Your Complicated Teen.

Maybe we should say just teenager…which one is NOT complicated.  Come on, think back to your own teenage years!  The parents of today’s Baby Boomers rarely sought out therapy for their complicated teen.  It was a completely different time.  If they did, the sessions were generally done privately and not in groups.

Why do today’s teens with social problems often fall behind from individual therapy?  The Journal of Clinical Psychology did an interesting study on this problem.  Over a 20-year period they reported that group therapy was more effective with children and teenagers than other forms.  It reports that the average child or adolescent treated by group treatment was better off than 73 percent of those who were not.

Dr. Steven Sussman believes in group therapy for teenagers.  It is not “one size fits all,” but over the decades he has discovered that kids who suffer from things like bullying, shyness, anger management, and many other issues are better off in a group setting.  Contact New York/New Jersey child psychologist Dr. Steven Sussman to discuss a session at (908) 217-8106.

A Teacher AND a Doer.

The expression is usually “those who can’t do teach”.  It does not always work that way.  In some exceptional cases someone who has done much teaches others to do better.  This is the case with New York area child psychologist Dr. Steven Sussman.  The doctor has not only taught other professionals to do their jobs better, but continues to work successfully with kids.

It has been and will forever be the case that kids with behavior problems are often overwhelmed by society’s expectations of them.  It has never been truer as they continue to be bombarded by social media and other ways of instantly discovering how other people interpret what exactly constitutes “the norm”.

Dr. Sussman will help your child.  It is just that simple!  He teaches and he does and he has dedicated his adult life to helping others successfully reach adulthood.  You really have nothing to lose.  Please call him for an appointment at his Staten Island or Mountainside NJ office.  That important phone number is (908) 217-8106.

The Z’s.

Who is this new generation, anyway?  They have been dubbed Generation Z.  These are the kids born late in the 20th century until about the middle of this current decade.  Do you know them?  Do they know themselves?  How do they differ from the much-maligned Millennials that have been an easy target for critics?

Here are some key differences painted, of course, with broad strokes -

1. They are less focused.  They have been raised in a world of constant updates.

2. Gen Z’s are really good multi-taskers.

3. They care about frugality because they were brought up during a recession.

4. Many of them opt for the workforce over higher education.

5. They tend to be fierce individualists.

One thing that has not changed (and probably never will) is that they need to learn what it takes to cope with the challenges of the real world.  Dr. Steven Sussman, noted New York and New Jersey child psychologist has brought out the best in young people since Baby Boomers were riding tricycles!  Make an appointment at his Staten Island or Mountainside NJ office to meet your Generation Z(s) by calling (908) 217-8106.

Let’s Hear from the Adults.

The kids who work with Dr. Steven Sussman in group therapy may not realize the life-changing skills they have been given.  Some are stubborn, some are even a little combative at first, but eventually they will come away from these sessions as better people thanks to the decades of children’s therapy provided by Dr. Sussman.

Here is what adults are saying about his work.  “His sense of humor really gets kids to open up”.  “My kid is looking forward to the session tonight.  He really is thankful for your help”.  “Now that I am in college I thank you for pushing me toward better grades while I was in high school.  I am going for my undergraduate degree in mathematics”.

So many young adults have become better people because of the tireless work of Dr. Steven Sussman.  Is he an answer to your child’s behavioral issues?  You won’t know unless and until you reach out to him.  If you live near Mountainside, NJ or Staten Island arrange an office visit by calling one simple phone number (908) 217-8106

Let’s Meet Dr. Sussman.

Call him Steve if you wish, but Dr. Steven Sussman has been a Doctor of Psychology for nearly 40 years.  To say that he has met just about any and all challenges over these last four decades would be an enormous understatement.  With that experience comes a type of compassion that makes him feel like your children are an extension of his family.

You may not know it, but the American Psychological Association (APA) is the gold standard of doctoral and internship programs. Both are where Dr. Sussman earned his Ph.D in clinical psychology.  He has not only succeeded in private practice, but has also been a consultant for many and varied child care agencies.

What does Dr. Steven Sussman want you to know BEFORE you pick up the phone to arrange a visit at his Mountainside NJ or Staten Island office?  That answer is found by visiting www.sussmankids.com on the web.  Read all about it…he may be just the godsend that you have been looking for.  Please call (908) 217-8106.

Why is Group Therapy Preferable?

We do things in groups.  Our kids attend school with others.  They participate in activities such as sports with like-minded individuals.  As adults, we generally go to work in an office with other people.  Life happens, generally in groups.  Why shouldn’t child therapy do the same thing?  The answer seems apparent.

Here are a few reasons why your child should be in a group rather than one-on-one –

1.  It focuses on the here and now and not individual history which could get in the way.

2.  Sharing equals meaningful exchanges with peers…the real world.

3.  It is more relaxing for everyone taking the pressure off of the individual.

I am Dr. Steven Sussman.  I believe in group therapy for kids and I believe that you will see my vision.  We have group therapy sessions in Mountainside NJ and Staten Island NY.  I invite you to visit my website at www.sussmankids.com then give me a call to arrange a consultation at one of my offices.  One phone number will reach me (908) 217-8106.

Let’s Meet Dr. Sussman.

Call him Steve if you wish, but Dr. Steven Sussman has been a Doctor of Psychology for nearly 40 years.  To say that he has met just about any and all challenges over these last four decades would be an enormous understatement.  With that experience comes a type of compassion that makes him feel like your children are an extension of his family.

You may not know it, but the American Psychological Association (APA) is the gold standard of the profession.  That is where Dr. Sussman received his Ph.D in clinical psychology.  He has not only succeeded in private practice, but has also been a consultant for many and varied child care agencies.

What does Dr. Steven Sussman want you to know BEFORE you pick up the phone to arrange a visit at his Mountainside NJ or Staten Island office?  That answer is found by visiting www.sussmankids.com on the web.  Read all about it…he may be just the godsend that you have been looking for.  Please call (908) 217-8106.

So…How were the Holiday Gatherings?

Everyone tells their own story.  Sometimes it is a joyous reunion of friends and relatives that are not seen at any other time.  In other cases, you remember why you have NOT seen them for a year!  Whichever category you may fit into, now that the holiday season is over, how did everyone get along?

The point is this…relatives who see your kids once in a “Blue Moon” may rightly or wrongly point out behavioral traits that you have been conveniently ignoring.  One of the hardest things to do is admit that your child (children) may need counseling.  I understand this can cast a shadow on your feelings as a proper parent.

Not only is there nothing wrong with adolescent psychotherapy, there may be something in it for your family that will change everyone’s attitude toward each other moving forward into 2018.  Now is the time to address the “elephant in the room” and give me a call.  My name is Dr. Steven Sussman.  I am a noted child psychotherapist in Mountainside NJ and Staten Island NY.  Call for an appointment early in this New Year at (908) 217-8106.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

Rising rates of Middle-School Suicides.

Just recently a new statistic reared its ugly head.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released a study that for the first time in this country middle-school students are just as likely to die from suicide as from traffic accidents.  If this is not an eye-opener for everyone with a child in this age group I don’t know what is.

In this century, the rate of suicide compared to car crashes has quadrupled!  The CDC’s most recent statistics show that in 2014 there were 425 kids in this age cell that took their own lives.  While safety in travel has accounted for the decrease in car fatalities that does not ameliorate the fact that over 400 of our nation’s children have found it impossible to go on…not to mention those who tried and, thank heaven failed.

Constant exposure to social media is cited as a primary reason.  Now, when something hurtful is said or written “everyone” knows.  That peer pressure is just too overwhelming for some.  If you live in the tri-state area arrange a visit with Dr. Steven Sussman.  Schedule a meeting with one of the area’s premier child psychologists.  Dr. Sussman maintains offices in Union County, New Jersey and Staten Island, New York.  Call him at (908) 217-8106.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.