
What does it really mean to “succeed” in 2025—and how can we help our kids get there without burning out?
In this honest, insightful, and timely webinar, Dr. Patty Crisostomo, licensed clinical psychologist at Children’s Health Council (CHC), joins Genavae Pierre Dixon, Mental Health & Wellness Supervisor at PAUSD, and Rani Jayakumar, VP of Health & Wellness for the Palo Alto Council of PTAs (PTAC), to explore how we can better support student wellbeing in high-achieving communities.
Moderated by CHC’s outreach team, the conversation balances expert insight with real-world perspectives from families navigating these pressures today.
What you’ll learn in this presentation:
- How chronic stress impacts youth mental health
- The difference between healthy striving and perfectionism
- Cultural, academic, and socioeconomic pressures teens face today
- CBT vs. DBT and how these therapies support emotional wellness
- Actionable ways to build resilience, rest, and community
- A fresh framework for defining success beyond grades and college admissions

Watch the video:
Palo Alto Unified School District Presentation, May 5, 2025
View the slides:
Download a PDF of the slides.
