Meet Sharon Artz, PsyD (NJ License #6412)
I specialize in working with parents who are raising children with special needs and/or intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). I understand the stressors and am committed to providing support so you can address complex emotions, strategize day-to-day issues and plan for the future.
As a therapist, my goal is to help you manage your feelings while also learning practical information, such as advocacy and applying for government benefits.
Parents of children with intellectual/developmental disabilities need emotional and practical support.
Parents raising children who have special needs and/or disabilities require support to address an array of emotional and practical issues. I provide a safe, nonjudgemental space for you to acknowledge the magnitude of your emotional experience, with all the highs and lows. Recognition of your emotional depth provides strength and fortification for the rigor of being a special needs parent.
Just as important, parents need concrete information to help advocate and strategize for transition, the process of planning for adulthood. As your children grow, you will learn about state and federal systems, such as SSI (Supplemental Security Income from Social Security), DDD (NJ’s Division of Developmental Disabilities) for adult services, and the overarching importance of Medicaid for adults with disabilities.
Parents of children with disabilities work incredibly hard to make it through the day.
Typical families may have chaotic households that require significant coordination for everyday living, but the struggle is much greater for families like yours that must consider the needs of loved ones with disabilities. Families with children who have intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) contend with behavioral issues, exhausting tantrums, sensory considerations, complicated educational planning and constant anxiety about the future.
The neverending stress and harsh realities take an emotional toll on parents.
Undoubtedly, you need support — a place to vent, think, learn and plan — to feel fortified as you raise your children.
My guiding principles
Empathic support
I understand you must feel safe to acknowledge intense feelings about your parenting challenges.
Strategizing partnership
I act as a “co-thinker” for when you feel overwhelmed and need help organizing your mental struggles.
Practical information
I help you learn about federal and state benefits/systems as your child with I/DD grows toward adulthood.
Flexibility
I provide flexible scheduling because I know you are overstretched with all your responsibilities.
Training & Education
Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology from Yeshiva University
Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Yeshiva University
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Johns Hopkins University
Participant in Partners in Policymaking at The Elizabeth M. Boggs Center on Developmental Disabilities, Rutgers University
Fellow in NJLEND (NJ Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities) at The Elizabeth M. Boggs Center on Developmental Disabilities, Rutgers University