Mentally STRONG Academy: Embrace the Journey
About Dr. B
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D., PMHNP has been a psychiatric nurse practitioner since 2000, gaining extensive experience over the last several decades. Her medical career began as an Army Medic before attending nursing school and receiving a master’s degree as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Florida International University (FIU). She went on to receive a doctorate in Education at Nova Southeastern University. From there, she launched the first Mentally STRONG Clinic in Colorado Springs, CO which is committed to access and serves over 7,000 patients. She also founded the Mentally STRONG Academy. Today, when she’s not at the clinic attending to her patients, Dr. B dedicates a large portion of her time to speaking about mental health issues, sharing methods for processing grief, and providing tips for developing mental strength.
Mentally STRONG Academy: Embrace the Journey
Strengthening Families: Expert Insights on Child Mental Health and Family Systems with Laura Olson
Parenting is a journey full of challenges, especially when a child's mental health is involved. In this episode, we gain valuable insights from Laura Olson, owner of Pelmy Child and Family Specialists, as she shares her expertise on navigating the complexities of family systems and supporting children's mental well-being.
Topic Highlights:
- Understanding Family Systems: (01:30) Learn how a child's mental health affects the entire family dynamic and how to address the system as a whole, not just the identified patient.
- Trauma and Its Ripple Effects: (02:40) Explore the various forms of trauma and their impact on children, siblings, and parents, including the unique challenges faced by adoptive families.
- The Power of Attachment: (16:50) Discover the critical role of attachment in child development and its connection to self-regulation, self-worth, and healthy relationships.
- Navigating Manipulation and Setting Boundaries: (07:00) Learn effective strategies for addressing manipulative behaviors while prioritizing mental health concerns and fostering a safe and supportive environment.
- The Importance of Connection and Influence: (19:30) Understand that parenting is more about influence than control and how building strong relationships can empower children to make healthy choices.
- Parenting with Grace: (04:10) Embrace the learning process of parenting and find solace in the fact that you're not alone in this journey.
Whether you're a parent seeking guidance or a professional working with families, this episode offers invaluable insights and tools for supporting child mental health and strengthening the family unit.
Visit Palame's website or contact them directly for information on their services, including individual, group, and family therapy, in-home services, parenting classes, and more.