Michael Thompson

Michael G. Thompson, Ph. D., is a distinguished consultant, author, and psychologist who specializes in children and families. He holds the position of supervising psychologist at the Belmont Hill School and has an extensive background in working with over 700 schools both in the United States and internationally, including institutions in Central America, Europe, Africa, and Asia.

Thompson and his co-author, Dan Kindlon, penned the New York Times best-selling book "Raising Cain: Protecting the Emotional Life of Boys." His authorship extends to "Speaking of Boys: Answers to the Most-Asked Questions about Raising Sons" and he has collaborated with Catherine O’Neill Grace and Larry Cohen, Ph.D., on "Best Friends/Worst Enemies: Understanding the Social Lives of Children" and "Mom, They’re Teasing Me: Helping Your Child Solve Social Problems." Another significant work includes "The Pressured Child: Helping Your Child Achieve Success in School and in Life," which offers insights into the academic and emotional journey of children. His book "It’s a Boy!: Understanding Your Son’s Development from Birth to Eighteen," published in 2008, highlights the critical role of unstructured play in children's development. He also wrote and released "Homesick and Happy: How Time Away From Parents Can Help a Child Grow" in 2012, further exploring the benefits of independent experiences for children.

A prolific speaker and media presence, Thompson has been featured on prominent TV programs such as "The Today Show," "The Oprah Winfrey Show," "ABC 20/20," "CBS 60 Minutes," "The Early Show," and "Good Morning America." His insights have been included in major publications like the New York Times, The Washington Post, and Time. He also contributed to the public discourse on child psychology through his narration and hosting of the two-hour PBS documentary "Raising Cain," which aired nationally in 2006.

Thompson has previously served on the board of the American Camping Association and continues to offer his expertise on the Advisory Board of Parent Magazine. Residing in Arlington, Massachusetts, he is married to Dr. Theresa McNally, a psychotherapist, and enjoys family life with his two adult children and two granddaughters. Through his extensive work, Thompson addresses vital topics in child development and parenting, including the psychological impact of schooling and the emotional complexities faced by boys.