THE MOST IMPORTANT GIFT YOU CAN GIVE YOUR FAMILY MAY BE AN INVESTMENT IN MENTAL HEALTH

What do small children, athletes, and first responders have in common? Individuals in these three groups may have more trouble than most when it comes to regulating emotions and articulating their feelings. Though many struggle with the challenges of “emotional regulation,” local Children and Family Therapist Dawn-Marie Luna finds herself working with those three demographics often; and has carved out a niche in helping Long Beach families reach their potential. “I believe all or almost all children, at some point between the ages of two-and-a-half and six, would benefit greatly from this style of therapy, especially in this day and age with such an influx of technology use,” says Dawn-Marie. “These are developmental years and many kids need support with positive peer relationships and processing emotions.” If a child is getting too old for, yet still throwing tantrums; has sensory issues like hitting or biting; or is often moody; that child can improve mental health by learning to better understand their own body, environment, and relationships. And that’s what Dawn-Marie can help with.