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Are you or a loved one experiencing memory loss? Maybe you’re having trouble recalling someone’s name or remembering events from your past, or you keep forgetting about plans you previously made. Perhaps you’re even misremembering something that previously occurred because your brain made a mistake when filling in the details. If any of this sounds […]
Are you or a loved one experiencing memory loss? Maybe you’re having trouble recalling someone’s name or remembering events from your past, or you keep forgetting about plans you previously made. Perhaps you’re even misremembering something that previously occurred because your brain made a mistake when filling in the details. If any of this sounds familiar, you might have what’s known as amnesia.
Amnesia can be classified as either retrograde amnesia (which occurs when someone can’t remember things that happened prior to when they developed amnesia) or anterograde amnesia (which occurs when someone can recall memories from before developing amnesia but can’t form new memories). From there, it can be divided into the following four types based on cause and duration:
If you’re looking for a local therapist with experience treating amnesia, you’ve come to the right place. We understand how difficult amnesia can be—not only for the person experiencing it, but also their loved ones—and once we’ve learned about your circumstances, we’ll recommend a treatment approach that’s tailored to your specific needs. Contact us today to get started.
Sometimes referred to as “sleep terrors,” night terrors are a type of parasomnia that can cause someone to scream, cry, breathe heavily, have an increased heart rate, sweat, stare, sit up in bed, thrash around, or wave their arms and legs. It can be difficult to wake someone who’s experiencing night terrors, and they may […]
Sometimes referred to as “sleep terrors,” night terrors are a type of parasomnia that can cause someone to scream, cry, breathe heavily, have an increased heart rate, sweat, stare, sit up in bed, thrash around, or wave their arms and legs. It can be difficult to wake someone who’s experiencing night terrors, and they may be confused and hard to comfort when they do wake up. Although night terrors typically resolve within a few minutes, they can sometimes last longer, and the person often has no memory of the episode the following morning.
Treatment for night terrors often focuses on resolving the underlying issue:
In rare cases, night terror treatment may require taking medication to help you sleep. An experienced provider can recommend the approach that’s best suited to your needs.
If night terrors have become a common occurrence in your life, we may be able to help. Our team has extensive experience treating night terrors, and we understand the heavy toll that they can take on a person’s life. We also know that every situation is different, and once we’ve learned about your specific circumstances, we’ll develop a treatment plan that’s customized to your individual needs. Contact us today to learn more about our practice and schedule a consultation.
Dissociation is a mental process that involves disconnecting from your own thoughts, feelings, memories, or personal identity, often in response to a traumatic event. It can cause you to: Believe that the world around you is distorted or unreal Experience sudden mood swings Have trouble concentrating, remembering things, or handling intense emotions Experience anxiety or […]
Dissociation is a mental process that involves disconnecting from your own thoughts, feelings, memories, or personal identity, often in response to a traumatic event. It can cause you to:
Although dissociation often resolves on its own without the need for professional treatment, in some cases it can develop into a dissociative disorder. The mental health community classifies dissociative disorders into the following three types:
If you think you may be experiencing dissociation, contact us today. Our team regularly treats dissociation, and once we’ve spoken with you about the issues you’ve been dealing with, we can identify what may be causing the problem and recommend a course of treatment that’s customized to your specific needs. We look forward to meeting with you and helping you take the next step toward relief.
Do you have a hard time staying awake for long periods of time, often falling asleep suddenly and without warning? If so, you might have narcolepsy, a sleep disorder that causes excessive daytime drowsiness. Below, we explore common symptoms and causes. What Are the Symptoms of Narcolepsy? As was noted above, the hallmark characteristic of […]
Do you have a hard time staying awake for long periods of time, often falling asleep suddenly and without warning? If so, you might have narcolepsy, a sleep disorder that causes excessive daytime drowsiness. Below, we explore common symptoms and causes.
As was noted above, the hallmark characteristic of narcolepsy is extreme daytime drowsiness that causes you to suddenly fall asleep. This can happen anytime and anywhere, including when you’re engaged in an activity (for example, while you’re talking or driving). If you have narcolepsy, you may also experience:
People with narcolepsy also tend to move into rapid eye movement (REM) sleep more quickly. In some cases, individuals with narcolepsy experience a sudden loss of muscle tone (cataplexy), typically triggered by intense emotions. This can lead to muscle weakness or slurred speech that lasts for up to a few minutes.
Researchers are still working to determine what causes narcolepsy. However, studies suggest that low levels of the chemical hypocretin (possibly due to an autoimmune response) could contribute to cataplexy. Having a family history of narcolepsy can also increase your chances of developing the disorder.
Although there’s currently no cure for narcolepsy, treatment can help manage symptoms. If you need a therapist who specializes in treating narcolepsy, look no further than our team. We’ve helped numerous patients struggling with narcolepsy, and we can do the same for you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation at a date and time that fits into your schedule.
Is shopping always on your mind, whether you’re thinking about items you plan to buy or feeling guilty about previous purchases? Do you often feel a sense of euphoria after buying something, causing you to turn to shopping whenever you feel sad or stressed? Has shopping caused you to rack up credit card debt, or […]
Is shopping always on your mind, whether you’re thinking about items you plan to buy or feeling guilty about previous purchases? Do you often feel a sense of euphoria after buying something, causing you to turn to shopping whenever you feel sad or stressed? Has shopping caused you to rack up credit card debt, or do you feel compelled to hide unnecessary purchases from your loved ones?
If any of this sounds familiar, you may have oniomania (commonly referred to as shopping addiction). As with other types of addiction—including drug and alcohol addiction—shopping addiction can result from surges of neurotransmitters. When someone shops, their brain releases dopamine and endorphins, and the feelings produced by these neurotransmitters can gradually become addictive.
You may have an increased risk of developing shopping addiction if you:
If you think you might have a shopping addiction, it’s important that you consult with a therapist who has experience treating this issue. Luckily, you can get the help you need at our practice. We understand the effect that shopping addiction can have on a person’s life, and we’ll develop a course of treatment that’s tailored to your personal circumstances. Contact us today and let us know that you’d like to schedule an initial consultation. We look forward to meeting with you.
Autism spectrum disorder (commonly referred to as just “autism”) is a developmental and neurological disorder that can impact how someone behaves, communicates, interacts, and learns. Although the term “high-functioning autism” isn’t an official medical diagnosis, it’s commonly used in reference to autistic people who can speak, read, write, and perform life skills with minimal assistance. […]
Autism spectrum disorder (commonly referred to as just “autism”) is a developmental and neurological disorder that can impact how someone behaves, communicates, interacts, and learns. Although the term “high-functioning autism” isn’t an official medical diagnosis, it’s commonly used in reference to autistic people who can speak, read, write, and perform life skills with minimal assistance. The medical community previously used the term “Asperger’s syndrome” to describe high-functioning autism but officially retired its usage in 2013.
As its full name suggests, autism is considered to be on a spectrum because each person experiences the disorder differently, with some requiring more support than others. The medical community classifies autism into three levels, ranging from Level 1 (which requires the least support) to Level 3 (which requires the most support). Many people consider individuals at Level 1 to have high-functioning autism. It’s important to note that some autistic people fluctuate between levels from one day to another or even within the course of the same day.
If you think that you or a loved one might have high-functioning autism or another level of autism, we invite you to schedule a consultation with one of the knowledgeable therapists on our team. We have extensive experience working with autistic patients, and we’ll be happy to provide you with tips and tools that are customized to your specific needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at a date and time that’s convenient for you.
According to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD), approximately 9% of the U.S. population will have an eating disorder at some point in their lifetime. One of the most common eating disorders is anorexia nervosa (often referred to as just “anorexia”). Below, we explain what anorexia is and who may be […]
According to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD), approximately 9% of the U.S. population will have an eating disorder at some point in their lifetime. One of the most common eating disorders is anorexia nervosa (often referred to as just “anorexia”). Below, we explain what anorexia is and who may be most vulnerable to it.
Before discussing who anorexia primarily affects, it may be helpful to explain exactly what it is. Anorexia is an eating disorder that causes someone to have a distorted perception of their weight as well as an extreme fear of gaining weight. Many people with this disorder severely restrict their caloric intake, exercise excessively, or purge after eating. As a result, individuals with anorexia often have a dangerously low body weight.
Researchers are still working to determine exactly what causes anorexia, but studies suggest that it may involve a combination of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors. Although anyone can develop anorexia, it’s especially common among females, adolescents, and teenagers. You may be particularly vulnerable to it if:
If you struggle with anorexia—or if you suspect that a loved one may be living with this condition—we can help. Our compassionate therapists are highly experienced in treating anorexia and other eating disorders, and we’ll provide you with the customized treatment you deserve. Contact us today to learn more about our practice and schedule an initial consultation.
Many new mothers experience the “baby blues” for a couple of weeks after giving birth—this often includes anxiety, crying, difficulty concentrating, irritability, mood swings, reduced appetite, sadness, and trouble sleeping. But if your symptoms are especially severe or persist for longer than two weeks, you might have what’s known as postpartum depression. Postpartum depression has […]
Many new mothers experience the “baby blues” for a couple of weeks after giving birth—this often includes anxiety, crying, difficulty concentrating, irritability, mood swings, reduced appetite, sadness, and trouble sleeping. But if your symptoms are especially severe or persist for longer than two weeks, you might have what’s known as postpartum depression.
Postpartum depression has numerous potential causes. With regard to physical causes, the sudden drop in estrogen, progesterone, and other hormones that occurs after giving birth can cause a new mother to feel depressed. Genetics also play a role, since having a family history of postpartum depression can increase a woman’s risk of experiencing the condition. With regard to emotional causes, feeling anxious or overwhelmed about caring for a newborn can lead to postpartum depression, as can struggling with self-esteem and sense of identity.
You may have an increased risk of developing postpartum depression if:
Keep in mind that having one or more of these risk factors simply increases your chances of experiencing postpartum depression—some women have multiple risk factors but don’t develop depression, while others become depressed without having any known risk factors.
If you think you might have postpartum depression, it’s important that you don’t delay seeking the help you need. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of the compassionate therapists on our team. We have extensive experience treating postpartum depression, and we’ll draw on this background to provide you with personalized care recommendations.
Seasonal depression, also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD for short, is a form of depression that typically impacts people during the winter months, when exposure to sunlight and temperature changes naturally occur. Research indicates that about six percent of the American population, primarily those people living in northern states, suffers from SAD. It is […]
Seasonal depression, also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD for short, is a form of depression that typically impacts people during the winter months, when exposure to sunlight and temperature changes naturally occur.
Research indicates that about six percent of the American population, primarily those people living in northern states, suffers from SAD. It is also believed that one in ten Americans experience subsyndromal SAD, a milder form of seasonal depression, also called the “winter blues.” And, though the disorder can affect both men and women, it is more common among women.
Symptoms of seasonal depression include:
Though some people confuse SAD as simply moodiness, it is a real form of depression that is dependent on an individual’s hormonal state, as well as seasonal characteristics like exposure to light and temperature.
If you or a loved one are affected by seasonal depression, here are three ways you can reduce the symptoms that impact the quality of life.
Get Outside
While the temperatures outside may be a bit harsher than you’d like, it’s still a great idea to bundle up and get some sunshine, as much as you can. Our bodies need sunlight to boost our levels of vitamin D. Among other things, a vitamin D deficiency has been linked to mood swings, headaches and fatigue.
Exercise is also one of the best ways to release the feel-good hormone, serotonin. But it is much better to walk for a half hour outside in the sunlight than to get on the treadmill inside. So, if you can bare the chill in the air, head outside and get that body moving.
Use a SAD Light
Of course, there will be those days when the sun refuses to show its face and the weather is too severe to spend much, if any, time outside. The use of a SAD light can help reduce the symptoms of seasonal depression.
SAD lights are also called light therapy boxes, and the light they produce mimics natural outdoor light. Light therapy is believed to affect brain chemicals linked to mood and sleep, like serotonin and melatonin, easing SAD symptoms.
Eat More Produce
Feelings of anxiety are common among those suffering with seasonal depression, but according to Dr. Uma Naidoo of Harvard Medical School, relief may be found at the end of your fork. Fruits and vegetables are rich sources of essential nutrients like magnesium and zinc that ease anxiety and make people feel calmer. While you may be tempted to eat starchy comfort foods like bread and pasta, your best bet is to load up on as many whole foods as you can, with an emphasis on organic produce.
While the cold weather is likely to have most of us dreaming about spring, winter doesn’t have to be an emotional trial. By following these tips you may be able to lesson your SAD symptoms and get through winter unscathed.
If you or a loved one is currently feeling overwhelmed by SAD symptoms, and is interested in exploring treatment, please contact me today. I would be happy to speak with you about how I may be able to help.
You may have heard about post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but what about post-traumatic embitterment disorder (PTED)? PTED is a condition that produces chronic feelings of bitterness and resentment after someone experiences a negative life event (for example, being bullied, assaulted, or fired from a job). PTED may be more likely to occur if the person […]
You may have heard about post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but what about post-traumatic embitterment disorder (PTED)? PTED is a condition that produces chronic feelings of bitterness and resentment after someone experiences a negative life event (for example, being bullied, assaulted, or fired from a job).
PTED may be more likely to occur if the person worked hard to achieve their goals before being let down. For example, if someone worked overtime or took on extra responsibilities to get a promotion but instead was let go, they may believe that their firing was particularly unjust, causing them to feel bitter and resentful.
Post-traumatic embitterment disorder symptoms can vary from one person to another. With that said, PTED often causes people to feel:
Individuals with PTED often blame others rather than taking accountability for their own problems. Symptoms like these can keep someone with PTED from moving on with their life, affecting their relationships and in some cases even leading to thoughts of self-harm and suicide.
Would you like to know more about post-traumatic embitterment disorder? If so, contact us today. The therapists on our team are highly experienced in treating PTED and can provide you with additional insight into potential causes, symptoms, and treatment options. We look forward to speaking with you and helping you take the next step with moving on from a traumatic life event.
