TOPIC: Bowen Family Systems Theory: Understanding Family Patterns and Improving Relationships Through Therapy

WRITTEN: July 24, 2026 by Audrey Cornell

WILL BE REVIEWED: July 2029

Family relationships can have a powerful impact on how we communicate, handle conflict, manage stress, and experience relationships throughout life. If you find yourself repeating unhealthy family patterns, feeling overwhelmed by family conflict, struggling with anxiety related to relationships, or carrying emotional experiences from childhood into adulthood, Bowen Family Systems Theory may help you better understand these challenges.

At JCACounseling in Alpharetta, Georgia, our therapists use evidence-based approaches...

TOPIC: Why Is My Child Acting Out? Understanding Behavior and What It Really Means

WRITTEN: July 3, 2026

WILL BE REVIEWED: July 2029

LEARN MORE ABOUT PLAY THERAPY AT JCAC

It can be confusing and overwhelming when a child suddenly begins acting out—having frequent meltdowns, showing anger, refusing to listen, struggling at school, or withdrawing from family and friends.

Many parents find themselves wondering: “What changed?” or “Why is my child behaving this way?”

While it’s easy to view these behaviors as defiance or “bad behavior,” children are often communicating something deeper that they do not yet have the words to express.

Behavior Is Communi...

TOPIC: Is My Child’s Anxiety Normal? Signs, Causes, and When to Seek Therapy

WRITTEN: June 26, 2026

WILL BE REVIEWED: June 2029

LEARN MORE ABOUT PLAY THERAPY AT JCAC

It’s normal for children to experience worries, fears, or nervousness from time to time. However, when anxiety begins to interfere with daily life, relationships, school, or emotional well-being, it may be a sign that additional support could be helpful.

Many parents wonder: “Is this just a phase, or something more?”

The truth is that childhood anxiety doesn’t always look obvious. It often shows up through behavior, physical complaints, or avoidance rather than clear verbal expression.

What Childhood An...

TOPIC: What Is Play Therapy? How It Helps Children Process Emotions and Create Lasting Change

WRITTEN: June 19, 2026

WILL BE REVIEWED: June 2029

LEARN MORE ABOUT PLAY THERAPY AT JCAC: https://www.alpharettajohnscreekcounseling.com/play-therapy-for-children

As parents, it can be difficult to know when a behavior is simply a developmental phase and when your child may need additional support.

You may notice more tantrums, frequent meltdowns, increased anxiety, difficulty separating from you, withdrawal from family or friends, trouble at school, or sudden changes in mood. Many parents wonder:

"Are they just acting out?"
"Will they grow out of this?"
"Should I be worried?"

The truth is that children do...

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...

TOPIC: How to Support Your Teen’s Self-Worth: Tools Every Parent Should Know

POST BY: Lillie Bamberg, LPC - CLICK HERE TO SEE HER BIO

WRITTEN: June 26, 2025

WILL BE REVIEWED: June 2028

Parenting a teenager today comes with a unique set of challenges—many of which weren’t as visible a generation ago. Thanks to the rise of social media, increasing academic pressure, and shifting cultural standards, more teens than ever are struggling with low self-esteem, lack of confidence, body image issues, and anxiety. These issues can deeply affect a teen's mental health, relationships, and ability to thrive in everyday life. As a parent, you can’t control the world they’re grow...

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...

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 ...

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

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...

Play Therapy: Speaking Your Child's Language

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...