Today, I interview Nicole Beurkens, PhD on Beyond Medication: effective solutions for developmental and mental health challenges. Dr. Beurkens is a unique combination of psychologist, nutritionist, and special education teacher. including attention, anxiety, mood, and behavior symptoms in children.
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For the past 20 years, my guest, Nicole Beurkens, PhD has evaluated and treated a wide range of learning, mood, and behavior challenges including autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders, brain injury, and other neurodevelopmental conditions. She holds a doctorate in Clinical Psychology, masters degrees in Special Education and Nutrition, and is a Board Certified Nutrition Specialist.
Dr. Nicole is the Founder and Director of Horizons Developmental Resource Center in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where she and her team specialize in non-medication approaches to treatment for children and young adults. She is also the best-selling author of Life Will Get Better
During this interview you will learn:
- Why she feels it is so important for parents to explore treatment options beyond medication?
- What are the most common underlying issues that cause attention, anxiety, mood, and behavior challenges in children?
- What are some of the nutritional issues she sees in these children, and what kinds of approaches can parents take to address them?
- Which mineral deficiencies impact mood and behavior?
- How sleep impacts symptoms in these children? (Hint: 25-40% of kids with ADHD have an undiagnosed sleep problem!)
- How does movement (physical activity) play a role in these kinds of challenges?
- What/who do you think is the most important resource for a child with these kinds of challenges?
THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!
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