Parents Coming to Terms with the mental health Diagnosis
February 2, 2024

The moment a child receives a mental health diagnosis can be earth-shattering for parents. A whirlwind of emotions – fear, guilt, sadness, and uncertainty – can consume even the strongest of souls. Yet, amidst the chaos, lies an opportunity for growth, healing, and unwavering love. Accepting a child's mental health condition is a journey, one that demands patience, resilience, and an open heart.


In those initial moments after the diagnosis, it's natural to feel overwhelmed, even paralyzed by the weight of it all. Questions race through the mind: "What does this mean for their future?" "How will this impact our family?" "Where do we go from here?" These doubts and worries are valid, reflecting the depth of a parent's love and concern for their child's well-being.


However, it's crucial to remember that a diagnosis is not a life sentence; it's a starting point, a road map that can guide families towards a better understanding and the resources they need to support their child's unique needs. Embracing the diagnosis, though challenging, can open doors to a world of support, empowerment, and hope.


The path forward may seem daunting, but parents need not walk it alone. Organizations like NAMI and Mental Health America offer a wealth of educational materials, support groups, and guidance to help families navigate this new terrain. By connecting with others who have walked a similar path, parents can find solace, wisdom, and a sense of community that can be invaluable in the healing process.


As parents embark on this journey, it's essential to practice self-compassion. Feelings of guilt, anger, and even denial are natural reactions, but they do not define the unwavering love that exists between parent and child. Seeking professional support, whether through therapy or counseling, can provide a safe space to process these emotions and develop healthy coping mechanisms.


Ultimately, coming to terms with a child's mental health diagnosis is a testament to the strength of the family bond. It's an opportunity to redefine what it means to be a parent, to embrace vulnerability and growth, and to create an environment where a child can thrive despite their challenges. With time, patience, and the right support systems in place, families can emerge from this journey more resilient, more empowered, and more deeply connected than ever before.

Meet our Counselor, Christine Glasper!

By MINDgarden • September 2, 2025
Hello, Marhaba! My name is Christine Glasper. I have been a school counselor for 15 years, a private therapist for 9 years and an administrator for 8 years. I am a wife and a mother of 3 beautiful kids. A counselor deeply impacted my life in middle school and my love for working with school age kiddos and young adults was born. Over time that has developed into a drive to open doors of opportunity for my students, to provide a safe space to explore oneself and make life improvements to my clients, and to support teachers, parents and the community at large in our collective efforts to make the world a better place. I am a huge believer in “teamwork makes the dream work”, “be[ing] the change you wish to see”, the Serenity prayer and the golden rule. I’m blessed and thankful to be working with MINDgarden and the Kalasho Education and Youth Services because there are so many mission aligned people here; and only great things can happen when you put a lot of good people together in one place. I look forward to meeting you, dear reader. Have a good day!

Meet our Therapist, Sabika Sheikh!

By MINDgarden • August 31, 2025
Hi, My name is Sabika Sheikh. I am a Counseling Psychology Therapist, offering mental health counseling services at Kalasho Education & Youth services. I’ve always believed that healing isn't just about talking through challenges, it’s also about finding joy, connection, and moments of lightness, even during difficult times. Over the years, working with clients facing cancer, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship struggles, and children navigating big emotions, I’ve seen how powerful recreational activities can be in the healing process. What excites me most about MINDgarden’s setting, is the chance to blend my counseling back ground with opportunities for people to express themselves, build confidence, and rediscover happiness in safe and creative ways. Whether it's through group activities, art, play, or simply encouraging someone to try something new, I love creating spaces where people can feel sup ported while also experiencing joy. This work is a natural fit for me because I genuinely enjoy helping others not only process their challenges but also celebrate their strengths. I am honored to bring both my heart and my skills to MINDgarden!