Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Six vignettes Many of my clients ask questions about Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), so I thought it would be valuable to post some real-life examples of what OCD can look like. Most psychologists didn’t receive training in how to treat OCD in graduate … [Read more...] about Learn to recognize OCD: It’s more common than you think.
How to manage hot flashes
You don't have to suffer. There's a lot you can do. Women in my private practice as a psychologist sometimes talk about experiencing hot flashes during perimenopause and menopause. Their collective wisdom has led to the creation of these 27 tips to help you better manage hot flashes. … [Read more...] about How to manage hot flashes
Diagnosing pelvic floor pain in women
If you suffer from pelvic floor pain, getting an accurate diagnosis for the location and the cause of the pain is a laborious and often elusive experience for many women. Pelvic floor pain occurs when muscles that surround the vagina knot. When the knots don’t release, the pain can become … [Read more...] about Diagnosing pelvic floor pain in women
Women and regret after giving birth
I used to work in a maternity clinic for a while. Physicians would refer women to meet with me that were struggling in the weeks immediately after giving birth. … [Read more...] about Women and regret after giving birth
Being philosophical about aging
I learned several days ago that my neighbour, Sharon, has a problem with her lower back. She has a damaged disc near the base of her spine. Her physiotherapist told her this is not an uncommon problem. She is 53-years old. The physiotherapist said disc problems can come with aging and the inevitable … [Read more...] about Being philosophical about aging
The difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist
In my practice, I often explain to people how the occupations of a psychologist and a psychiatrist differ, because the majority of people do not know the answer. It is important to understand these differences when you or someone you know is dealing with a major psychological disorder so that you … [Read more...] about The difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist
What is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar Disorder is a psychiatric disorder most easily identified by its severe mood swings, or 'mood disturbances.' The term ‘Bipolar Disorder’ has replaced the terms ‘manic depression’ and 'manic depressive disorder,’ which are no longer commonly used. … [Read more...] about What is Bipolar Disorder?
What are the symptoms of Bipolar Disorder?
Often times when I meet with a new client who is experiencing exaggerated mood swings that they feel unable to control, we will investigate whether the client has met diagnostic criteria for a manic episode, a hypomanic episode, and/or a major depressive episode. … [Read more...] about What are the symptoms of Bipolar Disorder?
Where can I learn about Bipolar Disorder?
Many of the clients that I counsel who have Bipolar Disorder, as well as family members of those diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, have found it helpful to read about the experiences of others who have lived with Bipolar Disorder. Here are three suggested books that provide accounts of what it has … [Read more...] about Where can I learn about Bipolar Disorder?