Latest News - Center for Child Counseling

Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick Celebrates Renée Layman as an Angels in Adoption® Honoree

Cara Hansen Latest News, News Releases October 4, 2024Angels in Adoption, Center for Child Counseling, Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick, Florida Association for Infant Mental Health, mental health advocacy, Renee Layman, The Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute, U.S. Representative Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick

NEWS RELEASE
October 4, 2024
For immediate release
Media contact: Cara Scarola Hansen
Center for Child Counseling Public Relations Counsel
cara@yourmissionmarketing.com

Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) Celebrates Renée Layman as an Angels in Adoption® Honoree

U.S. Representative Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) celebrated Renée Layman, CEO of Center for Child Counseling (CFCC), as a 2024 Angels in Adoption® Honoree for her outstanding advocacy for adoption and foster care issues. The Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute (CCAI), which coordinates the Angels in Adoption® Program, honored Layman on September 11, 2024, at their annual Angels in Adoption® Celebration in Washington, D.C.

Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick honored Layman for her passionate advocacy for child and family health, equity, and the provision of high-quality prevention, early intervention, and trauma-informed services. Layman is a leader in implementing and promoting comprehensive mental health solutions and eliminating barriers to services. Her commitment to equity ensures that all children and families have access to the resources they need to thrive in a safe and nurturing environment.

“Renée’s advocacy and leadership in the mental health community have significantly contributed to the well-being of countless children and families. She has set an unparalleled standard for mental health services, ensuring that our youngest residents and their parents receive the long-term support and care they need to find stability and a sense of belonging”, said Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick.

Layman is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with almost thirty years of experience in mental health. As President and Chief Executive Officer for CFCC since 2013, she has spearheaded significant initiatives in child and family mental health–specifically related to trauma-informed care and the prevention, awareness, and healing of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs).

Layman’s leadership extends well beyond her work at CFCC. She is the current vice president and incoming president of the Florida Association for Infant Mental Health. She is past co-chair of the Leadership Palm Beach County Engage program (2014-2016), volunteering with the organization for more than six years, including playing a leadership role with their Health and Human Services Committee. She is a past president of the Nonprofit Chamber of Palm Beach County and continues to serve on their board to support local nonprofits. She chairs PBC’s Birth to 22 Trauma Sensitive Community Leaders Education Committee. She is also on the Board of Directors of the Florida Network for Youth and Family Services, a not-for-profit statewide organization representing more than 30 agencies that serve homeless, runaway, and troubled youth ages six and older and their families. This work is in line with her vision to support children and families across Florida.

The Angels in Adoption® Program is CCAI’s signature public awareness event and provides an annual opportunity for all members of the U.S. Congress to learn of and recognize the great work of their constituents who have enriched the lives of vulnerable children and families in the United States and abroad. This year, 57 Angels from 34 states were honored through the 26th Annual Angels in Adoption® Program. Read the full list of honorees here.

About Center for Child Counseling:

Center for Child Counseling has been building the foundation for playful, healthful, and hopeful living for children and families in Palm Beach County since 1999. Its services focus on preventing and healing the effects of adverse experiences and toxic stress on children, promoting resiliency and healthy family, school, and community relationships. As of October 2022, KidSafe Foundation now operates under Center for Child Counseling as the two entities are now stronger together in their education and prevention of child sexual abuse and childhood trauma.

www.centerforchildcounseling.org Twitter: @ChildCounselPBC Facebook: @CenterforChildCounseling Instagram: @childcounselpbc

About Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute

CCAI is a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization dedicated to raising awareness about children and youth in the United States and around the world in need of permanent, safe, and nurturing families. Founded in 2001 by the Co-Chairs of the Adoption Caucus – the Congressional Coalition on Adoption, which is the largest bipartisan, bicameral caucus in the U.S. Congress – CCAI works with the caucus to eliminate policy barriers that hinder children from realizing their basic right of a family and more effectively raise congressional and public awareness on permanency as it related to adoption, foster care, and child welfare. For more information, visit www.ccainstitute.org.

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Hannah DeMarco Promoted as Director of Marketing

Cara Hansen Latest News, News Releases September 9, 2024Center for Child Counseling, Director of Communications, Director of Marketing, Director of Marketing and Communications, Hannah DeMarco

September 9, 2024
For immediate release
Media contact: Cara Scarola Hansen
Center for Child Counseling Public Relations Counsel
cara@yourmissionmarketing.com

Hannah DeMarco Promoted as Director of Marketing and Communications of Center for Child Counseling

Center for Child Counseling (CFCC) announces Hannah DeMarco’s promotion to director of marketing and communications to continue to grow and lead the nonprofit agency’s outreach and communications efforts in advancing their mission to provide HOPE and trauma-informed care and support to children and families.

DeMarco received her undergraduate degree from Palm Beach Atlantic University and is currently pursuing a Master of Public Health in Social and Behavioral Sciences from University of Florida. Prior to this promotion, DeMarco served as CFCC’s marketing and communications coordinator since 2021 where she has already significantly impacted the agency through her deep passion for the agency’s mission and work. Previously, she was the program manager of community engagement for Best Buddies International.

“Hannah’s commitment to promoting mental health and well-being for children and families is evident in her approach, which I believe will only deepen as she completes her master’s program. Her strategic vision and creative leadership will further amplify CFCC’s voice and impact on our community and beyond,” stated Renée Layman, chief executive officer of Center for Child Counseling.

DeMarco commented, “ With prevention at the forefront of our public health approach and communications efforts, I’m looking forward to continuing to expand our reach within the community and beyond, providing accessible education on ACEs to prevent trauma before it happens and spreading hope for the future of children and families.”

About Center for Child Counseling
Center for Child Counseling has been building the foundation for playful, healthful, and hopeful living for children and families in Palm Beach County since 1999. Its services focus on preventing and healing the effects of adverse experiences and toxic stress on children, promoting resiliency and healthy family, school, and community relationships. www.centerforchildcounseling.org Twitter: @ChildCounselPBC Facebook: @CenterforChildCounseling Instagram: @childcounselpbc

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Connecting Pediatric Professionals to School-Based Mental Health Services

Cara Hansen Latest News, News Releases September 4, 2024Center for Child Counseling, Dominika Nola, Lead the Fight, Mary Claire Mucenic, mental health, National Croquet Center, Palm Beach Pediatric Society, pediatric integration, Renee Layman, School District of Palm Beach County, Seth Bernstein, Shannon Fox-Levine, United Way of Palm Beach County

September 4, 2024
For immediate release
Media contact: Cara Scarola Hansen
Center for Child Counseling Public Relations Counsel
cara@yourmissionmarketing.com

Lead the Fight Event Connects Pediatric Professionals to School-Based Mental Health Services
Center for Child Counseling with Palm Beach Pediatric Society lead the fight in children’s mental health by connecting pediatricians to the supports offered in Palm Beach County schools.

The Center for Child Counseling (CFCC) continued its Lead the Fight series to move forward its efforts addressing adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and childhood trauma with the healthcare providers who are on the frontlines of seeing children and families. In partnership with the Palm Beach Pediatric Society, CFCC hosted part two of a three-part series, The Trauma-Informed Pediatric Practice: The Superheroes Have Arrived, on August 28, 2024, at the National Croquet Center in West Palm Beach.

Led by Dr. Shannon Fox-Levine, president of the Palm Beach Pediatric Society and medical director of Center for Child Counseling, this part of the series focused on how Palm Beach County Schools are helping students with mental health and behavioral concerns–and how pediatricians can tap into available supports to help their patients. The goal of the event was to help pediatricians connect their patients to school-based mental health services–from prevention to crisis support.

Featured guest speakers included Dr. Seth Bernstein, executive vice president at United Way of Palm Beach County, and Dr. Mary Claire Mucenic, director of behavior and mental health for the School District of Palm Beach County.

Overarching themes of the evening included the super power in being an advocate for children’s mental health and the necessity of not waiting for a child to fall apart before helping.

Dr. Bernstein provided the history of mental health supports in schools over the last few decades and the research that supports early intervention and reaching children before diagnosis.

“All children should get the supports that they need and not have to rely on a diagnosis to bill medicaid or insurance,” Bernstein stated.

Bernstein also shared his personal story of undergoing his parents’ divorce and his introduction to school mental health as a recipient of services. When in high school, the school social worker, Mr. C, invited him to join a “divorce group.” This group helped Bernstein gain the support of his peers, learn coping skills, and build resiliency. He then took a peer support class and by senior year was leading a class for the younger classmen and giving back.

“He [Mr. C] really set me on this path of who I am today…it really made me into an advocate to really eliminate barriers to access school mental health services for youth and their families…I’m totally committed to supporting the mental health of our children and the support of our families and hope that you will be superheroes also in this fight,“ advocated Bernstein.

Dr. Mucenic re-stressed the importance of students and families being able to access mental health supports in schools and gave a detailed overview of the services that are provided in the 179 schools that make up the Palm Beach County School District

Aa part of the school district’s strategic plan, they are measuring and following objectives to support mental health and well being, including: enhance a sense of belonging, safety, and acceptance for all students; and trauma-informed care and practices.

The schools recognize the importance of destigmatizing mental health services and share the message throughout their campuses that, “It’s OK to be OK. It’s OK to not be OK. It’s OK to ask for help.”

Mucenic emphasized “We have people on every school campus to support mental health. It’s really important.”

Each school’s mental health team includes: school counselor(s), ESOL school coordinator, school psychologist(s), school behavioral health professional, co-located mental health professional (at 115 of the schools), and SBT/CST leader. There are also supports provided at the district level, such as the CAPE Team, Mobile Response Team, and community-based agencies with whom the district partners.

Center for Child Counseling CEO Renée Layman gave a brief overview of the agency’s public health framework and their data-to-action approach of prevention, early intervention, and treatment. The Center realizes that children don’t necessarily need treatment only, the caregivers need ways to help their own kids.

“We have focused largely on building the capacity of people who work and live with kids to promote their well-being and resilience,” said Layman.

Dominika Nolan, director of education and prevention services for CFCC gave an overview of all of the services offered to children, families, schools, and communities in order to build the capacity and promote positive mental health for all.

In the closing remarks for the evening, Dr. Fox-Levine encouraged all attendees to think about, “How can you take action now and step out of this room tonight and into your day tomorrow and be a superhero even more than what you have been in the past with the information and energy from tonight about the exciting things that are happening with our schools and being able to partner with schools?”

In 2015, Center for Child Counseling launched Fighting ACEs to build awareness and action to mitigate the impact of ACEs and build well-being through Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs). In conjunction with Leadership Palm Beach County Class of 2017, the Center developed ‘Lead the Fight’ in 2016 to bring awareness to system leaders around fighting childhood adversity with advocacy and action. Since that time, the agency has educated tens of thousands of parents, professionals, and systems leaders.

Partnership sponsors who are leading the fight in making these important and necessary conversations possible include: BeWellPBC, Children’s Services Council of Palm Beach County, Florida Association for Infant Mental Health, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, Hanley Foundation, Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Coalition of Palm Beach County, Mead Johnson Nutrition, Palm Beach Pediatrics, Palm Beach Pediatric Society, and Searcy, Denney, Scarola, Barnhart & Shipley.

CFCC’s Fighting ACEs initiative to build trauma-informed communities is made possible with the generous support of Quantum Foundation, Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties, and private donors.

CFCC’s pediatric integration program is made possible thanks to the support of Quantum Foundation, The Frederick DeLuca Foundation, and Palm Beach County Community Services Department.

Part 3 of the Lead the Fight 2024 series, Positivity Will Give HOPE for Our Future, will take place on December 4. The event focus will be on understanding the effect of Positive Childhood Experiences on countering the long-term possible effect of Adverse Childhood Experiences.

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FAU Dean Justin Perry, Ph.D., Joins Center for Child Counseling’s Board of Directors

Cara Hansen Latest News, News Releases August 28, 2024Board of Directors, Center for Child Counseling, FAU, Florida Atlantic University, Justin Perry, Wilkes Honors College

August 28, 2024
For immediate release
Media contact: Cara Scarola Hansen
Center for Child Counseling Public Relations Counsel
cara@yourmissionmarketing.com

Dr. Justin Perry Joins Center for Child Counseling’s Board of Directors

The Center for Child Counseling (CFCC) Board of Directors recently voted in Justin Perry, Ph.D., as its newest member to use his experience and expertise as a researcher and clinician to advance and support the mission of the non-profit agency.

Dr. Perry is dean of the Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College at Florida Atlantic University. Prior to joining FAU, his work experience includes: dean of the School of Education, Ewing Marion Kauffman/Missouri Endowed Chair, and professor of Counseling and Educational Psychology at the University of Missouri – Kansas City; chair, associate professor, and assistant professor in the Department of Counseling, Administration, Supervision, and Adult Learning at Cleveland State University; director of the Center for Urban Education at CSU.

Dr. Perry has a Ph.D. in counseling psychology and a master’s degree in mental health counseling, both from Boston College. He spent nearly 10 years serving on the board of directors at Esperanza, Inc., a non-profit organization in Cleveland dedicated to the educational needs of Hispanic youth. He has more than 15 years of clinical experience serving children and families in the mental health delivery system, including: hospital, residential, community agency, preK-12, and private practice settings.

Renée Layman, chief executive officer of CFCC, stated, “I am incredibly grateful to Dr. Perry’s involvement with the Center over the last several years as an academic institutional partner. I am now thrilled to have him on our board to further strengthen our partnership with FAU and continue to move our agency forward to better serve the mental health needs of all children and families in Palm Beach County.”

Dr. Perry has been instrumental in working with CFCC’s clinical staff on building a robust internship and workforce entry pipeline for Wilkes Honors College undergraduate students.

“Based on my own professional experience in providing mental health services to children and families, I was naturally drawn to the mission of CFCC. I quickly became inspired by the remarkable organization it has built over the past several decades, and the forward-thinking approach it has developed and put into practice,” stated Dr. Perry with respect to why he has chosen to serve on the board.

The other members of CFCC’s Board of Directors include: Eugenia Millender, Ph.D., chair; Eddie Stephens, vice chair; Jeffrey Petrone, treasurer and secretary; Bill Lynch, past chair; Jennifer Hume Rodriguez, director; Patsy Mintmire, director; Melissa Haley, director; Jessica Cecere, director; and Renée Layman, president and chief executive officer.

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Seven Local Families Receive $7,000 Each Through the Mary Alice Fortin Foundation ‘Christmas in July’ Initiative

Cara Hansen Latest News, News Releases August 13, 2024Center for Child Counseling, Christmas in July, Mary Alice Fortin Foundation, Renee Layman

NEWS RELEASE

August 13, 2024
For immediate release
Media contact: Cara Scarola Hansen
Center for Child Counseling Public Relations Counsel
cara@yourmissionmarketing.com

Seven Local Families Receive $7,000 Each Through the Mary Alice Fortin Foundation ‘Christmas in July’ Initiative

Summer gift provides monetary relief to Center for Child Counseling families experiencing unique and significant challenges.

Through a special summer Christmas in July initiative, The Mary Alice Fortin Foundation chose seven families through the Center for Child Counseling to receive $7,000 each in an effort to provide financial assistance to families who have faced significant challenges and would greatly benefit from support. The seven families gathered at the U.B. Kinsey Educational and Community Center in West Palm Beach on August 6 to receive the much-needed and much-appreciated checks.

The Mary Alice Fortin Foundation, based in Palm Beach, started the Christmas in July program in 2011 to alleviate the lack of funding for non-profits during the summer. Each year the organization accepts applications from selected, local non-profits to learn of their most deserving families in need of monetary relief.

This year’s recipients are resilient families receiving therapeutic services through the Center for Child Counseling and working to build better lives for their children. The families include: a 33-year old single mother of two who is on dialysis three times a week and legally blind; a 25-year-old single mother of five children who is currently escaping an abusive relationship with the children’s father and residing in a shelter; grandparents caring for their grandson because of the abuse he experienced while under the care of his mother; a 17-year-old single mother who will be faced with eviction from her home when she turns 18 in the coming months; a single mother of two who has endured profound hardships and emotional turmoil and living in a small, old studio apartment that is not safe; a 20-year-old single mother of two who has a long history of homelessness due to no fault of her own; a 14-year-old daughter who is living with her mother who had a traumatic life-altering injury that has caused extremely limited mobility and now their basic needs are not always met.

When Center for Child Counseling CEO Renée Layman announced that assistance would be provided to each of the seven families, there was a resounding sense of disbelief, gratitude, and tears of joy.

The families expressed this “life changing” support would be used for things such as: first, last, and security deposits to obtain stable housing; food; medical care; childcare; diapers; back-to-school supplies.

“We are most grateful to the Mary Alice Fortin Foundation for their year-round leadership in our community of serving and helping those most in need. Thank you for continuing to be a partner of ours and bringing essential financial assistance to families who are struggling and especially need a hand up in the summer months while parents may have increased difficulty with childcare and are preparing to send their children back to school,” stated Layman.

PHOTO ID:
(Credit – Tracey Benson Photography)
Center for Child Counseling staff and board members with the families who received financial assistance from The Mary Alice Fortin Foundation Christmas in July initiative at the UB Kinsey Educational and Community Center on August 6, 2024.

About Center for Child Counseling
Since 1999, Center for Child Counseling has been building the foundation for playful, healthful, and hopeful living for children and families in Palm Beach County. Its services focus on preventing and healing the effects of adverse experiences and toxic stress on children, promoting resiliency and healthy family, school, and community relationships. For more information visit, centerforchildcounseling.org.

Twitter: @ChildCounselPBC Facebook: @CenterforChildCounseling Instagram: @childcounselpbc

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Center Partners with FSU and Receives First Federal Grant to Support Children & Families in PBC

Cara Hansen Latest News, News Releases August 7, 2024Center for Child Counseling, Center of Population Sciences for Health Equity, Florida State University, SAMHSA, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

NEWS RELEASE
August 7, 2024
For immediate release
Media contact: Cara Scarola Hansen
Center for Child Counseling Public Relations Counsel
cara@yourmissionmarketing.com

Center for Child Counseling Partners with FSU and Receives First Federal Grant to Support Children & Families in PBC
Building Resilience and Accessibility for Vulnerable Populations Ensuring Equity

Local nonprofit Center for Child Counseling (CFCC) in partnership with Florida State University secured its first-ever federal grant through SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration). The $576,416 award will be used to address the unmet mental/behavioral and social services needs of underserved and underrepresented children, adolescents, and families who have experienced trauma.

The funded project, Building Resilience and Accessibility for Vulnerable Populations Ensuring Equity (BRAVE), will build community capacity to provide trauma-informed care in child-serving systems through training and consultation for system providers, professionals, and caregivers. BRAVE focuses on under-served and under-resourced communities in Palm Beach County–Riviera Beach, Lake Worth, West Palm Beach, and Pahokee–where there are significant numbers of children and families (including immigrants, refugees, and asylees) facing adversity and trauma and critical gaps in resources, including trauma-informed care and treatment.

“This is a significant milestone and will enable us to expand our public health approach to preventing and healing the effects of adverse experiences and toxic stress on children and families in our community, while building positive childhood experiences,” said Renée Layman, CEO of Center of Child Counseling.

The funding will support children and families who may face persistent challenges and disparities related to poverty or economic stress, high crime rate, housing instability, physical and/or emotional stress, lack of preventative care to address the impact of multi-generational and ongoing complex trauma, and lack of access to effective trauma treatment.

The project will deliver trauma treatment services for 350 children and adolescents, care coordination services for 350 families, caregiver support groups and workshops for 700 parents and caregivers, and trauma-informed training for 7,466 professionals and paraprofessionals throughout the five-year lifetime of the project.

Project BRAVE includes a partnership with Florida State University for program evaluation and improvement and development of infrastructure to meet the needs of the community.

“This federal grant and the partnership between FSU and the Center of Population Sciences for Health Equity are crucial for advancing our understanding of mental health disparities and developing effective interventions. By combining our resources and expertise, we can foster opportunities that will drive significant improvements in mental health outcomes in Palm Beach County,” stated Dr. Eugenia Millender, co-founder and co-director for the FSU Center for Population Sciences for Health Equity and associate professor at the FSU College of Nursing.

Throughout this project, CFCC will build on collaboration with existing community and systems-level partners, including Empower Healthcare primary care medical clinic in Pahokee, Urban Youth Impact afterschool literacy and leadership program in Riviera Beach, For the Children youth afterschool programming in Lake Worth. On a national level, CFCC will collaborate with Child First’s Center for Prevention and Early Trauma Treatment, National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN) Category II Center to develop, advance, or adapt interventions to improve engagement and outcomes for traumatized youth, including culturally and linguistically appropriate services in the project communities.

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Heather Bennett Appointed as Director of Advancement of Center for Child Counseling

Cara Hansen Latest News, News Releases July 3, 2024July 3, 2024Center for Child Counseling, Director of Advancement, Heather Bennett

July 3, 2024
For immediate release
Media contact: Cara Scarola Hansen
Center for Child Counseling Public Relations Counsel
cara@yourmissionmarketing.com

Heather Bennett Appointed as Director of Advancement of Center for Child Counseling

Center for Child Counseling (CFCC) announces Heather Bennett as director of advancement to play a crucial role in raising funds for the Palm Beach County-based nonprofit, supporting its mission through developing long-term organizational sustainability.

“We are thrilled to promote Heather to our leadership team to lead our donor stewardship and cultivation efforts. Her work supports our work in helping children and families with the prevention and healing of adverse childhood experiences and trauma,” stated Renée Layman, chief executive officer of Center for Child Counseling.

Heather Bennett is a dedicated nonprofit advancement professional with more than ten years of experience in business development and client services. Since earning her bachelor’s degree at Nicholls State University in Louisiana, Heather has thrived in collaborative team environments in which she could serve the needs of clientele in tandem with the needs of the organization.

“Through personal experience as a child and young adult, I understand the obstacles to accessing proper mental health services, as well as the valuable, positive impact counseling may have on one’s life. I am eager to combine this passion for mental health advocacy and my skills in development operations and donor stewardship,” said Bennett.

In her new role, Bennett leads the organization’s donor stewardship and cultivation efforts, managing all fundraising activities, including: overseeing donor stewardship, legacy giving programs, coordinating the Circle of Giving, developing the CFCC Events Committee, and coordinating special donor appeals. This role is pivotal in ensuring the financial sustainability and growth of CFCC through strategic engagement with donors and supporters.

Bennett added, “I look forward to identifying and implementing sustainable growth strategies while connecting community members and donors to CFCC’s significant mission.”

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10 Ways to Support Your Child’s Mental Health This Summer

renee@centerforchildcounseling.org Blog, Latest News June 5, 2024Center for Child Counseling, mental health, resilience

Summer is a time for fun, relaxation, and adventure! However, it can also be a period of transition and uncertainty for children. Supporting your child's mental health during this season is crucial for their overall well-being.

Here are ten ways you can help:

1. Encourage Open Communication
Create a safe space for your child to express their feelings and thoughts. Regularly check in with them and listen without judgment. This helps build trust and shows that you value their emotions. For younger children, these feelings are often expressed through their play.

This video includes helpful tips on how to engage in child-centered play with your child.

2. Maintain a Routine
While summer often means a break from the usual schedule, keeping a consistent routine provides a sense of stability. As much as possible, set regular times for meals, activities, and bedtime to help your child feel safe and secure. This is particularly important for very young children, especially before the age of 5. Children thrive on structure and consistency - and it also helps parents by creating a predictable environment that helps children grow emotionally, cognitively, and socially.

3. Promote Physical Activity and PLAY!
Encourage your child to stay active through sports, dance, or even simple outdoor play. Physical activity releases endorphins, which can improve mood, and reduce anxiety. Here are 11 ways to encourage your child to be physically active.

Play is essential because it contributes to the cognitive, physical, social, and emotional development and well-being of your child. Play also offers a great opportunity for you, as a parent or caregiver, to positively engage and interact with your child. Check out our Ways to Play page for fun ideas. We love this resource from the Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University, Brain-Building Through Play: Activities for Infants, Toddlers, and Children. The handout series provides suggestions games and play-based activities based on your child’s age.

4. Limit Screen Time
While it's tempting to rely on screens for entertainment, excessive screen time can negatively impact mental health. Set boundaries and encourage other activities like reading, games, arts and crafts, or outdoor exploration. Have a Nature Scavenger Hunt by making a list of items found in nature, such as leaves, rocks, or flowers. Or conduct simple science experiments such as baking soda and vinegar volcanoes or making a rainbow in a jar. These are fun and educational activities!

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends minimizing or eliminating media exposure, other than video chatting, for children under the age of 18 months. Learn more from the AAP about how media can affect your child.

5. Foster Social Connections
Arrange playdates, group activities, or a trip to the park to help your child stay connected with friends and peers. Social interactions are vital for emotional health and can help reduce feelings of loneliness. Here are 3 ways to help your child build social connection skills.

6. Provide Healthy Nutrition
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can positively affect mood and energy levels. Involve your child in meal planning and preparation to make healthy eating fun. We love these ideas:

Plant a garden with your child and watch it grow! Not only is play in the dirt fun, but your child is more likely to try foods they have grown. Tomatoes, carrots, cucumbers, and peppers are a good place to start.
Make cooking a family activity! Talk about your family's food traditions and teach them a favorite recipe.
Take a field trip to a farmer's market or local farm to learn more about other types of vegetables and fruits that may not be available at your grocery store.

The AAP has a wealth of information about nutrition for parents and caregivers.

7. Encourage Mindfulness and Relaxation
Teach your child simple mindfulness exercises or relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or yoga. These practices can help them manage stress and stay calm. Our Loving-Kindness Mindfulness video for kids is a great start!

8. Support Their Interests
Whether it's a hobby, sport, or artistic pursuit, encouraging your child to engage in activities they love can boost their self-esteem and provide a sense of accomplishment.

9. Be a Role Model
Children often mirror the behavior of their parents. Demonstrate healthy coping strategies, positive thinking, and emotional regulation. Showing that you take care of your own mental health sets a powerful example and sets the foundation for lifelong health!

10. Seek Professional Help if Needed
If you notice persistent changes in your child's behavior or mood, don't hesitate to seek professional support.

Supporting your child's mental health this summer doesn't have to be complicated. By incorporating simple strategies into your daily routine, you can help ensure that your child enjoys a happy and healthy summer season. We have put together a rich array of reliable resources for you.

Remember, you are not alone in this journey. If you need additional resources or support, don't hesitate to reach out to us or a mental health professional. If you have questions or need additional support, please contact us.

Dr. Fox-Levine Receives Physician Hero in Medicine Award

Cara Hansen Latest News, News Releases June 3, 2024American Academy of Pediatrics, Center for Child Counseling, Florida Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, Hero in Medicine, Heroes in Medicine, Palm Beach Medical Society, Palm Beach Pediatrics, Renee Layman, Shannon Fox-Levine

June 3, 2024
For immediate release
Media contact: Cara Scarola Hansen
Center for Child Counseling Public Relations Counsel
cara@yourmissionmarketing.com

Dr. Fox-Levine Receives Physician Hero in Medicine Award

Palm Beach Medical Society Services recently honored Shannon Fox-Levine, M.D., as the Physician Hero in Medicine at its 21st Annual Heroes in Medicine Awards Luncheon on May 23, 2024, at Benvenuto’s in Boynton Beach. The awards honor people throughout Palm Beach County who use their skills and resources to provide outstanding service.

Dr. Fox-Levine serves as president of Palm Beach Pediatrics, president of Palm Beach Pediatric Society, and medical director of Center for Child Counseling. She was awarded Physician Hero for embodying the characteristics of skill, compassion, and dedication to the ideals and beliefs of the profession and for contributing in significant ways to the betterment of health care.

“This is an amazing honor to be awarded as the Physician Hero in this county of pretty amazing physicians, so I really appreciate the recognition for the work I do in this county…when you love what you do, you never work a day in your life, and that’s me,” expressed Dr. Fox-Levine in her acceptance speech.

As a strong advocate for Florida’s private pediatric healthcare providers, Dr. Fox-Levine’s tireless efforts have improved the financial landscape for pediatric practices and enhanced the quality of care for children across the state. Her decade-long service as the Florida Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics Pediatric Council Chair and her advocacy for appropriate pay for services have earned Dr. Fox-Levine the prestigious American Academy of Pediatrics Chapter Special Achievement Award.

Dr. Fox-Levine’s appointment as the Medical Director at Center for Child Counseling (CFCC) signifies a pivotal milestone in her career. Her expertise and dedication come at a critical time when our nation’s youth are facing a mental health crisis. In this role, she plays a crucial part in addressing the shortage of professionals capable of supporting the overall well-being of children. Through her leadership, CFCC is poised to expand its impact in providing essential mental health support to vulnerable youth in Palm Beach County.

Dr. Fox-Levine has been involved with CFCC for more than 10 years, also serving as a board member and medical consultant. CFCC’s Pediatric Integration Program was launched three years ago with Palm Beach Pediatrics to expand mental health services available to children served within the primary care setting–bridging the gap between primary care and community mental health. In her role as Medical Director, Dr. Fox-Levine works in tandem with CFCC leadership to expand support to other practices in Palm Beach County.

Dr. Fox-Levine’s involvement in various healthcare committees underscores her commitment to advancing pediatric care on multiple fronts. Locally, she has served as President of the Palm Beach Pediatric Society since 2014, working to build a collaborative network of pediatric care providers and sub-specialists in Palm Beach County. Nationally, as a committee member on the Payer Advocacy Advisory Committee for the American Academy of Pediatrics, she contributes to assessing the public and private payer sector–advocating for benefits coverage for primary care pediatricians. Her participation in the Joe DiMaggio Neighborhood Partners further demonstrates her dedication to providing care to community members across South Florida. Dr. Fox-Levine’s multifaceted involvement in healthcare committees highlights her role as a strong leader in advocating for the comprehensive care of children and young adults.

According to Renée Layman, CEO of Center for Child Counseling and the one who nominated Dr. Fox-Levine for the honor, “Shannon is a fierce, passionate advocate for children. Her tireless efforts are ensuring that all children in our community have the opportunity to grow up safe and healthy. For this, she is most deserving of being named a Hero in Medicine.”

Click here to view the news release.

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Jane Robinson Receives Viola Brody Award from Florida Association for Play Therapy.

Cara Hansen Latest News, News Releases May 22, 2024May 22, 2024Center for Child Counseling, Dialogue of Touch: Developmental Play Therapy, Florida Association for Play Therapy, Jane Robinson, Play Therapy with Very Young Children, Renee Layman, Viola Brody Award

NEWS RELEASE
May 22, 2024
For immediate release
Media contact: Cara Scarola Hansen
Center for Child Counseling Public Relations Counsel
cara@yourmissionmarketing.com

Founder of Local Nonprofit Honored for Her Work with Children in Play Therapy
Jane Robinson receives Viola Brody Award from Florida Association for Play Therapy.

Jane Robinson has been championing children in Palm Beach County for more than 25 years, advocating for their mental health through play therapy. Robinson was recently honored with the Viola Brody Award for being an outstanding Florida Play Therapist.

Since 2005, the Florida Association for Play Therapy (FAPT) has honored an outstanding Florida Play Therapist at the FAPT Annual Conference with the Viola Brody Award– established in recognition and in memory of Viola Brody, Ph.D. who is considered a pioneer in play therapy for developing a theoretical approach called Developmental Play Therapy.

“Jane is an outstanding play therapist and, like Dr. Brody, has been a pioneer for her work in bringing play therapy to children and families in Palm Beach County in the 1990s. She has trained thousands of members of the community in play therapy. Jane is a source of knowledge and inspiration, and bar none, she is most deserving of this award,” stated Renée Layman, CEO and president of Center for Child Counseling.

Robinson founded Palm Beach Gardens-based nonprofit Center for Child Counseling in 1999 as All ‘Bout Children. Although Robinson retired in May 2013, she continues to work as a consultant to Layman and volunteers her time training through the Center’s Institute for Clinical Training and providing support to the clinical supervisors. Robinson founded the organization with the vision of providing free mental health services to the youngest and most vulnerable children in the county.

As a licensed mental health counselor, registered play therapist supervisor, and certified infant mental health specialist through The Center for Prevention and Early Intervention Policy at Florida State University, Robinson served as a strong advocate for young children in our community. In her leadership role in the area of early childhood mental health, she collaborated with the local community colleges and universities in training students, teachers, and graduate-level mental health counselor/social worker interns in play therapy for the young child (ages birth-5). She has presented to teachers, directors, and supervisors in child development centers and professional, local, and national conferences on mental health for the young child. Robinson created a manual, “Managing Feelings and Behavior in the Classroom and at Home,” which has been updated and is used by the Center as a guide and reference for teachers and parents of young children. She co-authored a chapter titled “Play Therapy Techniques with Very Young At-Risk Children in Child Care Settings” published in the book “Play Therapy with Very Young Children,” edited by Dr. Charles Shaefer.

“I am humbled to be a recipient of the Viola Brody Award. Early in my career as a play therapist, I found a book, “Dialogue of Touch: Developmental Play Therapy,” by Viola Brody. I read it, took workshops with Viola, and sat with her for a snack at the National Association for Play Therapy Conferences around 1998-2000. Viola’s training gave me insight on how to work with the very youngest (infant to 3 years) and their caregivers in child care centers. Viola gave me the tools needed to model the importance of developmentally-appropriate touch, support, and attachment for the well-being of the very young child and those older who did not receive the care at a young age. I will be forever grateful,” said Robinson.

Criteria to receive the Viola Brody Award include: being a member of FAPT/APT for at least five years; making an outstanding contribution to the field of Play Therapy in the State of Florida, nationally, or internationally; and not being a current FAPT Board Member or a member of the FAPT Award Committee.

Other recognition that Robinson has received includes: Volunteer of the Year for Play Therapy and Teacher Training by the YMCA of Boca Raton, FL, in 2000; the Mary Bondarin Award for Service to Children and Families by the Association of Education for the Young Child of the Palm Beaches in 2004; a “notable” (person who cares about their community) by the Palm Beach Post in 2005. She was also nominated for the 2011 “Purpose Prize,” a national award for people over 60 who combine their passion and experience for social good.

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