Blog
The Purpose of Our Emotions: Why Every Feeling Matters
By Tracy Brown, LCSW and volunteer with the Guidance Center Emotions often get a bad rap. Many people were taught in childhood, either explicitly or implicitly, that experiencing strong emotions is a weakness or something to suppress. Have you ever been told to “just...
Is it more than the winter blues?
With the holiday season behind us and less festive days ahead, it’s common to experience the winter blues; a temporary dip in energy and emotion brought on by the shorter days and lack of sunlight. While some level of winter blues isn’t unusual, for some people, the...
From Sensory Rooms to Art Therapy: How the Guidance Center Calms and Connects with Kids
By Alissa Striano, a volunteer at North Shore Child & Family Guidance Center As a volunteer at North Shore Child & Family Guidance Center and as a yoga and Pilates instructor, I’ve always been fascinated by the mind-body connection. In my work, I see firsthand...
Can AI Be a Therapist?
A Conversation with Clinical Director Denise Ingenito By Alissa Striano Over the past few years, AI has made its way into almost every part of our lives—including mental health. With feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression on the rise, especially among teens,...
Bell-to-Bell: What the New Cell Phone Ban Means for Kids, Parents, and Schools
By Alissa Striano A New Rule for Schools This fall, schools across Nassau County and throughout New York State will look a little different. In April, lawmakers passed a law requiring schools to keep phones away from students during the entire school day. To meet this...
Parenting Plus: Family Dynamics on Vacation
By Denise Ingenito, LCSW, Director of Clinical Services at North Shore Child & Family Guidance Center Originally Published in Schneps Media on July 25 Summer brings endless possibilities, whether it’s basking at the beach, riding roller coasters… or fighting with...
Ask the Experts: The Impact of ICE
Originally Published in Schneps Media on July 18, 2025 In this monthly column, therapists from North Shore Child & Family Guidance Center answer your questions on issues related to parenting, mental health, and children’s well-being. To submit a question, email...
Long Island Business Influencers – Dynamic Women Leaders 2025 Kathy Rivera
Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of North Shore Child & Family Guidance Center Kathy Rivera is executive director and chief executive officer of North Shore Child & Family Guidance Center, Long Island’s premier children’s mental health...






















