Definitions

Relationship Issues

Communication is the number one reason couples, nuclear and extended families have problems in their relationships. Often times, people in relationships do not really listen to one another when they talk. Instead, they tend to be preoccupied with reacting to what they thought the other person said or planning their response. People in relationships with effective conflict resolution habits will resolve arguments more quickly and all will feel positive about the outcome. You can learn how to communicate effectively to avoid arguments, to learn the needs of others and improve your relationship instead of letting obstacles get in the way.

Attitude differences, perceived discrepancies in the amount of attention paid to the relationship and other obstacles to the relationship can be addressed once the couple has the tools to confront challenges together. Is your relationship worth it?

Substance Abuse/Addictions

We offer experience in working with the dual-diagnosed from the most acute stages of treatment, on an inpatient psychiatric basis, all the way to the maintenance level. Our clinicians are all well versed in the AA/NA 12 Step Programming and Recovery Process.

Substance abuse counseling is a demanding form of outreach that requires patience, compassion, and a keen desire to help others who are in crisis. Good portions of this population are people who need help in many areas of their lives. Don't be unaware of the types of available assistance or how to go about finding help. In addition to assisting you to regain confidence and self-worth, we can refer you to a variety of other services that may help provide a stable platform from which you can fight addiction.

Depression

Depression is a serious illness that can be successfully treated. Depression is a medical disorder like diabetes and heart disease that affects day-to-day thought, feelings, physical health and behaviors. Its causes are many and varied including family history and genetics, other medical illnesses, drugs or alcohol, certain medicines or other psychiatric conditions. Other conditions such as extreme stress or grief may also bring on depression, but can even occur for some even when life is going well.

Anxiety

Anxiety disorders are not all treated the same and it is important to determine the specific problem before embarking on a course of treatment. Often anxiety stems from a perfectionistic way of thinking or from issues surrounding control, safety and security. Beliefs or behaviors that help to maintain the anxiety are explored. Often, anxiety is a reaction to not measuring up to the demands we place on ourselves. Sometimes we have to look at our "ideal self" and our "real self." This can be very rewarding work.

An anxiety disorder can also be developed through the expectations that are placed on us by others throughout life - even as we are growing up to become adults. Many times, these expectations can be unrealistic and result in attempting to achieve something that is in fact unachievable.

Codependence

Codependence is a pattern of detrimental, behavioral interactions within a dysfunctional relationship which is regarded as an emotional disorder, and by some as a psychological disease. In the relationship, the codependent person is controlled or manipulated by another who is affected with a pathological condition, such as drug addiction. The codependent's life gets more and more out of hand and at the end, they might become as sick as the one they are codependent on. In general, the codependent is understood to be a person who perpetuates the addiction or pathological condition of someone close to them in a way that hampers recovery. This can be done through direct control over the dependent, by making excuses for their dysfunctional behavior or relieving them of the consequences of the dependence. This is called enabling, which can have negative social and health consequences for both parties. A codependent may feel shame about, or try to change, their most private thoughts and feelings if they conflict with those of another person.

Anger Management

Anger can be a productive and healthy emotion when dealing with stress. However, anger that is out of proportion, extreme or explosive is likely to be a real problem for both you and others. Displaying anger in destructive ways is a learned behavior that is usually acquired early in life.

The overall aim of anger management treatment is to help the patient replace dysfunctional anger with functional anger. Our behavioral therapy is effective in raising your frustration-tolerance as well as assisting in changing the thought patterns that are causing the painful or negative feelings you have. You will find that learning skills that develop and support assertive, non-aggressive behavior can become a source of great pride and personal power.

Grief & Loss

Bereavement can be a lonely and frightening experience for many people. Even though portrayals of death are common in popular entertainment, many people have difficulty openly expressing their feelings about grief and sadness. Even people with a supportive and caring social network can feel alone and overwhelmed by both emotional and practical matters. Family members can be a major source of comfort and assistance, but sometimes they too may be too preoccupied with their own grief to be able to reach out. The therapists at Back on Track Psychotherapy can assist you with these emotions that prolong your mental suffering.