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Written By: Dr. Dan Laluna (Licensed Clinical Psychologist) This past weekend at C2E2 Comic Con Event in Chicago, I had one of those surreal, full-circle moments. My wife and I attended a panel for Elizabeth Olsen—the actress who portrays Wanda Maximoff—and another for the cast of  Daredevil: Born Again , including Krysten Ritter, who brought Jessica Jones to life.  These are characters I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about—not because of their powers, but because of what t

Written By Dan Laluna (Licensed Clinical Psychologist) of Dr. Dan Laluna Psychological Testing Services Barrier #1: Cost and Insurance Coverage 💰 Psychological and Neuropsychological testing in the U.S. can cost $2,000-$3000 or more  from private pay and may be difficult to get covered by insurance due to pre-authorizations, “medical necessity” requirements, and hour limits. Many evaluations for school or workplace accommodations are denied, leaving patients to pay out of po

Written by:  Dan Laluna, PsyD Licensed Clinical Psychologist | Author, Movies in Mental Health and Media  Blog Series Directed by Chloé Zhao and starring Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal, the film Hamnet offers a deeply emotional exploration of grief through the lens of historical fiction. Centered on the devastating loss of William Shakespeare and his wife Agnes’s young son, Hamnet, during the plague, the film reflects on how profoundly—and differently—people experience grief.

Written By Dr. Dan Laluna (Licensed Clinical Psychologist) and Writer of Dr. Dan Laluna's Mental Health in Movies and Media Blog Series The film Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind poses a powerful psychological question: If you could erase painful memories of a relationship or trauma, would you? The story follows Joel Barish, portrayed by Jim Carrey in one of his most nuanced performances, as he undergoes a medical procedure designed to erase all memories of his former par

How film can help us understand, process, and feel less alone in our pain Grief is not a single emotion. It can include shock, anger, guilt, numbness, longing, confusion, and even moments of unexpected beauty. As psychologists, we know that storytelling can be a powerful therapeutic tool. Films often give language and imagery to experiences that feel impossible to articulate. Below are ten thoughtfully selected films that explore different dimensions of grief — from the loss

As IEP and 504 Plan meetings approach, many families begin asking important questions: Why is my child struggling? Is it ADHD? A learning disability? Anxiety? Something else? And most importantly—how do we make sure they receive the right support at school? Psychological and neuropsychological testing can provide the clarity families need during this critical time of year. Why Testing Matters Before IEP and 504 Meetings Many developmental and mental health conditions share ov

Few films portray cognitive decline as intimately and authentically as The Father . From a neuropsychological perspective, the film captures hallmark features of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias with striking accuracy — not through dramatization, but through lived experience. Rather than observing dementia from the outside, viewers are placed inside the perceptual confusion of the protagonist. The result is disorienting, unsettling, and profoundly human. Below is a c

In recent years, social media platforms such as TikTok have played a significant role in increasing awareness around mental health. While this visibility can be beneficial, it has also contributed to a growing trend of individuals self-identifying with mental health diagnoses based on short-form videos and online content. Unfortunately, this trend has led to a notable increase in misdiagnosis and, in some cases, ineffective or inappropriate treatment. Mental health diagnoses

Psychological testing  involves the use of standardized, research-based assessments to evaluate an individual’s cognitive abilities, emotional functioning, personality traits, and behavioral patterns. These tools provide clear, objective insights that support accurate diagnosis, treatment planning, and personal understanding. Why consider psychological testing? People seek testing to gain clarity about concerns such as attention difficulties, learning challenges, emotional st

Holiday Movies Related to Mental Health Blog Series   Written by Dan Laluna, PsyD 2. How the Grinch Stole Christmas  (2000) How How the Grinch Stole Christmas Illustrates the Psychological Impact of Social Relationships Jim Carrey’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas  (2000) is often remembered for its humor and visual spectacle, but beneath the surface it offers a thoughtful illustration of how social experiences shape emotional development and behavior. The film invites viewers

Movies have long been a powerful medium for storytelling, offering more than just entertainment. They provide a window into human experiences, emotions, and struggles, including those related to mental health. This blog post explores how movies can deepen our understanding of mental health, challenge stigma, and offer valuable insights that resonate with viewers. How Movies Reflect Mental Health Realities Films often portray characters facing mental health challenges such as

Alzheimer’s dementia affects millions of people worldwide, creating challenges not only for those diagnosed but also for their families and caregivers. Early detection and ongoing support can make a significant difference in managing the condition and maintaining quality of life. This post explores the key steps in testing for Alzheimer’s dementia and highlights the support services available to help individuals and families navigate this journey. Healthcare professional admi

Every student learns differently. Some face challenges that require additional support to succeed in school. School accommodations help level the playing field by providing tailored assistance to students with disabilities or learning differences. But how do you evaluate if these accommodations are effective? This guide walks you through the key steps to assess school accommodations, ensuring they meet the unique needs of each student. Classroom desk set up with learning aids

Psychological testing plays a crucial role in identifying and understanding neurodevelopmental conditions such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). These assessments provide valuable insights that guide diagnosis, treatment, and support strategies. This post explores the purpose, process, and benefits of psychological testing for ADHD and autism, helping families, educators, and individuals navigate the journey with clearer ex