For many people, social media is a constant presence in their daily routines. It offers opportunities for connection and discovery, but it also brings unique challenges—particularly when it comes to self-esteem. Sara Costello, LCSW , a licensed clinical social worker at Life InSight in Cresskill, NJ, has extensive experience working with young people and their families to address the impacts of social media. She offers insights into how these platforms shape self-perception and strategies to help teens and young adults navigate them more healthily. The Echo Chamber Effect Social media can affect self-esteem by creating an "echo chamber" through its algorithms. These algorithms monitor what people engage with and then keep showing them more of the same type of content. It might feel tailored to you, but it often amplifies certain feelings or thoughts—sometimes for the better, but often for the worse. "Algorithms can sometimes reinforce insecurities by showing content that aligns with an individual's negative self-image," explains Sara Costello. "For instance, a teen who already feels self-conscious about their body might start seeing more posts about unrealistic beauty standards, which can make them feel even worse." Parents can help their children by teaching them to think more critically about what they see online and encouraging them to focus on building real-world relationships that foster confidence and a healthy sense of self-worth. The Comparison Trap For many young people, scrolling through social media often means comparing themselves to others. This comparison can occur in two ways: Upward Comparison: When someone compares themselves to influencers or peers they aspire to be like. While this can sometimes be motivating, it often leads to feelings of inadequacy. Downward Comparison: When someone compares themselves to others they perceive as "less successful" or "less fortunate." This might offer temporary relief but can foster a judgmental mindset. "Teens are especially vulnerable to comparison because they're still figuring out who they are," Sara explains. "When their self-worth becomes tied to likes, comments, or the curated lives of others, it can lead to anxiety, depression, and a distorted sense of self." Helping Teens and Young Adults Navigate Social Media Sara emphasizes that while social media can negatively impact self-esteem, it doesn't have to. Parents can help their children develop healthier relationships with these platforms through mindful strategies and open communication. "Research has shown that heavy social media use can lead to increased rates of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem," Sara notes. Here are some practical tips: Set Time Limits Together: Work with your teen to establish reasonable screen time boundaries. Encourage Positive Content: Suggest following accounts that promote kindness, education, or inspiration. Foster Real-Life Connections: Help your teen prioritize in-person relationships with supportive friends and family. Model Healthy Behavior: Show your teen how to use social media responsibly by practicing it yourself. "How we mitigate the negative impacts are to limit the exposure to social media, focus on the real connections in our lives, be critical of content we are consuming, and promote positive social media use," Sara advises. Starting the Conversation Talking to your teen about social media can be challenging, but it’s an important way to understand its effects. Sara suggests that parents approach these conversations with an open mind and genuine curiosity instead of jumping to conclusions or judgment. "Start by asking open-ended questions to understand how your child interacts with social media," she says. "For example, ask, 'What do you like about social media?' or 'How do certain posts make you feel?' This creates an opportunity for meaningful dialogue without making them feel defensive." It’s equally important to acknowledge the positive aspects of social media, like learning new skills or staying connected with friends, while working together to set healthy boundaries. Sara suggests involving teens in decisions about screen time and social media use to foster trust and mutual respect. Life InSight: Supporting Families in the Digital Age At Life InSight in Cresskill, NJ, the team understands families' unique challenges in today's digital landscape. With years of experience supporting children, teens, and parents, Sara Costello and her colleagues offer tailored approaches to help young people build self-esteem, manage anxiety, and navigate the pressures of social media. "Social media is here to stay, but that doesn't mean we're powerless against its negative effects," Sara says. "By creating open communication and a supportive environment, families can help their children develop the tools they need to thrive online and offline." If your child or teen is struggling with self-esteem, anxiety, or the pressures of social media, Life InSight is here to help . Their compassionate, expert team offers personalized services designed to support families through every step of the journey.

Fostering Family Harmony: Reducing Tension and Building Understanding in the New Year The start of a new year brings a sense of renewal and possibility, making it an ideal time for families to reflect on their relationships and set intentions for the future. It’s a chance to identify what’s working well, address challenges, and create a more harmonious home environment. At LifeInsight in Cresskill, NJ, we’re dedicated to helping families strengthen their connections and improve their well-being. A Fresh Start for Families The New Year offers an opportunity for families to prioritize their relationships. Whether it’s carving out time for meaningful conversations, improving communication, or tackling unresolved conflicts, small, intentional changes can make a big difference. For some, seeking outside support through therapy can be a powerful step toward fostering healthier dynamics and building stronger bonds. Common Challenges Families Face Family life can be both rewarding and challenging. Miscommunication, unmet expectations, or unresolved conflicts are common sources of tension. External stressors, like work demands, school responsibilities, or financial pressures, often add to the strain. Recognizing these challenges is the first step toward finding effective solutions and creating a more peaceful home environment. Simple Ways to Reduce Tension Creating a harmonious family environment doesn’t require a complete overhaul—sometimes small adjustments can have the biggest impact. Here are a few strategies that can help: Communicate Openly: Encourage every family member to share their thoughts and feelings in a supportive and nonjudgmental setting. Listen Actively: Show respect by genuinely listening to one another without interrupting. Set Boundaries: Define clear expectations and respect personal space to reduce misunderstandings. Plan Family Check-Ins: Regularly come together to discuss successes, challenges, and goals as a family. For those navigating ongoing challenges, family and parent therapy provides a neutral and supportive space to explore deeper issues and develop practical solutions. How Therapy Supports Families Family and parent therapy focuses on improving communication, resolving conflicts, and fostering understanding. It’s particularly helpful during times of change or stress, such as a major life transition or a shift in household dynamics. Family and parent therapy offers tools to navigate these moments and helps families work together to overcome challenges. At LifeInsight, we also offer individualized care and therapy, which focuses on equipping parents with strategies to better connect with and support their children. Whether it’s addressing behavioral issues, navigating adolescence, or improving communication, parent therapy can empower families to create a stronger foundation for growth. A Closer Look at Parent Therapy Parent therapy at LifeInsight is designed to help caregivers handle the complexities of raising children in today’s fast-paced world. For example, a parent managing a teenager’s academic pressures or guiding a younger child through emotional challenges can benefit from practical strategies tailored to their situation. These tools not only help parents feel more confident in their roles but also foster trust and understanding within the family. Start the New Year with Intention This New Year, consider how your family can grow closer and build stronger connections. At LifeInsight we’re here to guide you through the journey. Whether you’re exploring therapy for the first time or looking to strengthen your family’s relationships, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your family’s well-being and start the year on a positive note.

Life is full of challenges, and for those grappling with learning difficulties, behavioral concerns, or cognitive changes, the reasons behind these struggles often remain unclear. At Life InSight, we believe neuropsychological assessments are more than a diagnostic tool—they're a way to uncover how the brain influences daily life and to develop meaningful strategies to address those challenges. What Makes Neuropsychological Assessments Different? Neuropsychological assessments dig deep into the brain’s workings, offering a clearer picture of cognitive and emotional functioning. These assessments evaluate areas such as memory, problem-solving, attention, and language, giving a comprehensive overview of how someone processes and interacts with the world. Key areas of focus include: Memory and Attention: Identifying patterns in how information is retained or overlooked. Problem-solving and Executive Functioning: Understanding strengths and weaknesses in planning, decision-making, and adaptability. Language and Communication: Examining how individuals comprehend and express themselves verbally. Emotional and Behavioral Functioning: Exploring the connection between mood, behavior, and cognitive abilities. The results are more than data points—they are insights tailored to help families, schools, and healthcare providers make informed decisions that lead to real, positive change. Who Should Consider Neuropsychological Testing? Neuropsychological assessments are not exclusive to any one age group—they’re helpful for children, teens, and adults alike. These evaluations are particularly valuable for: Children struggling with school performance or social behavior. Teens or adults noticing changes in cognitive abilities due to medical conditions, injury, or aging. Families seeking clarity on learning difficulties or behavioral challenges. For many, these assessments provide a long-overdue explanation for why certain challenges exist, allowing them to move forward with confidence and clarity. Why Are These Evaluations So Important? Understanding how the brain works unlocks opportunities for growth. Neuropsychological assessments provide a roadmap for creating personalized interventions that are grounded in an individual’s unique cognitive and emotional makeup. They help: Clarify Diagnoses: Accurately identify conditions like ADHD, learning disabilities, or neurological disorders. Guide Interventions: Equip caregivers, educators, and therapists with practical strategies for improvement. Support Accommodations: Advocate for meaningful adjustments at school or work to help individuals thrive. This level of insight is particularly valuable when standard approaches haven’t provided answers. Whether it’s helping a student succeed in the classroom or ensuring an adult feels empowered at work, neuropsychological evaluations create opportunities for success. What to Expect from the Process The testing process at Life InSight is designed to be thorough, thoughtful, and supportive. We start with an initial consultation to gather a full picture of the individual’s medical, educational, and personal history. The testing itself includes a mix of standardized measures tailored to evaluate specific areas of cognitive function. After the assessment is completed, we provide a detailed, personalized report that not only explains the results but also offers actionable recommendations for the future. Whether it’s guidance for an IEP meeting or strategies to address workplace challenges, the goal is always to empower individuals and those supporting them. Why Choose Life InSight? At Life InSight, we believe that every individual deserves to be understood. Our approach combines scientific precision with a genuine commitment to personal care. We take the time to listen, observe, and collaborate, ensuring every recommendation is meaningful and actionable. For a more in-depth overview of the process, visit our blog on neuropsychological testing . This resource offers additional details on assessing cognitive and emotional functioning and how our methods can lead to lasting change. Take the Next Step Toward Clarity If you or a loved one is facing challenges with learning, behavior, or cognition, there’s no need to navigate it alone. Neuropsychological assessments can provide the clarity and guidance you need to make informed decisions. Contact Life InSight today to schedule a consultation. Together, we’ll uncover the path to a brighter future.

Empower your child to overcome anxiety with SPACE treatment at Life InSight Center in Cresskill, Bergen County. Learn evidence-based parenting strategies to reduce anxiety symptoms and foster resilience.

Preparing your child for neuropsychological or psycho-educational testing can feel daunting, but with some planning, it doesn’t have to be. These evaluations—completed in person in our Bergen County office—are tools to understand better your child’s learning style, strengths, and areas that may need extra support. Read this straightforward guide to help your child feel prepared and at ease.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can be exhausting and disruptive, affecting a significant part of life for adults who struggle with it. For those in Bergen County dealing with OCD, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – specifically, a method called Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) – is a proven effective approach and understanding how CBT and ERP work can help you decide if this path might be the right fit for managing your OCD symptoms and improving your quality of life. Breaking Down OCD and Its Impact OCD is a mental health condition where intrusive thoughts, or “obsessions,” can lead to repetitive actions or “compulsions” meant to relieve anxiety. However, these behaviors usually bring only temporary relief, causing the cycle of obsessions and compulsions to repeat. Common OCD themes include contamination fears, worries about harm, a need for perfection, or disturbing intrusive thoughts. For many adults with OCD, these patterns can disrupt work, relationships, and personal well-being. How CBT Works for OCD Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, has long been a trusted treatment for OCD. CBT is based on the idea that thoughts, feelings, and actions are all connected. By identifying negative thought patterns and learning healthier responses, people with OCD can reduce the grip these patterns have on their lives. CBT focuses on rethinking automatic negative beliefs and teaches practical ways to manage anxiety, which can lessen OCD symptoms over time. The Role of Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) ERP is a specialized form of CBT and is known to be particularly effective for OCD. In ERP therapy, individuals work with a therapist to gradually confront situations that trigger obsessive thoughts. Instead of responding with compulsive behaviors, they learn to sit with the anxiety and let it pass without giving in to compulsions. This process, over time, retrains the brain to see that the feared outcomes often don’t happen, and even if discomfort arises, it is manageable. For example, someone who fears contamination may avoid public places or wash their hands compulsively. In ERP, they might gradually expose themselves to these feared situations without washing excessively afterward. As they practice sitting with their anxiety, the intense need to “fix” it through compulsions usually begins to fade. Why ERP is So Effective for OCD ERP is unique because it tackles both the thought and behavior sides of OCD. By repeatedly facing a fear and resisting the compulsion to act, people with OCD learn to tolerate their anxiety without falling back on compulsions. The process, known as “habituation,” helps reduce both the power of obsessive thoughts and the urge to respond compulsively. For many, this approach is empowering because it shows they can manage their anxiety and live without their OCD dictating their actions. What to Expect in CBT and ERP Therapy in Bergen County If you’re in Bergen County and seeking OCD treatment, our therapists are able to offer CBT and ERP in-person, using in-vivo exposures. Therapy sessions are often structured to address your specific symptoms and triggers, helping you practice techniques that allow you to manage these patterns outside of the therapy room. Sessions may include: Identifying Triggers and Patterns : First, the therapist will help you explore the situations or thoughts that set off your OCD cycle. Exposure Practice : Gradual exposure exercises allow you to confront your triggers in a manageable way. Response Prevention Techniques: The therapist will guide you through resisting the urge to perform compulsive behaviors, helping you build new responses. Therapy often includes “homework” assignments to help you practice exposure exercises in real-life situations, reinforcing the skills learned in sessions. Benefits of CBT and ERP for Adults with OCD Better Day-to-Day Functioning: Reducing obsessions and compulsions allows people with OCD to experience more freedom and flexibility. Increased Emotional Resilience : CBT and ERP help individuals build coping skills to handle anxiety more effectively over time. Greater Sense of Control: By learning how to face fears and manage urges, people with OCD gain a new sense of control over their thoughts and actions. Lasting Results: CBT and ERP provide tools for lifelong management of OCD, which can be more sustainable than relying solely on medication. Seeking OCD Treatment in Bergen County For those in Bergen County ready to explore treatment options for OCD, reaching out to Life InSIght, with expertise in CBT and ERP, can be a significant first step. We will match you with the right therapist who can offer a structured, supportive environment to work through your challenges and build confidence, as well as the skills to manage OCD symptoms in everyday life. With CBT and ERP, many people find they can reduce the hold OCD has on them, allowing them to live more freely. If you’re ready to take that first step toward managing OCD, consider connecting to a Life InSight therapist who specializes in these proven methods for OCD treatment. Reach out to learn more

Discover how Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help you manage anxiety, depression, and more. Learn about CBT techniques and examples to improve mental health in Bergen County.

Discover how Life InSight's neuropsychological testing services can provide a clear understanding of cognitive function and guide effective treatment in Bergen County. Schedule your evaluation today!

It is probably more important than ever, in this digital age, to develop social competency in children. While technology offers us unprecedented connectivity with one another, developing the essential skills of face-to-face interactions can be negatively impacted by our overreliance on digital interactions. Furthermore, many children, whether they face developmental challenges or not, may struggle to intuitively grasp the intricacies and nuances of effective communication, social graces, and emotional regulation in various social scenarios. Direct teaching of these skills can neutralize the impact of technology and innate challenges. It can equip children with tools to navigate their social worlds more effectively. Children can learn to recognize social cues that will help them understand the impact of their behavior on others and be taught to think more flexibly and engage in active listening and problem-solving which will serve them well as they face increasingly complex social interactions. While many children benefit from learning these skills in one-to-one settings, there are several advantages to group-based skills training. Group settings mimic real-world scenarios and dynamics. Utilizing cooperative activities, role-play, games, and conversation, children are placed in similar situations that they would be in their lives. They learn to negotiate interpersonal dynamics, tolerate other’s opinions, and give and receive feedback respectfully. As this is a highly facilitated experience, they can receive coaching in real-time from the group facilitator to support their success in the group and hopefully generalize that success outside of the group. Successful group interactions can provide children with the confidence that they need to be successful outside of the group, which is of course the goal. And probably most importantly, it is just more fun! While those of us who did not grow up in the digital age may lament the loss of certain aspects of interpersonal relatedness, group social skills training may help bridge those gaps and set our children up for social success no matter what technological evolutions lie ahead.