JCAC's Blog & Podcast

Jun
27

When Behavior Issues Are a Cry for Help: How Play Therapy Can Help



TOPIC: Behavior as Communication: The Power of Play Therapy


POST BY: Grace Lee, AMFT - CLICK HERE TO SEE HER BIO


WRITTEN: June 27, 2025


WILL BE REVIEWED: June 2028



As a therapist who uses child-centered play therapy, I frequently meet families who come into my office feeling overwhelmed, confused, and often defeated. Their child has been acting out, maybe through throwing tantrums that last for hours, refusing to follow rules, being aggressive toward siblings or classmates, or suddenly withdrawing. These behavior issues often leave parents asking, “What are we doing wrong?” or “Why is my child like this?”



First, let me reassure you: you are not alone, and you are not fai...


Jun
26

Adoption Competent Counseling for Children, Adolescents, and Adults


TOPIC: Adoption Is Lifelong: Counseling Support for Every Stage of the Journey


POST BY: Lyla Mills, LMSW - CLICK HERE TO SEE HER BIO


WRITTEN: June 26, 2025


WILL BE REVIEWED: June 2028



True adoption-competent counseling is hard to find. First, understanding the different types of adoption and the nuances that are attached to them is key. Examples of some of the different types are: International adoptions, domestic adoptions which is a category that can be broken down into several more categories —> foster to adopt, open/closed adoptions, transracial adoptions, and kinship adoptions.


Then, after beginning to understand the types, comes understanding just how much adoptees hold onto and h...


Jun
26

The Hidden Struggle of High Achievers with ADHD (And How Therapy Can Help)


TOPIC: The Overlooked Side of ADHD: High Achievement, Hidden Struggles, and Healing Through Therapy


POST BY: Mikayla Minehart, LPC, NCC, PMH-C - CLICK HERE TO SEE HER BIO


WRITTEN: June 26, 2025


WILL BE REVIEWED: June 2028



As a child therapist, I’ve had the privilege of working with many bright, driven, and talented young people. Some of them are top of their class, win awards, or excel in multiple areas—from academics to the arts to athletics. And yet, beneath their accomplishments lies a daily internal battle that most people don't see.


These are the high achievers with ADHD.



When Success Masks Struggle


ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is often stereotyped as affect...


May
12

How Play Therapy Can Help Your Child Overcome Behavioral Issues and Emotional Struggles



When a child faces behavioral issues, emotional struggles, or experiences anxiety and grief, it can be incredibly challenging for both the child and their family. The feelings of helplessness and confusion are natural, but the good news is that there is a highly effective form of therapy designed to help children navigate these difficult emotions and behaviors: Play Therapy.


In this post, we will explore how play therapy works, why it’s beneficial for children facing behavioral challenges, and how it can help children process their emotions, overcome anxiety, and cope with grief. Let’s dive into how play therapy can be a game-changer for your child's emotional well-being.



What Is ...


May
05

Postpartum Mental Health Counseling: Moms, You Deserve Support


Pregnancy Self-Care: How to Find the Support You Deserve | JCACounseling Podcast Short






Pregnancy can be overwhelming, and it's important to remember you're not alone. In this video, Janice Collins, CNM, and Erica Gregory, LMFT, discuss why asking for help and finding support is crucial for your well-being during pregnancy. Join them as they explore practical tips for self-care and how to lean on others to thrive during this journey.




The journey to motherhood is a remarkable experience, but it can also come with emotional and mental health challenges. After childbirth, many new moms experience feelings of anxiety, sadness, or stress. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you are not alone. Post...


Apr
28

Individual Counseling: Empowering Change and Growth Through Psychotherapy


AM I DEPRESSED? Or Just Sad? Depression Explained in Detail By A Licensed Counselor






Counselor, Erica Gregory, explains what depression is by outlining the 9 key symptoms of depression. Erica has worked with depressed children, teens, and adults, and uses her experience with real clients who have depression to explain the difference between feeling sad or down and clinical depression or medical depression.




Life’s challenges often leave us feeling stuck or overwhelmed, whether it’s dealing with emotional distress, life transitions, or mental health struggles. Individual counseling offers a safe, supportive space to help you process, heal, and find clarity. At Johns Creek and Alphare...


Apr
07

Play Therapy: Helping Children Heal and Thrive Through Therapeutic Play


Play Therapy: Speaking Your Child's Language






Counselor, Erica Gregory, talks about what play therapy is, how it works, and what to expect from a play therapist. She explains why play therapists use play as a form of therapy, the benefits for your child, and what the first 4 play therapy sessions look like.




Childhood is a crucial time for emotional and psychological development. However, children may struggle to express their thoughts and emotions, especially when dealing with anxiety, trauma, behavioral challenges, or grief. Play therapy is a powerful, evidence-based approach that allows children to communicate, heal, and grow in a way that feels natural to them—through play.


What is Pla...


Sep
23

Fostering Safe Communities: Addressing School Violence & Suicide - JCACounseling Podcast (LIVE)


Join us for a critical community conversation in response to recent tragedies in Sugar Hill and Winder, GA, including a suicide by cop and a school shooting. Suicide and school violence are preventable, and it's vital to know how to take action. In this live podcast, we'll discuss how to proactively address mental health crises and keep our community safe.






Topics include:



  1. Suicide prevention strategies

  2. Supporting teens and children through anxiety and fear

  3. Preventing school violence

  4. Recognizing warning signs and talking about suicide and violence with loved ones


Led by licensed mental health counselors Erica Gregory, LMFT, and Mandi Allison, LCMHC, and hosted by JCACounseling and Clear Path Counsel...


Aug
23

Helping Kids Heal: Post-Narcissistic Divorce Strategies | JCACounseling Podcast Short


In our latest episode of the JCAC podcast, Dr. Neil Monette dives deep into the complex journey of supporting your children after leaving a narcissistic spouse. This episode is a must-listen for anyone grappling with the challenges of transitioning to a healthier family dynamic.








The Impact on My Children- Leaving a Narcissistic Spouse | JCACounseling Podcast Short







The Decision to Leave: Making the choice to leave a narcissistic spouse is incredibly tough, especially when children are involved. Dr. Monette explores the emotional weight of this decision and highlights the profound long-term benefits of removing your children from a harmful environment.


Understanding the Impact on Children: Child...


Jun
30

Tech-Savvy Parenting: Ensuring Your Child's Online Safety | JCACounseling Podcast Short


As parents, navigating the digital landscape with our children can be daunting. In this insightful JCAC podcast short, counselors Erica Gregory, LMFT, and Ginny Vose, APC, offer invaluable guidance on setting boundaries and ensuring online safety for your children.




PARENTS: How To Keep Your Children Safe On Technology | JCACounseling Podcast Shorts







Boundaries, Safety, & Technology Oh My!


The battle all parents face is how to establish boundaries with technology and keep their children safe online. Gregory and Vose delve into practical strategies and essential tips for navigating this complex terrain.


Screen Time Education for Children


Understanding the impact of screen time is crucial. This se...