Ahhh Family!

What a wonderful time of year.  A time to gather with family and friends to celebrate the Holidays.  I hope that is the case for you and yours this season.  It is a time to reflect on the year gone by and look forward with great optimism to 2018.  If you are traveling to visit grandma beyond our area, please drive safely on the ever-changing winter roads.

This time of year may also create some family tension that manifests itself when members see each other infrequently.  If your young ones have displayed certain behavioral issues and now, extended family members see those issues for the first time, please listen to their loving, caring advice.  It may be worth heeding.

When the holiday season is over I would like to invite you to visit my website sussmankids.com.  Take a look and see the services that I provide.  If you wish, we will schedule a New Year’s meeting with you and your children to evaluate the situation.  Once again, Happy Holidays to all of you in New York and New Jersey.

2017 44TH ANNUAL MERRY TUBA CHRISTMAS AT ROCKEFELLER CENTER

2017 44TH ANNUAL MERRY TUBA CHRISTMAS AT ROCKEFELLER CENTER

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"Hundreds of tenor and bass tuba players will congregate on The Rink at Rockefeller Center, 49th and 50th streets between Fifth and Sixth Avenues, on Sunday, December 17, 2017 at 3:30pm to play Christmas carols and other crowd favorites."

Fifteen year-olds Should be Banished to an Imaginary Island!

Say what?  We hope that this tongue-in-cheek headline got your attention.  On a recent TV show, one of the characters said that “15-year-olds should be put on an island for a year”.  It was a joke, of course, but it illustrates the frustration that parents have when raising young teenagers.  Remember, you were there once!

What if you have a 15-year-old (or so) child that simply refuses regular psychotherapy, but you know it would make a world of difference?  Perhaps they have been diagnosed with a mood disorder, ADD, or anxiety.  With the proliferation of social networking and other mass media it is harder to be a teenager these days.

Recognize, react, and proceed with bull-dogged determination.  This is YOUR kid’s future we are talking about!  Start with a call to noted child psychotherapist Dr. Steven Sussman. Dr. Sussman has developed a successful innovative approach for teens who do not want or benefit from traditional counseling.  He will arrange a meeting with you and your child at his Mountainside NJ office or his Staten Island NY office.  Make that call today at (908) 217-8106.

Things To Do in New York in December

Things To Do in New York in December

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"There are lots of great things to do in New York in December.  For starters, winter sports abound, whether you like to play, watch, or both. Shopping reaches a fever pitch this month, from crafts and artists’ markets to flea markets to sample sales and more."

Insurance Governs our Health Care Decisions.

It is in the news all too often these days…the type and amount of insurance we carry to meet certain medical needs dictates the level of care we may receive.  This ranges from dental care to health care for the ones we love.  You would never intentionally skimp on something for your kids…you would do without for yourself first.

A young family often has to make uncomfortable choices when it comes to their children’s physical and mental well-being.  Some children may need psychiatry, occupational therapy, speech therapy, etc.  How can a young family on a limited income afford all of this important care and more?

Dr. Steven Sussman a noted child psychologist serving the Staten Island and Mountainside New Jersey area believes that you have a right to use your insurance to cover the vast majority of his professional services.  Put your mind at ease and call Dr. Sussman for a consultation in his New York or New Jersey office.  Two locations…one number (908) 217-8106.

Don't Miss Macy's Thanksgiving Parade 2017

Macy's Thanksgiving Parade!!

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The Fine Line Between Brash and Bold.

Indeed, there is!  When someone is brash they tend to be rude, noisy, and overbearing (that IS the dictionary definition).  When they are bold, they are courageous and confident.  Which personality trait would you most enjoy seeing from your child?  That answer is easy…achieving it may not be.

Building confidence in your child without them becoming a bully is extraordinarily important in their formative years.  Here are a few tips –

1.  Step back when you see your child take harmless risks.

2.  Don’t overpraise.  It may do more harm than good.

3.  Encourage them to help around the house.

4.  Let them know that you love them no matter what.

5.  Give them goals that are attainable.

Doling out just the right amount of praise and discipline is like walking a tightrope.  There is help available in our area.  He is Dr. Steven Sussman.  Dr. Sussman is a renowned child psychologist in New York and New Jersey who helps build self-esteem.  Why not arrange a meeting at his Staten Island or Mountainside office by calling (908) 217-8106?

New York City Events November 2017

New York City Events November 2017

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"New York City Events November 2017 include the Rockettes at Radio City, Bruce Springsteen on Broadway, Disney on Ice, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, Thanksgiving Dinner, New York City Marathon, Veteran’s Day, tons of college Bagsketball and much more."

Groups vs. Individuals.

As it pertains to the care and treatment of your children is it more beneficial to be in a group setting or one-on-one?  Some prevailing thought is that when you are involved in an individual therapy session then your child gets personal attention.  But, is that necessarily what is best for them at this time?

Think about this…where do your children express the most familial feelings?  Chances are it is within a group.  Such things as school, sports, and other activities are done in group settings.  When you are in a group setting you empathize with the other people in the room and it takes the spotlight off of you and your kid.

This is, perhaps some “out of the box thinking”, however it makes all the sense in the world! Why not arrange a session with Dr. Steven Sussman?  He has spent decades learning the best techniques including children’s group therapy in New York and New Jersey.  See for yourself…call Dr. Sussman today at (908) 217-8106.

Halloween NYC 2017

Halloween in New York City, Halloween NYC 2017

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"No city does Halloween like New York City and if you're unsure what to do this October 31st, you've come to the right place."

 

Autistic Spectrum Disorder.

We have all heard of autism, but what about this specific form?  This includes social, behavioral, and challenges with communication itself.  Autistic Spectrum Disorder can range from mild to severe and all points in between.  When it is caught early, treatment can make a huge difference in living the rest of one’s life.

The term autistic spectrum is what you may think.  It covers the spectrum of autism, Asperger’s syndrome, and pervasive developmental disorder.  Have you heard of Rett syndrome?  It used to be grouped among the list of autism disorders, but now it is considered to be caused by genetic mutation.  So, it is no longer considered an ASD.

As we said at the top, early treatment is vital!  When you and your child meet with Dr. Steven Sussman you are beginning the journey with one of New York and New Jersey’s renowned Autistic Spectrum Disorder doctors.  Please make an appointment at the office closest to you on Staten Island or in Mountainside NJ by calling (908) 217-8106.

FREE Street Fair New York

FREE Street Fair New York

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Friday, October 20, 2017, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm

Free fun for the whole family, including arts, crafts, antiques, plants, entertainment, games, and more.

Can You Afford Family Therapy?

The real question here is…can you let a situation that involves your children NOT be addressed?  This is why we buy insurance in the first place…to protect our families!  Children’s therapy is as important as anything on which you will ever use insurance.  Many parents are already strapped trying to help their kids through adolescence.

Your duty as a parent is to find a doctor who is a participating provider in the vast majority of union and insurance plans.  A qualified individual with decades of experience in helping kids who also works with you to get the bill paid is a true gold mine!  Let us help you narrow down the choice with some background information.

On Staten Island and in Mountainside NJ noted child psychologist Dr. Steven Sussman may be the answer to a brighter future for your family.  Getting the help is tantamount…paying the bill for the best possible children’s therapy is just as important.  Please visit the website www.sussmankids.com.  Read the insurance page and then call Dr. Sussman at (908) 217-8106.

New York Feast - Luckyrice

NEW YORK FEAST

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"LUCKYRICE presents our annual New York Feast, as the Feast of all Feasts. Be the belle of the ball in a final farewell to Summer, we invite you to adorn yourself in its glow and celebrate 8 Lucky Years with us in an atmosphere tinged with romance and nostalgia, weaving together, a dream."

The Effect of Social Media on Your Daughter.

If you have a child who is anxious, depressed, or frequently exhausted it may be time to take a hard look at how much time they are spending on their phones.  There is a whole world out there that can be very dangerous to an impressionable “tween”.  Unmonitored social media usage is a bit like giving your child the keys to the car.

More than a quarter of U.S. teens have an anxiety disorder according to the National Institute of Mental Health.  Time spent on social media is considered a real risk factor.  Unfortunately, all of the data is not in because the medium is so new.  There have been enough studies thus far to tie in self-image and eating disorders to even “perceived” cyber bullying.

Many now theorize that social media will surpass alcohol and drugs in terms of addiction.  Being a responsible parent is recognizing the potential problem and seeking the right counsel.  In New York and New Jersey your answer may well be Dr. Steven Sussman.  The technology may be new, but Dr. Sussman’s methods are tried and true.  Please call for an appointment at his Staten Island or Mountainside N.J. office at (908) 217-8106.

Back to School! Mark your calendars with important dates!

Back to School for Mountainside School District

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It's time for Back to School!  Check the 2017-18 Calendar and mark the important dates! 

Albert Einstein, Steve Jobs, and Thomas Edison.

What do these three human “superstars” have in common?  Obviously, they were all enormously influential and successful in their lifetimes and well beyond.  Here is another tidbit that you may not know…they all may have suffered from AD/HD.  We have become more familiar with this malady in recent decades as something that affects our kids in various adverse ways.

Now that back-to-school time is upon us you want to take particular note if your child might be suffering from AD/HD.  When a young person blossoms in spite of this disorder it is indeed a triumph and it is not impossible to integrate and even excel with this condition.  Just ask the historians who know the careers of mister’s Einstein, Jobs, and Edison!

To explore and treat this particular personality trait you should seek the help of a licensed child therapist.  In the metropolitan area that man is Dr. Steven Sussman.  He is someone who has treated many children in New York and New Jersey for AD/HD and helped them to achieve.  Arrange a visit at his Staten Island or Mountainside, NJ office by calling (908) 217-8106.

Upcoming Events in New York, August 2017

Upcoming Events in New York, August 2017

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NYC events in August 2017

"Plan your month with the best NYC events in August 2017 featuring the Jazz Age Lawn Party, music festivals and more."

Mood Disorders in Children.

This is a broad topic with so many aspects that we cannot touch on it during this short missive.  You may be noticing radical mood swings in your kids because you are seeing more of them this summer.  This category includes all types of depression and even bipolar disorder.  It is sometimes called an “affective disorder”.

It must not be ignored as just a part of growing up!  First of all, there are chemicals in the brain that are responsible for positive moods.  Other chemicals in the brain, known as neurotransmitters, regulate the brain chemicals that affect mood.  The cause may be a chemical imbalance in your child’s brain.

Please seek help for the ones that you love.  Visit the website of Dr. Steven Sussman.  He is a New York and New Jersey children’s mood disorder professional.  His website is www.sussmankids.com.  It should not take very long to realize that Dr. Sussman could have the answers that you seek.  Arrange a visit at one of his offices by calling (908) 217-8106.

Meet the Man Who Could Improve Your Family’s Life.

If you know that it is time to hire a licensed child psychologist the most important step is choosing the right one.  Let’s do a virtual meet and greet with Dr. Steven Sussman.  Dr. Sussman received his Ph.D in clinical psychology from an American Psychological Approved program back in 1979. 

What helps in making your final decision is that last part.  He has been working with various child care agencies and in his private practice for nearly four decades!  The list of satisfied families who have benefited from his counsel is virtually endless.  He is not only a practitioner, but a teacher as well.

The next move is yours.  If you live in New York or New Jersey you would do well to visit the website www.sussmankids.com.  Read it carefully.  Look at the impressive list of testimonials.  I think you will discover that a visit to one of his offices will be a great decision for the future of your household.  Dr. Steven Sussman licensed child psychologist at (908) 217-8106.

Honeybees Are Buzzin’ at Thacher Nature Center

Honeybees Are Buzzin’ at Thacher Nature Center

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"Summertime brings flowers and a hive packed with activity! Come and learn all about honeybees as you view the colony in our indoor observation hive."

Autistic Spectrum Disorder.

Have you heard the radio public service announcements featuring famous people who have children suffering from autism?  Autism is not only on the rise, but it is a pervasive part of our society and families that we know…maybe your own.  Let’s define what Autistic Spectrum Disorder exactly is.

ASD creates a huge obstacle for children in their everyday existence to integrate with their peers.  What happens eventually is that they withdraw from socialization which leads to isolation and depression.  The bullying that they are subject to is beyond description.  It is an ongoing cycle of sadness and despair for the victims.

Ongoing therapy makes such a difference for those you love who are in the grips of ASD.  On Staten Island and in Mountainside, NJ one of the very best autism spectrum disorder Doctors is Dr. Steven Sussman.  Fight back!  Call Dr. Sussman to arrange an appointment at one of his offices as soon as possible at (908) 217-8106.

NYC Events in July 2017

July Events in New York!

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"Plan your month with our events calendar featuring Fourth of July events, summer concerts and more!"

Understanding ADHD as a Real Disability.

Once we understand that it is very much like, say diabetes, we won’t treat it the same way anymore.  Let’s acknowledge something.  We may at times get frustrated with ADHD victims.  I get it.  It can be frustrating.  Do you really think that someone wants to be saddled with that malady?  Of course not… not any more than touretts. 

In one’s formative years it becomes very difficult to fit in because peer groups are tough enough as it is without having to leap over another hurdle.  If a friend of your son or daughter displays symptoms of ADHD why not do some research?  If your child appears to show signs of this disorder then seek help.

One of the very best practitioners of ADHD in the New York Metropolitan area is Dr. Steven Sussman.  Please arrange an appointment for your son or daughter at his Staten Island or Mountainside, NJ office as soon as your schedules coincided by calling (908) 217-8106 and get the help that you seek.

Make Your Plans for Father's Day in NYC!

Father's Day in NYC 2017

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"It’s time to show just how much we truly appreciate Dad. New York boasts lots of great places to celebrate Father’s Day, celebrated on Sunday, June 18, 2017."

 

 

Take Two Film Academy

Take Two Film Academy

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"Classes:

We offer after school, weekend, holiday break, and summer camps!  Classes Range for 3 - 10th Graders (See below for details).  (Classes are refundable up until the first day of the class)"

Mom…Leave me alone…I’m Watching TV!

How many times will you hear that over the next few months.  It is just natural for a kid to want to “dial it down” after 9 months of “book-learning”.  It may be the routine in many households, but is it the best for your kid?  I could see a week or two of vacation this summer, but when a mind stays mostly inactive for 12 weeks that can be harmful.

Just look at it logically.  If you stopped working out your body would react negatively.  If you stopped eating right you could just look down and see the effect.  If you suddenly decided to sleep 12 hours a day you would feel even more tired.  Studies have shown that kids who put their minds on hold for the summer are slower to catch up in the fall.

For one thing, your child does not want to have to work harder to catch up in September.  Right now, lots of R and R seems nice, but it will bite you on the other end.  If you need help anytime with your school-aged youngsters remember Dr. Steven Sussman.  He has offices in Staten Island and Mountainside NJ.  Call Dr. Sussman at (908) 217-8106

Social Media has Ramped up the Pressure.

When Baby Boomers were growing up there was no instant contact with friends.  Expectations were limited to your family, friends, and your school.  Instant shaming on platforms such as Facebook and Twitter did not exist (thank heaven).  Life was simpler.  But we are not going back to those days so how do we deal with the daily flow of information?

In those times a child who exhibited disruptive behavior was just called “hyperactive” and it was assumed they would grow out of it.  The social issues of today are overwhelming by comparison.  These days when a child performs differently than their peers, special attention may be needed and should be sought.

In a bustling metropolis such as ours, that need may well be enhanced.  That is why it is so comforting to get to know Dr. Steve Sussman, a modern child psychologist.  The first thing to do is visit his website at www.sussmankids.com.  After you have learned more, then make an appointment in his Staten Island or Mountainside NJ office by calling (908) 217-8106.

2017 PGBA 13U Staten Island Spring Fling

2017 PGBA 13U Staten Island Spring Fling

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May 06, 2017 - May 07, 2017

Richmond County Youth Complex - 1400 Travis Ave Staten Island, NY 10314

Teen-Friendly Methods.

Could there possibly be such a thing?  Are we really talking about communicating with teenagers?  Believe it or not, it is possible!  Those, wild, untamed beautiful young minds may seem unmanageable for you and your significant other.  A professional who works with teenagers on a regular, daily basis may be the right answer.

Turning around a troubled teen is one of the most remarkable and satisfying things that you will ever experience.  Whom they associate with, how they interact at school, and by what they are motivated will shape the future of a strong adult in this next decade and beyond.  There is a great deal at stake here.

Dr. Steven Sussman has made it his life’s work and considers it one of the most satisfying things he has ever experienced.  Turning a misguided teen into a productive young adult gives life meaning.  Please call Dr. Sussman for an appointment with your teenager at his Mountainside, NJ or Staten Island office at (908) 217-8106.  A YOUNG mind is a terrible thing to waste!

3rd Annual Race 4 the Children (2017)

3rd Annual Race 4 the Children (2017)

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"The Friends of the Child Advocacy Center of Union County, New Jersey, is proud to host the 3rd Annual Race 4 the Children on Sunday, April 23, 2017 in Warinanco Park in Roselle, NJ (click here for race course map). All proceeds will benefit the Child Advocacy Center of Union County, New Jersey."

I’m So Excited!

Let me ask you something.  In your lifetime did you accomplish more positive things when you were excited and motivated or disinterested?  Of course, you know the answer to that…we all accomplish more when we are invested emotionally.  Sometimes, you just can’t conjure up that verve on your own.

When you have a “mentor” that motivates you to accomplish life’s achievements it makes it sooo much easier.  What “goals” do your children have?  Do they learn and develop at a different pace than their peers?  That’s fine…viva la difference!  Just like a good coach brings out the best in an athlete the same may be said about child psychology.

In the New York and New Jersey we are blessed to have one of the nation’s best child psychologists. He is Dr. Steven Sussman.  Dr. Sussman is your kid’s ally.  He will develop strategies to get your child motivated.  Why not give him a call and see for yourself in his NYC or Mountainside NJ office by calling (908) 217-8106.

Plan your Easter Egg Hunt!

Easter Egg Hunt Tickets

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"Come join the hunt! The Bunny will scatter Easter eggs around the mall, and we need your help to find them! Children will receive a festive basket to collect their eggs and then participate in a fun-filled craft to celebrate the holiday. The Easter Bunny will be ready to take photos afterwards so come with a smile."

 

 

Resist the Temptation.

You are at wit’s end.  You have been exposed to your child’s bad behavior once too often.  You lectured, you scolded, you cajoled, you even turned a deaf ear.  Now, you may be considering medication.  Stop!  Medication is NOT resolution.  More often than not, it is “mask” that impedes your ability to truly help your kid.

For your family, counseling may be the answer.  It needs to be affordable, we understand that.  The important thing to always remember is that the end game should be to lessen or even eliminate the use of medication in children.  America has become too “comfortable” hiding its maladies in a fog.

Please check out this website www.sussmankids.com.  Dr. Steven Sussman with offices located in New York and New Jersey would like to visit with your family.  Dr. Sussman will teach parents to cultivate positive behavior.  Before you know it, medication might be a distant memory.  Contact Tri-State area child psychologist Dr. Steven Sussman at (908) 217-8106.

The History of ADHD

When we Baby Boomers were growing up this acronym was virtually unknown.  ADHD was actually mentioned for the first time more than a century ago by a British doctor Sir George Sill.  He described it as an “abnormal defect of moral control in children”.  Today, we understand that our kids are not defective just “wired a little differently”.

Seventy years or so ago it became all about drugs when Benzedrine was introduced as a medicine to control ADHD.  Doctors discovered a notable improvement in children’s overall behavior and in the classroom.  It was really not until 1968 when the APA finally identified “hyperkinetic impulse disorder”

Today’s parents have a wealth of knowledge when it comes to ADHD.  One thing is certain.  If you live in the New York Metropolitan Area there is an accomplished and highly respected child psychologist named Steven Sussman.  We invite you to give him a call and have you and your child (or children) visit him in his Mountainside NJ office at (908) 217-8106.