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Suicide Prevention Week – Time To Talk Away The Dark
Suicide Prevention Week, observed in the second week of September, provides a platform for communities, organizations, and individuals to come together and address this critical issue. It serves as a reminder that every life is precious and that we all play a role in...
Long Beach Gives 2023
The Guidance Center is thrilled to participate in the online giving event, Long Beach Gives, joining over 230 inspiring nonprofit organizations on a mission to make a difference! Set for Thursday, September 21, 2023, this citywide movement is a 24-hour day dedicated...
Back-to-School Bonding: 7 Ideas to Strengthen Family Connections
As the hustle and bustle of schedules and routines fill our days, it's easy for family time to take a backseat. However, it's crucial to find ways to maintain strong connections and make lasting memories even during this busy period. In today’s blog, we share seven...
Update from The Whole Child Program: Expanded Mental Health Service Helps Children with Diabetes Reduce Distress
The Whole Child Program at The Guidance Center is dedicated to improving the psychological, behavioral, emotional and social well-being of children, adolescents and young adults with chronic health conditions, medical complexity and special health care needs. The...
Back To School Resource Guide
It’s that time of the year again! At The Guidance Center, we understand the mix of excitement and apprehension that children, parents and educators experience at the start of a new school year. As you get ready to head back to the classroom, it's important to...
Celebrating National Nonprofit Day!
As National Nonprofit Day approaches on August 17th, it's the perfect time to celebrate the incredible nonprofit organizations that serve our community. Every year in September, a remarkable initiative known as "Long Beach Gives" takes place. Join us as we explore how...
School Crisis Response Program Update
The School Crisis Response Clinician program was first established to expand understanding of the inequities that our communities face every day and to facilitate action towards positive change at a school district level. In partnership with the Long Beach Unified...
Disability Pride Month – Making The Invisible Visible
In July, we celebrate Disability Pride Month, which commemorates the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The ADA provides civil rights protection for the disabled and prohibits discrimination based on a disability, hidden or visible. Approximately 26% of...
7 Simple Tips To Reduce Your Child’s Screen Time This Summer
In this digital age, screens have become an integral part of our lives, providing us with endless information and entertainment. However, excessive screen time can have unforeseen consequences on a child's mental health. During these summer months, it’s vital to...
Educational Activities To Keep Children Mentally Stimulated All Summer!
Looking for fun ways to keep your children mentally stimulated this summer? Head over to our TeachersPayTeachers page to find useful educational resources created by our Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee! Connection Bingo Children can work on...
Minority Mental Health Month: A Path To Equity – Access and Use of Psychotropic Medications
In recognition of Minority Mental Health Month, Christina Zavalza, PsyD, Pediatric Psychologist and Clinical Supervisor at The Guidance Center, sheds light on the unique challenges faced by minority communities and advocates for inclusive mental healthcare. The mental...
Time Marches On – It’s About T.I.M.E. Year 8 Update
After four years at Barton Elementary School and three years at Lakewood High School, the It’s About T.I.M.E. program is transitioning to two new schools, leaving Barton and Lakewood in competent and sustainable hands of their respective staff. All the while,...
Mindful Movements – Yoga’s Transformational Power!
When we think of mindfulness, many of us think of closing our eyes, being still or sitting cross legged on the floor. While mindfulness can definitely look like that, for many the practice of sitting with their thoughts and feelings can be difficult. For those that...
The Guidance Center Celebrates Juneteenth – Events Happening Near You!
Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, holds profound significance in American history. It marks the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight for equality and justice. It's a time to reflect on the history of the Black...
Nurturing a Child’s Well-Being Through Nature
As the beginning of summer is right around the corner, it's the perfect time to engage children in the joys of gardening and spending time outdoors. Beyond the beauty and fun, these activities provide invaluable opportunities for children to connect with nature,...
The Guidance Center Celebrates PRIDE!
PRIDE Month is here! Throughout June, people around the world unite to honor and amplify the voices of the LGBTQ+ community. Pride Month is not merely a celebration; it holds deep historical significance. It traces its roots back to the Stonewall Riots of 1969 when...
Meet Angelina – Chief Clinical Officer of The Guidance Center
We are thrilled to announce Angelina Palma-Williams, LCSW, as our new Chief Clinical Officer! With her impressive background, unwavering dedication, and passion for driving diversity and inclusion, we are so excited for her to join the executive team. Angelina’s...
Finding A Path Through Trauma
In observance of Mental Health Awareness Month, also known as Trauma Awareness Month, Nathan Swaringen, LCSW, Clinical Therapist at The Guidance Center explores the nature of trauma, its profound impact on individuals, and the path towards healing and resilience in...
Sunset Sip 2023: Ignite Your Light
“Give light and people will find the way.” - Ella Baker On an illuminating evening on May 6th at Old Ranch Country Club, more than 170 guests gathered to honor The Guidance Center and celebrate our organization, staff, and clients. Sponsors and guests helped...
Sunset Sip 2023: Ignite Your Light – Meet Maria!
The theme for Sunset Sip 2023 is Ignite Your Light! In a physical sense, light helps guide us and interpret the world around us. Street lights guide us on our journeys, illuminating a safe route. A porch light may guide a child back to their home. Symbolically, light...