412-372-8000 | 724-850-7200
Monroeville, Greensburg, Monessen, and Wilkinsburg Pittsburgh
Diagnostic Criteria So, here is the DSM-V diagnostic criteria for ADHD. We are pretty familiar with these symptoms and recognize the impact they can have on a child’s life. Look them over for a quick review, and then we’ll discuss whether there is something missing from this list? The diagnostic criteria for ADHD: Inattention Six or more: __ failing to […]
» Read more
The Importance of the Executive Functions ADHD is described as a disorder of the prefrontal lobe of our cerebral cortex, which is the area of the brain that controls higher-order thinking. This ‘higher-order thinking’ is also known as a set of executive functions that help us to more effectively get through our day. The specific executive functions include: Impulse control, […]
» Read more
Written by Dr. John Carosso How do you discipline your child? Most parents rely on raising their voice, pestering, threatening, loss of privilege, and time-out, in that order (with the last two being used interchangeably). We have to ask ourselves, as parents, is this effective (especially the first two options)? If you’re taking the time to read this post, probably […]
» Read more
Written by Dr. John Carosso Go ahead, you can admit it; it’s kinda scary… On one hand you’re excited for the start of summer and to have far more access to your kids. If you’re a stay-at-home Mom, then you’re home all day with the little darlings and the sky is the limit in terms of the potential for fun-in-the-sun!! […]
» Read more
Written by Dr. John Carosso Of all the options… There are a host of ways to help manage ADHD and its primary symptoms of impulsivity, hyperactivity, and distractibility. People often seek counseling for their child, and that approach is worthwhile, given it’s vital to teach coping skills. Of course, medication is often pursued and that too is quite effective. However, […]
» Read more
Written by Dr. John Carosso So, is there a “cure”? There is not a “cure” for dyslexia. However, to better-understand the answer to this question, it’s best to review the nature of dyslexia and its underpinnings. In that respect, dyslexia is a neurological disorder in the sense that at least three particular areas of the brain, in charge of recognizing […]
» Read more
Written by Dr. John Carosso Reading issues are frustrating for both children and parents. If you your child is struggling, and you have concerns about dyslexia, this post covers signs of dyslexia, and effective treatment options. What is Dyslexia? I am often asked by parents to assess their child for dyslexia this process usually leads to a discussion about the […]
» Read more
Written by Dr. John Carosso What does it mean to “increase structure” Parents are often told about the importance of structure, that they need to increase structure, and that structure is vital to helping children who need “more structure.” However, what does that mean? Simply put… The simplest way to explain structure is that ‘more structure’ equates to more rules, […]
» Read more
Written by Dr. John Carosso To compare or not to compare? Parents often quickly correct themselves after making comparisons between their kids, saying “I know we’re not supposed to do that…” It’s generally taken for granted that comparing our children is wrong. Is it really wrong? In reality, we compare all the time. In fact, comparing helps us to understand […]
» Read more
Written by Dr. John Carosso What I’m expected to do… As a psychologist, I’m expected to talk about traditional and clinically-relevant approaches to help kids, and parents, work through difficulties. This of course would include helping people to think in more reasonable ways (cognitive therapy), behave in ways that are productive and healthy (behavioral approaches), be emphatic (Rogerian techniques), stay […]
» Read more