ADHD, Anxiety, Child, Child Development, Depression, Education, Life Skills, Mental & Emotional Health, Mental Health & Support, Mood Disorders, Parenting & Child Development, Parenting Resources, Teens, The Well

When Schools Say ‘No’: Advocating for a 504 Plan Despite Strong Grades

This is a common roadblock families face—especially with students who are “high-achieving” but still struggle with ADHD. Schools often argue that because the student makes good grades, they don’t need a 504 plan. But that’s a misinterpretation of Section 504 law. Here’s how to navigate it: 1. Know the Legal Standard 👉 The Office for… Read More When Schools Say ‘No’: Advocating for a 504 Plan Despite Strong Grades

Anger Management, Family Conflict, Mental Health & Support, Parenting & Child Development, Parenting Resources, Relationships & Family Life, Stepchild, Stepparents & Stepchildren, Teens, The Well, Trauma

Supporting a Teen with a Trauma History: Why “Emotionless” Isn’t the Whole Story

Parenting a teen with a history of trauma, adoption, or disrupted attachment can feel overwhelming. You may find yourself wondering why your child seems distant, emotionless, or quick to defy rules. At Barksdale Missions, we hear this concern often — and we want you to know there are deeper reasons for these behaviors. If your… Read More Supporting a Teen with a Trauma History: Why “Emotionless” Isn’t the Whole Story

ADHD, Child, Mental & Emotional Health, Mental Health & Support, Parenting & Child Development, Relationships & Family Life, Teens, The Well, Toddlers, Women's Issues

Understanding ADHD: Support, Not Stigma

As therapists, our goal is to help individuals understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors so they can feel empowered, build healthy relationships, and navigate life’s challenges with more ease and confidence, including ADHD. One common concern we see in both children and adults is ADHD—short for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Let’s break it down. What is ADHD?… Read More Understanding ADHD: Support, Not Stigma

Blended Families, Couples Counseling, Custody Issues, Divorce, Family Conflict, Marital Counseling, Parenting & Child Development, Relationship Issues, Relationships & Family Life, The Well

Co-Parenting After Divorce: Essential Tasks for Parents and Kids

Divorce is a major life transition. For parents, it can feel like a personal and logistical upheaval. For children, it may bring confusion, loss, and insecurity. But with the right tools and a shared commitment to co-parenting, families can not only survive but heal and grow. Whether you’re in the early stages of separation or… Read More Co-Parenting After Divorce: Essential Tasks for Parents and Kids

ADHD, Anxiety, Child, Mental & Emotional Health, Mental Health & Support, Parenting & Child Development, Relationships & Family Life, Stepchild, Stepparent, Support, Teens, The Well, Women's Issues

Navigating Life with ADHD: A Parent’s Perspective

Life can be incredibly challenging for both parents and children impacted by Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Many children with ADHD are unfairly labeled as “bad” kids, leaving parents and caregivers feeling frustrated, judged, and often defeated. As an adult with ADHD and a mother of children who also have ADHD, I’ve experienced my fair… Read More Navigating Life with ADHD: A Parent’s Perspective

Blended Families, Child, Family Conflict, Mental & Emotional Health, Mental Health & Support, Parenting & Child Development, Relationship Issues, Relationships & Family Life, Siblings, Stepchild, Stepparent, Support, The Well, Women's Issues

Bidirectional Relationships in Stepfamilies: Mutual Impact Between Stepparents and Stepchildren

The was written as an assignment for FS468 Parenting in Contemporary Societies at Mississippi University for Women in Spring 2019. Bidirectional Relationships in Stepfamilies: Mutual Impact Between Stepparents and Stepchildren Ashley BarksdaleMississippi University for WomenApril 10, 2019 Introduction In the United States, approximately 9% of married couples and 12% of cohabiting households contain resident stepchildren… Read More Bidirectional Relationships in Stepfamilies: Mutual Impact Between Stepparents and Stepchildren

Adoption, Child, Info, Parenting & Child Development, Relationships & Family Life, Support, The Well

Adoption Resources: Support, Guidance & Opportunities

Adoption is a life-changing journey for both birth parents and adoptive families. Whether you’re considering placing a child for adoption, adopting a child, or simply seeking resources to understand the process, there are many organizations that can help. Below is a list of trusted adoption resources that offer guidance, support, and services to those navigating… Read More Adoption Resources: Support, Guidance & Opportunities