Fall 2013 Newsletter

From the director:  It's been a long time!  Life had gotten away from me and I have not done a newsletter in quite some time. Instead of monthly newsletters we will now do quarterly- which will be more manageable but I will also have more to say!  As for me personally I now have 3 children in college and a partial empty nest (one child at home). I had a health scare over the summer that turned out fine; worried for nothing . But I also know that as I age health problems will continue to occur so best to take care of myself better.   Exercising is pretty easy to do consistently for me and I have been meditating daily but eating well is a downfall for me especially when I am too busy.  Spending time outdoors in nature is very stress reducing for me and this time of year is perfect for walking outdoors.   This weekend I will be up north hopefully enjoying the fall colors.   As for the clinic we are fortunate to announce that Erin Perez LPC has joined us!  She comes to us with many years of experience seeing children and families and is practicing in our Cedarburg and West Bend locations.  Kettle Moraine Counseling is particularly blessed with excellent child therapists: Deb Graf, Jennifer Skinner, Christina Lachner, Angela Waldoch and now Erin Perez.  As a staff we strongly believe in meeting the needs of our communities and when the need is there our therapists will see children in their schools or in their homes.   We continue to accept all Badgercare HMOs and are or will be providers for the new healthcare exchanges that take effect on January 1.   Kettle Moraine Counseling is also on the major insurance panels and we will work out payment arrangements when needed.    Thank you for entrusting us with your care!         Til next time be gentle with yourself and others.           Devona Marshall

262.334.4340   www.kettlemorainecounseling.com

Erin Perez bio

Erin is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who has over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families who present with a wide range of clinical needs.  She believes that therapy goals and techniques are based on the individual’s and/or family’s needs, and meets them where they are at in their process of growth.

Erin has many years of experience working with children (and their families) who have Pervasive Developmental Disorders such as Autism, and Asperger’s Syndrome.  She is trained in Applied Behavioral Analysis, and has experience creating programs and implementation of behavioral programs in home and school.  Erin also has experience working with children who present a variety of behavioral and mental health challenges.  She enjoys facilitating groups on a variety of topics such as social skills, anger management, and parenting.

After earning her undergraduate degree from Cardinal Stritch University, she went on to earn her Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology, also from Cardinal Stritch University.  She integrates a variety of therapies, including Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), play therapy, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), Strength Based, Trauma Informed Care, and Solution-Focused therapies to achieve healing and growth for individuals and families.

Erin's specialties and interests include:
Children/adolescent behavioral & emotional issues
School issues
ADHD
Autism/Asperger’s Syndrome
PDD-NOS
Anxiety
Attachment
Adoption
Adverse Childhood Experiences
Divorce
Parenting
Families
Trauma
Self-esteem
Depression
Adjustment/life transitions

Erin works out of both the West Bend and Cedarburg offices.

Erin@kettlemorainecounseling.com


Research update: 
Brief group therapy can improve teen mental healthA British study found that two short group therapy sessions reduced the incidence of mental health issues, with benefits lasting several years.
October 5, 2013, Psych Central 

The Pill's link to depression still unclear
Young women using hormone-based contraceptives, including the Pill, were no more likely to be depressed than other women in a new U.S. study.
October 1, 2013, Reuters 

Losing is good for you
Awards can be powerful motivators, but nonstop recognition does not inspire children to succeed.
September 24, 2013, The New York Times 


Blog archive

So what to do if your heart has been broken? Know that you are in good company- it's a universal experience. Take care of yourself- eat healthy, sleep as much as you need to, reach out for support, exercise and get outdoors. Journal your feelings. Know that the pain will lessen with time. Treat yourself gently- now is not the time to criticize or blame yourself. 

Then when the pain has eased some, you can look at the relationship- what did you learn from it? How did it change you? In what ways were your needs met, or not met? What patterns of behavior might you want to change? And ask yourself what is next?