Jill's Writing and Play Therapy Page

The Play Therapy Mystery Counseling Session...give away

noreply@blogger.com (Jill Osborne, EDS, LPC) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 20:43:00 +0000

If you are like me, you are on a budget, and don't have a lot of money to always spend on toys or craft materials. That's why I am so glad and inspired to find the Play Therapy Mystery Counseling Session from Dr. Michelle Stangline. In this exercise, the therapist creates and item needed for play therapy or creative therapy with objects he or she already has (no buying anything you don't already have!). I thought this would be a fun exercise to try myself, and involve you! Please visit the "Creative Counseling Play Therapy Mystery Counseling Session" page, check the list of possible items that I might want for my playroom and comment below which one you would like to see me make. After I finish the object I will post a picture of it on my blog. As an added bonus, I will randomly select a reader from the comments who will receive a copy of my book "Sam Feels Better Now! and Interactive Story for Children."

I will be taking votes through Monday February 6, 2012, Thanks!

The Worry Wars: An Anxiety Workbooks for Kids and Their Helpful Adults!

noreply@blogger.com (Jill Osborne, EDS, LPC) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 18:31:00 +0000

I receive frequent referrals for children who experience some type of anxiety, and I found a wonderful resource by Paris Goodyear-Brown titled, The Worry Wars: An Anxiety Workbooks for Kids and Their Helpful Adults!. In this book there are three stories addressing three different types of anxiety children might struggle with ; "Daniel the Dragon Slayer," "Polly vs. Princess Perfect," and "Oscar and Clyde, the Clinging Octupus." The illustrations are black and white color-book style and fun, so you could easily have your child color the pages as you read. After that, there are many activities and reproducible pages that therapists can use, (too many to list them all!) including shields, bubble blow, and my favorite, the worry worms. I have used the stories over and over with children. They are really helpful metaphors explaining anxiety in a way that children can grasp. I would recommend this resource to others who help children work through anxiety issues, and look forward to trying other recourses by Paris Goodyear-Brown. You can purchase this book, other resources, read her biography, and find out about her counseling services at her website, Paris an d Me

Case Notes and Divorce: A Parent's Rights

noreply@blogger.com (Jill Osborne, EDS, LPC) — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 15:43:00 +0000

Case Notes and Divorce: A Parent's Rights

I find that therapist who work with children often work with divorced or divorcing parents. I thought I would share this article from my liability insurance company that I think will be helpful.

Dolls help Women in Kenya Support their Families

noreply@blogger.com (Jill Osborne, EDS, LPC) — Sat, 08 Oct 2011 20:12:00 +0000

I want to introduce you to Garry and Brenda Kean. Garry and Brenda Kean are missionaries in Nairobi, Kenya. You can see more of their story and ministry here. A part of there mission there is through their sewing ministry, Jacaranda Creations, helping women earn a living. Often these women would otherwise turn to prostitution or homemade beer making. Instead these women sew beautiful creations such as dolls, animal toys, bags, and purses.

They recently launched a children's sponsorship program. For $35.00 per month a family or individual can sponsor a child from the slums to go to school. The sponsorship amount includes funds that will allow us to purchase a uniform and shoes for the child, school supplies, school fees and one meal per day. We follow up with the children in the program as well., Jacaranda Kids in this area as well.

I have posted several pictures where you can see the beautiful mother carrying her baby, and if you look closely you can see the baby peeking out from behind her mother. What a beautiful way to show the bond between a mother and child. I wanted to purchase these beautiful dolls they make which is a mother carrying a baby. I can feel confident that not only do I have a great, nurturing toy for my play room, I am also helping other women and children have better lives. Please take a look at their website and check out the Kean's full ministry in Kenya. If you are interested in ordering their beautiful dolls please email me and I will send you Brenda Kean's contact information. They do not have a website where you can order online. These dolls are handmade and are shipped from Kenya. To email me, you can find my address under the Referral Info tab of my blog, or if you click on my profile there is an "email me" button.

Meet The Author Interview with The Practice Institute

noreply@blogger.com (Jill Osborne, EDS, LPC) — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 15:21:00 +0000

Please join me for my Meet The Author Interview, Friday September 30 at 4:00 pm. I will be talking about Sam Feels Better Now! An Interactive Story for Children, follow this link to Register:

Joined Eagles Landing Christian Counseling Center!

noreply@blogger.com (Jill Osborne, EDS, LPC) — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 03:11:00 +0000

I am excited to announce that I have joined Eagles Landing Christian Counseling Center and will be seeing clients at the McDonough and Conyers offices. I am currently taking Cigna and Private Pay Clients. I am pursuing other insurance panels, including Amerigroup and Centpatico. I am a play therapist and a writer, I wrote the book "Sam Feels Better Now," and I help children learn how to cope with traumatizing situations and disabilities. I can see ages 3 and older. I am hoping to find more time to write, blog and teach. If you are interested in referring to me please contact me.

Eagles Landing Office Phone: 770-898-2966 or my

Cell Phone: 404-234-0546.

Email address: kjillosborne@comcast.net

Blog: www.jillosborne.org

Eagles landing website: http://www.eagleslandingchristiancounseling.com/

Thank you for reading!

Talking to Children about Hurricanes

noreply@blogger.com (Jill Osborne, EDS, LPC) — Sat, 27 Aug 2011 14:48:00 +0000

Wondering how to talk to your children about preparing and the effects of hurricanes? Sesame Street has developed a hurricane tool kit to assist parents and children in talking about and preparing for a natural disaster. There are 5 videos, each discussing different aspects of preparation and also tips on dealing with the aftermath, such as having a routine, finding support, and self care. I watched several of the video clips, each about 15 minutes long, and they show realistic emotions, preparations and after effects. You can check out www.sesamestreet.org, click on the parents section and click on the tool kits tab. There are other topics addressed as well. As a therapist, I appreciate the approach that the folks at Sesame Street took on dealing with a disaster that can cause lots of instability for children and their families.

"Always My Brother" Interview with author Jean Reagan

noreply@blogger.com (Jill Osborne, EDS, LPC) — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 02:03:00 +0000

I am thrilled to post this interview of author Jean Reagan, who is the author of "Always My Brother." "Always My Brother" is a story for children who are dealing with sibling death. This is the first book I have read on this specific form of grief, and I highly recommend it for use with clients, and for parents who may be dealing with their own child's death. Please visit Jean's website and read the Story Behind section if you would like more information about their journey of grief, and inspiration for this book.

1. What inspired you to make this a children’s book?

First, some background. In 2005 after a roller-coaster year of hopes and setbacks, our nineteen-year old son, John, died of a drug overdose Jane, our seventeen-year old daughter became an only child. As we faced our grief, I watched how the death of a sibling is discounted. Well-meaning people offered me (and my husband) comfort, but rarely seemed to acknowledge Jane's tragic loss.

Through research I learned that sibling death is often considered the unrecognized grief. Surviving siblings are sometimes even admonished to be “extra good,” because their parents are grieving. In ALWAYS MY BROTHER I wanted to honor siblings for the devastating loss they face, to normalize the contradictory emotions they experience, and to offer them realistic hope.

I chose to write a picture book rather than a teen book for several reasons. A. There are many teen books about loss of all kinds, including sibling death. B. There are no picture books aimed at a young audience on this topic. (In fact, a "Needed Subjects" column in a writers' magazine expressed a need for picture books about the death of a sibling.) C. As an author, picture books are what I write.

On a personal level, I wrote this book because I wanted my daughter to understand that at some level I understand the utter devastationn of her loss.

Because ALWAYS MY BROTHER is aimed at a young audience, it does not exactly mirror our own family story. I made the characters younger and did not specify the cause of death. Yet the book reflects the emotions and experiences of our grief journey. For example, I made sure to include a returning-to-school scene, because that is a particularly tough step for grieving children.

For the grieving child or family I wanted to

--portray and affirm their often confusing, contradictory emotions.

--offer realistic hope that with the passage of time the gripping, paralyzing pain would ease as the family members cherish and honor the memories of their loved one.

--create opportunities for shared conversations.

For friends, extended family, classmates, and teachers observing the grief I wanted to

--provide a window for them to see and better understand the internal grief.

--create opportunities for conversation.

--foster courage in them to reach out to the grieving child or family.

2. Have you written other books before?

I had written over ten picture-book manuscripts, all silly and quirky. ALWAYS MY BROTHER was the first one I sold. When I told my daughter I had sold a manuscript, this one, she hugged me and said, "That's the one I wanted you to sell."

My second book, HOW TO BABYSIT A GRANDPA, will be published by Knopf in the spring of 2012, in time for Fathers' Day! And, yes, it's silly and quirky.

3. Besides writing, what else do you do (do you have another job, stay at home, etc..?)

For four months each summer, my husband and I serve as wilderness volunteers in Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming. We live in a patrol cabin that has no running water or electricity. There are bars on the windows, to keep out the bears. To reach the cabin you hike (or canoe) four miles from the nearest parking lot. Our patrol area has twelve shoreline campsites scattered across three lakes. We love being surrounded by nature, and we love visiting with hikers and campers from all over the world.

The rest of the year I write and enjoy modern conveniences!

4. What is the main lesson you want children to gain from this book?

I want grieving children to feel acknowledged for their loss, comforted that their contradictory, raw emotions are "okay" and normal, and reassured that their excruciating pain will lighten as time goes on because they carry their loved one's memory with them always, in their daily life.

5. What would you tell another parent going through the loss of a child?

If possible, seek out peers for you and your child. By "peers" I mean other parents who have lost children and other children who have lost siblings. Many hospitals and therapy centers have grief groups for all ages. Compassionate Friends is a national non-profit organization that offers comfort, resources, and workshops for grieving families. There are local chapter meetings throughout every state. I am also deeply grateful to my two friends who had lost children before me, because they helped "light the path" on my grief journey. They still do.

Writing in a journal always felt like a chore to me. Yet, after John died, I found it very helpful. I didn't write poetically or lyrically. In fact mostly I made lists. Lots and lots of lists. And they were most definitely NOT "to do" or "should" lists, but instead were "memory," "wailing," or "questions" lists. (The latest issue of Grief Digest includes my article, "Baby Steps for the Non-Journaler.")

Keep talking. Within your immediate family, your broader family. With friends. With colleagues, neighbors, and co-workers.

6. Are you working on any new writing projects for children?

I am in the early stages of two picture book manuscripts: one about a father and toddler's outing to a park and another one about a new sibling. Fingers crossed that these will become books one day!

7. What would you like for child therapists to know about counseling a child and family who has lost a sibling/child?

Our therapist told my husband and me, "Be gentle with yourself. And be gentle with each other." We both found that very helpful, especially as we faced particularly difficult and dark moments.

We all grieve differently; there is no right or wrong way to grieve. That can be a hard thing for couples (or family members) to understand. For example, my husband has never read my book. He is very supportive in every way, (He wrote John's obituary, he faced the media, he created my website, etc.) yet he does not have the emotional strength to face the fictional grief in my book. He is already dealing with all he can. I am perfectly fine and understanding of this. We all do what we can and don't do what we can't.

A book I found particularly helpful is A Broken Heart Still Beats: After Your Child Dies. Two grieving mothers (a journalist and psychotherapist) organize a remarkable compilation of poetry, fiction, essays, and journal entries about the pain of losing a child.

8. What are the top 3 things that helped your family through this loss?

Our family has always been open and honest that drug overdose is the cause of John's death. For us, this decision has made conversations about his death and our grief easier, more helpful, and less guarded. Grieving is devastating enough without coping with layers of judgment or shame!

Anniversaries, birthdays, and holidays are particularly difficult. (As much as I heard this, I was still surprised, over and over.) Creating alternative activities while hanging onto cherished traditions is tricky, but critical to try to balance. Anticipating and planning ahead helps. We joined other families in their celebrations or we traveled to other places to help "mix up" our traditions.

Just like the family of four in ALWAYS MY BROTHER, our family became a family of three. I remember telling the therapist that our family now felt like a three-legged dog, but then right away adding, "But not happy, like all three-legged dogs seem to be." The three-legged dog became my analogy for how our family of three will always be missing that "fourth," but that we would learn to "walk" again and to be happy. Consequently I included the three-legged dog metaphor in my book.

_____________________

For more about my grief journey or about my writing journey, visit www.jeanreagan.com. (Particularly check out the "story behind" or "Frequently Asked Questions" sections.)

"Always My Brother" Can be purchased at: Amazon, Tilbury House, and other major book sellers.

Sandtray Therapy 101

noreply@blogger.com (Jill Osborne, EDS, LPC) — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 03:17:00 +0000

I recently attended a wonderful 2-day sandtray workshop with Denise Filley at Marietta Counseling Center for Children and Adults in Marietta, GA. I have been using sandtray work with my clients since I began this journey of becoming a play therapist, this was the most comprehensive training on sandtray work that I have attended. We covered a range of topics including materials, history of sandtray therapy, and also different perspectives of using the sandtray.

This workshop was highly experiential, including practicing with a partner, group activities, and also individual sandtrays.My favorite part of the training was a partner activity where we did mutual story telling in the sandtray. I had the privilege of practicing that activity with a co-worker, and we took turns picking a figure and adding a story line. I found that after this weekend workshop, we created about 6-7 different types of sandtrays, and I stayed with the same partner throughout the training. At the end of the training we had a larger group tray with about 4-5 different members. We all took turns adding figures until we thought the tray was finished. I found it to be very process oriented, and by the end of the training felt more relaxed and had relieved some stress that I had been experiencing at the time, in addition to feeling like I build some positive relationships with other therapists.

The staff at Marietta Counseling showed professionalism and also hospitality by providing breakfast in the morning, snacks and beverages throughout the training, answering questions, encouraging networking, and also the time they spent setting up all of the sandtray figures!

After this training I felt prepared to go back to work and utilize the techniques we learned right away. I look forward to practicing and increasing my experience using sandtray therapy. I hope to attend future trainings led by Denise Filley, as well as held at Marietta Counseling Center for Children and Adults.

Links:

Denise Filley's Workshop Schedule

Information about Marietta Counseling Center for Children and Adults

Favorite Therapeutic Activities for Children, Adolescents and Families: Practitioners Share their Most Effective Interventions

noreply@blogger.com (Jill Osborne, EDS, LPC) — Sun, 17 Apr 2011 19:05:00 +0000

I am always looking for free or low cost resources, as I am a therapist on a budget (and I am sure there are many of you out there like me!). With so much info on the web it's hard to narrow down what's good, what's not, and how I can find the resources I need for my clients without spending a fortune. That's why I am soooo glad that I was sent this free copy of Favorite Therapeutic Activities for Children, Adolescents and Families: Practitioners Share their Most Effective Interventions, Edited By Liana Lowenstein, MSW, RSW, CPT-S.

This ebook is a compilation of over 100 pages of techniques submitted by multiple therapists. It is divided in to different sections: 1. Engagement and Assessment Interventions, 2. Treatment Interventions, and 3. Termination Interventions. Each intervention lists goals of the intervention, materials, advanced preparation, and detailed instructions. As I read through some of the descriptions, I found them easy to follow and detailed enough that I felt that I could easily follow the intervention. The list of contributors includes 35 different therapists, many of which are authors/presenters themselves. The best part is, that the interventions come from various treatment models, including family, sandtray, and more directive, and also integrative models. I love this, as I pull from various theories myself, and therapists from different backgrounds will all be able to glean from this book due to the wide range of ideas. I recommend this book to any child/adolescent/family therapist looking for creative ideas for their clients, as it is FREE!!! and FULL of creative interventions. What do you have to lose? I will be using this resource for a long time, and can't wait to try some of the ideas with my clients.

Liana Lowenstein is a presenter and also author of multiple books including:

1. Paper Dolls & Paper Airplanes: Therapeutic Exercises for Sexually Traumatized Children (with Crisci & Lay)

2. Creative Interventions for Troubled Children & Youth

3. Creative Interventions for Children of Divorce.

4. Creative Interventions for Bereaved Children.

5. NEWEST PUBLICATION: Creative Family Therapy Techniques: Play, Art, and Expressive Activities to Engage Children in Family Sessions

She has edited: Volumes One and Two of Assessment and Treatment Activities for Children, Adolescents, and Families: Practitioners Share Their Most Effective Techniques, and will be launching Volume Three this year.

To sign up for the free ebook, visit Liana Lowenstein's website and sign up for her free monthly newsletter. You can also view her upcoming workshops.

Stop It Now!

noreply@blogger.com (Jill Osborne, EDS, LPC) — Sun, 20 Mar 2011 02:14:00 +0000

I just wanted to share this new link, which I have also posted under the Parent Resources page. Stop It Now is a great resource about sexual abuse, warning signs to look for and ways to prevent sexual abuse and speak up for your self.

Stop It Now!

Will the Ebook Kill the Traditional Publishing?

noreply@blogger.com (Jill Osborne, EDS, LPC) — Mon, 07 Mar 2011 14:47:00 +0000

I recently ran across this interesting article about the rise of ebooks, and the relationships that may change between authors and readers. I am personally finding this trend fascinating and am excited to see how people are using technology with publishing books, especially books for children. Read this article, and comment about your thoughts. Therapists and others who are interested in writing should definitely consider a move to include ebooks into their work.

70 Excellent Links for Dyslexia

noreply@blogger.com (Jill Osborne, EDS, LPC) — Mon, 21 Feb 2011 02:18:00 +0000

Thanks to Carol Vertz of Online College Courses for sharing this link, parents of children with Dyslexia and also adults with Dyslexia will find some useful resource links here:

70 Excellent Links for Dyslexia Support

Play Therapy Works!

noreply@blogger.com (Jill Osborne, EDS, LPC) — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 16:58:00 +0000

I stumbled across this video describing the value of play therapy for children who experience emotional and behavioral issues. Check it out, and also check out the Association for Play Therapy website for more info on play therapy and to find a play therapist

Financial Success in Mental Health Practice

noreply@blogger.com (Jill Osborne, EDS, LPC) — Sat, 22 Jan 2011 17:08:00 +0000

Recently, I interviewed Dr. Steven Walfish, the co-author with Dr. Jeffrey E. Barnett of "Financial Success in Mental Health Practice: Essential Tools and Strategies for Practitioners" about his book and also surviving as a private mental health practitioner. I think that most mental health practitioners who are in private practice or are planning to be in the future will benefit from this book.

What inspired you and Dr. Barnett to write this book?

I was a frequent responder on list serves regarding the business of practice. An Acquisitions Editor at APA Books asked if I would be interested in writing a book about the financial aspects of running a practice, as there were no such reso

urces out there at the time.

What is your background in private practice?

I went into part-time practice in Tampa, Florida upon receiving my PhD in Clinical/Community Psychology in 1981. After I completed a Research Fellowship I then took the plunge into full-time practice. I remained in practice in Tampa until 1992 when we moved to Seattle. I was in full-time practice in Edmonds and Everett, Washington for ten years. We then moved to Atlanta. I was a visiting professor first at Kennesaw State University, full-time as I started my practice, and then two years later was a half-time Visiting professor at Georgia State University as my practice continued to grow. In 2006 I stopped teaching and concentrated solely on my practice.

Are you working on any other writing projects?

Jeff Barnett and I just completed another book for APA Books that will be published

this summer titled, Billing and Collecting for Your Mental Health Practice: Effective Strategies and Ethical Practice. It is a continuation of our emphasis on our first book in that mental health professionals receive little, if any, training/guidance on the business aspects of a private practice. The book focuses on how to bill and collect and to avoid ethical or illegal behaviors in the process. Lisa Grossman, a Psychologist in Chicago, have just signed a contract for Springer Books titled, “Translating Research into Practice: Researcher and Clinician Perspectives. Academics/researchers will present the evidence-based research on a large number of clinical problem areas and then clinicians will comment on what it is like to try and implement evidence-based practices within clinical practice.

When you’re not writing what else do you do?

My wife is an artist so we go to openings. We also enjoy dining out in the wide variety of restaurants that Atlanta has to offer. I also enjoy watching our local sports teams.

What are other books that you have written?

In 2001 Allen Hess and I co-edited, Succeeding in Graduate School: The Career Guide for Psychology Students. It looks at the application process to grad school, then how to make it through (both academically and politically) through the rigors of program, and then looks at career options. In May of 2010 APA Books published a book that I edited titled, Earning a Living Outside of Managed care: 50 Ways to Expand Your Practice Many people want a practice that falls outside the purview of managed care. Very few know how to accomplish this in their practice. The book presents vignettes of people who are doing this and they discuss their interest in the area and if the reader is interested how to learn more about incorporating the practice activity into their practice.

What are some of the top pitfalls that private practitioners find themselves in?

I think the main one is not viewing our practices as a ‘small business” and that we are ‘small business owners.” Another key one is ignoring our entire skill set (assessment, psychotherapy, consultation, writing, research) in helping us to make a living in independent practice. I believe too often people say, “I only do this or I only do that.’ It limits our options to deliver good services or to develop products.

What tips do you have on thriving in mental health private practice?

Jeff Barnett and I have 20 Principles of Private Practice Success that we present in our book.

Here are the top 5:

1. You Need To Resolve the Conflict Between Altruism and Being a Business Owner

2. It Is Essential That Mental Health Professionals Have Ready Access To Competent Professionals To Answer Questions Outside of Their Areas of Expertise. To Ignore This Places the Clinician at Ethical, Legal and Financial Risk

3. Private Practitioners Need To Become Comfortable With Negotiating From a Position Of Strength. If You Are Desperate For The Job or Income You Will Negotiate From a Position of Weakness. Strength is Found in the Ability to Say No Thank You and Walk Away.

4. Participation In A Managed Care Plan Is Not A Requirement For Being In Private Practice. If You Choose To Participate Clearly Understand, and Emotionally Accept, All Of The Financial and Clinical Ramifications and Limitations Beforehand. If You Do Not Do So You Will Be Setting Yourself Up For A Great Deal Of Frustration During Your Participation.

5. There Are Only So Many Hours In The Week That A Private Practitioner Can Earn Income. Therefore It Is Financially Advantageous To Develop Revenue Steams of Passive Income.

How should a therapist prepare themselves for opening a private practice?

First and foremost of course is to buy our book (tee hee!). Actually there are many good books out there on developing a private practice (Chris Stout, Lorina Kase, Holly Hunt, Lyn Grodzki). I would find appropriate mentors who can teach you about the ins and outs and pros and cons of private practice and perhaps they will take you under their wing. Also be prepared to pay for consultation and program development advice. Mental health professionals tend to “be cheap” and not want to pay for services that will bring them more money (or preserve the money they have) in the long run. There are also professional organizations one can join. For psychologists there is APA Division 42, Psychologists in Independent practice.

Who will benefit from your book?

Anyone considering going into practice. The review of the books have lauded how realistic and practical we try to be. In the Preface Jeff and I point out how many mistakes we have made in a combined 50 years of practice. We want others to avoid making these same mistakes.

Many of my readers work with children, what are some additional considerations when working with children in private practice?

Working with children requires flexibility in hours, especially if it is a long-term case. Parents do not like to take their kids out of school on a weekly basis. So hours may need to be offered after school, early evening, or on Saturdays to optimize filling psychotherapy slots. You also need a waiting room that is “kid-friendly” and office staff that can tolerate children with behavior problems. Working with children also requires working with the adults that control their lives (e.g., parents, teachers, school administrators). So skills in working with adults that can be difficult are an essential part of the job description.

What is one of the most rewarding things about working in private practice?

For me it is in having been able to create my own successful small business. I also get to choose my hours, client populations that I work with, and that I have no boss listening to one of my ideas and saying, “No!”

What is one of the most difficult things about private practice?

The uncertainty of the continued success of my practice. One fact about private practice is that it is always changing and evolving. Some of these changes are within my control and some are not. This is the reality of free enterprise in out culture.

How/when did you decide to start writing?

I have always written professionally, though most has been for formal journal articles. Moving into books was a natural progression for me.

Where can “Financial Success in Mental Health Practice” be purchased?

Through the American Psychological Association, Amazon.com and likely other book outlets.

Horatio Humble Beats the Big "D," by Margot Finke

noreply@blogger.com (Jill Osborne, EDS, LPC) — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 02:13:00 +0000

"When Horatio has difficulty reading, his parents meet with the teacher to discover why. Horatio hears the words Dyslexia and Special Ed. “No way! Kids will think I’m dumb.” But he does go and with amazing results."

I just received a new book by Margot Finke, Illustrated by Ellen Gurak. Horatio Humble Beats the Big “D,” is a book for children dealing with dyslexia. Dyslexia is a common learning disability among children where the brain has difficulty processing written words.

Horatio is an intelligent boy who makes good grades and many school subjects, except for reading. He just can’t make since of all the words. Horatio and his parents go to meet with his teacher and he finds out he has dyslexia. Horatio has many thoughts and emotions about this, and also is worried about what others will think when he has to attend a special class. To his delight, Horatio begins learning ways to read books and even begins to write!

I enjoyed reading this book. The rhyming has a comfortable pace, and the illustrations are colorful and vivid. Margot does a wonderful job of including the symptoms of dyslexia along with common emotions and thoughts a child might have when discovering they have this problem. It also includes a teacher, parent guide in the back with resources and also signs a child might be experiencing dyslexia. I would recommend this book for anyone working with children who have learning disabilities, and plan to use it for my own clients.

Where to buy

Margot's Book Page

Autographed books available here.

Amazon

Powells

Guardian Angel Publishing

Links

Book Trailer

Margot Finke's Website

Reviews

How to Get on Insurance Panels As a Psychologist | eHow.com

noreply@blogger.com (Jill Osborne, EDS, LPC) — Fri, 29 Oct 2010 01:27:00 +0000

I have just begun the process of applying to insurance panels and was looking to find out more information. This is a nice brief article on how to get started if you choose to take insurance for your practice.

How to Get on Insurance Panels As a Psychologist | eHow.com

Books That Heal Kids: About The Blog Author

noreply@blogger.com (Jill Osborne, EDS, LPC) — Sun, 19 Sep 2010 02:34:00 +0000

Books That Heal Kids: About The Blog Author: "Welcome to my blog. I've been working as an elementary school counselor since I obtained my Master's Degree in Education in 2005. Bibliothe..."

Decatur Book Festival 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Jill Osborne, EDS, LPC) — Sat, 11 Sep 2010 14:35:00 +0000

When I found out about the Decatur Book Festival this year, held on September 3-5 2010 in Decatur, GA I had to check it out. This was my first visit to the festival. I visited several authors and venders of interest. There are many more vendors and activities than those listed here. To get a full idea of the the Decatur Book Festival experience you must view this year's web page. It is full of workshops, book readings, musical events, and much more! This is a highlight of what I found interesting, and it was a great opportunity for networking with other authors.

First, I met with Gale Border, who just had her first book published, titled "Totally Buzzed." She described it as a murder mystery, you can find more about her book on her book page and blog.

Then, I met with Diana Black, who has authored several workbooks and educational books for children, including "Little Bitty Kitty,", and "No Words for Wendel."

After that, I ran into a local illustrator and artist, Remi Bryant who illustrates children's books, and also other graphic arts projects.

I also visited the table for "Chloe Pink Doodle and Dream Coloring Book," which I was drawn to by the cover art, and also my niece, Chloe.

Of course a visit to the book fair is not complete without a stop at the Society for Children's Writers and Illustrators (SCWI) table, where I found out there is a regional chapter for Georgia, Alabama and Mississippi, called Southern Breeze This is a must for children's writers to network and improve their craft.

Finally, after a long day at the book fair, I popped in to a local children's book store, Little Shop of Stories, for a little browsing, and of course shameless book promotion! This bookstore is full of children's books, and also young adult books of all genres. The staff is friendly and helpful. They even have a room for the youngest readers (which would include my son who is 18 months old), where we checked out their variety of puzzles, board books and toys.

I had a truly inspiring day where I found the Decatur Book Festival a must see for any author for networking, workshops, entertainment and educating the public about their book. I hope to go next year as a vendor, I can't wait to go back!

"Ruthie and the Hippo's Fat Behind"

noreply@blogger.com (Jill Osborne, EDS, LPC) — Mon, 07 Jun 2010 00:32:00 +0000

“Snotty Kid. Be Gone!”

"Young Ruthie's mood changed overnight, her smiles slunk off in gloom.
She wouldn't talk to Mom or Dad. She refused to leave her room.
Her parents scolded, begged and coaxed, but Ruthie paid no mind,
Her moods grew big and ugly - like some Hippo's fat behind."

At the end of my first read through, of “Ruthie and the Hippo’s Fat Behind,” by Margot Finke, I thought “this is perfect for so many of my kids!”

When Ruthie moved, and left all her friends and old home behind her personality and moods completely changed. She sulked, and became rude to her parents, argued, and had tantrums. Finally, she drove her parents crazy and her father said, “Snotty Kid. Be Gone!” Then, she had a Magic Moment that helped her reconcile with her parents. It ends on a positive note, and Ruthie feels happier.

Changes can affect children in many ways, especially a move far away from friends. Ruthie’s story is like so many children who deal with changes in every day life, and often parents become frustrated themselves. Ruthie and the Hippo’s Fat Behind, by Margot Finke, Illustrated by K.C. Snider, is a light hearted, realistic look at how children often express their emotions. The rhyming feels comfortable to read, and the story has a good pace. It kept my attention throughout. There is a short teacher/parent guide in the back to help adults talk to children about their feelings and also other resources for parents.

Many children who are angry, going through change or a move of any kind would benefit from this story. Ruthie captures these feelings on many levels, including showing anger through arguing and tantrums, and also sulking and feeling bad about herself. As a child therapist, I see many children go through lots of changes and reflect behaviors and emotions like Ruthie. I would recommend this book therapists and parents alike for any child going through change.

“Ruthie and the Hippo’s Fat Behind” is available from G.A.P Publishing (Guardian Angel Publishing) in Soft Cover - CD – eBook download.

(Parent-Teacher guide included)

View the Book Trailer:

Ruthie and the Hippo's Fat Behind

Author: Margot E. Finke www.margotfinke.com
Illustrations: KC Snider www.KCSniderart.com

** Snider is a well known fine artist who regularly shows her work in galleries, as well as known for her book illustrations.

Print ISBN 13: 978-1-61633-059-0
eBook ISBN 13: 978-1-61633-060-6

Where to buy:

Guardian Angel Publishing (GAP)
(GAP) :

Margot Finke

** A Personal Autograph comes with each hard copy bought from Margot's website + a bookmark.

Will also be available from Amazon, B&N, Target and more.

"Am I Bad?"

noreply@blogger.com (Jill Osborne, EDS, LPC) — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 18:07:00 +0000

Fr Heyward Ewart is the Bishop, Diocese of The Risen Lord, Holy Catholic Charismatic Church, President/Academic Dean, St. James the Elder Theological Seminary, and Professor, American Association of Christian Therapists and Institute of Theology and Christian Therapy: May, 2009 to present

He practices in private counseling ministry from 1981 to present

He has a record of presenting and writing on topics related to child abuse, domestic violence, sexual abuse, and substance abuse issues.

His latest book, "Am I Bad," Is a book outlining various concepts about abuse and trauma.

Give a brief synopsis of your book.

The book postulates that victims of child abuse are destined to be victimized their whole lives. The reason is that abuse, being the strongest form of communication, alters the personality so that the child grows up with a "less than" mentality and a warped image of himself (or herself). Graphic case histories illustrate this point, and a new model of personality development is presented.

Tell me about your inspiration for this book.

My own brutalization as a child plus my experiences as a professional psychotherapist made clear the need for such a work. I have seen that the majority of so-called "mental patients" are abused people trying to adjust. They are reacting to mistreatment. But there is no normal way to react to craziness.

Who will benefit from “Am I Bad?”

The book is intended to set victims free by helping them understand the truth about how they formed their false self image. It is also meant for professionals to help them see how child abuse rapes the soul and to suggest ways to treat the devastation suffered by victims.

What other writing projects are you currently working on?

I write regularly for Ezine.com, and have contributed 41 articles thus far. The subject matter includes articles on child and domestic abuse plus spiritual issues.

What other works have you written?

On the Rock: A Defense of the Catholic Faith (with Vincent A. Capozzi)

A Carnation A Day: A Pro-Life Doctor's Story

Contributor to Dean Tong's Elusive Innocence

(The first two are out of print.)

How did you begin writing?

I was an English major as an undergraduate. As a young man, I would read the poetry of Wordsworth, Keats, or Shakespeare, and they would bring me to tears. Writing is an art that has the power to stir the soul. This same art form is perhaps the best way to convict readers in the truth.

Tell about your counseling practice.

I have been a Catholic psychotherapist for nearly 30 years, beginning in Philadelphia. I noticed at the very start of my private practice that I was always treating the "wrong" patient. The family member who shows up for therapy is the one taking the wrap for the dysfunction of the whole family. In time, I realized that nearly all of my patients had been abused in some way and had formed a mangled view of themselves. They had no idea of who they really were or what they might be called to be. This experience led me to the concept of the "adopted self"; that is, the construct formed by other people's opinions and then the experimentation of adolescence.

Tell about your background as a priest, how do you think it influences your work?

A priest must be in contact with the Ultimate Truth on a daily basis. Knowing that only the truth can set people free from mental bondage demands that I speak and write the truth. I can be very patient with people who are undereducated or uneducated but I have no time for those who refuse to learn or who recklessly disregard the truth.
How do you integrate your faith into your work?
I begin each day with the prayer that I will not be permitted to minister to anyone without the guidance of the Holy Spirit. I maintain that no one can understand the soul (mind)of another human being without the direct help of the Holy Spirit. Giving a person a psychological test is like trying to measure the universe with a ruler.

PTSD Treatments for Vets

noreply@blogger.com (Jill Osborne, EDS, LPC) — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 13:39:00 +0000

I Survived the APT Conference!

noreply@blogger.com (Jill Osborne, EDS, LPC) — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 16:55:00 +0000

I Survived the APT Conference!

I went to the Association for Play Therapy Conference in Atlanta, GA last week. What a blast! I enjoyed several workshops, and lots of toy shopping. I even visited the Self Esteem Shop to find my book, Sam Feels Better Now: An Interactive Story for Children, sitting on the shelf. I met with colleagues, friends, and speakers. It reminded me of what I love about APT and play therapy.

Highlights of the conference included a plenary speaker, Dr. Eliana Gil who shared her journey to play therapy, the new Leadership Academy Graduates, and the presentation of the Key Awards, including, APT Service Award , Lifetime Achievement Award, Professional Education & Training Award , Public Education & Promotion Award, Research Award, and Student Research Award.

This was my first Association for Play Therapy National Conference, and I am looking forward to attending again in the future.

Learning to Love Yourself and Connect with Others

noreply@blogger.com (Jill Osborne, EDS, LPC) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Robin Marvel is an author, Empowerment and life positivity coach and motivational speaker for children and adults. Using tools from her “Awakening Consciousness” book series she is expanding creativity and self awareness in beings everywhere.

Robin is Leading Out Loud as the owner of Marvelous Empowerment. Providing a variety of workshops to encourage empowerment in all ages. More information on Marvelous Empowerment can be found at www.aurasenseguide.com, a website designed to strengthen your being while encouraging Universal Awareness.

Check www.aurasenseguide.com for upcoming lectures and workshops.

I Interviewed Robin about her book, "Awakening Consciousness, A Girl's Guide."

How did you first start writing?

I first started writing as a child. I loved being able to create something I could grow and learn from.

What was your inspiration to write “Awakening Consciousness, a Girl’s Guide?”

My inspiration to write “Awakening Consciousness A Girl's Guide!” was my four daughters. I wanted to make sure they were aware of the big picture of life. I also wanted to encourage girls of all ages to love themselves and create a sense of self security within.

What age group is it appropriate for?

“Awakening Consciousness A Girl's Guide!” does not have a specific age group. As a parent you can use it with your children as young as 1, young girls can use it as well as adults. Wherever you are on your path you can benefit from the guide.

What is the goal of the book?

The goal of “Awakening Consciousness A Girl's Guide!” is to create a sense of self security and love within all.

How could your book be used in a therapeutic setting?

My book could be used in a therapeutic setting because it is very motivating and hands on. It offers a variety of empowering, self esteem building exercises that are fun and will create security in whoever is doing them. It is also a workbook so people are able to keep track of their progress.

What advice to parents do you have about using this book?

My advice to parents is to use this book to connect with your child. Encourage your child to explore who they are and love every part of who they are. Allow them to expand on their individuality. As parents we have the opportunity to raise confident, empowered beings that will change our world!

What is your favorite activity in the book? There are so many that look fun! (I liked the idea of the armoa buddy).

This is a hard question. I love all the activities . You are right the aromabuddy is so fun. If I had to pick a favorite I think it would be the ChakraCizes. The chakraCizes really get the people moving and they instantly can feel a shift in their energy so they know they are working!

Where can your book be purchased?

My book can be purchased in any bookstore as well as www.barnesandnoble.com, www.amazon.com and www.lovinghealing.com

What other projects are you working on?

I am fortunate enough to have many projects I am working on. “Awakening Consciousness A Woman's Guide!” will be out in 2010. I am also working on my next book “10 EmPOWERaids to Inspire Mind, Body and Spirit”

I am also the owner of Marvelous EmPOWERment ~ offering a variety of empowering workshops for all ages throughout the world.

Do you have a job other than writing? What is it?

My other jobs include being a mom to four of the most amazing beings as well as the instructor for Marvelous EmPOWERment. I am also an Energetic Specialist and motivational speaker for all ages.

What is an Energetic Specialist, and who could benefit from one?

An energetic Specialist is a person that will help you to raise your energy level through positive activities. You will be educated to know your unique energy profile and guide you towards activities that will strengthen your vibrations.
Everyone could use an energetic specialist. No matter where you are at on your path you can always use coping mechanisms to strengthen your integrated whole.

What are your future plans as a writer/author?

My future plans as an author are to continue to encourage empowerment and self security within all. I plan to keep writing books that will inspire beings to accept who they are with love and gratitude. I want parents to see the importance of teaching their children self security at a young age so they will not need to heal as adults.

Google Book Search Adds Interactive Experience

noreply@blogger.com (Jill Osborne, EDS, LPC) — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 00:35:00 +0000

I was recently encouraged to check out by book, Sam Feels Better Now! An Interactive Story for Children, on Google Book Search. I found it adds a nice interactive component for my book. Check out the imbed at the bottom of my blog, and you can view an excerpt from my book!

You can add an imbed of my book too on your website or blog, just click on the "link" button at the top of the web page, copy, and paste onto your site.