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Wednesday, December 14, 2016

Gratitude Not Attitude.

These are words to live by, I am sure you would agree.  We probably wish our kids were on board with us about the above phrase.  It just seems natural to be rebellious.  Only with the passage of time do our children realize how grateful they are to have had you for a parent.  Well, maybe not that far, but certainly much more than they were when they were kids.

How can we get them from recalcitrant to resilient in a manner that works for all parties?  It has been a challenge for parents since the dawn of time.  How often have we heard, “my generation had more respect for their elders than this one”?  Upon reflection, we know that is not necessarily true, but proper relationships will help mold each family.

Professional advice and councel is not admitting defeat, it is asking for assistance in a very important and weighty family matter.  Start the New Year off right by contacting Metropolitan area child behaviorist Doctor Steven Sussman.  Dr. Sussman will talk to your kid about gratitude vs. attitude at his Mountainside, NJ office.  Call him for an appointment at (908) 217-8106.

Tuesday, December 6, 2016

Oppositional Defiance Disorder.

You have probably all heard of ADD, but what about ODD?  It is not as well known as a term of child behavior.  ODD stands for Oppositional Defiance Disorder.  Catching ODD at the right time is important because just about every kid goes through a phase of defiance.  When your child displays an ongoing pattern of defiance and argumentative behavior it may be time to address the situation.

Many children, even through their teenage years, may display other behaviors associated with ODD such as attention deficit disorder, mood disorders, anxiety, and even learning disabilities.  As time goes by they may even develop something called conduct disorder in which they display a pattern of disruptive and even violent personalities. 

It is important to notice and correct ODD at the right time.  If you suspect this may be a problem with your child, contact Metropolitan area oppositional defiance disorder Doctor Steven Sussman.  Dr. Sussman will assess your child’s condition and make recommendations from his Mountainside, NJ office.  Call him for an appointment at (908) 217-8106.

Thursday, November 17, 2016

Teen and Pre-Teen Cyberbullying.

Like it or not it’s a brand new age.  Different things that we used to tolerate on the playground have become a national epidemic in the 2nd decade of the 21st century.  Even 10 years ago almost no one was familiar with the term “digital harassment”.  It is described as repeated behavior using today’s technology to bother, scare, or even threaten someone.

Cyberstalking is another term of which you may have heard.  How common is this?  Should we pay closer attention to it, or just brush off bullying like we used to do decades ago?  Believe it or not, nearly HALF of the teens surveyed reported to have been harassed by cyber bullying.  Nearly 3 out of 4 teens have seen it in action.  But, only about 1 in 10 ever bother to even report it!

Cyberbullying and cyberstalking are today’s reality and are very serious.  It has a strong chance of altering your child’s personality.  If your kid has been guilty of these activities or been a victim of them it may be time to take action.  Contact New York City area child psychotherapist Steven Sussman.  Dr. Sussman will assess your situation and make recommendations from one of his NYC area offices.  Call him for an appointment at (908) 217 8106.

Tuesday, November 1, 2016

Recognizing the Manic Phase of Bipolar.

Your child seems like he or she is on top of the world.  Nothing but happy happy joy joy all the time.  It seems great on the surface.  Then it happens, your youngster suddenly has an extreme bout of rage or depression.  In people with bipolar disorder these types of sudden, dramatic mood swings are all too common and difficult if not impossible for mom and dad to predict.

Typical of these symptoms is hyperactivity.  “Bouncing off the walls” is how some would refer to it.  This may promote risky behavior in your child that could cause harm to them or others.  You probably also will notice uncontrollable and rapid speech patterns.  They jump from topic to topic almost breathlessly becoming increasingly incoherent.

Dealing with the manic phase of bipolar disorder is at best challenging.  Doctor Steven Sussman may have the answers that you seek.  He will assess your children’s specific manic behavior and recommend the proper treatment unique to each individual.  Dr. Sussman maintains offices in Union County, New Jersey and Staten Island, New York.  Make an appointment at one of his offices today by calling (908) 217 8106.

Tuesday, October 25, 2016

Looking for some fun Halloween events 2016?

(Follow the link above for more information) 

"Here are the spookiest and coolest Halloween events NYC has ever seen from parties to ghost tours and haunted houses" - Time Out, NY




Tuesday, October 18, 2016

ADHD and Your Child.

When Johnny was young a lot of people told his mom that he was hyperactive.  As time and science evolved we learned to recognize ADHD.  This is how we refer to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.  Some kids may be inattentive only.  That was formally known simply as attention deficit disorder.  Some children are hyperactive and impulsive.

Any parent who sees these traits in their youngster has questions.  Among them are -

1.  Will my child outgrow ADHD?
2.  Does a child who exhibits these traits ALWAYS have ADHD?
3.  What causes it?
4.  And…is there a cure?

There are numerous factors that cause ADHD.  Some of them even trace back to genetics.  Doctor Steven Sussman may be an answer.  He will assess your children’s possible attention deficit hyperactivity disorder issues.  Dr. Sussman maintains offices in Union County, New Jersey and Staten Island, New York.  Make an appointment at one of his offices today to talk about your child’s specific issues by calling (908) 217-8106.

Tuesday, October 4, 2016

Bipolar Disorder in Children.

It is not as rare as you may think.  Over 5 million people in the United States suffer from bipolar disorder.  About 20% of those people have also been found to have borderline personality disorder.  When someone is diagnosed as bipolar it means they have a mental illness that can manifest itself with dramatic high and low mood swings.

Look for extreme elation in your child which may escalate out of control.  If your child may be bipolar 1 they could have a manic episode which might last a week or more and may even require hospitalization.  Bipolar II is much more common.  The symptoms are less severe and harder to diagnose.  Your youngster may even try to explain their feelings, but have great difficulty in doing so.

It may be time to call a professional in treating children who have been diagnosed as bipolar.  Doctor Steven Sussman may help you with your children’s possible bipolar disorder issues.  Dr. Sussman maintains offices in Union County, New Jersey and Staten Island, New York.  Make an appointment at one of his locations today to talk to you and your child by calling (908) 217 8106.

Thursday, September 15, 2016

Getting Re-Acclimated to School Work.

Now that you have had a little time to see how your child or children are settling into the back-to-school regimen it may be time to create your own personal report card.  Back-to-school means a number of different things.  It is not just about adjusting to the challenge of new classes, but also to sticking with the daily routine that includes diet, exercise, and sleep schedules.

Your children are members of social groups.  At home they may exhibit certain behaviors.  At school there may be actions that cause concern.  Among friends, traits may come to the forefront because new relationships have been forged.  Has there been a change in your child’s personality in any of these settings since the previous school year?

Just as the school gives grades you may consider doing the same as you observe your kid.  For instance, you may assign a “four” or “A” if you are pleased by what you are witnessing.  If the score is “two”, for example that may be reason for alarm.  A call to Doctor Steven Sussman may help you with your children’s behavioral issues.  Dr. Sussman maintains offices in Union County New Jersey and Staten Island New York.  Make an appointment at one of his locations today by calling (908) 217 8106.

Thursday, September 1, 2016

Healthy Childhood…Healthy Life.

We all want to ensure that our kids basic needs are met.  Do they eat well, exercise, and get enough sleep?  The habits that our offspring develop will carry on to their adult years.  Someday very soon those early developing life habits will lay them in good stead when they have to balance a work schedule and a family of their own.

Your part as mom and dad is to start at the grocery store.  If you feed them the right foods, they will have a head start.  DO NOT raise a couch potato.  Get them out and have a regular exercise regimen.  An active child should sweat every day.  Keep their bedrooms as dark as their young minds will allow at night to help them get a good night’s sleep.

In many cases you cannot do it all to ensure your child’s health and well-being.  That is why you should seek the services of Doctor Steven Sussman, a certified child psychologist in the tri-state area.  Doctor Sussman will help improve the life style of your youngster in New York City and Northern New Jersey.  Dr. Sussman maintains offices in Union County New Jersey and Staten Island ,New York.  Make an appointment at one of his locations today by calling (908) 217 8106.

Wednesday, August 24, 2016

FREE SUMMER MOVIES in the park!

(Follow the link above for more information)

Summer is wrapping up - follow the link above - and find your ticket to FREE MOVIES under the stars!  Bring a blanket and enjoy the night air.






Monday, August 15, 2016

Improving Your Child’s Social Skills.

Our kids come in all shapes and sizes and their social skills are just as diverse.  Because of these variables each child needs his or her own set of social development.  The important first step is to know the benchmarks.  What are the normal skills that should be expected from someone who is that particular age and what is needed from that point?

Here are a couple of those benchmarks.  Four and five year olds are able to show more cooperation with other children.  Six and seven year olds will usually try to please people they care about using the terms please and thank you.  At seven and beyond they are learning empathy and feeling the highs and lows of the people they love.

It is certainly NOT an exact science.  That is why it may be time to seek the services of Doctor Steven Sussman.  Doctor Sussman will help improve the social skills of your youngster in New York City and Northern New Jersey.  Dr. Sussman has offices in Union County, New Jersey and Staten Island, New York.  Make an appointment at one of his locations today by calling (908) 217 8106.

Monday, August 1, 2016

Effects of Divorce on Children.

Almost every parent says the same thing…the most difficult part of divorce is its effect on the children.  They constantly second-guess their decision “for the good of the kids” and as a result often make matters worse.  Often it is not the divorce itself, but rather the uncertainty of life AFTER divorce that effects your kids more.

Having to adjust to a new home or a new school if that is the case may take a year or more.  And we all know that children tend to blame themselves for the divorce because at one time or another one or both parents have “yelled” at them.  They also are slowed in their ability to move on by thinking that the adults will solve everything and get back together.

Family therapy at this juncture may shape the rest of your children’s lives.  Make an important phone call to Doctor Steven Sussman.  Doctor Sussman is a licensed child and family divorce psychotherapist serving New York City and Northern New Jersey.  Dr. Sussman has offices in Union County New Jersey and Staten Island New York.  Make an appointment today by calling (908) 217 8106.

Monday, July 18, 2016

Psychotherapy Teamwork.

When parents and children need to communicate it is important for a licensed psychotherapist to be present in the room.  When the parent is involved in a therapeutic session they are able to rate its effectiveness.  In doing so, this begins the process to overcome problematic behavior. What better time to do this than now, before it becomes the dysfunctional activity of an adult.

The first goal is to ensure that your child is treating you with respect and proper attitude.  The second is school-related - academics, behavior, daily routine, etc.  Thirdly there is social responsibility.  We are all members of a social group.  How is your child contributing to family?  In a session you are asked to rate your child from one to five to get a handle on where you stand.

This type of therapy shapes the rest of your child’s life.  To begin this important journey, call Doctor Steven Sussman.  Doctor Sussman is a licensed child psychotherapist serving New York City and Northern New Jersey.  Dr. Sussman has offices in Union County New Jersey and Staten Island New York.  Make an appointment for you and your child today by calling (908) 217 8106.

Friday, July 1, 2016

Parental Involvement in Child Therapy.

What matters more in life than results?  Nothing!  The final result if it is the desired one is what we all strive for in all aspects of life.  Cognitive Therapy for children is no different.  When you teach new ideas and behavioral patterns and then you monitor the results, you have a system that can be better measured rather than just talking to the children individually.

With a Cognitive-behavioral approach the parent is involved in each session.  During and after the session the parent should rate how well their child is accomplishing his or her goals.  What a relief from the back and forth shouting sessions you used to have at home.  When the therapist, the child, and the parent are involved in a session everyone is able to get on (or near) the same page.

This is a refreshing alternative and deserves a closer look.  To begin seeking insight into your child’s behavior call Doctor Steven Sussman.  Doctor Sussman is a licensed child therapist serving NYC and Northern New Jersey.  Dr. Sussman has offices in Union County New Jersey and Staten Island NY.  Make an appointment for you and your child today by calling (908) 217 8106.

Monday, June 27, 2016

Where to watch the 4th of July Fireworks in New York City

Where to watch the 4th of July fireworks in New York City

It’s time for 4th of July Fireworks, NYC's epic celebration of all things America and one of the most exciting things to do in summer.  Follow the link above for a list of places to view the fireworks! 


Wednesday, June 15, 2016

Get Your Kids to Open Up.

It is important to get your children to tell you what is bothering them.  I know someone that used to run away or hide under the bed when Independence Day came.  Really!  His parents could not understand it at first, then they found out that he was terrified of the noise and commotion.  Simple things that we take for granted may seem like life or death for little kids.

As you discover more about your little one it is important how you react to new revelations.  Don’t make such a big deal of everything.  For example, if they get into dirt or mud don’t overreact during the cleaning process, especially if it is a somewhat rare occurrence.  We all would like some magic crystal ball to know when to intervene without being overprotective. 

When is the right time to consult a professional therapist?  There may be greater issues at play such as mild autism, anxiety disorder, or ADHD.  To get the answers you seek call Doctor Steven Sussman.  Doctor Sussman is a licensed child psychologist serving NYC and Northern New Jersey.  Dr. Sussman has offices in Union County New Jersey and Staten Island NY.  Call him today and begin discussing your preschooler’s issues at (908) 217 8106.

Thursday, June 2, 2016

Tweens and Cell Phones.

What is the correct age to give your child a cell phone?  It is all a matter of trust and maturity and there is no right answer.  In a best case scenario have them pay the monthly bill.  That will give them a greater sense of responsibility.  Preferably your “tween” will be on a family plan keeping the bill reasonable.  Expect them to understand the contract of the provider if they abuse or lose their phone.

Should you check their phone for the type of texts they are sending and receiving?  Again, this is a case by case consideration.  One rule that should always apply…the parent gets the passwords to any and all social media accounts.  Remind them to read what they write twice before they hit send.  That’s good advice for all ages.

For some tweens and teens cell phone use may border on addiction.  Do not ignore that possibility.  If you want the advice of a professional, contact Doctor Steven Sussman.  Doctor Sussman is a licensed psychologist for kids misusing their electronic devices.  Reach out to Dr. Sussman who has offices in Union County New Jersey and Staten Island NY.  Call him today and begin addressing the situation at (908) 217 8106.

Tuesday, May 24, 2016

Memorial Day Activities for Kids in NYC


There's no shortage of awesome Memorial Day activities for kids happening May 28–30, so why not try and plan something cool every day of your long weekend?  <follow the link above>

 

Ideas for Memorial Weekend in NYC 2016


Get the most out of Memorial Day weekend with our handy guide to holiday events, memorials and things to do in NYC <Follow the link above>
 
 


Tuesday, May 17, 2016

Increase in Teen Tobacco Use.

In an average high school class, of say 30 students, it is fair to say that statistically 7 or 8 of them are using tobacco.  This is according to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control).  Even in middle schools more than 10% of the kids are either smoking, vaping, or dipping.  Putting that in different terms around 5 million American teenagers are regular users of tobacco.

The report goes on to say that most tobacco use and addiction begin during youth and young adulthood.  At current rates more than 5 and a half million kids under the age of 17 are projected to die prematurely from some smoking-related disease.  As more and more adults quit this nasty habit more of our promising youth are discovering it.

Don’t let your children make decisions about tobacco or e-cigarettes without being armed with knowledge.  Doctor Steven Sussman is a licensed psychologist for kids using tobacco and other substances.  Reach out to Dr. Sussman who has offices in Union County, New Jersey and Staten Island, NY.  Call him today and begin addressing the situation at (908) 217 8106.

Tuesday, May 3, 2016

Emotional Disturbance in our Children.

Everyone is used to their kids having an over-abundance of energy.  Of course, that’s what makes them special…OUR kids and their boundless energy.  If you notice the following traits over an extended period of time take notice.

1.  An inability to learn
2.  Not being able to build any long-term relationships
3.  Inappropriate behavior under normal every day circumstances
4.  Unusual mood swings
5.  Anger and even paranoia about everyday problems at school

Mental disorders ARE medical conditions that interfere with a person’s mood, thinking, feeling, and even the way they function in society.  When there is a physical illness such as diabetes it is easily diagnosed and then treated.  When the malady is mental our children may have a diminished capacity to cope with the simple issues of daily life.

You are doing no favors if you just wait for your kids to “outgrow” their behavior.  Doctor Steven Sussman is a licensed child psychologist of emotional disturbances in children.  Reach out to Dr. Sussman who has offices in Union County New Jersey and Staten Island NY.  Discuss your particular situation by calling him today at (908) 217 8106.

Wednesday, April 27, 2016

Don't Forget Mother's Day!

Things to do on Mother's Day
<click link above for more information>

Take mom, grandma and the whole family out with these Mother's Day events. Go on the town to eat, drink and lounge!  <click the link above for events information>

Monday, April 18, 2016

Don’t Let Children be the Innocent Victims of Our Stress.

As adults we all get stressed out from time to time.  If you are a parent you may try to hide your stress from your children and not burden them unduly.  You would never intentionally hurt your child, but carrying your worries home and heaping them on the household may be doing more damage than you could possibly know.

What do you do for a living?  When you come home from work your MOST important job begins…the job of mom or dad (or both).  You need to reach down for some positive energy.  Get involved with your child and enquire about their day.  This isn’t about “buying” your way into their lives.  It is about the meaningful minutes that you devote to them every day.

Stress is a powerful force and parenting is the most important job on earth.  Doctor Steven Sussman is a licensed child psychologist who will meet with you and your children to help carve out a better bond between you.  Dr. Sussman has offices in Union County New Jersey and Staten Island NY.  Give him a call today at (908) 217 8106.

Tuesday, April 5, 2016

How to Deal with Temper Tantrums.

When your kid has a meltdown…and let’s face it they all do from time to time, you may be inclined to overreact.  Kids between 1 and 4 have not had time to develop good coping skills.  Every tantrum that they throw comes from the same place.  They don’t get what they want exactly when they want it.  It is the only way they know how to communicate.

Here are a few tips to deal with the next tantrum.

1.  Give them some space.  They need time to let out their anger.
2.  Create a diversion.  Just get their mind off of the here and now.
3.  Try to understand what is actually bothering them even if you think you already know.
4.  Speak calmly.  This is a hard one to implement, but try to be the adult here.
5.  Give them a hug.  There is nothing better than a cuddly, honest hug at a time like this.

If your child is behaving in this manner WAY to often it is time to consult the advice of a professional. Doctor Steven Sussman is a licensed child psychologist who will talk to you as a dispassionate third party about your child’s temper tantrums.  Dr. Sussman has offices in Union County New Jersey and Staten Island NY.  Get a handle on the situation call him today at (908) 217 8106.

Monday, March 21, 2016

Young and Free NYC


"It's no secret that New York City is a great place for families. But all that exploring can cost you a pretty penny—unless you know where to look. You won't have to wander far to find free-admission days at museums, gratis concerts and films, complimentary story sessions and exciting events that let you leave your wallet tucked happily away. Forget staying at home to save money. We've rounded up the best free ways for young locals and visitors to get out on the town." - Click the link above. 


Tuesday, March 15, 2016

Treating Children with Bipolar Disorder.

Diagnosing bipolar disorder in a young child may be very challenging.  The symptoms are almost identical to ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder).  Even healthy children may exhibit certain symptoms from time to time simply because of youthful exuberance.  Be very careful with certain medications which may even trigger mania in children.

Generally bipolar disorder manifests itself in teenagers and young adults.  This is a difficult diagnosis.  Some experts on the subject believe that it is over-diagnosed while many do not.  No one is absolutely certain how common it is.  One thing is for sure…DO NOT JUMP TO CONCLUSIONS!  Severe outbursts of temper do not necessarily indicate bipolar disorder.

Seek out the council of children’s bipolar disorder, Doctor Steven Sussman.  If your child behaves in such a manner as to indicate he or she may have this malady or one related to it do not trust the advice of a friend or the internet for answers.  Dr. Sussman has offices in Mountainside New Jersey and Staten Island NY.  With your child’s future at stake call him today at (908) 217 8106.

Tuesday, March 1, 2016

Are you in a Dysfunctional Relationship with your Child?

From the outside looking in the signs seem obvious.  Your teenage daughter is engaging in aberrant behavior.  Maybe this is combined by substance abuse.  Above all there is instability.  You may have a teenager in your life who threatens to hurt herself or run away from home.  What is the real core of the problem?

There is a reason that your daughter is acting out in this manner.  She may be re-enacting a relationship flaw that she saw her parents engage in.  Perhaps an older sibling tormented her.  It is possible that she  has experienced “emotional blackmail” such as withholding love if the child does not behave the way you wished.  Who is ruling the house? 

Dr. Steven Sussman treats many types of the behavioral problems of families whose children exhibit  dysfunctional behavior.  For your convenience, he has offices in Mountainside New Jersey and Staten Island NY.  Dr. Sussman is a New York and New Jersey behavior therapist who will help your family bond again.  Make an appointment now by giving him a call at (908) 217 8106. 

Thursday, February 25, 2016

Get set for St. Patrick's Day in New York!

 
Get your green gear on and head to the best parades, parties and performances with these St. Patrick’s Day events - click the link above! 
 
 

Tuesday, February 16, 2016

What is Asperger’s Syndrome?

Asperger’s Syndrome is rather new to the medical community.  It was discovered by German Doctor Hans Asperger back in 1944.  He was an Austrian physician whose work was largely unnoticed during his lifetime.  It wasn’t until the 1980’s that the medical community recognized his work with childhood mental disorders and named the disease after him.

Asperger’s Syndrome is a type of pervasive developmental disorder (PDD).  An individual who is afflicted with this condition has had a delayed development in most basic skills such as interacting with other human beings.  Although Asperger’s symptoms are similar to autism there are some basic differences.  Asperger’s patients often have normal intelligence levels, but have difficulty communicating which seems to get worse as one gets older.

This is a disorder that effects everyone in your family and demands your attention.  Dr. Steven Sussman treats many types of the behavioral problems of youth from his offices located in Mountainside New Jersey and Staten Island NY.  Through the use of child-friendly behavioral therapy, Dr. Sussman will help your family bond again.  Make an appointment now by giving him a call at (908) 217 8106.