AMR Therapy | Online Video Therapy

What We Treat

AMR providers treat a variety of mental disorders, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and mood disorders. Therapy can be conducted in individual or multiple-person sessions. Therapy usually involves the use of verbal and nonverbal communication to help the clients understand and cope with their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Therapy can be an extremely effective treatment for mental disorders, helping clients to gain insight into their condition and learn coping mechanisms.

  • Anxiety Disorders
  • Eating Disorders
  • Gender Dysphoria
  • Grief Disorders
  • Mood Disorders
  • Depression
  • Neurological Disorders (Neurodiversity)
  • Substance Abuse
  • Trauma

Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders are a type of mental health condition that can cause a person to feel anxious, scared, or worried in everyday situations. There are several types of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias.

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is when someone feels anxious or worried about a variety of everyday situations. People with GAD often find it difficult to control their worrying, and their anxiety can interfere with their daily life.

Panic disorder is characterized by sudden and unexpected panic attacks. During a panic attack, a person may experience symptoms such as a racing heart, sweating, trembling, and shortness of breath. Panic disorder can be very frightening and can make it difficult for a person to engage in daily activities.

Social anxiety disorder is when someone is excessively self-conscious or fearful in social situations. This can include situations such as speaking in public, meeting new people, or being observed while performing a task.

Specific phobias are intense fears of a particular object or situation. Examples of specific phobias include fear of spiders, heights, or flying. These fears can be so intense that they can interfere with a person’s daily life.

Research suggests that anxiety disorders are common, affecting approximately 18% of adults in the United States. Women are more likely to experience anxiety disorders than men. Anxiety disorders can affect people of any age, but they often first appear in childhood or adolescence.

The impact of anxiety disorders can be significant, affecting a person’s ability to work, socialize, and engage in everyday activities. Anxiety disorders can also have physical effects, such as headaches, muscle tension, and fatigue. Neurologically, anxiety disorders have been linked to changes in brain chemistry and activity. Studies have shown that people with anxiety disorders may have an overactive amygdala, which is the part of the brain that controls the fear response.

There are several treatments available for anxiety disorders, including medication, therapy, or a combination of both. Medications such as antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can help reduce symptoms of anxiety. Therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, can help people with anxiety disorders learn coping skills and reduce their symptoms.

Here are three case studies that illustrate how therapy can help people with anxiety disorders:

John is a 14-year-old boy who experiences severe social anxiety. He feels extremely self-conscious in social situations, especially when he is asked to speak in front of others. He often avoids social situations altogether, which is causing him to miss out on important experiences with friends and family. Through cognitive-behavioral therapy, John learns to identify and challenge his negative thoughts about social situations. He also practices relaxation techniques and gradually exposes himself to social situations, with the guidance of his therapist. Over time, John’s anxiety reduces, and he becomes more comfortable in social situations.

Maria is a 32-year-old woman who has been experiencing panic attacks for several months. She often feels like she can’t breathe and is afraid that she’s going to die. These panic attacks are causing her to avoid activities that she used to enjoy, such as going to the movies or driving. Through therapy, Maria learns to identify the triggers that are causing her panic attacks and learns relaxation techniques to manage her symptoms. She also works on changing her negative thoughts about panic attacks and learns to challenge them with more realistic thoughts. With time and practice, Maria’s panic attacks reduce in frequency and intensity.

Eating Disorders

Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that affect millions of people worldwide. They are characterized by abnormal eating habits and can have life-threatening consequences. The three most common types of eating disorders are anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder.

Anorexia nervosa is a disorder that is primarily characterized by a fear of gaining weight, leading to severe calorie restriction and sometimes excessive exercise. This disorder affects mainly young girls and women, with about 0.9% of women in the United States experiencing anorexia in their lifetime. Anorexia can have many severe consequences, including heart problems, osteoporosis, and even death.

Bulimia nervosa is another disorder that involves episodes of binge-eating followed by purging, often through vomiting or laxative abuse. This disorder affects both men and women, with about 1.5% of women and 0.5% of men in the United States experiencing bulimia in their lifetime. Bulimia can cause a range of health problems, including electrolyte imbalances, gastrointestinal issues, and tooth decay.

Binge eating disorder is characterized by episodes of overeating, often followed by feelings of guilt or shame. This disorder can affect both men and women, with about 3.5% of women and 2% of men in the United States experiencing binge eating disorder in their lifetime. Binge eating disorder can lead to obesity and associated health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure.

The impact of eating disorders can be devastating, both physically and mentally. These disorders can affect people of all ages, but they tend to be more prevalent among adolescents and young adults. The exact causes of eating disorders are not fully understood, but they are believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors.

Neurologically, eating disorders have been shown to involve disruptions in brain activity, particularly in regions of the brain involved in reward and motivation. These disruptions can contribute to the development of abnormal eating behaviors and can make it difficult for individuals with eating disorders to control their food intake.

Fortunately, there are many effective treatments available for individuals with eating disorders. These treatments often involve a combination of therapy and medication, and may include cognitive-behavioral therapy, family-based therapy, and antidepressant medications.

Here are a few examples of how therapy can be beneficial for folks:

Sarah is a 16-year-old girl who has been struggling with anorexia nervosa for several months. She has lost a significant amount of weight and is experiencing a range of health problems. Through therapy, Sarah learns to challenge her negative thoughts about her body image and to develop healthier eating habits. With the help of her therapist and family, she is able to regain weight and improve her overall health.

Tom is a 24-year-old man who has been struggling with bulimia nervosa for several years. He has experienced a range of health problems and has difficulty controlling his eating behaviors. Through therapy, Tom learns to develop more positive coping strategies and to challenge his negative thoughts about food and his body image. With the help of his therapist, Tom is able to reduce his bingeing and purging behaviors and improve his overall health.

Lisa is a 30-year-old woman who has been struggling with binge eating disorder for several years. She has gained a significant amount of weight and is experiencing a range of health problems. Through therapy, Lisa learns to identify her triggers for binge eating and to develop healthier coping strategies. With the help of her therapist, Lisa is able to reduce her binge eating behaviors and improve her overall health.

Gender Dysphoria

Gender Dysphoria is a medical condition in which an individual experiences distress and discomfort due to the mismatch between their gender identity and their assigned gender. This condition can manifest in different ways, such as body dysphoria, social dysphoria, or gender identity disorder.

Body dysphoria is a type of Gender Dysphoria in which an individual feels discomfort and distress about their physical characteristics, such as their genitals, chest, or body hair. Social dysphoria is another type of Gender Dysphoria in which an individual feels distress about the social aspects of their gender identity, such as their name, pronouns, or the way they are perceived by others. 

Gender identity disorder is a broader term used to describe the general distress experienced by individuals whose gender identity differs from their assigned gender.

Research suggests that Gender Dysphoria affects a significant number of individuals, with estimates ranging from 0.5% to 1% of the population. This condition can impact individuals of any age, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status, although it is more prevalent among transgender individuals.

Several neurological features have been associated with Gender Dysphoria, such as differences in brain structure, function, and connectivity. For example, studies have found that the brains of transgender individuals are more similar to the brains of individuals of their experienced gender than to the brains of individuals of their assigned gender.

Several therapy treatments are available for individuals experiencing Gender Dysphoria, including psychotherapy, hormone therapy, and surgery. Psychotherapy can help individuals explore their gender identity and develop coping strategies to manage distress. Hormone therapy can help individuals modify their physical characteristics to match their gender identity, while surgery can help individuals modify their genitals or other body parts.

Here are a few examples of how therapy can be beneficial for folks:

Sara is a 34-year-old transgender woman who experiences body dysphoria. She feels uncomfortable with her masculine features, such as facial hair and a deep voice. Through therapy and counseling, Sara learns how to manage her distress.

Alex is a 25-year-old transgender man who experiences social dysphoria. He feels distressed about using his birth name and feminine pronouns. Through counseling and support from his family and friends, Alex can transition socially and legally to better align with his gender identity.

Jamie is a 40-year-old non-binary person who experiences gender identity disorder. They feel distressed about not fitting into the binary gender system and struggle with societal expectations and discrimination. Through psychotherapy and support from the LGBTQ+ community, Jamie can develop a better understanding of their identity and find ways to cope with their distress.

The Nguyen family is a Vietnamese-American family with a 39-year-old transgender son, Dylan. Dylan’s parents were struggling to understand their son’s gender identity and were unsure of how to support him. They decided to seek family therapy to learn more about gender identity and how to best support Dylan. Through therapy, the Nguyen family learned how to communicate more effectively, develop better coping skills, and support Dylan in his transition.

The Patel family is an Indian-American family with a 28-year-old transgender daughter, Maya. Maya’s parents were initially resistant to her transition and felt that it went against their cultural and religious beliefs. However, they eventually decided to seek therapy to better understand their daughter’s gender identity and learn how to support her. Through therapy, the Patel family learned how to reconcile their cultural and religious beliefs with their daughter’s gender identity, communicate more effectively, and provide a safe and supportive home environment for Maya.

Jamie and Taylor are a same-sex couple in their late 20s. Taylor recently came out as non-binary and has been experiencing gender dysphoria. Jamie has been supportive but has been struggling to understand what non-binary means and how to support Taylor. They decided to seek couples therapy to learn more about gender identity and how to best support each other. Through therapy, they learned how to communicate more effectively, develop better coping skills, and support each other in their respective journeys.

Alex and Sam are a married couple in their mid-40s. Alex recently came out as genderfluid and has been experiencing gender dysphoria. Sam has been supportive but has been struggling with the changes that come with Alex’s gender identity exploration. They decided to seek couples therapy to work through their issues and learn how to support each other better. Through therapy, they learned how to communicate more effectively, develop better coping skills, and support each other in their respective journeys. They also learned how to navigate any potential challenges or discrimination that Alex might face in the future.

Grief Disorders

Grief is a natural and expected response to loss. However, for some individuals, the grieving process may become overwhelming and develop into a grief disorder. Grief disorders are common mental health conditions that can occur following the loss of a loved one or a significant life change.

According to the World Health Organization, approximately 10-20% of people experience prolonged and disabling grief after the death of a spouse or child. Additionally, research shows that about 7% of people experience complicated grief, which can significantly impact their ability to function in daily life.

There are different types of grief disorders, including acute grief, complicated grief, delayed grief, and masked grief. Acute grief is a normal and expected response to loss and typically lasts for a few weeks to a few months. Complicated grief is characterized by persistent and intense symptoms that last for an extended period, often for more than a year. Delayed grief may occur months or even years after a loss and may be triggered by a significant life event or reminder of the loss. Masked grief is a type of grief where the person experiences symptoms of grief but is unaware that they are related to a loss.

Fortunately, therapy can help individuals experiencing grief disorders by providing a safe and supportive environment to process their feelings and emotions. Different types of therapy may be used, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, and grief-focused therapy. Therapists can help individuals understand and cope with their emotions, identify negative thought patterns, develop healthy coping skills, and build a support system. In some cases, medication may also be prescribed to manage symptoms of grief disorders.

At the end of the day, it’s important to normalize grief and understand that it’s a natural part of the human experience. Seeking professional help through therapy can be an effective way to manage and alleviate symptoms of grief disorders, and ultimately improve overall quality of life for those experiencing grief.

Here are a few examples of how therapy can be beneficial for folks:

Nora recently lost her husband to COVID-19. She has been experiencing acute grief, including intense sadness, crying, and difficulty sleeping. She feels like she can’t function in her day-to-day life and struggles to find joy in things she used to enjoy. Nora decides to seek therapy to help her manage her grief. She begins seeing a therapist who specializes in grief counseling. The therapist provides a safe and supportive environment for Nora to process her emotions. They use a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy and grief-focused therapy to help Nora identify negative thought patterns and develop healthy coping skills. Over time, Nora begins to understand and accept her loss and works towards building a new life without her husband.

Julie lost her mother to cancer several years ago. She has been struggling with feelings of sadness, guilt, and regret, which have impacted her relationships and daily life.

Julie decides to seek therapy to help her manage her delayed grief. She begins seeing a therapist who specializes in grief counseling. The therapist provides a space for Julie to process her delayed grief and identify the root cause of her emotions. They use a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy and grief-focused therapy to help Julie challenge negative beliefs about herself and her relationship with her mother. They also help Julie develop healthy coping mechanisms to manage her emotions and improve her quality of life.

Dawn recently lost her job due to company downsizing. She has been feeling unmotivated and unhappy but doesn’t realize that her emotions are related to her job loss. Dawn decides to seek therapy to help her manage her masked grief. She begins seeing a therapist who specializes in cognitive-behavioral therapy. The therapist provides a safe and supportive environment for Dawn to explore her emotions and identify the root cause of her masked grief. They use cognitive-behavioral therapy to help Dawn challenge negative thoughts and beliefs about her job loss. They also help Dawn identify and address any underlying issues that may be contributing to her masked grief, such as financial stress or relationship issues. Over time, Dawn begins to feel more motivated and happy as she develops healthy coping mechanisms to manage her emotions.

Mood Disorders

Mood disorders are a group of mental health conditions that affect a person’s emotional state and impact their ability to function in their daily lives. There are several different types of mood disorders, including:

  1. Major depressive disorder: This is a severe and persistent form of depression that affects a person’s mood, energy levels, and ability to engage in daily activities.
  2. Bipolar disorder: This is a condition characterized by mood swings that alternate between episodes of depression and periods of mania or hypomania.
  3. Persistent depressive disorder: This is a chronic form of depression that lasts for two years or longer.
  4. Cyclothymic disorder: This is a milder form of bipolar disorder that involves less severe mood swings.
  5. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): This is a type of depression that occurs during the winter months when there is less sunlight.
  6. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD): This is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) that affects a woman’s mood and functioning.

Mood disorders can manifest in a variety of ways, depending on the type of disorder and the individual. Symptoms may include persistent sadness, feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness, irritability, fatigue, loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite and sleep patterns, and suicidal thoughts. Mood disorders are a significant mental health concern, affecting millions of individuals globally. Depression is a leading cause of disability worldwide, with approximately 7% of adults in the United States experiencing at least one major depressive episode in the past year. Bipolar disorder affects around 2.8% of adults in the United States, and persistent depressive disorder is estimated to affect 1.5% of adults. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) affects approximately 5% of adults, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) can impact 1-8% of women of reproductive age.

Psychotherapy can be an effective treatment option for mood disorders. It involves talking with a mental health professional about your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and learning new coping strategies to manage your symptoms. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) are all types of therapy that have been shown to be effective for mood disorders.

Here are a few examples of how therapy can be beneficial for folks:

Mick is a 35-year-old man who has been struggling with major depressive disorder for several years. He has tried medication in the past, but it has not been effective. Mick begins seeing a therapist for CBT and learns how to identify and challenge negative thoughts that contribute to his depression. Over time, he begins to feel more hopeful and less overwhelmed by his symptoms.

Sharon is a 28-year-old woman who has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder. She has experienced several episodes of mania and depression and struggles with mood instability. Sharon begins seeing a therapist for DBT and learns how to regulate her emotions and manage her symptoms. With the help of therapy, Sharon is able to stabilize her moods and improve her functioning.

Emanuel is a 45-year-old man who has been struggling with persistent depressive disorder for several years. He feels like he is stuck in a cycle of sadness and hopelessness and has lost interest in activities he used to enjoy. Emanuel begins seeing a therapist for IPT and learns how to improve his social relationships and reduce feelings of isolation. As he begins to rebuild his connections with others, Emanuel feels less alone and more motivated to engage in life.

Depression

Depression is a mood disorder that has been recognized and studied for centuries. In ancient Greece, Hippocrates referred to it as “melancholia,” while in the Middle Ages, it was referred to as “black bile.” It wasn’t until the 20th century that depression was recognized as a distinct mental health disorder with various subtypes.

Depression is a complex mood disorder that affects people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. While it can be caused by a variety of factors, research has identified several biological mechanisms that contribute to its development. One such factor is an imbalance in neurotransmitters, which are chemicals in the brain that regulate mood. Neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine are crucial in this process, and an imbalance in these chemicals can contribute to the development of depression.

Research has also shown that structural changes in the brain, such as a decrease in the size of the hippocampus, can occur in individuals with depression. This region of the brain plays a crucial role in learning, memory, and emotional regulation. People with a family history of depression are at a higher risk of developing depression themselves, indicating a possible genetic component to the disorder. Additionally, individuals who experience stressful life events such as the loss of a loved one, financial difficulties, or relationship problems are more likely to develop depression. Chronic medical conditions such as heart disease, cancer, and chronic pain can also contribute to the development of depression, possibly through a combination of biological and psychological factors.

Despite the various factors that can contribute to the development of depression, psychotherapy has been found to be a highly effective treatment method. Psychotherapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT) can help individuals learn coping strategies and techniques to manage their symptoms. Additionally, therapies like mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) have shown promising results in reducing symptoms of depression.

Therapy can help individuals identify and modify negative thought patterns and beliefs that contribute to their depression. It can also provide a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where individuals can process and work through difficult emotions and life events. By developing new coping skills and improving their emotional regulation, individuals can reduce their symptoms of depression and improve their overall quality of life.

Here are a few examples of how therapy can be beneficial for folks:

Ahmed is a 42-year-old man who has been experiencing symptoms of depression for several years. He has a history of chronic medical conditions and has been struggling with the physical limitations they impose. Ahmed had tried various medications in the past, but they didn’t provide much relief for his symptoms. He eventually decided to try therapy and was introduced to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). In therapy, Ahmed learned how to challenge his negative thoughts and beliefs, which had been contributing to his depression. With the help of therapy, Ahmed was able to manage his symptoms and improve his quality of life, despite his medical conditions.

Lena is a 27-year-old woman who recently graduated from college and started her first job. She has always been a high achiever and a perfectionist, but she is now finding it hard to adjust to her new role. Lena is having trouble sleeping and is always tired during the day. She also feels like she has lost interest in the things that used to bring her joy, such as going out with friends and reading books. Lena’s friends and family think that she is just going through a tough transition period, but Lena can’t seem to shake off her low mood. Through therapy, Lena was able to understand that her perfectionism and high standards were contributing to her depression. She learned techniques to manage her negative self-talk and unrealistic expectations and worked on setting achievable goals. With the help of her therapist, Lena was also able to develop a self-care routine that included exercise and relaxation techniques to improve her sleep and reduce her fatigue.

Samantha is a 25-year-old woman who has been experiencing depression symptoms for the past few years. She has tried various treatments, including therapy and medication, but nothing seems to be helping her. Upon further examination, Samantha’s therapist discovers that she has a family history of depression. Her mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother all suffered from depression and were eventually diagnosed with major depressive disorder. Samantha is shocked to hear about the genetic link to depression in her family, but it makes sense to her. She has always felt like there was something “wrong” with her, even though she had a good life and no traumatic experiences to explain her feelings. Samantha’s therapist explains that depression can be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. While she cannot change her genetics, she can work on managing her symptoms and preventing further episodes of depression. Through therapy, Samantha learns about the different types of depression and how to identify her triggers. She also works on developing healthy coping mechanisms, such as exercise and mindfulness practices, to manage her symptoms. With the support of her therapist and loved ones, Samantha learns to accept her family history of depression and understand that it is not her fault. She also becomes more confident in her ability to manage her symptoms and live a fulfilling life.

Neurological Disorders (Neurodiversity)

A neurological disorder, also known as a neurological condition, is a disorder of the nervous system that can affect the brain, spinal cord, and/or nerves. This can include conditions that impact mental health, such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by symptoms of inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, while ASD is a developmental disorder characterized by difficulties in social communication and interaction, as well as restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior. Both conditions can significantly impact mental health and require appropriate treatment and support. 

ADHD is estimated to affect approximately 7.2% of children and 2.5% of adults worldwide. The exact cause of ADHD is unknown, but research suggests that genetics, environmental factors, and brain structure and function may all contribute to its development. Common symptoms of ADHD include difficulty sustaining attention, forgetfulness, impulsivity, and hyperactivity.

ASD is estimated to affect approximately 1 in 54 people in the United States. The exact cause of ASD is also unknown, but research suggests that a combination of genetic and environmental factors may play a role. Common symptoms of ASD include difficulties in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors or interests.

It’s important to understand that neurological disorders are not a result of personal weakness, poor parenting, or lack of willpower. They are medical conditions that require appropriate diagnosis, treatment, and support. With the right treatment and support, individuals with neurological disorders can lead fulfilling lives and manage their symptoms effectively.

At AMR Therapy well believe in Neurodiversity as a completely acceptable and natural way to be human! Neurodiversity is the recognition and acceptance of the natural variations in human neurological and cognitive functioning. This means that individuals with different neurological profiles, such as those with ADHD or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), are not seen as “abnormal” or “defective,” but rather as individuals with unique strengths and challenges.

Therapy can play an essential role in promoting neurodiversity and helping individuals with neurodivergent profiles learn to accept and love themselves while navigating the world. Therapy can help individuals with ADHD or ASD develop coping strategies and skills to manage their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.

Therapy for neurodivergent individuals typically involves an approach called “neurodiversity-affirming therapy.” This approach emphasizes acceptance and self-love rather than trying to “fix” or “cure” individuals with neurodivergent profiles. The goal of therapy is to help individuals develop skills and strategies to function effectively in the world while embracing their unique strengths and differences.

Therapists may use a variety of techniques to help individuals with neurodivergent profiles, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and social skills training. These techniques can help individuals with ADHD or ASD learn coping strategies to manage anxiety, improve communication and social interaction, and develop self-advocacy skills.

In addition to therapy, embracing neurodiversity also involves creating a more inclusive and accommodating society. This can include providing sensory-friendly environments, recognizing the strengths that can come with neurodivergent profiles, and creating opportunities for neurodivergent individuals to thrive in their own way.

By embracing neurodiversity and using therapy to help individuals with neurodivergent profiles accept and love themselves, we can create a more inclusive and supportive society. This can improve outcomes and quality of life for neurodivergent individuals, while also promoting understanding and acceptance for all.

Here are a few examples of how therapy can be beneficial for folks:

Jane is a 32-year-old woman who was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) at the age of 25. Prior to her diagnosis, Jane had always felt like an outsider and struggled to fit in with her neurotypical peers. She often felt overwhelmed in social situations and had difficulty with sensory processing. After her diagnosis, Jane began working with a therapist who specialized in supporting neurodivergent individuals. Her therapist helped her understand her diagnosis and embrace her identity as an autistic person. Together, they worked on developing coping strategies for sensory overload and social anxiety. Through therapy, Jane was able to develop a sense of self-acceptance and self-compassion. She learned that her neurodivergent identity was a valid and valuable part of who she is. Jane also became involved in the autism community, which provided her with a sense of belonging and connection with others who shared her experiences.

Alex is a 16-year-old boy who was diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) at the age of 12. Alex had always struggled in school and had difficulty paying attention in class. He also struggled with impulsive behavior and had difficulty regulating his emotions. Alex began working with a therapist who specialized in supporting teens with ADHD. His therapist helped him develop strategies for improving his executive functioning skills, such as organization, planning, and time management. They also worked on developing strategies for managing impulsivity and regulating emotions. Through therapy, Alex gained a better understanding of his strengths and challenges as a person with ADHD. He learned to embrace his identity as a neurodivergent individual and to advocate for himself in school and social settings. With the support of his therapist, Alex was able to achieve academic success and improve his relationships with his family and peers.

Mary is a 28-year-old woman who has been struggling with depression and anxiety for several years. She has been in and out of therapy but has not found it helpful. She feels like her therapists don’t understand her and often dismiss her feelings as being “just stress.” Mary has always felt different from her peers, but she doesn’t know why. One day, she came across an article about autism in women and began to research it more. As she learned more about autism, she began to realize that many of the struggles she has faced throughout her life, such as difficulty with social interactions and sensory processing, could be explained by autism. She decided to seek out a therapist who specialized in working with autistic adults. In therapy, Mary was finally able to explore her feelings and experiences in a safe and supportive environment. Her therapist helped her understand her autism and how it has influenced her life. With this new understanding, Mary was able to develop strategies to cope with her sensory sensitivities and social difficulties. She also learned to embrace her unique perspective and talents, such as her attention to detail and creative problem-solving skills. As a result of therapy, Mary was able to improve her mental health and self-esteem and feel more confident in navigating the world as an autistic woman.

John is a 35-year-old man who has been experiencing significant stress and burnout at work. He has always been a high achiever and has worked hard to climb the corporate ladder, but he has been feeling increasingly unhappy and unfulfilled in his job. He has also been struggling with anxiety and insomnia. John’s therapist noticed that he was showing signs of ADHD, such as difficulty with focus and organization. She recommended that John be evaluated for ADHD and referred him to a specialist. After a thorough evaluation, John was diagnosed with ADHD. With this new understanding of his struggles, John was able to work with his therapist to develop strategies to manage his symptoms, such as setting clear goals and breaking tasks into smaller steps. He also learned to prioritize self-care and stress management techniques, such as exercise and mindfulness practices. As a result, John was able to improve his job performance and feel more fulfilled in his work. He also found that his overall mental health and quality of life improved as he learned to manage his ADHD symptoms effectively.

Substance Abuse

Substance abuse is a complex issue that affects millions of people worldwide. It refers to the use of drugs or alcohol in a way that is harmful to one’s physical or mental health, social life, or work. Substance abuse has a long and varied history, with different cultures and societies using various substances for thousands of years.

Our understanding of substance abuse has evolved over time. In the past, it was often seen as a moral failing or a lack of willpower. However, we now know that substance abuse is a medical condition that can have biological, genetic, and environmental causes. Substance abuse can have significant impacts on an individual’s life, including physical health problems, mental health disorders, social isolation, financial problems, and legal issues.

There are several different types of substance abuse disorders, including alcoholism, opioid addiction, stimulant abuse, and more. These disorders can be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors, and may involve changes in the brain’s chemistry and neural pathways.

Therapy can be an effective treatment for substance abuse. Various types of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing, can help individuals overcome their addiction and develop healthy coping strategies. In therapy, individuals can explore the underlying causes of their substance abuse, such as trauma, depression, or anxiety, and work to overcome these issues. Therapy can also help individuals develop social support networks, improve communication skills, and build a sense of self-worth and confidence. It can also help individuals learn coping skills, identify triggers for substance use, and develop healthier habits and behaviors.

Trauma

The history of trauma dates back to ancient times, where war and violence were prevalent. However, the recognition of trauma as a medical and psychological phenomenon only began in the early 20th century. Initially, trauma was primarily associated with physical injuries, but it later expanded to include psychological injuries as well. Trauma is defined as a response to an event or a series of events that are perceived as physically or emotionally harmful and can result in a person feeling overwhelmed, helpless, and isolated.

There are many types of trauma, including acute trauma, chronic trauma, interpersonal trauma, community trauma, and complex trauma. Acute trauma refers to a single event, such as a car accident, that causes distressing emotions and physical symptoms. Chronic trauma refers to repeated or prolonged exposure to traumatic events, such as living in a war zone or experiencing long-term domestic violence. Interpersonal trauma occurs when harm is inflicted by another person, such as sexual abuse, physical violence, or emotional abuse. Community trauma occurs when groups of people experience a traumatic event, such as natural disasters or terrorist attacks. Complex trauma refers to a combination of different types of trauma, often experienced during childhood, such as neglect, physical and sexual abuse, and domestic violence.

Traumatic events can lead to changes in the brain that affect the way a person processes and responds to stimuli. For example, someone who has experienced trauma may be more sensitive to sounds, smells, or other triggers that remind them of the traumatic event. This can lead to feelings of anxiety, fear, or even panic in certain situations. 

Trauma can also cause changes in the way the brain regulates emotions, leading to mood disorders such as depression. In addition to the impact on the brain, trauma can also affect the body in various ways. Trauma can activate the body’s “fight or flight” response, leading to physical symptoms such as increased heart rate, rapid breathing, and sweating. Over time, this can result in chronic health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and other conditions.

Trauma can also impact a person’s ability to function in daily life. For example, someone who has experienced trauma may struggle with social interactions, have difficulty maintaining relationships, or struggle with work or school performance. Trauma can also lead to a sense of isolation and disconnection from others.

Therapy is an effective way to help individuals who have experienced trauma. Trauma-focused therapy approaches include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). These approaches help individuals to process the traumatic events and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Therapy can also help individuals to identify triggers and learn ways to manage them. Additionally, support groups and peer-to-peer counseling can be helpful for those who have experienced trauma.

Here are a few examples of how therapy can be beneficial for folks:

Sarah: Sarah is a survivor of sexual abuse that occurred during her childhood. She has difficulty trusting others and experiences nightmares and flashbacks related to the abuse. Therapy can help Sarah work through her trauma, develop coping strategies, and learn to trust others again.

Michael: Michael was in a car accident and witnessed the death of his friend. He has difficulty sleeping and experiences panic attacks while driving. Therapy can help Michael process his grief, manage his anxiety, and develop coping strategies for driving.

Raj: Raj is a refugee who has experienced war trauma in his home country. He struggles with depression and feelings of hopelessness. Therapy can help Raj work through his trauma, manage his symptoms, and develop a sense of purpose and hope for his future.

Maya: Maya was physically abused by her partner and struggles with feelings of shame and low self-worth. She also experiences anxiety and has difficulty forming close relationships. Therapy can help Maya work through her trauma, develop a stronger sense of self-worth, and learn healthy communication and relationship skills.

Jack: Jack is a combat veteran who has experienced multiple traumatic events during his military service. He struggles with PTSD symptoms such as nightmares, hypervigilance, and emotional numbness. Therapy can help Jack process his trauma, manage his symptoms, and develop healthy coping strategies for his day-to-day life.