There are few things that thrill our hearts more than the first glimpse of red, gold, and orange-hued leaves summoned by the crisp air and abbreviated sun-filled hours. Around this time of year, the trees really start to show off, splashing about their autumn finery for all to see. The cooler temperatures fill us with new energy, and visions of costumes, candy, turkeys, and trees dance in our heads. And any season synonymous with pumpkin spice lattes is tops in our books.
All this talk of seasonal fun makes us wonder, when was the last time you played? Really just let loose and had fun? We often forget our sense of playfulness as the responsibilities of adulthood demand our constant attention, but Dr. Tian Dayton insists that play is not just for the schoolyard set. With benefits far-reaching and important to vital wellbeing, play may be just what the doctor ordered.
The word extrovert automatically summons an image of gregarious, sociable, crowd-loving individuals. But is there such a thing as a socially phobic extrovert? There is, according to Dr. Steven Brodsky, who lifts the veil on this little-known and –understood disorder.
We know that mental health professionals are not in it for the money, but is there a point at which one’s passion for this work outlives one’s ability to function at full competency? Thomas Peltz approaches this delicate issue with due respect and a clear eye to the real issues that face aging mental health professionals.
Gail Hromadko, MFT, returns with Part 2 of her intriguing primer on the world of equine therapy. This month she explains the connection between trauma and addictions and how horses help gently break down years’ worth of pain and self-destructive behavior patterns.
The topic of child sexual abuse evokes such intense emotional reactions from most that it can be difficult to speak of for adults and, especially, children. Even more complicated is the subject of child sexual abuse with boys. Carol Teitelbaum, MFT, bravely faces this issue head-on, emphasizing the damage done by keeping quiet, and showing how we can empower our boys (and adults) to speak up so healing can finally begin.
Avoidance and distraction are typical responses to any bump in the road or major affliction in life. However, Peter Pamela Rose, PCC, thinks it just might be these very challenges that can propel you on to bigger and better things – or just teach you patience and how to be at peace in the midst of the storm.
Once lumped into the “Woo-Woo” category of psychology, Energy Psychology has fought hard to earn its place as a respected treatment approach. Michael Yeager explains what it is – along with its sister, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) – and how it is used in mental health and addictions treatment.
A new policy in one insurance company is creating quite a stir between clinicians, clients, and even congressmen. Joan Borsten explains what the hubbub is all about and what you can do to help.
Most people dream about a magic pill that, once taken, will remove any desire to engage in harmful behavior – from drinking to using to overeating. A new so-called alcohol vaccine may be a dream come true for some; John Lavitt breaks down the pros and cons of this innovation.
Robert Hammond returns to our Book Club with his new title, “Transformed by Writing: How to Change Your Life and Change the World with the Power of Story”. In the world of addictions, there is no shortage of remarkable stories, many of which would make an amazing book. Hammond shows you how to make that dream a reality.
Finally, this month’s Featured Member is the venerable Dr. Louise Stanger, a long-time interventionist, educator, and innovator in the field of addictions treatment. Her passion and dedication to her clients and students is genuinely inspiring.
We hope you enjoy this issue – preferably with a seasonal latte and a sweater – and take time to soak in the colors and scents of the season. Until next month…
Blessings,
Josie and Jim
