134. Healthy Kids, Happy Parents with Dr. Nicole Beurkens

Holistic Approach

Dr. Nicole Beurkens explains that traditional mental health approaches often focus on symptoms rather than root causes. She advocates for a holistic approach that examines underlying physiological issues to effectively treat mental health problems. Nicole shares her journey from traditional psychology to holistic practices, highlighting the need for comprehensive care.

So much of what is done for kids and for adults in the realm of mental health is really just symptom focused. And if we're going to just put band aids on things, I mean, you can get some improvement, but you really need to get to the root of it.

--- Nicole Beurkens

Her practice involves evaluating various aspects of a child's life, including their health history, to create effective treatment plans 1 2.

   

Mind-Body Connection

Nicole emphasizes the interconnectedness of the brain and body, a concept often overlooked in traditional psychology. She notes that many mental health issues in children have physiological roots, such as chronic ear infections or poor sleep, which need to be addressed for effective treatment.

The brain and the body are completely interconnected. But that's really how, you know, most of us have been trained.

--- Nicole Beurkens

Her holistic approach integrates physical health, lifestyle, and mental health to provide comprehensive care for children 3.

   

Parental Support

Parents play a crucial role in supporting their children's mental and physical health. Nicole discusses the importance of empathy and understanding in parenting, emphasizing that children’s behavioral issues often have underlying causes that need to be explored.

It's really important for parents to be partnering with a professional, with a coach, with someone who can give them feedback and tools to manage that, because it's not easy.

--- Nicole Beurkens

She encourages parents to seek professional help to better understand and address their children's needs 4 5.

   

Dysregulation

Understanding dysregulation is key to helping children manage their emotions and behaviors. Nicole explains that dysregulation occurs when a child's response is not aligned with the situation, and parents can help by co-regulating with their children.

The primary way that we help kids develop better regulation and self-regulation is by doing something called co-regulating with them.

--- Nicole Beurkens

This involves parents responding in a calm, regulated manner to help their children learn to manage their own responses 6.