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+ Adolescents

How to calm your child by Dr. Munn, child & adolescent therapist

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How to calm your child by Dr. Munn, Child & Adolescent Therapist in Mountain View, CA & Online Therapist & Coach for Women with ADHD, Anxiety & Depression.

When children and teens are having a meltdown, their amygdala, which is responsible for quickly processing and expressing emotions, and part of the “downstairs” brain, is activated, making it hard to self-soothe, think rationally, and make good decisions.
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One of the things we can do to calm our children and teens is to “name the emotion.” When we label the emotion (e.g., you’re really angry right now now; you’re really disappointed right now), an area responsible for labeling and processing the emotion, the ventrolateral prefrontal cortex, gets activated and helps soothe the “downstairs” brain, causing the child to down-regulate and think more rationally.
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Thus, if you notice your child or teen getting overwhelmed, help them regulate by “naming” the emotion. If your child experiences persistent meltdowns and has a hard time self-soothing, seek a child & adolescent therapist.
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Email: dr.munn.saechao@gmail.com
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Disclaimer: The content in this post is only intended to increase your knowledge on parenting and child development; it is not online therapy. If you’re concerned about your child’s immediate safety please call 911 and consult with a licensed clinician about any clinical symptoms you are observing in your child.

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+ ADHD, Adolescents, Anxiety, Autism, Children, Depression, Parenting

Children Need Boundaries to Control Emotions by Dr. Munn, child & adolescent therapist

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Children Need Boundaries to Control Emotions by Dr. Munn, Child & Adolescent Psychotherapist in Mountain View, CA & Online Psychotherapist & Coach for Women with ADHD, High Functioning Autism, Anxiety & Depression.

Since young children do not yet have the ability to control their big feelings and body, setting limits for children will help them to develop their prefrontal cortex, also known as the “upstairs brain, “which is responsible for emotional regulation, good judgment, problem solving, and inhibition, to name a few.

When we set limits that are concise, clear and consistent, we are developing our children’s prefrontal cortex. By helping our children to understand the rules and limits of our social and cultural environment, we are developing their consciousness and moral compass.

While it may be hard to set limits because we want our children to be happy and receive the desires of their heart, it’s our responsibility as adults and caregivers to help our children to become empathic, morally sound, and productive members of society. One of the ways we can do this is to set limits that are developmentally appropriate, consistent, clear, and concise. Your interactions have a significant impact over your children’s personality development and the people they’ll become as they get older. Knowing this, will you choose to impact them today?

If you need support with setting limits and boundaries, seek a child & adolescent therapist.

Did you like this post? Hit the like button and head over to my social media profiles to learn more. And thanks for reading this post!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.munn/
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LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/drmunn
Webpage: drmunn.com, https://drmunn.com/category/parenting/
Email: dr.munn.saechao@gmail.com

Disclaimer: The content in this post is only intended to increase your knowledge on parenting and child development; it is not online therapy. If you’re concerned about your child’s immediate safety please call 911 and consult with a licensed clinician about any clinical symptoms you are observing in your child.

+ Self-care

Self-care: Running by Dr. Munn

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Self-care: Running by Dr. Munn|Child & Adolescent Psychotherapist in Mountain View, CA|Online Therapist & Coach for Women|Treating ADHD, Anxiety, Depression & High Functioning Autism

I woke up this morning thinking that I wasn’t going to run because of all the things I had to accomplish today. Quite honestly, I wasn’t in the mood and I didn’t have the motivation or energy. I had a challenging week and decided to take the day off from exercising. However, at 7:30pm I decided to go on a run.⠀

Sometimes we do do things not because we want to, but because it’s good for us. When things get harder at work or at home for example, that’s when we have to be more intentional about taking care of ourselves. Truthfully, I’m a better person, friend and therapist because I run. I reminded myself of this today! And although I may look a bit tired here, I’m so glad I went on this run!! 🏃🏻‍♀️⠀

Did you like this post? Then follow my blog and head over to my website, Drmunn.com to learn more. Thanks in advance for reading this!

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+ Self-care

Self Care Tip: Spending Time with Friends by Dr. Munn

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Self Care Tip: Spending Time with Friends by Dr. Munn, Child & Adolescent Psychotherapist in Mountain View, CA & Online Psychotherapist & Coach for Women with ADHD, High Functioning Autism, Anxiety & Depression.

One of my favorite self-care activities is to spend time with friends and celebrate life. There’s nothing like being in a room full of beautiful, intelligent psychologists and psychotherapists! Everyone is so warm, caring, and personable! Today, we celebrated my friend’s baby at her “baby sprinkle.” I recently learned that “sprinkle” is a term used for second pregnancies and more! Had no idea! 😄

This morning, we laughed, connected, and ate delicious gluten free donuts and french fries in a lovely setting! I feel honored that this beautiful woman, amazing mother, and lovely human being, Renata, aka Dr. Way is in my life!  I look forward to many more experiences together and I’m so excited to meet this baby!

Who are you grateful for today? I would love to hear from you!

Lastly, subscribe to my blog so you won’t miss out on any parenting and self-care tips. And thanks in advance for reading!
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+ Uncategorized

When Children are Struggling to Calm Down by Dr. Munn

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When Children are Struggling to Calm Down by Dr. Munn Saechao, Child & Adolescent Psychotherapist in Mountain View, CA & Online Psychotherapist and Coach for Women with Adhd, Autism, Anxiety & Depression.

When children feel angry, rejected, shamed, embarrassed, overwhelmed, or dysregulated in any way, they need us to be there for them; in other words, they need us to connect.

Connection might mean a hug, a soft touch, a soft look, or validation of their emotions. When we connect and soothe our children, they regain control.

Connection is key to emotional regulation, particularly for young children who have very limited capacity to modulate their emotions and behaviors.

Once children are in calm state, the next step is to ask yourself this, “Is my child ready to hear me; ready to learn; ready to comprehend?” If the question is no, more connection is needed. If it’s yes, teach the lesson.

Did you like this post? Then follow my blog and head over to my social media profiles to learn more. Thanks in advance for reading this!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.munn/
Facebook: http://facebook.com/counselingwithdrmunn/
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/drmunn
Webpage: drmunn.com, https://drmunn.com/category/parenting
Email: dr.munn.saechao@gmail.com

Disclaimer: The content in this post is only intended to increase your knowledge on parenting and child development; it is not online therapy. If you’re concerned about your child’s immediate safety please call 911 and consult with a licensed clinician about any clinical symptoms you are experiencing.

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+ Adolescents

What Children & Adolescents Need When Having a Meltdown

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What Children & Adolescents Need When Having a Meltdown by Dr. Munn, online therapist and coach for professional women with ADHD, anxiety and depression and child and adolescent therapist in Mountain View, CA

Often times, parents are perplexed at why their overall responsible and mature child or adolescent has a meltdown. Let’s pause for a moment and reflect on our experience. Our ability to regulate our emotions will fluctuate based upon a lot of factors, such as sleep, diet, workday stress, etc. Thus, it’s unreasonable to expect an adolescent to always have it together.⠀

When our children are struggling to control their emotions, they need our connection and our calming presence. I realize that the modern parent has an extensive daily checklist, yet when we are intentional about slowing down long enough to attend to their emotions and behaviors in the moment, they will feel seen, validated, and loved by us.⠀

And when I mean attend, I don’t mean, lecturing and asking them, “why are you having a meltdown (when they’re in it)? I told you so…” These statements and questions are often not effective and escalate the situation.

Instead, maintain a calm presence, acknowledge their feelings and provide them with words of affirmation. When they are calmer, they will be able to receive and take in what you have to say. ⠀

Did you like this post? Then follow my blog and head over to my social media profiles to learn more. Thanks in advance for reading this!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.munn/
Facebook: http://facebook.com/counselingwithdrmunn/
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/drmunn
Webpage: drmunn.com, https://drmunn.com/category/parenting
Email: dr.munn.saechao@gmail.com

Disclaimer: The content in this post is only intended to increase your knowledge on parenting and child development; it is not online therapy. If you’re concerned about your child’s immediate safety please call 911 and consult with a licensed clinician about any clinical symptoms you are experiencing.⠀

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+ Self-care

It’s my birthday and it’s time to celebrate!

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It’s my birthday and it’s time to celebrate! by Dr. Munn, online therapist and coach for professional women, and child & adolescent psychotherapist in Mountain View, CA

t’s August 1st and it’s my birthday!!! I used to think that birthday celebrations were so overrated but now I love celebrating my birthday because of it’s symbolism! Birthdays are a wonderful time to slow down, reflect, and consider areas of growth, accomplishments, and aspirations. 2018 was an amazing yet incredibly difficult year, but 2019 is something else! I feel so grateful for the opportunities that have come my way and I’m excited for the journey ahead! I’m also thrilled for today’s festivities! I think I’m going to celebrate my birthday for the whole month. I mean, why not?! What do you like doing on your birthday?! I need ideas… 😊

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+ Self-care

Mindfulness by Dr. Munn

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Mindfulness by Dr. Munn, online therapist and coach for professional women, and child & adolescent psychotherapist in Mountain View, CA

Mindfulness is the state of being present with the mind, body and spirit.

Nature allows me to slow down and disconnect from the stressors and demands of daily living. In fact, I find the need to be in nature at least once a week. Of course it takes time and effort, but the pay off and gains are great!

My mood is better, I’m burning fat (I know why you’re thinking, what is she talking about?), my mind slows down and my thoughts get clearer; in fact, my most creative thoughts will often come when I’m running or hiking; I get vitamin D, and a little tan while I’m at it (with sunscreen on of course)! These are several reasons for why I hike in nature! 

How about you? Why do you hike or walk in nature? Please share. 

Did you like this post? Then follow my blog and head over to my social media profiles to learn more. Thanks in advance for reading this!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.munn/
Facebook: http://facebook.com/counselingwithdrmunn/
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/drmunn
Webpage: drmunn.com, https://drmunn.com/category/self-care
Email: dr.munn.saechao@gmail.com

Disclaimer: The content in this post is only intended to increase your knowledge on parenting and child development; it is not online therapy. If you’re concerned about your child’s immediate safety please call 911 and consult with a licensed clinician about any clinical symptoms you are experiencing.

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+ Self-care

Self-care Tip by Dr. Munn, online therapist & coach

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Self-care Tip by Dr. Munn, online therapist and coach for professional women with ADHD, anxiety & depression, and child & adolescent psychotherapist in Mountain View, CA

I love being near water. I have a visceral reaction when I see a lake, a river, or the ocean. My eyes light up, I start to smile, I become very present to the experience, and I suddenly notice a positive shift in my mood. One of ways we can improve mood is by being outdoors. I often encourage patients to get out more and move around to improve their overall physical, emotional, and spiritual health. Today, my hope is that you get out and enjoy all that nature has to offer!

Did you like this post? Then follow my blog and head over to my social media profiles to learn more. Thanks in advance for reading this!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.munn/
Facebook: http://facebook.com/counselingwithdrmunn/
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/drmunn
Webpage: drmunn.com, https://drmunn.com/category/self-care
Email: dr.munn.saechao@gmail.com

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+ Adolescents

Parenting

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Parenting by Dr. Munn, online therapist and coach for professional women, and child & adolescent psychotherapist in Mountain View, CA

While this sounds simple, it can be hard for parents to provide children with a nurturing yet boundary oriented home environment. Why? ⠀

Parents are often inundated with the demands of daily living. Between working, cooking, cleaning, taking the kids to/from school and activities, etc., parents are often stressed and sleep deprived, making them prone to react and argue, bribe, give into their child’s demands, and fire consequences. Thus, it’s important to take a moment to breathe because this will increase your chance of responding appropriately to the situation.⠀

Now, keep this is mind: be intentional; try to meet the emotional needs of your child; set clear and reasonable expectations; and follow through without being too rigid.⠀

Did you like this post? Then follow my blog so you won’t miss out on any tips and head over to my website at drmunn.com to learn more.

Disclaimer: The content in this post is only intended to increase your knowledge on parenting and child development; it is not online therapy. If you’re concerned about your child’s immediate safety please call 911 and consult with a licensed clinician about any clinical symptoms you are experiencing.

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+ Adolescents

Before you respond to your child’s misbehavior, consider this…

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Before responding to your child’s misbehavior, consider this… by Dr. Munn Saechao, child and adolescent psychotherapist in Mountain View, CA and online therapist for professional women of color.

I’ve worked with many well informed and loving teachers and parents who respond to their children and adolescents with consequences out of overwhelm, frustration, and exhaustion. ⠀

When your child misbehaves, it’s important to pause, breathe, and consider “why” your child might be acting out. For example, is it to get your attention? Is it to express a biological need? And is it developmentally appropriate? Asking these questions will increase your empathy and odds of effectively responding to your child’s developmental needs.

Second, ask yourself, “what” do I want to teach my child in this moment? Do I want to teach them to be more patient or be more diligent about studying independently for example? Whatever it is, be intentional about want you want to teach your child in the moment.

Third, consider how best to teach the lesson. If you want to motivate your child to do well academically for example, rather than threatening to take away something (e.g. football, video games, etc.), encourage them to try their best; reward them for studying and working really hard, and be consistent.

A reward can be simple and small such as a labeled praise and/or gesture (e.g. I’m so proud of you for your hard work, extra hugs and kisses). You know your child and what motivates them. Just make sure the reward is genuine, reasonable, and earned.

The hardest part about all of this is to pause, breathe, and think, especially when overwhelmed and under pressure. Yet when you practice this type of self-control and thinking, you model for your child emotional regulation and critical thinking, and you are helping them to develop their executive functioning skills.

Did you like this post? Then follow my page to get free parenting tips and mental health information.

Want to learn more? Head over to my social media profiles.

Webpage: drmunn.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.munn/
Facebook: http://facebook.com/counselingwithdrmunn/
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/drmunn
Email: dr.munn.saechao@gmail.com

Disclaimer: The content in this post is only intended to increase your knowledge on parenting and child development; it is not online therapy. If you’re concerned about your child’s immediate safety please call 911 and consult with a licensed clinician about any clinical symptoms you are observing in your child.⠀

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+ Adolescents

What Children & Adolescents Need to Feel Loved

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What Children & Adolescents Need to Feel Loved by Dr. Munn Saechao, child & adolescent psychotherapist in Mountain View, CA and online therapist for professional women of color.

Children and adolescents experience love when we create clear, consistent and concise boundaries for them. In fact, children and adolescents need these boundaries in order to develop self-control and a moral compass.

Predicability allows children and adolescents to feel safe. When children experience safety, this allows them to express curiosities, explore their interests and talents, show vulnerabilities and learn from mistakes, thus allowing them to develop into healthy adults. 

High yet reasonable expectations accompanied with access to resources allow children and adolescents to be challenged, and develop perseverance, motivation, and agency, which are internal tools necessary for children to reach their full potential.

Remember, we show love to our children when we give them what they need, and that is boundaries, predictability, and setting high yet reasonable expectations for them.

Did you like this post? Then follow my page to get free parenting and mental health tips.

Want to learn more? Head over to my social media profiles.

Webpage: drmunn.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.munn/
Facebook: http://facebook.com/counselingwithdrmunn/
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/drmunn
Email: dr.munn.saechao@gmail.com

Disclaimer: The content in this post is only intended to increase your knowledge on parenting and child development; it is not online therapy. If you’re concerned about your child’s immediate safety please call 911 and consult with a licensed clinician about any clinical symptoms you are observing in your child.

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