John! Thank you so much for writing this. At age 43, I'm realizing this is what happened to me when I was in school around the same age! I am also learning about executive function and emotional regulation (mine are "weak" and knowing that helps). I also realize I likely have adult ADHD or ADD and had that as a child. It's pretty mind-blowing, in a wonderful way. Now that I can label the issues, I can better address them.

You sound like a fantastic counselor! I'm sorry yours was detrimental when you were a tween.