donna's blog

The best work starts with a simple assumption: young men are not a problem to solve. They are people to understand. Effective support respects their autonomy, takes their concerns seriously, and offers clear ways forward without shame. Trust often grows when the setting feels calm and human. Start with trust before trying to create change Many young men have learned to be cautious about vulnerability. That does not mean they refuse help. It may mean they test whether help is

College Life College life is often characterized by a whirlwind of classes, social events, and newfound independence. This hectic lifestyle can lead to a common stereotype: college kids are flaky. But what are the reasons behind this perception? Here are a few key factors: 1. Overcommitment Many college students juggle multiple responsibilities, including coursework, part-time jobs, and extracurricular activities. This overcommitment can make it challenging to follow through

Some kids move through the day as if a camera is pointed at them all the time. They notice who looked over when they dropped a pencil. They replay the way they answered a question in class. They wonder if their laugh sounded strange, if their clothes looked wrong, if a teacher’s neutral face meant disappointment. Even small choices can feel public and loaded. Hyper self-conscious kids are not being dramatic. Their minds are working hard to predict judgment before it happens.

Poppy In my work with clients, I've often encountered a deep sense of cynicism. Why wouldn't they feel this way? They were born into a world forever changed by events like 9/11. My daughter, born in 2001, missed much of her college experience due to COVID-19. Now, she faces a daunting job market and overwhelming debt in a world that feels increasingly flat and uncertain. Understanding Their World How can I help them make sense of it all? I often find myself wishing I could te

Many therapists have "branded" their practices: Winding Road, Finding Yourself, Path to Fulfillment, Thoughtful Change, etc. etc. Nice, calm and creative names. They have a blog and a podcast. They pitch themselves on Youtube. What does it all mean? To be honest, I'm not sure. I just finished reading "Maybe You Should Talk to Someone" and it was good. Better than I expected in this hallowed Irvin Yalom corner of the world where therapy becomes the drama for a book, filled w