Psychology Blog, Behavior Blog, Counseling Blog | Tampa Psychologist

Navigating End-of-Year Stress: Protecting Your Mental Health at Work During the Holidays

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As the year winds down, many of us find ourselves juggling an uncomfortable mix of deadlines, holiday expectations, family dynamics, and the pressure to “finish strong.” While the season is often described as joyful, it can also be one of the most mentally draining times of the year, especially in the workplace. If you’ve been feeling stretched thin, emotionally exhausted, or just “over it,” you’re far from alone. Rice Psychology Group understands that end-of-year burnout is real, and recognizing it early is one of the best ways to protect your mental well-being. Why This Time of Year Feels So Heavy 1. The Push...

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Understanding Dyslexia: What the New Definition Means and How Targeted Testing Can Help

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If you’ve been online recently, you might have seen that the International Dyslexia Association (IDA) has released a new definition of dyslexia. This update is sparking conversation among educators, parents, and clinicians alike — and for good reason. A clearer, more up-to-date understanding of dyslexia helps us better identify, support, and empower children and adults who learn differently.   While you can find the full definition and plenty of resources by searching online or through the IDA’s website, here’s the heart of what it means: Dyslexia is a specific learning disability that affects accurate and fluent word recognition, spelling, and decoding.It’s not about...

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Catching Kids Being Good: Why Focusing on What’s Right Builds Stronger, Happier Children

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By Dr. Wendy Rice, Psy.D. Twelve-year-old Emma bursts through the front door, backpack sliding off one shoulder. “Mom! I got my grades!” she calls out, waving a crumpled printout before it lands on the kitchen counter. Her grades read: A in Language Arts, A in History, A- in Science, B+ in Spanish, and… C in Math. Emma’s proud grin falters as she glances up at her mom, waiting to see which way this moment will go. Version one: Mom scans the page. Her brow furrows. “Emma, what happened in math? You were doing fine last quarter. Were you not paying attention? Did you forget to study for tests...

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ADHD, Interrupting, and Relationships

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Consider the following story as it relates to this week’s topic: I was doing a podcast a few weeks ago with 2 co-hosts. I asked if we could put our cameras on so we could see each other while we talked. They said they'd never done their interviews with cameras on but were game to try.  Afterward, both hosts commented about how much less interrupting they did because they could see each other's faces. What they didn't know was that having their cameras on was a form of an accommodation for me. I have a tendency to interrupt on the...

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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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