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Danielle Wallace, LMSW, CTP
Blog
I'm always recommending books and other resources to my clients. This blog is my attempt to make those available to everyone. Plus, I might have some random thoughts I want to share. Enjoy!
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The Importance of Unstructured Summers for Children's Development and Wellbeing
Summer break is often seen as a time for kids to catch up on activities, attend camps, or take extra classes. Yet, highly scheduled summers may be doing more harm than good. Experts argue that children need unstructured summers to thrive both mentally and physically. Free, unscripted time during summer is essential for children’s development and wellbeing. Why Unstructured Time Matters Unstructured time means children have the freedom to choose how they spend their hours with
Danielle Wallace - Therapist
3 min read
Experts agree: Youth athletes need more breaks
Youth sports offer many benefits, from physical fitness to teamwork skills. Yet, the pressure to perform and specialize early often leads young athletes to train intensely without adequate rest. This approach can cause burnout, injuries, and mental health challenges. Scientific research highlights the importance of taking breaks in youth sports to support healthy development and long-term participation. Young athlete taking a break during sports practice Why Breaks Matter for
Danielle Wallace - Therapist
3 min read
Teen Athlete Burnout: Helping Your Child Trade Pressure for Joy
As spring sports seasons kick into high gear, the pressure on teen athletes (and the parents supporting them) can reach a breaking point. Whether it’s the anxiety of a high-stakes track meet or the frustration of a slump on the baseball diamond, we often respond to these challenges by tightening our grip and "performing" harder.
Danielle Wallace - Therapist
3 min read
Why We Root for Underdogs in March Madness: The Psychology Behind Fan Attachment
March Madness captivates millions every year, including 5 in my family! But many of us cheer not for the top seeds, but for the underdogs. Guess what? It's not coincidental, it's psychological. According to James Houle, PhD, a psychologist at Ohio State Wexner Medical Center, people root for lower-seeded teams because they represent hope, fairness, and emotional excitement during the tournament.
Danielle Wallace - Therapist
2 min read
Free Download: Anxiety Visualization Techniques
Anxiety can feel like carrying a heavy, invisible weight that clouds your mind and drains your energy. When worries spiral, it’s easy to get stuck in a cycle of fear and uncertainty. I’ve found that creative visualization techniques offer a practical way to step back from those overwhelming feelings and see them more clearly.
Danielle Wallace - Therapist
3 min read
Free Download: A Comprehensive Guide to Mental Training for Athletes
This guide shares practical mental training techniques that can help you reach peak performance by building self-awareness, confidence, and resilience.
Danielle Wallace - Therapist
2 min read
Free Download: Understanding Trauma Reactions in Children
When a child faces trauma or anxiety, their brain can switch into survival mode (fight, flight, freeze, fawn) without warning.
Danielle Wallace - Therapist
2 min read
Insight Timer: Free Meditation App for Better Sleep
Insight Timer, a free meditation and mental wellness app that can enhance your therapy journey by providing accessible, customizable practices to reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and develop mindfulness habits.
Danielle Wallace - Therapist
2 min read
Unconditional Happiness: A Review of Emotional Clearing by Ruskan
Many people struggle with holding onto negative emotions, often feeling trapped in cycles of self-rejection and emotional suppression. Ruskan’s 1993 (vintage but still relevant) book Emotional Clearing offers a thoughtful and practical approach to breaking free from these patterns. It guides you toward emotional integration and unconditional happiness by teaching you how to face and release uncomfortable feelings without judgment or self-criticism . Understanding Emotional M
Danielle Wallace - Therapist
2 min read
Good Inside Book Review and Practical Parenting Tips for Modern Families
Many parents struggle with balancing discipline, empathy, and understanding their children's emotional needs. The book Good Inside by Dr. Becky Kennedy can transform how parents view their children and themselves.
Danielle Wallace - Therapist
4 min read
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