Infidelity

From the time of Moses’ wandering in the desert to our age of celebrity indulgence, tales of infidelity continue to perplex and distress, and to tear at the fabric of family and community. Distressingly common and potentially devastating, there are identifiable causes and potential solutions. For insights, see the most recent Advantage EAP Newsletter by Steve Strosnider http://www.psychhealthroanoke.com/Resources/April2010-Infidelity.pdf.

Jennifer Davis on VT Psychology Practicum

This past semester I was given an incredible opportunity as an undergradute intern at Psychological Health Roanoke. The clinicians were always so willing to help and taught me so many things that I never would have learned in school. Getting to sit in on different therapy sessions each week was one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve ever had. The rest of the staff was always pleasant to be around and so helpful with everything. The internship made me positive that Clinical Psychology is what I want to do for the rest of my life.

Barbara Horton on Greg Mortenson

Greg Mortensen, author of "Three Cups of Tea" and "Stones into Schools," spoke in the Hollins University's Distinguished Speakers Series. An engaging, down to earth speaker, he makes a convincing case that schools, not bombs should lead the peace initiative in the Middle East, as well as the rest of the world. Drawing on both scientific research and anecdote, Mortensen notes that when girls are educated, birth rates decline, health in communities improves and people find peaceful means of employment. He explained that when a man goes on a jihad, or spiritual quest, he must first obtain permission from his mother –- and that more highly educated women are less likely to support jihads that are linked to terrorism.
"Three Cups of Tea" is endorsed by highly ranked members of our military, including Generals Petraeus and McChyrstal, who advocate building relationships in communities in Iraq and Afghanistan.

For more information, go to http://www.threecupsoftea.com/.

Dorene Fick at Lewis Gale Behavioral Health

The Mental Health professionals at Lewis Gale Behavioral Health Pavilion are a dedicated work group, challenged by the rapid turnover of patients and the fast pace of their day-to-day clinical environment. Dorene Fick, LCSW, has been guiding the staff in the development of a Peer Supervision Group which focuses on both professional development and clinical service. Meeting monthly, the group engages in dynamic case management through collaborative feedback and critique, and builds expertise via topical presentations and article reviews.

For more about Lewis Gale Medical Center Behavioral Health: http://www.lewis-gale.com/CustomPage.asp?guidCustomContentID=59AC5D6C-0C89-11D4-A2CB-00508B1245EF

Quitting Smoking

We all know the devastating health consequences of smoking. Legions have quit the habit. Yet many others continue to succumb to this potent addiction. Even though there are more and more medical technologies to enable the will of those who would be smoke free, the struggle goes on. Sometimes it all comes down to capturing the moment that is ripe for change. Maybe that moment is NOW.
Our current Advantage EAP Newsletter on quitting smoking is at
http://www.psychhealthroanoke.com/Resources/March2010-SmokingCessation.pdf

Ron Salzbach on Music as Therapy

Watching the Beatles on the Ed Sullivan show at 12 years old, I knew I had to learn to play the guitar. By age 14, I started up a band with 3 neighborhood friends. My dad bought a station wagon to haul the equipment, and we started making a little money in the latter part of the exciting 1960’s. When it became clear that we were not going to become The Beatles, we moved on. My love for all types of music continues. It’s my therapy.
For a look at Ron back in the day go to http://www.psychhealthroanoke.com/Resources/RSalzbachMusicJan10.pdf
And - Some of Ron's music is availble in the Resource Section of our website

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy

Barbara Horton, LCSW, spoke on Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for Borderline Personality Disorders in February to the Lewis Gale Pavilion Peer Supervision Group, lead by Dorene Fick.

DBT was developed by Marsha Linehan at the University of Washington in 1993. This two year program teaches daily use of personal coping skills that are typically lacking in Borderline Personality Disorder. These include: mindfulness, dealing with personal crises, managing emotional swings, and interacting with others in a less volatile and more constructive manner. This program has shown favorable results where conventional approaches to psychotherapy have failed.

For more information:
http://behavioraltech.org/index.cfm?CFID=25880723&CFTOKEN=46361464

Winter Olympics

The quadrennial Winter Olympics are here again for a brief wisp of time as athletes curl, swirl, ski, skate and slide their way to joy and glory. These Games continue to move to the forefront of sport consciousness swept along by a growing Gen X & Y mentality. The most recent tag of "NASCAR on Ice" speaks to their expanding reach. The higher, stronger faster dimension of the snow and ice games is palpable and an inherent part of their appeal.

For insight on the risk taking mentality in sport & efforts to help athletes compete safely, go to:
http://www.psychhealthroanoke.com/Resources/risktakingfinal(3).pdf

Disposing of Unused Medications

When the medicine cabinet is full to overflowing, what is the solution? For all their remarkable benefits, medications carry certain risks and responsibilities. Old medicines may go out of date and lose their effectiveness. Leftover pills may provide a means to self-medicate for a new problem without a doctor’s advice, a fairly common but still potentially dangerous practice. And certain medications, for example “pain pills,” may pose a temptation to the recreational drug user.
The February Advantage EAP Newsletter summarizes advice from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on proper disposal of medications
FDA guidelines for the safe disposal of a broad range of medications are available at http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm101653.htm

Health Care Legislation & Mental Health

Without proper health care, the inalienable rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness are gradually eroded. The American Psychological Association is actively at work in the health care reform legislation that is now in Congress. APA’s efforts in advocating for quality health care have focused on the mind-body connection in health and mental health disorders.

For information on the status of the proposed health care legislation and mental health initiatives go to http://www.apa.org/health-reform/

New Year's Resolutions Revisited

As January grinds forward, the cold may chill your will to keep those new years resolutions going forward. To help keep yourself on track with a good start to 2010 take a look at the January Advantage EAP Newsletter on setting realistic goals and making healthy new ways a part of your lifestyle. The newsletter is available at http://www.psychhealthroanoke.com/Resources/January2010NewYearNewYou.pdf

PHR Clinicians Receive Bedside Manner Awards

Congratulations are due to all the winners of the 3rd Annual Bedside Manner Awards, sponsored by Ourhealth magazine. We would like to recognize those at Psychological Health Roanoke who have been honored, including Alison Allsbrook, Lola Byrd, Emily DeFrance and Cathy Taylor. Special kudos to Steve Strosnider for his 1st place award.
A full list of honorees can be viewed at http://www.ourhealthvirginia.com/