Parenting Help

If you’ve ever been told your child “needs an evaluation,” you’re not alone. In this episode of the Parenting Help Podcast, Dr. Katie Palmer interviews Dr. Doug Fagen, a clinical psychologist with over 25 years of experience conducting psychoeducational evaluations for children with learning disabilities, ADHD, autism, and anxiety.
Together, they clarify the difference between a neuropsychological evaluation and a psychoeducational assessment, discuss how to interpret results, and explain what parents can do with recommendations. Dr. Fagen emphasizes strength-based, neurodiversity-affirming assessments that help families understand their child’s learning style—not just apply a label.
Key takeaways for parents:
• Learn when and why to request an evaluation
• Understand the role of school psychologists vs. independent evaluators
• Discover how to turn test data into a roadmap for growth
• Reduce stigma and replace self-blame with empowerment
Whether you’re navigating IEPs, 504 plans, or seeking private evaluations, this conversation offers practical and compassionate guidance for families.

This week on the Parenting Help Podcast, we’re honored to host Dr. Lisa Pion-Berlin, CEO of Parents Anonymous and an esteemed expert in family strengthening and parent advocacy.
In this episode, Dr. Pion-Berlin shares:
How to access evidence-based approaches to fostering stronger family connections
The transformative role of Parents Anonymous in empowering caregivers
Practical strategies for navigating complex parenting challenges
Drawing on decades of research and experience, Dr. Pion-Berlin offers valuable perspectives for parents, educators, and professionals invested in family well-being.

Dr. Eli Lebowitz joins us to share how the parent focused treatment program results in the reduction of symptoms of anxiety in their children.

Join Jaclyn Pederson, CEO of Feeding Matters, as she shares expert advice on pediatric feeding disorders (PFD). Learn when to seek medical help, find community support for families, and discover self-care strategies to support your child’s health and well-being. Perfect for parents navigating the challenges of PFD.

Adolescent mental illness is extraordinarily hard on all members of the family, especially if others have not yet worked through their own challenges, trauma, or patterns of maladaptive behavior in the presence of big emotions.
Tracey Yokas shares her family's story in the book Bloodlines.
On our podcast we talk about what she had to do as a Mom, wife, and individual to understand and begin to heal her own trauma before she could really help her daughter.