Teens: Why Becoming An Esports Athlete Is A Bad Idea

by Nathan Driskell, MA, LPC | Mar 27, 2017 | Gaming Addiction

Millions in prize money makes the esports dream dazzling — but for the vast majority of teens chasing it, the real story is dropped schooling, no backup plan, and a gaming habit dressed up as a career. Original Publication Date: March 27, 2017 The alarm clock rings,...

5 Ways to Reduce Electronics Addiction During the Summer

by Nathan Driskell, MA, LPC | Jun 3, 2016 | Internet Addiction

When summer frees up 12-16 hours a day, screens rush to fill them — here are five practical ways parents can curb a child’s slide toward electronics addiction, starting at home. Summer is here, and it is time for many children to binge on electronics for 12-16...

Treating Autism: Part 4 – Environmental Considerations

by Nathan Driskell, MA, LPC | May 31, 2016 | Autism

The final part of the autism treatment series: how to build a calm, low-stimulation space where an overstimulated child can finally focus and learn — and how to grow beyond it over time. In the last article of this series, joining and repetitive actions were...

Autism & Gaming: How Obsessions Lead to Addiction

by Nathan Driskell, MA, LPC | May 16, 2016 | Autism

For autistic minds, an intense interest can slide into full addiction faster than for anyone else — and gaming, built on control and escape, is the perfect trap. The other day, I was reading an article discussing the negative impact gaming can have on people with...

Is Gaming Addiction Real?

by Nathan Driskell, MA, LPC | May 12, 2016 | Gaming Addiction

A therapist who once lost six years to a 10-14-hour-a-day gaming habit answers the question directly: yes, gaming addiction is real — and most people who have it don’t realize it. While growing up, I was what you would call a “video game nerd.” I...