impact – Stepping Stones Center

October 8, 2026· Occupational Therapy

The Quiet Impact: Redefining Occupational Therapy as the Ultimate Difference Maker in Patient Care

The role of an occupational therapist (OT) within a multidisciplinary healthcare team is often misunderstood, even by other medical professionals. While doctors, nurses, and surgeons focus on the physiological management of disease and the stabilization of life-critical functions, the OT’s mandate is arguably more personal: they are tasked with restoring the patient’s ability to interact…

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October 6, 2026· Behavioral Health

New Study Explores Gaslighting in Parent-Child Relationships and Its Impact on Adolescents

Gaslighting, long recognized as a damaging form of psychological abuse and manipulation, typically involves one person systematically casting doubt on another’s sense of reality, memories, and emotions. While the concept was first identified decades ago, widespread public interest and empirical research into the phenomenon are relatively recent. Today, the scientific study of gaslighting is expanding…

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October 5, 2026· Occupational Therapy

The Growing Necessity and Impact of Occupational Therapy for the Aging Population

For many professionals in the field, choosing to specialize in geriatric occupational therapy is more than just a career move; it is a commitment to one of the most rewarding and impactful areas of healthcare. As the demographic landscape of the United States and the world shifts, the role of occupational therapists (OTs) in supporting…

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October 4, 2026· Mental Health and Psychology

The Hidden Crisis: Parental Burnout and Its Impact on High-Risk Families

Becoming a parent is widely celebrated as one of life’s most profound and rewarding milestones. It is a period characterized by deep emotional connection, growth, and the anticipation of a bright future. However, for many, the reality of modern parenthood is a jarring departure from this idealized vision. Beyond the exhaustion of late-night feedings and…

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October 3, 2026· Behavioral Health

The Lasting Impact of Parental Words: How Criticism and Praise Shape Child Development and Self-Esteem

It should come as little surprise to developmental psychologists, educators, and parents alike that constant criticism can deeply undermine a child’s sense of self-worth. In the delicate ecosystem of family life, parents may not always realize just how powerful their daily words are in shaping a growing child’s identity and psychological foundation. When caregivers establish…

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September 25, 2026· Child Welfare and Advocacy

CDF-Texas, The Immigrant Services Network of Austin to Host ‘Free Families’ Event to Address ICE’s Impact on Local Families

AUSTIN, TX — As immigration enforcement continues to shape the daily reality of families across Central Texas, local advocacy groups are stepping forward to foster dialogue, community resilience, and direct action. On Thursday, September 10, 2026, the Children’s Defense Fund-Texas (CDF-TX) and The Immigrant Services Network of Austin (ISNA) are joining forces to host a…

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September 20, 2026· Sensory Processing

Empowering Children Through Emotional Regulation: The Impact of "The Size of the Problem" Approach

WASHINGTON — Educators, therapists, and parents are increasingly turning to a social-emotional learning concept known as "The Size of the Problem" to help children navigate daily challenges, build resilience, and develop critical executive functioning skills. Designed to bridge the gap between emotional responses and actual situations, the strategy teaches children to evaluate the magnitude of…

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