Rice Psychology Group, Author at Rice Psychology

Therapy in Tampa for Children with Big Emotions: Turning Meltdowns into Moments of Growth

Children who experience big emotions aren’t “bad” or “difficult”—they’re often sensitive, perceptive, and emotionally rich individuals. However, without the right tools, these children may feel overwhelmed by their feelings, leading to meltdowns, outbursts, or shutdowns. Therapy Tampa services are designed to help these children understand their emotions and learn how to manage them effectively. Rather than trying to suppress their feelings, therapy helps children explore the why behind their reactions and how to respond instead of react. Support Emotional Regulation Through Evidence-Based Tools Tampa therapists use a range of age-appropriate techniques to help children gain control over their emotional responses. Emotional regulation doesn’t...

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How a Psychologist in Tampa Can Support Children Struggling with Life Transitions

Big life transitions—such as divorce, moving to a new city, or starting a new school—can be especially challenging for children. These changes often trigger confusion, anxiety, or emotional outbursts that aren’t always easy to explain. A trusted psychologist in Tampa can help children process these experiences and develop healthy ways to manage their feelings. While change is a natural part of life, children need guidance and support to navigate it successfully and with resilience. Understand the Emotional Signs That Suggest Your Child Needs Help Not all children express emotional stress in obvious ways. Some may withdraw, while others act out or become unusually...

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Tampa Counselors for Children: How Counseling Builds Emotional Intelligence and Self-Esteem

Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize, understand, and manage emotions—both your own and those of others. For children, developing this skill early can shape how they handle relationships, school stress, and life challenges. Tampa counselors focus on emotional growth as a key component of therapy, helping children feel more in control of their inner world. When children learn how to name and navigate their emotions, they gain the foundation needed for lifelong mental wellness. Discover How Therapy Builds Self-Esteem from the Inside Out Low self-esteem can show up in many ways—withdrawal, self-criticism, people-pleasing, or anger. Through counseling, children begin to see themselves...

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Working with a Child Psychologist in Tampa: What to Expect from the First Session On

The decision to meet with a child psychologist in Tampa is often made with hope, care, and concern. Whether you're navigating anxiety, behavioral changes, or school difficulties, therapy can offer meaningful support. Understanding what to expect from the first session through ongoing care can ease any uncertainty and prepare your family for a positive experience. The journey begins with compassion, patience, and a personalized approach to your child’s emotional and developmental needs. Know What Happens During the Initial Session The first session is designed to build trust between your child and the therapist, as well as gather background information. This time is less...

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Is My Child Gifted? How Gifted Testing in Tampa Can Provide the Answers You Need

Gifted children often display unique thinking patterns, advanced problem-solving skills, or a deep curiosity about the world around them. While each gifted child is different, early recognition can help families support both their intellectual and emotional development. If your child shows signs of giftedness, gifted testing Tampa may provide the clarity and direction you’re looking for. Common Indicators of Giftedness: Quick learning and strong memory retention Intense curiosity and deep questioning Advanced vocabulary and verbal skills for their age Emotional sensitivity or heightened empathy Creative problem-solving and independent thinking Recognizing these traits early is key to meeting your child’s potential both academically...

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Tampa Therapists Share 5 Ways to Support Your Child’s Mental Health at Home

One of the most effective ways to nurture a child’s mental health is by creating predictable routines. Children thrive on consistency—it helps them feel safe, reduces anxiety, and builds emotional stability. Tampa therapists often emphasize daily structure as the foundation for healthy development. Try implementing routines like: Consistent wake-up and bedtime schedules Daily meals together to check in emotionally Homework and screen-time boundaries Scheduled downtime for rest and play Even simple rituals like reading before bed or talking about the day can create a sense of emotional security and connection. Listen with Presence: Active Listening Builds Trust When children feel truly heard, their confidence...

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Back-to-School Season: Supporting Your Child’s Mental Health and Your Own

Consider the following as it relates to this week’s blog: The alarm buzzed at 6:15 a.m., and our entire family was already dreading the chaos of the morning. Lunches hadn’t been packed, homework still sat unfinished on the kitchen table, and my youngest was tugging at my sleeve, asking what was for breakfast. The first day of school always feels like a marathon that started before the sun even rose and seems to start the year off in a stressful way. The pressure of keeping it all together during the school year leaves us all feeling drained, guilty, and anxious....

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Confidence vs. Cockiness: Understanding the Difference and Its Impact on Mental Health

Consider the following as it relates to this week’s blog: Do you ever wonder how much confidence is just right—and how much is too much? When I head into the show ring, no matter what horse I’m on, I want to feel not just that I believe in us, but that I know we’re prepared and capable of tackling the job ahead. That feels like the sweet spot. But then there’s this other layer: is there a difference between knowing you can win and believing you should win? Have you ever caught yourself thinking that if you’re jumping lower than...

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Supporting Your Child’s Mental and Emotional Well-Being Through the Storm

For families living in Florida and other coastal regions, hurricane season isn’t just about preparing your home—it’s also about preparing your heart and mind, especially when you have children. While adults may understand the science behind storms and feel a sense of control by watching forecasts or creating emergency kits, children experience things very differently. Loud winds, power outages, changing routines, and the unknown can leave them feeling scared, anxious, or confused. At Rice Psychology Group, our therapists in Tampa often work with children and families around this time of year to help them build emotional resilience and feel safe—even when things...

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Helping Your Teen Grow into a Compassionate, Emotionally-Aware Adult

Raising a teenager can feel like navigating a rollercoaster of emotions—one minute they’re confident and calm, and the next, they’re overwhelmed, frustrated, or withdrawn. As parents, it’s natural to feel unsure about how to support them through these ups and downs. But two of the most valuable skills you can teach your teen—skills that will serve them for life—are empathy and emotional regulation. At Rice Psychology Group, we work with many families who are looking for ways to help their teens become more emotionally aware, compassionate, and resilient. Here’s what we’ve learned—and what we share with parents—about building these vital emotional...

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