Depression is the most prevalent mental disorder in the United States, characterized by an enduring sadness, feelings of hopelessness, and loss of interest that persists for days. Symptoms may also include fatigue, irritability, trouble concentrating, aches and pains, and insomnia. Those with depression may also feeling nothing or feeling “empty”. Depression can significantly interfere with one’s life, causing absences from work/school and a loss of interest in friendships and relationships.  Depression is also the leading cause of suicide in adults. However, depression can be treated with therapy, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, and/or medication. Suicide is the tenth leading cause of death…

Parental alienation is the psychological manipulation of a child by one parent into rejecting the other parent. Manipulated children start to show distrust, fear, and even hostility toward the alienated parent. These children often refuse to see the alienated parent and have no desire to continue a relationship with them, believing that this parent is entirely bad and the other is entirely good. Parental alienation is considered to be a form of child abuse, and leaves the child at a higher likelihood for mental and physical illness. Sometimes, reunification therapy can be helpful in reuniting the child and alienated parent.

Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD) is characterized by a disregard for or violation of the rights of others. Many of those diagnosed have a history of crime, substance abuse, and legal problems. Impulsive and aggressive behavior is common in these individuals, who often act recklessly without concern for their safety or others. Those with ASPD often have weak emotional bonds with others and manipulate and exploit others. They lack remorse for their actions and often display a superficial charm. Psychotherapy including anger management and, if applicable, addiction counseling, can sometimes be helpful in treating individuals with antisocial personality disorder.

Separation anxiety disorder (SAD) is a psychological disorder most commonly found in infants and young children. The disorder is characterized by a significant amount of fear and distress while experiencing the absence of an attachment figure such as a parent or caretaker. A child with SAD can experience severe psychological distress from even the anticipation of separation. Children may refuse to go out without the attachment figure and be extremely fearful of unlikely events such as being kidnapped or the death of the attachment figure.  Physical symptoms such as headaches and gastrointestinal symptoms can also be experienced. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can…