Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Online Personal Therapy

Regular readers may be aware that my mom is a psychologist. Some of you may know someone who could use someone to talk to, a professional therapist to help with depression or a difficult time in their life. In addition to her own private practice, my mom has a website with a lot of information that may be of interest to anyone interested in therapy. I took the liberty of copying some content directly from her website and pasted it below. If it is helpful to at least one person, then this post is worth it. Being a complete professional, she has never discussed any of her patients with me, so I'd never know if you chose to contact her; and she certainly doesn't need to know that you read my blog. So yes, it is a shameless plug for my mom, but I'm really sharing this because I suspect some of my readers might find this useful. So here is my mom:
"As a licensed Psychologist practicing Cognitive therapy, I work with my clients to help them identify the personal issues that are preventing them from achieving a more satisfying and well-adjusted life. I have been in private practice since 1992, working with individuals, families, and corporate clients. I received my Ph.D. in Psychology from the University of Rhode Island. I also have extensive experience in psychopharmacology and when given written consent by the patient, work closely with his or her medical providers if I feel that medications might facilitate and expedite treatment goals.It has been my experience that in today’s fast-paced world people have so many work, family and personal obligations, that they very often do not make the time to take care of their own emotional needs. Their personal psychological problems are often given a low priority, ranking below their jobs, family and social commitments. Since it has been scientifically proven that emotional health is a necessary prerequisite for physical health, ignoring your emotional issues will not only create unhappiness and distress, it will eventually lead to medical problems."
"My treatment philosophy is that I believe that everyone has the desire to live up to his or her potential, but sometimes we encounter difficult problems and we discover we are not equipped to adequately cope with them. It is common for people to deny that they are having personal difficulties and they only realize that their lives are unhappy after some major disappointment, disorder, or physical illness strikes them.I believe that you really have the positive energy within yourself to overcome and improve your present life situation; you may just need some support or help to learn the skills to properly apply that energy to transform your life’s direction. I would like to guide you in making those positive changes in your life which will help to liberate you from past negative behavior patterns and will assist you in realizing a full and healthy life.I invite you to explore my website to learn more about how I can help you to better understand why common emotional problems adversely affect peoples’ lives. If after viewing my site you feel that I am the right person to guide you on your journey to improved emotional well-being and a more balanced life, please contact me at 888-901-6001 for a free 5 minute introduction and consultation."
Advantages of Telephonic or Online Therapy
"The first advantage is the convenience of not having to leave your home or work for an appointment. There is no need to allow for travel time or cost, search out parking places or depend on public transportation. You lose less of your precious time by allowing only the time for your session, instead of “waiting room” time. Your sessions are available to you anywhere in the world, so if travel or job obligations take you away from your home, you can still receive uninterrupted, consistent care with the same person who already knows you and your needs. Additionally, for individuals responsible for the supervision of children, or who may be adult caregivers, finding time for their own mental health needs can be challenging. Without having to physically leave your environment, you can schedule your sessions during nap time or “down time”, knowing that you are in control of your treasured personal time."

"Additionally, there is complete anonymity. Many people feel uncomfortable that they might be seen in a therapist’s office. Other people may choose to not use their health insurance benefits to prevent a record of a psychiatric diagnosis to their health background. "

What kinds of issues are appropriate for telephonic or on-line therapy sessions?
"People with anxiety-related disorders like Panic Attacks, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Phobia, and worrying. Sleep disorders, some personality disorders, parent-child problems, chronic medical problems contributing to emotional problems, Personal Support, and mood disorders are among some other issues which are suitable for sessions. Other symptoms can be discussed to determine if online or telephonic sessions would be suitably therapeutic for you. Individuals who are severely depressed, actively psychotic, suicidal or homicidal should seek immediate medical care by calling 911 or by going to the nearest hospital, and not consider online or telephonic counseling."

12 comments:

kenju said...

What a good idea. I've wondered if such services existed and how they would work. It's nice of you to introduce your mom, Rick. She's very pretty.

snowelf said...

Shameless plug or not, this is a warm and thoughful post. I love your mom already and being very fond of psychology, I really appreciate her accomplishments in her field.

--snow

Anonymous said...

that is a great idea. I wonder if my sister-in-law might consider calling her, she is going through a rough patch.

Maggie Moo said...

This is an amazing idea, especially in today's society where people are more comfortable with online/phone chats.

And I agree, your Mom's pretty!

KathyA said...

So your mom had you when she was four?? Wow! She's so young looking!

whimsical brainpan said...

Your Mom sounds awesome! If I didn't have such a good therapist already I'd go to her.

I'm glad that there are online and telephone options now. Not only is it convenient but it also helps if you can't find a good therapist in your area.

Cathy, Let's Dance! said...

Your mom looks better than ever and there is nothing shameless about your love and pride!

Biddie said...

That is your MOM? Wow. She is gorgeous.
This is a great idea, too. I seldom leave the house alone and with Shawn going back to work, getting out will be even more difficult. Something like this would be wonderful for a person like me on bad days.
(Still think that you are sweeter than ever for praying for me. It really does mean a lot)
Biddie xx

Karelian Blonde said...

Nice to meet your mum :)

Olivia said...

That's funny, what Kathy said :)

Your mom is very pretty and I am sure you are as proud of her as she is of you.

I admire her for pursuing psychological pursuits, and even more so for setting up such a creative practice that is sure to reach out to clients who would normally be uncomfortable with the face to face or even the perceived stigma of personally attending such sessions.

I really like the idea of cognitive therapy, by the way.

Tea N. Crumpet said...

I'm waiting for her to write a book on parenting. I keep in my mind the picture of you and her with the roses in front of that classic car-- although with us it'll be a classic, rusty SUV and dandelions!

Kanani said...

I think this is a really good idea. There are people who for whatever reason, can't bring themselves to discuss their issues in person.

The Army has started 24/7 online and telephone counseling for active duty members and their families. One night I was going through paperwork and was getting increasingly discombobulated trying to understand everything --from the paperwork to how my life had changed. I called the number ...and they answered! They had all the answers and resources for me...and yes, I felt very relieved. This wasn't anything big --but I can imagine they've probably saved more than one person from bigger things.

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