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John Petersen
Psychologist specializing in marriage and couples counseling and sex therapy. Outreach focus is the cross section of relationship health and community health.
Recent Posts
Responding to the Las Vegas tragedy
I was very glad to take time with WSBT reporter Heather Black about the mass shooting in Las Vegas, a new low for our country as we risk becoming resigned to death by firearms as an acceptable part of our culture...
Psychologists speak on how people respond differently to tragedy after mass shootings
Experts say shootings can wear on people's emotional well-being, especially after seeing two mass causalities events in just the past month.This isn't easy for some people. Everyone responds to things like this a little differently.
Safe Digital Dating
Melissa Stephens put together this very helpful piece on an issue I had not thought about previously...
Safe digital dating: Ways to stay protected
In the world of modern love, finding a soulmate can be as easy as a swipe on a screen.
‘Getting help is the key’: Expert gives advice to parents of kids with concerning behavior
Dr. John Petersen is included in this story about children and concerning behavior.
'Getting help is the key': Expert gives advice to parents of kids with concerning behavior
We've heard stories of kids acting out and becoming problems for their parents, and a recent incident in our area involved an 11-year-old boy allegedly shooting his father. There are resources available if you notice your child has concerning behavior. One of the first steps is accepting the truth. A local child behavior expert says it's important to trust your gut. It's easy to feel guilty for not raising your child correctly, but sending them to get help is worth it before it's too late.
Ask An Expert series with Dr. John Petersen
Ask An Expert series brings together local experts to answer questions and highlight local resources. An annual favorite is the show about managing holiday stress...
Protecting Your Mental Health and Talking to Kids During Coronavirus Outbreak
WSBT News called for an interview at the start of the local COVID-19 shut down...
Local psychologist offers tips on how to protect your mental health, talk to kids during coronavirus outbreak
SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- As students stay home due the COVID-19 outbreak, they may have questions, or even fears, about it. Closures for dozens of Michiana school districts because of the coronavirus go into effect this week. On Monday, School City of Mishawaka is shutting down for two weeks. Michigan’s three we
WNDU Wellness Wednesday: Maintaining and improving mental health in the New Year
"Clinical psychologist Dr. John Petersen with Family Psychology of South Bend joined us to discuss New Years resolutions and maintaining and improving mental health...
Wellness Wednesdays: Eating Disorders
"Clinical psychologist Dr. John Petersen with Family Psychology of South Bend discusses healthy ways to understand and combat eating disorders for this week's Wellness Wednesday...
Perfecting the Morning Routine – Tips for Parents
Would you like to get your children out of bed, fed and off to school on time without nagging, hassling, and threatening them? You deserve a peaceful morning routine as much as your children do...
Dr. Petersen Interviewed by South Bend Tribune on Gun Violence Threats
South Bend Tribune Court and Public Safety writer Lincoln Wright interviewed law officials, me, and another psychologist about the recent uptick in threats of gun violence in high schools. See the link to the article below...
Violent threats at South Bend area schools surge after Florida shooting
The message "Friday, 2/23 all souls will be cleansed," was written on a bathroom stall at South Bend's John Adams High School Tuesday.
How to Respond to the Texas Shooting
Was glad to lend a hand to Heather Black's reporting at WSBT as she explored how we can respond to mass shootings without becoming complacent and habituated to the rituals of "thoughts and prayers...
Psychologists speak on how people respond differently to tragedy after mass shootings
Experts say shootings can wear on people's emotional well-being, especially after seeing two mass causalities events in just the past month.This isn't easy for some people.Everyone responds to things like this a little differently. Some find a way to prote