Counseling Suggestions

R., while you may also want to explore counseling, a GREAT resource for parents/teachers of "challenging" kids is Kirk Martin of Celebrate Calm. The website is: www.celebratecalm.com

He offers frequent FREE presentations in local schools & churches on how to create a calm environment when dealing with kids that don't make it easy to stay calm. He does it in a funny, helpful manner. He is presenting tomorrow night at 7pm (Thursday 1/19/12) and Friday morning in Aurora. It's a bit of a drive for you, but I can guarantee you will learn some great new tactics for yourself and your family!! You won't regret the time spent...and it's all free. He does talk about his CDs for sale, but he really doesn't push them hard nor make you feel guilty about not purchasing them. Go his website for location/direction info.

I've seen his presentation 3 times. Many of my friends have purchased his CDs and love them. His company/website was originally recommended to the parents' group from the school social worker.
Best of luck!

There should be a number you can call for Blue Cross and ask them for a referal in your area. Once they give you the name of someone, Google that Dr. and see what is out there.
The first 19 words of your post... I feel ya! Good luck

I certainly commend you on the decision to be proactive and seek out counseling to better understand and cope with these issues. I have been a therapist for 9 years and know that your motivtion is a very strong indicator for success in change. I often give out referrals in my job and here are a few therapists that are excellent in your area and may be of help to you:

R. Cull, LMFT, PsyD.
300 W. Adams
Chicago, IL
###-###-#### x.6

or

Laurie Maringer, LCSW
8 S. Michigan Ave. #1810
Chicago, IL
###-###-####

Both are excellent and I believe they both take BCBS PPO. Good Luck!

Since this is about your 8 year old I would say find a parenting class instead. See if there is a "Love and Logic" in your area. They will teach you how to deal with your child without anger. That is their main thing! What you learn in that class I believe will help not only with your child but with all relationships.

Just a note: Could your impatience be related to PMS. Check yourself to see if the anger issue is worst during this time. If yes, I would still take the Love and Logic class, but I would deal with the PMS as well.

Perhaps your "galactically stubborn, argumentative 8yo" is mimicking your "frustration and anger"?

Ask Blue cross Blue Shield. there is usually an allowance for a certain amount of visits. It may have to be recommended through your primary care physician.