May 2017

LET & ABLE News

Licensure Education Training & Adolescents for Better Learning Endeavors Programs

A publication of Recco S. Richardson Consulting, Inc. • Recco Santee Richardson, Ph.D., LPC

 

Issue 29 … May  2017

 

Dr. Recco’s Corner

    Well, the summer months are upon us. Like many of you, I plan to take full advantage of the weather, greater outdoors and time off work. Just the thought of the stated brings a smile to my face.

    For many, along with summer’s warm weather comes an increase in crime, family strain and misguided intentions by children, teens and adults. The stated does not bring a smile to my face.

    I’m taking the liberty and authority to decree and proclaim that summer 2017 will be a tremendous time of family, living, safety and mindfulness.

    I dare to say that a mere 10 dedicated and well versed individuals like you and I can change the trajectory and outcomes of the coming summer months experiences that the most at-risk and marginalized populations need as a time of hope and restoration.

    Will you stand with me in the liberty where with we have been set free and promote wholesome life experiences this summer for everyone that crosses our path?

 

Recco

Helping Male Teens Avoid Crime (Part I)

By Recco Santee Richardson, Ph.D., LPC

  Introduction

    Youth crime and violence is a problem in most societies. Children and adolescents take part in criminal activities for a number of reasons. At some point, they make an arbitrary decision to break the law as a result of buying into various stereotypes. The move towards crime by children/adolescents is also a result of their feeling marginalized in society and possibly being victims of abuse/neglect at some point.

    Lastly, criminal activity tends to follow children/adolescents who participate in sexual intercourse early in life (age 11), early experimentation with alcoholic beverages (age 11) and early exposure to gun violence (age 12).

    When exposed to ongoing family dysfunction, children/adolescents may struggle to do well in life and become involved in criminal activities (delinquent behaviors). Kumpfer (2010) reported that not only is it costly, but family dysfunction is the leading contributor to negative behaviors among adolescents.

    Other factors are peer influence, poor parenting skills and lack of parental involvement. These and other factors can ignite unhealthy behaviors like substance abuse, delinquency-criminal behavior, and early or unprotected sex.  

   There are a number of approaches to family interventions which proved to be effective in strengthening family systems and preventing family violence and behavioral or mental health problems in youth.

    As well, there are several strategies for decreasing dysfunction within the home such as regulating of leisure time, awareness, employment/cash, restorative justice and community based interventions.

 

Mental Health & Criminal Behavior

    Typically, children/adolescents diagnosed with mental health disorders such as Conduct Disorder, Oppositional Defiant disorder and Attention Deficit Hyper-Activity Disorder can be helped, thus avoiding possible future criminal activities and side-stepping antisocial behaviors.

    The stated childhood mental health disorders along with character flaws such as lying, stealing, vandalizing, bullying, and experimenting with drugs can lead to being convicted of a felony or misdemeanor. What is critical for parents and educators to realize and address is the fact that childhood mental health disorders often lead to school violence, incarceration, childhood/teen suicide, higher school dropout rates, etc.

    Criminal behavior (also referred to as antisocial behavior) is defined as an overall lack of adherence to the social morals and standards that allow members of a society to coexist peaceably.

    For children/adolescents the behaviors equate to delinquency that can trigger adulthood arrest, conviction or incarceration.

    Their poor mental health status, subsequent behaviors, propensity for violence and involvement in criminal activities can be traced back to environment, inconsistent parenting, lack of natural consequences, academic underachievement and genetics.  To be continued in next month’s newsletter

 

 

SAVE THE DATE

“A Closer Look” Mental Health & Service Provider’s Conference

    The 3rd Annual “A Closer Look” Mental Health & Service Provider’s Conference will be held Friday September 22, 2017 in Lansing, MI.

    Presenters will share information, interventions and practical insight regarding trauma, grief/loss, suicide prevention, treatment planning and emerging trends and other relevant topics.

    It is anticipated that four to seven (4-7) continuing education hours will be approved  by several professional certification boards.  

More conference details will be provided soon.

ABLE Program

    The Adolescents for Better Learning Endeavors (ABLE) Program is designed to help school age youth move forward as a result of gaining new skills and competency.

    The goal is for participants to be able to successfully participate within the school setting. The program helps participants improve their academics, social life, emotional maturity and decision-making skills.

 

ABLE Program Components:

 

• Individual Counseling
• Family Counseling
• Home Visits
• Crisis Management
• Parenting Workshops
• Incentives & Awards
• Support Groups
• Exciting Fieldtrips

 

Money For College

    The State of Michigan continues to offer the highly acclaimed Tuition Incentive Program (TIP). Established in 1997, the program encourages high school completion by providing tuition assistance for the first two years of college and beyond. There is a Phase I and Phase II of the program.

    Phase I covers enrollment in a certificate or Associate Degree program. Students must meet Medicaid eligibility history requirements, apply prior to high school graduation and complete the FAFSA.  For more information, contact our office or call TIP at 1-800-433-3243.

 

What Teens Wish Adults Knew About Parenting (Pt IV)

Excepts Taken From “Listen to me: A journey into the lives of today’s youth” (2009)

    This is the fourth and final part in our series on parenting.  Once again, we travel back and review what some typical Flint teens wrote about their fathers in 2009. The majority of young authors are now full-time college students and making a difference in the world and on campus.

 

By Deonte, 12th Grader

    Most people these days don’t have two parents that really care for them. I do and I really appreciate it. My appreciation is not because they provide for me and buy things for me. I value them for their teachings and the education in life that they give me. When it comes down to life, they want their offspring (me) to prosper. For this, I’m very thankful. They have raised me to succeed in life.

    My father and I have been through a lot of things together in our lives. I remember the first divorce and recently when he took me in when I had nowhere else to go. By him being there for me, I have developed into manhood. Our relationship can sometimes be seen as a respectful best friendship. We really get along. We both know when to draw the line and get down to business. Overall, my father (Otis Monroe Williams) and I have the strongest relationship that I have with anyone.

    Like any close relationship, we butt heads and have disagreements. We always have been able to work out our differences, which strengthens the relationship between the two of us.

    Our relationship is important to me because he really understands me and how I feel. He knows when to be real with me and when to make me feel good. He is important to me because sometimes he may be all I have. When I have problems and those around me turn their backs on me, my father is still there in every situation.

    In real relationships, there are always areas of improvement. I need for my father to listen to me more, hear what I have to say and understand how I feel about things. I also need him to agree with me more when certain things happen (i.e. my getting in trouble).

By Meosha, 10th Grader

    Young people, if you know your father, appreciate it. There are many people who don’t know their father and wish that they did. I’m one of those people who don’t know their father. I have never met him. I believe that not knowing my father does not affect me at this point in my life. Maybe in the future it will.

    If I ever get a chance to meet him, I would take it. I say this because there are a lot of things that a father can teach. He can teach me things that my mother can’t.

By Tarence, 10th Grader

    My relationship with my father is okay. Sometimes it is not the best, especially when we argue about stuff. I’m adopted and entered his life at 18 months of age. From this time until age 13, he was comfortable letting my adoptive mother play both parental roles. She usually taught me right from wrong and she gave out the punishments when I did something wrong.

    I can only think of one time that he speaks of punishing me when I did something wrong as a little child. Now that I’m 15 years old, he is getting more involved in my life and household affairs.

    He talks to me more and offers his advice. I respect him for this because he is the only father that I have. For most of my life, my biological father has been incarcerated.

    My father and I have a lot of things in common. We both like basketball, football and other sports. We can talk about sports for hours. He used to take me to sporting events, pick me up from practice and take me over to his friend’s home. He transported us everywhere so that my mother did not have to.

    I think he was her spy and reported to her our behaviors out in public. In his wisdom, he allowed my mother to handle our poor behaviors. For years, his favorite place was our garage. He loves going out there to relax.

    He can improve our relationship by helping me even more with my schoolwork. I also need more of his help at home. It would help me if he paid more attention to the family.

By Rani, 7th Grader

    My relationship with my father is very good. He is very easy to talk to. My father is a pretty easygoing guy. Most people cut me off when I’m talking, but he does not do this to me. He is very helpful and generous.

    Almost everything I ask for, I get it one way or another. That is unless my mother says no. His answer to everything is “Go ask your mother.” This makes me want to say, “Do you ever make decisions by yourself?”

    My relationship with him is important to me because I learn a lot from him. He teaches me about stuff that I don’t learn in school. He does not teach me about math, science or social studies. He talks to me and teaches me about the world.

    He makes sure I know what is going on in the world around me. I mean, don’t get me wrong, I like algebra, formulas and all the information that I learn about Africa. It is just that the things he teaches and talks to me about help shape my future more.

    He can help improve our relationship by treating me according to my age. What I mean is that my father and other adults always say, “You have to act your age to get treated your age.” I do this, but still get treated like I’m a kid.

    I get all A’s on my report card and have good behaviors at school. How else do I have to act? How old does he want me to act?

    I think what he has to realize is that I’m not his little girl anymore. I’m almost a teenager. He has to start treating me like a teenager. Please! I really don’t like being the only person at my school that does not have a cell phone.

    For some odd reason, my father (and mother) thinks that if I get a cell phone, my grades are going to hit the dirt. This is another one of their darned stereotypes. Man, I really hate those things.

By Jordan, 7th Grader

    My relationship with my father is wonderful. We get along very well. I’m grateful to have him. Most youth don’t have a father in the home. My father might get on my nerves, yet our relationship is still great. Actually our relationship is healthy.

    Because he spoils me most of the time, I feel like I use him to get what I want. I think it is this way because he is not home a lot. We don’t get many chances to argue. I trust him a lot.

    When I get into trouble with my mother, he knows how to calm her down and get me out of trouble. Like I said, I’m very grateful to have a father like him.

    My relationship with my father is important to me because it is good for me. He is special to me and I’m special to him. He works a job that he hates and works long hours just to bring home a paycheck, to buy food, to put a roof over my head and designer clothes on my back. I owe him.

    He is important to me. He would take a gun-shot for me. He is strong for me when I can’t be strong for myself. I don’t want to hurt him. When I observe other girls, their fathers don’t seem comfortable around them or their friends.

    My father and I can improve our relationship if he were to stop babying me. We need to move towards a more mature relationship. We also could improve our relationship by finding time to be with each other and the family. He is always at work and I don’t always see him. When he does come home, he usually goes to sleep. I know he is tired from working a 15-hour day.

    Sometimes I feel like he should just quit and find another job. They probably will lay him off in August or make him work some hours for no pay. What is the use of going to work and not getting paid for all of your time? If I were in his situation, I would quit and find a good-paying job with reasonable work hours so as to have time with my family. I know that it is not that easy for my father to just drop his job. I hope it all works out.

By Israel, 12th Grader

    My relationship with my father can be disturbing and abusive with a lot of arguing. I struggle with trusting him. The reason why I say that is because of the level of abuse me and my siblings have experienced in the past. I find myself needing to forgive because I don’t want to be the victim anymore. My relationship with my father is wasting away. This is because I’m in foster care. My relationship with him has become filled with anger, distrust and disgust.

    Due to his level of denial, I have a hard time liking him. When he does admit to various things, the next day he turns around and denies everything. This is difficult for me to deal with. I’m not sure if I can live with him again. His mental issues and problems leave us with unresolved issues that he refuses to discuss. He refers to our concerns as a fantasy because in his world most of our concerns never happened.

    My relationship with him is important because I need him to teach me how to be a man. I need to learn from him how to respect adults and how to treat women. Maybe he does not have these characteristics himself, thus he can’t teach or help me.  I don’t think he realizes how much I need and rely on him to teach me things. As a result I have been teaching myself things that he should teach me.

    Regardless, I still need his help. I need to have a relationship with him. This would help me become a respectful and independent adult. I want to have a good relationship with my father so that I can relate to other males that I meet.

    I can improve my relationship with him by talking about things with him. We can discuss his childhood, forgive each other and move on. He made his mistakes. I think I’m over everything. We both can learn from everything that has happened. We can learn to agree to disagree.

   I respect him but I don’t necessarily trust him. I’m not sure what he is capable of doing to me next time. I hope that everything will be resolved one day, even if he never admits some things.

By Aisha, 8th Grader

    My relationship with my father is good. We love each other and show it by not arguing. Actually we barely ever argue. We think about each other. For example if we were at the store without each other and saw an item of interest, we would get it for each other. I show him that I love him by folding his laundry. He shows his love by buying me things and cooking me breakfast.

    We have trust in each other. If I were to tell him something, I can trust that he would not tell other people or sabotage my life. He does not make a big deal out of things nor does he create problems. We play with each other and always hug. This happens while we are out to dinner or when we see each other in the house.

    My relationship with my father is important to me because I want to be able to talk with him about my problems. He actually listens and depending on the topic gives some good ideas. I want to be comfortable when I’m around him so that it does not feel weird.

    My father can improve our relationship by spending more time with me. I would like for him to play video games with me and take me places.

By Imani, 8th Grader

    My relationship with my dad is okay most of the time. It could be much better if he did not work so much and spend so much time with his girlfriend. His girlfriend is not mean and she makes some good lemonade. It is just that they spend too much time together. I’m starting to get jealous.

    Sometimes when we go to his house, we just watch television or he goes to his bedroom. We could be watching television at home. Anyway, I’m sort of happy because we are supposed to go bowling with him this week. If we go, I will not invite any of my friends to go. When my friends go with us, he always starts talking to them, especially my friends that are boys.

    My relationship with my father is important to me. I need a man in my life so that I don’t end up depending on other boys to take the place of my father. I also need him in my life because I need as many people as possible supporting me. It is important that he supports our family as much as he can. It’s not enough to just pay child support payment.

     He can improve our relationship by spending more time with me and hanging out with me. Right now my friends are closer to me than he is. They probably know more about me than he does. He could improve our relationship by calling me more. I need more than a once a week, brief call from him.  

    I think he could help my mother out a little bit more than he does. For example he could transport us to different places so that my mom can save her gas. He could start thinking about us more and not about himself all the time.

LET Program

    Offered by Recco S. Richardson Consulting, Inc., the Licensure Educational Training (LET) Program is an effective supervisory program that targets Limited Licensed Professional Counselors (LLPCs) who need supervision.

    Please contact our office if you are in need of LLPC supervision.  Currently, LET programming is offered in three cities and has regular participants from 10 different counties.

 

LET Services

 

Group Supervision: Monthly gatherings that review caseloads, offer Q/A sessions, discusses trends in the field, secures guest speakers and much more.

Individual Supervision: As requested, informal one-on-one sessions that provide personal attention, intentional brainstorming and insightful strategies.

Communication: Unlimited monthly communication via phone, email and text.

Other: NCE workshops, counseling residencies, business services support, book club and scholarly writing/research.

Services Offered By RSRC

 

Afterschool Programming • Staff Trainings/Development • Business/Entrepreneur Support Individual/Family Counseling • Research Institute • Book Writing/Publishing  Treatment/Support Groups • Educational Services • Post-Adoption Services • School-Based Initiatives • LLPC Licensure Supervision • Compliance/Regulation • Grant/Proposal Writing • Cultural/Educational Fieldtrips • Youth Programming • Motivational Speaking Program Development • Conferences/Retreats • NCE Test Workshops • Agency Clinical Directorship

 

Contact Us

                                         

Recco S. Richardson Consulting, Inc.      

Recco Santee Richardson, Ph.D., LPC                                           

2500 S Linden Road, P.O Box 321252 .. Flint, MI 48532                                

(810) 394-7815 (Office)  (810) 732-6657 (Fax)                                  

website: richardsonsconsulting.com                                 

email:reccorichardsonphd@gmail.com

April 2017

LET & ABLE News

Licensure Education Training & Adolescents for Better Learning Endeavors Programs

A publication of Recco S. Richardson Consulting, Inc. • Recco Santee Richardson, Ph.D., LPC

 

Issue 28 … April 2017

 

Dr. Recco’s Corner

    I’m becoming concerned! Concerned about the direction and needs of children as they try to navigate their K-6 education and the world around them.

    My concerns are validated on a daily basis when I talk with parents, educators, medical field professionals and clergy. In times past I (and others) were quick to say that the solution is “better parenting.” That is not my stance any longer.

    For the children that I’m most concerned about, the solution is village parenting, structure, natural and loving consequences,  internal/external motivators, access to effective services and wholesome nurturing that are all provided by parents and a host of caring adults.

    Every child is precious and special. All they need sometimes is for someone like you and I to stand and do something on their behalf.

    As I stated in last month’s newsletter in this very column, I need as many caring adults as possible to stand with me. For the next 60 days, can I depend on you to stand? Stand and make a difference in the life of your child, somebody’s child, any child or a lost child?

Recco

 

Does Your Elementary Age Child Need Behavior Day Treatment?

By Recco Santee Richardson, Ph.D., LPC

    Does your young child (age 7-12) need a 45 day intensive and impactful treatment program that is prevention/intervention in nature? Before you answer, be aware that all over America, there is a need for “non-residential” behavior day treatment programming for children.  

    The need exists because earlier and earlier, ordinary children are experiencing increased stressors, on-going school referrals/suspensions, traumatic life changes, mental health issues, defiance towards adults, relationship problems, anger and home life problems.  

    Parents, feel comfortable knowing that you are not alone. There are hundreds of parents who are struggling with raising their young child.  You should know that successful behavior day treatment programs have the ability to enhance participants’ emotional healthiness, sense of direction, self-love and bond/attachment.

    In most communities, there is a growing number of children who are at-risk of abuse, neglect, violence, underachievement, slow processing and engagement and questionable behaviors. More than ever, today’s children are given to poor decision making, anger, depression, low confidence, isolation and trauma.  

    As a result, parents should re-think the need to place their child in a behavior day treatment program.  Quality programs successfully help youth build solid relationships, cope with conflict,  communicate effectively, express themselves, heal from emotional pain, address issues of loss/grief, be inspired to dream, gain a support system and feel safe.

Last Call For RSRC 3rd Annual Recharge Self Care Conference

    The 3rd Annual Recharge Service Providers Self Care Conference is right around the corner. The conference will be held Saturday April 29, 2017 at Covenant Hills Retreat & Camp, Otisville, MI.

    The morning workshop sessions (which are approved by National Board of Certified Counselors for three CE units) will be held 8 am – 11:30 am. The afternoon workshop sessions will be held 1 pm – 4:30 pm. The cost is $100 for each session.  

    Registration began March 1, 2017. To register/pay on-line, visit the web page http://www.richardsonsconsulting.com/recharge/.

    The registration form and payment can be mailed to Recco S. Richardson Consulting, Inc., 2500 S. Linden Road, P.O. Box 321252, Flint, MI 48532.

CE Units & Self Care Conference

    The morning session of the “Recharge” Service Providers Self Care Conference (Self-Care, the Pursuit of Happiness & Helping Others session only) has been approved by the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC) for three (3) NBCC credits.

 

What Teens Wish Adults Knew About Parenting (Pt III) 

Excepts Taken From “Listen to me: A journey into the lives of today’s youth” (2009)

    This is the third part in our series on parenting. We are going back in time and reviewing what some typical Flint teens wrote about their mothers in 2009. The majority of young authors are now full-time college students and making a difference in the world and on campus.

By Lilly, 10th Grader

    My relationship with my mother is strong. We get along very well. We shop, go to the movies and have fun together. She is like the mother I always wanted. She is a mother that loves me and treats me like a spoiled brat.

    My relationship with her is important to me because she takes good care of me. We take care of each other even during hard times or in sickness. When she has something on her mind that needs to be said, we go for a ride or go see a movie. This helps take the pain away. If I have a problem with someone, I go to my mother about it. She is there for me.

    She can help improve our relationship by trusting me more. I know in a mother’s blood they feel that if they trust too much, their daughter will do something dumb.  I have done enough dumb things to last a life time. Yet, my mother continues to love me and believe in me.

By Meosha, 10th Grader

    My relationship with my mother is much different than the one I have with my father. My mother is very loving, strong and understanding. Our relationship is important to me because I would be nowhere in life without her.

    I can’t see myself being raised by another woman. I say this because if my mother would not have taken me into her life and adopted me, I could still be in foster care going from home to home. She is the only mother that I know. I would not have it any other way.

    I believe my mother could improve our relationship by listening to me, being even more understanding and trusting me. I believe that our relationship is good. It could be better if these three areas improved. I really believe that if she trusted me more, our relationship would flourish.

    The problems that I have caused in our relationship have broken her trust. I have stolen from her. I have lied to her. I know it may take some time to restore her trust.

By Asia, 8th Grader

    My birth mother lost her parental rights. After living with her for years, my foster mother eventually adopted me. Ever since her decision, we have had a close relationship.  

    She is a loving person and protects me from all harm. Today our relationship features us caring for each other. She cares for me and she would risk her life for me. I now realize how much she does for me. For example, when she goes to the grocery store she buys chips, brownies, cupcakes and other sweets even though she does not eat junk food. She also spends a lot of her money on my shoes and clothes.

    The relationship with my adoptive mother is important to me because she means so much to me. When I’m sad, she shows how much she loves me. When I need her support the most, she provides it. We will always be together.

    She can improve our relationship by giving me more freedom and not treating me like a baby. She could also stop yelling and calm down some.

By Tarence, 10th Grader

    I have a close relationship with my adoptive mother. To me, for years she was the head of the household. Once my dad retired, she continued to work. Now, she is still active in the home and in my life.

    She helps me with my homework, gives me an allowance and distributes most of the discipline that I need. We talk about everything, laugh together and play with each other. Her advice is pretty good and she protects me.

    My relationship with my adoptive mother is important to me. She is special to me. She takes good care of me even though she is not my biological mother. I love her for this.

By Rani, 7th Grader

    My relationship with my mother is interesting. We get along as long as I don’t talk. She is not as easy to talk to as my father is. I think the problem is that we are both very smart and bright. We are too much alike and we both think we are always right. When I say something that she thinks is wrong, she jumps on me.  Most of the time (like 99 percent of the time) she is right. However, that other 1 percent of the time, I’m right.

    Sometimes, my mother falsely accuses me. When she finds out that I’m innocent, she tries to make it up to me. I’m just sick of it.

    My relationship with her is important to me because I’m going to need someone to lean on later in life. College is tough and I probably will need someone I can really trust. Who would be better to trust than the person that changed my diapers? You know, my relationship with my mother is also important because she is not going to live forever.

    Every time we watch a movie, go to the mall or listen to my kind of music, I end up getting some type of lecture or speech out of it. My mom says it is for my own good. I say that all it is doing is getting on my nerves or putting me to sleep.  Sometimes I feel like she is just wasting her breath because I’m a very good “false” listener. This is really a good skill to have.

    I have learned to sit and gaze into her eyes, tuning her out all the time. During one of her lectures what I will do is think about school or politics. It works like a charm.

    My mother can help improve our relationship by quitting jumping to conclusions. For example, if she sees me cleaning my room she automatically thinks I’m doing it for some sort of reward. More stereotypes, is all it is. Sometimes I clean my room because I want to and out of the goodness of my heart.

By Jordan, 7th Grader

    My relationship with my mother is challenging. I feel like it is getting harder and harder to impress her or to make her happy. Her rules are stricter than my father’s rules, thus I have to behave a certain way around my mother and then a different way in front of my father.

    Sometimes my mother and I have our moments when we argue. I get angry when we argue because I can’t say what I really want to. All of the unspeakable words get held up inside and the situation gets worse. I feel like my relationship with my mother often features arguing.

  The relationship is successful most of the time. We laugh and joke around with each other. I sometimes wonder when we are laughing, if we are going to end up arguing in the next few minutes.

    My relationship with my mother is important because I will need her throughout my life. I look at the relationship that my mother has with her mother. I don’t think they have a good relationship. Over time, they are getting along better.  My mother really does not talk to my grandmother.

    When she needs to talk to someone, she will call her sister or her best friend. The only time she talks to my grandmother is when she needs her to watch me and my brother. I honestly don’t want that type of relationship with my mother.

    I want to be able to call or visit her when I need some “woman to woman” advice. We might have our ups and downs, just as long as we still love each other.

    My mother could improve our relationship by trusting me. She could also listen more and make an effort to understand what I’m trying to say. Like when I try to tell her something from my heart.

    She always has a comment to say about it. I take her comment as being critical of me. I really desire for her to be more of a friend when I need her to be. This request might sound complicated but it is really not that hard to do.

    Right now I feel like I can’t go to her and tell her everything. I really want to learn how to trust her and how to keep her from getting mad at me. It seems like getting angry is mother’s nature. I guess I will just have to get used to it.

By Deonte, 12th Grader

    My mother and I have a great relationship. She is a nice person who understands. Even though it seems like we don’t see each other that often, we have maintained a good relationship. We both love each other unconditionally.

    My relationship with her is important to me because she created me into what I am today. She raised me up until I was 13 years old.

    Our relationship would improve if she were to spend more time with me and be there for me. I don’t want to ask to do these things, I want her to do it on her own will. Our relationship would improve if she were to ask me more questions about who I am and if she made more effort to get to know me.

    I see my step-mom as a second mom. She and I can really have fun together. We also learn a lot about each other and from each other. She teaches me about life. Our relationship has ups and downs. We have our share of little conflicts and we get angry with each other. We have learned to work things out in a positive manner.

    My relationship with her is important to me because she really cares and means what she says. She is a very comfortable person to be around and she is a great listener. She could improve our relationship by being more understanding, living more off facts than opinions and allowing me to express my feelings.

By Aisha, 8th Grader

    My relationship with my mother is loving. We give each other hugs and kisses before we go to bed. We laugh and play together. We go places to talk and just the two of us hang out.  My relationship with my mother is important because I want to share things with her. Since she is a female and has completed school, there are lots of good ideas and information she can give me. When she helps me, I don’t have to worry as much. I really can’t think of ways that my mother can improve our relationship. We are very close. If anything, I’m the one that can do various things to improve our relationship.

By Imani, 8th Grader

    My mother and I have an okay relationship. It could be better. When I’m at home, we always argue. It is kind of surprising as to what we will argue about each day. When I get tired of hearing her argue, I just say, “Okay mom” so that she will stop talking and think that she is right.

    Our relationship is important to me because I want more privileges. I want to be able to do things with my friends. Most importantly, I don’t want to be in trouble all the time. It is important that we get along because I have to live with her until I move out. I have decided to make the best of living with my mother.

She can improve our relationship by listening to me more, trusting me and not caring about stuff that is not necessary.

 

20 Adult “Truths” To Live By

By Recco Santee Richardson, Ph.D., LPC

 

Believe in yourself no matter what.

Opportunity knocks more than once.

Hard work still pays off.

Keep your future plans close to your heart.

Forgive quickly and often.

 

Accept that fear is part of the process.

It’s never too late to say thank you.

Use your words carefully and with purpose.

Do it yourself because help may never come.

Everything you do matters and counts.

 

Trust that you don’t have to trust everyone.

Start where you can, while you can.

What is yours will find its way to you.

There is nothing wrong with apologizing

Save enough energy for the important battles.

 

Failure is not permanent or a crime.

Dreams still do come true.

It is only a problem if you allow it to be.

Imperfections are necessary and to be valued.

At all times, remember what is important.

 

ABLE Program

    The Adolescents for Better Learning Endeavors (ABLE) Program is designed to help school age youth move forward as a result of gaining new skills and competency.

    The goal is for participants to be able to successfully participate within the school setting. The program helps participants improve their academics, social life, emotional maturity and decision-making skills.

ABLE Program Components:

• Individual Counseling
• Family Counseling
• Home Visits
• Crisis Management
• Parenting Workshops
• Incentives & Awards
• Support Groups
• Exciting Fieldtrips

 

LET Program

    Offered by Recco S. Richardson Consulting, Inc., the Licensure Educational Training (LET) Program is an effective supervisory program that targets Limited Licensed Professional Counselors (LLPCs) who need supervision.

    Please contact our office if you are in need of LLPC supervision. The benefits of participation are tremendous and sure to positively impact your life.

    Currently, LET programming is offered in three cities and has regular participants from 10 different counties.

LET Services:

Group Supervision: Monthly gatherings that review caseloads, offer Q/A sessions, discusses trends in the field, secures guest speakers and much more.

Individual Supervision: As requested, informal one-on-one sessions that provide personal attention, intentional brainstorming and insightful strategies.

Communication:  Unlimited monthly communication via phone, email and text.

Other: NCE workshops, counseling residencies, business services support, book club and scholarly writing/research.

Coming LLPC Group Supervision

 

April 2017

For this month, supervision sessions for all cohorts will take place during the Recharge Service Providers“ Self Care”  Conference on Saturday, April 29, 2017 from 8 am to 11:30 am. Make up sessions will be available 1 pm to 5 pm.

 

May 2017

Bay City: Saturday, May 20, 2017 (9 am – 1 pm)

Lansing: Saturday, May 20, 2017 (4 pm – 8 pm)

Flint: Sunday, May 21, 2017 (1 pm – 5 pm).

 

June 2017

Bay City: Saturday, June 17, 2017 (9 am – 1 pm)

Lansing: Saturday, June 17, 2017 (4 pm – 8 pm)

Flint: Sunday, June 18, 2017 (1 pm – 5 pm).

 

Contact Us

Recco S. Richardson Consulting, Inc.

Recco Santee Richardson, Ph.D., LPC

2500 S Linden Road, P.O Box 321252 .. Flint, MI 48532

(810) 394-7815 (Office)  (810) 732-6657 (Fax)

website: richardsonsconsulting.com

email:reccorichardsonphd@gmail.com

 

 

 

January 2017

LET & ABLE News

Licensure Education Training & Adolescents for Better Learning Endeavors Programs

A publication of Recco S. Richardson Consulting, Inc. • Recco Santee Richardson, Ph.D., LPC

Issue 26 … January 2017

Dr. Recco’s Corner

      There are positives and negatives associated with living in America’s capitalist society. As a positive, we have the opportunity to excel, venture out and pursue dreams. This is a God send concept. Likewise, as a negative, we must deal with the presence of competitiveness, policies and social status that is annoying and evil.

    It is capitalism that creates and gives rise to various isms and stereotypes. This leads me to wonder why children from single parent homes are often stereotyped and perceived in some circles, to be a step-down from other homes.  

   Countless single parent home children have recounted to me horror stories about how their friends treat them because of their home life. It is concerning to me how single parent home children (which accounts for upwards of 60 percent of children in some communities and school districts) are subject to negative stereotypes. Any time the majority of a sect of people is stereotyped, eventually types of legalized oppression follows and further suffocates the victims.  

    As health and human services working professionals, it is our responsibility to cry loud against any form of oppression and stereotypes. Are you ready to cry and battle?

Recco

“Two Parents and Single Parent Homes, Life Outcomes of Their Children” 

Recco Santee Richardson, Ph.D., LPC (2016)

Part IV “Building Resiliency in Children Reared In Single Parent Home II

Resilience Frameworks

    Over the past 40 years, resilience research has gone through several stages. From an initial focus on the invulnerable or invincible child, psychologists began to recognize that much of what seems to promote resilience originates outside of the individual. This led to a search for resilience factors at the individual, family, community and cultural levels (Lee, Cheng & Kwong, 2012).

    Contemporary researchers have found that resilience factors vary in different risk contexts and have contributed to the notion that resilience is a process. Research on resilience has been a major theme in developmental psychopathology focusing on the question why some children and adolescents maintain positive adaptation  despite experiences of “distressing life conditions and demanding societal conditions”  such as violence, poverty, stress, trauma, deprivation, and oppression (Lee, Cheng & Kwong, 2012).

    Children from single parent homes experience the stated and are more at-risk than other children to school dropout, illness, lower standardized test scores, substance abuse, shorter life span and incarceration.

    Three waves of research on resilience have been identified and have set the path for the fourth wave which focuses on multilevel analysis and the dynamics of adaptation and change. There is a wide range of theories about the relationships between resilience and positive youth development. 

    There are models and frameworks that help to better understand resilience. As such, it is held that there are three general classes of resilience models/frameworks (compensatory, protective, and challenge) that explain how resilience factors operate to alter the trajectory from risk exposure to negative outcome (Fergus &Zimmerman, 2005).

Compensatory: The compensatory model best explains a situation where a resilience factor counteracts or operates in an opposite direction to a risk factor. The resilience factor has a direct effect on the outcome, one that is independent of the effect of the risk factor. In CIET’s ACYRN-East study, for example, alcohol abstinence or moderation is compensatory in the sense that it is directly and independently associated with lower risk for youth suicide (Anderson & Ledogar, 2008).

Protective: In the protective model, assets or resources moderate or reduce the effects of a risk on a negative outcome. Protective factors may operate in several ways to influence outcomes. They may help to neutralize the effects of risks; they may weaken, but not completely remove them; or they may enhance the positive effect of another protective factor in producing an outcome.

    In the ACYRN-East study (Anderson & Ledogar, 2008), being drug-free, though not directly associated with lower suicide risk, is associated with lower alcohol use and thus is protective in the sense that it enhances the latter’s anti-suicide potential.

Challenge: A third model of resilience is the challenge model. In this model, the association between a risk factor and an outcome is “curvilinear”: exposures to both low and high levels of a risk factor are associated with negative outcomes, but moderate levels of the risk are related to less negative (or positive) outcomes.

    Altering the trajectory and impact of risk and negative outcomes is just what the doctor ordered for children reared in single parent homes. To strengthen children, we must consistently redirect and change the trajectory and bloodline issues that target them.     

    Adolescents exposed to moderate levels of risk, for example, may be confronted with enough of the risk factor to learn how to overcome it but are not exposed to so much of it that overcoming it is impossible.

Risk, Vulnerability & Protective Factors

    With the help of resilience, the majority of children can overcome their initial traumatic life experiences. Types of traumatic experiences include growing up in the home with a mentally ill family member, residing in a divorced or blended family home, being emotionally, physically or sexually abused or having criminally involved parents.

    Not many children escape life without experiencing some type of trauma. It behooves us to ensure that through resilience, quality parenting and proper guidance, a faulty bond with their trauma does not take place

    As stated previously in this four part research writing, the common qualifying condition for resilience, as viewed by most researchers, is the presence of demonstrable, substantial risk facing the individual. Many define risk in terms of statistical probabilities: a high-risk condition being one that carries high odds for maladjustment (Luthar, 2006; Masten, 2001).

    Substantial risk is closely related to vulnerability. Vulnerability can be defined as how prepared a person is for a presented task. Vulnerability can interact with a risk factor so as to intensify one’s reaction to risk (Rutter, 1990; Luthar, 1991, 2006).

    There are many kinds of vulnerabilities including economic, social, environmental and psychological. Indigenous, rural and urban communities often have to deal with their own particular set of vulnerabilities.

    The identification of risk, vulnerability and protective factors is important because risk factors can have a greater effect when occurring together with other risk factors than they do when occurring in isolation (Rutter, 1990; 1999; 2000; Sameroff et al., 1987; Sameroff & Rosenblum, 2006). Protective factors will be discussed later in this writing.

    The identification of vulnerability factors helps to understand, find processes, view causes and identify solutions.

Protective Factors & Children

    The main difference between individuals who adapt very well despite facing risks and individuals who end up in mal-adaptation is the existence of protective factors. In summary, protective factors are internal and external ideas and concepts that can help  individuals negotiate live experiences that have the ability to stymie development, offset growth and deter success.

    Regardless of what type of home they reside in, protective factors are critical and play a major role in the overall development of children. Why? Because protective factors can help children develop, adapt to stressful situations and side-step risk taking behaviors.

    In general, internal protective factors have the ability to promote optimism, perceptions of control, self-efficacy, and active coping skills that are associated with better health. External protective factors help individual’s function socially and maximize their participation in their environment.

     Protective factors can be grouped into four main components (bonding, competence, optimism and environment).

Bonding: Bonding explains a child’s emotional attachment and commitment to parents or caregivers. Healthy and unhealthy bonding can be found in all relationships including peer, coach, love interests and community groups. To promote bonding and attachment with and within children, simply spend quality time with them, explain universal truths to them, practice acceptance and mercy with them, communicate with them about relevant age appropriate topics and give them opportunities to explore and express themselves to and with you. The stated is “Parenting 101” in a nutshell.

Competence: In general competence can be viewed as the by-product of knowledge and intelligence. It is a must for children to have. Specifically, emotional, cognitive, moral, behavioral and social competencies help all children (especially those raised in a single parent home) secure the ability to make good decisions, regulate their emotions, have a proper view of themselves, and get along with others. When the throws of life come, children must have access to reservoirs of competencies so as to overcome and keep moving forward.

Optimism: A jewel in its own right, optimism is the ability to hope against hope. It is the presence of a resilient mindset that embraces the belief that one way or another, things will work out. Optimism has been known to have solid roots in spiritual truths, understanding the meaning of life and possessing a positive sense of self. It has the ability to promote a “future orientation” approach to life that helps children stay focused on a desired goal. Cultural enrichment and exposure to other’s ways of life can help all children experience optimism and future orientations.

Environment: Of all the protective factors, environment tends to have the largest impact on children. It takes dedication, unrelenting effort, a strong sense of self and acceptance to break negative bands created by unhealthy environments. The most common environments that effect children to the positive and negative are home, school and community.

    In closing, in case you missed it, the treatment plan or actions steps necessary for helping children raised in single parent homes achieve and close life outcomes gaps is a process.

    The process includes ensuring that each child secures and maximizes protective factors, bonds with healthy experiences and develops a resilient mindset.

 

RSRC 2nd Annual Recharge Self Care Conference

     Our 2nd Annual Recharge Service Providers Self Care Conference will be held Saturday April 29, 2017 at Covenant Hills Retreat & Camp, Otisville, MI.

     The morning workshop sessions will be held 8 am – 12 noon and the afternoon workshop sessions will be held 2 pm – 5 pm. The cost is $100 for each session.

     A total of four to six interactive and rejuvenating workshops will be offered along with a private practice panel.

ABLE Program

    The Adolescents for Better Learning Endeavors (ABLE) Program is designed to help school age youth move forward as a result of gaining new skills and competency.

The goal is for participants to be able to successfully participate within the school setting.

    The program helps participants improve their academics, social life, emotional maturity and decision making skills.

 

ABLE Program Components:

 

• Individual Counseling
• Family Counseling
• Home Visits
• Crisis Management
• Parenting Workshops
• Incentives & Awards
• Support Groups
• Exciting Fieldtrips

 

Coming RSRC Trainings/Workshops

 

Saturday, February 4, 2017

Topic: “Sweet Lips” Communication Workshop

Time: 11am – 2 pm

Location: Harris Memorial C.O.G.I. C, Flint, MI

Cost: $10 (ages 12 and under) $20 (Adults)

Status: Open to general public

Presenter: Recco Santee Richardson, Ph.D., LPC

 

Wednesday February 8, 2017

Topic: Them, They & Us: Staff Diversity and Unity

Time: 6 pm – 8 pm

Location: Uniquely Created Children’s Center

Cost: None

Status: Open to general public

Presenter: Recco Santee Richardson, Ph.D., LPC

 

Sunday, February 19, 2017

Topic: Emotional Development of Teens & Young Adults

Time: 7 am – 10 am

Location: Genesee Valley Regional Center

Cost: None

Status: Closed to general public

Presenter: Recco Santee Richardson, Ph.D., LPC

 

Tuesday, February 21, 2017

Topic: Emotional Development of Teens & Young Adults

Time: 6 pm – 9 pm

Location: Genesee Valley Regional Center

Cost: None

Status: Closed to general public

Presenter: Recco Santee Richardson, Ph.D., LPC

 

Note: The target audience for the workshops are all parents, day care workers, case managers, counselors, social workers, family advocates, coaches, educators, court family workers, grant writers, youth specialist, interns, volunteers and residential staff.

 

LET Program

    Offered by Recco S. Richardson Consulting, Inc., the Licensure Educational Training (LET) Program is an effective supervisory program that targets Limited Licensed Professional Counselors (LLPCs) who need supervision.

    Currently, LET programming is offered in three cities and has regular participants from 10 different counties

LET Services:

Group Supervision: Monthly gatherings that review caseloads, offer Q/A sessions, discusses trends in the field, secures guest speakers and much more.

Individual Supervision: As requested, informal one-on-one sessions that provide personal attention, intentional brainstorming and insightful strategies.

Communication: Unlimited monthly communication via phone, email and text.

Other: NCE workshops, counseling residencies, business services support, book club and scholarly writing/research.

 

Coming LLPC Group Supervision

 

February 2017

Bay City: Saturday, February 18, 2017 (9 am – 1 pm)

Lansing: Saturday, February 18, 2017 (4 pm – 8 pm)

Flint: Sunday, February 19, 2017 (1 pm – 5 pm)

 

March 2017

Bay City: Saturday, March 18, 2017 (9 am – 1 pm)

Lansing: Saturday, March 18, 2017 (4 pm – 8 pm)

Flint: Sunday, March 19, 2017 (1 pm – 5 pm)

 

Services Offered By RSRC

 

Afterschool Programming • Treatment/Support Groups • Staff Trainings                        Book Writing/Publishing • Entrepreneur Support • Educational Services • Family Counseling • Compliance/Regulation • Post-Adoption Services • Youth Programming School-Based Initiatives • Grant/Proposal Writing • NCE Test Workshops • Educational Fieldtrips • Program Development • Motivational Speaking • Conferences/Retreats        501c(3) Application • LLPC Licensure Supervision

 

Contact Us

                                         

Recco S. Richardson Consulting, Inc.      

Recco Santee Richardson, Ph.D., LPC                                           

2500 S Linden Road, P.O Box 321252 .. Flint, MI 48532                                

(810) 394-7815 (Office)  (810) 732-6657 (Fax)                                  

website: reccorichardsonconsulting.com                                 

email:reccorichardsonphd@gmail.com