My mom didn't respond immediately, focused on serving the mouthwatering food onto our plates. Once everything was ready, she turned to me with a smile and replied, "Sure, sweetheart. Go ahead and ask me whatever you want."

I fidgeted with my food, mustering up the courage to ask my mom for something I desperately needed. In a slightly unsure voice, I requested, "Can you take me to see a psychologist, Mom?"

My mom seemed surprised by my request and echoed back, "A psychologist, sweetheart?"

I ...