The Calm Empowered Parent Podcast Interview
This summer, I joined Dr. Jessica Patel and host Vanessa Callaghan of The Calm Empowered Parent Podcast to discuss the assessment process.
Empower LEP Podcast Interview
In June of 2024, I sat down with host Jana Parker of the Empower LEP Podcast to discuss my transition from working in the schools to starting EmpowerEd Psychological Services. During the episode, I discuss the “why” behind my decision to work as an independent Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP) and share my passion for helping families understand and navigate the school system without the red tape often encountered as a district employee.
What is Pervasive Demand Avoidance (PDA)?
Pervasive Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a term used to describe a specific profile within the autism spectrum characterized by an extreme avoidance of everyday demands and requests. Individuals with PDA often exhibit a complex and distinctive pattern of behaviors that go beyond typical autism traits, such as social communication difficulties and repetitive behaviors.
What is Autism Masking?
Autism masking, also known as camouflaging, is a phenomenon where individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) consciously or unconsciously hide or suppress their autistic traits in social situations. This masking behavior can be a coping mechanism developed by individuals with ASD to fit in, avoid social rejection, or navigate social interactions more easily.
How LEPs Support School Districts
Licensed educational psychologists (LEPs) play a vital role in assisting school districts in ensuring the well-being and academic success of all students, particularly those with special education needs.
Diagnosing Anxiety & Depression Disorders
Evaluating and diagnosing major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders involves a comprehensive assessment by a mental health professional. Here is an overview of the process of evaluating and diagnosing these common mental health conditions.
What is the DSM-5?
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), is a comprehensive classification system published by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) that provides criteria for the diagnosis of mental health disorders.
Why are SOS (Signs of Suicide) Programs so Important?
An SOS (Signs of Suicide) program is a suicide prevention program designed to educate and empower individuals, particularly students, to recognize the warning signs of suicide and take appropriate action to help themselves or others in crisis.
Anxiety & Depression Symptoms by Age
Major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders are common mental health conditions that can affect individuals of all age groups. Here is an overview of the symptoms of these disorders in different age groups.
Common Treatments for Depression
Depression is a serious mental health condition that can significantly impact an individual’s well-being and quality of life. Effective treatment is essential in helping manage symptoms and improve mental health. This overview will discuss common treatment options for depression, focusing on adolescents, and highlight evidence-based approaches that have been shown to be effective in certain situations.
Depression in Adolescence
Depression is a pervasive mental health condition that can significantly impact adolescents as they navigate the complexities of adolescence. This overview will delve into the prevalence of depression in adolescence, with a focus on the effects of social media and other key components of society today, as well as the gender differences in prevalence rates among girls and boys at various ages.
Common Treatments for Anxiety Disorders
Treatment for anxiety disorders, including Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), typically involves a combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. It's important to note that treatment plans should be tailored to each individual's specific needs and the severity of their symptoms.
What is Depression?
Depression is a common and serious mood disorder that affects how an individual thinks, feels, and handles daily activities. It is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable.
Anxiety in Adolescence
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a prevalent mental health condition among adolescents. This overview will explore the effects of social media and other key components of adolescence, as well as the gender differences in prevalence rates among girls and boys at various ages.
What is Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a common mental health condition characterized by excessive and uncontrollable worry about a wide range of everyday concerns.
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that affects how individuals perceive the world, communicate, interact with others, and engage in social relationships. ASD is characterized by a wide range of symptoms, behaviors, and challenges that can vary significantly from person to person.
What Are Common Supports For Autism?
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how individuals communicate, interact with others, and experience the world around them. In the educational environment, supporting students with autism is crucial to ensuring their academic success, social development, and overall well-being.
What is a Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP)?
A licensed educational psychologist (LEP) is a professional who specializes in understanding and addressing the psychological aspects of learning and education. These professionals typically hold advanced degrees in psychology, educational psychology, or related fields, along with state licensure or certification to practice within a specific jurisdiction.
Gaining SAT & ACT Accommodations
Obtaining accommodations for standardized tests like the SAT or ACT is a crucial process for students with disabilities or special needs to ensure they have a fair opportunity to demonstrate their abilities.
What Are Common Supports For Dyslexia?
Supporting students with dyslexia in the school setting is essential to help them succeed academically and thrive in their educational journey. Schools play a crucial role in providing appropriate interventions, accommodations, and support services to meet the diverse needs of students with dyslexia.