PEP Talks - A Parent Education Program
Parenting is tough, but PEP Talks is here to make it a little easier. Join Arlington Community Schools as we seek expert advice to examine issues facing school-aged children today, from anxiety and depression, bullying and social media to everything between. Want us to explore certain topics? Email us at peptalks@acsk-12.org.
Our Hosts:
Erin Williams is a Social & Transition Specialist for elementary and middle schools in Arlington Community Schools (ACS), a district located outside Memphis, Tenn. With a background in social work, Erin is a licensed school social worker and master social worker. She has also previously served as a victim advocate and child forensic interviewer in Tennessee.
Ja'Neair Johnson is a Social & Transition Specialist for high-school aged students in ACS. She has served as a mental health professional for more than 20 years and holds a Masters of Social Work and is a licensed school social worker.
Tyler Hill is the Director of Communications & Planning for ACS. As a former award-winning journalist, Tyler’s passion was rooted in storytelling that spoke to the heart, and he has carried that same mentality to School PR. He serves as the PEP Talks producer and sound engineer, with occasional hosting duties.
PEP Talks - A Parent Education Program
Decoding Therapy with Misty Smith, a Licensed Professional Counselor
Let us know how we're doing, or send us an idea!
This week on PEP Talks, Erin and Ja’Neair meet with a licensed professional counselor to gain insights on trends within mental health. Misty Smith, NCC, LPC-MHSP, has been counseling families since 2007, using an integrated, holistic approach specific to the unique needs and goals of her clients.
Throughout the conversation, Misty discusses mental health trends, based on her clinical experience with families, adolescents and children. She gives insights on anxiety and depression and discusses tips and recommendations to assist families. Misty tells families the most important key factor in finding the right therapist is identifying one who connects with their child or teens.
Misty's Recommended Resources:
- Signs Your Child Should See a Therapist
- How to Find the Right Therapist
- The Power of Showing Up: How Parental Presence Shapes Who Our Kids Become & How Their Brains Get Wired (a book by Dr. Daniel J. Siegel & Dr. Tina Bryson)
Additional Resource Mentioned in the Show:
Want us to explore certain topics? Reach out to us at peptalks@acsk-12.org
