Hillside Blog - Gaan Akers, LPC, NCC

How to Help Kids Regulate Their Emotions

By Gaan Akers, LPC, NCC / March 6, 2025

Is your child unable to control their emotions? As children get older, the expectation for them to control their emotions and behaviors grows. This ability…

Mental Health in the Digital Age: Navigating Mental Health Care

By Gaan Akers, LPC, NCC / November 14, 2024

This interview between Titiana Jordan and Gaan Akers focuses on the complexities of accessing mental health care in today’s digital landscape. It offers guidance on…

Why It’s Hard to Talk about Suicide (And Why We Need To)

By Gaan Akers, LPC, NCC / August 21, 2024

Suicide poses a significant threat to adolescents, with a staggering 20% of high school students having serious thoughts about suicide. Unfortunately, many of these hidden…

Talking to Kids about Suicide: A Step-by-Step Guide

By Gaan Akers, LPC, NCC / August 14, 2024

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention indicates that 49,476 people died by suicide, yet 94% of adults think we can prevent many of these cases. …

What to Do When Your Child Is Suicidal: A Complete Guide

By Gaan Akers, LPC, NCC / July 12, 2024

Many adolescents grapple with suicidal thoughts, and parenting a suicidal child can be overwhelming. Fear and uncertainty are natural responses when confronted with this harsh…

How to Help When Adolescents Have Suicidal Thoughts

By Gaan Akers, LPC, NCC / May 14, 2024

The adolescent years are full of milestones and changes, and not all of them are easy. Between navigating school and familial obligations and developing their…

Bullying and Suicide: Their Connection (And How to Prevent It)

By Gaan Akers, LPC, NCC / May 7, 2024

Bullying comes in many shapes and forms, including physical contact, words, actions or other kinds of aggressive behavior. It is often directly or indirectly targeted…

Questions to Ask When Looking for a PHP/IOP Program for Your Teen

By Gaan Akers, LPC, NCC / January 30, 2024

Your child’s mental health is extremely important. Do not be shy about asking questions about any treatment program you are considering for your teen. Any…

Top Reasons Teens Don’t Receive Treatment

By Gaan Akers, LPC, NCC / January 29, 2024

Teenagers face many challenges, and one of the most significant obstacles is managing their mental health, including seeking help for conditions like anxiety and depression.…

Suicide Rate by Gender: Is There a Difference?

By Gaan Akers, LPC, NCC / December 7, 2023

Gender and suicide rates have an important correlation that can place some youth at an increased risk. Understanding suicide in girls, boys, transgender individuals and…