How long will I need to stay on mediation for depression?
It is generally recommend that patients remain on antidepressants for six months, as there is a high incidence of recurrence of symptoms when antidepressants are discontinued in the first year of treatment.

Is ADHD a medical disorder and does it require treatment with medication?
ADHD is a disorder caused by chemical imbalances in the brain.  It can impair a child's ability to learn in the classroom.  Medication is often necessary and is safely used in the treatment of this disorder; however therapy should be used in conjunction with medication.

What is EMDR?
EMDR is a new psychotherapy used to treat troubling symptoms such as anxiety, guilt, anger, depression, panic, sleep disturbance and flashbacks, that are the result of traumatic experiences.  Traditional therapies have met with limited success in treating victims of trauma.  Not only has EMDR therapy been proven effective in reducing the chronic symptoms which follow trauma, the therapy benefits appear to be permanent.  To date, it has helped an estimated half million people of all ages receive relief from many different kinds of psychological distress.  EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing.  The beneficial effects of EMDR are facilitated by an alternating stimulation of the right and left hemispheres of the brain.  Eye movement accomplishes this stimulation as do bilateral alternating taps or tones.  EMDR also has the ability to shorten the time needed for therapy.

What is hypnosis used for?
Hypnosis is used mainly for smoking and weight control.  Other uses are for fears, sleep problems, sexual problems, tension, anxiety, memory, and concentration. 

Can I be hypnotized?
Yes, unless you suffer from brain damage, schizophrenia, mental retardation or you are an infant.

Will I do something against my ethical code while being hypnotized?
Absolutely not.  No one would do anything under hypnosis that they wouldn't do otherwise.  You are always in control.

Will I have to do silly or embarrassing things while being hypnotized?
No.  Comedy clubs often feature hypnotists for the purpose of humor.  I use hypnosis as a professional psychologist and am working to help you achieve your personal goals.

What is alcoholism/substance addiction?
Addiction is a disease that includes the following four symptoms:

Craving - A strong need, or urge, to drink or use.

Loss of control - Not being able to stop drinking/using.

Physical dependence - Withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea, sweating, shakiness, and anxiety after stopping drinking/using.

Tolerance - The need for greater amounts of alcohol/drugs to get “high.”

Can alcoholism/substance abuse be treated?
Yes, alcoholism/substance abuse can be treated.  Most alcoholics/addicts need help to recover from their disease.  With support and treatment, many people are able to stop drinking/using and rebuild their lives.

Does alcoholism/substance abuse treatment work?
Alcoholism/substance abuse treatment works for many people.  But just like any chronic disease, there are varying levels of success when it comes to treatment.

Does it do me any good to see a therapist if my spouse/child won't stop drinking/using or says that their drinking/using is only a problem for me?
Yes.  Therapy is a good way to sort out your feelings and discover the truth.  Many people with an addiction find it difficult to look at their addiction as a problem.  It is also important to remember that you are not alone.  Support groups offered in most communities include Al-Anon, Alateen, Nar-anon etc.  These groups help family members understand that they are not responsible for an alcoholic's drinking or an addict's using and that they need to take steps to take care of themselves, regardless of whether the addicted family member chooses to get help.

Can I become addicted to things other than alcohol or drugs?
Yes, behaviors such as work, sex, exercise, gambling and Internet use can be a part of a healthy lifestyle.  However, they can be addictions when the following symptoms occur:

Craving - A strong need or urge for the behavior

Loss of control - Not being able to stop the behavior

Dependence - Withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea, sweating, shakiness, and anxiety about having to stop the behavior.

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