The Patient Health Questionniare (PHQ-9) is a brief test/assessment which consists of nine items. Each item is scored 0 to 3, providing a 0 to 27 severity score. The PHQ-9 can be used as both a diagnostic module as well as a depression severity score.
[Read more…] about Measuring Depression with PHQ-9Important Books for Private Practice Therapists
Starting up a private practice as a counselor or therapist can be overwhelming, intimidating, and often a huge financial risk. Taking steps to mitigate the dangers involved demands approaching things from a business perspective; the dilemma is that this is the anthesis of what we consider a genuine therapist should be. Finding a way to blend the two – business skills with the therapist mindset and ethics – is the key.
[Read more…] about Important Books for Private Practice TherapistsHow to Change Your Mindset During COVID-19
My grandparents grew up during the Great Depression. It changed the way many people coped with life. Which reminds me of this current pandemic, how it’s affecting us, and my grandparent’s vacuum cleaner.
[Read more…] about How to Change Your Mindset During COVID-19Taking Control During a Crisis
Our priorities tend to shift during an unexpected crisis, whether we want to our not. And yet the problems of our life can’t remain on hold forever. How do we handle this added anxiety and navigate the issues we continue to face?
[Read more…] about Taking Control During a CrisisHow Do I Know What I’m Feeling?
Feelings and emotions are central to being human. Sometimes we enjoy them and at other times we are afraid of them in ourselves and others. Understanding emotions allows us to succeed in the areas that matter most to us: Home life, career, and friendships. Yet this doesn’t work the same for those of us that are smarter or more intelligent. Oddly enough, this has nothing to do with luck or the right “connections”.
[Read more…] about How Do I Know What I’m Feeling?Why Don’t I Feel Normal Unless I am Crying or Upset?
What is a normal way to respond to problems? While this varies from person to person, sometimes our response itself creates and contributes to more of the chaos in our lives. Identifying a few key points may help smooth things along.
[Read more…] about Why Don’t I Feel Normal Unless I am Crying or Upset?