The challenges today’s young people face are uniquely hard to navigate. From the pressures of social media to the life-changing impact of a pandemic, the effect these obstacles may have on youth mental health can be devastating. These challenges can be especially exacerbated by the experience of a trauma event, which the National Child Traumatic […]
Working at Akron Children’s aligns with Dr. Kelsey Brocker’s goals and aspirations
Dr. Kelsey Brocker, a pediatric psychologist, considers joining Akron Children’s to be a stroke of good luck. It started with a chance encounter in Georgia. “I was discussing my professional goals and aspirations with my parents,” she said. “We were at a restaurant in Savannah, Georgia, where I was born and raised. Someone approached our […]
Kent State University student describes how she overcame depression, panic disorder and social anxiety
Melaina Uhrig, age 19, has always been a singer. She enjoyed it so much that she joined her church choir and later, the Summit Choral Society children’s choir program. Being in front of and among people never bothered Melaina until she started high school. That’s when she lost joy in almost everything that previously gave […]
Two kids, two different mental health journeys for patient family
Parent and mental health advocate Bethany Pierce of Galion, Ohio, reached out for treatment for two of her children for two distinct conditions. Read her own words about her son and daughter’s experiences with counseling. To the extent you’re comfortable, tell us what first prompted you to connect your children with mental health counseling services. […]
“Make mental health as important as physical health” – One mom’s advice to other parents
Bethany Pierce is a mother of four in Galion, Ohio, and long-time advocate for mental health counseling for her children. Knowing that parents struggle to help their kids with mental health concerns, she wanted to share her perspective on this important topic. Young people face so many issues and challenges while they’re growing up, and […]
Encourage performance, not perfection, in sports
Signs your child is passionate about a sport can often be seen in the number of hours they spend playing, watching or talking about it. When this passion turns into an unrealistic drive to perfect their game – throwing a no hitter every game or sticking the landing at every competition – parents should help […]
