Secrets By Dr Barbara Becker Holstein Achieves Bestseller Status In Teen & Young Adult Self Esteem Ebooks

Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein is a best-selling author and film maker who uses positive psychology concepts to help kids deal with bullying, anxiety, depression, loneliness, school shootings and social media issues.

It is heart-wrenching to witness the immense hurdles we must ask our children, as young a six years old, to navigate. The impact of social media is profound—this form of communication serves as both a means of connection and a source of isolation. Loneliness has extended its influence into the virtual world, affecting our youth in unprecedented ways. The specter of school shootings, a haunting nightmare ingrained in our collective consciousness, forces us to teach our children, who are barely beginning their journey in this world, how to protect themselves. Bullying can now follow our kids relentlessly, thanks to the pervasive influence of social media. The consequences? Depression, anxiety and tragically, even suicide, affecting children as young as eight years old. For many of our kids, pixels seem to carry more weight than spoken words. How can we, as parents and educators, hope to grasp the depth of these challenges, let alone provide our children with the tools to build self-esteem and resilience in the face of this new normal?

We must meet them where they are, and help them navigate this maze, using tools and concepts they can understand and find engaging . That is the goal of 'Secrets', the bestselling ebook by Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein. Secrets recently achieved bestseller status on Amazon in the Teen & Young Adult Self Esteem Ebooks category.

Secrets employs positive psychology concepts wrapped in a self-esteem workbook format. Every girl is offered a creative opportunity to develop her creative talents and potential as she processes and better understands the angst of growing up and how it can be successfully handled. She can bring her own talents to her thoughts and responses to the issues presented which will further take her along a road of enhanced resilience and better self esteem. She can use it as a depression and anxiety workbook, write her creative thoughts, create poetry, start a play, draw a picture, or she can get out her phone and use it as a diary, or a means of sharing ideas about growing up with a friend, or her mom or grandma. Or she can actually make selfie films with her phone which can be a great enhancer for self esteem and sharing one's creative talents.

The ebook version of Secrets is available at Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/Secrets-version-Barbara-Becker-Holstein-ebook/dp/B0C72PSQXP/ref=sr_1_7?crid=UX0SECIPYI7X&keywords=barbara+becker+holstein+secrets&qid=1696106215&sprefix=barbara+becker+holstein+secrets%2Caps%2C115&sr=8-7.

Dr. Holstein hopes to bring parents, teachers, librarians, grandparents and media together to accomplish one goal: Change in the lives of young people who suffer from anxiety and a growing sense of hopelessness and despair.

Dr. Holstein wraps Positive Psychology concepts in forms of media that young people find engaging, relatable and inspiring. These include:

Four bestselling, award-winning books (perfect for school libraries)

Four self-esteem workbooks for girls 8 and up

Award-winning films and coming of age selfie films

Podcasts

Dedicated websites

Stage plays

A library of articles

Ted-style talks

As a school psychologist and in her private practice, Dr. Holstein has worked with many children and parents, helping them to develop life skills in decision-making, recognition of their own talents, feel more courageous, and helping both kids and parents develop more successful inter-generational skills. Her last book, ‘Conflict and a Bit of Magic’, helps kids build self-esteem though reading the journal of a girl, identifying with the girl, and understanding they have more courage and resiliency than they thought they had. The book is based on the experiences of the already famous “girl” from 'The Truth, Diary of a Gutsy Tween' and 'Secrets, Diary of a Gutsy Teen', and achieved bestseller status in the multi-generational families category.

Dr. Holstein’s latest workbook for kids, ‘Secrets’ achieved bestseller status in the ‘Teen & Young Adult Nonfiction on Depression’ category.

Dr. Holstein's cutting-edge presentations, most recently based on the Covid-19 pandemic issues, can be found on both YouTube, Vimeo and on the Roku channel and Amazon Fire TV, titled as 'The Enchanted Self Presents'.

Dr. Holstein recently created The Selfie Showcase, a new project emerging from The Selfie Project, that allows young people to voice their opinions on subjects that matter to young people, including the pandemic.

The Selfie Showcase allows kids, teens, and young adults ages 13 to 18 to candidly express their concerns, worries, observations and possible solutions by creating selfie videos or films around important subjects using a smartphone. Dr. Holstein's mission is to help rectify, in several ways, some issues young people face by giving them a chance to engage with others in meaningful ways about the anxiety and stress they must grapple with constantly.

Dr. Holstein is available for media interviews and can be reached using the information below or by email at barbara.holstein@gmail.com.More information about the Selfie Showcase is available at http://www.selfiefilmmakers.com. Selfie videos and selfie films can be uploaded at the site. Potential podcast guests can contact Dr. Holstein by email. More information is available at her primary website at http://www.enchantedself.com.

Profile:

Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein, internationally known Positive Psychologist is the creator of The Enchanted Self ®, a positive psychology method for happiness and a pioneer in Selfies as Film. Dr. Holstein's Enchanted Self website was included as one of the best websites in positive psychology. She is in private practice in Long Branch, New Jersey with her husband, Dr. Russell M. Holstein.

Dr. Barbara can be found on the web, interviewed, writing articles and posting video 'TED' style talks on Happiness, Positive Psychology, Relationships and Parenting. Her Roku channel is: The Enchanted Self Presents.

She has been a contributor to Your Tango, Heart and Soul, The Philadelphia Inquirer, Honey Good, Cosmopolitan Magazine, Redbook, Real Simple, Women’s World, The Wall Street Journal, Psychcentral.com, Time online, the Today Show and Family Circle Magazine.

Contact:

Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein
170 Morris Ave.,
Long Branch, New Jersey 07740
barbara.holstein@gmail.com
732-571-1200
http://www.enchantedself.com

Leia Mais…

Bullying, Drug Abuse And Youth Suicide Are Key Issues For Selfie Film Maker Barbara Becker Holstein

Dr. Holstein, a psychologist/filmmaker and originator of a unique Selfie Film concept, writes award-winning books, plays and produces short films that offer solutions to problems that impact today's teens and tweens

Our children face issues today that are unlike any problems faced by young people in previous generations. We read daily about bullying, drug abuse, teen suicide and many other issues that teens coming of age must face. Recently a feature film by Greta Gerwig, 'Lady Bird', gave us a powerful look at coming of age. Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein, a pioneer in the selfie film genre, tackles these subjects head-on. She recently issued a statement addressing some of those issues.

"Given our serious societal problems such as excessive bullying, abuse of social media, our drug crisis, youths committing suicide, and more, it is extremely important for us adults to understand what growing up is all about," Holstein stated. "Films can help us understand and hopefully stir us to positive action.  'Lady Bird' drops right in front of us for one and half hours an amazing number of incidents, emotions, and reactions that often go with coming of age. Each encounter is food for thought. 'Lady Bird' is a mirror reflection of many of us.  Most of us have had a first love, a first love disappointment, a shock, been disparaged and demeaned by someone, cut off from a loved one, etc.  This film takes place in 2002, before the on slot of social media.  Good in that we can view the insults and successes that are similar to what many of us went through. However, some of the incredible pulse of today's world is missing.

"Kids live in a world that simply wasn't there for us.  Now there is no way to turn off.  When we left the classroom and the kid we didn't like we might not deal with her until school the next day.  Today because of social media, the worst bullying may take place at 11:00 at night on social media. Kids are overwhelmed by social media and the intrusiveness into our lives it allows and even encourages. Down time is lost.  Sleep is interrupted.  Many kids text all night on and off. 

"As a psychologist turned filmmaker I take all of the above very seriously.  I applaud 'Lady Bird' as a window into growing up and yet I feel the need to go even further into today's window, keeping my films in the present so we see the world as kids live in it now.  Kids have smartphones and they use them constantly, so in my films their phones serve as their diaries, their constant companion and a means of sharing intimate thoughts and feelings with the world, including if they wish, strangers. In my films it is never 100% clear whether the protagonist is keeping a diary on her phone or reaching out to a stranger.  You, as the viewer must decide. 

"My films utilize #selfiefilmmaking. This means that the actors often film themselves with their smartphones, without a crew watching.  This gives an intimacy and sense of reality to my films and also a great opportunity for young actors to learn how to take charge of their character, rather than just following orders.  I am proud to follow in the footsteps of Woodie Allen and Larry David who encourage not memorizing the script but absorbing the message and then letting the scene flow."

Dr. Holstein is now accepting requests to post selfie films on a website devoted to selfie films, SelfieFilmmakers.com. The selfie filmmakers can submit their films for consideration at the site.

The focus of the site is to honor different facets of the Selfie Film phenomenon. It is a place to explore what makes these films so inviting psychologically and emotionally. The site will host a variety of people who are the creators of this new wave of filmmaking. All ages covering a variety of topics. From the depths of our souls to the lightest touch of humor, a new wave of filmmaker explore being human, sharing thoughts and feelings in new ways via smart phones.

Holstein's short films have won numerous awards and accolades. 'The Truth, A Short Film' premiered at the Garden State Film Festival and its song, 'On The Edge of Something New' won the award as the best pop song of 2016. The short two minute film by Dr. Holstein, 'The Truth, A Short Short Film', premiered at FilmOneFest in July of 2016. The film was chosen as an Official Selection in the Chain Film Festival held in Manhattan on August 13, 2016. Also selected by the Jersey City International Television and Film Festival (JCITFF), and shown on November 5, 2016 at the Jersey City International Television and Film Festival. 'The Truth, A Short Film' was officially selected for the Golden Door International Film Festival in September 2016.  It was shown at The Grove Film Festival in Jersey City on May 21, 2017, the shorter version was shown at The Hang On To Your Shorts Film Festival in Asbury Park, New Jersey. 'The Truth, A Short Film' was an official selection for the virtual Female Filmmakers Film Festival. There was a public voting of favorite films and 'The Truth' came in 12th of 92 films.  'The Truth, A Short Film' was an Official Selection at the Roselle Park Shorts Film Festival on September 25, 2017.

'Secrets, A Coming of Age, Selfie Film' by Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein was recently nominated for the Alice Guy-Blache Women in Cinema Award at the Golden Door International Film Festival on October 7, 2017 in Jersey City.  Nominees were announced at the Awards Night at The Lankmark Loew's Jersey Theatre .

'Falling in Love, A Coming of Age, Selfie Film, is detailed in a new ebook: 'A Selfie Film - Falling In Love' by Dr. Holstein. This ebook presents issues and stories behind the creation of Dr. Holstein's "selfie films", which utilize cutting edge New Media technology. Topics and questions for discussion can be used by a parent and a child, or a group of hundreds as universal subjects of growing up and handling tough issues are presented. 

'Falling in Love'  was an official selection at the Brightside Tavern Film Festival in Jersey City in early March, nominated for several awards, including 'Best Experimental Film' and 'Best New Jersey Short'.  It came in second place for 'Best New Jersey Short'.

'Falling in Love' was an official selection also at The Hang On To Your Shorts Film Festival in Asbury Park on May 21, 2017.  It was nominated for several awards, including Best Experimental Film, and Best Concept Film.  Megan Brown, a high school freshman, who stars in 'Falling in Love' received the 'Rising Star Award' for her acting performance in 'Falling in Love' at this Festival.

Dr Holstein presented her Selfiesasfilm concept, along with her films. at the American Psychological Association meetings in early August 2017 at a Symposium: Novel Directions: Novel Directions: Four Practicing Psychologists' Atypical Pursuits. 

Dr. Holstein makes a number of her books and films available to be used as fundraising tools. She requests that any verified charitable organization interested in raising funds contact her via email. She is available for media interviews and can be reached using the information below or by email at barbara.holstein@gmail.com.  More information is available at her website at http://www.NewShortFilmTheTruth.com.

Profile:

Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein, internationally known Positive Psychologist is the creator of The Enchanted Self ®, a positive psychology method for happiness and a pioneer in  Selfies as Film. Dr. Holstein's Enchanted Self website was included as one of the best websites in positive psychology. She is in private practice in Long Branch, New Jersey with her husband, Dr. Russell M. Holstein.

Dr. Barbara can be found on the web, interviewed, writing articles and posting video 'TED' style talks on Happiness,  Positive Psychology, Relationships and Parenting.

She has been a contributor to Your Tango, Heart and Soul, Cosmopolitan Magazine, Redbook, Real Simple, The Wall Street Journal, Time on line, the Today Show and Family Circle Magazine.

Contact:

Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein
170 Morris Ave.,
Long Branch, New Jersey 07740
barbara.holstein@gmail.com
732-571-1200
http://www.thetruthforgirls.com
http://www.selfiefilmmakers.com

Leia Mais…

Selfie Film By Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein Nominated For Alice Guy-Blache Women in Cinema Award At The Golden Door International Film Festival

Dr. Holstein, a psychologist/filmmaker and originator of a unique Selfie Film concept, writes award-winning books, plays and produces short films that offer solutions to problems that impact today's teens and tweens

'Secrets, A Coming of Age, Selfie Film' by Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein, recently premiered and was nominated for the Alice Guy-Blache Women in Cinema Award at the Golden Door International Film Festival in Jersey City.  Nominees were announced at the Awards Night, October 8, 2017 at The Lankmark Loew's Jersey Theatre . Dr. Holstein is the creator of the concept of The Enchanted Self and has recently taken her place as an innovator in a new film concept - the Selfie film.

"What is The Enchanted Self? It's that gut feeling that I teach people to recognize, when people begin to understand when they are in their own 'zone' of energy, a feeling of purpose, a sense of themselves as whole, happy, focused. As the New York Times reported you can learn 'How to Hack Your Brain (for $5,000)'.  Or you can, as I suggest, take time to review your own talents, strengths, potential and what gives you a sense of purpose.  This costs less and keeps you out of the danger of getting excited about someone else's paradise, rather than your own unique spot on this planet.

"My Enchanted Self concept has continued to expand in ways I never imagined five years ago.  One is the birth of the Selfie.  While most psychologists have been down on the Selfie, I see it as a marvelous tool of technology that brings into everyone's hands the capacity to be a filmmaker.  Whether you take videos of your funny cat, or keep your vacation diary in pictures and videos on your phone, you are technically a filmmaker.

"Endless potential is out there.  Is it dangerous? It can be, just as Facebook can be misleading when ads are sold that can undermine our great democracy.  But let us assume responsible behavior and see what I have done with Selfiesasfilm.com.

"When we look at what is happening now, especially in regards to the situation involving Harvey Weinstein, we see that in the film world women have played a second class role. I am determined as a director and writer in the film world to be a force that brings more women to the success levels they deserve in that world, without being bullied or pushed inappropriately. 

"I have developed a new approach to filmmaking that involves a combination of smart phones and a camera crew.  The powerful short films I am making using Smart phones and a camera crew illustrate and highlight through drama the angst that our girls, tweens and teens go through in our culture. Whether it is severe anxiety, as discussed in the New York Times Magazine Section, 'Why are more American teenagers than ever suffering from severe anxiety,' or the opiod epidemic, early pregnancy, bullying, alcohol, poor self-esteem, lack of vocational direction, drugs, girls are at risk and need avenues that help to educate and elaborate their dilemmas.

"I was honored to have my film 'Secrets, A Coming of Age, Selfie Film' nominated for the Alice Guy-Blache Women in Cinema Award at the Golden Door International Film Festival on October 7, 2017.  Nominees were announced at the Awards Night at The Lankmark  Loew's Jersey Theatre in Jersey City. To be the first female director of Selfie Films aimed at a better understanding of the psychological, social and emotional needs of kids, particularly, girls, tweens and teens growing up in our society is a mission I take seriously as a psychologist and now a filmmaker.  To be linked now in this nomination with the first Woman Director in the early days of film making is meaningful and inspirational to me.

"The making of films that help girls, tweens and teens be better understood, feel better about themselves and make better decisions, utilizing camera techniques that are dramatically able to increase the emotional reactions of audiences and lead to better understanding of kid's dilemmas are a win-win for everyone."  

Holstein's short films have won numerous awards and accolades. 'The Truth, A Short Film' premiered at the Garden State Film Festival and its song, 'On The Edge of Something New' won the award as the best pop song of 2016. The short two minute film by Dr. Holstein, 'The Truth, A Short Short Film', premiered at FilmOneFest in July of 2016. The film was chosen as an Official Selection in the Chain Film Festival held in Manhattan on August 13, 2016. Also selected by the Jersey City International Television and Film Festival (JCITFF), and shown on November 5, 2016 at the Jersey City International Television and Film Festival. 'The Truth, A Short Film' was officially selected for the Golden Door International Film Festival in September 2016.  It was shown at The Grove Film Festival in Jersey City on May 21, 2017, the shorter version was shown at The Hang On To Your Shorts Film Festival in Asbury Park, New Jersey. 'The Truth, A Short Film' was an official selection for the virtual Female Filmmakers Film Festival. There was a public voting of favorite films and 'The Truth' came in 12th of 92 films.  'The Truth, A Short Film' was an Official Selection at the Roselle Park Shorts Film Festival on September 25, 2017.

'Falling in Love, A Coming of Age, Selfie Film, is detailed in a new ebook: 'A Selfie Film - Falling In Love' by Dr. Holstein. This ebook presents issues and stories behind the creation of Dr. Holstein's "selfie films", which utilize cutting edge smart phone technology. These Selfie Films assisted by a professional camera crew, result in an intensity and intimacy of performance. The topics and questions for discussion in the book can be used by a group of two, a parent and a child, or a group of hundreds as the universal subjects of growing up and handling tough issues are discussed. 

'Falling in Love'  was an official selection at the Brightside Tavern Film Festival in Jersey City in early March, nominated for several awards, including 'Best Experimental Film' and 'Best New Jersey Short'.  It came in second place for 'Best New Jersey Short'.

'Falling in Love' was an official selection also at The Hang On To Your Shorts Film Festival in Asbury Park on May 21, 2017.  It was nominated for several awards, including Best Experimental Film, and Best Concept Film.  Megan Brown, a high school freshman, who stars in 'Falling in Love' received the 'Rising Star Award' for her acting performance in 'Falling in Love' at this Festival.

On June 19, 2017, 'The Truth', and 'Falling in Love' was shown at the Monmouth County District Library in Shrewsbury, followed by a talk and Q&A led by Dr. Holstein and assisted by Megan Brown, actress.

Dr Holstein presented her Selfiesasfilm concept at the American Psychological Association meetings in early August 2017 at a Symposium: Novel Directions: Novel Directions: Four Practicing Psychologists' Atypical Pursuits.  The audience watched her film,'The Truth, A Short, Short Film' and the 30 second trailer to her newest film, 'Secrets, A Coming of Age, Selfie Film.'

Dr. Holstein makes a number of her books and films available to be used as fundraising tools. She requests that any verified charitable organization interested in raising funds contact her via email. She is available for media interviews and can be reached using the information below or by email at barbara.holstein@gmail.com.  More information is available at her website at http://www.NewShortFilmTheTruth.com.

Profile:

Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein, internationally known Positive Psychologist is the creator of The Enchanted Self ®, a positive psychology method for happiness and a pioneer in  Selfies as Film. Dr. Holstein's Enchanted Self website was included as one of the best websites in positive psychology. She is in private practice in Long Branch, New Jersey with her husband, Dr. Russell M. Holstein.

Dr. Barbara can be found on the web, interviewed, writing articles and posting video 'TED' style talks on Happiness,  Positive Psychology, Relationships and Parenting.

She has been a contributor to Your Tango, Heart and Soul, Cosmopolitan Magazine, Redbook, Real Simple, The Wall Street Journal, Time on line, the Today Show and Family Circle Magazine.

Contact:
Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein
170 Morris Ave.,
Long Branch, New Jersey 07740
barbara.holstein@gmail.com
732-571-1200
http://www.thetruthforgirls.com
http://www.selfiesasfilm.com

Leia Mais…

Dr. Barbara Beckher Holstein, Positive Psychologist And Pioneer In The Selfie Film Movement, Creates Award Winning, Touching And Educational Selfie Films

Dr. Holstein, a psychologist/filmmaker and originator of a unique Selfie Film concept, writes award-winning books, plays and produces short films that offer solutions to problems that impact today's teens and tweens

Mental health is a major issue in the US today for people in all age groups, especially young people. Nothing could be more important than helping young people develop powerful coping skills and help them adjust to reality in ways that lay the foundations for creative, fulfilling and happy lives. That is a complex challenge, as young people face pressures and problems today that are unlike the issues faced by previous generations. Sadly, they are often reluctant to seek out help for fear of being labeled, or perhaps because they feel alone.

A recent article on the NJEA website presented a unique idea - a school Mental Health Awareness Fair that allowed students to meet mental health professionals in a fun, non-threatening environment. It worked. To give young people an opportunity to create positive self esteem is the primary focus of Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein's books, plays and films. As a pioneer in the selfie film genre, she recognizes that selfies are becoming part of the art form of film and also stand on the threshold on being great tools to educate, teach and help improve the mental health of kids and adolescents - in ways that allow them to relate to these issues using tools that are, for many, a centerpiece in their own lifestyle.

"I am thrilled to be making Selfie films that can successfully compete artistically in film festivals and then can also be used as important educational tools in and out of the classroom to assist in opening the doors to better mental health for kids, tweens and teens. Let me give an example, 'The Truth, a Short Film' is made up of sixteen scenes that are filmed by the star, Cassidy Terracciano, on her cell phone. Directed by me, but ultimately left by herself to film, using her iphone the scenes, adapted from my book, 'The Truth, Diary of a Gutsy Tween', we experience an intimacy with the actress that is amazing.  Like most of us, left alone in the shower we reach our ultimate singing voice, I believe that directing but then letting kids do the filming by themselves without a crew watching, is to the advantage for the audience,the material and the actor."

"I present the kinds of issues, that left unchecked and not understood by the child and/or family members, can lead to depression, eating disorders, panic attacks, poor grades, drugs and even the ultimate worst, suicide.  That's because nothing is trivial when we are growing up.  A crush that goes bad, a decision to move to a new town, friends left behind, parents fighting or maybe a divorce, friends teasing or bullying, all of these situations and many more can lead to a mental health crisis for a particular child." 

"However, I do not tell a dark story.  My films are uplifting and entertaining.  The central characters find workable and uplifting solutions to their problems.  The audience laughs, groans, remembers when they were that age, and are ready to start important conversations.  I believe that combining potentially serious developmental subjects in a new form of filmmaking will result in happier kids, more successful parenting and mental health care when necessary in a more timely fashion."

Holstein's short films have won numerous awards and accolades. 'The Truth - A Short Film' premiered at the Garden State Film Festival and its song, 'On The Edge of Something New' won the award as the best pop song of 2016. The short two minute film by Dr. Holstein, 'The Truth, A Short Short Film', premiered at FilmOneFest in July. The film was chosen as an Official Selection in the Chain Film Festival held in Manhattan on August 13, 2016. The film was also selected by the Jersey City International Television and Film Festival (JCITFF), and was shown on November 5, 2016 at the Jersey City International Television and Film Festival. 'The Truth - A Short Film' was officially selected for the Golden Door International Film Festival held in September 2016.  Recently, it was shown at The Grove Film Festival in Jersey City and on May 21, 2017, the shorter version was shown at The Hang On To Your Shorts Film Festival in Asbury Park, New Jersey. 'The Truth - A Short Film' was an official selection for the virtual Female Filmmakers Film Festival held on the web.  There was a public voting of favorite films and 'The Truth' came in 12th of 92 films.

The second film, 'Falling in Love, A Coming of Age, Selfie Film, is detailed in a new ebook: 'A Selfie Film - Falling In Love' by Dr. Holstein. This ebook details many of the issues and stories behind the creation of Dr. Holstein's "selfie films", which utilize cutting edge New Media technology. These films are Selfie Films assisted by a professional camera crew, resulting in an intensity and intimacy of performance. The topics and questions for discussion in the book can be used by a group of two, a parent and a child, or a group of hundreds as the universal subjects of growing up and handling tough issues are discussed. 

'Falling in Love'  was an official selection at the Brightside Tavern Film Festival in Jersey City in early March, nominated for several awards, including 'Best Experimental Film' and 'Best New Jersey Short'.  It came in second place for 'Best New Jersey Short'.

'Falling in Love' was an official selection also at The Hang On To Your Shorts Film Festival in Asbury Park on May 21, 2017.  It was nominated for several awards, including Best Experimental Film, and Best Concept Film.  Megan Brown, a high school freshman, who stars in 'Falling in Love' received the 'Rising Star Award' for her acting performance in 'Falling in Love' at this Festival.

On June 19, 2017, at 7:00 PM, 'The Truth', and 'Falling in Love' will be shown at the Monmouth County District Library in Shrewsbury, followed by a talk and Q&A led by Dr. Holstein.

'The Truth, A Coming of Age, Selfie Film' is now available to download.  It is distributed by Cinecosmos.net which brings a universe of diverse independent content right to consumers. Cinecosmos specializes in historical, medical, parody, and psychological storylines.

Recently Dr. Holstein attended for the sixth time, Author's Day at the Ocean Township Intermediate School where she presented film excerpts from both 'The Truth' and 'Falling in Love' to sixth graders.  They were able to watch at the same time, yet separately on their tablets. Comments included how genuine the girl's emotions were, how parents can't always be there to protect or understand, how hard it is to move to a new town, the real issues of having a crush, and suggestions as to how we can handle problems.

Dr. Holstein requests that any verified charitable organization interested in raising funds contact her via email. She is available for media interviews and can be reached using the information below or by email at drbarbara@enchantedself.com . Both the film and the ebook are available at http://www.payhip.com/drbholstein. All of her books are available at Amazon, Barnes and Noble and all other online retailers. More information is available at her website at http://www.NewShortFilmTheTruth.com.

Profile:

Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein, internationally known Positive Psychologist is the creator of The Enchanted Self ®, a positive psychology method for happiness. Dr. Holstein's Enchanted Self website, www.enchantedself.com, was just included as one of the best websites in positive psychology. She is in private practice in Long Branch, New Jersey with her husband, Dr. Russell M. Holstein.

Dr. Barbara can be found on the web, interviewed, writing articles and posting video 'TED' style talks on Happiness,  Positive Psychology, Relationships and Parenting.

She has been a contributor to Heart and Soul, Cosmopolitan Magazine, Redbook, Real Simple, The Wall Street Journal, Time on line, the Today Show and Family Circle Magazine.

Contact:
Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein
170 Morris Ave.,
Long Branch, New Jersey 07740
drbarbara@enchantedself.com
732-571-1200
http://www.newshortfilmthetruth.com
http://www.thetruthforgirls.com
http://www.selfiesasfilm.com

Leia Mais…

For Teens In Trouble, Hope And Courage Are Offered In Dr Barbara Becker Holstein's Award Winning Selfie Films, Books And Stage Play

Dr. Holstein, a psychologist/filmmaker and originator of a unique Selfie Film concept, writes award-winning books, plays and produces short films that offer solutions to problems that impact today's teens and tweens

Teen suicide is the subject of a very popular book and television series entitled 'Thirteen Reasons Why'. Teen suicide has many causes, but the paths to prevention are few. In the simplest terms possible, suicide prevention is a question of empowerment. Teens must feel as though they have the power to overcome challenges - regardless of what those challenges might be. Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein's cutting edge selfie films and books for teens draw clear maps to empowerment that can help any teen overcome any challenge. She accomplishes this by utilizing a format that teens understand - selfie films.

"There are differences between my films and 'Thirteen Reasons Why'," Dr Holstein stated. "Aside from a difference in production costs involving millions of dollars, my films are reminders of hope and courage in all the angst and despair one may feel growing up.  'The Truth, Falling in Love' and 'Secrets, are teaching films in that we get to understand adolescence better. Grown-ups have simply forgotten many of the emotional aches and pains of growing up. They need to be reminded.  Kids are living these moods and emotions right now, but don't know how to evaluate how they feel and often don't know how to reach solutions to challenging situations they are in.  My films help both kids and adults by providing the information they need.  For example, in 'Secrets, A Coming of Age, Selfie Film', based on themes in Secrets, Diary of a Gutsy Teen, the girl is filled with normal feelings of jealousy and worry as she waits for her mom to have a baby.  Two things happen that are important.  When she sees the baby she realizes she has the capacity for positive feelings toward her new sister. Also, her mom is smart and makes her feel that she is still extremely important and loved.  This is learning material. Watching the film and discussing it helps kids and adults see how our emotions shift and can move from hurt and jealousy to affection and caring.  Also, we learn how important it is for parents to say the right things at the right time."

"My films are carefully designed to connect with young people and to arouse feelings and memories in adults.  They are raw and real, as much of the filming is done by the actress with her own iphone, augmented at times with a B-roll team of camera people. Is the lighting perfect? No. Is the sound totally even? No.  Do the films teach, give hope, tell a real slice of life so touching that the audience laughs and sighs from deep in their bellies? Yes."

Holstein's short films have won numerous awards and accolades. 'The Truth - A Short Film' premiered at the Garden State Film Festival and its song, 'On The Edge of Something New' won the award as the best pop song of 2016. The short two minute film by Dr. Holstein, 'The Truth, A Short Short Film', premiered at FilmOneFest in July. The film was chosen as an Official Selection in the Chain Film Festival held in Manhattan on August 13, 2016. The film was also selected by the Jersey City International Television and Film Festival (JCITFF), and was shown on November 5, 2016 at the Jersey City International Television and Film Festival. 'The Truth - A Short Film' was officially selected for the Golden Door International Film Festival held in September 2016.  Recently, it was shown at The Grove Film Festival in Jersey City and on May 21, 2017, the shorter version will be shown at The Hang On To Your Shorts Film Festival in Asbury Park, New Jersey, where it is up for an award as Best Experimental Short Film. And to top it off, 'The Truth - A Short Film' was an official selection for the virtual Female Filmmakers Film Festival held on the web.  There was a public voting of favorite films and 'The Truth' came in 12th of 92 films.

The second film, 'Falling in Love, A Coming of Age, Selfie Film, is detailed in a new ebook: 'A Selfie Film - Falling In Love' by Dr. Holstein. This ebook details many of the issues and stories behind the creation of Dr. Holstein's "selfie films", which utilize cutting edge New Media technology. These films are Selfie Films assisted by a professional camera crew, resulting in an intensity and intimacy of performance. The topics and questions for discussion in the book can be used by a group of two, a parent and a child, or a group of hundreds as the universal subjects of growing up and handling tough issues are discussed. 

'Falling in Love' is was an official selection at the Brightside Tavern Film Festival in Jersey City in early March, nominated for several awards, including 'Best Experimental Film' and 'Best New Jersey Short'.  It came in second place for 'Best New Jersey Short'.  It will be shown on May 21st at The Hang On To Your Shorts Film Festival in Asbury Park.  It is up for several awards, including 'Best Experimental Film' and 'Best New Concept in a Film'.  On June 19, 2017, 'The Truth', 'Falling in Love' and 'Secrets' will be shown at the Monmouth County District Library in Shrewsbury. 

Exciting news is that 'The Truth, A Coming of Age, Selfie Film' is now available to download.  It is distributed by Cinecosmos.net which brings a universe of diverse independent content right to consumers. Cinecosmos specializes in historical, medical, parody, and psychological storylines.

On March 29, 2017 Dr. Holstein attended for the sixth time, Author's Day at the Ocean Township Intermediate School where she presented film excerpts from both 'The Truth' and 'Falling in Love' to sixth graders.  They were able to watch at the same time, yet separately on their tablets. Comments included how genuine the girl's emotions were, how parents can't always be there to protect or understand, how hard it is to move to a new town, the real issues of having a crush, and suggestions as to how we can handle problems.

Dr. Holstein is also partnering with charitable organizations who focus on helping young girls overcome challenges. She allows her films to be used as fundraising tools.

Dr. Holstein requests that any verified charitable organization interested in raising funds contact her via email. She is available for media interviews and can be reached using the information below or by email at drbarbara@enchantedself.com. Both the film and the ebook are available at http://www.payhip.com/drbholstein. All of her books are available at Amazon, Barnes and Noble and all other online retailers. More information is available at her website at http://www.NewShortFilmTheTruth.com.

Profile:

Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein, internationally known Positive Psychologist is the creator of The Enchanted Self ®, a positive psychology method for happiness. Dr. Holstein's Enchanted Self website, www.enchantedself.com, was just included as one of the best websites in positive psychology. She is in private practice in Long Branch, New Jersey with her husband, Dr. Russell M. Holstein.

Dr. Barbara can be found on the web, interviewed, writing articles and posting video 'TED' style talks on Happiness,  Positive Psychology, Relationships and Parenting.

She has been a contributor to Heart and Soul, Cosmopolitan Magazine, Redbook, Real Simple, The Wall Street Journal, Time on line, the Today Show and Family Circle Magazine.

Contact:

Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein
170 Morris Ave.,
Long Branch, New Jersey 07740
drbarbara@enchantedself.com
732-571-1200
http://www.newshortfilmthetruth.com
http://www.thetruthforgirls.com
http://www.selfiesasfilm.com

Leia Mais…

New Ebook, 'A Selfie Film, Falling In Love' By Positive Psychologist Barbara Becker Holstein Leads Creative Charge For Girls And Women Filmmakers

Dr. Holstein's award-winning books, plays and short films offer solutions to problems that impact today's teens and tweens and helps them develop positive self esteem

A recent article in the New York Times entitled "Nina Jacobson Has Her Revenge on Hollywood’s Old-Boy Network" presented some startling facts that are nothing but good news for forward thinking film creators. Jacobson heads up Color Force, the company behind 'The Hunger Games'. A link in that article led to a study by USC that showed that gender inequality is relatively unchanged in Hollywood. Barbara Becker Holstein is helping to break down both the gender barriers and old school filmmaking through the use of cutting edge film techniques that resonate strongly with young people.

"As a woman filmmaker and a psychologist, I find that not only are there important stories tied into coming of age to tell, but there are so many new ways to use technology to tell these stories in film," Holstein stated. "I am proud do be an innovator in the above. In my latest film, 'Falling in Love, A Coming of Age Selfie Film', I've taken an historically important part of growing up, falling in love, told a story about the experience and used new technology to make the film.  Megan Brown who plays 'the Girl', used her own iPhone to film all of her scenes.  Not only that, she chose her own costumes, chose many of the settings and even improvised lines in some of the scenes.  Giving the camera to this young actress was a step to her becoming more intimately involved with her part and the project.  It also was a step to releasing her creative eye for film. Of course we had a small crew of two camera people for B role shots and scenes.  But the real constant work over many months was done by Megan and myself.  Me directing her, but from a distance via phone and e-mail.  She performing on her own terms.  Of course a good plot had to be there. The rest of the crew and actors had to be there, but the essence of the production happened privately and only Megan was there, until she uploaded her scenes to me.  It was a fabulous experience and I believe it stands at the Gateway of the Selfie becoming one more art form in the brilliant arena of fine films.

"Megan Brown as a Selfie actress follows in the steps of another girl who did something creative and slightly defiant this year.  The Times article, 'An 11-Year-Old Girl Who Calls the Tune for Latinas' tells how Saiai Gonzalez added her beat of creativity and acting skills to a film that in its own way defied anti-Latino rhetoric of the Trump campaign.

"All of this is great news for girls and women in our culture.  We want our vision and ways of thinking about the world to be 'out there' in the world at large, at every level from politics to art to business.  That can't happen until there is equality in Hollywood.  'Fighting Hollywood's Old-Boy Mentality' in the New York Times is a great start.  Nina Jacobson is out there as a diversity-minded producer.  Good for her and good for Megan Brown and Sarai Gonzalez."

Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein is a visionary who combines Positive Psychology with filmmaking and books to help young girls build self esteem. Dr. Holstein understands at a very deep level the importance of media in the lives of young people. She reaches young people by using the tools they engage with today. Using cutting edge technology, she presents important concepts via New Media films that combine the technology of the video Selfie with a standard film crew. She helps young girls make sense out of a topsy-turvy, selfie-facebook-video-film based reality.

She recently released a new ebook,'A Selfie Film, Falling in Love', based on her successful book for teens and tweens, 'Secrets, Diary of a Gutsy Teen'. In that falling in love is undoubtedly one of the most important events in a teen's life, she addresses that issue squarely.

Dr. Holstein believes in the power of the Selfie as a new film art form and as a way for girls to gain power.  One of Dr. Holstein's recent short films, 'The Truth - A Short Film' uses the selfie concept to paint a portrait of a young girl. The new short film shows us how the girl attempts to deal with life changing problems, concerns, challenges and issues all young girls face. The result is an eye-opening, in-depth exploration of her life, giving the viewer the distinct impression that they have been somehow magically embedded into that life. If the selfie concept were be transformed into an art form, 'The Truth' would be the result. This film premiered at the Garden State Film Festival and its song, 'On The Edge of Something New' won the award as the best pop song of 2016.

The short two minute film by Dr. Holstein, 'The Truth, A Short Short Film', premiered at FilmOneFest in July. The film was chosen as an Official Selection in the Chain Film Festival held in Manhattan on August 13, 2016. The film was also selected by the Jersey City International Television and Film Festival (JCITFF), and was shown on Saturday, November 5 2016 at the Jersey City International Television and Film Festival.

'The Truth, a Short Film', a longer 16 minute portrayal of a girl growing up, was officially selected for the Golden Door International Film Festival held in September 2016. The Rahway International Film Festival chose the 2 minute version as an Official Selection.

Dr. Holstein's entire body of work is great for parents, grandparents, older siblings and teachers to establish lines of communication with the tweens and teens in their lives. Her books have received numerous awards. A recent review of Dr. Holstein's book, 'Secrets', stated, "This book should ideally be stocked in the home libraries of families with children and in school libraries worldwide."

'The Truth' focuses on how teens communicate their deepest needs. A trailer from her new short film, 'The Truth', an Official Choice of the Garden State Film Festival, is available at www.thetruthforgirls.com.  The trailer captures the world of technology and its public nature with the intense needs of a young girl to share her most private and most intimate thoughts, feelings, ideas and secrets.

A sequel to 'The Truth',  'Falling in Love, A Coming of Age, Selfie Film', staring Megan Brown, has just finished production. In this first film, which will someday be part of  a trilogy, based on 'Secrets, Diary of a Gutsy Teen', a girl shares her feelings and emotions, and pain as she falls in love, making Selfie Videos of herself.  Whether these are another form of the old fashioned diary, or whether she is reaching out to a stranger is unclear.  What is clear is her need to find someone or some place where she can share her longings and her hunger to find a home for her intense emotions. She needs to be understood, and to find peace of mind as she works her way through the adolescent storms. Dr. Holstein has already submitted for consideration 'Falling in Love, A Coming of Age, Selfie Film' to several film festivals including Garden State Film Festival and Illuminate Film Festival in Sedona, Arizona.

Dr. Holstein is available for media interviews and can be reached using the information below or by email at drbarbara@enchantedself.com. All of her books are available at Amazon, Barnes and Noble and all other online retailers. More information is available at her website at http://www.TheTruthForGirls.com.

Profile:

Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein, internationally known Positive Psychologist is the creator of The Enchanted Self ®, a positive psychology method for happiness. Dr. Holstein's Enchanted Self website, www.enchantedself.com, was just included as one of the best websites in positive psychology. She is in private practice in Long Branch, New Jersey with her husband, Dr. Russell M. Holstein.

Dr. Barbara can be found on the web, interviewed, writing articles and posting video 'TED' style talks on Happiness,  Positive Psychology, Relationships and Parenting.

She has been a contributor to Heart and Soul, Cosmopolitan Magazine, Redbook, Real Simple, The Wall Street Journal, Time on line, the Today Show and Family Circle Magazine.

Contact:

Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein
170 Morris Ave.,
Long Branch, New Jersey 07740
drbarbara@enchantedself.com
732-571-1200
http://www.newshortfilmthetruth.com
http://www.thetruthforgirls.com

Leia Mais…

The Self Esteem Challenges Women Face Today - New Ebook, 'A Selfie Film, Falling In Love' By Positive Psychologist Barbara Becker Holstein

Dr. Holstein's award-winning books, plays and short films offer solutions to problems that impact today's teens and tweens and helps them develop positive self esteem

Young women face myriad positive self-esteem challenges in today's environment.  The concept of the glass ceiling has been brought to the forefront of the American consciousness as the result of Hillary Clinton's unsuccessful presidential bid.  Women across America held high hopes for Clinton's campaign, but it was not to be.

It is not only politics in which women face hurdles based on their gender.  Geena Davis' organization, The Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media, presents us with some sobering facts on their website.  On the site, it states that "Male characters received two times the amount of screen time as female characters in 2015 (28.5% compared to 16.0%)." And "When a film has a male lead, this gender gap is even wider, with male characters appearing on screen nearly three times more often than female characters (34.5% compared to 12.9%)."

Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein is a visionary who combines Positive Psychology with filmmaking and books to help young girls build self esteem. Dr. Holstein understands at a very deep level the importance of media in the lives of young people. She reaches young people by using the tools they engage with today. Using cutting edge technology, she presents important concepts via New Media films that combine the technology of the video Selfie with a standard film crew. She helps young girls make sense out of a topsy-turvy, selfie-facebook-video-film based reality.

She recently released a new ebook,'A Selfie Film, Falling in Love', based on her successful book for teens and tweens, 'Secrets, Diary of a Gutsy Teen'. In that falling in love is undoubtedly one of the most important events in a teen's life, she addresses that issue squarely and offers parents, grandparents and educators some advice.

Dr. Holstein comments, "In a tumultuous time for growing up, a world filled with social media, bullying and nowhere to hide. tweens and teens find themselves having to deal with the hormonal rush of puberty and the phenomenon that most of us have been through, falling in love, combined with all the other feelings and emotions of growing up.

"Perhaps you remember your first crush or that wild sensation of emotions that went with your first real kiss, or feelings of attachment so deep you couldn't imagine not being with that person for the rest of your life?  As a positive psychologist who works with many people, I can tell you that those new feelings are just as fresh and happening as when we grew up.

"The problem is that the world is a much tougher place now.  As Melania Trump states in the New York Time article, 'Melania Trump Campaigns for Civility,'  'Our culture has gotten too mean and too rough, especially for children and teenagers.'

"This sentiment was explored in the most recent issue of Time magazine, where the front cover presents us with 'Anxiety, Depression and the American Adolescent'. 

"Concerns keep coming back to the pressures of social media for children and teens.  In the old days, if we had a bad day at school, someone insulted us or even bullied us, we could come home to a sanctuary of sorts.  Once inside the door, no more contact with those kids until school tomorrow.  No more insults or remarks. As Sabrina Tavernise reported, Dr. Levy-Warren stating, in her article in the Times, 'Suicides Outnumber Traffic Deaths for Adolescents', kids are never away from social media. 'If something gets said that's hurtful or humiliating, it's not just the kid who said it who knows, it's the entire school or class.'

"It is a desperate situation for some adolescents and unpleasant for most.  What are we to do as parents, teachers, grandparents, etc?  Here are some ideas:

1. Encourage and remind kids growing up that opportunities continue to move forward for them.  Although Clinton is not our next president, now it is acceptable to run for the presidency as a woman. One day a woman will win.  Will it be your daughter or granddaughter? The glass ceiling will be cracked and broken through.  For boys, the ceiling has already been broken through with Obama as president.

2. Be real.  Don't just talk about 'stuff' like how are your marks? Get real. If you share an upset at work or feeling anxious, it will help your kids to share with you.

3. Understand that emotions and hormones don't change generation to generation, take time to share with the kids in your life how you made it through the storm of growing up.  Listen to them and when necessary protect them! Quiet hours at home with no cell phones or computers, dinners without any media on, will help to bring at least a partial sanctuary back to home time.

4. Read my newest book, 'A Selfie Film, Falling in Love', see the film clips, and discuss the discussion questions with your kids or grand kids.  Each question is carefully designed to bring generations closer and to give a change to discover good solutions that help kids grow up strong and mentally healthy even in a complex, overextended world, even as they pass through so many stages of development, like young love."

Dr. Holstein believes in the power of the Selfie as a new film art form and as a way for girls to gain power. The Selfie can be used to meet a dangerous stranger or can be used by an actress to develop a deeper authenticity with the character she is playing -  much deeper than is possible when people are watching and/or directing in real time. As is very evident in her films, both the audience and the actors feel the deepened authenticity, as the characters become so real.

One of Dr. Holstein's recent short films, 'The Truth - A Short Film' uses the selfie concept to paint a portrait of a young girl. The new short film shows us how the girl attempts to deal with life changing problems, concerns, challenges and issues all young girls face. The result is an eye-opening, in-depth exploration of her life, giving the viewer the distinct impression that they have been somehow magically embedded into that life. If the selfie concept were be transformed into an art form, 'The Truth' would be the result. This film premiered at the Garden State Film Festival and its song, 'On The Edge of Something New' won the award as the best pop song of 2016.

The short two minute film by Dr. Holstein, 'The Truth, A Short Short Film', premiered at FilmOneFest in July. The film was chosen as an Official Selection in the Chain Film Festival held in Manhattan on August 13, 2016. The film was also selected by the Jersey City International Television and Film Festival (JCITFF), and was shown on Saturday, November 5 2016 at the Jersey City International Television and Film Festival.

'The Truth, a Short Film', a longer 16 minute portrayal of a girl growing up, was officially selected for the Golden Door International Film Festival held in September 2016. The Rahway International Film Festival chose the 2 minute version as an Official Selection.

Dr. Holstein's entire body of work is great for parents, grandparents, older siblings and teachers to establish lines of communication with the tweens and teens in their lives. Her books have received numerous awards. A recent review of Dr. Holstein's book, 'Secrets', stated, "This book should ideally be stocked in the home libraries of families with children and in school libraries worldwide."

'The Truth' focuses on how teens communicate their deepest needs. A trailer from her new short film, 'The Truth', an Official Choice of the Garden State Film Festival, is available at www.thetruthforgirls.com.  The trailer captures the world of technology and its public nature with the intense needs of a young girl to share her most private and most intimate thoughts, feelings, ideas and secrets.

A sequel to 'The Truth',  'A Selfie Film, Falling in Love', starring Megan Brown, is currently in production. In this first film, which will be part of  a trilogy,  based on 'Secrets, Diary of a Gutsy Teen', a girl shares her feelings and emotions, and pain as she falls in love, making Selfie Videos of herself.  Whether these are another form of the old fashioned diary, or whether she is reaching out to a stranger is unclear.  What is clear is her need to find someone or some place where she can share her longings and her hunger to find a home for her intense emotions. She needs to be understood, and to find peace of mind as she works her way through the adolescent storms.

Dr. Holstein is available for media interviews and can be reached using the information below or by email at drbarbara@enchantedself.com. All of her books are available at Amazon, Barnes and Noble and all other online retailers. More information is available at her website at http://www.TheTruthForGirls.com.

Profile:

Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein, internationally known Positive Psychologist is the creator of The Enchanted Self ®, a positive psychology method for happiness. Dr. Holstein's Enchanted Self website, www.enchantedself.com, was just included as one of the best websites in positive psychology. She is in private practice in Long Branch, New Jersey with her husband, Dr. Russell M. Holstein.

Dr. Barbara can be found on the web, interviewed, writing articles and posting video 'TED' style talks on Happiness,  Positive Psychology, Relationships and Parenting.

She has been a contributor to Heart and Soul, Cosmopolitan Magazine, Redbook, Real Simple, The Wall Street Journal, Time on line, the Today Show and Family Circle Magazine..

Contact:

Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein
170 Morris Ave.,
Long Branch, New Jersey 07740
drbarbara@enchantedself.com
732-571-1200
http://www.newshortfilmthetruth.com
http://www.thetruthforgirls.com

Leia Mais…

Selfies, Short Films, The Geena Davis Institute And The Media's Effect On Self Esteem For Girls: Dr Barbara Becker Holstein, Psychologist, Filmmaker, Brings It All Together

Dr. Holstein's award-winning books, plays and short films offer solutions to problems that impact today's teens and tweens and helps them develop positive self esteem

Geena Davis is famous for many reasons, one of the most important being her work to bring attention to gender stereotyping in film. To that end she formed the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media. As stated on their website, the organization hopes to "engage, educate, and influence the need to dramatically improve gender balance, reduce stereotyping and create diverse female characters in entertainment targeting children 11 and under." She and her organization clearly understand that films drive our perceptions of the world and that the filmmaking industry should pay attention to how gender stereotyping and everything that results from it can affect the lives of viewers.

Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein, a visionary who combines psychology with filmmaking, approaches these issues in diverse ways. Like Ms. Davis she understands the importance of media in the lives of young people. She takes the real life issues young women face and attempts to help young people make sense out of a topsy-turvy, selfie-facebook-video-film based reality. As a Positive Psychologist who uses film to promote communication, she understands that this has become more than just another teen 'issue'. The influence technology has on teens today had become THE issue of the day. The Washington Post, Time Magazine, Huffington Post, CNN, Forbes Magazine - the sheer number of news organizations that have addressed the issue is staggering.

The New York Times Magazine recently presented an article entitled "How should you deal with social media’s constantly increasing demands? Be more like Beyoncé." Another in the Metropolitan section was entitled "From Books to Apps to Virtual Reality".

"Geena Davis's work is vitally important on many levels," Dr. Holstein stated.  "It isn't enough to present programming to youngsters that is 'safe' and perhaps educational.  Not if there are fewer characters who are female than male and not if the female characters have less important information to share or are stereotyped.

"The NYT article on social media is a great connector to my thoughts that the Selfie has the potential to be art. Facebook is a kind of constant selfie. People just haven't figured out what they should share and what they should keep to themselves.

"The 'Virtual Reality' article is about the regenerative use of technology rather than being swamped or put out of business by it.  I think of Selfie films as one of those mergers. 'Secrets' is going to have a nice integration of Selfie work and fine old fashioned camera work - more so than 'The Truth' where we were lucky we got any camera work.  Should be very interesting.

One of Dr. Holstein's recent short films, 'The Truth - A Short Film' uses the selfie concept to paint a portrait of a young girl. The new short film shows us how she attempts to deal with life changing problems, concerns, challenges and issues all young girls face. The result is an eye-opening, in-depth exploration of her life, giving viewer the distinct impression that they have been somehow magically embedded into that life. If the selfie concept were be transformed into an art form, 'The Truth' would be the result.

The short two minute film by Dr. Holstein, 'The Truth, A Short Short Film', premiered at FilmOneFest in July. The film was chosen as an Official Selection in the Chain Film Festival held in Manhattan on August 13, 2016. 'The Truth, a Short Film', a longer 16 minute portrayal of a girl growing up, has been officially selected for the Golden Door International Film Festival held in September 2016. The Rahway International Film Festival recently chose the 2 minute version as an Official Selection. Upcoming in early November is the Jersey City International Television and Film Festival, also choosing as an Official Selection, 'The Truth, a Short, Short Film.

Dr. Holstein's entire body of work is great for parents, grandparents, older siblings and teachers to establish lines of communication with the tweens and teens in their lives. Her books have received numerous awards. A recent review of Dr. Holstein's book, 'Secrets', stated, "This book should ideally be stocked in the home libraries of families with children and in school libraries worldwide."

'The Truth' focuses on how teens communicate their deepest needs. A trailer from her new short film, 'The Truth', an Official Choice of the Garden State Film Festival, is available at www.thetruthforgirls.com.  The trailer captures the world of technology and its public nature with the intense needs of a young girl to share her most private and most intimate thoughts, feelings, ideas and secrets.

A sequel to 'The Truth', 'Secrets', starring Megan Brown, is currently in production. In the sequel, based on 'Secrets, Diary of a Gutsy Teen', a girl continues to keep both a virtual diary on her cell phone and a paper diary.  She is a year older and although she has matured, her longings and her hunger to find a home for her feelings and intense emotions are even stronger.

Dr. Holstein is available for media interviews and can be reached using the information below or by email at drbarbara@enchantedself.com. All of her books are available at Amazon, Barnes and Noble and all other online retailers. More information is available at her website at http://www.TheTruthForGirls.com.

Profile:

Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein, internationally known Positive Psychologist is the creator of The Enchanted Self ®, a positive psychology method for happiness. Dr. Holstein's Enchanted Self website, www.enchantedself.com, was just included as one of the best websites in positive psychology. She is in private practice in Long Branch, New Jersey with her husband, Dr. Russell M. Holstein.

Dr. Barbara can be found on the web, interviewed, writing articles and posting video 'TED' style talks on Happiness,  Positive Psychology, Relationships and Parenting.

She has been a contributor to Heart and Soul, Cosmopolitan Magazine, Redbook, Real Simple, The Wall Street Journal, Time on line, the Today Show and Family Circle Magazine.

Contact:

Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein
170 Morris Ave.,
Long Branch, New Jersey 07740
drbarbara@enchantedself.com
732-571-1200
http://www.newshortfilmthetruth.com
http://www.thetruthforgirls.com

Leia Mais…

New Short Film 'The Truth' By Dr Barbara Becker Holstein Turns Selfie Concept Into Powerful Film To Reach Teens And Tweens

Dr. Holstein's award-winning books, plays and short films offer solutions to problems that impact today's teens and tweens and helps them develop positive self esteem

Without any doubt, the most difficult challenge parents, grandparents and educators face is how to impact the lives of teens and tweens in ways that enhance the child's interest and encourage participation without turning them off or causing resistance. Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein has found a way to do just that - short films based on the concept of the selfie, in which young people present their innermost feelings, challenges and concerns. This new short film concept is, in a word, genius.

A recent story on The New York Times website featured a new web series, 'Ocean Parkway', which takes its 'quirky' characters from the neighborhood streets. The series looks at Brooklyn through the eyes of two tweens and their parents. That web series has now been pitched to HBO with four episodes and is under consideration for development.

"There are not enough series, nor films that reflect the ordinary lives of people in a meaningful way and that can be watched by all ages," Dr. Holstein stated. "My life work, as a positive psychologist, is based on the belief that listening to ordinary kids, tweens, teens, and adults and deeply understanding their needs, passions, feelings, longings and goals is the best way to get real understanding, compassion and problem solving going. The results are often extraordinary, as strengths, talents and potential begin to emerge.

"'The Truth, a Short Film' and now in production, 'Secrets' both reflect the ordinary and the extraordinary of girls, tweens and teens in our society. In each film, a young girl, moving from being a tween to a teen, confronts all the issues of her life. She has angst and joy, troubles and fun while dealing with everything from falling in love, to family upsets, to struggling with loss, to finding ways to hold on to the best of herself as her life continues to unfold."

The short two minute film by Dr. Holstein, 'The Truth, A Short Short Film', premiered at FilmOneFest in July. The film was chosen as an Official Selection in the Chain Film Festival held in Manhattan on August 13, 2016. 'The Truth, a Short Film', a longer 16 minute portrayal of a girl growing up, has been officially selected for the Golden Door International Film Festival to be held in September 2016. The Rahway International Film Festival recently chose the 2 minute version as an Official Selection.

"Yes, the character, based on the 'girl' in my two books, 'The Truth' and 'Secrets' is both ordinary and extraordinary.  But there is another twist to all of this.  And that is the use of the Selfie in film making.

ScreenshotBarbara"In both of these films, the actual actress, in 'The Truth',  Cassidy Terracciano, and in 'Secrets' Megan Brown, not only play the part of 'the girl' but they do their own filming via their phones. This is an incredible leap in filmmaking.  I directed both girls, but not at the moments they finally filmed themselves. They did that at home alone in the privacy of the merger of themselves with the character.  I'm excited to see the use of selfies not only enhancing the actor's capacities to make the character come alive, but resulting in a  film that is a more intimate, 'real' artistic experience, for the viewer. 

"And the results? Fabulous. 'The Truth' in its two versions has already been accepted by a number of film festivals.  The most recent being the Rahway International Film Festival which chose as an Official Selection, the 2 minute version, 'The Truth, a Short, Short Film'.

"What does this mean for the phenomenon of Selfies? I think it means that allowing a person to get closer to herself, whether that means capturing on video or in pictures oneself via Seflies or whether it means merging the deepest parts of an actress with the character at hand has tremendous potential for mental health and for filmmaking."

Dr. Holstein's entire body of work is great for parents, grandparents, older siblings and teachers to establish lines of communication with the tweens and teens in their lives. Her books have received numerous awards. A recent review of Dr. Holstein's book, 'Secrets', stated, "This book should ideally be stocked in the home libraries of families with children and in school libraries worldwide."

'The Truth' focuses on how teens communicate their deepest needs. A trailer from her new short film, 'The Truth', an Official Choice of the Garden State Film Festival, is available at www.thetruthforgirls.com.  The trailer captures the world of technology and its public nature with the intense needs of a young girl to share her most private and most intimate thoughts, feelings, ideas and secrets.

"In today's world of likes, lols and longing to be seen, noticed, validated, talked about, often by 'friends' only known virtually, where are her deepest thoughts and longings going? Both the trailer, even in 47 seconds and the film 'The Truth, A Short Film' of 16 minutes are great to use to get kids and parents talking about today's social media world that we all live in."

A sequel to 'The Truth', 'Secrets', starring Megan Brown,  is currently in production.  In the sequel, based on 'Secrets, Diary of a Gutsy Teen', a girl continues to keep both a virtual diary on her cell phone and a paper diary.  She is a year older and although she has matured, her longings and her hunger to find a home for her feelings and intense emotions are even stronger.

Dr. Holstein is available for media interviews and can be reached using the information below or by email at drbarbara@enchantedself.com. All of her books are available at Amazon, Barnes and Noble and all other online retailers. More information is available at her website at http://www.TheTruthForGirls.com.

Profile:

Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein, internationally known Positive Psychologist is the creator of The Enchanted Self ®, a positive psychology method for happiness. Dr. Holstein's Enchanted Self website, www.enchantedself.com, was just included as one of the best websites in positive psychology. She is in private practice in Long Branch, New Jersey with her husband, Dr. Russell M. Holstein.

Dr. Barbara can be found on the web, interviewed, writing articles and posting video 'TED' style talks on Happiness,  Positive Psychology, Relationships and Parenting.

She has been a contributor to Heart and Soul, Cosmopolitan Magazine, Redbook, Real Simple, The Wall Street Journal, Time on line, the Today Show and Family Circle Magazine.

Contact:

Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein
170 Morris Ave.,
Long Branch, New Jersey 07740
drbarbara@enchantedself.com
732-571-1200
http://www.newshortfilmthetruth.com
http://www.thetruthforgirls.com

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Top Books For Christmas - 'The Truth' and 'Secrets' By Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein Help Tweens and Teens Develop Healthy Approaches To Growing Up

It used to be a diary. Now it's social media and selfies. Nothing has really changed, other than the tools kids use to deal the angst of growing up. It is vitally urgent that parents understand how to help them cope

Teens and tweens today face challenges that parents, grandparents and educators struggle to understand. While many of those problems are the issues faced by nearly everyone, the ramifications of how those challenges are addressed have changed dramatically. The advent of social media, selfies and other forms of electronic communication have, in many ways, increased the dangers kids face. What has not changed is the need for parents to understand and to be involved. Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein addresses these issues head-on in her book for teens, 'The Truth'.

" 'I hate my mother';  'I'm in love and I can't imagine marrying anyone else when I grow up';   'How can we move now,  I can't leave all my friends behind';   'I'm miserable and nobody understands';  'I can't stand it when my parents fight'; 'When I grow up I will do things differently'".

"The list could go on and on," Dr Holstein stated. "Growing up is tough and quite frankly, it always has been.  What makes it different now is kids move from telling secrets to their friends and isolating in their bedrooms to the world of social media.  That means that any feelings, thoughts, ideas or pictures or videos of themselves that they express on social media can appear on Facebook, or Instagram, selfies and other technologies." 

ScreenshotBarbara"That's the part of the angst of growing up that is new.  The use of social media can be dangerous as it exposed our kids to strangers and often to their own remarks, pictures or videos that they wish they hadn't shared, perhaps a month or years later."

"Both The Truth, Diary of a Gutsy Tween' and 'Secrets, Diary of a Gutsy Teen', give parents a great place to start communicating about the angst of growing up with their daughters. These coming of age books in the form of written diaries by a girl growing faster than her moods and feelings can keep up with, give parents a perfect opportunity to share their own stories of growing up and to make your daughter more comfortable to come to you with her feelings and problems.

"The surest way to protect your child from excessive and poorly thought out exposure to social media is to make sure the door is always open for her to come to you.  After all, most kids just need to be heard and understood.  Who better, than you to fill that mission? My suggestion is that after your daughter reads one or both of the books you get together to chat about the thought provoking questions in the back of the books."

"I take the subject of social media so seriously, that recently I've produced a short film, 'The Truth' in which the 'Girl' has many of the usual problems and feelings of growing up.  She does keep a written diary, but she has also made the leap to potentially placing her entries on Social Meda, by recording her video diary entries on her cell phone.The Film Festival route is about to start for 'The Truth, a Short Film' so look for more information at www.newshortfilmthetruth.com and of course on social media."

"The Truth, Diary Of A Gutsy Tween" is a revised and expanded edition of her very successful book, 'The Truth: I'm a Girl, I'm Smart and I Know Everything'. The new book is published by Sky Pony Press.

Her second book in The Truth Series is “Secrets: Diary Of A Gutsy Teen”. The book has been awarded a Silver Medal in the 2015 Moonbeam Book Awards in the Pre-Teen Fiction category. In 'Secrets' the girl is 13 years old. She handles many adolescent issues, including a crush, moving, a death in the family, feeling fat and problems with girlfriends.  'Secrets' provides a book kids and parents and grandparents can share and use as a sounding board for needed communication between the generations.

Both “The Truth” and “Secrets” are great for parents, grandparents, older siblings and teachers to establish lines of communication with the tweens and teens in their lives. Both books have been re-released by Sky Pony Press. Both make perfect Christmas books for teens and tweens.

Dr. Holstein is available for media interviews and can be reached using the information below or by email at drbarbara@enchantedself.com. All of her works are available at Amazon, Barnes and Noble and all other online retailers. More information on 'The Truth' is available at her website at http://www.TheTruthForGirls.com. General information can be found at http://www.drbholstein.com. Information on the film can be found at http://www.NewShortFilmTheTruth.com,

Profile:

Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein, internationally known Positive Psychologist is the creator of The Enchanted Self ®, a positive psychology method for happiness.  She is in private practice in Long Branch, New Jersey with her husband, Dr. Russell M. Holstein.

Dr. Barbara can be found on the web, interviewed, writing articles and posting video 'TED' style talks on Happiness,  Positive Psychology, Relationships and Parenting.

She has been a contributor to Heart and Soul, Cosmopolitan Magazine, Redbook, Real Simple, The Wall Street Journal, Time on line, the Today Show and Family Circle Magazine.

Contact:

Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein
170 Morris Ave.,
Long Branch, New Jersey 07740
drbarbara@enchantedself.com
732-571-1200
http://www.newshortfilmthetruth.com

Leia Mais…