Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) combines complimentary therapy methods in order treat a variety of mental health problems. Treatment is very structured and focuses on identifying and correcting problematic emotional patterns through changes in their thought processes (cognitions) and behavior. Because of this, it can be especially useful in treating anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. During an appointment the psychologist and patient will together identify cognitive and behavioral problems and set goals to fix them. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is usually short-term in nature, yet provides the client with the strategies needed to deal with emotional problems long-term. CBT is also individualized for each…

At times, healthy relationships can become strained and challenged. Couples counseling can be helpful to repair broken relationships and provide partners with the proper tools to solve future problems. Therapy offers a neutral, non-judgmental party that allows each side of the relationship to express and explain their feelings. The therapist also helps couples to understand each other better, describe each party’s want and needs, improve communication, and manage differences in opinion during and after therapy. In certain cases, couples counseling can help partners come to terms with problems like financial issues and infidelity. Counseling duration can range from a few…

Sexual assault and rape are extremely prevalent in the U.S. and can severely affect a victim’s mental health. Victims can become intensely stressed and feel a sense of responsibility for their assault. Depression and post-traumatic stress disorder are also common, as well as dissociation (detachment) and thoughts of suicide. However, treatment is available for sexual trauma survivors that helps them to process their experience, reframe negative thoughts and emotions, and repair daily life functioning. Counseling in a group setting can have satisfactory results, as well as individual interventions like cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy.

Psychosexual evaluations are sometimes requested by legal officials during the court process for those on trial for a sexual offense. The goal of these evaluations are to identify the level of risk of re-offense and what kind of treatment would be appropriate and effective. It is not “profiling” and does not determine guilt or innocence. Typically, these evaluations consist of a general psychological evaluation, exploring personality and mental health needs, as well as a forensic evaluation that explores sexual history and preferences. Together, this comprehensive evaluation can offer valuable information to the court system and help them to make informed…

Conflict between family members can be stressful and disappointing to all involved. Family conflict can be caused by multiple factors including conflicting needs or opinions, illnesses, behavioral problems, financial issues, and more. Family therapy can help to address issues and increase communication and cooperation. Treatment aims to improve the family’s conflict resolution skills, and usually consists of group therapy sessions that may be supplemented with individual appointments. Reducing family conflict can reduce stress, improve mental health, and lead to increased happiness and life satisfaction.

Panic disorder is characterized by the experience of spontaneous and unpredictable panic attacks that seem to have no clear trigger. These sudden attacks of fear may last several minutes and cause shortness of breath and symptoms that mimic a heart attack. Living with the disorders can cause intense worry and fear of public spaces because of the anticipation of having a panic attack. Panic disorder is most often diagnosed in late teens or early adulthood and affects about twice more women than men. Treatment of panic disorder most commonly consists of cognitive-behavioral therapy and medication such as antidepressants and anti-anxiety…

Social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia, is the extreme fear of scrutiny or judgment by othersin social situations. Sufferers of this disorder can be significantly held back in their daily lives, and may seem cold and withdrawn even if they would like to be friendly and approachable. Common social occurrences such as meeting new people, being interviewed, and making phone calls can trigger significant fear and distress in the form of symptoms like racing heart, shortness of breath, and trembling. Many people with social anxiety have very few social relationships and can also experience poor family relationships, employment…

Poor communication can cause personal loss, misunderstanding, and conflict. There are three widely recognized styles of communication: passive, aggressive, and assertive. Passive communicators tend to be overly agreeable in order to avoid conflict, which might lead to the speaker denying one’s own needs and goals. Passive communication can result in embarrassment and a loss of self-respect. Aggressive communication falls on the other side of the spectrum. The communicator ignores the needs of others in order to satisfy their own needs, which can negatively impact relationships and result in feelings of anger or guilt. The most effective style of communication is…

ADHD, or attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, is prevalent in about 4-5% of adults in the U.S.  Symptoms include trouble concentrating, finishing tasks, staying organized, and remembering information. Adults with ADHD are also more likely to have other psychological disorders, such as depression and anxiety. ADHD can significantly impair functioning, especially when its coexists with other psychological problems. Since most sufferers are diagnosed as children, ADHD can be especially hard to identify in adults. A clinical evaluation is required to determine whether a patient is experiencing symptoms of ADHD or some other disorder. Treatment usually consists of a combination of therapy and…

Individuals who have been convicted of a sexual offense often times are court ordered to participate in a treatment program to address the issues that contributed to the sexual offense.  Treatment programs for individuals who may be suffering from a sexual behavior concern is a specialized area of Psychology that requires a practitioner versed in specific treatment approaches and principles that would make the treatment process more effective.  At Harper Psychological, PLC, located in East Lansing, MI, this is our specialty.  Sara Czubak, M.A., L.L.P. has a masters degree in Forensic Psychology and completed her masters thesis on risk assessments of…