Anxiety
Excessive, irrational worries, phobias, separation anxiety, panic attacks, school refusal, generalized anxiety, or post-traumatic stress.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder / Attention Deficit Disorder
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) – short attention span, trouble concentrating, restlessness, forgetfulness, low frustration tolerance, problems getting along with family and friends, hyperactivity/impulsivity.
Autism / Aspergers Disorder / Pervasive Developmental Disorder
Characterized by deficits in social reciprocity, language, and/or thinking or ability to learn, usually diagnosed in early childhood.
Bipolar Disorder (manic depression)
Characterized by periods of depression alternating with manic, mixed or hypomanic episodes which may include racing thoughts, irritability, euphoric mood, excessive energy, little or no sleep, impulsivity and grandiosity. Bipolar disorder causes uncontrolled and often unpredictable mood swings which can be debilitating.
Bullying, School Refusal, and Peer Relations
Bullying is a form of aggressive behavior that is intentional, hurtful, threatening and persistent. Kids sometimes struggle with peer issues, teasing, feeling left out and we can help navigate the complicated world of school friendships and peer issues. School refusal can be the result of anxiety, bullying, depression or learning difficulties.
Depression
Lasting feelings of sadness, helplessness, hopelessness, unworthiness and guilt, loss of interest in activities, a decline in school or work performance, changes in sleeping and eating habits, and can be accompanied by suicidal/self harm thoughts.
Eating Disorders
Anorexia Nervosa (food restriction), Bulimia Nervosa (binge eating and purging, laxative abuse) and Compulsive Overeating Disorder.
Learning Disorder
Learning disorders affect how a person understands, remembers and responds to new information. People with learning disorders may have reading, math, or writing skills which are much below what is expected for their age, schooling, and level of intelligence. Learning disabilities can be caused by a difficulty with the nervous system that affects the receiving, processing, or communication of information.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Recurring obsessions (troublesome and intrusive thoughts) and/or compulsions (repetitive behaviors or rituals such as hand washing, counting, checking to see if doors are locked) which are often seen as simple tasks, but interfere with an individual’s daily functioning.
Sleep Problems
Sleep problems – insomnia, hypersomnia, night terrors, sleep walking, excessive bedwetting beyond age 5.