Good Morning,

We're back! Yes, we managed two weeks in a row! This week’s topic is one we wish we didn't have to write about, but know it's important for you to have this information if you have to work with kids.

Talking with your child about self-harm can be uncomfortable and extremely overwhelming, yet an equally important conversation to have. And it is vital you let your child know that they can come to you, without judgement, about their feelings and if they are in need of help. So what are you to do if you find out that your child has self-harmed, even after your many discussions and the confidence that you had they would never engage in this behavior?

We wish there was one straight answer for this question, unfortunately it’s a bit more complicated and differs for every child and family. However, Rice Psychology Group’s newest therapist, Katie Havemann, M.A., Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, has written this week’s blog, “Empowering Parents: Supporting a Child Who is Self-Harming," where she shares some insightful tips for parents who might find themselves in a situation where their child has been involved in self-harm.

We also want to acknowledge that September is National Suicide Prevention Month and share with you an important opportunity for your family, if you are in need of help. Our friends at the Florida Borderline Personality Disorder Association are hosting a FREE webinar today, September 29th, to support those struggling with self-harming and suicidal behaviors. To learn more and RSVP, click here: fbpda.org/event/free-webinar-for-families-for-national-suicide-prevention-month

Meet Katie Havemann M.A., RMHCI, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Rice Psychology Group is excited to welcome one of our newest team members, Katie Havemann to our practice. Katie is a registered mental health counselor intern who received her master's degree from the University of South Florida and now specializes in working with children, adolescents, and young adults struggling with OCD, anxiety, specific phobias, social anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. Katie has a strong passion for helping children and families live their best, most positive lives. She is working under the direct supervision of Dr. Ashley Diehl, Ph. D. and closely with Dr. Wendy Rice, Psy.D. to grow her knowledge of the psychology world and the Tampa Bay community that we serve. We invite everyone to meet Katie and learn more about her experience here and if you would like to schedule an appointment with her, please feel free to contact us today!