Nakya Reeves, LMFT cited in Ebony Magazine article - "16 Rules for Back to School"

Just in time for the back to school season, Ebony Magazine has released an article, "16 Rules for Back to School" by Nina Malkin, in their August 2015 issue - in which I had the pleasure of being cited as an expert source! The article is a wonderful aid for parents who are getting ready for the upcoming school year, whether dealing with first time Kindergarteners or children who transitioning back into the groove. "Ebony got together with experts, bloggers, and real parents like you, culling their best tips and techniquest to make the school year as easy as A-B-C" (quote from the article).

It covers helpful routines, handling the morning, what to do about bullying, learning challenges, and more! I was able to give a little insight that relates to the issues I encounter with families I see in therapy.

Here's a little of what I had to say for the article:

CST Recommendation: Film, "Depression: Out of the Shadows"

During my time working at an inpatient treatment facility for substance-using teens, I spent a lot of time looking for videos to show them. One particular day, I found this film at a local library, "Depression: Out of the Shadows" and I was so happy I did! It's a very informative film, but despite its educational format, most of the teens were glued to the screen.

Parents Using Public Shaming As Discipline: What Are The Implications?

There has been a lot of buzz online lately regarding the topic of using "public-shaming" as a method of disciplining children. Videos are going viral every few days, and they seem to be holding the attention of most of the nation. The videos typically depict a parent announcing to watchers what their child has done - skipping class, smoking marijuana, getting bad grades, etc - and the parent is inflicting some form of punishment as a response to the child's actions. The "public shame" comes in as parents begin to yell at their child, putting them down, cutting their hair in an unfashionable style, and more. The purpose being to embarrass the child for the world to see, with the hopes that the child will now regret their choice and correct their behavior. Some videos show parents stating this in so many words, "You have embarrassed me (the parent), so now I will embarrass you (and show this humiliating moment to your peers and the world)."

This trend seems to have caught wind and is taking off in a major way; however, many questions have also begun to arise: How effective is this new form of public-shaming as a discipline method? Is it right? What are the boundaries? And quite often - Since it is illegal to hit your children, will this work instead?

In today's world, discipline can be a major challenge for families. Most of the population requires two income-earning parents to make ends meet, and for single-family homes, long hours leave little time and energy for addressing disciplinary concerns. Every family experiences their own challenges and it often becomes necessary to look for new and creative ways of effectively guiding children towards positive decision-making. As a family therapist, I regularly hear parents voice their concern regarding the lack of viable options when providing negative consequences; they either feel consequences do not work long term or they have not yet found something valuable enough to motivate their child to make improvements. 

Regarding this new fad of "public shaming videos", there are a few very important factors to consider first:

• You're Behaving Just Like a Bully - social media is a tool often used by bullies. You do not want to emulate the adolescent behavior your child encounters with peers on a daily basis. As a parent, you want to stand out as an authority figure, not descend to the level of an immature child. Children either experience or witness online bullying every day, and Public Shaming feeds into this negative cycle
• Online Posts Last Forever - once you post a video, tweet, image, etc, it's online for good. A video can be shared to sites you are not even aware of, and once your moment of anger has passed, you've put out a lasting negative image of your child that will not go away. Long after your child's behavior has been corrected, the image could come back to haunt them. How would you feel if your biggest mistake was being viewed and scrutinized by thousands (sometimes millions) of strangers? If someone wanted to insult your child by calling them a thug,drug abuser, or worse, they would be justified in doing so through means provided by the child's own parent
• Adolescence is the Worst Age for Shaming - during teen years, we are forming who we are. Our sense of self can be very unstable and these uncertainties can cause an increased amount of insecurities. This is the worst time for feelings of shame and embarrassment, as situations can cause your child to incorporate these negative experiences into their sense of identity. Teens put a great deal of importance on reputation and videos of this nature can cause damage that is perceived as unfixable, which in turn can cause feelings of overwhelm and depression

Some parents will agree that this form of discipline is not a viable option, but ask (rightfully so): "Then what options do I have?" 

• Increase the Fun and Enjoyment So There's Something to Take Away - make sure to spend a good amount of time doing fun activities as a family and letting your child socialize with peers. Your child will be motivated to correct a problem when they feel there is something good to return to. Quite often, children have revealed in therapy "I don't care if they put me on punishment; I hardly do anything anyway."
• Don't Discipline Your Child When You Are Angry - if you need to, separate yourself from the situation and come back when you feel calm. Decisions made in a time of anger are often negative and we perform actions we later regret
• Get a Long Term Plan - while discipline is ideally consistent and timely, if you are truly uncertain about what to do, leave it alone for the moment. Get a long term plan. Involve yourself in therapy, parenting classes, parenting groups, online support groups, and more. There are resources out there for you to get the support you need. Parenting classes are not taken because someone is not a "good" parent; the purpose is to provide families with effective tools to address the challenges that will inevitably arise. It's like adding tools to your tool belt. You want as many ideas and options as possible, in order to find the right balance for your family

What are your thoughts? Have you seen Public Shaming Videos in your social media feed? What reaction do you have?

- written by Nakya Reeves, LMFT. I am a therapist and owner of a private practice where my main focus is working with families on communication issues, especially the parent-teen relationship. I also utilize PhotoTherapy techniques in my practice, which integrates bringing in photos that the client has taken or collected as a part of the therapy process. I can be contacted any time at csolutionstherapy@gmail.com

3 Major Issues Teens Deal with in Today's World: From a Therapist

 

 

I own a private practice in South Florida and one of my specialties is working with teens and their relationships with their parents. Because of my work, I have encountered teens who are dealing with issues such as depression/bipolar disorder, self-harm/cutting, substance abuse, and symptoms from an experienced trauma. No matter what mental health issues a teen is dealing with, there are always common issues across the board. The top three issues I've seen arise the most are:

Create a Healthy Support System to Reduce Depression Symptoms and More

Sometimes the best thing for our mental health is our support system. What does yours look like? 

Having an adequate support system can help maintain good mental health in many ways, to name a few:

- having a healthy social life gives you options for things to do, rather than sitting home ruminating on negativity and reinforcing depressive thoughts 

- being responsible to a group of people who will be contacting you, looking for you, or in physical contact with you keeps you motivated to take care of yourself (something that depression can take away)

- your support system is a resource network: you never know what helpful resources your friends and family may connect you to, unless you ask. Whether it be financial, emotional, etc 

- and, we all need someone to talk to! 

Holding in emotions and thoughts leads to a destructive cycle, escalating the level of depression or anxiety. 

- written by Nakya Reeves, LMFT. I am a therapist and owner of a private practice where my main focus is working with families on communication issues, especially the parent-teen relationship. I also utilize PhotoTherapy techniques in my practice, which integrates bringing in photos that the client has taken or collected as a part of the therapy process. I can be contacted any time at csolutionstherapy@gmail.com

Is My Relationship Healthy? Recognizing a Toxic Relationship and What to Do About It

Oftentimes clients come to therapy because they have choices to make. Something does not feel right in their life, and they needs the time and space to figure out what to do about it - and sometimes IF there is even something that needs to be done.

A common question I have seen clients deal with is: "Is my relationship healthy?" There is a line that separates normal relationship ups and downs from behaviors that are damaging and unhealthy. How can you assess where your relationship falls?

In determining this, here are a few things to think about (and remember, these points are valid in any relationship. Romantic relationships are not the only types of relationships that can be toxic):

• Take a look at your everyday life, and weigh out if the relationship is draining you of energy or resources. You should be receiving more energy from your relationship than you are exerting.
• When it comes to your private life, take an honest assessment of the things you are doing "in the name of love." Are you doing things you are uncomfortable with admitting to? Can you readily admit to your actions to the people who know you best and care for you? This can be a red flag because love should not humiliate us.
• Look at your future goals and aspirations. If you are not pursuing something you want in life (a job, a move, another friendship/relationship) because it threatens the relationship in question, then this is a sign that something is very wrong. Healthy relationships allow for growth

If you notice that you are in a relationship that you need to disconnect from, it can be hard to break out of old habits. Here a few suggestions for creating positive change:

Featured on the TV Show Fatal Attraction on TV One!

A few pictures from this weekend shooting for the show, Fatal Attraction - TV One 

I flew to the Midwest to give commentary on a very interesting murder case, from a therapist's perspective. It was a great experience! It was a quick trip, but I enjoyed speaking on the relationship dynamics of the people involved in the case - very explosive things come into play when there are unhealthy behaviors, betrayal, dishonesty, and jealousy. 

I can't say much more than that for now. The episode will likely air this Fall, I will keep you posted!! 

- written by Nakya Reeves, LMFT. I am a therapist and owner of a private practice where my main focus is working with families on communication issues, especially the parent-teen relationship. I also utilize PhotoTherapy techniques in my practice, which integrates bringing in photos that the client has taken or collected as a part of the therapy process. I can be contacted any time at csolutionstherapy@gmail.com

CST Book Recommendation: Should I Stay Or Should I Go?

I always suggest books, movies, and activities to clients as a supplement to therapy. They are a great way for clients to solidify and continue the changes we are discussing in session. This book has been a GREAT tool for clients. It is by one of my favorite self-help/therapy topic authors, Lundy Bancroft - along with JAC Patrissi. When I looked it up on Amazon to make the suggestion, I found the perfect synopsis -  the authors "offer a way for women to practically take stock of their relationships and move forward-with or without their partners.

Women involved in chronically frustrating or unfulfilling relationships will learn to:

-Tell the difference between a healthy-yet-difficult relationship and one that is really not working

- Recognize the signs that their partner has a serious problem

- Stop waiting to see what happens-and make their own growth the top priority

- Prepare for life without their partner-even as they keep trying to make the relationship work" 

I suggest keeping a journal while reading books, especially one this thought-provoking and engaging. If anyone has read this book, or plans to, I would love to hear about it!

- written by Nakya Reeves, LMFT. I am a therapist and owner of a private practice where my main focus is working with families on communication issues, especially the parent-teen relationship. I also utilize PhotoTherapy techniques in my practice, which integrates bringing in photos that the client has taken or collected as a part of the therapy process. I can be contacted any time at csolutionstherapy@gmail.com

Parents - What if You Could Set Your Phone to: Call Me if the Liquor Cabinet Opens?

#CSTrecommendation for Parents - Apps that help you monitor your home!

Technology is amazing. There's an app for just about everything, whether useful or completely pointless but entertaining. Every once in a while, there's something I see that grabs my attention and I think, "This would be great for a client!" 

Feature in Article for Woman's Day Magazine - "9 Things You Should Never Ask of Your Husband"

I was recently interviewed for an article appearing on WomansDay.com! The article deals with expectations in a marriage, and ways we can balance these expectations with the conflicts that arise in a relationship. Myself, and other professionals weigh in on this topic and share some advice from a mental health/therapy perspective.  See the Article Here On Woman's Day - and I will also provide a little information here!

The 9 Things Are:
1. To choose between you and his mother
2. To listen to you like a female friend would
3. To never notice another woman
4. To give up his passions, whether professional or personal
5. To be a different man
6. To stop seeing his friends
7. To remember every moment in your relationship that was special to you
8. To share all of your interests
9. To be the bigger person when you're acting childish

Here are examples from two of the places I am quoted (but I encourage you to read the entire article! Very constructive advice):

It's natural to occasionally wonder why did I marry this person? after many years together. But remember that a trait you loathe in your husband may be the flip-side of one you love, says South Florida–based licensed marriage and family therapist Nakya Reeves. Say your spontaneous husband has trouble staying on schedule. Reeves suggests picking your battles: You may really need him to pick the kids up on time, but let his habit of being late for dinner go.

As for the truly crucial tasks, "explain to him where the duty fits in for the family's overall plan for the day; then, discuss your responsibilities," Reeves advises. "That way, he feels like he’s a part of the decision to take accountability for picking up the children, rather than simply feeling he’s being nagged."

Giving silent treatment and withholding affection (especially sex) in order to get your way is juvenile and counterintuitive: Instead of reacting to you, your husband will likely retreat. Being passive-aggressive “is one of the most destructive forms of relationship communication— it creates a negative cycle that only gets worse and creates anger and resentment," Reeves explains.

If you feel like your husband owes you an apology, don't make your feelings sound less important than they are (passive), and don't attack him (aggressive)," Reeves says. "Instead, be assertive with an "I statement"—"I feel hurt when you ignore me because it makes me feel like you’re not taking into consideration what I have to say. I feel I deserve an apology for the way you dismissed me yesterday at dinner; next time, could you please acknowledge me?"

 

 

- written by Nakya Reeves, LMFT. I am a therapist and owner of a private practice where my main focus is working with families on communication issues, especially the parent-teen relationship. I also utilize PhotoTherapy techniques in my practice, which integrates bringing in photos that the client has taken or collected as a part of the therapy process. I can be contacted any time at csolutionstherapy@gmail.com

Homework Assignments in Therapy

To get the most out of therapy: Do your homework!! Hearing helpful information and making thoughtful breakthroughs only go so far as your ACTIONS. Make sure to work in between sessions & get the most out of your experience 

- written by Nakya Reeves, LMFT. I am a therapist and owner of a private practice where my main focus is working with families on communication issues, especially the parent-teen relationship. I also utilize PhotoTherapy techniques in my practice, which integrates bringing in photos that the client has taken or collected as a part of the therapy process. I can be contacted any time at csolutionstherapy@gmail.com

Open House Jan. 23rd!

Our office is having an Open House tomorrow evening!! If you are a professional in the South Florida/Broward County area we invite YOU to come out and join us! It will be a great opportunity to tour our new office and mingle with other professionals. We will have food, gift bags & a raffle for a special giveaway. If you know someone who would like to attend, pass the info along! Email me csolutionstherapy@gmail.com for any questions!

7520 NW 5th Street, suite 206

Plantation, FL 33317

Killing Your Child's Spirit and Confidence With Your Words?

I saw a woman outside the grocery store a few months back, and it stuck with me to this day. She was standing there, talking down to her son in such a horrible way.. She wasn't even yelling and yet it broke my heart. He appeared to be in his early teens. Maybe 12 or 13, unsure of himself, and growing more and more embarrassed by the second. He couldn't do anything about it, and he knew..so he just sat there taking it, stewing inside. "What are you, stupid?" "You just DECIDED I wanted my cart over there, huh?" "Didn't nobody tell you to move; don't be thinking you know something when you don't know nothin." It was sad; this picture reminds me of that moment. 

If Weight Loss Is Your New Year's Resolution

As I see the New Year's Resolution posts I just want to remind you - female AND male - that you are bigger than the number on the scale. I support health and wellness, but please make sure workout goals are just that. Anything overboard to look a certain way or gain acceptance is unhealthy. And if that's the case, strive for self-acceptance this year 💚💛💙

- written by Nakya Reeves, LMFT. I am a therapist and owner of a private practice where my main focus is working with families on communication issues, especially the parent-teen relationship. I also utilize PhotoTherapy techniques in my practice, which integrates bringing in photos that the client has taken or collected as a part of the therapy process. I can be contacted any time at csolutionstherapy@gmail.com

Be Ever-Changing in Your Personal Development

This is true of personal development, as well as what we should aim for in our relationships. Strive for positive change, always. 

Therapy doesn't have to be initiated by a negative event. Having counsel can be a valuable tool, no matter what the circumstances. 

csolutionstherapy@gmail.com 

PhotoTherapy Mindfulness Group Session for Substance Abusing Teens

Pictures from a photography-outing today. I conducted a group therapy exercise focused on mindfulness. The group walked to a local park and had the opportunity to capture photos on our walk, as well as at the park. It was a great experience seeing who really connected with the exercise, the differences in each teen's interpretation of the assignment, and the differences in perception. I'm very passionate about this topic, so I made sure to capture a few of my own.

How to Make it Easier to Communicate with Your Teen

In my work with teens, I've seen and heard many issues arise across the board. There are just some things that are common amongst this population, no matter what the original problem was that brought them to therapy. One such issue is the low quality of communication between teens and their parents. And oftentimes the main issue there is a teen feeling misunderstood, or as if their thoughts and opinions are belittled. 

CST Book Recommendation: The Anatomy of Peace

"The Anatomy of Peace" - by: The Arbinger Institute. 

I am forever grateful to have come across this book. It is an amazing resource for anyone on the topics of Communication and Conflict Resolution. Communication is one of my areas of specialty & I truly believe this is one of the best tools a client can utilize. I love the approach the authors have taken to address some pretty important communication skills. The book reads like a novel - has characters, a plot, interesting chapters, even a bit of humor - which makes it really easy to read. Clients actually want to finish this book; they are able to pick up tips and tools while simultaneously being entertained. 

 

The story begins with a very common & relatable communication issue - parents dealing with a challenging adolescent - and leads to many great places, including analyzing the mistakes we often make as co-workers, peers, spouses, friends, and even high powered executives & business partners.

#Selfies - Using the Self-Portrait in the Therapy Room

If you are not aware, "selfie" is a term used in popular media to describe a picture that is taken by a person of that person. Selfies are fun - we see pictures of people holding their phones in just the right position to capture a new outfit, an exciting moment, new hairstyle, or whatever. Selfies show the world what we are doing, and how good we look doing it! It's probably the most common way of sharing photos on Instagram, Facebook, SnapChat - you name it. You see the word everywhere - articles, blogs...I think there is even a show called Selfie (though I'm not sure if the same definition applies). So how can this phenomenon, commonly used for entertainment, be helpful in a therapeutic way?

Parenting Tip: The Airplane Metaphor

There's a metaphor I have used for years in practicing therapy with families. Specifically, parents who are stressed and need a little encouragement to take a little focus off the needs of their family and place some of that energy back into themselves. I call that metaphor, "The Airplane Metaphor."  It's been a while since my school and/or intern days, so I can't even remember where I got it from, or what theories came together to word it so well, but I do know this - it gets the point across every time.