Sextortion, AI, and the Vulnerability of Teens and Children

on April 17, 2025 at 3:19 PM /

Blog

I (Dr. Anna Schrack) recently got a message from my sister who lives in Kentucky. She messaged my three sisters and me, telling us that there was a kid in her school district who had completed suicide because of artificial intelligence and bullies online. She wanted us to be aware and talk to the kids that we know about these new dangers. I never could have predicted the prevalence of AI sextortion. Since that message from my sister, I have seen stories about four children who have altered their lives and the lives of those around them because of similar situations: James...

Mindfulness: Nervous System Literacy

By Jess Sheerin, M.A.

on April 17, 2025 at 3:11 PM /

Mindfulness isn't about clearing your mind but not getting dragged by it. In a world that never seems to stop, mindfulness offers a pause—a way to regulate your nervous system and avoid being hijacked by all the noise. Most people tend to see mindfulness as another trendy pop psychology trick that sells the idea that it can finally fix everything and deliver the life they want. Common advice sounds like, "Just clear your mind," "Breathe," and "Float above your problems." These oversimplified narratives leave many people disinterested or skeptical, especially when life feels anything but simple. And yet, mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs)...

Navigating Social Media: Helping Your Teen Maintain Healthy Digital Boundaries

By Rice Psychology Group

on April 7, 2025 at 2:19 PM /

Parenting

In today’s digital age, social media has become an integral part of everyday life, especially for teenagers. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat offer exciting ways to connect with friends, explore interests, and even gain popularity. But with all the benefits, social media also presents unique challenges that can affect a teen’s emotional well-being, self-esteem, and sense of balance. As a parent or guardian, one of your most important roles is helping your teen navigate the digital world in a way that promotes healthy boundaries and protects their mental health. Our team of licensed Tampa psychologists and therapists are here...

When They Ruin the Rainbow Sandals—And Other Lessons in Letting Go

By Rice Psychology Group

on March 31, 2025 at 10:19 AM /

Blog

The other day, after a storm in Ocala, I found Milo—freshly groomed (30 minutes earlier), pristine, and fluffy—rolling gleefully in a mud puddle. There was nothing I could do but laugh. He was living his best life, and after all, it’s only mud. That moment brought back a childhood memory. When I was little, my mom bought me a pair of Corky’s sandals with rainbow-colored cork. I was so excited to wear them that I stepped outside… onto wet ground. I don’t know if I permanently ruined them, but I do know my mom was not happy. And that’s stuck...

Managing Parental Guilt: You’re Doing Better Than You Think

By Rice Psychology Group

on February 27, 2025 at 3:01 PM /

Parenting is a journey full of highs and lows, joy and frustration, and triumphs and challenges. However, one of the most common and often invisible burdens parents carry is parental guilt. Whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned pro, it's easy to fall into the trap of feeling like you're never doing enough. The demands are endless, and the pressure to balance work, family, self-care, and everything in between can be overwhelming. But here's the truth: you're doing better than you think. In this blog, our team of licensed psychologists in Tampa explore parental guilt, why some carry it and...

Navigating Your Child’s Psychological Evaluation: Part 2

By Rice Psychology Group

on February 25, 2025 at 4:09 PM /

Testing and Assessment

By. Amanda M. Cosgriff, Ph.D., BCBA & Licensed School Psychologist When you search for the term “recommendation” online, it is defined as “a suggestion or proposal as to the best course of action.” Psychological assessment reports typically include a long list of recommendations—some may feel too vague, while others might seem overwhelming or excessively detailed. This can make it difficult for the adults in the child’s life to determine the best path forward. What Should I Do with the Recommendations? Ultimately, the decision to implement recommendations rests with the parent and educational team (e.g., teacher, school administrators, tutors). While these recommendations are not...

Supporting Your Child While Taking Care of Yourself: A Parent’s Guide to Self-Care

By Rice Psychology Group

on February 13, 2025 at 4:35 PM /

Parenting is an extraordinary journey filled with love, joy, and challenges. As a parent, it's easy to get caught up in the daily hustle of caring for your child—managing schoolwork, extracurricular activities, doctor's appointments, and household responsibilities. Yet, in the whirlwind of these duties, it's essential to remember that taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your child. The happier and healthier you are both mentally and physically, the better equipped you'll be to support your child in their own growth and development. In this blog, our team of licensed psychologists in Tampa explore practical tips...

What Does It Mean To Raise A Resilient Child?

By Rice Psychology Group

on January 14, 2025 at 6:11 PM /

Skills Development

Every parent wants their child to thrive in life. They want them to be independent, strong, and able to bounce back from whatever life may throw their way. But what does that really mean? If you’re raising your child to be resilient, what traits are you instilling in them? What are you actually teaching them? Resilience is one of those words that is often misconstrued, and when taught to a child in the wrong way, it can inadvertently hurt their mental health rather than help it. At Rice Psychology Group, we understand that learning to cope and push through life’s toughest...

Clearing the Hurdles: Living with ADHD

By Rice Psychology Group

on October 30, 2024 at 3:19 PM /

ADHD
Blog

By Dr. Wendy Rice If you’ve ever wondered whether ADHD is a real condition, let me assure you it is. The forgetfulness and absentmindedness can be just as frustrating for those who have it as they are for the people around us. A bit about me: I’m a competitive adult amateur equestrian. Due to my family situation, I couldn't compete much as a child. I rode whenever possible but never envisioned owning my horse or qualifying for a national year-end final. I’ve been working incredibly hard on both my physical and mental fitness. I've pushed through fears, anxieties, and physical limitations, all to...

Let’s Discuss Hurricane Fatigue

By Rice Psychology Group

on October 18, 2024 at 2:08 PM /

Floridians are exhausted. In less than two weeks,, hurricanes Helene and Milton made their way through Florida, leaving widespread damage behind. We know that some have lost absolutely everything and have to start their lives over. Others have their homes but are missing parts of their roofs or are dealing with the aftermath of flooding. And too many homes and businesses are still without power. And while the recovery and repairs of property are already underway, many are trying to figure out how to repair their mental health as well. The feelings of anxiety, stress and exhaustion that can come before, during...