ABOUT ME
Hi, I'm Suzanne, a pediatric mental health specialist (PMHS) and a pediatric nurse practitioner (CPNP) with almost 20 years of pediatric experience. I am passionate about raising awareness and providing support for mental health issues in young individuals. My hope is to provide resources and guidance to help navigate the mental health needs of children and teens.
I currently support children and teens, along with their families in rural areas. The lack of resources available to many individuals struggling with mental health disorders is something I am reminded of on a daily basis. I recommend many of the resources provided on this site, as well as creating workbooks for the child and adult to work through together. Collaboration is crucial. When the family and child work together they reinforce therapeutic strategies, increase motivation, support the child's well-being, boost confidence, and empower family units. In turn, this leads to long-term success of the child.
I understand caring for the mental health of adolescents can be an overwhelming challenge. Many do not know where to start, what to do or who to talk with when navigating the needs of their children. I have compiled some resources that address the unique mental health needs of children and teens. From eBooks to other helpful resources, I hope to guide parents and guardians on their journey to finding the right care for their child.
Local Help
I recommend speaking to your child's primary care provider as well as your child's school counselor or psychologist. They can help with local resources and referrals if needed. Psychology Today allows you to search your area to find a therapist or psychiatrist. American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health America have similar search features with additional supportive resources.
Helpful Websites
There are many helpful websites on adolescent mental health. Here are a few I recommend:
The Mindful Family
I have created helpful workbooks for the adult in the child's life as well as the child to work through regarding sadness, worry, feeling down, angry and/or low self-esteem. These books help understand the why, when and where of your child's emotions. They provide collaboration, strategies, and coping tools to utilize while seeking other professional help. They are listed above.
Crisis
If your child is in danger to self or others, please call 911 or utilize your closest emergency room. If your child is in a crisis, the child or you may call or text 988 which is the national suicide and crisis lifeline. Help is available.