AboutDr. Jerry Martin, Jr. Expertise I will be able to answer any questions in general relation to family and children issues. Please do not ask me regards medications because I am not a medical doctor.
Experience I have experience with the children and teens in the past 20 years.
Organizations Certified Member of American Psychological Association - and a Fellow Member of International Society of Counsellors
Education/Credentials I holds BA degree in Psychology, MA degree in Social Work and Ed.D. degree in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Awards and Honors I hold numberous awards from state and regionial agencies for excellent community service to the youth and families in the past 12 years.
Question Hi Dr. Martin,
My boyfriend and I have been dating for 1 1/2 years. He has two girls that are 8 and 11 and I have two boys that are 8 and 11. We have made the decision to get engaged and move the family in together. The girls spend most of their time at my house when their dad has them because my house is big enough for all 4 kids and all 4 dogs. They each have their own room and have had these rooms since I bought the house over a year ago. When me and boyfriend told them about us wanting to get married and move everyone in together so we could all be together- the two girls were very upset. I know they love me and really like my two boys. Although, the two 11 year olds have their struggles. Anyway, I guess I want to know how best to handle their feelings. They always want to be at my house and yet they seem very resentful that we want to have them move in full-time. Tell me how I honor their feelings and get them to feel good about this move.
I appreciate any input you can offer. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Jodi Peterson
Answer Hi,
I know move is stressful for the girls. It is good idea to all of you sit down and talk about it so girls can be open to express their feelings and inputs. Talk things out again, and re-assure them everything will be the same except living in full-time in the home. OPEN COMMUNICATION LINE is very important.
More they stay there and they will adjust and I am pleased to hear the girls loves you and likes the boys. They get along pretty well.
Good luck with getting married and enjoy your new life together.
