Alkira Marriage and Family Therapy

10/17/2025

Truth.

In today's Substack, we challenge persistent myths about ADHD during ADHD Awareness Month.
We explore how ADHD isn't caused by sugar, bad parenting, or too much screen time—it's a real, heritable neurodevelopmental condition affecting 5-7% of children globally. We dive into the science: twin studies showing 70-80% heritability, brain imaging revealing structural differences in the prefrontal cortex and striatum, and genetic studies identifying multiple loci linked to ADHD risk.
We discuss why myths persist (heterogeneity, masking, shifting life demands), the reality that 60-86% of childhood ADHD continues into adulthood, and evidence-based treatments from stimulant medications to behavioral therapies and workplace accommodations. Many people find significant relief through these treatments, with stimulant medications being among the most effective psychiatric interventions known.

ADHD represents brains operating on different rhythms. While these differences can bring creative strengths, effective treatments exist that can dramatically improve daily functioning. This October, we're turning awareness into acceptance, access to care, and support for all types of minds.

🔗https://theunbiasedscipod.substack.com/p/adhd-is-not-a-modern-inventionits

10/17/2025

10/10/2025

One of the most satisfying aspects of my career is joining with a new therapist on their path of growth and professional development. Tina Iacovissi, LMFT-D, CCPT and I worked together for 7 years.
This month, I am so happy to celebrate her next professional step- New Horizons! As I made the hard decision to bring Alkira’s 15 year presence in Rome, NY to an end, Tina became ready to launch.
Congratulations and great success Tina !

(YES, our Alkira staff continue to see clients at East Syracuse location and virtually!)

https://www.newhorizonsmft.com/?fbclid=IwdGRjcANWblJleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHjeXAa2e7Mn-3scJhE8gB-LtQzs0Lh1sgDkz-oxCht4jXVtTMLUaUIznVSf6_aem_cP7Bs3Zl734NLTJhA1Woqw

New Horizons Marriage and Family Therapy. Psychotherapy for adults, couples, teens, and children in Rome, NY. Telehealth therapy throughout New York State.

08/14/2025

Proud to support Empower Parkinson annual conference attendees!

05/01/2025

Summer Abbott and Jill Weldum, along with their families, participated in the 5k walk for Empower Parkinson on Saturday. The event, which drew over 300 participants despite the rain, was well-organized by Upstate PT students and Empower staff and volunteers.

12/12/2024

Registration open! ADHD Parent Support Group meets for 8 weeks online starting 01/15/2025, taught by ADHD certified therapists. $250.00 for the series. Contact Tina (315) 281-9030 or group.alkira@gmail.com for details!

10/10/2024

It is ADHD Awareness Month. Did you know that play therapy is effective for children with many struggles, including ADHD/ADHD type behaviors? This treatment assists with emotional regulation, enhancing decision making, and reducing impulsivity. Contact us through our website for more information! Check out one of our play therapists sharing about play therapy:

Listen to one of our wonderful play therapists, Alyssa Urteaga, LPMFT, share what play therapy is and how children benefit from it.

07/08/2024

Lasting Connection Workshop for Couples
In-Person at East Syracuse !

COURSE TO ENHANCE YOUR RELATIONSHIP – BUILDING A LASTING CONNECTION ONE STEP AT A TIME
Facilitator: Dr. Nicole Asencio, LMFT –
Friday, 7/26 6PM-9PM;
Saturday, 7/27 9AM-5PM
For more information call:
619-356-0185
Early Bird – $495 / After July 14th – $595 [light breakfast included on Saturday]