Shawna Bernath, MS, LMFT

04/09/2026

Testing week can feel overwhelming for kids, but small, practical supports can make a big difference.

Focus on what helps their body and mind stay regulated: consistent routines, enough sleep, steady meals, and calm encouragement.

You do not need to add pressure. Your presence and support are what help them feel confident and ready.

08/30/2025

School shootings shake us to the core. While we grieve, we also must look at the bigger picture. Real change is limited by political gridlock and a lack of resources.

Mental health and education are consistently underfunded, leaving schools without the counselors, screenings, and prevention efforts that could save lives. Investing in these areas is not optional, it is vital for the well-being of our children and the safety of our communities.

What role do you believe mental health and education should play in creating safer schools?

08/18/2025

📚Back to school season brings big emotions for kids, sometimes excited, sometimes nervous, and that’s okay. Both feelings are normal when new routines, teachers, and classrooms come into play.

One way to ease the transition is to practice the routine ahead of time: morning prep, bedtime schedules, even a walk to the bus stop. Take time to connect with your child, listen to their worries and share your own back to school memories so they feel understood.

Help them carry simple coping tools like deep breaths, positive self talk (“I can do this”) or a small comfort item in their backpack. Remember, these transitions may feel overwhelming, but they are also opportunities for resilience, confidence, and new friendships to grow.

Parents, you’ve got this and so do your kids! ✏️

07/21/2025

Summer means more together time… which often leads to more sibling squabbles. 🫠
Instead of jumping straight into referee mode, try supporting your kids with these therapeutic tools:
1️⃣ Name the Need – Often, “He’s annoying me!” really means “I need space.” Help your child translate behavior into needs.
2️⃣ Set Clear ‘Alone Time’ Signals – Let each child have a way to ask for space—like a “break buddy” toy or a designated corner.
3️⃣ Practice ‘Do-Overs’ – Instead of punishing rude words, say: “Let’s try that again with kind words. I know you can.”
4️⃣ Narrate the Moment – “It looks like both of you want the same toy. That’s tough. Let’s find a way to solve this together.” (This models problem-solving without blame.)
5️⃣ Praise Peacemaking – Catch them being kind: “I noticed you let your brother go first. That shows real patience.”
Sibling relationships can be strengthened this summer, with support, modeling, and a little therapeutic magic. 💛
➡️ Save this for your next sibling showdown and share with a fellow parent who’s had just about enough 😅

09/29/2023

https://www.douglascochildtherapy.com/post/when-children-seek-the-negative-and-what-to-do-about-it

In the movie, Here Comes Waves Bing Crosby sang a song that rings true for this mornings blog post. You have to "Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate the Positive" and to eliminitae the negative, latch on to the affirmative, and don't mess with Mister In Between. Shine the light on what you want to grow and attempt to....

08/23/2023

Swipe ➡️ to see 7 behavioral concerns parents may have for their children. These behaviors can begin to impact school performance once kiddos get more settled into the school year, thus having parents seek out more therapeutic supports.
Which symptoms are you seeing more of in your office, classroom, or at home? In my office, we’re having more discussions of focus and attention as well as struggles with prioritizing responsibilities and time management.
For more information, read the blog here: http://wix.to/OuknOUu?ref=2_cl
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