Behavioral Health Clinic

  The Basics:  Psychopharmacology is the study of how medicines impact the brain and resulting emotional and behavioral responses. Though medicinal practices of unique nature are woven into the histories of various cultural backgrounds, the study and implementation of more formal intervention became a part of the medical model as we know it today in the 1800s. At its roots and in the present day, psychopharmacology rests on the assumption that mental illness is attributed at least in part to a biological disturbance. In light of this, the use of medications aims either to alleviate presently experienced symptoms or deter recurrence or relapse of previously experienced symptoms through impacting the neurotransmitter systems and chemical imbalances in the brain. The study and implementation of this targeted intervention has grown immensely, now effectively treating a plethora of mental pathologies, including depression, anxiety,  ADHD  and countless others. From Contro...

  The practice of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) rightfully holds a seat at the table of many current discussions relating to trauma,  mental health , treatment options, and more. Opinions on its effectiveness and theoretical basis are wide ranging, making it a controversial topic today, even decades after its introduction to the field. In light of this, a discussion on the history and background of the treatment modality is included below to further increase awareness and acceptance of EMDR amongst the general public and clinical community. What is EMDR?  EMDR is a therapeutic approach widely used by trained  mental health  professionals in a variety of treatment settings. American psychologist Francine Shapiro stumbled upon the practice while on a walk in 1987, during which she experienced a relief of distressing thoughts and images while her eyes naturally dashed rapidly. Over the next several months, Shapiro created a standard therapeut...

  As you may recall from  part 1  sleep quality impacts our greater mental and physical health in a variety of ways. Even so, achieving adequate sleep can prove to be a great challenge. In light of this, below are a few introductory tips and things to consider, alongside reminders, for those who are hoping to improve their sleep habits! Tips & Considerations: Be mindful of food and beverage choices throughout the day! Consuming alcohol or caffeine in the hours that lead up to bedtime can greatly alter the length and quality of the night’s rest. Given each individual reacts to and metabolizes these substances differently, utilize your best judgment and err on the side of caution when consuming them in the afternoon or evening hours, consulting a professional as needed for further guidance. Additionally, light, healthy snacks may be enjoyed up until it is time to rest, while full, hearty meals should be avoided in the 2 hours directly preceding sleep time. Allow yoursel...

  Have you ever returned home from a trip feeling exhausted or irritable, finding it difficult to focus or find motivation? These are some common symptoms of jetlag, the body’s natural response to traveling over two or more time zones in a brief period of time. Adjusting mentally and physically to a new time zone can take days and potentially weeks, but could you imagine experiencing this adjustment more frequently, despite having no travel plans? Unfortunately, this is a reality for many individuals who experience jetlag-like symptoms which sprout from their social demands, commonly known as social jetlag. Researchers have found that this phenomenon impacts two-thirds of individuals currently studying or working in industrialized countries (Caliandro, 2021). What is Social Jetlag?  Social jetlag is the term used to describe inconsistent sleep patterns that result from a difference in our internal biological clock and our external social clock. Put simply, social jetlag happen...