autism or ADHD is not a sign of failure or the end of the world.

What do you wish everyone knew about this field?

How do you like to approach providing feedback?

I really like using techniques from therapuetic assessment. The idea is that a family comes to me with an existing narrative of their child and how they fit into the family unit, and my job is to help rewrite that family narrative so that they can better support their kid. It’s not that your kid is lazy or not trying hard enough; it’s that they may have executive functioning weaknesses, and here is what we can do to help them. And for me, this process starts with the intake. I explain what might be going on or what diagnoses I’m evaluating for, and then on the day of the evaluation, I’ll talk to them about what strengths and weaknesses I’m seeing, and then by the feedback, I confirm that I’m seeing their same kid. I then explain that getting this diagnosis does not change who your kid is; it just changes our ability to help them. They are still that smart, loving, creative child; They can have educational and career goals and successful relationships.

What do you hope clients gain from working with you?

I always hope that they can gain a better understanding of their child, how their brain works and how they learn. But I also hope I’m putting them on a path where they can learn to embrace a lot of those differences. Kids with ADHD can make friends with a rock. A lot of kids with autism have amazing creativity and persistence. It’s great to give opportunities to show us these skills and view these strengths.

Dr. Carolyn Cassill

What have you loved about NNG so far?

The people! I feel like I could have never-ending conversations with everyone and everyone just has so many great personal and professional experiences. Everyone is so friendly it’s really fun! I really enjoy going to work and getting to talk to everyone.

What are some things you like to do outside of work?

I’m a homebody, and I love staying home with my husband and two cats. Sometimes we’re watching TV, sometimes we’re playing video games! I like playing pickleball, and I sing in a community choir. I like little things that help me keep my creativity and different communities and groups of people.

Psychometrist Spotlight: Danyca Santillan

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 22:36:15 GMT

In our ongoing Spotlight Series, we learn more about all the amazing people here at Newton Neuropsychology Group. In this installment, we sit with Danyca Santillan to learn more about her!

What led you to NNG?

I absolutely love the brain and had unwavering goals of pursuing a career in the field ever since I could remember! The only thing was that I wasn’t really interested in research, and as a neuroscience major, that was kind of a nonnegotiable. So as I navigated my way through working in wet labs, I found myself longing to work with other people and have meaningful client interactions. Happy to say that after graduating, I was offered a psychometrist position with Newton Neuro and I truly could not be happier! It embodies everything I could want in a profession; data and research backed practice, but also the face to face interaction in working with people. The bridging of brain and behavior never ceases to amaze me and I’m beyond ecstatic to be here.

I feel so lucky to be surrounded by such wonderful staff and clinicians, the people are what I love most about Newton Neuro for sure! Everyone genuinely wants to see each other thrive. I feel seen as a person and I could chat with everyone endlessly, it makes such a supportive atmosphere! Being around such great company makes me excited to be in the office, it’s increased my passion for the field and has been a huge help in gaining the confidence I needed to take the first steps outside of college. I have a lot of pride in the practice and love being in a place where I know I am supported and valued.

What do you love most about NNG?

What do you hope clients gain from working with you?

My goal when working with clients is that they feel seen, safe, and validated. Testing sessions can be daunting and nerve wracking but my favorite thing is when a client tells me that, “hey, that wasn’t as bad as I was expecting!” For many people, seeking mental healthcare is not linear and often not easy. It’s an honor to be able to be a part of the mental health journeys of so many people! I strive to create a space where clients feel comfortable and more importantly empowered to try their best and voice their thoughts. I want them to leave feeling proud that they’ve come this far in the process of getting to know themselves better.

What do you find most rewarding about being a psychometrist?

The most rewarding thing about being a psychometrist is definitely the people I work with. I love getting to see how people react and respond to tests; no two people come in and work in the same way or have the same conversation with me. It’s incredible, and I feel so privileged to be able to connect with so many people from so many walks of life!

What types of things do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Danyca Santillan

I love living in a place that has different seasons and getting to do all the seasonal activities like ice skating in the winter, picnicking in the spring, tide-pooling in the summer, and apple picking in the fall! But sandwiched between all those things I love being cozy at home. I enjoy reading, crafting, and playing video games, anything that lets my imagination take the reins! I’m a self proclaimed coffee connoisseur, a big fan of f1, and I find a lot of joy in traveling when I can, especially when I can go home to the Philippines.

Clinician Spotlight: Graduate Students!

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 00:13:40 GMT

What did you do at NNG ?

Anna: I worked with older adolescents and adults for neuropsychological testing and individual therapy.

DJ: I’m one of the practicum trainees, in the adult track. So, similar to the other prac students, I saw 1 testing case per week and 1-2 therapy cases per week.

Jordan: I provided neuropsychological assessment for children and adolescents, as well as provided individual therapy.

DJ : I used to work in marketing, and I hated it, so I applied for the PsyD program at William James College. And once I discovered assessment, I just loved it, so neuropsych became my goal.

Anna: I've always loved learning about the brain and human behavior, but I wanted my emphasis to be on clinical work over research.

Jordan: Initially, when entering graduate school, I was primarily interested in therapy. However, I came to love assessment through coursework and additional clinical experiences I sought out. I enjoy learning how different parts of the brain work, analyzing patterns in behavior and cognitive data, and ultimately translating that into better understanding an individual. I think it is transformational to have a comprehensive understanding of a child so that we can utilize their strengths to support areas of need.

What led you to pursue a career path in neuropsychology?

DJ : I have to choose just one? Aside from all the excellent clinical content, I’d say… how to manage my calendar and plan my time independently.

Reflecting on your time with NNG, what’s one thing you’ve learned?

Anna : I learned how to provide clear and effective feedback to clients.

What was the most rewarding thing about working at NNG?

DJ : I used to work in marketing, and I hated it, so I applied for the PsyD program at William James College. And once I discovered assessment, I just loved it, so neuropsych became my goal.

Jordan French

DJ King

Brenna Lincoln

Anna Port

What’s next for you?

Anna: Starting in July I'll be working in Rochester, NY completing my APA internship at Rochester Regional Health's neuropsychology track.

DJ: I matched for APA Internship at the Bedford VA hospital, and then after that, a neuropsych post-doc!

Farewell!

Our Team is Our Backbone

The Neuroscience of Addiction

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 00:01:23 GMT

What is Addiction?

Addiction is a chronic brain disorder characterized by compulsive substance use or behavior despite detrimental consequences.

What Causes Addiction?

Like most disorders, addiction cannot be attributed to a single cause. Studies have found genetic links, suggesting that up to 50% of addiction risk is heritable. However, this isn’t the full picture; someone might have a family history of addiction and never suffer from it themself. Addiction is often associated with personal trauma, as well as mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD.

Why Addiction is Misunderstood

Before we had an understanding of its neuroscience, addiction was a highly stigmatized condition that was seldom regarded as a legitimate disease. Due to their repetitive destructive behaviors, people with addiction were once labeled as simply lacking willpower. Despite substantial advancements in the psychology field, the stigma surrounding addiction remains prevalent.

What Happens in the Brain?

When we look at the neuroscience of addiction, we are primarily focused on the brain’s reward systems. From an evolutionary standpoint, these reward systems have been designed to encourage behaviors necessary for our survival, like eating and drinking. When we engage in a behavior that is good for us, our brains release a surge of dopamine through our reward pathways. You might recognize dopamine as the neurotransmitter associated with happiness, and it is just that.

The problem is that addictive substances (and behaviors) essentially “hijack” our brains’ reward systems. When we take an addictive substance or engage in an addictive behavior, our brains release a surge of dopamine that is substantially greater than that produced by typical natural rewards.

You might be familiar with the concept of neuroplasticity , or the concept that our brains change both functionally and structurally with experience. Over time, addictions form because our brains themselves begin producing less dopamine or reducing the available numbers of dopamine receptors. Because of this, we then need more of an addictive substance to produce the same pleasurable effect. This phenomenon is known as tolerance .

Dopamine isn’t only implicated in reward pathways, but in memory and judgment as well. Addictive substance use becomes a habit via mechanisms in the amygdala and hippocampus , the areas of the brain associated with emotion and memory, respectively. Additionally, addictive substances can compromise the prefrontal cortex , the area of the brain associated with problem-solving and decision-making. Therefore, even though someone might intuitively understand that a substance is bad for them, simply abandoning that substance is not so simple.

Once the brain has adapted to an addictive substance over time, withdrawal can become extremely difficult. Without an addictive substance, the brain does not know how to function without its external source of dopamine, which can result in physical ailments, as well as complications with emotions, affect, and motivation.

What Can Be Done?

Remember neuroplasticity? This is the quality of the brain that allows addiction to take root, but it is also the quality that offers the potential for healing. With appropriate treatment, people with addiction can rewire their brains so that, with time, they no longer need an addictive substance. Common treatments for addiction include: 

Individual therapy — Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is common for helping individuals identify and address potentially destructive patterns in their thoughts and behaviors. Motivational interviewing, in which an individual works with a counselor to explore their feelings toward making changes, is also a typical therapeutic approach.
Group or family therapy — Addiction most profoundly affects the person struggling with it, but it can also place a strain on their friendships and/or familial relationships. Because of this, group therapy sessions are designed to help both the individual with addiction and the overall functioning of the family or friend group of which they are a part.
Medications — Numerous FDA-approved medications address cravings for addictive substances and alleviate withdrawal symptoms. Several include naltrexone for alcohol use disorder and buprenorphine and methadone for opioid use disorder.
Treatment programs — You might be familiar with organized treatment courses such as the “Twelve Steps” of the Alcoholics Anonymous program. These programs are unique in that they provide a community for people struggling with addiction, which can be beneficial for an individual’s motivation and overall social well-being.

Addiction is treatable, but these treatments are not always effective permanently. Since addiction alters individuals’ neurobiology so significantly, it is not uncommon for people to relapse and briefly return to their usual habits. This, however, does not mean that there isn’t hope for their recovery; it is a natural part of the recovery process.

Takeaways

Addiction is not a weakness or a lack of willpower, but a legitimate, chronic brain condition that alters the brain on a chemical level. By understanding the neurobiological mechanisms behind addiction, we can become more compassionate, reduce stigma, and pave our way to effective recovery pathways.

Concussions: More Than Just a Bump on the Head

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 23:53:12 GMT

A concussion may just look like a bump on the head, but it is in fact much more complex than that internally.

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Concussions are a type of traumatic brain injury that affect function. Often, they are caused by an impact to the head, such as during sports injuries, falls, and motor vehicle accidents.

Concussions can cause confusion, headaches, dizziness, nausea, difficulty concentrating, and changes in sleep patterns.

How can we prevent concussions?

There are many things that we can do to prevent concussions. Previous studies have demonstrated, for example, that helmets reduce the risk of head injury by 85%, brain injury by 88%, and severe traumatic brain injury by 75%! Wearing helmets while riding a bike and engaging in high-impact sports can make a HUGE difference in preventing concussions. Also, wearing a seatbelt can prevent traumatic brain injuries induced by cars and is critical!

Taking breaks as needed is also super important, as it can avoid the fatigue that would increase the likelihood of not picking up fully on cues in our surroundings.

Knowing the risk factors, signs, and symptoms can also make a huge difference in preventing concussions and being able to identify them when they come up. Identification is a critical first step in the recovery process. Staying educated always helps :)

And how common are they?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that there were nearly 3 million traumatic brain injury-related visits to emergency rooms in 2014 alone. Yearly, there are typically almost a million children treated for traumatic brain injuries, and rates tend to be the highest in individuals under 4 years of age, 15-24, and over the age of 75.

Why is this important?

Preventing concussions is essential for our brain health, quality of life, safety, and well-being. Concussions have long-term impacts on brain function. Concussions can also lead to symptoms that, in the short term, reduce the quality of life and significantly impact our ability to carry out our routine functions. Furthermore, with concussions, there is a risk of repeat concussions, which can lead to a loss of ability to participate in enjoyable activities and hobbies. Concussions can also impact work or school performance and damage emotional well-being.

In conclusion…

Concussions, while not always, are often preventable, making our role in our brain health significant.

Sources

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/concussion/symptoms-causes/syc-20355594

https://www.aans.org/patients/conditions-treatments/concussion/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7025438/#:~:text=Helmet%20use%20reduces%20the%20risk,the%20lower%20face%20and%20jaw.

Eustress: Can Stress Be Good For Us?

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 02:15:00 GMT

What is “Good Stress”?

In 1974, the endocrinologist Hans Selye created the word “eustress,” combining the Greek prefix “Eu,” meaning good, and the word “stress.” Eustress refers to a type of arousal that is ultimately beneficial for our minds and bodies. While experiencing this type of stress can be challenging, it is manageable, short-lived, and often results in personal achievement or growth.

How Does It Work?

Essentially, when we’re stressed, our brains activate their “fight-or-flight” response. This response is meant to help us in threatening situations, though it can also be evoked by smaller situations. When our fight-or-flight response is activated, the HPA axis (the part of your brain that releases stress hormones) releases a hormone called cortisol. Increased cortisol results in a rapid heart rate, an increase in blood pressure, and more energy in the brain.

So, in certain cases, this stress response can actually be good for us. We might break down this sort of beneficial stress into three categories:

Self-preservation

This refers to emergency situations. Imagine you start crossing the street and a car comes speeding toward you. Immediately, your brain would trigger its fight-or-flight response, and you would most likely jump back onto the sidewalk as fast as you can. Your stress response just saved your life.

Motivation

Stress can be beneficial for us under much less dire circumstances, and in many cases, its effects can be motivating. Suppose you just found out you have a test tomorrow. You will immediately feel a spike in your stress levels, and more likely than not, you’ll be motivated to study hard in the little time you have to prepare. The next day, you will likely perform well on the test. This is because your stress response motivated you to focus deeply and work diligently in order to achieve your desired goal. In fact, the hippocampus (essentially the memory center of your brain) is rich in cortisol receptors, and certain studies have found the presence of a mild stressor when studying for a test can ultimately improve one’s performance. When a short-term situation is high-pressure, our brains rise to the occasion and help us do what we need to do.

Exhilaration

Stress doesn't only arise under unfortunate circumstances! In fact, we experience the same physiological stress response as we might in a negatively-charged stressful scenario. Think about a time you’ve felt excited about an upcoming event, such as the moment you see a friend for the first time after being apart for months. In the moments leading up to this event, you may notice your energy is heightened, you feel jittery, your heart might beat quickly. Some other positively-charged events that evoke a benevolent stress response might include:

Exercising
Going on a date
Traveling to a new destination
Getting married
Buying a home
Riding on a roller coaster
Learning a new hobby
Getting a promotion at work

When Does Stress Become a Problem?

There are several key factors that distinguish positive from negative stress (or eustress from distress).

First, although eustress involves feelings of high arousal that can be challenging, these feelings are usually manageable and dissipate after a key event has passed. Unlike eustress, distress often feels overwhelming, and when we are in distress, we may not feel fully in control of our circumstances.

Additionally, eustress can involve feelings of nervousness or frustration, but these feelings are often coupled with happiness or excitement. Conversely, distress is linked to feelings of high anxiety and low self-efficacy.

Finally, eustress is typically short-lived, our brains are not wired to tolerate long-term stress. Chronic stress is what we’re most likely dealing with when we feel overwhelmed, exhausted, anxious, and burnt-out. This type of long-term stress is what is ultimately detrimental to our physical and mental health.

Takeaways

Eustress is positive stress that can heighten motivation and performance. It is typically short-term, manageable, and linked to exciting or meaningful experiences.
The same stress response that helps us survive emergencies is what enhance our focus and energy in exciting or goal-oriented situations.
Eustress differs from distress in that it is motivating rather than overwhelming, often involves some positive emotions, and doesn't last long enough to cause harm to our overall well-being.