Columns - Irish Examiner

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Joanna Fortune

Dr Joanna Fortune is a psychotherapist working with children, teens, and adults. She is a recognised expert in play and the author of four books on the subject.

A girl, a brunette of seven years with a plush hare in her hands.

Joanna Fortune: Our four-year-old still sucks her thumb — what can we do?

Give her time to transition into school and you should see her settle and become less reliant on these external factors for regulation

Tue, 23 Jun, 2026

Stressed and unhappy young girl hide from domestic violence at home. Synchronos

Joanna Fortune: My partner and I have very different approaches to parenting

My partner lets our school children make their own mistakes, while I am more protective. Now our children are playing us off each other

Tue, 16 Jun, 2026

Joanna Fortune: My baby won't let me cuddle him since my hospital stay

He may look cross with you but the truth is probably nearer to the fact that he missed you — he was sad and couldn’t understand why you disappeared

Tue, 09 Jun, 2026

girl listening to smartphone music wearing earphones

Joanna Fortune: My teenage daughter is obsessed with her fitness tracker

If she begins skipping meals or pursuing calorie deficits to lose weight, I would strongly advise seeking professional intervention

Tue, 02 Jun, 2026

Stressed Young Girl Holding Her Head at Home

Joanna Fortune: My child is struggling to get over the death of our family dog

Do not rush her through this process, nor should you quickly replace the dog with a new one

Tue, 26 May, 2026

Joanna Fortune: How can I have the talk about sex with my teenage daughter?

It is essential to keep the doors of communication open on this so she can come to you to talk through aspects of her relationships with you in a safe and supportive way.

Tue, 19 May, 2026

Busy bisness mother woking at home while little daughter being occupied by digital tablet

Joanna Fortune: My young children are struggling with the demanding online course I've taken on

My nine-year-old daughter says I’m busy all the time. I want to be a good parent, but I also need to think of my future career

Tue, 12 May, 2026

Reflective moments of a modern teenager in her cozy apartment during evening hours

Joanna Fortune: My teenager is refusing to talk to me after a big row

Initiating repair communicates that your relationship matters more to you than being right, and it’s stronger than this row

Tue, 05 May, 2026

Kindergarten Classroom With Table and Colorful Chairs

Joanna Fortune: My children are struggling to adjust to creche routine

Your children are still adjusting to a significant cultural upheaval, which may make the transition to their new group care environment even more challenging

Tue, 21 Apr, 2026

Tired concerned mother rocking sleeping baby.

Joanna Fortune: I'm at breaking point following arrival of my third child

You feel overwhelmed because this is an overwhelming time but putting a plan in place to get help from your husband or friends could make a big difference

Tue, 14 Apr, 2026