Written by Dr. John Carosso Focus in Treatment? Children with mild autism are treated with a very specific approach that involves clearly delineating the problem behaviors and tendencies. In that respect, we need as much detailed information about what goes wrong, and what goes well, in what situations, to what extent, for how long, and […]

Written by Dr. John Carosso Let’s set the stage The process of diagnosing autism is rather straightforward, such that it’s a wonder that so many kids are misdiagnosed. It may come as a surprise to you that, from my clinical experience, the issue is under, not over-diagnosis. In that respect, time and time again I […]

Written by Dr. John Carosso You get into an argument with your spouse. You know your point is valid but you’re having trouble getting your mate to acknowledge your view; instead, he just wants to “move on” and “forget about it.” So, he tries to change the subject and you’re left feeling unheard and misunderstood. […]

Written by Dr. John Carosso The change of season blues How many of you can relate to the dismay of darkness settling-in as early as 5:00 pm? I know it gets me down in the dumps. For some, however, it’s more than just feeling somewhat ‘blue’ in mood; some struggle with severe bouts of depression […]

During this very special time of year, in what has become a tradition, I am happy to re-post this special Christmas message. Here's wishing you and your kiddos a wonderful and blessed Christmas Holiday. What I’m expected to do… As a psychologist, I’m expected to talk about traditional and clinically-relevant approaches to help kids, and […]

Written by Dr. John Carosso Good Tidings… The Christmas and New Years Holiday really is magical and fun; a wonderful time of year that spreads warm feelings and cheer in families and communities throughout the world. The celebration is well deserved, and we all tend to look forward to this very special time of year. […]

Written by Dr. John Carosso What are the keys to teenage success? There are lots of considerations, but the primary key is keeping your teen busy and on a regular schedule. You know the saying, "idle hands are the devil’s workshop." That’s as true for teens as for adults. If teens have too much downtime, […]

Written by Dr. John Carosso Recent article in the paper Mr. John Rosemond, a psychologist who writes a syndicated article in the local paper, is increasingly driving me nuts, and he’s at it again. You may have seen his recent article in the Trib; he writes that children diagnosed mildly on the autism spectrum are […]

Written by Dr. John Carosso I decided to re-post this post because, as of late, this issue has repeatedly been broached during my talks with parents. I hope you find this to be helpful. Taking away video-games (or TV, or a toy…) doesn’t work? Say it ain’t so! Sorry to be the bearer of bad […]

Written by Dr. John Carosso Does this lighten the mood for you? A man speaks frantically into the phone, "My wife is pregnant, and her contractions are only two minutes apart!" "Is this her first child?" the doctor queries. "No, you idiot!" the man shouts. "This is her *husband*!" How about this one: Two kids […]