Gowestchestertherapy

07/30/2026

DBT in Real Life | Episode 2: Weathering the Storm

This week reminded us of something we often forget.

We can’t control the weather.

The storms came whether we wanted them to or not. Plans changed. Commutes were delayed. Outdoor events were canceled. For many of us, our mood changed right along with the forecast.

Life works the same way.

We don’t get to choose every challenge, disappointment, or unexpected change that comes our way. We do get to choose how we respond.

In DBT, this is called Radical Acceptance.

Radical Acceptance doesn’t mean we like what’s happening. It doesn’t mean we approve of it or stop caring.

It means acknowledging reality as it is so we can respond effectively instead of spending our energy fighting what we cannot change.

Acceptance is not giving up.

It’s the starting point for moving forward.

The next time life doesn’t go according to plan, pause and ask yourself:

What is outside of my control?

What is within my control?

Then choose your next step from Wise Mind.

Because while you can’t control the storm, you can choose your response.

What’s the psychological lesson here?

Pause. Reflect. Practice.

What “storm” are you navigating right now?

07/27/2026

It was a pleasure presenting alongside Dr. Michelle Myers at the Southern Westchester BOCES Institute for Inclusive Learning.

Together, we presented Beyond Behavior: DBT Informed Strategies to Create Inclusive, Emotionally Safe Learning Environments.

We explored how DBT informed strategies can help educators look beyond behavior to better understand the emotions, stress, and nervous system responses that often influence student behavior. Our session focused on practical, evidence informed approaches that educators can use to strengthen relationships, reduce escalation, and create emotionally safe, inclusive learning environments where every student has the opportunity to thrive.

Thank you to Southern Westchester BOCES for bringing together educators and leaders who are so deeply committed to supporting students and one another. We appreciated the thoughtful discussions, meaningful engagement, and shared commitment to creating schools where every student feels seen, supported, and ready to learn.

I am grateful for the opportunity to have been part of such a meaningful day and look forward to continuing these important conversations.

SWBOCES Michelle

07/27/2026

07/07/2026

Real life gives us moments.
DBT gives us skills.

Let’s explore the psychology behind both. One real-life moment at a time.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of studying, practicing, and teaching Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Somewhere along the way, it stopped being something I simply taught and became the lens through which I understand people, relationships, leadership, and everyday life.

It changed the questions I ask.

Instead of asking who’s right or who’s wrong, I find myself asking:

What’s the psychological lesson here?

That question inspired DBT in Real Life.

In this series, we’ll take real-life moments from sports, current events, leadership, parenting, and everyday life and explore the psychology behind them through practical DBT skills that anyone can use.

Episode 1 looks at a recent soccer moment involving Folarin Balogun.

The conversation focused on the red card.

The lesson was in the response.

Whether you agreed with the call or not, Balogun demonstrated emotional regulation, distress tolerance, Wise Mind, and interpersonal effectiveness by responding without escalating the situation.

Those aren’t just sports skills.

They’re life skills.

💭 Your DBT Reflection

Think about a recent situation you didn’t agree with and couldn’t change.

Which DBT skill would have helped you respond more effectively?

I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

Pause. Reflect. Practice.

07/07/2026

07/06/2026

I’m excited to share that I’ll be co-presenting at the Southern Westchester BOCES Institute for Inclusive Learning this summer!

Our session, Beyond Behavior: DBT Informed Strategies to Create Inclusive, Emotionally Safe Learning Environments, will focus on practical strategies educators can use to better understand student behavior, strengthen relationships, and create classrooms where every student feels seen, supported, and ready to learn.

I’m grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with my co-presenter, Michelle Meyers, and to learn alongside so many dedicated educators and leaders who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of students.

If you’ll be there, I’d love to connect!

05/19/2026

As the school year begins to wind down, it’s time to pause, connect, and celebrate the incredible work of our school social work community.

Join us for the NYSSSWA Social Gathering on Thursday, June 11 at The Hollows Bar & Lounge in Sleepy Hollow for an afternoon of networking, connection, relaxation, and community.

As Co-Westchester Regional Representative for NYSSSWA, I’m excited to help co-host this opportunity to come together with colleagues and friends, reflect on the year, strengthen connections, and celebrate the meaningful work we do every day in support of students and families.

Light appetizers will be served.

We hope to see you there!

Thursday, June 11, 2026
3:30 PM – 6:00 PM
The Hollows Bar & Lounge
1 Legend Dr, Sleepy Hollow, NY

Please register and let us know if you can make it!



I kept it professional but warm, aligned with your leadership role and community-building style, and limited hashtags to five.

05/13/2026

Sometimes supporting student mental health means bringing the message directly to them.

Yesterday, I had the opportunity to co host a Chalk the Walk event at school to promote mental health awareness, connection, and support. Inspired by community efforts such as those led by National Alliance on Mental Illness, we wanted to create an experience that was accessible to our students, knowing many are not able to attend after school events.

During lunch, students had the opportunity to participate by reading and creating messages of hope, encouragement, kindness, and support. Sometimes the smallest reminders can make a difference. A positive message. A moment of connection. A reminder that you are not alone.

Mental health awareness in schools is about more than one event or one month. It is about creating spaces where students feel seen, supported, and connected.

Grateful to be part of opportunities that bring wellness, belonging, and hope into our school community.

05/02/2026

May 1

Mental Health Awareness Month

A time to slow down and notice what’s happening within us
Our thoughts
Our emotions
Our patterns
Our needs

Spring reminds us that growth doesn’t happen all at once
It begins with awareness

Paying attention without judgment
Naming what we’re feeling
Checking the thoughts that shape our reactions
Choosing, even in small ways, how we respond

This is where change begins

Not in pressure
But in presence

Not in perfection
But in practice

Mental health isn’t just something we talk about this month
It’s something we take care of every day

If things feel heavy right now, start small
One breath
One pause
One more helpful thought

You’re allowed to begin again
As many times as you need

04/19/2026

Grateful to represent NYSSSWA as Westchester Regional Co-Leaders at the NYSUT Health and Educational Professionals Conference this weekend.

Being in a space with professionals across disciplines was a powerful reminder that our work is deeply connected. When we come together, we strengthen not only our professional voices, but the support we provide to students, families, and communities.

Proud to stand alongside colleagues who are committed to collaboration, advocacy, and whole child wellness.