The Mental Health Connection: Breaking Free from Shame

by Meredith Metscher, MPH of Atlanta Specialized Care for The Aha! Connection

Shame is a universal part of the human experience and yet, it lies in the shadows, often undiscussed. It is important to make the distinction between shame and remorse. Remorse can be a healthy part of someone’s emotional experience. It can help you reevaluate your thought patterns and behaviors when they cause problems and hurt others or yourself.… Read More »

The Mental Health Connection: Is it Tech Use or Abuse?

by Ross Mills, MS, NCC of Atlanta Specialized Care for The Aha! Connection

Is it Tech Use or Abuse?

Technology is ever-present in our lives. Everyday items like phones, laptops, tablets, and video games are used daily by individuals of all ages. Advancements in technology have enhanced how we communicate, entertain ourselves, and work, making daily tasks easier and more enjoyable.… Read More »

The Mental Health Connection: What to Know About Disordered Eating vs. Eating Disorders

by Megan McKinney, LMSW of Atlanta Specialized Care for The Aha! Connection

In the age of dieting, thin ideals, and injectable weight loss drugs, dialogue around body shape and size is just as prevalent as ever. Through social media, conversations with friends, and even from medical providers, many people are feeling the pressure to change how they look in order to meet societal standards.… Read More »

Style Moment: Nail Polish Colors for Spring + GIVEAWAY!

Submitted by The Aha! Connection Style Editor for The Aha! Connection

In preparation for all the spring breaks, I thought I would post a quick nail polish update.  As I mentioned in a previous post, the game has really changed with the introduction of dipping and gel nails.  With these options mani/pedis are lasting 3 weeks plus, so choosing the correct color is important!  … Read More »

Ask Tatiana: What’s up with the trend in parents making alcohol accessible to their teens?

Dear Tatiana,

Am I missing something? I am surrounded by a trend in parents turning their head or even worst, making alcohol accessible to their teens. I keep hearing “they are going to do it anyway, at least this way I know they are in my home.” This seems crazy to me, but now I am questioning if maybe I am doing something wrong as a parent.Read More »

Ask Tatiana: What is a first session like? Do you go in with a “problem?” Who starts talking? 

Natalie Stadnick-Uhl from Atlanta Specialized Care gives some tips about counseling sessions:

While it can vary some between counselors — everyone has a different style — the first session is usually an “intake” session. You’ll fill out forms either in the office or prior to the appointment explaining any medical or social history that you’d like to share and be provided with information about limits to confidentiality. … Read More »

Odin Enterprises and Atlanta Specialized Care Announce Partnership

Odin Enterprises, a security solutions provider, and Atlanta Specialized Care, a professional counseling practice, are pleased to announce a partnership between the organizations.

Odin Enterprises has strong relationships with strategic partners, trusted advisors, and industry experts, who include some of the most knowledgeable individuals in the country on the topics of crisis management, workplace violence, forensic and clinical psychology, threat assessment, security, safety and trauma.… Read More »

Mental Health Counseling Scholarships Available for Front Line Workers

In case you hear of anyone in need:

Atlanta Specialized Care is providing a limited number of scholarships covering 100% of individual treatment costs for front line workers whose mental health has been impacted by their service during COVID-19. They have offices in Dunwoody and Alpharetta.  Interested parties should contact Tatiana Matthews tmatthews@atlantaspecializedcare.com

Tatiana Matthews MS, LPC, CRC
Atlanta Specialized Care
www.atlantaspecializedcare.comRead More »

Ask Tatiana: My high school daughter was just diagnosed with a learning disability…?

Dear Tatiana,

My high school aged daughter was just diagnosed with a learning disability. She is devastated. How can I help her feel better?

Thanks,

Heart Broken Mama

 

Dear Heart Broken Mama,

It is normal for a child (and their family for that matter,) to grieve the diagnosis of a “learning disability.” Typically, a lack of understanding and education regarding the diagnosis tends to feed negative beliefs about self and what the future may hold.… Read More »

Ask Tatiana: Social Distancing Activities For Families

Tatiana asked one of her fellow counselors to share with us an article regarding social distancing activities for families.

By Theresa Westfall MS, LPC for The Aha! Connection

The recent concerns about the spread of COVID-19 have created major ripple effects. Many children are home from school and many parents are working from home (when they are able) or taking time off from work.… Read More »

Ask Tatiana: Coping with Anxiety During Coronavirus

Tatiana asked one of her fellow counselors to share with us an article regarding coping with anxiety during  the Coronavirus. Neitcha Thomsen is an LCSW and certified in treating anxiety. She sees clients in both their Dunwoody and Alpharetta locations.

by Neitcha Thomsen, LMSW, LCSW, Atlanta Specialized Care

   Stress is a reaction to something happening now.… Read More »