An international watch dog group for Psychiatric medications ( CCHR) would like child and teen psychiatrists to answer some very specific questions.

In a  nine year study 20,900 children and teens ages ten through eighteen years old were diagnosed with depression and were prescribed an antidepressant. The study found that the children and teens had FIVE times the suicide rate !

A Harvard Medical School Researcher stated that the above information is why the drugs, medications, have a black box WARNING on them! The group in Prague protested the use of these medications stating the gravely dangerous risk.

Depression affects one out of four youth worldwide and most people do not talk about it. It is a condition that can be treated by: counseling, medication, exercise, CBT therapy, positive thoughts and more.

Teens are afraid to talk about it for fear of a negative stigma from family, peers and friends however it is best to tell your parents or teachers or family so you can get the help you need and feel better !

In some countries over 25% of teens and adolescents suffer from a mental health disorder. The most common diagnosed disorders are anxiety disorders followed by depression and depressive disorders.

Teens are suffering from behavioral disorders and neuronal disorders like autism and aspergers, and Attention Deficit Hypercativity Disorder. Self harm and eating disorders and suicidal behavioral disorders as well. Oppositional defiant disorder and conduct disorders occurred too.

Many children and teens with the above disorders never sought help due to the fear of a stigma.

Research shows that depression is not only a mental disorder. Depression impacts the entire immune system. Depression impacts the heart, sleep, appetite and mood.

There are many combinations of ways to address depression; cognitive behavioral therapy, counseling therapy, exercise, diet changes. There are antidepressants used and be aware of Black Box warnings. Research in the USA show that counseling and psychotherapy should be done with medication for best results.

Twenty years ago depression and other mental health disorders in children were almost unknown and overlooked. Many physicians doubted the existence of depression in children because they believed children lacked the mature psychological and cognitive structure to experience such problems. Depression in children has always been a difficult topic for society, and perhaps even healthcare professionals, to comprehend. Today, however, it is a stark reality today.

Social pressures and expectations are fuelling the rise of mental health problems in children. Childhood seems to be more stressful than ever due to a greater emphasis on exams and grades, the rise of social media and cyberbullying, and the media’s portrayal of body image. I have seen an increase in young clients, especially girls, with emotional problems often caused by increased pressure in the media and advertising to achieve an unrealistic body image, further perpetuated by social media. Girls as young as six are dieting and the number of schoolchildren at risk of emotional problems has risen greatly.

The number of children playing outdoors with friends after school has rapidly declined over the last decade as they spend more time on computers and social media. Young people are bombarded with images and advice from celebrities on how to achieve the “perfect body”. These pressures often cause young people to develop low self-esteem which can lead to depression. Between 10-25% of youth have a diagnosable mental health disorder according to researchers in UK.

Lifeworksaz.com: depression therapy Phoenix, Depression counseling Child Phoenix, Depression counseling Teens Phoenix, Depression Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Phoenix, Adolescent counseling depression Phoenix.

Psychotherapy is a process however it can give you tools to cope and manage your mood for challenging times and teach life coping skills.

CHILD COUNSELING PHOENIX :ADHD, DEPRESSION, ANXIETY, STRESS Phoenix Arizona

I have worked with children five through eighteen and families for the past fifteen years plus and I have worked with : ADHD, Depression, Aspegers, ASD, Bipolar, Anxiety, Trauma, Motivation, Behavioral, Emotional, Sports performance and much more.

There are many components involved in a child’s mental health. The first meeting I set up is an assessment. The Assessment involves a parent or Parents or legal guardian that has a relationship with the child and has insight into the child’s daily behaviors, thoughts, and emotions.

A parent may bring a child in for a variety of issues observed or that was diagnosed at one time, however, I look at emotions and behaviors at home and at school and with peers. I will look at the child’s eating habits as well as the child’s sleep habits. These are just a few things that can contribute to behavioral and emotional issues.

I will look at the family dynamics and the family system at the home. What are the various relationships in the home. How are the relationships between the child and the parents? How are the relationships with the child and siblings? What is the communication like between parents and child? How much time is each child spending with parent or parents?

I also look at your child’s habits. What habits are healthy and what habits need to be modified.

Many children and teens are on social media, texting, and playing video games. There is a great deal of research WORLDWIDE that show a correlation between excess exposure to media and and behaviuoral and emotional issues as well as anxiety and depressed mood. I have seen huge improvements in my office when there is modifications made at home and firm daily boundaries that are set to limit the above.

Does your child or teen express his thoughts and feelings daily in a positive manner or healthy way? If not this is an area that can improve through child/teen counseling as well as through parenting tips. There is a lot of research to show that healthy emotions are expressing feelings and coping with emotions daily not stuffing emotions, ignoring emotions or numbing emotions. If emotions are not dealt with negative results are more likely to ooze out or form. Healthy communication is essential for employment and friendships and long term relationships.

Many children have great parents however they create negative messages they play in their heads all day everyday. Think of a garden where you want to grow beautiful flowers, however, the garden is full of weeds. The flower can not receive the nutrients and the water and the sun because the weeds are taking them and the flower can not grow or blossom. This is like a child’s mind. A child creates his or her own messages. For example

“ I can not succeed”, “ I am not athletic”, “ I am a bad child”, “I am ugly”, “ I can not get a good grade”, “ I am not lovable”, “ I am a loser”, etc. I see this in my office on a regular basis. These thoughts must be addressed before your child can blossom and bloom and create a balanced and happy child. This ties into self esteem and impacts emotions and behaviors and mood. This impacts your child and his future as an adult until it is addressed.

Children and teens have stress from academics and at times they have a learning disability and truly are struggling . Parents can set up a 504 or IEP to address a child that is struggling academically. Parents can obtain additional support like a tutor or a smaller school to address and support one’s child.

Many children are being bullied at school. Children report being bullied : verbally, emotionally, physically, and via the internet or texting. Looking at what is going on at school with peers and friends is vital for a child’s future.

Many children and teens have friendships via online games however they do not have friendships outside of technology. There is a lot of research that shows children and teens without friends become adults that are depressed and have emotional issues. It is important to explore your child’s social issues and social skills so if this is an area for improvement then it will be addressed.

Many children and adolescents are struggling with divorced parents and living in two homes. Many youth struggle with these dynamics. Divorce is one of the most devastating events for a child or teen. Change for children is very hard and can be extremely challenging. Balancing the two households with different rules and parenting styles is stressful for youth. Many children and teens do not see one of their parents at all or with limited frequency even when they live in the same city. Learning how to cope with above is vital.

Children and teens may have medical issues that have been challenging that they need help with and support. Many children have past trauma in their life that needs to be addressed.

Teaching youth how to cope with stressful events and learning how to manage their moods and emotions is very important for balance, health and success.

I work with youth and parents to help the child address many components to create health and success in their lives.

Children and Teens as well as parents can learn how to create a team player environment, how to be thoughtful, how to contribute to the family, how to create a win win environment at home. Teaching children about mutual respect is very important.

There are many other areas that are addressed at the assessment however there are many factors that can contribute to a child’s behavior, emotions and mood.

The best approach is a collaborative positive approach where parents and children are working together to promote health, mutual respect, healthy behaviors, and more with a practitioner that has expertise in areas mentioned above.

There are many reasons a child can be depressed: genetics, trauma, bullying , negative thinking, stress at home, stress at school, irrational thinking, poor sleep, lack of exercise, poor diet, poor self esteem, divorce, abuse, neglect, abandonment, medical issues and more. I look at all these elements to help a child and teen find balance in his life. The above mentioned are vital to help with a depressed mood and other mood related issues as well as emotional and behavioral issues.

Recently a family claims an OTC caused there teen to commit suicide. This was Tamil and it is alleged by the family. The tamiflu warning label states patients may be at risk of abnormal behavior or confusion.  The makers of tamiflu released a statement that said ” neuropsychiatric events have been reported during the administration of Tamil in patients with Influenza, especially children and adolescents. They add patients should be closely monitored for behavioral changes.

This is a tragic event and I pray for the family.

Below is more info on depression symptoms and children and teens. There is a lot of research that correlates using instagram, snapchat, Facebook, social media and being online with feeling depressed and lonely and having an impact on mood it again may not be the only reason however it is one more area that may be out of balance in your child or adolescent teens life.

Children, Teens and young adults are reporting feeling more hopeless and useless between 2010 and 2015. The teen suicide rate also increased during tis time period as well. The National survey accounted for socio economics and different demographics, all ethnic groups, etc. The research was from every type of background. The number of teens with clinical levels of depression rose and was more visible among girls in this large national study.

The largest changes in children and teens lives was the use of social media and smart phones according to researchers in this study. Adolescent teenagers that spent the greatest time on screens being : texting, social media, video games, you tube, internet were also more likely to show depression and have significant risk factors for suicide such as having a plan to hurt themselves or an attempted suicide attempt.

Research shows that social media use leads to unhappiness. The rise in smart phone use and social media are potentially two reasons your teen or child is feeling depressed. Popularity is important to teen girls and girls tend to ruminate more than boys. Rumination can contribute to depression and depressive reports.

A decrease in sleep for girls as well as boys is on the rise due to smartphone and social media use. This is a huge reason why teen mental health is suffering. The blue light from the screens is impacting melatonin rates and making it harder for youth to sleep . Lack of sleep is a huge component for mental health : depression, anxiety, performance, behaviors, moods, relationships and more.

There are many things parents can do to help there children and teens manage there mood and find balance in their lives. Finding a balance is vital for children and teenagers.

Children and teens are using social media to express their deep feelings and fears at times and even let people know they are planning suicide. Parents and friends should not assume they are posting for attention. Recently two teens killed themselves in Colorado after posting suicide plans on their social media accounts . It was to late and they passed.

Children and teenagers need a safe and supportive individual to discuss their daily lives, stress, and problems. www.lifeworksaz.com has been working with youth and families for over 15 years in Phoenix and Scottsdale Arizona. The trauma is great for a teen who loses a friend to suicide.

Social media has created more connections with a click as an alleged friend however it has created fewer relationships that are real where a child or teen can talk to a real loving and supportive advocate.

Children and teens are communicating through : instagram, snapchat, Face book, and more and many times they want people to know how they feel and so they post it.

Child and teen depression is real. Many children and teens have taken their lives due to depression.

Children feel : sad, lonely, and have pain and stress just like adults, however, many children do not have the skills and maturity or the tools to cope with depression.

Experts state social media does not bring people together and many times it simply isolates youth and young adults. Using more than two hours of social media per day doubled the chances a youth or young adult would fill lonely or isolated.

Many children and teens are depressed or have signs of depression. Many children and teens are struggling with : family issues, divorced families, academics, blended families, low self esteem, poor social skills, peer pressure, hormonal changes, grief and loss. Many times teens will stuff their thoughts and feelings . Some teens hide in their room and avoid communication. Some teens are on their Smart Phones, TV, Netflix, and Video games. Too much of anything is not ok and parents can ask themselves is my son or daughter in balance or out of balance with their habits? Below is a story of a Tempe Teen that was depressed and it ended tragically. The good news is there are signs of depression and the sooner one gets help the better. After the article there is a list of some red flags your child may be depressed. There are experts in treating child and teen depression through counseling and therapy and other treatments.

I have worked with thousands of teens with depressed moods and depression. Moving to a new school, change, academic pressure, not getting along with mom or Dad, negative thinking, low self esteem, social dynamics, past challenges are being carried around by children and teens and these items need to be addressed to create health and balance.

A tragedy happened at a Tempe, Arizona High school yesterday . A student athlete committed suicide at a Tempe High school not far from Arizona State University.

Teen and child depression is on the rise and can not be ignored. Depression is not an adult disorder . Millions of children and teen adolescents feel depressed and there are a slew of reasons today that impact a child or adolescents mood.

A child or teen does not have to have had a traumatic childhood in order to be depressed . A teen can have loving parents and spiritual parents and feel depressed.

As a safety measure parents should lock up all pills , medications , guns, knives , blades , weapons at all times regardless of a child’s mood. Parents should lock up all alcohol as well . Parents should monitor social media, smart phones , video game dialogue , texting , and be as involved as they can with their child or teen . Some parents would say it is an invasion of privacy however better safe than sorry . Children state they are excelling in the classroom and passing all classes however parents must still verify and look at report cards and look at missing homework assignments. Teens spend a lot of time w electronic devices and those that are in their room and not communicating daily with parents . They must get off these devices and communicate with parents about their day in detail . If not a parent has no idea why is going on mentally , physically , and emotionally with ones children .

Setting limits and boundaries and requiring family interaction is vital . Spending one on one time with your teen is important and will help find out what is going on in their lives . Make it a requirement before they use their : video games , computers , smart phones etc . Schedule one on one time with each child and this lets them know they are important as well as they are more likely to share information with you than in front of the whole family . Most children will not share their true pain or depressed mood in front of the whole family or at dinner .

I find wonderful children and teens that have very negative thought processes about themselves . Children that are excellent students and athletes still can be very depressed . Many suffer from low self esteem and many suffer from social or peer challenges . Many are depressed about family dynamics and school pressures.

The best approach is to have someone who works w children and parents guide you to help create balance and learn tools to manage depression , anxiety , self esteem, family issues and more .

Teens face a myriad of pressures , from changes in development to questions about who they are and where they are going w peers, school, and their future. The natural transition toward adulthood can bring parental challenges and conflict as the adolescent teen pushes for their independence .

It is not simple to differentiate between depression and teen mood swings . Some teens that are depressed are not sad or withdrawn . Many depressed teens are angry , full of rage , defiant, and irritable and this may be depression.

Some signs of depression but not all seem in teens are: sadness , hopelessness , irritability , anger , hostility , frequent crying or tears , withdrawal from family and friends, loss of interest in activities , change in eating habits or sleep habits , agitation, restless , guilt, worthless feelings , concentrating issues , thought of death, suicidal thoughts and more.

It is best to have a professional assessment from a professional who has expertise in teen and children .

There are many signs that may indicate your teen is down or depressed or is suffering from depression.

Some red flags that should not be ignored are: sadness , crying, tearfulness, hopelessness, a decrease in activities , inability to enjoy activities that were enjoyable.

Low energy, isolation, poor communication and a lack of connection w family and friends is a sign that something is going on that needs attention. Increased irritability and anger and rage are common w depressed children and teens.

Physical complaints : stomach aches , pain , etc are signs your teenmay be depressed. Changes in sleeping habits and or eating patterns is a red flag as well .

Self destructive behaviors, suicidal thoughts, self harming, drug andalcohol abuse are signs your child need help asap!

Parents should seek professional help if any of the above are going onas soon as possible. Depression is a very serious condition that impacts : thoughts, mood,

and behaviors. Teen depression can be treated .

Teens face many stressors and pressures. Transitioning from child to an adult. Figuring out who they are and what they want to do with life . Hormonal changes and wanting to fit in socially are just a few. Teens with depression do not always appear sad. Many teens display anger and irritability and aggression. Long lasting changes in mood, behavior, personality are all huge red flags that your teen needs professional help.

Some common symptoms for teen depression are: hopelessness , sad, blue, loss of interest in activities, withdrawal from friends and family , crying and frequent tears, changes in eating , changes in sleeping, agitation , restlessness, little motivation , lack of energy or excitement , fatigue , difficulty concentrating , thoughts of death , suicide or self harm.

There are many excellent counseling tools to help elevate mood and treat depression. CBT therapy looks at unhealthy thoughts that have no facts to support them and how these thoughts impact mood. DBT has a few elements: awareness/mindfulness, distress tolerance/mood regulation, interpersonal effectiveness. These are all research based and evidence based counseling techniques that have been used for decades with positive results. There are many other effective techniques that can be used to create health and balance for your child or teenager.

Lifeworks Az has a specialization in child and teen depression counseling and therapy, child adolescent counseling, family counseling, family therapy in Phoenix Arizona, Scottsdale Arizona and serves valley wide. See testimonials at www.lifeworksaz.com

Children and teens are using social media to express their deep feelings and fears at times and even let people know they are planning suicide. Parents and friends should not assume they are posting for attention. Recently two teens killed themselves in Colorado after posting suicide plans on their social media accounts . It was to late and they passed.

Children and teenagers need a safe and supportive individual to discuss their daily lives, stress, and problems. www.lifeworksaz.com has been working with youth and families for over 15 years in Phoenix and Scottsdale Arizona. The trauma is great for a teen who loses a friend to suicide.

Social media has created more connections with a click as an alleged friend however it has created fewer relationships that are real where a child or teen can talk to a real loving and supportive advocate.

Children and teens are communicating through : instagram, snapchat, Face book, and more and many times they want people to know how they feel and so they post it.

Child and teen depression is real. Many children and teens have taken their lives due to depression.

Children feel : sad, lonely, and have pain and stress just like adults, however, many children do not have the skills and maturity or the tools to cope with depression.

Experts state social media does not bring people together and many times it simply isolates youth and young adults. Using more than two hours of social media per day doubled the chances a youth or young adult would fill lonely or isolated.

Many children and teens are depressed or have signs of depression. Many children and teens are struggling with : family issues, divorced families, academics, blended families, low self esteem, poor social skills, peer pressure, hormonal changes, grief and loss. Many times teens will stuff their thoughts and feelings . Some teens hide in their room and avoid communication. Some teens are on their Smart Phones, TV, Netflix, and Video games. Too much of anything is not ok and parents can ask themselves is my son or daughter in balance or out of balance with their habits? Below is a story of a Tempe Teen that was depressed and it ended tragically. The good news is there are signs of depression and the sooner one gets help the better. After the article there is a list of some red flags your child may be depressed. There are experts in treating child and teen depression through counseling and therapy and other treatments.

I have worked with thousands of teens with depressed moods and depression. Moving to a new school, change, academic pressure, not getting along with mom or Dad, negative thinking, low self esteem, social dynamics, past challenges are being carried around by children and teens and these items need to be addressed to create health and balance.

A tragedy happened at a Tempe, Arizona High school yesterday . A student athlete committed suicide at a Tempe High school not far from Arizona State University.

Teen and child depression is on the rise and can not be ignored. Depression is not an adult disorder . Millions of children and teen adolescents feel depressed and there are a slew of reasons today that impact a child or adolescents mood.

A child or teen does not have to have had a traumatic childhood in order to be depressed . A teen can have loving parents and spiritual parents and feel depressed.

As a safety measure parents should lock up all pills , medications , guns, knives , blades , weapons at all times regardless of a child’s mood. Parents should lock up all alcohol as well . Parents should monitor social media, smart phones , video game dialogue , texting , and be as involved as they can with their child or teen . Some parents would say it is an invasion of privacy however better safe than sorry . Children state they are excelling in the classroom and passing all classes however parents must still verify and look at report cards and look at missing homework assignments. Teens spend a lot of time w electronic devices and those that are in their room and not communicating daily with parents . They must get off these devices and communicate with parents about their day in detail . If not a parent has no idea why is going on mentally , physically , and emotionally with ones children .

Setting limits and boundaries and requiring family interaction is vital . Spending one on one time with your teen is important and will help find out what is going on in their lives . Make it a requirement before they use their : video games , computers , smart phones etc . Schedule one on one time with each child and this lets them know they are important as well as they are more likely to share information with you than in front of the whole family . Most children will not share their true pain or depressed mood in front of the whole family or at dinner .

I find wonderful children and teens that have very negative thought processes about themselves . Children that are excellent students and athletes still can be very depressed . Many suffer from low self esteem and many suffer from social or peer challenges . Many are depressed about family dynamics and school pressures.

The best approach is to have someone who works w children and parents guide you to help create balance and learn tools to manage depression , anxiety , self esteem, family issues and more .

Teens face a myriad of pressures , from changes in development to questions about who they are and where they are going w peers, school, and their future. The natural transition toward adulthood can bring parental challenges and conflict as the adolescent teen pushes for their independence .

It is not simple to differentiate between depression and teen mood swings . Some teens that are depressed are not sad or withdrawn . Many depressed teens are angry , full of rage , defiant, and irritable and this may be depression.

Some signs of depression in teens are: sadness , hopelessness , irritability , anger , hostility , frequent crying or tears , withdrawal from family and friends, loss of interest in activities , change in eating habits or sleep habits , agitation, restless , guilt, worthless feelings , concentrating issues , thought of death, suicidal thoughts and more.

It is best to have a professional assessment from a professional who has expertise in teen and children .

There are many signs that may indicate your teen is down or depressed or is suffering from depression.

Some red flags that should not be ignored are: sadness , crying, tearfulness, hopelessness, a decrease in activities , inability to enjoy activities that were enjoyable.

Low energy, isolation, poor communication and a lack of connection w family and friends is a sign that something is going on that needs attention. Increased irritability and anger and rage are common w depressed children and teens.

Physical complaints : stomach aches , pain , etc are signs your teenmay be depressed. Changes in sleeping habits and or eating patterns is a red flag as well .

Self destructive behaviors, suicidal thoughts, self harming, drug andalcohol abuse are signs your child need help asap!

Parents should seek professional help if any of the above are going onas soon as possible. Depression is a very serious condition that impacts : thoughts, mood,

and behaviors. Teen depression can be treated .

Teens face many stressors and pressures. Transitioning from child to an adult. Figuring out who they are and what they want to do with life . Hormonal changes and wanting to fit in socially are just a few. Teens with depression do not always appear sad. Many teens display anger and irritability and aggression. Long lasting changes in mood, behavior, personality are all huge red flags that your teen needs professional help.

Some common symptoms for teen depression are: hopelessness , sad, blue, loss of interest in activities, withdrawal from friends and family , crying and frequent tears, changes in eating , changes in sleeping, agitation , restlessness, little motivation , lack of energy or excitement , fatigue , difficulty concentrating , thoughts of death , suicide or self harm.

There are many excellent counseling tools to help elevate mood and treat depression. CBT therapy looks at unhealthy thoughts that have no facts to support them and how these thoughts impact mood. DBT has a few elements: awareness/mindfulness, distress tolerance/mood regulation, interpersonal effectiveness. These are all research based and evidence based counseling techniques that have been used for decades with positive results. There are many other effective techniques that can be used to create health and balance for your child or teenager.

Lifeworks Az has a specialization in child and teen depression counseling and therapy, child adolescent counseling, family counseling, family therapy in Phoenix Arizona, Scottsdale Arizona and serves valley wide.

The suicide rate for adolescent teenagers ages 10-18 nearly doubled from 2006 to 2017… from 5.4 per 100,000 people to 10.5. The rate increased by 40 percent from 2014 to 2017, from 7.9 per 100,000 people to 12.0, before decreasing slightly to 10.5 in 2016. Overall, rates for all age groups have risen from 1999 to 2016.

Teen and adolescent years are extremely challenging for youth. It is important for parents to keep communication open and honest. Talking about your own fears and concerns are important as well.

Understand that teen mental health issues are treatable. Counseling can address many mental health issues as well as a psychiatrist for med management.

Severe changes in your child’s behavior can be a huge indication your child or teen is in need of support from a professional in the field of mental health.

Depression, anxiety, eating disorders, behavioral issues like oppositional defiance, substance abuse, a loss of self esteem, declines in academics, sleep issues and disorders, personality shifts, aggressiveness, excess anger can indicate psychological problems.

For boys aged nine to 15, suicide is now reportedly the second most common cause of death. It is a troubling statistic and one that reflects wider concerns.

Happy children have a better chance of becoming successful children and that’s why we see their emotional development as being just as important as their academic development.

Depression, anger, anxiety, body image, social skills, and self esteem are just a few areas that need to be addressed as well as behavioral and emotional issues.

A study published in Lancet Psychiatry, found that 14-year-old teens who had contact with counseling services had a greater decrease in depressive symptoms than those with similar difficulties but without contact. By the age of 17, the odds of reporting clinical depression were more than SEVEN TIMES higher in individuals without contact than in service users who had been similarly depressed at baseline. This includes other mental health services as well.

Contact with mental health services appeared to be of such value that after three years the levels of depressive symptoms of service users with a mental disorder were similar to those of almost 1000 unaffected individuals.

“Mental health and emotional issues can be painful for children, teens and adults . Research worldwide shows clearly that if we intervene at an early stage, we can see potentially dramatic improvements in teen and child symptoms of depression and reduce the risk that they go on to develop severe depressive illness.

Early prevention and finding balance through counseling, and parenting is vital for success. Looking at : sleep, diet, peers, social, self esteem, exercise, friendships, healthy habits, emotional and behavioral issues must all be addressed to spring board your child or teen into balance and success.

Teens have pain and stress and get anxious and depressed. Many adolescents are stressed about : family relationships, peer relationships, grades at school, about future careers, future jobs, future schooling , college?

Anxiety and depression are on the rise since 2012 as well as self harm. Cutting or self harm is also on the rise among adolescents as well as children. Self harm is on the rise and it is not only girls there is a high level of boys that are participating in s elf harm. Most who self harm are doing so to cope with anxiety and depression of course not all but a lot are coping with anxiety and depression. It is important to discover what is going on that is creating anxiety and depression to help each unique child as well as look at all areas of life that are causing great emotional pain.

Over 3 million teens reported an episode of depression in the past year. Over two million teens reported an incident of depression that impacted daily activities and habits. Almost seven million teens have reported an anxiety disorder. keep in mind this what is reported and there must be figures that are much higher than what is being reported statistically. Experts believe that over 27 million teens have experienced an anxiety disorder or an incident of depression that has impacted their daily functioning.

Adolescent teens have grown up watching terror and have gone through a huge recession. It is hard to get away from all the electronic screens and most media is relaying fear and negative messages to youth. When most youth have at least three screens or more it is hard to shut down the fear based stimuli unless there are strict limits enforced daily. Advertisements are bombarding youth from phones, tv, video games, web sites, movie sites, music sites and it is hard for youth to get away from it all. Most of it induces stress.

Boundaries are not being set and this is creating huge problems in relationships and at school and with mental health. Children are zoning out and parents are zoning out and time spent talking is a commodity.

Teens are stressed about dong well at school and getting into college or having a career or a job. Anxiety is a very big piece of most youths lives today in 2016. On the outside adolescents may present as calm however on the inside is great anxiety and pain.

Online bullying is big and is on the rise so not only can someone bully a child in person they can do it covertly online and cause horrible damage to children and teenagers. Many youth have committed due to bullying recently. Children and teens are cruel and unkind over instagram and show little compassion or kindness at all. Children do not want to go to school and are down and depressed due to the way others are treating them online.

Children and teens are distressed at a high level and mask it with games and music and other distractions. It is vital to talk about their thoughts and feelings daily in depth for their emotional health and physical health. Counseling can provide that balance for mental and physical health. Lifeworksaz.com has expertise in working with youth and families

LIFEWORKSAZ.COM specializes in working with children and teens with : depression, anxiety,mood disorders, and behavioral problems and more.

Teen suicide among girl teens and boy teens is at and all time high. Many teens are feeling worthless and unloved and these thoughts can only feed negative behaviors. Teens need to feel like they are more than their Grade Point Average.

If your child is struggling with : academics, behavior issues, mood issues, depression, anxiety, anger, ADD, ADHD, Defiance, low self esteem, poor communication skills, relationship issues with the family, causing stress than make sure you get your child professional help from one who specializes in children and family issues. www.lifeworksaz.com

Adolescents and children must know they are unique and loved for their personality traits and strengths and not performance alone. Teens are human beings not human doings! All children need and deserve love sweet love. Children must know they have worth not based on perfect behaviors or grades just because they are who they are a special gift to the world. We need to spend time accepting our children and less time judging them. We need to spend more time listening to our children and less time criticizing them and being present with them.

Teens are stressed about dong well at school and getting into college or having a career or a job. Anxiety is a very big piece of most youths lives today in 2016. On the outside adolescents may present as calm however on the inside is great anxiety and pain.

Online bullying is big and is on the rise so not only can someone bully a child in person they can do it covertly online and cause horrible damage to children and teenagers. Many youth have committed due to bullying recently. Children and teens are cruel and unkind over instagram and show little compassion or kindness at all. Children do not want to go to school and are down and depressed due to the way others are treating them online.

Children and teens are distressed at a high level and mask it with games and music and other distractions. It is vital to talk about their thoughts and feelings daily in depth for their emotional health and physical health. Counseling can provide that balance for mental and physical health.

More info below on teens and mood and depression.

Depression is on the rise in the USA among children and adolescents is one of the highest reasons for death among youth in THE USA; AMERICA. This includes Phoenix Arizona, Scottsdale, Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Paradise Valley, Arcadia, Biltmore, and Ahwatukee, Arizona. It has been on the rise for a very long time.

Depression in children and teens is on the rise and depression is the number one cause of disability in the world. The World Health Org states that by 2020 Depression will be the second largest cause of suffering throughout the globe.

In many cases children and adults are taking antidepressants despite studies in many cases stating they are no more effective than a sugar pill ( placebo) and some cases can lead to suicide and in some cases are extremely dangerous. Strokes increased 45% for women on antidepressants in a study with over 136,000 woman.

The journal of the American Medical Association stated” the magnitude of benefits of antidepressant medication compared with placebo increases with severity of depression symptoms and may be minimal or nonexistent, on average, in patients with mild or moderate symptoms. Research shows medication alone is not as effective unless counseling is going on.

There are many studies connecting low cholesterol world wide with the risk of developing depression.

Experts world wide have a variety of reasons and research that supports many rationales behind depression. Many experts believe it has to do with hormones and some believe it is hereditary. It is carried in the genetic code and it is important to look at a family’s history and gene pool to see potential links to depression and bipolar disorders.

Brain inflammation and gut inflammation have links to depression; gluten has been a focal point. Experts believe society and Big Pharma spend all their time focusing on symptoms and there is limited time focusing on prevention. Experts in medicine have made a case for linking gluten sensitivity from many brain disorders like depression and Bipolar disorder. It has also made the link to ADHD, Schzophrenia and epilepsy.

A lack of certain Vitamins like Vitamin D has been connected to increased risk of diseases like depression, bipolar, and many mood disorders. Vitamin D deficiency is not just about an increase in weak bones it is associated with one’s risk for depression!

Above is just one reason why a depressed mood is present in your child, adolescent or an adult. There are many other reasons like sleep habits and diet and negative cognitions, low self esteem, judgmental thoughts, negative thoughts, lack of exercise, trauma, stressors in life from family to work to school to relationships.

Lifeworksaz.com David Abrams has worked with children, teens and adults with depression and bipolar disorders for over 15 years. He uses a wide array of strategies to address the roots of depression to help manage mood and create health and balance in your child or yourself.

Children and teens that spend a great deal of time on : social media, snapchat, instagram, you tube, Netflix, internet sites, hulu, facebook, texting or playing video games are not typically dealing with family and school and healthy habits. Some children may have a balance in their lives however most do not and are far out of balance and need to regain balance for health and success

Child and teen depression is real. Many children and teens have taken their lives due to depression. Children have : pain, trauma, loss, grief, anger, sadness, trauma and depression as well as many other challenges. Children have challenges at school, with family relationships, peer relationships, academics, emotional and behavioral issues.

Children feel : sad, lonely, and have pain and stress just like adults, however, many children do not have the skills and maturity or the tools to cope with depression.

Experts state social media does not bring people together and many times it simply isolates youth and young adults. Using more than two hours of social media per day doubled the chances a youth or young adult would fill lonely or isolated.

Many children and teens are depressed or have signs of depression. Many children and teens are struggling with : family issues, divorced families, academics, blended families, low self esteem, poor social skills, peer pressure, hormonal changes, grief and loss. Many times teens will stuff their thoughts and feelings . Some teens hide in their room and avoid communication. Some teens are on their Smart Phones, TV, Netflix, and Video games. Too much of anything is not ok and parents can ask themselves is my son or daughter in balance or out of balance with their habits? Below is a story of a Tempe Teen that was depressed and it ended tragically. The good news is there are signs of depression and the sooner one gets help the better. After the article there is a list of some red flags your child may be depressed. There are experts in treating child and teen depression through counseling and therapy and other treatments.

I have worked with thousands of teens with depressed moods and depression. Moving to a new school, change, academic pressure, not getting along with mom or Dad, negative thinking, low self esteem, social dynamics, past challenges are being carried around by children and teens and these items need to be addressed to create health and balance.

A tragedy happened at a Tempe, Arizona High school yesterday . A student athlete committed suicide at a Tempe High school not far from Arizona State University.

Teen and child depression is on the rise and can not be ignored. Depression is not an adult disorder . Millions of children and teen adolescents feel depressed and there are a slew of reasons today that impact a child or adolescents mood.

A child or teen does not have to have had a traumatic childhood in order to be depressed . A teen can have loving parents and spiritual parents and feel depressed.

As a safety measure parents should lock up all pills , medications , guns, knives , blades , weapons at all times regardless of a child’s mood. Parents should lock up all alcohol as well . Parents should monitor social media, smart phones , video game dialogue , texting , and be as involved as they can with their child or teen . Some parents would say it is an invasion of privacy however better safe than sorry . Children state they are excelling in the classroom and passing all classes however parents must still verify and look at report cards and look at missing homework assignments. Teens spend a lot of time w electronic devices and those that are in their room and not communicating daily with parents . They must get off these devices and communicate with parents about their day in detail . If not a parent has no idea why is going on mentally , physically , and emotionally with ones children .

Setting limits and boundaries and requiring family interaction is vital . Spending one on one time with your teen is important and will help find out what is going on in their lives . Make it a requirement before they use their : video games , computers , smart phones etc . Schedule one on one time with each child and this lets them know they are important as well as they are more likely to share information with you than in front of the whole family . Most children will not share their true pain or depressed mood in front of the whole family or at dinner .

I find wonderful children and teens that have very negative thought processes about themselves . Children that are excellent students and athletes still can be very depressed . Many suffer from low self esteem and many suffer from social or peer challenges . Many are depressed about family dynamics and school pressures.

The best approach is to have someone who works w children and parents guide you to help create balance and learn tools to manage depression , anxiety , self esteem, family issues and more .

Teens face a myriad of pressures , from changes in development to questions about who they are and where they are going w peers, school, and their future. The natural transition toward adulthood can bring parental challenges and conflict as the adolescent teen pushes for their independence .

It is not simple to differentiate between depression and teen mood swings . Some teens that are depressed are not sad or withdrawn . Many depressed teens are angry , full of rage , defiant, and irritable and this may be depression.

Some signs of depression in teens are: sadness , hopelessness , irritability , anger , hostility , frequent crying or tears , withdrawal from family and friends, loss of interest in activities , change in eating habits or sleep habits , agitation, restless , guilt, worthless feelings , concentrating issues , thought of death, suicidal thoughts and more.

It is best to have a professional assessment from a professional who has expertise in teen and children .

There are many signs that may indicate your teen is down or depressed or is suffering from depression.

Some red flags that should not be ignored are: sadness , crying, tearfulness, hopelessness, a decrease in activities , inability to enjoy activities that were enjoyable.

Low energy, isolation, poor communication and a lack of connection w family and friends is a sign that something is going on that needs attention. Increased irritability and anger and rage are common w depressed children and teens.

Physical complaints : stomach aches , pain , etc are signs your teenmay be depressed. Changes in sleeping habits and or eating patterns is a red flag as well .

Self destructive behaviors, suicidal thoughts, self harming, drug andalcohol abuse are signs your child need help asap!

Parents should seek professional help if any of the above are going onas soon as possible. Depression is a very serious condition that impacts : thoughts, mood,

and behaviors. Teen depression can be treated .

Teens face many stressors and pressures. Transitioning from child to an adult. Figuring out who they are and what they want to do with life . Hormonal changes and wanting to fit in socially are just a few. Teens with depression do not always appear sad. Many teens display anger and irritability and aggression. Long lasting changes in mood, behavior, personality are all huge red flags that your teen needs professional help.

Some common symptoms for teen depression are: hopelessness , sad, blue, loss of interest in activities, withdrawal from friends and family , crying and frequent tears, changes in eating , changes in sleeping, agitation , restlessness, little motivation , lack of energy or excitement , fatigue , difficulty concentrating , thoughts of death , suicide or self harm.

There are many excellent counseling tools to help elevate mood and treat depression. CBT therapy looks at unhealthy thoughts that have no facts to support them and how these thoughts impact mood. DBT has a few elements: awareness/mindfulness, distress tolerance/mood regulation, interpersonal effectiveness. These are all research based and evidence based counseling techniques that have been used for decades with positive results. There are many other effective techniques that can be used to create health and balance for your child or teenager.

Lifeworks Az has a specialization in child and teen depression counseling and therapy, child adolescent counseling, family counseling, family therapy in Phoenix Arizona, Scottsdale Arizona and serves valley wide.

Video Games

Research on Video game and TV watching over the past few decades show that their is a correlation between the time playing video games and watching TV and aggression. Thousands of research study show that the more TV viewing and the more video game the more aggression displayed. Eliminating video games and smart phone games and TV is almost impossible however , setting limits each day on electronic is essential to your child’s success. Children and teens need time to develop: social skills, interpersonal skills, communication skills, conflict resolution, listening skills, problem solving skills, mood and stress management skills, physical exercise and more. It is clear that their is an imbalance in healthy activities for youth in America.

Diabetes and obesity are sky rocketing. Mood disorders are on the rise. Anxiety, depression, and substance dependence are on the rise. Social skills are on the decline. Insomnia is on the rise. Violence and aggression in youth and conduct disorders are on the rise.

Most parents view video games as” entertainment.” their content is not taken as seriously as that of the passive act of watching TV. After all, most adults today grew up playing pong, pac man, asteroids, space invaders, or defender. Nevertheless, what many parents might not realize is that the challenge for many players today is to rack up points by killing prostitutes after having sex with them. Video games have not only become more violent, the characters have become more real, and the effects that they are having on society, specifically women is shocking. Video games have engaged the “once spectator” to actively participate in addictive violence. Recent studies have undoubtedly concluded that the violence and negative reinforcements in video games have not only successfully promoted violence against women by desensitization, but they have also increased aggressive behavior in children and teenagers to a level that has devastated the lives of many.

Many people are shocked to discover that the video game industry is larger than the film industry. The Interactive Digital Software Association reported that video games are “the fastest growing entertainment industry in America, surpassing books, records and movie box offices combined” (Berger 2002).The video game industry projected sales for 2015 will be  128 Billion dollars annually .In 1997 the video and computer game industry generated 16 Billion dollars in economic activity, this does not include computer and video game hardware sales. In the year 2000 it became a 20 billion dollar industry and is still growing considerably (Berger, 2002). IDSA also reported at the time sixty five percent of all Americans age six and older, or about 145 million people, play computer and video games (Berger 2002). The video game industry has increased exponentially since 2002. It is stated that video games, many times is the initial experience that children have with the computer/ technology world. So, if boys tend to be the primary target of the industry, which, they are, what effect does it have on girls. In 2014 the video game industry generated over 103 Billion dollars in one year.

If a child’s interest begins with games. most common computer games involve violence and aggressive themes have the effect of turning girls away from the computers in general. This is one way of keeping women out of power. After all, these are male dominated industries. Since computer literacy is essential in most jobs, people who are exposed to computers earlier in life have an obvious advantage. The boys who outnumber the girls in gaming, will be the men who out-number the women in the business world. This may lead to the girls becoming less interested in the world of computers as a career. Girls are not the only ones who are not enamored with video games. Parents are unaware of the violence that is being reinforced hundreds of thousands of times in their child’s brain.

Teenagers report that 95 percent of the time their parents do not check the ratings or the content of video games being purchased. Ninety percent of parents do not set limits on how much time their child can play video games.

We have seen an alarming increase in violence and school shooting. Shootings at Paucah, Kentucky, Jonesboro, Arkansas, and Littleton, Colorado were all cases where the shooters were students who habitually played violent video games. The bloody game Doom was Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold’s favorite game ( they wounded 23 and killed 13). Two studies examined violent video games effect on aggression related variables. The first study found that real-live violent video games are positively related to aggressive behavior and delinquency. the second study showed lab exposure to a violent video game increased aggressive thoughts and and behaviors. The results are in line with the General Affective Aggression Model, which predicts that exposure to violent video games will increase aggressive behavior in both the short term and the long term ( Calvert, Jordan, Cocking 2000)

A study of about 329 children and media violence was done over a 21 year period by L. Rowell Huesmann at the University of Michigan’s Institute for Social Research. Girls and boys participated. This was one of the few studies that followed children into adulthood, which enabled researchers to gauge the long term effects of televised violence. Men in the top twenty percent on childhood exposure to violence were twice as likely as adults to have pushed, grabbed or shoved their wives. The women who scored in the 20 percent were twice as likely to throw something at their husbands. the study concluded that both girls and boys exposed to a lot of televison violence have a greater risk of spousal abuse and criminal offenses, no matter what they were like as children( Ritter, M., 2003). This study was based specifically on violence, however, most video games today are also including very graphic sexually violent images, which are destroying women and the morality of society as a whole.

The effects of viewing sexually violent images was researched and discussed by Ed Donnerstein, Dean and Professor of Communications at the University of California, Santa Barbara.  In his study, young adults ages 18-20 were shown a one hour documentary on battered women. After watching the film, the viewers showed less empathy toward the victims. They lowered their evaluation on the level of injury that the women received. They also under estimated the level of pain that must have been experienced. Both men and women were more likely to display indifference toward the victims. many blamed the rape on the ladies and believed that the women brought it to themselves. It is clear that watching these images are negative, however, the video game industry uses reinforcement tactics to hook children, teens, and adults making the game, not just interactive but addictive. Violence in America and against women has increased since the rise of video games across the country. These games are highly addictive and use many psychological reinforcement principles to hook children to wanting to continue to play. Many youth are playing video games 40 hours a week.

Violence was declared the number one health problem for women in 1992, sadly, recent studies have concluded that the problem is not decreasing ( Violence, Women, and  the Media, 2000). For example , consider the following statistics: the single major cause of injury to American women is domestic violence, exceeding gang violence, muggings, murders, and accidents ( The Commonwealth Fund, 1993). In the US, one women is raped every two minutes (National Crime Victimization survey, 1996). One in every seven women has been raped in her life time (Daily News, November 18,1998). Also, In America a woman is physically abused every nine seconds ( The Commonwealth Fund, July 1993). In emergency rooms more than one third of American women have suffered physical or sexual abuse ( Sternberg S. 1999) And a staggering thirty percent of women murdered in the US are killed by their husbands, ex-husbands or boyfriends ( national Crime Victimization Survey,1996). Researchers have found that the way the media depicts women influences how women are viewed and treated in society( Violence, Women, and the Media, 2000). For example, many video games are very degrading and often depict women as victims of violence. Also many video games also portray women as sex objects.

In the year 2000 half of the top selling video games contained negative images about girls according to (Children, Now 2000). For example unrealistic body images, high pitched voices,fainting, violence, and provocative sexuality is promoted.

Twenty eight percent of games in a study show women as inferior and powerless. In games like Grand Theft Auto boys are taught women can be treated brutally and this is reinforced in the video game.

Players of Grand Theft Auto get rewarded if they kick and kill the prostitute to death after they have sex with her. Sounds shocking, but it is true and is one of the most popular video games among children and teenagers in the US. After playing for 4-8 hours a day, these acts of violence begin to seem normal.

In the recent shooting at UCSB the 22 year old male stated many phrases in his you tube video regarding slaughtering women and others. He also stated that video games were a way for him to avoid: rejection, loneliness, humiliation, depression, and pain from not having a girlfriend and not having what he wanted sexually and in  relationships. The UCSB shooter mimicked many specific phrases from the video game World Of War Craft relating to specific violence and rage. The UCSB shooter also played: Diablo, and Halo as well as many other video games.

Anders Breivik, the right-wing extremist who has confessed to killing 77 people during a murder spree in Norway last summer, played the violent computer game World of Warcraft nearly seven hours a day for several consecutive months before his attack, prosecutors say.

Breivik, 33, already known to have a long history with the online role-playing game, was particularly absorbed by it between November 2010 and February 2011, when he played for an average of 6 hours and 50 minutes per day, according to prosecutors.

Two decades of research had shown that repeated exposure to violence blunts emotional reactions and makes people less likely to help others in need ( Levine, 1996). Perfectly normal people no longer recognize violence because it is so prevalent in the media. People grow numb to violence with repeated exposure via media. People become less responsive to human pain and begin to lose awareness of what it means to be human.

Before the Vietnam War, fewer than 20 percent of soldiers on the front lines would actually fire at the enemy, however, with games such as Doom used as conditioning tools fdor the soldiers, the US military kill rate increased to (0 percent in Vietnam. With video games, our military scientifically overcame the soldier’s innate resistance to killing ( game Over, 2000) Violent video games are the mental equivalent of putting an assault rifle in the hands of every American child. By sitting mindlessly, killing countless thousands of fellow members of their own species without any ramifications or repercussions, operant conditioning concepts transfer immediately when the individual gets a real weapon in their hand and are being taught violence. The recent school shootings in 2008 and 2007 serve as an example of a link between video games and heightened aggressive behaviors.

For the video game child/ teenager or gamer, beating a previous high score, or winning a free game, or having sex with a prostitute is all part of Skinnerian reinforcement. behavior that is followed by reinforcement will increase in frequency. In short, video games that make a child or teen or adult feel good will be played again and again. A partial reinforcement schedule will lead to behavior that occurs more often with and is more resilient to extinction than does a continuous reinforcement schedule. These two effects of partial reinforcement produce what is considered addictive behavior. These irregular schedules of reinforcement are in part, what cause these video games to be so exciting and desirable. Tis kind of reinforcement, which causes addictive behaviors can explain why their is an increase in the video game industry as a whole.

The AMA states that anywhere in the world where TV appears, 15 years later the murder rate doubles. Ten thousand murders per year, 70,000 rapes, and 700,000 assaults. We must consider the impact of violent video games on the minds and behaviors of our society. The evidence is clear violence breeds more violence in the majority of situations.

Many children are having challenges sleeping at night and have great anxiety. The children report that their nightmares are specific to the video games they are playing. Research shows a lack of sleep impacts: mood, anger, depression, and behavior as well as performance.

The 93 Billion dollar Video game industry must be taken seriously. It must start with education and healthy parenting. It must come with boundaries and limitations. It must come with healthy communication and listening to children and teenagers. It must come from healthy role modeling from parents. The video game industry is no different than access to violence on TV or on the internet. Violence and abuse physically, mentally, emotionally, and sexually is not ok!

There are 100’s of violent video games out there one is: Call of Duty Black Ops:This gritty, extremely violent military first-person shooter (pictured above) involves constant killing using realistic weapons, with blood and gore pouring across the screen during more intense scenes. Cinematic sequences can be even more dramatic and graphic, with soldiers and civilians alike dying in horrible ways, including graphic melee kills, people burning to death, civilians killed in crossfire, torture, and a shipping container filled with rotting corpses. In one scene, the player steps into the shoes of a villain and goes on a murderous rampage against soldiers, the screen turning red with blood rage as he takes damage. This M-rated game also has frequent profanity, some sexual themes, and drug use.

Do you want your child assaulting woman? Killing prostitutes? Raping people? This is what is going on in many video games above and beyond brutal violence.

Do we really want our children actively involved and engaged in violent games daily; the same type of games that the US military uses to increase kill rates at war? Garbage in garbage out. We must find healthy activities that create health and balance for our youth and violent video games is not the solution.

Written by David R Abrams

MAPC, LPC, CAGS

Lifeworks AZ  Phoenix Arizona, Scottsdale Arizona

Child Teen Family Counseling and Therapy

Over 118,000 children have been discharged from hospitals with a diagnosis of suicidality or intent for self harm from 2007- 2015 in The United States of America. Children below the age eleven represented over 15,000 of the discharges. Out of the 118,000 youth over 59,000 youth between the ages of 15-17 were discharged. Thirty five percent plus were between the ages of twelve and fourteen in a study done on children and depression and children and suicide.

Depression and suicidal thoughts in the summer in the month of July decreased when looking at the year from a month to month perspective . Children and teens suicidal thoughts increased in frequency around the same time that school typically started up again.

There are many reasons a child could be depressed or have suicidal thoughts: divorce, bullying, change in school, family challenges, physical abuse, sexual abuse, family violence, family history of depression and mental health issues, family conflict, socio economic factors, substance abuse issues in the family, poor communication, poor self esteem, negative thinking, emotional and behavioral challenges, learning hurdles, school stress, academic stress, social stress, relationships at school, relationships in general, family stress, identity issues, puberty, cyberbullying and more.

Parents can become more aware that their child is depressed and can take action. Parents recognizing symptoms like the following but not limited to these are red flags to get help: isolating behavior, loss of joy, angry all the time, change in sleep habits, change in eating habits, spending less time with family, spending less time with peers or friends, shutting down and not communicating, feeling sad, feeling down, crying , suicidal thoughts, self harm behaviors, giving things away, feeling helpless, feeling hopeless, finding no motivation or joy in school or activities outside of school, negative self talk, and many more symptoms are red flags that your child needs professional help as soon as possible!

Over 20 Million children are on psychotropic medications. These medications may create a change in emotional state and this may reduce a child’s impulse control, HOWEVER, this also could contribute to suicidal urges in youth, children, and teens and is recognized by pharmaceutical companies on their packaging and with Psychiatrists, Psychologists, and Psychotherapists. David

There are many evidence based techniques that can help with mood issues: EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, DBT, and more that created desired change. David Abrams MAPC, LPC specializes in working with youth and families and helps find balance and health at home and at school as well as looking at self esteem, behaviors, communication, respect, academics, and more learning tools to find success.

Lifeworks AZ: Lifeworksaz.com has been working with children and families treating depression and more for over ten years. For more info go to the web site lifeworksaz.com David R Abrams MAPC, LPC, CAGS. David specializes in children, teens and family mental health issues.