Vaping—inhaling a heated, aerosolized liquid through a specially designed device—has become more popular among adolescents than traditional cigarettes. The liquid used in vaping devices may contain nicotine, illicit drugs, or flavoring. The effects of vaping on young people is not yet well known. However, public and behavioral health experts are concerned that it could lead…
Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) is a type of psychotherapy with roots in cognitive-behavioral therapy, but tailored specifically for individuals who experience intense emotions. DBT involves working with a therapist for individual talk therapy, and in specific “skills groups.” Psychologist Dr. Marsha Linehan developed DBT in the 1980s for individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD). Since…
Financial issues can have a significant impact on a person’s life and psychological health. Job losses can be devastating, and low income can contribute to anxiety and depression. 38 percent of divorced couples report that financial problems were at least one cause. With all this in mind, financial therapy is a relatively recent, specialized type…
How is North Carolina addressing widespread issues such as substance abuse, mental health crises, and children’s behavioral health concerns? Here’s a roundup of some of the significant behavioral health stories emerging across the “Old North State.” Sports Betting Is Legal in North Carolina, and Health Experts Are Concerned Sports betting became legal in North Carolina…
According to the CDC, an estimated 20.4 percent of U.S. adults had chronic pain in 2016. This can lead to low quality of life, increased healthcare use and costs, missed work, and behavioral health concerns such as depression and anxiety. Medication is usually the first-line approach to treating pain. For severe or chronic pain, this…
The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) recently updated its criteria for assessing and treating substance use disorders. The ASAM Criteria is the most widely used framework for the placement, continued service, and transfer of patients with addiction. ASAM provides these standards to help promote individualized treatment, helping clinicians and care managers make objective decisions…
The use of telehealth continues to expand, long after Covid-19 restrictions drove many health services online. As this technology keeps evolving, it is crucial for providers and vendors to ensure the privacy of any client data they collect, store, use, or share. Telehealth Providers Must Secure Client Data Because telehealth is still a relatively new…
Close, intimate relationships can be complex and difficult to navigate at times. This creates a high demand for couples’ and family counselors. But what types of therapy are most helpful for couples? One acclaimed approach to couples’ therapy is known as the Gottman Method. Developed by Drs. John and Julie Gottman, this method is based…
Adopting a new EHR is a significant change for your behavioral health practice. Whether you are making the initial move from paper to digital, or switching from one EHR to another, its effect on your business operations, staff, and clients cannot be underestimated. Effective change management is crucial for a smooth and successful transition. Here’s…
Idaho is facing plenty of changes related to behavioral health, including a new naloxone distribution program, proposed changes for housing high-risk patients, and training for educators. Here’s a look at some of the major stories that could impact behavioral health providers and clients in this state. Some Individuals With Severe Mental Illness Still Go to…