Staff, APPS

Dr. Mike, My wife (49 years old) and I have been married for 24 years, and we have three great kids and a great relationship.  She was beautiful when I met her, and I think she's even more beautiful today. The problem is, she doesn't seem to think so. Over the past 7 years, she's become obsessed (and I don't use that word lightly) with her appearance.  She's done cosmetic surgery on her neck because she said her "jowls hung," the area around her eyes and forehead because she said she “frowned and looked angry all the time." She also [...]

Let’s Make 2025 A Winning Year Through Humility and Kindness! Humility comes from the Latin word humilis, which literally means low. But as a virtue, humility is often misperceived as being something that is undesirable or unattainable. How is appearing small or insignificant or worthless in relation to others an attractive quality? To the contrary, truly humble people are strong in that they possess the capacity to deflect self-importance in the service of others or a greater good. Jesus, Mother Theresa, Gandhi and Buddha are exemplars and ultimate definitions of humility. But for most of us, figuring out how, when and [...]

Family Gatherings During The Holiday Season:  The Pros, The Cons, Some Practical Tips And Some Things To Avoid The holiday season is often seen as a time to reconnect with family and to celebrate traditions. However, family gatherings can also bring challenges. For some, these moments are opportunities to create joyful memories; for others, they may feel like navigating a social minefield. Understanding the pros and cons of holiday get-togethers, along with actionable strategies for managing potential pitfalls, can help you make the most of your family time. The Pros Strengthening Bonds.  The holidays provide a natural opportunity to deepen [...]

Dr. Mike, Our 18-year-old daughter went off to JMU for Freshman year this Fall, and we’re so proud of her.  She’s doing well academically and socially, but she’s upset with us for being “controlling” and for “micromanaging” her.  My husband and I told her that we would be keeping Life360 on her phone to monitor her whereabouts on campus for her first year away.  We told her that if she demonstrated maturity in making good choices, and if she gets good grades, we will then remove ourselves from Life360 for her Sophomore year and after.  She’s always been a great [...]