She’s Not Crazy

Book, Podcast & Movement….

Are you exhausted from the pressures today’s world puts on us for being perfect? Striving to be your best in relationships, friendships, family, dating, marriage, parenting, career, and – oh, and don’t forget- looking physically perfect?

It’s enough to make anyone feel like you’re going crazy.

If you’re like millions of other “she’s”, you may feel confused by your mood, anxiety and feelings. Understanding your mind, mood and feelings are the key to unlocking your greatest life. You’re not crazy. You’re not alone. You’re not the only one dealing with your struggles. We’re in this together!

About the author

Lauren Schifferdecker is a TEDx speaker, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, entrepreneur, author, wife and mom . She founded Inspire in 2015 in a humble storage closet. Today, Inspire has nearly 70 employees across four locations in the Chicagoland area, offering counseling and psychiatry services. Most recently, Lauren has been named a “Power Woman” in Sheridan Road magazine’s 2023 roundup– as well as the “Most Influential Women Entrepreneurs Thriving in the Healthcare Ecosystem in 2023” by Healthcare Insights magazine.

Lauren’s here to offer a fresh approach for mental health with humor and heart-felt stories, and techniques that will inspire, educate and entertain you along the way!

“She’s Not Crazy” BOOK

If you’ve ever felt lost or confused by your feelings, you’re not crazy. More importantly, you’re not alone. “She’s Not Crazy” is an act of love.
Lauren is a seasoned psychotherapist sharing heartfelt, relatable and vulnerable stories from her own life and professional tools to harness your feminine power. This isn’t just for women. Feminine power is for all humans. Feminine power is in all humans.
Society openly celebrates masculine power, but often overlooks the feminine gifts in power. The truth is we need both for balance. In this book, you’ll gain realistic and easy steps to harness your divine feminine power to enhance your relationships, success and life.
ALL PROCEEDS from the book will be used for Inspire Change for Mental Health. A 501c3 Non-Profit group Lauren started to offer counseling services to people without insurance or ability to pay for services.
She’s Not Crazy book will be available for pre-order on Amazon and Kindle in late 2023. Sign up for our e-newlsetter to be notified once the book is available for order.

“She’s Not Crazy”

Book by ~ Lauren Schifferdecker, MA, LCPC

As a mom, wife, former public relations executive, multi-site counseling practice owner, TEDx speaker and Podcast host–I can tell you I know a thing or two about feeling crazy trying to keep up with everything!! (and yes, I know, I use too many explanation points and emojis!!!)

After struggling to feel comfortable in my own skin for years, I finally decided to do something about it. In my quest to understand what was going on in my own head, it turned into a life-long obsession to create understanding and hacks to help find balance and peace. I’ve helped hundreds of clients, employees, listeners and people in the community step into who they really are and confidently show up in their lives like never before. I’m glad you’re here, and I can’t wait for you to see what’s next!

Catch all new episodes of "She's Not Crazy" Podcast only on

About The Show

Are you exhausted from the pressures today’s world puts on us for being perfect? Striving to be your best in relationships, friendships, family, dating, marriage, parenting, career, and – oh, and don’t forget- looking physically perfect? It’s enough to make anyone feel like you’re going crazy.

If you’re like millions of other “she’s”, you may feel confused by your mood, anxiety and feelings. Understanding your mind, mood and feelings are the key to unlocking your greatest life. Tap into the power of feeling balanced and living life on YOUR terms. Join thousands of other “she’s” on a journey to have more peace, happiness, connection and authentic relationships.

When you feel balanced and feel in control, everything in your life works better.

Tune In to The Latest Episodes!!

“She’s Not Crazy” PODCAST

Lauren Schifferdecker, TEDx speaker, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, is here to go on a journey, together, of discovery using a fresh approach for mental health hacks, humor and heart-felt stories, and techniques that will inspire, educate and entertain you along the way!

“She’s Not Crazy”

Podcast Host ~ Lauren Schifferdecker

As a mom, wife, former public relations executive, multi-site counseling practice owner, TEDx speaker and Podcast host–I can tell you I know a thing or two about feeling crazy trying to keep up with everything!! (and yes, I know, I use too many explanation points and emojis!!!)

After struggling to feel comfortable in my own skin for years, I finally decided to do something about it. In my quest to understand what was going on in my own head, it turned into a life-long obsession to create understanding and hacks to help find balance and peace. I’ve helped hundreds of clients, employees, listeners and people in the community step into who they really are and confidently show up in their lives like never before. I’m glad you’re here, and I can’t wait for you to see what’s next!

Catch all new episodes of "She's Not Crazy" Podcast only on

About The Show

Are you exhausted from the pressures today’s world puts on us for being perfect? Striving to be your best in relationships, friendships, family, dating, marriage, parenting, career, and – oh, and don’t forget- looking physically perfect? It’s enough to make anyone feel like you’re going crazy.

If you’re like millions of other “she’s”, you may feel confused by your mood, anxiety and feelings. Understanding your mind, mood and feelings are the key to unlocking your greatest life. Tap into the power of feeling balanced and living life on YOUR terms. Join thousands of other “she’s” on a journey to have more peace, happiness, connection and authentic relationships.

When you feel balanced and feel in control, everything in your life works better.

Tune In to The Latest Episodes!!

“She’s Not Crazy”

Podcast Host ~ Lauren Schifferdecker

As a mom, wife, former public relations executive, multi-site counseling practice owner, TEDx speaker and Podcast host–I can tell you I know a thing or two about feeling crazy trying to keep up with everything!! (and yes, I know, I use too many explanation points and emojis!!!)

After struggling to feel comfortable in my own skin for years, I finally decided to do something about it. In my quest to understand what was going on in my own head, it turned into a life-long obsession to create understanding and hacks to help find balance and peace. I’ve helped hundreds of clients, employees, listeners and people in the community step into who they really are and confidently show up in their lives like never before. I’m glad you’re here, and I can’t wait for you to see what’s next!

Catch all new episodes of "She's Not Crazy" Podcast only on

About The Show

Are you exhausted from the pressures today’s world puts on us for being perfect? Striving to be your best in relationships, friendships, family, dating, marriage, parenting, career, and – oh, and don’t forget- looking physically perfect? It’s enough to make anyone feel like you’re going crazy.

If you’re like millions of other “she’s”, you may feel confused by your mood, anxiety and feelings. Understanding your mind, mood and feelings are the key to unlocking your greatest life. Tap into the power of feeling balanced and living life on YOUR terms. Join thousands of other “she’s” on a journey to have more peace, happiness, connection and authentic relationships.

When you feel balanced and feel in control, everything in your life works better.

Tune In to The Latest Episodes!!

“She’s Not Crazy”

Podcast Host ~ Lauren Schifferdecker

As a mom, wife, former public relations executive, multi-site counseling practice owner, TEDx speaker and Podcast host–I can tell you I know a thing or two about feeling crazy trying to keep up with everything!! (and yes, I know, I use too many explanation points and emojis!!!)

After struggling to feel comfortable in my own skin for years, I finally decided to do something about it. In my quest to understand what was going on in my own head, it turned into a life-long obsession to create understanding and hacks to help find balance and peace. I’ve helped hundreds of clients, employees, listeners and people in the community step into who they really are and confidently show up in their lives like never before. I’m glad you’re here, and I can’t wait for you to see what’s next!

Catch all new episodes of "She's Not Crazy" Podcast only on

About The Show

Are you exhausted from the pressures today’s world puts on us for being perfect? Striving to be your best in relationships, friendships, family, dating, marriage, parenting, career, and – oh, and don’t forget- looking physically perfect? It’s enough to make anyone feel like you’re going crazy.

If you’re like millions of other “she’s”, you may feel confused by your mood, anxiety and feelings. Understanding your mind, mood and feelings are the key to unlocking your greatest life. Tap into the power of feeling balanced and living life on YOUR terms. Join thousands of other “she’s” on a journey to have more peace, happiness, connection and authentic relationships.

When you feel balanced and feel in control, everything in your life works better.

Tune In to The Latest Episodes!!

Transforming work relationships & culture trough conflict

Listen to how real conflict at work can be used to build trust, eliminate drama, transform the culture in the midst of growing pains.

Men’s emotions – what’s really going on?

Get the scoop from a top male therapist who reveals what’s really going on with men’s emotions and the struggle between feeling shut-down and explosive blow ups. Not only that – hear his personal story about relationship struggles, counseling and why men so often stay silent.

Why guys struggle with emotions.

There is a profound loss for boys and men when they can’t express their wants, needs and feelings. If we can redefine masculinity and manhood, we can improve relationships and allow guys to feel alive and happy again.

Being a person your kids want to talk to

Snag this magic tool for talking to your kids, so you are a person they’ll want to share with again. Relating instead of fixing our kids problems.

What should we do when our kids face challenges?

It’s so hard when our kids face challenges and make mistakes. Here’s one simple trick to partner with them today, so they have tools to solve bigger problems in the future.

Go to bed angry

We’ve all heard, never go to be angry. But, there’s a good reason to give yourself one night’s sleep to be more self-respecting and deliver a message that’s actually heard and understood.

The dance all couples do

All couples do a sort of dance. When your partner engages with you, asks a question or shares their feelings – it’s like asking you to dance. See why it’s so important to engage in those small, seemingly unimportant everyday interactions and “dance” with your partner.

Motivation is overrated ….and not required for success

How to talk to your kids, so they’ll talk to YOU!

No-Brainer ways to increase Self-confidence…. (seriously, no thinking required!)

Using jealousy to make your life better

The enemy of anxiety is action

🎃 Halloween is supposed to be FUN... but what if your child's brain experiences it differently?

👻 Masks.
🔔 Doorbells.
😱 Screaming.
🎨 Face paint.
🍬 Crowds.
🧙 Scratchy costumes.

For some neurodivergent children, Halloween can feel like a sensory nightmare disguised as fun.

Children with autism, ADHD, and sensory processing differences may experience sights, sounds, textures, and unexpected changes more intensely than other kids.

And when their nervous systems become overwhelmed, it may look like refusal, irritability, withdrawal, or a full-blown meltdown.

❤️ Here's what we want parents to remember:

Your child isn't necessarily trying to be difficult. They may be communicating that something feels difficult.

So instead of insisting they wear the costume, stay out longer, or participate like everyone else, get curious.

✨ What feels uncomfortable?
✨ What would make this easier?
✨ How can we help them participate in a way that feels manageable?

Maybe Halloween means three houses instead of thirty. Maybe it's a soft costume, noise-canceling headphones, or handing out candy from the comfort of home.

And that's okay!

Building resilience doesn't mean forcing children to tolerate overwhelming experiences. It means helping them understand their needs, practice coping skills, and gradually build confidence with our support.

At Inspire Counseling Center, we help children and families navigate sensory sensitivities, emotional regulation, and the unique challenges of neurodivergence.

🧡 Because Halloween should be about making memories—not meeting expectations.

🎃 Save this post for Halloween night and share it with a parent who might need the reminder.

#NeurodivergentKids #SensoryOverload #AutismParenting #ADHDParenting #SensoryFriendlyHalloween #HalloweenWithKids #Neurodiversity #ParentingTips #ChildMentalHealth #InspireCounselingCenter
🎃 ADHD + a bucket full of Halloween candy + no routine = WHAT COULD POSSIBLY GO WRONG?! 🍬👻

If you're parenting a child with ADHD, you know Halloween can be equal parts magical... and meltdown-inducing. 😅

But here's something that might surprise you:

🧠 It's not necessarily the sugar!

Research hasn't found convincing evidence that sugar causes ADHD or consistently increases hyperactivity.

The bigger challenge? EVERYTHING ELSE happening on Halloween!

🎃 Sensory overload from costumes, crowds, and noise

🍬 Excitement and difficulty controlling impulses

⏰ Disrupted routines and later bedtimes

👻 Big feelings when it's time to stop trick-or-treating

❤️ Difficulty transitioning from FUN to DONE!

For kids with ADHD, that's a LOT for their brains to manage.

So before you blame the candy or assume your child is misbehaving, consider whether they're simply overwhelmed.

A little preparation, predictable boundaries, and plenty of patience can make a big difference.

And remember: The goal isn't a perfect Halloween. It's helping our kids learn to navigate excitement, disappointment, and big emotions with our support.

At Inspire Counseling Center, we help children with ADHD and their families develop tools for emotional regulation, confidence, and resilience.

💜 Because sometimes the sweetest thing you can give your child isn't another piece of candy. It's your understanding.

📲 Call or Text (847) 919-9096 

#ADHDParenting #ADHDKids #HalloweenWithKids #ADHDAwareness #ParentingTips #EmotionalRegulation #NeurodivergentKids #ChildTherapy #InspireCounselingCenter
Halloween drama has already started… and it’s not even October. 🎃

Every year, we hear from parents whose child wasn’t included in the group costume… wasn’t invited to trick-or-treat… or suddenly realizes everyone else already has Halloween plans.

And Halloween can make friendship struggles feel especially painful.

Because unlike a sleepover or birthday party, there isn’t an obvious limit.

You can trick-or-treat with one kid… or 20.

So when your child is the one left out, it can feel VERY personal.

And as parents, our instinct is often to FIX it.

Text the other parents. Find out what happened. Make new plans. Tell them those kids aren’t worth their time.

But before you fix anything… listen.

Try:

“That really hurts. I can understand why you feel left out.”

Sometimes these painful moments give us an opportunity to connect with our kids in a way we can't when everything is going well.

And then — as hard as this part is — let them experience some of the discomfort.

Because one of the most important things kids and teens can learn is:

“I can go through something hard… and I can handle it.”

We don’t build resilience by making sure our kids never feel rejected, disappointed, embarrassed, or left out.

We build it by staying beside them while they move through those feelings.

Halloween might feel huge right now.

But knowing, “I can handle hard things”?

That lasts a lot longer than Halloween. ❤️
Is your kid's friend group changing? 💔

When you hear, “They don’t like me anymore” does your heart skip a beat? Do you get fired up? Most parents feel something in the fight-flight range of reactions. We want to protect our kids from all pain. 

Maybe your daughter comes home crying. Her best friend is suddenly hanging out with someone else. She wasn't added to the new group chat. Maybe everyone was invited somewhere except her.

And every parental instinct in you says:

FIX IT.

Should you call another parent? Contact the school? Tell her those girls aren't worth her time?

Sometimes the best first step is actually much simpler:

Listen and connect. 

Friendships can change during the tween and teen years. Kids are figuring out who they are, where they belong, what they value in relationships, and how to navigate conflict, rejection and repair.

That doesn't make the heartbreak any less real.

Instead of immediately jumping into problem-solving mode, try:

💛 “That sounds really painful.”
💛 “Do you want me to listen, or would you like help figuring out what to do?”
💛 “What do you think happened?”
💛 “What would you like to happen next?”

Giving your child room to navigate age-appropriate friendship struggles can help them build confidence, boundaries, communication skills and resilience. So they can navigate age-appropriate struggles as they grow older. 

But stepping back doesn't mean ignoring everything.

If you're seeing persistent bullying, harassment, threats, online cruelty, significant school avoidance, increasing isolation, or major changes in your child's mood or behavior, it may be time for adults to become more involved.

Perhaps one of the hardest parts of parenting is recognizing that our job isn't to protect our kids from ever experiencing rejection. 

It's to help them realize they can handle it, and they are resilient. Also, they can learn that you are a safe person they can return to when it happens. ❤️

#TeenFriendships #MiddleSchool #MiddleSchoolFriendships #TweenParenting #ParentingTeens #TeenMentalHealth #FriendshipProblems #TeenAnxiety #ParentingTweens #InspireCounselingCenter