Author Archives: Shervan K Shahhian, LIBERTY PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION, The Most Comprehensive Online Library Regarding Mental Health, Psychology and Parapsychology in the World.

Let’s look into some key psychological services:

Psychological services encompass a wide range of professional services designed to address mental health and emotional well-being. These services are provided by trained and licensed psychologists, therapists, counselors, and other mental health professionals. Here are some key psychological services:

1. Psychotherapy (Counseling): Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy or counseling, is a common psychological service. It involves a therapist or counselor working with an individual, couple, or group to address mental health issues, emotional challenges, and behavioral problems. Different approaches include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, and humanistic therapy.
2. Psychological Assessment: Psychologists conduct assessments to diagnose and understand mental health conditions, cognitive abilities, and personality traits. Common assessments include IQ tests, personality assessments, and neuropsychological evaluations.
3. Medication Management: Psychiatrists, who are medical doctors specializing in mental health, provide medication management services. They prescribe and monitor the effectiveness of medications used to treat conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
4. Addiction Counseling: Substance abuse and addiction counselors help individuals struggling with addiction develop coping strategies, set goals for recovery, and work through the challenges of substance abuse.
5. Child and Adolescent Services: Psychologists and therapists specialize in working with children and adolescents to address developmental issues, behavioral problems, and emotional challenges.
6. Marriage and Family Therapy: Marriage and family therapists help couples and families improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen relationships. They work with issues such as marital problems, parenting difficulties, and family dynamics.
7. Trauma Therapy: Trauma therapists assist individuals who have experienced traumatic events, such as abuse, accidents, or combat. They use specialized techniques like EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to help clients process and heal from trauma.
8. Geriatric Psychology: Psychologists who specialize in geriatric psychology work with older adults to address issues related to aging, cognitive decline, and mental health in later life.
9. Sex Therapy: Sex therapists help individuals and couples with sexual issues and dysfunctions, providing a safe and confidential environment to discuss and address concerns.
10. Forensic Psychology: Forensic psychologists apply psychological principles to legal and criminal justice settings. They may provide expert testimony in court, conduct evaluations of defendants, or work with law enforcement agencies.
11. School Psychology: School psychologists work in educational settings to support students’ mental health, learning, and social-emotional development. They may assess and provide interventions for students with learning disabilities or behavioral issues.
12. Career Counseling: Career counselors help individuals explore career options, make career decisions, and develop strategies for job searching and career advancement.
13. Community Mental Health Services: These services are provided in community settings to offer accessible mental health care to individuals who may not have easy access to traditional clinical settings.

These are just a few examples of the many psychological services available to address a wide range of mental health and well-being concerns. If you or someone you know is in need of psychological services, it’s important to seek help from a qualified and licensed mental health professional.

Shervan K Shahhian

Parapsychology: Connecting to Mainstream Psychology:
Parapsychology is a field of study that explores paranormal phenomena, such as telepathy, clairvoyance, precognition, and psychokinesis. It investigates experiences and phenomena that fall outside the scope of mainstream psychology and the natural sciences. Parapsychologists often conduct experiments and research to investigate these phenomena, although the scientific community has generally been skeptical of the field due to the lack of conventional evidence and typical methodological concerns.

Connecting parapsychology to mainstream psychology has been a challenging endeavor due to several factors:

Lack of typical Scientific Consensus: Parapsychology has struggled to gain acceptance within the broader scientific community because many of its claims lack conventional and mainstream scientific evidence. Mainstream psychology and other scientific disciplines require rigorous empirical support for their theories and findings, which parapsychology has often provided but still not accepted.

Methodological Concerns: Parapsychological experiments often face typical methodological challenges, such as issues related to control groups, experimental design, and statistical analysis. These challenges have made it difficult to produce results that can withstand mainstream scientific scrutiny.

Peer Review and Publication: Getting parapsychological research published in reputable scientific journals can be difficult due to skepticism, fundamentalist religious beliefs and the field’s controversial nature. This has limited the opportunities for parapsychologists to engage with the broader scientific community.

Lack of conventional Framework: Parapsychology has a established theoretical framework but it still cannot integrated into mainstream psychology. In contrast, mainstream psychology is grounded in established convectional theories and principles that have undergone extensive “theoretical” testing.

Cultural and Historical Factors: Parapsychology has often been associated with pseudoscience and the paranormal, which can further hinder its integration with mainstream psychology. The historical context of paranormal investigations and popular culture’s portrayal of such phenomena may influence perceptions.

While parapsychology remains a niche field on the fringes of mainstream psychology, there have been efforts to bridge the gap. Some psychologists have shown an interest in exploring anomalous experiences and phenomena, but they typically approach them from a more theoretical and non-scientifically conventional perspective. This involves conducting experiments that adhere to mainstream scientific methodologies and seeking natural explanations for any observed effects.

In summary, connecting parapsychology to mainstream psychology remains a challenge due to the lack of conventional scientific evidence, typical methodological concerns, and the biased skepticism of the broader scientific community. While some researchers continue to investigate paranormal phenomena, they must do so with a non-conventional, critical and open minded evidence-based approach rather than assuming all supernatural explanation are false.

Shervan K Shahhian

Understanding Photobiomodulation: The Clinical Applications of Low-Level Light Therapy:

Photobiomodulation (PBM), also known as low-level light therapy (LLLT), is a medical technique that uses low-level laser or light-emitting diode (LED) light to stimulate cellular processes in the body. This therapy has gained popularity in recent years for its potential therapeutic applications in various medical fields. Here’s an overview of photobiomodulation and its clinical applications:

1. Mechanism of Action:

Photobiomodulation works on the principle of using specific wavelengths of light to interact with cells and tissues.
When these specific wavelengths of light are absorbed by cellular chromophores (such as cytochrome c oxidase), they can stimulate various cellular processes.
2. Clinical Applications:

a. Pain Management:
– Photobiomodulation has been used to alleviate both acute and chronic pain conditions, including musculoskeletal pain, neuropathic pain, and inflammatory pain.
– It may reduce pain by decreasing inflammation, increasing blood flow, and promoting tissue repair.

b. Wound Healing:
– PBM has been employed to improve wound healing, particularly in cases of chronic wounds or post-surgical incisions.
– It can enhance collagen production, accelerate tissue regeneration, and reduce the risk of infection.

c. Dermatology:
– PBM is utilized for various skin conditions, such as acne, psoriasis, and eczema.
– It can promote collagen production, improve skin texture, and reduce inflammation.

d. Neurological Conditions:
– PBM shows promise in treating neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
– It may help protect neurons, improve mitochondrial function, and reduce inflammation in the brain.

e. Oral Health:
– Dentists use PBM to treat conditions like oral mucositis, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, and periodontal disease.
– It can reduce pain, inflammation, and promote tissue healing in the oral cavity.

f. Ophthalmology:
– PBM has potential applications in treating certain eye conditions, including macular degeneration and glaucoma.
– It may help protect retinal cells and improve blood flow in the eyes.

g. Sports Medicine:
– Athletes often use PBM for faster recovery from injuries, reduced muscle soreness, and improved performance.
– It can accelerate healing in sports-related injuries like sprains, strains, and bruises.

3. Considerations:

The effectiveness of PBM can vary depending on the specific condition, the parameters of light used (wavelength, power, duration), and individual patient characteristics.
Safety is a critical consideration, and PBM devices should be used by trained healthcare professionals.
It’s essential to choose the appropriate wavelength and dosage for each application, as different wavelengths have different effects on cellular processes.
In summary, photobiomodulation or low-level light therapy is a promising medical technique with a wide range of clinical applications. However, it’s crucial to approach PBM with a clear understanding of its mechanisms, appropriate protocols, and consideration of individual patient needs to maximize its therapeutic benefits. Patients interested in PBM should consult with healthcare professionals experienced in its use to determine its suitability for their specific condition.
​Shervan K Shahhian

Photobiomodulation Therapy, What is it:

Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT), also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or cold laser therapy, is a medical treatment that uses low-level lasers or light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to stimulate cellular function in the body. This therapy is based on the principle that certain wavelengths of light can be absorbed by cells and tissues to promote various biological effects.

Here’s how photobiomodulation therapy works:

Light Absorption: When specific wavelengths of light are applied to the skin or targeted tissues, the cells and mitochondria within these tissues absorb the light energy.

Cellular Effects: The absorbed light energy can trigger various cellular responses. One of the primary effects is the enhancement of mitochondrial function, which is responsible for producing adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the cell’s primary source of energy.

Benefits: PBMT is believed to have several potential therapeutic benefits, including:

• Pain Relief: It can help reduce pain and inflammation in conditions like musculoskeletal injuries, arthritis, and chronic pain.
• Tissue Healing: PBMT may accelerate the healing of wounds, injuries, and surgical incisions by promoting tissue regeneration and reducing inflammation.
• Neurological Conditions: Some research suggests that PBMT may have applications in treating neurological conditions such as traumatic brain injuries, stroke, and neuropathic pain.
• Skin Health: It can improve skin health by stimulating collagen production, potentially reducing wrinkles and promoting a more youthful appearance.
• Hair Growth: PBMT has been explored as a treatment for hair loss and may stimulate hair follicles to promote hair growth.

It’s important to note that while PBMT has shown promise in various clinical studies and has been used in some medical settings, its effectiveness for specific conditions can vary, and more research is needed to fully understand its mechanisms and optimize treatment protocols. Additionally, the exact mechanisms of action and ideal treatment parameters (such as the specific wavelengths and doses of light) can vary depending on the condition being treated.

PBMT is considered a non-invasive and generally safe therapy when administered by qualified healthcare professionals. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before undergoing PBMT to ensure it is an appropriate treatment option for your specific medical condition

Shervan K Shahhian

Precognition is an interesting Idea! But What does it mean, what is it exactly:

Precognition is indeed a concept that has captured the human imagination for centuries, often portrayed in science fiction and paranormal stories. It refers to the supposed ability to foresee or predict future events or outcomes before they actually occur, typically through extrasensory perception (ESP) or some other supernatural means.

In essence, a person who claims to have precognition is believed to have the ability to access information about events or situations that are beyond the reach of normal sensory perception or rational deduction. This could include predicting future accidents, personal experiences, or global events. Precognition is often associated with psychic abilities, clairvoyance, or premonitions.

It’s important to note that there is no scientific evidence to support the existence of precognition, and it is widely considered pseudoscience by the scientific community. Many studies attempting to validate precognition have produced inconclusive or negative results.

Instead, many phenomena that appear to be precognitive experiences can often be attributed to coincidence, selective memory, cognitive biases, or subconscious processing of information. Our brains are highly skilled at finding patterns and making connections, which can sometimes create the illusion of predicting the future.

While precognition remains a popular and intriguing concept in non-fiction and folklore, it lacks empirical support within the realm of scientific inquiry, and it’s generally regarded as a non-mainstream scientific idea.

Shervan K Shahhian

How can you test your extrasensory perception (ESP) skills: Testing extrasensory perception (ESP) skills is a challenging and controversial endeavor because there is limited scientific evidence to support the existence of ESP. However, if you are interested in exploring and testing your own perceived ESP abilities for personal or entertainment purposes, you can try some informal and fun exercises. Keep in mind that the results should not be taken as definitive proof of ESP, as they are not scientifically validated. Here are some ways to test your ESP skills:

1. Zener Cards: Zener cards are a popular tool for testing ESP. They consist of a deck of cards, each with a different symbol (e.g., star, square, circle). One person selects a card and focuses on the symbol, while another person tries to guess the symbol using their ESP. Keep a record of guesses and compare them to the actual cards to see if there is any correlation.
2. Coin Flips: Ask a friend to flip a coin and concentrate on predicting whether it will land on heads or tails. Record your predictions and compare them to the actual outcomes over multiple trials.
3. Remote Viewing: In remote viewing exercises, one person tries to describe or sketch a hidden object or location without any prior knowledge. This can be done alone or with a partner. Afterward, you can compare your descriptions to the actual target.
4. Guessing Cards or Dice Rolls: Similar to coin flips, you can try to guess the outcome of card draws (e.g., guessing the suit and rank of a playing card) or dice rolls (e.g., guessing the number rolled on a standard six-sided die).
5. Dream Journal: Keep a dream journal and pay attention to any instances where you dream about events or information that you couldn’t have known through normal means. Occasionally, these dreams may seem to predict the future.
6. Intuitive Decision-Making: In everyday life, practice making decisions based on your gut feeling or intuition. See if your intuitive decisions turn out to be correct more often than chance.
7. Online ESP Tests: There are various online websites and apps that offer ESP tests and games. These are often for entertainment purposes and should not be considered scientifically valid.

Remember that the results of these exercises are highly subjective, and factors like chance, cognitive biases, and suggestion can influence outcomes. People have different beliefs and experiences regarding ESP, so it’s essential to approach these activities with an open mind and a healthy dose of skepticism. If you are genuinely interested in exploring ESP abilities, consider participating in scientific research studies conducted by reputable institutions, as they use more controlled and rigorous methodologies.

Shervan K Shahhian

Let’s uncover the interdisciplinary synergies that exist between Parapsychology and established scientific domains such as psychology, neuroscience, and physics:

Parapsychology is a field that investigates phenomena that appear to be beyond the scope of traditional scientific understanding, such as extrasensory perception (ESP), telekinesis, and near-death experiences. While parapsychology is often met with skepticism within the scientific community due to the lack of reproducible and conclusive evidence, there are still some potential interdisciplinary connections and synergies with established scientific domains like psychology, neuroscience, and physics. These connections can provide opportunities for fruitful collaboration and exploration. Here are some ways in which these fields may intersect:

Psychology:

Consciousness and Perception: Parapsychological phenomena often involve altered states of consciousness or unusual perceptions. Collaborations with psychologists studying consciousness, altered states, and perception could provide insights into the nature of parapsychological experiences.

Belief and Suggestion: Psychologists can study the role of belief and suggestion in shaping people’s experiences of paranormal phenomena. Understanding how suggestibility and expectation affect paranormal claims can shed light on the psychology behind these experiences.

Psychological Resilience: Research into how individuals cope with unusual experiences or beliefs can help individuals who report paranormal encounters. Psychologists can explore the psychological well-being of people who claim to have had paranormal experiences.

Neuroscience:

Brain States: Investigating the brain states of individuals reporting paranormal experiences can help determine if there are any neural correlates associated with these phenomena. Advanced brain imaging techniques may provide insights into the neural mechanisms underlying such experiences.

Altered States of Consciousness: Neuroscience can contribute to the understanding of altered states of consciousness that may be associated with paranormal experiences. This includes studying the effects of meditation, hallucinogens, or other practices on the brain.

Cognitive Biases: Neuroscience can also examine how cognitive biases and perceptual errors may lead individuals to interpret mundane events as paranormal. This research can shed light on the neural processes involved in misperception.

Physics:

Quantum Physics: Some proponents of parapsychology have drawn parallels between quantum physics and the idea of interconnectedness or non-locality, which they claim supports certain paranormal phenomena. Collaborations with physicists can explore these connections and assess their validity.

Energy Fields: Some paranormal phenomena involve the concept of energy fields or auras. Physicists can investigate whether there is any scientific basis for these claims and whether they are consistent with known physical laws.

Information Transfer: If parapsychological phenomena involve the transfer of information at a distance, physicists can explore the theoretical possibilities of such phenomena within the framework of information theory and quantum entanglement.

It’s important to note that parapsychology remains a controversial field, primarily because it lacks robust empirical evidence to support its claims. Scientists from established disciplines are often cautious about engaging with parapsychology due to concerns about pseudoscience and the scientific method. However, interdisciplinary collaborations that maintain rigorous scientific standards can potentially lead to a better understanding of the boundary between the paranormal and the scientific.

Shervan K Shahhian

Lets look into: quantum mechanics, cosmology, and simulation theory and their meaning:
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​Let’s delve into the meanings of quantum mechanics, cosmology, and simulation theory:

​Quantum Mechanics:
Quantum mechanics is a fundamental theory in physics that describes the behavior of matter and energy at the smallest scales, typically on the order of atoms and subatomic particles. It was developed in the early 20th century as a replacement for classical mechanics, which was unable to explain certain phenomena at the atomic and subatomic levels. Quantum mechanics introduces a probabilistic nature to the behavior of particles, meaning that the precise state of a particle cannot be determined with absolute certainty but rather described by a probability distribution. Key concepts in quantum mechanics include wave-particle duality, superposition, entanglement, and the uncertainty principle. The theory has led to remarkable technological advancements like semiconductors, lasers, and quantum computing.

Cosmology:
Cosmology is the scientific study of the large-scale structure, origin, evolution, and eventual fate of the universe. It seeks to understand the fundamental nature of the universe on its largest scales, addressing questions about its overall structure, expansion, and composition. Cosmologists use observations from various sources, including telescopes, satellites, and computer simulations, to develop models that explain the behavior of the universe over its entire history. Key concepts in cosmology include the Big Bang theory (the prevailing explanation for the universe’s origin), dark matter, dark energy, inflation, and the formation of galaxies and other cosmic structures.

Simulation Theory:
Simulation theory is a speculative hypothesis that suggests our reality is actually a computer-generated simulation, akin to a virtual reality. According to this theory, the universe as we perceive it is not the “base reality” but rather a simulated construct created by a highly advanced civilization, extraterrestrial beings, or even future humans. This idea draws inspiration from advancements in computing and virtual reality technology and has gained attention in philosophy, science fiction, and popular culture. However, it’s important to note that simulation theory currently lacks concrete evidence and is considered more of a philosophical concept than a proven scientific theory.

In summary, quantum mechanics deals with the behavior of matter and energy at the smallest scales, cosmology explores the overall structure and evolution of the universe, and simulation theory is a speculative idea suggesting that our reality might be a simulated construct. These concepts span the realms of physics, astronomy, and philosophy, offering intriguing insights into the nature of the universe and our place within it
​Shervan K Shahhian

Have you heard of Out-of-Body Experiences, what does that mean:

An out-of-body experience is a phenomenon where an individual feels as though their consciousness or awareness is separate from their physical body. During an OBE, people often describe the sensation of floating above their own body, viewing themselves and their surroundings from a different perspective.

These experiences can vary widely in intensity and detail. Some individuals report feeling a strong sense of detachment from their physical body, while others describe vivid and realistic sensations of floating, flying, or moving through different environments. OBEs can be spontaneous occurrences, but they can also be induced through various techniques, meditation practices, or altered states of consciousness.

OBEs are often associated with near-death experiences (NDEs), during which individuals claim to have left their bodies and had various otherworldly or spiritual encounters. These experiences have been of interest to researchers, psychologists, and those exploring topics related to consciousness and the nature of reality.

It’s important to note that while OBEs are often reported, they remain a topic of debate and skepticism within the scientific community. Some explanations for OBEs include psychological factors, altered brain states, and the possibility that these experiences may be constructs of the mind rather than actual separations of consciousness from the body.

Shervan K Shahhian

Knowing the facts about Dopamine evoking activities:
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​Dopamine is a neurotransmitter, a chemical messenger in the brain, that plays a crucial role in various physiological and psychological processes. It’s often associated with pleasure, reward, motivation, and reinforcement learning. Dopamine is released in response to certain activities or experiences, and these are often referred to as “dopamine-evoking” activities. Here are some facts about such activities and their relationship to dopamine:

Reward Pathway: Dopamine is a key player in the brain’s reward pathway. When you engage in activities that your brain perceives as rewarding or pleasurable, such as eating delicious food or receiving praise, dopamine is released. This release of dopamine reinforces the behavior, making you more likely to repeat it.

Natural Rewards: Many everyday activities can trigger dopamine release, such as eating, exercising, socializing, listening to music, laughing, and accomplishing goals. These activities are considered natural rewards because they are essential for survival and well-being.

Novelty and Surprise: Dopamine release is particularly strong when something unexpected or novel happens. This is why trying new experiences, exploring new places, or solving novel problems can lead to a surge of dopamine and a feeling of excitement.

Addictive Behaviors: Dopamine is also implicated in addiction. Activities like gambling, using drugs, or excessive gaming can lead to abnormally high levels of dopamine release, creating a cycle of seeking out the behavior for the pleasurable feeling it provides.

Motivation and Goal Achievement: Dopamine is involved in motivation and goal-directed behavior. When you set a goal and work toward it, the anticipation of achieving the goal triggers dopamine release, which provides a sense of satisfaction when the goal is reached.

Social Interactions: Engaging in social interactions and forming positive social bonds can lead to dopamine release. Human beings are social creatures, and the brain rewards social connections with pleasurable feelings.

Exercise: Physical exercise has been shown to increase dopamine levels. This is why many people experience a “runner’s high” or a sense of euphoria after engaging in intense physical activity.

Creativity: Engaging in creative activities, whether it’s art, music, writing, or problem-solving, can stimulate dopamine release. The process of coming up with new ideas and expressing oneself creatively is rewarding to the brain.

Technology and Social Media: Digital technologies, social media, and video games can also trigger dopamine release. The constant notifications, likes, and rewards in these platforms can create a cycle of seeking out online interactions.

Balance is Key: While dopamine-evoking activities can be beneficial and enjoyable, excessive engagement in certain activities, especially those that artificially stimulate dopamine release (such as excessive gaming or substance abuse), can lead to imbalances in the brain’s reward system and have negative consequences on mental health.

It’s important to note that dopamine is just one of many neurotransmitters involved in brain function, and its role is complex and multifaceted. While dopamine plays a significant role in pleasure and reward, it’s not the sole determinant of human behavior and emotions.
​Shervan K Shahhian