The Interpreted Rock

By Stephen C. Schultz Allow me to share a brief conversation I had with my brother, Jared Schultz (PhD in Rehabilitation Counseling and Department Head at VCU), which I believe might be helpful. Jared and I were discussing the transition from adolescence to young adulthood. This conversation naturally included how to support young adults in becoming self-sufficient, responsible, and productive members of society. Often, this can be a subtle yet significant challenge, especially for those who have received mental health services and various interventions over time. Many young adults dealing with complex clinical concerns—including depression, anxiety, ADHD, ASD, and other co-occurring developmental issues—have had limited opportunities to focus on career aspirations, education, or independent living skills. When therapeutic interventions are no longer the primary focus, these young adults may feel unprepared for social and career development. This can lead to discouragement and, in many...

By Dr. Stephanie Mattson “Pop!” ...The sound of a cap gun going off was barely heard over the sound of the Frankie Lane album playing on the old record player in the corner. In addition to those two consistent sounds, a new sound was added. A hollow banging; the sound of somebody tumbling down the stairs. This medley of strange sounds was coming from two young boys. Stephen and Scott, brothers, age ten and six, were playing one of their favorite games. The game was called “Stunt Man” and was a regular after – school activity for the two troublemakers. “Stunt Man” was a game designed with a cleverness that took a unique kind of genius to appreciate. Many would say the game was reckless, stupid or just a big waste of time, but to Scott and Steve, the game they had invented was first on their unspoken list of childhood pleasures. The game “Stunt Man” was played on the stairs and worked best if the staircase was narrow. The object of the game: to see which boy could fall the most realistic...