I originally wrote this piece for myself as a kind of journal entry to enable me to make sense of the current political landscape. Since it was drafted, any number of things have emerged that (in my truth) confirm the utility of seeing the world through the lens as…

Today I write about peace.  In this circus of a world we inhabit where not a day goes by without the death of someone's dream, or the shredding of someone's hopes, I think about peace.  The peace of taking a minute out of your day, and sitting still.  Taking in…

For most of us, the holidays are a delightful time to share the joys of family life and friendship. But for many elderly adults in particular, the holidays can be highly stressful, confusing and even depressing if their mental, physical and emotional needs are not taken into account. Kurt Kazanowski, MS,…

Gangs, drive-by shootings, drug sales, school shootings... where does it end? Why does it begin?Parents, peers, caring adults, informed children are all part of the tapestry that will reduce and hopefully eliminate children killing children.What can parents do to keep themselves and their children safe? Recognize that any child from any family…

WHAT IS ALCOHOLISM? Alcoholism is a disease. The person who struggles with the disease truly does struggle. It is important to remember that someone who is drinking in excess is not someone who is happy, rather, someone who is in pain? Emotional pain? Excess alcohol is used as a way…

For many parents, the thought of a child of theirs having a drinking problem is a sheer impossibility. These parents and these children are often quite vulnerable to many things including the disease of alcoholism. Because your child is affected by you, the environment you provide at home, and the…

Parenting is perhaps one of the most difficult and joyful roles many will shoulder. Despite all the advice from all the books and experts - parenting remains a multi-faceted journey. Too often when a parent falters along the road - denial and self-blame become familiar signposts. When a parent learns…

QUESTION: What is a state of being in which no matter what you say, do or think, there will be at least one stranger and one friend who will be convinced that you are doing it all wrong?ANSWER: Being a parent. Being a child.No matter your age or circumstance, you…

Perhaps the most important thing to remember about taking your child to a clinician who specializes in working with children is that your child deserves every tool you can make available to him/her. There can be many reasons for your child to be evaluated - and starting with your pediatrician…

Domestic Violence AwarenessThe Economy Made Me Do It?!By Pamela Brewer, MSW, Ph.D., LCSW-C During times of apparent external stress, such as a perceived economic downturn, victims of domestic violence often find themselves at even greater risk.   During these times it is easy for the abused person to talk herself*  into…