What do elephants, wolves, bears, chimpanzees, and even house cats have in common with healthy human parenting?

In this episode, therapist Erin examines the surprising ways animals prepare their young for independence—and how those same principles can help us become better parents. From secure attachment and emotional regulation to play, boundaries, and gradually increasing responsibility, nature offers some remarkable lessons about raising capable, confident children.

The species may differ, but the goal is often the same: helping the next generation learn to thrive without us.

For related articles and resources, please visit www.directionbehavioralhealth.com.

A common parental complaint is, “I’ve lost control of my child.” But what if control was never the goal?

In this episode, I explore the difference between controlling a child’s behavior and earning the kind of authority that creates lasting influence. I talk about how power naturally fades as children grow, why control battles are counterproductive, and how the parents who have the greatest impact over time are those who earn their children’s respect rather than demand their obedience.

Through the lens of the Direction Leadership Principles, this episode offers a different way to think about discipline, influence, and what it means to lead your family well.

For related articles and resources, please visit www.directionbehavioralhealth.com.

“Doctor, if this were your child, would you prescribe medication?”

In this episode, I talk about my approach to one of the most important decisions families face. Rather than viewing medication as inherently good or bad, I explain why every treatment decision comes down to weighing risks, benefits, and how much a child’s symptoms are interfering with their ability to function and thrive.

I discuss the role of therapy, parenting, lifestyle changes, and medication, why psychiatric medications can be both life-changing and life-saving when used appropriately, and why they should never distract from the larger goal of helping children grow into healthy, capable, independent adults.

Whether you’re considering medication for your child or simply want to better understand how an experienced child psychiatrist thinks through these decisions, this episode offers a thoughtful framework for approaching one of parenting’s most challenging questions.

For related articles and resources, please visit www.directionbehavioralhealth.com.