http://www.goodtherapy.org/-article.html Latest articles Thu, 26 Jan 2012 19:15:24 GMT en-us http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/impulsivity-african-american-girls-bulimia-0209123/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/impulsivity-african-american-girls-bulimia-0209123/ Fri, 10 Feb 2012 03:00:33 GMT New research conducted over 9 years and involving African American girls shows that impulsivity and lack of behavioral control contribute to disordered eating, specifically bulimia. Oppositional behavior was not found to be a predictor of bulimia, as was previously thought.... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/facebook-social-support-adults-0209122/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/facebook-social-support-adults-0209122/ Thu, 9 Feb 2012 22:00:55 GMT A recent study shows that as young people's social network expands, the number of more superficial relationships also increases. It is possible that people may begin to rely on the social support gained from self-disclosure to an ever-increasing audience and display more narcissistic behaviors.... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/depression-cant-be-cured-0209124/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/depression-cant-be-cured-0209124/ Thu, 9 Feb 2012 18:55:54 GMT Cynthia W. Lubow, MS, MFT - For people who experience major depression, which can be disabling, it can be hard those around them to fully understand what they are feeling and how best to support them. Once people have experienced several episodes, they become more vulnerable to future deep depression.... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/6-genetic-risk-factors-schizophrenia-0209121/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/6-genetic-risk-factors-schizophrenia-0209121/ Thu, 9 Feb 2012 16:42:04 GMT A new study involving participants with a family history of schizotypal personality disorder identified 6 genetic risk factors not present in the controls or in people at risk for substance abuse or depression. This information may eventually help clinicians better identify those at risk.... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/depression-abstinence-drugs-alcohol-0208122/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/depression-abstinence-drugs-alcohol-0208122/ Wed, 8 Feb 2012 22:00:55 GMT In a study of abstinence self-efficacy (ASE) in young adults who seek treatment for substance abuse problems, findings showed that those participants with major depressive disorder had lower rates of ASE, but after treatment their ASE improved. ... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/goodtherapy-weekly-inspirational-thoughts/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/goodtherapy-weekly-inspirational-thoughts/ Wed, 8 Feb 2012 21:00:51 GMT February 8, 2012 - All artists know that waiting until the light is right is the key to bringing out the deepest colors and capturing the nuance and mystery provided by the shadows. This principle may apply to the way we interact with one another as well  :-) For more inspirational quotes from GoodTherapy.org, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/GoodTherapy.org?sk=app_136751473084647">Like us on Facebook</a>! December 7, 2011 - Our inspirational thought this week is reflective of our Elements of Good Therapy and emphasizes the importance of compassion in our everyday lives. When viewing oth... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/couples-therapy-blame-contempt-0208125/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/couples-therapy-blame-contempt-0208125/ Wed, 8 Feb 2012 19:37:01 GMT Brent J. Atkinson, Ph.D. - Eventually, unhealthy habits develop in all long-term intimate relationships, and if partners want to move beyond this pain, they must learn to accept responsibility for their part in the difficulties they are experiencing and begin to heal old wounds. ... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/dealing-with-troubled-youth-bullying-0208124/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/dealing-with-troubled-youth-bullying-0208124/ Wed, 8 Feb 2012 17:51:45 GMT Kacee Tannenbaum, LCSW - There are many steps parents can take to prevent bullying or to help a child who is being bullied, but oftentimes the child will not come to parents for help. It is important for parents to be aware of and watch out for the warning signs in their children.... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/discrimination-harmful-psychological-effects-0208121/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/discrimination-harmful-psychological-effects-0208121/ Wed, 8 Feb 2012 16:58:40 GMT A recent study involving Latino participants showed that perceptions of frequent low-level discrimination and infrequent extreme discrimination are more harmful in terms of producing anxiety and depression than less frequent high-level discrimination.... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/cannabis-psychosis-sexual-abuse-0207123/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/cannabis-psychosis-sexual-abuse-0207123/ Wed, 8 Feb 2012 03:00:30 GMT New research into cannabis use and psychosis is showing that survivors of childhood sexual abuse who also were cannabis users as teens are more likely to experience psychosis than survivors who were not cannabis users.... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/resiliency-maladaptive-ptsd-behaviors-0207122/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/resiliency-maladaptive-ptsd-behaviors-0207122/ Tue, 7 Feb 2012 22:00:27 GMT In people with posttraumatic stress disorder, behaviors learned in childhood can lead to either resilience or pathology as adults. Therapists can help clients learn to turn maladaptive behaviors into strengths.... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/a-season-of-grieving-0207125/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/a-season-of-grieving-0207125/ Tue, 7 Feb 2012 20:01:10 GMT Tammy Blackard Cook, LCSW - Through the experience of losing her father, one woman gains a new appreciation for the depth of connection between her parents, the love and loyalty that drive the surviving family members to pull together, and the ongoing connection between the living and the dead.... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/put-them-chiefs-desk-0207124/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/put-them-chiefs-desk-0207124/ Tue, 7 Feb 2012 18:47:11 GMT Cedar Barstow, M.Ed., C.H.T. - Even in situations where the power differential is extreme, such as in prison, there are ways for people to maintain their self-esteem and personal power through making choices about their own behavior. ... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/new-baby-sibling-opposition-0207121/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/new-baby-sibling-opposition-0207121/ Tue, 7 Feb 2012 17:14:35 GMT Research shows that for the most part, parents worry needlessly about how the arrival of a new baby will affect their firstborn. It is recommended that future research focus on dealing with specific, isolated problem behaviors rather than taking a broadband approach.... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/postpartum-anxiety-depression-infants-0206123/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/postpartum-anxiety-depression-infants-0206123/ Tue, 7 Feb 2012 03:00:01 GMT Worry and rumination in certain circumstances is normal in new mothers, but for those with postpartum depression and anxiety, this worry can result in a change in affect that can influence their relationship with their babies.... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/social-phobia-anxiety-italian-children-0206122/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/social-phobia-anxiety-italian-children-0206122/ Mon, 6 Feb 2012 22:00:45 GMT Italian researchers are adopting screening tools used in the United States to assess social phobia and anxiety in children in order to help provide early interventions. They aim to help prevent future psychological problems, social difficulties, and substance misuse for these children as they grow up..... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/price-for-being-perfect-child-0206125/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/price-for-being-perfect-child-0206125/ Mon, 6 Feb 2012 19:05:38 GMT In one client's experience, striving to be the perfect child led to an adult life in which she found herself unable to assert herself and make her own decisions and feelings known. Through the therapeutic process, she became comfortable with being less perfect in her parents' eyes and better able to experience her life genuinely.... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/what-have-i-done-for-me-0206124/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/what-have-i-done-for-me-0206124/ Mon, 6 Feb 2012 18:28:46 GMT Finding ways to take care of ourselves and nourish our own needs helps replenish our emotional resources so that we can continue to care for others. Making a pie chart of how we spend our time can give us a visual assessment of where we might make more time for ourselves.... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/white-matter-cannabis-users-schizophrenia-0206121/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/white-matter-cannabis-users-schizophrenia-0206121/ Mon, 6 Feb 2012 17:22:22 GMT While it has been known that cannabis use may lead to decreased white matter in the brain, a new study looks at how it affects people with schizophrenia, who are already at risk for decreased white matter. It is possible that cannabis use in young people with schizophrenia could lead to changes in brain maturation and increased risk of psychosis.... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/study-isolates-schizophrenia-markers-0204121/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/study-isolates-schizophrenia-markers-0204121/ Sat, 4 Feb 2012 17:00:03 GMT To understand how auditory and visual processing are affected in clients with or at risk for schizophrenia, researchers looked at mismatch negativity responses, reorienting negativity responses, and attention shifts and found deficits in all three areas.... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/teaching-children-language-deficits-0203123/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/teaching-children-language-deficits-0203123/ Sat, 4 Feb 2012 03:00:49 GMT Children with memory and language impairments may need special attention in the areas of math, spelling, and reading. These children also may have problems with behavior and attention.... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/psychotherapy-news-round-up/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/psychotherapy-news-round-up/ Fri, 3 Feb 2012 22:30:37 GMT A GoodTherapy.org Psychotherapy News Weekly Round-Up <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/psychotherapy-news-round-up/psychotherapy-news-round-up-banner/" rel="attachment wp-att-9330"></a>Please take a look at these latest news articles and tell us what you think! <a href="http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/02/120203092031.htm" rel="nofollow">Schizophrenia: When Hallucinatory Voices Suppress Real Ones, New Electronic Application May Help</a> <a href="http://psychcentral.com/news/2012/02/03/facebook-may-be-harmful-to-self-esteem/34421.html">Facebook May Be Harmful to Self-Es... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/emotionally-focused-couples-therapy-0203122/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/emotionally-focused-couples-therapy-0203122/ Fri, 3 Feb 2012 22:13:46 GMT Hands-on training in emotionally focused couples therapy helps therapists gain competence and increases their personal growth, regardless of age, sex, or education.... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/guide-to-multicultural-competence-0203125/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/guide-to-multicultural-competence-0203125/ Fri, 3 Feb 2012 21:42:29 GMT There are a few simple, but thought-provoking principles that can be used to help people increase their multicultural competence. By reflecting on where and how our theories and interventions were developed, we can begin to understand how they don't fit all groups and cultures.... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/toxic-friends-break-up-0203124/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/toxic-friends-break-up-0203124/ Fri, 3 Feb 2012 19:29:58 GMT Some friendships leave us feeling drained or depressed rather than supported and rejuvenated. If you have a friendship that fits this category, it maybe a toxic relationship, and it might be a good idea to start considering other options, such as working to improve the friendship or finding a way to end it.... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/premature-babies-risk-depression-anxiety-0203121/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/premature-babies-risk-depression-anxiety-0203121/ Fri, 3 Feb 2012 18:28:36 GMT In addition to the physical and cognitive challenges faced by premature, low-birth-weight children, a new study is now showing an increased risk for depression and anxiety for these children as they grow up. Their psychological well-being will need to be considered along with other health concerns by care providers.... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/b-vitamin-depression-anxiety-0202123/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/b-vitamin-depression-anxiety-0202123/ Fri, 3 Feb 2012 03:00:27 GMT Research is showing that in people with depression, women are more likely than men to take B vitamins to help avoid future bouts with depression, while men who have been diagnosed with anxiety or depression are more likely to take B vitamins than men who have not.... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/obsessive-compulsive-behavior-eating-disorders-0202122/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/obsessive-compulsive-behavior-eating-disorders-0202122/ Thu, 2 Feb 2012 22:54:32 GMT New findings suggest that children who present with symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder have a higher risk of developing eating disorders as teens. Girls and those with a family history of disordered eating were also at higher risk.... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/psychotherapy-and-recovery-take-time-0202125/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/psychotherapy-and-recovery-take-time-0202125/ Thu, 2 Feb 2012 22:16:55 GMT While it may be tempting to look for the quick fix to our troubles, the road to recovery through psychotherapy is hard work, but it definitely pays off in the end. Feeling better means putting in the time and effort, one day at a time.... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/time-to-separate-family-0202124/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/time-to-separate-family-0202124/ Thu, 2 Feb 2012 18:32:52 GMT While there are times when separating is necessary to keep family members safe and healthy, it is generally in everyone's best interest to work to stay together, because we all need to feel we belong and are valued. When couples separate, they should immediate seek counseling if the goal is to remain married.... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/family-based-treatment-anorexia-teens-0202121/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/family-based-treatment-anorexia-teens-0202121/ Thu, 2 Feb 2012 17:34:25 GMT Research is showing that family-based therapy is more effective than cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating teens with anorexia nervosa. Teens show a better result in terms of maintaining healthy weight and adhering to treatment.... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/anxiety-predicts-bipolar-children-0201122/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/anxiety-predicts-bipolar-children-0201122/ Wed, 1 Feb 2012 22:57:28 GMT To add to our knowledge about the relationship between bipolar disorder and anxiety, a new study shows that teens with anxiety were more likely to have experienced bipolar symptoms at a younger age than teens without anxiety. These teens were also found to have a lower quality of life. It is recommended that the anxiety be treated as a separate issue in their treatment.... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/letting-go-fear-of-loss-0201125/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/letting-go-fear-of-loss-0201125/ Wed, 1 Feb 2012 20:46:25 GMT Many of us allow fear of loss to affect the way we live our lives, especially if our family of origin carries with it stories of loss. Letting go of this fear helps us enjoy the here and now.... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/gifts-of-trauma-survivors-0201124/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/gifts-of-trauma-survivors-0201124/ Wed, 1 Feb 2012 18:28:07 GMT While nobody wishes for a traumatic experience, trauma offers gifts that survivors say they have come to cherish: a greater sense of gratitude and delight in each new day, increased intuitive abilities, and enhanced appreciation for when things go well.... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/risk-factors-illicit-drug-use-0201121/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/risk-factors-illicit-drug-use-0201121/ Wed, 1 Feb 2012 17:23:47 GMT Experimentation is a common behavior during adolescence. Young adulthood is a time when individuals begin exploring new relationships, activities, and even substances. Drug use among young adults is not uncommon. However, adolescents who continue to abuse <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-addiction.html">drugs</a> and alcohol are more likely to engage in risky sexual activity, aggression, and unlawful behaviors. There are many factors that have been shown to increase the likelihood of substance abuse during this time, including anxiety, depression, childhood trauma or abuse and f... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/does-sexual-distress-indicate-dysfunction-0131123/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/does-sexual-distress-indicate-dysfunction-0131123/ Wed, 1 Feb 2012 03:00:59 GMT According to the International Consensus Development Conference, female sexual dysfunction (FSD) must be characterized by <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-anxiety.html">anxiety</a> about sexual performance together with feelings of distress and other symptoms of dysfunction. However, according to a new study led by A. Burri of the Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology at King?s College in London, many women who experience sexual distress are not <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/sex-therapy.html">sexually dysfunctional</a>. To understand why distress is presen... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/victims-dont-acknowledge-stalking-0131122/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/victims-dont-acknowledge-stalking-0131122/ Tue, 31 Jan 2012 22:00:30 GMT Acknowledgement of victimization is the first step on the road to recovery. Yet many individuals who are victims of stalking don?t ever acknowledge that they have been victimized. Although there is much research examining this phenomenon in sexual assaults, little research has been devoted to the psychological ramifications of unacknowledged <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-ptsd.html">victims of stalking</a>. To address this void, Christine M. Englebrecht, Ph.D., in the Criminal Justice Program at Bowling Green State University in Ohio led a study examining what conditions men... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/taking-love-in-0113125/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/taking-love-in-0113125/ Tue, 31 Jan 2012 18:41:57 GMT Love is one of the most elemental of emotions?it is a building block to some of our deepest relationships and a component in many of our happiest days. Yet the ability to freely give and receive love is a fragile skill, which traumatic experiences can all too easily dent or damage. Learning how to be loved is a vital part of your healing, and here are a few tips on how to regain your ability to accept someone?s care, concern, and nurture. The first set of tips have to do with the person who is expressing kindness, care, concern, nurture, attention, aka love to you. Because you have expe... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/risk-factors-for-ocd-0131121/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/risk-factors-for-ocd-0131121/ Tue, 31 Jan 2012 17:46:12 GMT One risk factor for <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-ocd.html">obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD</a>) is something known as neurological soft signs (NSS). These minor disturbances in brain functioning have been shown to be present in people with OCD more often than in people without OCD. Some studies have isolated NSS and discovered that individuals with OCD and NSS have impaired reflexes and motor coordination, as well as more severe symptoms of the disorder. Other risk factors that have been suggested are decreased intelligence, temperament, childhood trauma, and emotional fu... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/parenting-and-friendship-0131124/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/parenting-and-friendship-0131124/ Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:23:29 GMT I was talking to one of my colleagues about the age of my son and the age of his daughters. His daughters are much older than my almost 1 year old, but he was able to give me some great wisdom. The wisdom was that ?friendship comes later.? What I gather from that is when a child is younger, what they need is to be parented. Parenting is teaching, guiding, and leading the child to know how to make wise choices, to be disciplined when he is not making a wise choice, to be shown how to love self and others, to make friends, and to evolve into a wise young person. There are a few parents... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/football-boys-bullying-connection-0130123/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/football-boys-bullying-connection-0130123/ Tue, 31 Jan 2012 03:00:55 GMT With football season nearing end, emotionally charged teen boys, who are taught how to use <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-aggression-violence.html">aggression</a> on the field, will no longer be able to use that physical outlet for their youthful frustrations. Because of the high level of violence in the sport, experts have wondered if these <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-children-teens.html">teens</a>, who are encouraged to use coercion, intimidation, and other aggressive tactics during play, are more likely to engage in <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therap... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/stress-environment-gender-affects-response-0130122/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/stress-environment-gender-affects-response-0130122/ Mon, 30 Jan 2012 22:00:18 GMT One method for measuring reactivity to stress is to assess the level of autonomic nervous system (ANS) functioning. In a recent study, Lisa M. Diamond of the Department of Psychology at the University of Utah used skin conductance (SCL) to measure ANS among 110 children 14 years old. The purpose of her experiment was to determine if<a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-children-teens.html"> teens? </a>reactions to <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-stress.html">stress</a> were influenced by their own predisposition or by their environments. Specifically, Diamond wanted to ... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/calming-emotional-chaos-grief-0130125/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/calming-emotional-chaos-grief-0130125/ Mon, 30 Jan 2012 21:20:06 GMT A death, divorce, illness, sudden unemployment, or any major loss, creates chaos in your life. This emotional fracturing, as well as the practical aftershocks of dealing with estates, lawyers, housing, finances, doctors, etc., often yields intense feelings that can be overwhelming. When you think you simply can?t assimilate another thing, it?s crucial to just stop. Even if you have never meditated, simply sitting or lying down and paying attention to your breath will calm your nervous system and give you the literal breather you need. Sometimes, it?s too hard to stay still, so take... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/age-matters-in-the-client-therapist-relationship/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/age-matters-in-the-client-therapist-relationship/ Mon, 30 Jan 2012 18:16:38 GMT A strong <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/what-is-good-therapy.html">therapeutic bond</a> is imperative in order to achieve a successful outcome in psychotherapy. This bond must begin with the initial intake session. Research indicates that clients who feel disconnected from the clinician due to <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-multicultural-concerns.html">cultural</a>, ethnic, or even religious differences, are more likely to terminate treatment as early as the first session. To understand what factors influence this dynamic, Daniel C. Rosen of the Counseling and Health P... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/body-image-healthy-boundaries-013012/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/body-image-healthy-boundaries-013012/ Mon, 30 Jan 2012 17:55:04 GMT Many people, but primarily young, educated, Western women, struggle to sustain a positive body image?for a multitude of reasons that have been discussed in previous posts. Often a negative body image leads to a poor relationship with the body and other aspects of self. It is associated with impoverished self-care and unhealthy eating and lifestyle habits. Having a negative body image is related to general low self-esteem and depression or anxiety. Women with poor body image often struggle with boundaries in relationship to self and others. In this post, I will attempt to shed some light o... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/rural-men-avoid-counseling-0127120/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/rural-men-avoid-counseling-0127120/ Sat, 28 Jan 2012 03:00:48 GMT Men, in general, are far less likely than women to seek professional help for mental health problems. But a new study, led by Joseph H. Hammer and David L. Vogel of the Department of Psychology at Iowa State University, suggests that men from rural communities are even more resistant than urban-dwelling men when it comes to getting <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/what-is-therapy.html">psychological counseling</a>. The study expands upon previous research by the team and explores the factors that create barriers to treatment. For example, in the study, Hammer and colleagues identified self-... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/cancer-survivors-handle-stress-0127122/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/cancer-survivors-handle-stress-0127122/ Fri, 27 Jan 2012 22:00:37 GMT The emotional impact of a <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-cancer.html">cancer diagnosis</a> is overwhelming. People who undergo cancer treatment come through recovery having learned how to deal with an immense amount of <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-stress.html">stress</a>. Some individuals cope better than others. Research examining reactions to stress in cancer survivors has provided mixed results. Several studies suggest that <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-cancer.html">cancer survivors</a> are more resilient than their healthy counterparts,... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/protecting-spouse-with-cancer-0127125/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/protecting-spouse-with-cancer-0127125/ Fri, 27 Jan 2012 19:14:44 GMT ?Sam? and ?Ellen? have been married for 42 years. They have had a good life together. They?ve raised 4 children and have 11 grandchildren. They?ve had their ups and downs but have always managed to get through the hard times, until now. Sam?s diagnosis of stage IV prostate cancer has really thrown them for a loop. They?ve just had their first visit with the oncologist, who was very nice and explained things very well. However, out of the entire visit, each of them only really heard one thing. Sam heard that treatment will make him impotent, and Ellen heard that the 5-year su... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/predictors-ptsd-depression-after-trauma-0127121/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/predictors-ptsd-depression-after-trauma-0127121/ Fri, 27 Jan 2012 17:46:10 GMT Experiencing a traumatic event can cause an individual to develop significant mental health problems, most commonly <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-ptsd.html">posttraumatic stress</a> or depression. Many times, individuals who have been exposed to trauma develop varying degrees of both of these issues. Early detection is critical for diagnosis and treatment. In a recent study, Birgit Kleim of the Institute of Psychiatry at Kings College in London examined the specific factors used in cognitive models designed to assess PTSD and depression to determine their validity and predict... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/self-compassion-defends-against-helplessness-0127124/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/self-compassion-defends-against-helplessness-0127124/ Fri, 27 Jan 2012 16:30:47 GMT After having worked in a residential treatment facility for abused and neglected girls for 8 years, I observed that the phenomenon of learned helplessness had become an all-to-common denominator for these children. It was very rare that an abused child was placed with us for a single incident of abuse. By the time these children reached our facility, many of them had already been physically or sexually abused numerous times throughout their childhood and adolescence. Many times these children had been abused not by a single perpetrator but by several different people, including members of t... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/girls-multimedia-multitask-cost-0126123/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/girls-multimedia-multitask-cost-0126123/ Fri, 27 Jan 2012 03:00:12 GMT Half a dozen years ago, less than one-fifth of 12-year-old girls had a cell phone or iPod. Now, according to recent statistics, more than half of our young women own one if not both of these devices. Our culture has taken a dramatic technological shift over the past decade. And although there has been much research dedicated to examining the effects of multimedia on college students and adults, little attention has been given to the effects this has on the social skills and academic functioning of our young girls. Roy Pea of the School of Education at Stanford University wanted to find out exa... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/facts-about-male-body-satisfaction-0126122/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/facts-about-male-body-satisfaction-0126122/ Thu, 26 Jan 2012 22:34:35 GMT According to a new study led by Michael B. McFarland of the Department of Psychology at the University of North Texas, men primarily gauge their body satisfaction on three specific body parts, and they are not what one might think they are. Men who have <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-body-image.html">body image</a> issues struggle with a low sense of well-being and often develop mental health problems such as depression, muscle dysmorphia, and <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-eating-disorders.html">eating issues</a>. Men are influenced throughout their lives by ... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/mood-challenges-during-pregnancy/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/mood-challenges-during-pregnancy/ Thu, 26 Jan 2012 21:06:21 GMT A lot of attention has been paid to postpartum depression, due in part to celebrities such as Brooke Shields, Marie Osmond, and Gwyneth Paltrow helping to destigmatize the most common complication of childbirth. As an advocate, therapist, mother, and survivor of postpartum depression, I am happy that medical communities and the public at large are becoming familiar with perinatal mood/anxiety disorders (PMADs, the clinical term). However, there is still much work to be done. Most women of childbearing age are not aware of the potential to develop depression or anxiety during pregnancy. A my... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/partner-aggression-female-veterans-0126121/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/partner-aggression-female-veterans-0126121/ Thu, 26 Jan 2012 18:46:09 GMT The number of women who serve in the military and engage in combat is at an all-time high. The serious negative psychological consequences of being exposed to combat situations are well documented in male and female veterans. Those who return from war zones are at increased risk for many mental health problems, including <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-ptsd.html">posttraumatic stress</a>, depression, substance abuse, anxiety, and intimate partner aggression. Although there have been many studies that have shown links between combat service and <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.or... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/divorce-rituals-with-children-0126124/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/divorce-rituals-with-children-0126124/ Thu, 26 Jan 2012 17:38:49 GMT The decision has been made. You and your spouse are divorcing. There are a multitude of decisions to be made, and it is often difficult to know where to begin. You will be making decisions regarding when the children are with you and when they are with your spouse, whether to keep the family home and, if so, who keeps it. There will also be a host of other decisions you did not realize you made automatically on a daily basis that will now become conscious decisions because living in two different homes requires more coordination. While you are addressing these decisions and working to manage y... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/socio-evaluative-threats-compromise-health-0125123/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/socio-evaluative-threats-compromise-health-0125123/ Thu, 26 Jan 2012 03:00:21 GMT One of the primary risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD) is <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-stress.html">stress</a>. Whether psychological or physiological, stress can elevate ambulatory blood pressure (ABP) in healthy individuals, posing a risk factor for CVD. This dynamic has been replicated in some research studies conducted in laboratory settings. Socio-evaluative threats, which include threats to appearance, <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-self-esteem.html">self-esteem</a>, ability, and inclusion and acceptance by others, affected both men and women... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/attachment-related-distress-children-012512/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/attachment-related-distress-children-012512/ Wed, 25 Jan 2012 22:00:35 GMT Attachment bonds are formed in early childhood. Relationships with nurturing attentive caregivers result in secure attachment bonds in children as they age. However, dismissive caregivers who neglect or avoid relationships with their children tend to cause insecure and dismissive attachment behaviors and perceptions in these children. The <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-attachment.html">attachment bonds</a> directly shape children?s internal working models (IWMs), the way in which children see the world and others around them. But little attention has been given to how these ... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/mindfulness-regression-sex-therapy-0125124/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/mindfulness-regression-sex-therapy-0125124/ Wed, 25 Jan 2012 20:18:40 GMT From sex and relationships, to confusion about career and life choices, to those persistent and pesky maladies of the mind like anxiety and depression, past-life regression therapy can heal the mind and body. Past-life regression is a form of therapy commonly known as hypnotherapy. But hypnotherapy, in my opinion, is just a term for a philosophy that has the potential to go much deeper. What is typically referred to as a state of hypnosis comes with a lot of stigmas and preconceived notions. The layperson has come to see hypnosis as a trance-like state, much like a zombie. In actuality, ... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/gender-personality-affect-memory-mood-0125121/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/gender-personality-affect-memory-mood-0125121/ Wed, 25 Jan 2012 19:05:57 GMT Autobiographical memories (AMs) are personal memories that individuals have of different events and experiences that occurred in their lifetimes. Evidence suggests that men retrieve AMs differently than women. Some studies have shown that individuals with extroverted personalities tend to retrieve more positive AMs than negative AMs. In contrast, individuals with introverted personalities and traits, such as neuroticism, retrieve more negative AMs. However, there are few studies that have examined how AM appraisal or suppression, specifically related to gender, affects emotional regulation (ER... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/be-with-someone-grieving-0125125/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/be-with-someone-grieving-0125125/ Wed, 25 Jan 2012 17:01:50 GMT Your best friend?s beloved cat just died. Your favorite coworker was just laid off. Your elderly aunt, who suffered from cancer for many years, just died, and your cousin is bereft. In any one of these situations, you might likely be uncomfortable and not know what to do. You are certainly not alone with this dilemma. The first thing to remember in being with someone who is grieving a loss is the word ?be??notice that the title of this article starts with ?how to be,? not ?what to do.? You may be tempted in the case of the death of your best friend?s cat to offer to take h... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/internet-therapy-for-tinnitus-0124123/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/internet-therapy-for-tinnitus-0124123/ Wed, 25 Jan 2012 03:00:20 GMT Tinnitus is a disabling condition that causes an individual to perceive sounds that are not present. Over 10% of the population suffers with this condition, with nearly 2% of the entire population struggling with tinnitus in the extremely distressing ranges. People in this category have symptoms similar to those who struggle with <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-disabilities.html">chronic pain or diabetes</a>. When tinnitus gets severe enough it can lead to loss of concentration, cognitive impairment, emotional distress, and even insomnia. Nearly half of those who have tinnitus ... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/moral-identity-determines-power-trip-0124122/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/moral-identity-determines-power-trip-0124122/ Tue, 24 Jan 2012 22:04:59 GMT Power can cause even the most level-headed individuals to act in self-serving ways. Many individuals believe that power is a corruptive force and that most people who gain vast amounts of power inevitably use it for ill. However, a recent study, led by Katherine A. DeCelles of the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto in Canada, suggests that power may have positive and negative effects. In work environments, disparities in power can cause a division in collaboration. People in positions of <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-power.html">power</a> can overlook th... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/recovery-workbook-exercise-1-012412/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/recovery-workbook-exercise-1-012412/ Tue, 24 Jan 2012 20:15:18 GMT Now that you understand how codependency develops in a family surrounding a dysfunctional person, what are you supposed to do next? Many clients have said, ?Joyce, now that I understand where my fear of abandonment comes from, how do I stop being so scared of it that I mess up my relationships?? You can learn to do this, but it certainly isn?t easy. As you go through this workbook, you may feel uneasy when you try on new behaviors. It?s okay. Try to give yourself permission to be awkward. You don?t have to do everything perfectly. Ideally, you have a therapist available to you or,... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/gaze-perception-influences-schizophrenic-symptoms-0124121/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/gaze-perception-influences-schizophrenic-symptoms-0124121/ Tue, 24 Jan 2012 18:03:02 GMT Several studies have been conducted in an attempt to determine the exact relationship between gaze perception and symptomology in <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-schizophrenia.html">schizophrenia</a> (SCZ). However, the results of the studies were rather ambiguous and did not provide evidence that could positively influence interventions and treatments for clients suffering from SCZ. In particular, eye gaze direction and perception are strong indicators of intention and attention. Because the ability to accurately perceive eye gaze direction is directly related to social behavi... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/avoiding-exercise-addiction-with-awareness-0124124/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/avoiding-exercise-addiction-with-awareness-0124124/ Tue, 24 Jan 2012 17:27:59 GMT Okay, the holidays are over and it is the beginning of a New Year and you want to work on the new you. You have created an idea of how you want to move forward with your exercise plan and have bought a membership to your local gym or fitness studio. What could possibly go wrong? Well, a lot could go wrong if you are not aware of the imbalances in your life. Many people start off by having the goal of attaining a certain fitness milestone and make the commitment to themselves that they will work hard at keeping that resolution. The imbalance occurs when the commitment to exercise crosses the... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/compassionate-or-cautious-adolescent-development-0123123/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/compassionate-or-cautious-adolescent-development-0123123/ Tue, 24 Jan 2012 03:00:44 GMT Adolescents receive various messages from their mothers. But a new study, led by Laura Wray-Lake of the School of Behavioral and Organization Sciences at Claremont Graduate University, suggests that messages of caution and compassion have a particularly significant influence on the socialization and behaviors of teens. Compassion messages are inferences that people should all be treated with respect and value, whereas caution messages teach children to be wary of the world and people around them. Wray-Lake and her colleagues looked at several factors that influenced the value messages of the m... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/parenting-reduces-risky-sexual-behavior-african-americans-0123122/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/parenting-reduces-risky-sexual-behavior-african-americans-0123122/ Mon, 23 Jan 2012 22:11:22 GMT It is well established that racial discrimination can have negative emotional consequences, including <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-depression.html">depression </a>and <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-anxiety.html">anxiety</a>. But understanding how racial discrimination influences risky sexual behavior, both directly and indirectly, has not been fully explored until now. Megan E. Roberts of the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences at Dartmouth College wanted to find out how racial discrimination affected the sexual behavior of African -American youth... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/three-truths-about-marriage-0123125/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/three-truths-about-marriage-0123125/ Mon, 23 Jan 2012 21:02:47 GMT ?When two people are under the influence of the most violent, most insane, most delusive, and most transient of passions, they are required to swear that they will remain in that excited, abnormal, and exhausting condition continuously until death do them part.? ? George Bernard Shaw Ask any bride and groom on their wedding day, ?Will your marriage last a lifetime?? They will look at you like you have three heads and reply, ?Of course.? And that is truly what every bride and groom believes. As we know all too well, one out of two of them will be wrong. There are three truth... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/college-influences-ethnic-identity-0123121/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/college-influences-ethnic-identity-0123121/ Mon, 23 Jan 2012 17:58:55 GMT The<a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-change.html"> transition</a> from high school to college is a major milestone that evokes many emotions for teens. For adolescents with <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-multicultural-concerns.html">multicultural</a> ethnic identities, this time represents a period in which they can explore their ethnicity more freely. However, a new study led by Kim M. Tsai of the Department of Psychology at the University of California in Los Angeles suggests that students who enroll in 4-year colleges are more in tune with their ethnic identit... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/gravity-of-autism-part-2-0123124/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/gravity-of-autism-part-2-0123124/ Mon, 23 Jan 2012 17:30:09 GMT In my efforts as a counselor, helping couples and individuals raise children with autism, I've combined what I learned in school with what I've learned in my own journey. My last blog talked about that gravitational pull autism has on a family. I'd like to address a few ways we can limit that pull from affecting every aspect of our lives negatively. These are not quick fixes, and you won't find a step-by-step guide here. It's a process that requires daily practice, much like yoga. There is no end point, and you will not have ?arrived?; it's ongoing. I like to call it living mindfully and w... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/coping-with-anxiety-or-depression-0117114/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/coping-with-anxiety-or-depression-0117114/ Mon, 23 Jan 2012 15:30:21 GMT Psychotherapy is the first form of treatment for depression or anxiety and involves a variety of treatment techniques. During psychotherapy, the person experiencing depression or anxiety speaks with a licensed psychologist or therapist who helps him or her to identify and work on the causative factors. These factors trigger depression or anxiety by working in combination with chemical imbalances in the brain or heredity factors. Psychotherapy helps people with depression or anxiety in the following ways: Understanding the behaviors, ideas, and emotions that contribute to depression or a... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/positive-affirmations-help-teens-0119123/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/positive-affirmations-help-teens-0119123/ Fri, 20 Jan 2012 03:00:52 GMT Value affirmations, also known as self-affirmations, are positive assessments of one?s abilities, traits, and personality qualities. Value affirmations can increase <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-self-esteem.html">self-esteem</a>, self-worth, and fulfillment of one?s needs. When an individual recognizes their own worth and has a strong sense of identity and autonomy, they are more willing to help others meet their needs. This relationship between self-worth and prosocial behaviors has been examined in the past, but until now, few studies have looked at the effect of value ... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/old-lover-connects-on-line-0119125/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/old-lover-connects-on-line-0119125/ Thu, 19 Jan 2012 21:00:58 GMT What would you do? An important romantic figure from your past finds you on an internet social media site. Perhaps this was your first love. This renewed connection brings to mind the passion and enthusiasm of youth?before children, financial problems, and middle age. In your mind, you travel back to a time before career worries, mortgage problems, and thinning hair to a time of anticipation, optimism, and more energy. What would you do? Is it a wrong choice to maintain contact on-line? Is it wrong to have a texting relationship? Where do you draw the line? What is the line that would determ... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/eldercare-affects-job-performance-0119122/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/eldercare-affects-job-performance-0119122/ Thu, 19 Jan 2012 20:54:33 GMT Caring for an aging parent can cause increased stress and decreased mental health. In recent years, the number of people who provide <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-caregiver-issues.html">eldercare services</a> for family members while employed outside of the home has increased dramatically. Studies have shown that the demands of eldercare have negative impacts on mental health, which in turn results in lower work performance. But until now, no study has directly examined the link between eldercare demands and job performance. Additionally, no previous studies have identified w... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/wishy-washy-relationships-bad-health/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/wishy-washy-relationships-bad-health/ Thu, 19 Jan 2012 19:02:47 GMT According to a new study led by Bert N. Uchino of the Department of Psychology and Health Psychology Program at the University of Utah, ambivalent interpersonal relationships cause telomeres, chromosomal structures that maintain a person?s biological balance, to shorten. Short telomeres have been linked with increased risk for heart disease, infection, and decreased cellular life. Research has supported the theory that negative relationships are directly related to increased <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-stress.html">stress</a> and blood pressure, but this new study is amon... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/is-marriage-really-over-0119124/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/is-marriage-really-over-0119124/ Thu, 19 Jan 2012 18:23:20 GMT Anthony kind of slumped into the office and comfortably settled himself into the easy chair. ?Doc,? he said, ?I?m here to find out if my marriage is over. To me, it seems like it really is.? He went on to explain that his wife, Julie, and he had been living two separate lives for as long as he could remember. She was very involved with the children?s activities; she worked full time and had a rather hectic schedule as a corporate attorney. They rarely ate together and their conversations, though cordial, were impersonal. ?She had a function at work and invited me to come,? h... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/marital-education-heals-infidelity-wounds-0118123/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/marital-education-heals-infidelity-wounds-0118123/ Thu, 19 Jan 2012 03:00:22 GMT Although <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-infidelity.html">infidelity</a> is a difficult problem to address, marriage therapy has been shown to be highly effective at treating this painful issue. Marriage education, which teaches communication and compromise, is another form of treatment. But until now, its effect on <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-relationships.html">marital satisfaction</a> for couples dealing with infidelity had not been examined. Elizabeth S. Allen of the Department of Psychology at the University of Colorado in Denver, and lead author of a s... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/rape-victims-benefit-from-emdr-0118122/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/rape-victims-benefit-from-emdr-0118122/ Wed, 18 Jan 2012 22:00:02 GMT Nearly one in 12 women who suffer with <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-ptsd.html">posttraumatic stress</a> do so as a result of being raped. Although many therapies have been shown to help reduce the symptoms of rape-related PTSD, including <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/Eye_Movement_Desensitization_and_Reprocessing.html">eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)</a> and prolonged exposure (PE), a small number of these women still do not see significant relief. Recently, researchers have looked at the coping techniques these women use as a method of predicting t... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/expressive-arts-therapy-benefits-0118124/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/expressive-arts-therapy-benefits-0118124/ Wed, 18 Jan 2012 20:12:51 GMT Expressive Arts Therapy bridges the gap between the conscious and the unconscious. It can bring light to areas of therapy that are blocked, inhibited, and stuck, as well as bringing greater focus to those areas of concern. The primary focus is on the process, which allows the client to discover new insight and meaning that might not be achieved with traditional talk therapy. Appropriate for all ages, it can enhance each person?s emotional, spiritual, cognitive, and physical well-being. While no talent in the use of expressive arts is required, several modalities available to the client withi... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/expressive-writing-crosses-cultural-lines-in-breast-cancer-0118121/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/expressive-writing-crosses-cultural-lines-in-breast-cancer-0118121/ Wed, 18 Jan 2012 15:22:27 GMT Asian-American women are just as likely to develop breast <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-cancer.html">cancer</a> as European-American women but are far more likely to die as a result. Women of Asian descent also struggle with mental health issues because of their cancer but are not as likely to find culturally and socially assimilated mental health professionals as their non-Asian counterparts. Due to this, and other factors, breast cancer has become the leading cause of mortality for Asian-American women. Psychological health is crucial for recovery from physical illness, and... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/does-depression-cause-job-burnout-or-vice-versa/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/does-depression-cause-job-burnout-or-vice-versa/ Tue, 17 Jan 2012 22:00:21 GMT Anyone who has experienced job burnout may also have suffered with symptoms of <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-depression.html">depression</a>. And those who struggle with depression may find that their symptoms result in significant <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-workplace-issues.html">burnout on the job</a>. Until now, little research has examined how these two constructs relate to each other, and more specifically, if they are interchangeable as predictors and outcomes of one another. Conservation of Resources (COR) theory is based on the presence of downwar... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/rose-colored-glasses-benefit-emergency-dispatchers-0117121/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/rose-colored-glasses-benefit-emergency-dispatchers-0117121/ Tue, 17 Jan 2012 18:42:58 GMT Peritraumatic emotional distress is a psychological condition that puts an individual at increased risk for depression and <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-ptsd.html">posttraumatic stress (PTSD</a>). Specifically, peritraumatic emotional distress has been linked to increased negative self-perceptions and occurs when someone experiences a traumatic event and after. First responders and emergency personnel are especially vulnerable to peritraumatic emotional distress, and the ensuing PTSD and <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-depression.html">depression</a>, because ... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/gravity-of-autism-0116124/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/gravity-of-autism-0116124/ Tue, 17 Jan 2012 15:30:38 GMT Definition: Gravitational Pull; The attraction that one object has for another object due to the invisible force of gravity. The mass of an object affects its gravitational pull. The gravitational pull of the Sun keeps the planets in orbit around it. I was counseling a couple the other day, with a newly diagnosed child. Let's call them John and Mary. Mary described feeling unappreciated by her husband, tired all the time, and frustrated by having to "do everything" around the house. John complained that Mary spent all of her time with their 3-year-old son, Jimmy, who is severely affected by... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/suicide-risk-factors-warning-signs-0116124/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/suicide-risk-factors-warning-signs-0116124/ Mon, 16 Jan 2012 15:30:00 GMT Suicide, or the intentional ending of one?s life, is a topic that often causes significant anxiety to both professionals and the general public. Often, knowing some of the key risk factors that elevate and lower suicide risk can assist in working with a suicidal person and help them stay alive. In addition, if you are a professional, it can help you feel more confident in making decisions related to treatment and referral. According to SuicideOutreach.org, a program of the Veteran?s Administration, "Risk factors refer to an individual's characteristics, circumstances, history and experi... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/parents-illness-related-depression-disrupts-families-0113123/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/parents-illness-related-depression-disrupts-families-0113123/ Sat, 14 Jan 2012 03:00:46 GMT Parents who struggle with a <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-disabilities.html">chronic illness</a> are at increased risk for mental health challenges, particularly depression. Adults with multiple sclerosis (MS), a degenerative neurological disorder, have statistically high rates of depression, upwards of 59%. Because the illness often first manifests in early adulthood, the debilitating effects can impair child-rearing abilities and have a negative impact on parenting. Kenneth I. Pakenham of the School of Psychology at the University of Queensland in Australia recently conduct... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/ptsd-women-seeking-safety-effectively-0113122/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/ptsd-women-seeking-safety-effectively-0113122/ Fri, 13 Jan 2012 22:00:45 GMT Seeking Safety is a brief therapeutic treatment that incorporates cognitive behavioral techniques in order to decrease substance misuse in people suffering from <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-ptsd.html">post-traumatic stress</a>. Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) are common in individuals who have experienced a traumatic event, and the majority of women being treated for <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-addiction.html">SUDs</a> have reported prior traumas. Because SUD and PTSD are commonly comorbid, many new treatments designed to address both issues have begun to ... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/media-creates-narcissists-0113121/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/media-creates-narcissists-0113121/ Fri, 13 Jan 2012 18:21:58 GMT Reality television depicts average people rising rapidly to instant fame. Other media outlets, including YouTube and Facebook, provide people with the opportunity to gain the attention of a virtual audience with the push of a button. Young people today are bombarded with images of fictional fame, as in the case of Hannah Montana and other television characters, and real fame, through reality programming and media coverage of athletes, musicians and actors. But how has this phenomenon affected the aspirations of our youth? Yalda T. Uhls, of the Department of Psychology at the University of Cali... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/starting-over-january-0112124/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/starting-over-january-0112124/ Fri, 13 Jan 2012 16:00:41 GMT But home is far away In the Dark, we can?t make out the sea. No stars point our ways to the shore Wind comes from all directions Cutting our bones. By Wang Ping January is a time of brisk, crisp, sparkling skies and clean air? an inspiration to get outside and get some exercise. January is cold wind and early darkness that feels likes an assault. Sometimes I revel in the snappy skies, sometimes I grouse about having to wear shoes and boots and socks and sweaters. . . It can be depressing. I?m thinking about those times when the glass is less than half empty? it isn?t even ... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/disordered-eating-weight-loss-bone-health-0113126/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/disordered-eating-weight-loss-bone-health-0113126/ Fri, 13 Jan 2012 15:15:08 GMT I had my first DXA scan a few weeks ago. My gynecologist felt that it was time I had one, as I?m officially post-menopausal. While I was curious about the results, I wasn?t worried?I?ve done yoga, including various crazy postures that involve balancing my body?s weight on my arms, for many years. I used to teach ?aerobics,? as we called group cardio fitness classes back in the day. I mix up my cardio workouts with regular resistance training. I take calcium supplements and try to get my leafy greens in as often as I can remember to go grocery shopping. And although there were ... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/rejection-sensitivity-affects-workplace-sexism-0112123/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/rejection-sensitivity-affects-workplace-sexism-0112123/ Fri, 13 Jan 2012 02:00:56 GMT In competitive <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-workplace-issues.html">workplace environments</a>, women often aspire to achieve status equal to their male counterparts. But a new study suggests that women who are sensitive to rejection by male superiors may engage in self-silencing behaviors that actually promote, rather than prevent sexism. Self-silencing occurs when an individual refrains from verbalizing their opinions or beliefs for fear of being rejected by a person in a position of power or authority. To determine if this act impairs a woman?s ability to achieve equalit... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/cannabis-use-prolongs-ptsd-symptoms-0112122/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/cannabis-use-prolongs-ptsd-symptoms-0112122/ Thu, 12 Jan 2012 22:00:48 GMT <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-addiction.html">Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD)</a> is on the rise among military veterans with PTSD. ?Indeed, rates of PTSD diagnoses among veterans increased 60% between 2002 and 2007, and rates of CUD diagnoses within the Veterans Affairs (VA) hospital system increased more than 50% between 2002 and 2009,? said Marcel O. Bonn-Miller of the National Center for PTSD and Center for Health Care Evaluation at the VA Palo Alto Health Care System in California. However, when these vets enter treatment and discontinue their cannabis use, their symptom... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/family-therapy-helps-suicidal-lgb-youth-0112121/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/family-therapy-helps-suicidal-lgb-youth-0112121/ Thu, 12 Jan 2012 19:31:36 GMT Lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) teens are at increased risk for <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-suicide.html">suicide</a> due to peer victimization and minority discrimination. These actions can have serious psychological consequences for teens, including plummeting self-esteem, anxiety, hopelessness and depression. ?No experience, however, is more pernicious than parental rejection,? said Gary M. Diamond of the Department of Psychology at Ben-Gurion University in Israel, and co-author of a study examining treatments to reduce suicide among LGB youth. ?Societal homophobic... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/being-mindful-empathy-building-play-therapy-0112114/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/being-mindful-empathy-building-play-therapy-0112114/ Thu, 12 Jan 2012 16:30:53 GMT It is not a surprise that we have heard much stirring in the last several years about the importance of empathy and its role in everything from attachment, to neural development, to world positivity. There is an empathy shortage in the world, and we are seeing the far-reaching effects. Bullying. Violence. Insensitivity. Selfishness. In practice, we often see the damage done with children who are traumatized because of early life experiences characterized by a lack of empathy. Abuse, neglect, emotional bankruptcy, painful attachments and a violation of trust all contribute to a child?s abilit... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/working-with-lesbian-gay-bisexual-transgender-clients-0111124/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/working-with-lesbian-gay-bisexual-transgender-clients-0111124/ Thu, 12 Jan 2012 15:30:33 GMT As you would with any client, be sure to conduct a complete and comprehensive interview. Be sure to ask about what they thought life would be like, versus what reality is. Is there a loss of a dream? Any traumas? Are they ?out? or in process of coming out? It is wise to remember and even educate folks that ?coming out? is a lifetime process and not a discreet event. People may ?come out? at different levels in different settings (e.g. family, friends, work, etc). Be prepared to ask questions over time, as answers will change as clients feel more comfortable and safe. LGBTQ clien... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/in-session-immediacy-0111123/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/in-session-immediacy-0111123/ Thu, 12 Jan 2012 02:00:37 GMT ?Immediacy is the act of discussing in the here-and-now how the therapist is feeling about the patient, about himself/herself in relation to the patient, or about the patient-therapist relationship,? said A. Jill Clemence of the Department of Psychiatry at Albany Medical College. Immediacy has been shown to be a critical component of the <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/what-is-good-therapy.html">therapeutic alliance</a> and can have a significant impact on the client?s ability to process emotions. ?Immediacy is also conceptualized as a potent technique for managing an alliance rupt... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/does-race-affect-working-alliance-0111122/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/does-race-affect-working-alliance-0111122/ Wed, 11 Jan 2012 22:00:36 GMT Working Alliance (WA) describes the relationship between a client and therapist and the underlying bond formed during the therapeutic process.  The majority of researchers believe that a strong WA is essential to a positive treatment outcome. <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-multicultural-concerns.html">Ethnic and racial differences</a> between clients and therapists can impair the working alliance and therefore influence the outcome as well. ?Members of racial/ethnic minority groups may experience greater challenges in establishing a trusting therapeutic relationship due to ... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/emotional-eating-0111126/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/emotional-eating-0111126/ Wed, 11 Jan 2012 18:22:51 GMT We all, at one time or another, use food for soothing. Eating is a pleasurable experience. The problem lies in using food for comfort rather than dealing with our emotions because food only provides a temporary escape only to have emotions resurface again and again. For may people, they are taught from a young age that emotions are not meant to be expressed, but just dealt with on their own and to move on with a brave face. This is, in most cases, not done in malice, but for the sheer fact that we are uncomfortable with emotion. We are uncomfortable with our own emotions and certainly more unc... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/light-at-the-end-0111125/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/light-at-the-end-0111125/ Wed, 11 Jan 2012 17:48:05 GMT The dawning of the New Year brings with it more than just a change in numbers. It brings a promise of longer and warmer days in contrast to the early arrival of night in wintertime. This is why our winter holidays celebrate light and swirl on the calendar around the winter solstice near the end of December. Every candle and every light that twinkles in windows and along streets are meant to give us hope that life will continue, and that it might even be good again. As difficult as it is for people experiencing grief to feel comforted by the holidays, when everyone is gathering around fri... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/socioeconomic-status-linked-to-physical-psychological-health-0111111/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/socioeconomic-status-linked-to-physical-psychological-health-0111111/ Wed, 11 Jan 2012 16:00:48 GMT Socioeconomic status (SES) influences many facets of a person?s life. Researchers have theorized that low SES is associated with poor physical and mental health throughout life, but few studies have examined the long-term effects. Even fewer studies have examined how positive or <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/therapy-for-mood-swings.html">negative mood</a>, resulting from SES, influence physical health. ?Given this background, the present study examines inter-individual differences in the development of positive and negative affect and physical health as well as in the dynamic associa... http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/can-couples-recover-from-infidelity-0111114/ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/can-couples-recover-from-infidelity-0111114/ Wed, 11 Jan 2012 15:30:07 GMT I was counseling a couple recently and as the session was coming to a close I was asked point blank, ?How many couples come to see you with infidelity?? I had to stop for a moment and think, ?About 30% of the couples I treat work with infidelity issues,? I answered. Then I thought: That?s what I see, but I bet most couples probably don?t even make it as far as the counseling room. Where cheating is involved, many couples likely break up after the affair is revealed. I am thinking of tales from history ? people I used to know before becoming a counselor, and just stories of...