Mental healthcare is still a profession shrouded in mystery. As a psychologist, two questions I get asked a lot are: “Don’t you just listen to people all day?” and “Isn’t therapy only for people who don’t have friends?” For the record: no and no. I do a lot more than listen and I’m not a paid friend (which sounds creepy). But I get it. People don’t understand how counseling works. I don’t blame them because, quite frankly, it’s a complicated process. There’s no one right way to counsel which means that there are many disagreements about the best practices. However, …
My Boyfriend Has a Drinking Problem
Question: I’ve been in a relationship with a wonderful man for several years now. He treats me well and has great qualities. The only problem is that he has depression and drinks too much. Every night he drinks at least a six-pack of beer, sometimes more. He takes medication for his depression. Even though he knows that the medication isn’t supposed to be mixed with alcohol, he still drinks. He doesn’t have any hobbies and all his friends are partiers. I’ve tried to help by encouraging him to find a hobby, make better friends (ones who don’t drink), and pleading …
Moving Forward in Relationships
Figuring out how to meet the needs of both partners can be tricky, especially when something as serious as marriage is involved. That is why communication and setting a boundary is crucial for the process of moving forward in relationships.
Helping Kids Help Themselves
Kids with a tough home life often wonder how they can help themselves. They can see a counselor, read workbooks or even talk with friends.
Respect Psychology and We All Win
For all the value that psychology contributes, the field doesn’t get the respect it deserves. Psychology is a science — a behavioral science — and deserves to be acknowledged as such.