When A Spouse Dies
This article is designed to aid readers who have lost a spouse to understand better what they are experiencing and how to handle the issues that may arise.
By: Susan Adams M.Ed. Continue reading
Published Articles by Susan Adams M.Ed. Pyschotherapist Atlanta
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Advice to Parents Whose Children May Be Using Drugs
The objective of this article is to acquaint parents with some possible resources for drug education and some tips as to how to react when youngsters are using drugs.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Advice to Parents Whose Children May Be Using Drugs
Summary: Communication with youngsters needs to remain open and friendly even when drug use is suspected.
Who Are the Children Most at Risk for Drug Use and What Are the Signs?
The objective of this article is to provide some clues for early detection of children and adolescents at risk for drug or alcohol abuse and how the early signs might be recognized.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Who Are the Children Most at Risk for Drug Use and What Are the Signs?
Summary: Adolescents is a problematic time at best for almost all teens.
Use and Abuse of Narcotics
The objective of this article is to describe the nature of narcotics, how they are used, and the dangers of using them.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
The Use and Abuse of Narcotics
Summary: Medically speaking, narcotics are the drugs derived from opium such as codeine and morphine and heroine. There are synthetics which are abused as well.
Drugs That Suppress the Central Nervous System-Sedatives
The objective of this article is to point out what drugs are considered sedative, their effects and dangers.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Drugs That Suppress the Central Nervous System-Sedatives
Summary: Some sedatives are used legitimately for sleep and for anxiety reduction. However, many people use “downers” when they take “uppers” in order to come down from the highs generated by the stimulant drugs.
The Hallucinogens
The objective of this article is to identify the effects and dangers of the drugs that are hallucinogens.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
The Hallucinogens
Angel dust, (PCP) acid, and other mind altering drugs affect perception, thinking and emotion. They can cause delusions and distortions and are very dangerous. Tis article provides a detailed description of their effects and dangers.
The Amphetamines
The objective of this article is to point out the effects and dangers of amphetamines.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
The Amphetamines
Summary: Amphetamines are the stimulants that excite the central nervous system. In high doses, euphoria is present and, as the dose wears off, depression can follow. Amphetamines have been found in diet pills and taken as such for many adults who experienced many negative consequences.
Cocaine Use
The objective of this article is to explain what cocaine is, its use, and its effects.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Cocaine Use
Summary: Cocaine is a stimulant drug used medically as a local anesthetic. It can cause irritation of the tissues with which it comes in contact, and has serious emotional and physical side effects.
Relationship of Drugs and Traffic Safety
The objective of this article is to examine the specific effects of drugs on driving capabilities in an effort to provide information as a deterrent to drinking, drugging, and driving.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
The Relationship of Drugs and Traffic Safety
Summary: It is commonly accepted that alcohol, drugs, and driving don’t mix. However, that thought often gets lost when people use and drive.
Risks of Early Marijuana Use
The objective of this article is to point out the explicit dangers that accompany early use of marijuana as opposed to later use into adulthood.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Risks of Early Marijuana Use
Summary: The younger the person who tries marijuana experimentally, the more susceptible to addiction they are.
Is Marijuana Really Harmful?
The objective of this article is to explain the effects of marijuana in the body and to answer the question as to its ability to be detrimental to the user.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Is Marijuana Really Harmful?
Summary: Marijuana is the most widely used illicit drug in the United States. Marijuana causes many harmful effects to users both medically, cognitively, psychiatrically, and socially.
The Relationship Between Violence and Addiction
The objective of this article is to acquaint readers with the relationship between violence and addiction.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
The Relationship Between Violence and Addiction
Summary: It would seem to be self-evident that the consuming of substances lowers boundaries between people and therefore increases violence. With the consumption of alcohol, people are more likely to lose reason and then control and to act out negative emotion.
Recovery Predictors in the Treatment of Substance Abuse
The objective of this article is to acquaint readers with the factors that make for clean and sober goal achievement in substance abuse recovery.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Recovery Predictors in the Treatment of Substance Abuse
Summary: It is possible for people with alcohol and drug problems to maintain a clean and sober life style without experiencing a relapse-or, to stay clean and sober following a relapse.
The Precipitants of Relapse in Substance Abuse Recovery
The objective of this article is to help readers identify the possible danger areas which may trigger relapses when recovering from substance abuse. It is hoped that by being able to better predict problem situations, such situations can be better managed.
By: Susan Adams, M.
Do You Think You Might Have A Problem With Alcohol Or Drugs?
The objective of this article is to help readers who may question whether chemical substances are a problem for them or not arrive at some answers.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Licensed Professional Counselor
Summary: Often people fail to realize if they have a problem with chemical abuse or addiction.
Teach My Children How to Drink?
The objective of this article is to describe a methods for teaching responsible drinking to older adolescence.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Teach My Children How to Drink?!
Summary: Young people who do not abstain from alcohol can be taught to drink responsibly. This relates to their attitudes about alcohol and the way they use it. This article describes how to teach safe drinking.
Turning Responsible Children into Troubled Teens
The objective of this article is to help parents individualize their expectations for youngsters in an effort to decrease unnecessary pressure which can lead to acting out in adolescence if not before.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
A Step Toward Preventing Problem Teens/Rearing Children Realistically
Summary: It is impossible to raise children without external pressures. However, we can mitigate these pressures with appropriate expectations, praise, and guidelines.
A Step Toward Preventing Problem Teens
The objective of this article is to help parents individualize their expectations for youngsters in an effort to decrease unnecessary pressure which can lead to acting out in adolescence if not before.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
A Step Toward Preventing Problem Teens/Rearing Children Realistically
Summary: It is impossible to raise children without external pressures. However, we can mitigate these pressures with appropriate expectations, praise, and guidelines.
Telling the Children When a Pet Dies
The objective of this article is to provide some suggestions for dealing with children in the event of the death of a pet.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Telling the Children When a Pet Dies
Summary: People tend to do more harm than good in their attempts to protect children from many things, including the death of beloved pets.
Effects of Working Moms
The objective of this article is to present a discussion of how moms can work and raise healthy children at the same time.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Effects of Working Moms
Summary: I am asked all the time by people with new babies or young children about how having both parents work will affect the child. These are my views.
Dealing With Teens Around Money/Problem Prevention Tactics
The objective of this article is to provide suggestions to parents for dealing with their teens around the subject of money to prevent those teens from becoming problematic later.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Dealing With Teens Around Money/Problem Prevention Tactics
Summary: Money is one of the three big battlegrounds of marriage and is also a prime source of friction between parents and children.
Listening Skills/ Avoiding Troubled Teens
The objective of this article is to help parents develop bonds with their teenagers way before the fact to help prevent troubled adolescents who lack parental connections.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Listening Skills/ Avoiding Troubled Teens
Summary: Listening is the foundation stone of genuine communication. We must become good listeners and confidants of our children if we are to see them safely through adolescence.
Communication Guide for Teens
The objective of this article is to empower teens with techniques for dealing with parents and other adults in an effort to help both generations in understanding each other. Hopefully this will help to prevent problem teens.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Communication Guide for Teens
Summary: If you consider yourself on the way to growing up then you need to keep an open mind.
Being a Role Model for Teens
The objective of this article is to provide some guidelines for parents who want raise their children in ways that avoid trouble in adolescence.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Being a Role Model for Teens
Summary: research yields that family group activities are prevalent in families experiencing good parent-teen communication. The opposite is true when there is poor communication.
Effects of Group Care/Preventing Trouble in the Teens
The purpose of this article is to provide some input into the idea of group care for young children and how it may benefit or hurt these children at a later maturational date.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Effects of Group Care/Preventing Trouble in the Teens
Summary: I am asked all the time in my practice about the idea of group care versus home care with very young children.
Taking a Job or Staying at Home | When There is a Choice – Trouble Later?
The objective of this article is to make some suggestions toward the question about work for mothers if there is a choice.
By: Susan Adams, M.
Harmful Affects of Too Much Pressure on Children
The objective of this article is to identify the risks of too much pressure on children.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Harmful Affects of Too Much Pressure on Children
Summary: Children placed under too much pressure are apt to feel like failures. Placing the bar too high robs children of their need–as with all of us–to feel successful.
Preparing Children For Sexual Intimacy As Adults
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Identifying Pressures on Early Adolescents
The objective of this article is to help those connected to early adolescents as well as their parents, to understand the stresses for early adolescents in an attempt to ward off trouble.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Identifying Pressures on Early Adolescents
Summary: Adolescence begins earlier and earlier. Puberty and rapid social change make life rocky for our early adolescents.
Laying the Groundwork To Avoid Troubled Teens
To provide parents with some guidelines for keeping the connection to their children once they become adolescence.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Laying the Groundwork To Avoid Troubled Teens
Summary: The road to adolescence is paved early. It is important to instill the idea early with children that parents are coaches and guides and can act as help agents rather than punishers as children travel the road to adulthood.
Identifying and Treating Teenage Substance Abuse
The objective of this article is to identify signs of teenage substance abuse, to differentiate from adult substance abuse, and to make some treatment suggestions.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Identifying and Treating Teenage Substance Abuse
Summary: Teenagers in the United States today experience the realities of adulthood at earlier and earlier ages, often with painful results.
Conversations with Preteens About Sex
The objective of this article is to acquaint readers with the kinds of issues that interest preteens and ways to discuss them.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Conversations with Preteens About Sex
Summary: Many confusions exist for preteens about sex and it is important to straighten them out. In addition, issues of social and emotional adjustment are present.
Do Single Parents Have Needs of Their Own?
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Limit Setting With Children
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Causes of Learning Disabilities
The objective of this article is to help parents, especially, with learning disabled children to understand how this may have happened to their child.
By: Susan Adams, M.
Learning Disabilities/Teacher and Parental Attitudes
The objective of this article is to highlight how powerful attitudes toward children with learning disabilities can be.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Learning Disabilities/Teacher and Parental Attitudes
Summary: Attitudes of teachers and parents can make a huge difference in the success or failure of children with learning disabilities. The nature of these problems has the potential to destroy families. This article presents a discussion of these issues.
Treatment of Learning Disabilities
The objective of this article is to help those involved with learning disabled children know what to expect in remediation.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Treatment of Learning Disabilities
Summary: The key to any problem is early detection. That having been said, this article describes the process whereby children with learning disabilities receive help.
If children are to work well in school their perceptual abilities must function properly.
Understanding Sexuality From an Adolescent View
The objective of this article is to help parents find ways to talk to their children about sex in an effort to promote healthy and responsible attitudes toward sexuality.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Understanding Sexuality From an Adolescent View/Preventing Problem Teens
Summary: Understandably, sex is a difficult subject for anyone to discuss and many parents just don’t know how to do it. This article provides some ideas.
Too Young for Academic Learning?
The objective of this article is to provide parents with information on the hazards of pushing children too early in academic learning.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Too Young for Academic Learning?
Summary: Many parents believe that they can develop gifted children by exposing them to academic learning at an early age. Much to the contrary, this can actually turn children off of learning and create learning problems.
Pressures on Young Adolescents-Junior High
The objective of this article is to point out the special pressures on young adolescents in junior high in an effort to help parents deal with the issues to prevent trouble from developing.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Pressures on Young Adolescents-Junior High
Summary: When the child moves from elementary school to a junior-high school, new pressures may be felt.
When Fathers Desert/Preventing Troubled Teens
The objective of this article is to provide some suggestions for mothers who are raising the children in the face of the desertion of their father.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
When Fathers Desert/Preventing Troubled Teens
Summary: When a father disengages from the family following a divorce the children can feel abandoned.
Desertion by a Mother/ Avoiding Troubled Teens
The objective of this article is to offer some suggestions for fathers who may be dealing with children whose mother has left them.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Desertion by a Mother/ Avoiding Troubled Teens
Summary: The desertion by a mother may be harder for children to understand because mother’s are more often seen as caretakers.
Dealing With Learning Disabled Children
The objective of this article is to point out some guidelines for effectively dealing with children with learning disabilities.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Dealing With Learning Disabled Children
Summary: Children with learning disabilities may be very bright. The idea is to locate the the place of the disability or disabilities and work around these.
Identifying Learning Disabilities
When Children Lose a Mother
The objective of this article is to highlight the particular difficulties with losing a mother.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
When Children Lose a Mother
Summary: The loss of either parent is traumatic for children. However, since mothers are more often the primary caretakers of children, such a loss can be particularly devastating. Children are more apt to lose their primary source of nurturing.
Stresses in Early Boy-Girl Relationships
The objective of this article is to point out the stresses on early adolescents realted to the opposite sex in an effort to provide a cushioning for them from their caregivers.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Stresses in Early Boy-Girl Relationships
Summary: During early adolescence, boys and girls are assailed by many inner pressures.
Stresses for Children in the World in Which They Live
The objective of this article is to help family and friends be aware of the stresses that children experience so that they can help to mitigate them where possible.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Stresses for Children in the World in Which They Live
Summary: Children are affected by their society and by the smaller world of their family and school groups.
The Effects of Teen Suicide in Families
The objective of this article is to help families in this difficult position to understand what they may be experiencing.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
The Effects of Teen Suicide in Families
Summary: Suicide puts an entirely different face onto the grieving process. Often the survivors become the victims. They may remain both guilt-ridden, embarrassed, and angry with no release.
Suicidal Patterns of Troubled Teens
The objective of this article is to point out some warning signs for teens who may try suicide with the hope of preventing some deaths.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Suicidal Patterns of Troubled Teens
Summary: Many adolescents die who really did not mean to complete the act. Seasons play a role some of the time. Family situations of loss and feelings of hopelessness are major factors.
Troubled Adolescents: General Profile of Suicidal Teens
The objective of this article is to make some suggestions as to the general profile of adolescent boys and girls who may attempt or succeed at committing suicide.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Troubled Adolescents: General Profile of Suicidal Teens
Summary: Adolescents experience great turbulence on their way to adulthood. One of the hallmarks of their adolescents is the outlook that whatever they are experiencing will last forever.
When Children Are Molested
To acquaint readers with the dynamics of child molestation and to provide some guidelines for handling it.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
When Children Are Molested
Summary: Many more children than it is commonly thought are molested each year in the United States, and elsewhere.
How Harmful is Chemical Use in Young People–Really?
The objective of this article is to present a discussion of the realities of chemical usage in young people and to suggest some ideas that may migrate it.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
How Harmful is Chemical Use in Young People–Really?
Summary: There is evidence that among school children experimentation with drugs and alcohol is beginning at earlier and earlier ages.
How Your Feelings May Affect Your Children
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
How Your Feelings May Affect Your Children
It is very important to understand that there is a large relationship between how parents are managing their feelings and how well or poorly children do.
One place where this shows up particularly is in single parent families.
Building Self Esteem in Children
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Building Self-Esteem in Children
You want your children to feel good about themselves and it is certainly possible to raise children who do.
However, to do so means a new way of approaching children than the way that was used when most of us grew up.
Most of us grew up with punishment and a good dose of criticism. Our parents meant well.
Tips for Grand-Parents in Step Children
It is often the case that grandparents are afraid for their children to remarry. They want their happiness but fear the loss of their grandchildren through remarriage.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Grandparents in Stepfamilies
As the stepparent, there are some things that you can do that will calm things down.
- Arrange times that grandparents and grandchildren can do things together as they did before the remarriage.
Tips for Communication for Ex-Spouses
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Tips for Communicating With an Ex-Spouse
- Keep the topic of conversation on the business items or the children.
- Don’t respond to unreasonable demands
- Use ‘I” statements.
- If you want to talk to your ex-spouse, find a neutral party to exchange information.
- If using verbal communication is impossible, try a written form.
- Do not send messages through the children.
What About Remarriage?
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
What About Remarriage?
Remarriage may seem unlikely shortly after you divorce. Actually, 75% of women and 80% of men do remarry–usually within 5 years.
Of these, 80 % divorce again. Why?
I certainly don’t want to discourage remarriage. In fact, remarriage and the stepfamily, is the gift that the stepfamily gives the kids.
Living without the Child as a Parent
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Sexuality in Stepfamilies
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Sexuality in Stepfamilies
Sexuality in stepfamilies is different than in biological families because people of different sexes who are not related are living together. It is also different because the family begins with children when the sexual climate is higher. By the time children are born into biological families, the sexual climate has cooled down, generally, because partners have been living together longer.
It is Hard to Be Liked as a Step-Parent
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
It’s Hard to Be Liked As a Step Parent
Don’t take it personally if your stepchildren don’t like you. This is, in fact, usually the case. In the beginning kids tend to be pleased or tolerate their parent’s interest in a new adult.
3 Major Issues of Stepfamilies
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Discipline in Stepfamilies
Discipline is a problem in most stepfamilies.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Discipline in Stepfamilies
Blending adults and children from different backgrounds often brings up problems with discipline due to the idea that people have different lifestyles and different philosophies of childrearing.
Children often resent direction from a stepparent, particularly if they have enjoyed greater freedom when their biological parent was single.
Tips for Step-Mothers
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Tips for Stepmothers
- Remember, this marriage is between you and your partner. Don’t try to change things after the wedding where the children are concerned.
- Go by the rules (or non-rules) that the children’s father has established and continue the rules that you have established for your children if you have them.
- The watchword here is “slowly”.
Tips for Step-Fathers
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Tips for Stepfathers
- Develop relationships before attempting discipline.
- Help your partner establish rules but don’t YOU be the enforcer too soon.
- Let your partner tell you when you can begin to enforce.
- Take the side of the stepchildren where you can.
- Negotiate chore issues.
- Discuss with your partner if you feel undermined.
Does Instant Love Occur in Stepfamilies?
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Does Instant Love Occur in Stepfamilies?
I often hear people in my office say that, “I have tried to love my stepchildren for my partner’s sake but they drive me crazy!
If this is true for you, it is perfectly normal. After all, your stepchildren are from a different family with different habits and rituals. They have a different history and some different values.
Living in a Stepfamily
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Arranging for First Meetings
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Parenting Teamwork
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Anger Management Post Divorce
The objective of this article is to provide some guidelines for dealing with anger in post divorce situations.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Anger Management Post Divorce
Summary: Usually the anger from the marriage continues into the divorce. In fact, when there are children, there is really no divorce and the issues continue into infinity.
The Question of Dating Post Divorce
The objective of this article is to provide some guidelines for parents about dating issues post divorce.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed
The Question of Dating Post Divorce
Summary: Parents ask me frequently how to decide about dating issues when children are part of the situation. This article speaks to those issues.
Tensions for Children of Divorce/Dealing with resulting Depression
The objective of this article is to acquaint parents with the special hazards of tension for children that accompany divorce and some solutions for dealing with it.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Tensions for Children of Divorce/Dealing with resulting Depression
Summary: Divorce causes much tension for children and fears of abandonment that parents, caught in the heat and misery of their own divorce, often miss.
Depression as a Factor in Post Divorce Adjustment for Adults
The objective of this article is to identify some of the issues that can create depression in post divorce adjustment and methods to ameliorate it.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Depression as a Factor in Post Divorce Adjustment for Adults
Summary: A major issue in post divorce adjustment relates to the support system.
Developing New Relationships
You may be deciding to develop friendships because you have moved or your life has shifted. You may be newly single and feeling awkward after a lifetime that has followed a predictable pattern.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Developing New Relationships
Whatever the case, you can be successful at building new relationships if you remember that people don’t fall “in love” or “in like” with other people.
How To Tell Children About A Divorce
It is important not to discuss divorce plans with children until the ultimate decision is reached. This means the break-up of their family and is usually a very difficult time.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
How To Tell Children About A Divorce
The news should be broken with BOTH parents present. The news should occur a few weeks before the separation if possible so there is some advance warning.
Some Possible Reactions to Divorce in Children
Children react in many different ways to the news of divorce. Some go on to look perfectly normal and don’t experience any overt signs of difficulty until dating age.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Some Possible Reactions to Divorce in Children
The best children learn from divorce tends to be that no one loves anyone enough to stay.
Feelings Related to Divorce
You may be facing divorce despite your desire to stay married. You may be facing divorce because you see it as the only alternative. No matter, the case, divorce in many ways is like a death.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Feelings Related To Divorce
It is the death of your hopes and dreams for the marriage.
Children of Divorce
You’ve tried to keep the marriage together but it isn’t working. The decision to divorce has been made even if it isn’t your descision.
Children of Divorce
So, how do you handle the children? Children’s reactions to divorce vary largely by how the parents handle the situation. By far, children fare best when they continue to be parented by both parents in spite of the break between the spouses.
Special Concerns for Dating Couples Approaching Marriage
The objective of this article is to outline the issues that create the most anxiety in couples considering marriage.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Special Concerns for Dating Couples Approaching Marriage
Summary: What are the subjects on which communication is especially difficult for couples approaching marriage? There are several that can present major problems.
Counseling Thoughts for Premarital Couples/Danger Signs in Dating
The objective of this article is to help dating couples who are thinking of marriage to identify some common danger signs in the relationship and to provide some guidance for treatment.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Counseling Thoughts for Premarital Couples/Danger Signs in Dating
Summary: Premarital counseling is a good emotional checkup and a wise investment as it increases the odds for a successful marriage.
Why Some People Fail to Make Emotional Contact in Dating
The objective of this article is to help people who fail to make emotional contact with others understand why that might be.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Why Some People Fail to Make Emotional Contact in Dating
Summary: Real communication is important but can be difficult to master. This is why, without it, some people circle the dating world forever without ever getting connected to anyone.
Skills of Understanding and Being Understood in Relationships
The objective of this article is to help dating couples understand how to make connections with each other in order to make long lasting relationships.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Skills of Understanding and Being Understood in Relationships
Summary: The first issue in building communication that works in your relationship is understanding its importance to having intimacy.
Achieving Good Sexual Communication
The objective of this article is to help couples achieve a satisfying sexual relationship.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed
Achieving Good Sexual Communication
Summary: A mutually satisfying sexual relationship can be a lifetime of joy for a couple. However, it doesn’t happen magically–any more than verbal communication does. This article presents a discussion of how to develop good sexual communication, beginning in the courtship.
Building Trust for dating Couples Planning Marriage
The objective of this article is to provide an exercise for couples – dating or married – for assessing trust that exists and building trust.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed
Building Trust for dating Couples Planning Marriage
(or those who are married)
Summary: We all carry different levels of trust based on our prior experiences.
The Safety of Expression-An Exercise for Dating Couples
Headed Toward Marriage or for the Married Who want to Enhance Their Relationship
The objective of this article is to provide an activity for couples–both those thinking of marriage, and those who already are married who want to enhance their relationship to do so in the arena of improving the emotional climate around the safety of expression.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Communication in Marriage
The objective of this article is to identify the communication skills needed in marriage.
By: Susan Adams, M. Ed.
Communication in Marriage
Summary: In any relationship of any importance, let alone a partnership like marriage, the negotiation of the realtionship is critical. In order to have successful negotiations, partners need to be able to explain their experience of being who they are and understand the experience of their partner.
Role of Expectations in Marriage
The objective of this article is to describe how expectations can affect marital success.
By: Susan Adams M.Ed.
The Role of Expectations in Marriage
Summary: Expectations of marriage have changed radically in the last fifty years. Today it is considered a partnership, though many times people are not conditioned for this. Many partners have misinformation about what marriage is and is not.
Effect of Money on Marriage
The objective of this article is to present a discussion of how money affects relationships.
By: Susan Adams M.Ed.
The Effect of Money on Marriage
Summary: Money is seen as power by many people–he (or she) who has it has the power and the partner without is is out of power. Too much money or too little produces a negative effect on many relationships.
Identifying Early Precursors to Sexual Intimacy Difficulties
The objective of this article is to help readers identify early reticence in children concerning sex which, if not corrected, may lead to difficulties with sexual intimacy as adults.
By: Susan Adams M.Ed.
Toward Achieving Sexual Harmony in Marriage
The objective of this article is to present information relating to sexual difficulties in marriage and how they may develop.
By: Susan Adams M.Ed.
Toward Achieving Sexual Harmony in Marriage
Summary: Sometimes sexual problems between couples are just that, they are sexual problems related to some kind of performance issue as in premature ejaculation and painful intercourse.
Achieving Relationship Closeness
The objective of this article is to provide a discussion on the importance of intimacy as well as to pinpoint some barriers to achieving emotional closeness with others.
By: Susan Adams M.Ed.
Achieving Relationship Closeness
Summary: Intimacy has been proven to be important in achieving and maintaining emotional and physical health. There are some barriers and patterns that prevent intimacy.
When A Spouse Dies
This article is designed to aid readers who have lost a spouse to understand better what they are experiencing and how to handle the issues that may arise.
By: Susan Adams M.Ed.
An After Effect of Sexual or Physical Abuse
The objective of this article is to help those who have experienced some kind of physical or sexual abuse to use some concrete tools for speaking up for themselves.
By: Susan Adams M.Ed.
An After Effect of Sexual or Physical Abuse
Many people who have experienced some form of child sexual or physical abuse have learned that it is dangerous to speak up for what they want.
Dealing With Infidelity
To acquaint readers with the nature of infidelity and how to handle it.
By: Susan Adams M.Ed.
Dealing With Infidelity
Summary: Infidelity occurs in many but not all marriages. The marriage can be saved in many cases. This article identifies the kinds of infidelity which may occur and makes suggestions about how to handle the situation to best preserve the marriage.
The Practical Marital Quiz
Practical Marital Quiz
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There is the Right person out there for everyone.
(no-marriage is based on a skill set between two people. Arranged marriages work well when the partners practice the skills of good marriages.) -
He or She should know what I want without being told.
(No one that I know can read minds.
Accountability Couples Model
Art of Feeling Married
The objective of this article is to point out some of the pitfalls involved in the breakup of marriages.
By: Susan Adams M.Ed.
The Art of Feeling Married
Summary: Back several generations the most important value in marriage was staying together.
Feelings When a Pet is Lost
The objective of this article is to help people know what to expect over the loss of a beloved pet.
By: Susan Adams M.Ed.
Feelings When a Pet is Lost
Summary: Intense grief over the loss of a pet is completely normal.
Aging Without Estrogen/ Not for Women Only
The objective of this article is to describe the changes that come as women begin to lose estrogen-usually with age, as well as some suggestions for dealing with these changes.
By: Susan Adams M.Ed.
Aging Without Estrogen/ Not for Women Only
Summary: Estrogen has been said to be the “glue” that holds women together. As we age, our estrogen levels drop.
The Use Of Moderate Exercise
The objective of this article is to describe for readers the benefits of moderate exercise.
By: Susan Adams M.Ed.
The Use Of Moderate Exercise
Summary: The best way to look and feel better and to improve your health is with exercise. It takes just thirty minutes each day to improve yourself physically and mentally.
Should you decide to lose weight?
The objective of this article is to help readers determine if they need to lose weight and to make some suggestions as to what might work to achieve the goal.
By: Susan Adams M.Ed.
Life as a Chemical Experience
The objective of this article is to explain to readers how to keep their Serotonin at optimum levels for the purpose of enjoying their lives to the fullest.
By: Susan Adams M.Ed.
Life as a Chemical Experience
Summary: Exercise has long been recommended for keeping the body fit. Many people have not yet realized that exercise also benefits mental health.
Postpartum Depression
The objective of this article is to help women identify their risk factors for Postpartum depression before its onset, during pregnancy and to suggest some ways to offset it.
By: Susan Adams M.Ed.
Postpartum Depression
Summary: The most common time for postpartum Depression to set in is after the l last regular clinical office visit with the obstetrician which is the six-week exam.
Understanding Depression
The objective of this article is to explain the nature of depression and its treatment.
By: Susan Adams M.Ed.
Understanding Depression
Summary: Depression is a brain disorder that affects thought, mood, feelings, behavior and physical health. It is best treated with exercise, medication if needed, and psychotherapy. This article provides a description of the nature of depression and its treatment.
The true underlying cause of depression is technically unknown.
Depression, Chronic Pain, and the Family
The objective of this article is to explain the relationship between chronic pain and depression, the effect on the family, and to discuss some options for dealing with such pain.
By: Susan Adams M.Ed.
Depression, Chronic Pain, and the Family
Summary: Pain leads to depression and depression to pain when a chronic pain condition exists. The effects on the family are detrimental to the relationships involved.
Symptoms and Consequences of Stress
The objective of this article is to identify symptoms of stress and their consequences to our lives.
By: Susan Adams M.Ed.
Symptoms and Consequences of Stress
Summary: We are all under stress daily. Without it we wouldn’t be motivated toward anything. We need some stress but not an excess of it. This article explains the nature of stress, the symptoms that appear, and their effect on our bodies.
Lowering Cancer Risk With Proper Eating
The objective of this article is to acquaint readers with ways that they can eat in a healthy manner to possibly lower their overall cancer risk.
By: Susan Adams M.Ed.
Lowering Cancer Risk With Proper Eating
Summary: Many foods may help lower the risk of certain cancers. Cancers spring from a variety of sources. Some cancers are more amenable to certain foods that contain phytochemicals, most specifically, anti-oxidants.
Why Is ALCOHOLISM So Difficult To Treat?
The purpose of this article is to help readers understand why alcoholism is so difficult to treat and to offer some suggestions for aiding recovery.
By: Susan Adams M.Ed.
Why Is ALCOHOLISM So Difficult To Treat?
Alcoholism can be very difficult to treat because the pleasurable effects of alcohol precede the negative effects.
Frequently Asked Questions About Depression
Frequently Asked Questions About Depression
1.How would I know if I am depressed? –
People who are depressed frequently complain of constant fatigue, lack of energy, loss of appetite and weight gain and lost. They may have trouble with concentration and memory. They experience an overall lack of optimism, the belief that things can get better.
Dealing with Criticism
By: Susan Adams M.Ed.
Dealing With Criticism
Criticism is, unfortunately, a part of our society and a part of many relationships. Are you criticism deaf? That means that you have heard so much criticism that everything sounds like that to you.
Use of Anger; Does it Work?
By: Susan Adams M.Ed.
Use of Anger–Does It Work?
If you are accustomed to using anger in your personal relationships, you may want to stop and think about this.
Using Meditation To Help Body Healing
The objective of this article is to acquaint readers with the health benefits of meditation and to discuss some of the varying types of mediation available.
By: Susan Adams M.Ed.
Using Meditation To Help Body Healing
Meditation has been useful, according to some recent studies, in improving health by reducing stress. There are various forms of meditation including “mindfulness”, “relaxation response” and prayer meditation.
Guided Imagery and Stress Management
The objective of this article is to describe the way in which guided imagery works and to identify some of its uses.
By: Susan Adams M.Ed.
Guided Imagery and Stress Management
Summary: Guided Imagery is a technique used to help people create vivid images in their mind.
Genders Struggles – “Why the Gender Struggle?”
By: Susan Adams M.Ed.
Gender Struggles – “Why the Gender Struggles?”
Men and women are having a hard time getting together today for a variety of reasons.
As more women join the work force, more men lose their uniqueness as wage earners. Raised to be competitive and earn a living, men are now faced with women who do this as well or better than they.
How to Deal with Loneliness
By: Susan Adams M.Ed.
How To Deal With Loneliness
Did you know that when asked what they fear most, most people will tell you that it is loneliness. It is not unusual to feel this way because society stresses that we seek outside of ourselves for entertainment and pleasure and thee is little training for how to nourish and nurture ourselves.
Asking for Help & Setting Boundaries
By: Susan Adams M.Ed.
Asking for Help & Setting Boundaries
You may be one of those people who has a hard time asking others to do anything. You may also have a hard time saying “no” if asked by someone else to do something.
Universal Truths
By: Susan Adams M.Ed.
- The world is unfair but predictable. Success means being aware of how things appear to others.
- Even if you feel so unimportant you think you are invisible, others notice you.
- People who don’t know when they do wrong, can’t learn to do anything right.
- People who know when they do something wrong develop mastery.
The Art of Making Others Feel Good
By: Susan Adams M.Ed.
The Art of Making Other People Feel Good
Did you know that there are only two ways to build your own self-esteem? One is by being listened to with respect. The other is by doing things about which you feel good.
One of the best ways that I know to feel good about ourselves is by doing things to make others feel good.
Atlanta Family Therapists | Couples Counselor Atlanta | Marriage Counseling Atlanta
Specializing In Marriage And Family Counseling
Susan Adams Licensed Marriage And Family Therapist
I am Susan Adams, licensed Marriage and Family therapist and licensed Professional Counselor, in private practice for over 35 years. My best credential is that I have been married for 41 years and have raised one daughter, numerous cousins, and am currently owned by two wonderful Boston Terriers.
Please call me before you call anywhere else in the Atlanta area, so that we can talk about what you should expect from your therapist and from therapy (404) 698-3699.
I look forward to speaking to you.
Evening Appointments are Available!
Atlanta Family Therapists | Couples Counselor Atlanta | Marriage Counseling Atlanta
Welcome
I am delighted that you have found my website!
Did you know that only HEALTHY people have the courage to question their situations and problems and look for solutions?
That means that already we know that if you are reading this, you are healthy.
Being “healthy” means that you can learn new information and apply it to problem-solving.
My Approach
My approach provides clients with a clear understanding of the problem. Once the problem, in the marriage or in other kinds of relationships is identified,
I work with people through practical, behavioral, and value-based solutions that help to make their relationships work.
