Every successful journey requires a clear and concise path, mental healthcare is no exception.
An accurate diagnosis is paramount in healthcare treatment. However, many mental health symptoms that comprise one disorder are also found in others. Psychologists have extensive training in both treating and diagnosing behavioral and cognitive illnesses. Starting treatment with a clear and concise path, often results in treatment being more effective, requiring fewer sessions. Ultimately helping the individual find the inner peace they desire.
When substance or behavioral addictions are present, this typically presents significant diagnostic challenges. I decided early on in my education that I wanted to become an expert at understanding how to help individuals who struggle with both addictions and other “co-occurring” mental health illness. My education and training include specialized course work in addiction treatment, a research dissertation on comparing substance use treatment programs based on gender and age, and I completed an advanced fellowship at the world’s foremost substance treatment center.
My education, training and professional experiences have taught me that life’s path is not always linear or simple. Sometimes, even those will great emotional resiliency need help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Everyone has battles to fight and hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or any other mental health issue, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow.