The Coping Podcast

Dr. Leigh Weisz is the Founder of Coping Partners, a mental health clinic. As a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice, she was on staff and affiliated with The Family Institute at Northwestern University for several years. She has experience working with children, adolescents, families, and individual adults in areas such as child and adolescent family therapy, grief and loss, and relationship issues. Dr. Weisz earned her graduate degree in clinical psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology with a specialty in children and families. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and Spanish from the University of Michigan, having graduated with honors. Dr. Weisz has practiced in community mental health, hospitals, and outpatient family medicine practice settings. In this episode… Parenting during childhood development brings unique challenges, from navigating anxiety and obsessive-compulsive behaviors to fostering emotional resilience and balancing technology usage. While overwhelming at times, these hurdles can present growth opportunities when families embrace understanding, validation, and proactive support. What insights can you gain from experts helping children cope with these challenges? Dr. Aryn Froum sheds light on OCD in children, explaining how compulsions differ from superstitions and why these behaviors aren’t driven by choice. Dr. Eli Lebowitz explores the distinct nature of child anxiety, emphasizing that it’s rooted in developmental and biological differences. Demi Agaiby uses a “lighthouse” metaphor to help athletes — and anyone facing burnout — reconnect with their core motivation and purpose. Dr. Leigh Weisz highlights the importance of creating safe spaces for kids to process emotions, encouraging parents to prioritize validation over fixing. Meanwhile, Ben Kessler examines technology’s influence on kids’ functioning, illustrating how excessive use can disrupt sleep, hygiene, and emotional well-being. In this episode of The Coping Podcast, Dr. Leigh Weisz brings together experts like Dr. Aryn Froum, Dr. Eli Lebowitz, Demi Agaiby, and Ben Kessler to provide actionable strategies for parents, caregivers, and educators. Their insights offer a roadmap for helping kids navigate anxiety, OCD, and the everyday stressors of growing up.

Dr. Emily Lieberman is a board-certified pediatrician with over a decade of experience caring for children and adolescents. She earned her undergraduate degree from Northwestern University and her medical degree from the University of Illinois College of Medicine, completing her pediatric residency at Children's Memorial Hospital in Chicago. A passionate advocate for child health and safety, Dr. Lieberman uses her voice to promote preventive care and family-centered strategies in clinical and community settings. In this episode… ​Do family dinners often turn into power struggles over what your child will or won’t eat? Are you stuck in a cycle of making multiple meals just to avoid tantrums at the table? If you're tired of catering to picky eaters and longing for more peaceful, productive mealtimes, you’re not alone. How can parents reclaim control without turning dinner into a battlefield? According to Dr. Emily Lieberman, a board-certified pediatrician specializing in child nutrition and behavior, the key is to serve one family meal — no exceptions, no substitutions. She highlights the importance of modeling healthy eating behaviors and creating consistent mealtime expectations. When parents stop offering alternate meals and resist the urge to give in to tantrums, stress levels drop, and children begin to engage with a wider variety of foods. Dr. Lieberman also encourages incorporating children into the meal prep process, which fosters curiosity and ownership over what they eat. In this episode of The Coping Podcast, Dr. Leigh Weisz sits down with Dr. Emily Lieberman to discuss how parents can end mealtime battles with their picky eaters. They explore the power of the “no thank you bite,” why snacking habits impact productive dinners, and how to keep mealtimes positive and consistent. Dr. Lieberman also gives advice on when to seek professional help for extreme eating behaviors.

Dr. Debra Kissen is a licensed clinical psychologist and the CEO and Founder of Light On Anxiety Treatment Centers, which specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxiety and related disorders. As an internationally recognized speaker and author, she has co-authored books, including Overcoming Parental Anxiety and The Panic Workbook for Teens. In her recent book, she explores practical tools for parents to manage anxiety and enjoy parenting, drawing from both clinical insights and personal experience. In this episode… Parenting is often described as one of the most rewarding yet challenging experiences, but for many parents, worry and anxiety overshadow the joy. Why does it feel so difficult to stay calm and make clear decisions, especially when your child is distressed? How can you maintain your emotional and mental well-being during parenting challenges? According to Dr. Debra Kissen, an internationally recognized anxiety expert and author, the parent brain is wired for survival, attuning deeply to a child’s emotions through empathy and mirror neurons. While essential for bonding, this connection can amplify anxiety when parents feel their child’s distress as their own. The result is a cycle of heightened emotions where both parent and child struggle to cope effectively. By understanding this wiring and implementing tools for emotional regulation, parents can disrupt the cycle, build confidence, and guide their children through challenges while remaining calm. In this episode of The Coping Podcast, Dr. Leigh Weisz speaks with Dr. Debra Kissen, CEO and Founder of Light On Anxiety Treatment Centers, about overcoming parental anxiety by rewiring the brain. They explore how to identify and manage emotional triggers, practical tools for staying calm in stressful moments, and strategies for fostering self-compassion as a parent. Dr. Kissen also shares advice on relinquishing control and finding more joy in everyday parenting.

Demi Agaiby is the Founding Director and Mental Performance Consultant at Beyond Horizons Performance, a mental performance consultancy for performers and athletes. With over 20 years of commercial and concert dance training and a master’s degree in sport and exercise psychology, Demi has worked with hundreds of performers to master their mindset and mental skills. She has presented at the National Dance Education Organization, the National Dance Coaches Association, the Chicago National Association of Dance Masters, and more. In this episode… Helping young athletes navigate the highs and lows of competitive sports can be a daunting task for parents. How can they support their children through setbacks like injuries, burnout, and performance pressures, all while fostering resilience and joy? According to Demi Agaiby, a mental performance consultant and sports psychology expert, focusing on the process rather than the outcome is crucial for boosting performance during setbacks. She highlights the importance of praising effort, maintaining open communication, and building multidimensional identities that allow young athletes to thrive in and out of their sport. By helping children connect to their “why,” parents can guide them back to their intrinsic motivations during challenging times. Demi also emphasizes creating opportunities for exploration and cultivating transferable skills, such as leadership and teamwork, which carry over into every aspect of life. In this episode of The Coping Podcast, Dr. Leigh Weisz is joined by Demi Agaiby, Founding Director and Mental Performance Consultant at Beyond Horizons Performance, to discuss how parents can build resilience in their young athletes. They explore strategies for managing burnout, balancing identity with sports, and viewing setbacks as growth opportunities. Demi also gives practical advice for creating a support system and fostering emotional intelligence in children.

Dr. Lisa Novak is the Co-founder and Clinical Director of Illuminate Psychological Assessments. As a licensed clinical psychologist, she specializes in neuropsychological assessments for children, adolescents, and young adults and supervises other licensed and pre-licensed clinicians in their assessment work. Her areas of expertise include learning disabilities, ADHD, and the interplay between physical and mental health concerns. Dr. Novak earned her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. In this episode… In today’s digital age, many parents find themselves struggling to balance their children’s screen time with their emotional well-being. With smartphones dominating daily life, how can we help kids develop resilience, strong social skills, and healthy habits both online and offline? According to clinical psychologist Dr. Lisa Novak, the secret is mindful technology use. She explains that excessive smartphone use, especially in younger children, has been linked to increased rates of anxiety, depression, and social isolation. She highlights that over-parenting in real life while under-parenting online creates a dangerous gap, where children are overprotected in person but left vulnerable to the addictive nature of social media. If remained unchecked, this balance can lead to impaired attention, sleep deprivation, and difficulty building real-world connections. In this episode of The Coping Podcast, Dr. Leigh Weisz speaks with Dr. Lisa Novak, Co-founder and Clinical Director of Illuminate Psychological Assessments, about the challenges of balancing tech and childhood. Together, they explore how smartphones and social media impact emotional development, how delaying screen time can improve resilience, and how parents can model healthier tech habits. Dr. Novak also gives advice on creating screen-free environments at home and fostering real-world independence.

Dr. Leigh Weisz is the Founder of Coping Partners, a mental health clinic. As a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice, she was on staff and affiliated with The Family Institute at Northwestern University for several years. She has experience working with children, adolescents, families, and individual adults in areas such as child and adolescent family therapy, grief and loss, and relationship issues. Dr. Weisz earned her graduate degree in clinical psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology with a specialty in children and families. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and Spanish from the University of Michigan, having graduated with honors. Dr. Weisz has practiced in community mental health, hospitals, and outpatient family medicine practice settings. In this episode… Balancing work and family life can feel like an impossible juggling act. Is it possible to achieve a true work-life balance? What steps can you take to manage personal and professional life effectively? According to Dr. Leigh Weisz, a clinical psychologist specializing in family and child therapy, you can achieve work-life balance with the right strategies. She notes that letting go of guilt is crucial for managing the pressures of both work and family. Additionally, Dr. Weisz highlights the importance of creating a supportive network and finding ways to make your work environment more accommodating. When implemented, these tips can significantly reduce stress and improve overall well-being. In this episode of The Coping Podcast, host Dr. Leigh Weisz discusses practical steps to achieve work-life balance. She shares six key strategies, including the importance of letting go of guilt, staying connected with family even when away, and the necessity of self-care. Tune in to discover how these steps can help you manage your responsibilities more effectively and create a healthier, more balanced life.

Kelsey Mora, CCLS, LCPC is a dual-certified child life specialist and licensed clinical professional counselor with over nine years of experience helping children, teens, and parents cope with mental illness, injury, loss, and grief. She has worked in pediatric intensive care units and co-chaired perinatal and pediatric bereavement councils. Kelsey founded her own private practice, Kelsey Mora PLLC, and is the Chief Clinical Officer of Pickles Group, a nonprofit aiding children affected by parental cancer. She is also a registered Wonders & Worries provider, part of the Food Allergy Counselor Network, and the author of "The Dot Method: an interactive tool to teach kids about cancer." In this episode… Navigating the complexities of a cancer diagnosis is challenging for anyone, but how do you explain it to a child? How can parents find the right words to help their children understand such a difficult topic without causing additional fear or confusion? Child life counselor Kelsey Mora recommends beginning discussions early and keeping the conversations age-appropriate and ongoing. She highlights the importance of using simple, honest language and providing consistent emotional support. Interactive tools and visual aids, like Kelsey’s Dot Method workbook, can help children grasp the concept of cancer and its treatments. These methods aid in comprehension and empower children by involving them in the process and addressing their fears directly. In this episode of The Coping Podcast, host Dr. Leigh Weisz sits down with Kelsey Mora, Owner of Kelsey Mora PLLC and Chief Clinical Officer at Pickles Group, to discuss talking to kids about cancer. They explore practical strategies for breaking down complex medical information, the significance of emotional validation and support, and the role of creative, interactive tools in helping children cope with illness.

Michelle Winterstein is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Coping Partners, a practice dedicated to supporting children, adolescents, and families through emotional and behavioral challenges. Michelle received her Master of Social Work degree with honors from New York University and has extensive experience in both hospital and outpatient settings. She specializes in working with young children, adolescents, and their parents, addressing issues such as behavioral problems, anxiety, and social pressures. Michelle also has experience in childhood obesity and is trained in motivational interviewing and change readiness. In this episode… In today's digitally driven world, children are constantly bombarded by social media, impacting their mental and emotional well-being. How can a summer camp experience transform your child's development and independence? According to Dr. Leigh Weisz, a licensed clinical psychologist, sending kids to overnight camp provides a crucial digital detox, freeing them from the pressures of social media. She highlights how children at camp engage in real-world interactions and build meaningful relationships unburdened by online comparisons. Michelle Winterstein adds that camp also fosters independence, as kids make decisions and resolve conflicts without parental intervention. These experiences equip children with essential life skills and boost their confidence, preparing them for future challenges. In this episode of The Coping Podcast, Dr. Leigh Weisz and Michelle Winterstein discuss the transformative benefits of overnight camp for kids. They dive into the importance of a social media detox, the development of independence, and how parents can support their children's resilience from a distance. Tune in to discover practical tips and insights on maximizing your child's growth throughout the camp experience.

Michelle Winterstein is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Coping Partners, a practice dedicated to supporting children, adolescents, and families through emotional and behavioral challenges. Michelle received her Master of Social Work degree with honors from New York University and has extensive experience in both hospital and outpatient settings. She specializes in working with young children, adolescents, and their parents, addressing issues such as behavioral problems, anxiety, and social pressures. Michelle also has experience in childhood obesity and is trained in motivational interviewing and change readiness. In this episode… Sending your child to overnight camp is more than just a summer activity; it's a transformative experience that can shape their development in profound ways. How can parents ensure their children truly reap the benefits of camp? According to Dr. Leigh Weisz, the key lies in preparing both the camper and the parents. She highlights the importance of teaching children essential life skills and fostering independence before they head off to camp. Michelle Winterstein adds that normalizing homesickness and resisting the urge to micromanage are crucial steps. As child psychologists, they emphasize that camp challenges, from coping with homesickness to navigating social dynamics, are opportunities for growth, resilience, and self-confidence. In this episode of The Coping Podcast, Dr. Leigh Weisz and Michelle Winterstein discuss the transformative power of overnight camps. They explore five top benefits for child development, such as fostering resilience and confidence, the importance of a digital detox, and the value of unstructured playtime. Tune in to learn practical strategies to support your child before, during, and after camp, ensuring they gain the most from this enriching experience.

Susanne Phillips Keeley, MA, CCC-SLP, is a licensed speech-language pathologist, an author, and the developer of GOSTRONG®, a unique tool to maximize executive function skills. With over three decades of experience, Susanne specializes in treating individuals with executive function disorders and differences. She has penned titles such as Write This Down: Making your student planner work for you and The Source for Executive Function Disorders. Her expertise and innovative approaches in the field have made her a notable figure, and she is often invited to speak at conferences, educational institutions, and parent groups nationwide. Susanne operates a private practice based in Wilmette, Illinois, where she offers her services as an executive function coach. In this episode… Are your children getting the right amount of sleep, proper nutrition, and adequate planning for optimal performance? How do these fundamental elements impact their executive functioning skills? According to Susanne Phillips Keeley, a seasoned expert in executive function coaching, these fundamental elements directly enhance a child's ability to focus, manage time, and regulate emotions. They provide the brain with the structure to function optimally. Susanne emphasizes that sleep and nutrition are critical for brain health, affecting everything from attention span to problem-solving skills. Conversely, effective planning helps children learn to allocate their resources and time efficiently, significantly improving their executive functioning. By building these basic habits, parents can give their kids the tools they need to tackle academic and everyday tasks easily and successfully. In this episode of The Coping Podcast, Dr. Leigh Weisz welcomes Susanne Phillips Keeley to explore the critical building blocks of effective executive functioning in children. They talk about the importance of sleep and nutrition, practical strategies for improving time management, and the role of parental modeling in developing these essential life skills.

Rabbi Wendi Geffen is a Senior Rabbi at North Shore Congregation Israel, a dynamic community dedicated to celebrating Reform Judaism and fostering connections through progressive Jewish living. Through leadership, guidance, and insightful teaching, Rabbi Geffen has become a pivotal figure in promoting tikkun olam — a Hebrew expression for repairing the world. Her dedication to empowering individuals to explore and define their Jewish identities demonstrates her commitment to the synagogue and the larger Jewish community. Rabbi Geffen's influence extends to national leadership roles, including serving on the executive board of the Chicago Board of Rabbis and participating in various Jewish and community boards. As a respected voice on issues of national importance, she contributes thoughtfully and effectively to public discourse. In this episode… In an era marked by uncertainty and rapid destabilization, parents face the daunting task of raising children in what often feels like an "unhinged" world. How can they ensure their kids feel safe, develop resilience, and maintain a strong sense of identity amid such volatility? According to Rabbi Wendi Geffen — a seasoned leader with deep roots in community guidance and Jewish wisdom — parents should empower themselves and their children to navigate these challenges through discernment, community support, and intentional mindfulness practices. Rabbi Geffen emphasizes the importance of understanding that, despite the chaos, there are elements within our control. By fostering open communication, grounding themselves in traditional wisdom, and embracing modern mindfulness practices, families can find stability and strength. In this episode of The Coping Podcast, host Dr. Leigh Weisz and Rabbi Wendi Geffen of the North Shore Congregation Israel explore strategies for parenting in today's anti-Semitic world. They delve into understanding and addressing parents' and children's anxieties, the impact of societal challenges on family dynamics, and practical tips for incorporating mindfulness and character refinement into daily life.

Dr. Leigh Weisz is the Founder of Coping Partners, a mental health clinic. As a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice, she was on staff and affiliated with The Family Institute at Northwestern University for several years. She has experience working with children, adolescents, families, and individual adults in areas such as child and adolescent family therapy, grief and loss, and relationship issues. Dr. Weisz earned her graduate degree in clinical psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology with a speciality in children and families. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and Spanish from the University of Michigan, having graduated with honors. Dr. Weisz has practiced in community mental health, hospitals, and outpatient family medicine practice settings. In this episode… Parenting in today’s environment comes with unique challenges, particularly when fostering independence and self-confidence in teens. Are you finding the right balance between guiding your child and giving them the freedom to grow? According to Dr. Leigh Weisz, a licensed clinical psychologist with extensive experience in child and adolescent psychology, the solution is to let teens face and learn from life's challenges. Dr. Weisz emphasizes the importance of allowing teens to develop resilience and problem-solving skills by experiencing discomfort and boredom — without being rescued by their parents at every turn. She advises against overprotective behaviors, suggesting instead that parents gradually loosen their grip to enable their teens to build confidence and independence. In this episode of The Coping Podcast, Dr. Leigh Weisz is interviewed by Leslie Randolph of Confidence Coaching For Girls about effective strategies for raising confident and independent adults. They discuss the pitfalls of helicopter parenting, the importance of allowing teens to experience boredom and discomfort, and practical tips for parents to foster resilience and self-reliance in their children.

Dr. Eli Lebowitz is a renowned expert in the field of childhood and adolescent anxiety and serves as the Director of the Program for Anxiety Disorders at the Yale Child Study Center. His expertise includes extensive research on the development, neurobiology, and treatment of anxiety and related disorders, with a focus on how generations and families influence these conditions. Dr. Eli developed SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions), a pioneering parent-based treatment program for childhood and adolescent anxiety. This method — proven effective in randomized controlled trials — shifts the focus from children to parents, helping them modify their children’s behaviors to treat anxiety issues, including separation anxiety, social and generalized anxiety, fears, phobias, panic disorder, and OCD. In this episode… Navigating childhood anxiety can be a daunting task for any parent, especially when facing inadequacy and guilt for failed treatments. How can you support your anxious child effectively without inadvertently reinforcing their fears and anxieties? According to Dr. Eli Lebowitz, a specialist in childhood and adolescent anxiety, the key lies in understanding and adjusting parental behaviors toward this condition. Dr. Eli highlights the importance of reducing accommodations that may exacerbate a child's anxiety, while providing supportive, confidence-building communication. When adopting this approach, rather than forcing your child to engage in distressing activities, recognize your accommodating behaviors to adjust your perspective. In this episode of The Coping Podcast, Dr. Leigh Weisz and Dr. Jeremy Weisz are joined by Dr. Eli Lebowitz, Director of the Program for Anxiety Disorders at the Yale Child Study Center and creator of the SPACE treatment. They explore strategies for managing anxious children, tackling bedtime separation anxiety, and addressing parental disagreements in treatment. Tune in for insights and a “magic tip” for streamlining bedtime routines, essential for parents managing their child's anxiety.

Dr. Mojgan Makki, MD, DFAACAP, is the Founder of Psychiatry Studio, a mental health organization that focuses on treatment, education, and prevention. With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, Dr. Makki is a double board-certified psychiatrist by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. Her extensive experience spans private, community, and university systems, where she has taught and promoted mental health and wellness. Dr. Makki serves on the board of the Illinois Chapter of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and the American Professional Society of ADHD and Related Disorders. In this episode… Managing your child's mental health can feel overwhelming and filled with questions, decisions, and uncertainties. As parents, how can you take the reins and help guide their journey through these challenges? According to Dr. Mojgan Makki, a renowned child and adolescent psychiatrist, the key lies in parents' education and their active roles as advocates for their children. She emphasizes the importance of early detection, diligent documentation of symptoms, and understanding the role of medication in treatment. When considering medication for your child’s mental health disorder, assess how their symptoms impact their daily lives and consult with professionals to evaluate your options. In this episode of The Coping Podcast, host Dr. Leigh Weisz talks with Dr. Mojgan Makki, Founder of Psychiatry Studio, about the pivotal role parents play in managing their children's mental health. They discuss when to consider medication versus continuing with therapy, the role of early intervention and treatment in anxiety disorders, and how to formulate a treatment plan with your child's psychiatrist.

Beth McCormack is a Family Law Attorney and Partner at Beermann LLP, a firm renowned for its advocacy in divorce and family law matters. With an extensive background in family law, she covers complex litigation, mediation, and collaborative law. Her practice philosophy is built on compassion and empathy, recognizing each client’s unique needs. Beth has experience representing children when appointed by the court, allowing her to navigate complex parenting issues. Beth has received numerous accolades and recognition, including Leading Lawyer and Best Lawyer and has been named Top 100 Super Lawyers and Top 50 Women Super Lawyers. Beyond the courtroom, Beth contributes to the legal community through her monthly column in the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin and other publications, sharing best practices and insights on family law. In this episode… Co-parenting after a divorce can feel like navigating a minefield. But even with court proceedings and custody battles, you must put your kids’ needs first and minimize conflict between you and your ex-partner. If you're in the thick of it or just wondering how to prepare, today’s guest shares how to reduce the stress of even the most complex divorce cases. Beth McCormack, a family law expert, explains a compassionate approach to divorce can make all the difference for your family. She emphasizes that divorce doesn't have to be a battlefield. With thoughtful planning, active communication, and supportive resources, it can be a transition that respects everyone involved — especially the kids. In this episode of The Coping Podcast, host Dr. Leigh Weisz chats with Beth McCormack, Family Law Attorney and Partner at Beermann LLP, about turning a challenging divorce into successful co-parenting. They cover the importance of avoiding court battles, how to manage the emotional aspects of a divorce, and some incredibly useful resources for parents and kids alike. Tune in for expert advice on making this life transition as smooth as possible for your family.

Leslie Randolph is a Certified Life Coach and the Chief Wisdom Officer at The Coach Chronicles. With a focus on building self-confidence and intentionality, Leslie specializes in guiding teenage girls and adult women to set life-enhancing goals. Her coaching approach is designed to assist clients in crafting narratives that foster growth, self-improvement, and overall betterment of their lives. After overcoming challenges in self-perception and self-esteem through diligent work and coaching, Leslie made a commitment to share her insights and tools with others. In this episode… Confidence is not just a recommended trait for teenagers — it's a superpower! A teenager armed with self-confidence navigates the tumultuous years of adolescence with resilience, clear thinking, and a stronger sense of identity. But how can parents help their teens develop this crucial quality? According to Leslie Randolph, a confidence coach for girls and young women, nurturing self-confidence involves empowering young people to believe in their inherent worthiness and gifts. Leslie believes with the right resources and mindset, self-confidence can be taught, fostered, and nurtured like any other skill. By helping teens identify negative thoughts and feelings through coaching therapy, they can alter their personal belief systems. In this episode of The Coping Podcast, host Dr. Leigh Weisz converses with Leslie Randolph about the pivotal role of self-confidence in a teen’s development. They discuss the interplay between self-confidence and mental health, the impact of parents and peers on a teen's confidence, and strategies to foster self-belief in teens. Leslie also shares her favorite resources for parents and teenagers.

Dr. Aryn Froum is a licensed clinical psychologist at Froum Health. She helps children, adolescents, adults, and families address challenges, foster resilience, and form better lives. Dr. Froum was a Clinical Staff Member at The Family Institute at Northwestern University. She has worked in private practice for over ten years. Her extensive clinical experience has involved providing outpatient psychotherapy, consulting at a preschool and a summer program for gifted teens, and leading various groups for children and parents. In this episode… OCD is disruptive and difficult to manage without the proper tools. As the parent of a child diagnosed with OCD, how do you give them the right support without encouraging their compulsive behaviors? According to Dr. Aryn Froum, understanding the science behind OCD and learning how to manage it is an essential first step. Parents often accommodate their child’s behaviors to ease anxiety, but this hinders progress and exacerbates the child’s symptoms. Instead, you should work with a therapist to help your child acknowledge OCD as separate from themselves and practice exposure therapy to mitigate fears. In this episode of The Coping Podcast, Dr. Leigh Weisz hosts Dr. Aryn Froum, a licensed clinical psychologist, to talk about OCD in children. Dr. Froum also shares why you shouldn’t reassure or accommodate your child’s behaviors, her approach to treating OCD, and helpful resources to learn more about this disorder.

Dr. Colleen Cira is the Founder and Executive Director of Cira Center for Behavioral Health. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Dr. Cira focuses on providing individual and group therapy services in phases of life issues, women's health, relationship difficulties, eating disorders, and trauma. The Cira Center also offers presentations, clinical supervision, and consultation services. In this episode… In our fast-paced daily lives, it’s often difficult to reserve time for self-care. But rest and mindfulness-based practices are vital to avoid burnout — especially for busy parents. So how can we incorporate meditative techniques into our days to process emotions effectively? According to Dr. Colleen Cira, meditation and mindfulness are crucial for mental and emotional health and preserving relationships. These practices exist on a spectrum that involves daily meditation sessions or moments of awareness. If you’re struggling to integrate frequent meditation sessions in your day, Dr. Cira suggests taking time to recognize your feelings, circumstances, and environment by utilizing the five senses to address your needs. Even the smallest moments of mindfulness can have a positive impact on your mental and physical health. In this episode of The Coping Podcast, licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Leigh Weisz hosts Dr. Colleen Cira, the Founder and Executive Director of Cira Center for Behavioral Health, to talk about the value of meditation in processing emotions. Dr. Cira shares how we can incorporate meditation and mindfulness without breaking our busy schedules, how to become intentional with our actions, and the importance of showing up for ourselves and our relationships.

Nicki Sutherland and Erin Kerpel are two of the five Founders of Gratitude Generation. This nonprofit provides community service opportunities in the Chicago area for children, families, and organizations. Nicki is the Executive Director of the program and a former English teacher. Erin is the Director of Programming and a former school psychologist. In this episode… Gratitude is essential for healing, support, and personal growth. How do you begin practicing gratitude? You can start by signing up for volunteer events, whether big or small. Today's guests share the efforts their nonprofit makes in expressing gratitude. According to Erin Kerpel and Nicki Sutherland, teaching kids the value of gratitude at an early age is crucial. Gratitude Generation’s volunteer events allow children and families to participate in food pantries and random acts of kindness. Through community support, children learn to influence others by making a positive difference in their lives. In this episode of The Coping Podcast, Dr. Leigh Weisz hosts Nicki Sutherland and Erin Kerpel, two of the five Founders of Gratitude Generation, to talk about how they cultivate gratitude through their nonprofit. Nicki and Erin also share the value of allowing kids to appreciate what they have and how they can help those who lack basic needs.

Ben Kessler is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Coping Partners. He has over ten years of experience working with children ages six and up, adolescents, adults, and families. After receiving his Master of Social Work from Loyola University, Ben joined the Jewish Child and Family Services as a Clinician, Clinical Supervisor, and Assistant Director of Outpatient Adult, Child, and Family Services. Ben is skilled at engaging his clients and works from a strength-based perspective, knowing that trust and a solid therapeutic relationship are central to successful psychotherapy. In this episode… Technology and social media use has become increasingly prevalent, especially among kids and teens. While these platforms can provide opportunities for communication, connection, and education, children can also become too dependent on them. How can you establish healthy technology boundaries with your children? According to Ben Kessler, technology addiction occurs when its usage disrupts children’s relationships and behaviors. When this happens, each member of the family must participate in a 30-day abstinence period from technology. This strict boundary allows children to understand technology’s detrimental effect on their mental health, build physical relationships, and discover healthy activities. In this episode of The Coping Podcast, Dr. Leigh Weisz hosts Ben Kessler, Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Coping Partners, to talk about technology addiction in children. Ben also highlights the importance of parents teaching young children the boundaries of healthy technology use and describes what happens when technology is taken away completely.