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

Re-evaluation Counseling (RC), also known as Co-Counseling, is an approach to personal growth and emotional healing developed by Harvey Jackins in the 1950s. It is a form of peer counseling that emphasizes mutual support and the release of emotional distress.

The core principle of Re-evaluation Counseling is that every person has innate, natural abilities to heal and recover from emotional and psychological wounds. The method involves two individuals taking turns as counselor and client, with the goal of creating a safe and non-judgmental space for emotional expression.

During an RC session, the counselor provides active listening and support while the client shares their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. The process encourages the release of suppressed emotions, such as fear, anger, sadness, and trauma, through talking, crying, shaking, laughing, or other forms of emotional discharge. The counselor helps the client by offering empathy, reassurance, and encouragement.

The underlying theory behind Re-evaluation Counseling is that past traumatic experiences and negative patterns of thinking can interfere with a person’s ability to function optimally in the present. By providing a supportive environment and allowing emotional discharge, RC aims to help individuals re-evaluate and reframe their past experiences, facilitating emotional healing and personal growth.

Re-evaluation Counseling also incorporates various techniques and tools to address specific issues. These can include attention to physical sensations, visualization, affirmations, and exploring different perspectives on a given situation.

RC is often practiced in peer-led support groups and workshops, where participants take turns counseling each other. The ultimate goal is to develop emotional resilience, gain insight into one’s own patterns and beliefs, and build stronger connections with others.

It is important to note that while Re-evaluation Counseling can be a helpful personal growth tool, it is not a substitute for professional therapy or medical treatment. In cases of severe mental health concerns or trauma, it is recommended to seek guidance from qualified mental health professionals.

Shervan K Shahhian

The dangers of Resentment?

Resentment is an intense feeling of bitterness, anger, and indignation towards someone or something, typically arising from a perceived injustice, mistreatment, or unfairness. While it is a natural human emotion and can be a response to real or perceived wrongs, resentment can have several dangers and negative effects on both individuals and relationships. Here are some of the dangers associated with resentment:

Emotional and Mental Health Issues: Holding onto resentment can lead to significant emotional and mental health problems. It often involves harboring negative thoughts and feelings, which can contribute to increased stress, anxiety, and even depression. Resentment can consume a person’s thoughts and create a constant state of negativity, making it challenging to find happiness and peace of mind.

Poisoning Relationships: Resentment can be toxic to relationships. When someone holds onto resentment, it can lead to a breakdown in communication, trust, and intimacy. It often festers and grows, causing rifts between individuals and creating a hostile environment. Unresolved resentment can erode the foundation of a relationship and eventually lead to its demise.

Self-Destruction: Resentment is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to suffer. Holding onto resentment can harm the person carrying it more than anyone else. It keeps individuals stuck in the past and prevents personal growth and healing. It can lead to self-destructive behaviors, such as isolation, self-sabotage, or engaging in harmful coping mechanisms like substance abuse.

Physical Health Consequences: Resentment can also impact physical health. Research has shown that chronic resentment and unresolved anger are associated with increased risks of high blood pressure, cardiovascular problems, weakened immune system, and other stress-related conditions. The mind-body connection is powerful, and negative emotions like resentment can take a toll on overall well-being.

Missed Opportunities for Resolution: Holding onto resentment often prevents individuals from seeking resolution or finding closure. It can hinder forgiveness, which is crucial for personal healing and moving forward. By staying focused on past grievances, individuals may miss opportunities for personal growth, improved relationships, and finding peace within themselves.

Negativity Bias: Resentment can create a negativity bias, where a person tends to focus more on negative experiences and interpret neutral or positive events in a negative light. This bias can distort perceptions, hinder problem-solving abilities, and limit one’s overall outlook on life.

To address and overcome resentment, it is important to acknowledge and understand the underlying causes, express emotions in a healthy way, practice empathy and forgiveness, and seek support if needed. Letting go of resentment can lead to emotional freedom, improved relationships, and enhanced well-being.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Psychiatric and mental health nursing?

Psychiatric and mental health nursing is a specialized field of nursing that focuses on the care and treatment of individuals with mental health disorders and psychiatric illnesses. Psychiatric nurses work in various settings, including hospitals, psychiatric hospitals, clinics, community health centers, and residential treatment facilities.

The primary goal of psychiatric and mental health nursing is to provide comprehensive and holistic care to individuals experiencing mental health issues. Psychiatric nurses are trained to assess, diagnose, plan, implement, and evaluate nursing care for patients with mental health conditions. They work collaboratively with other healthcare professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and occupational therapists, to develop and implement individualized treatment plans.

Some of the key responsibilities of psychiatric and mental health nurses include:

Assessment: Conducting thorough assessments of patients’ mental health status, including their emotional, psychological, and social well-being.

Medication Administration: Administering and monitoring psychiatric medications as prescribed by the healthcare team, while monitoring for any side effects or adverse reactions.

Therapeutic Interventions: Implementing therapeutic interventions, such as counseling, psychoeducation, and behavior modification techniques, to help patients manage their symptoms and develop coping strategies.

Crisis Intervention: Providing immediate support and intervention during mental health crises or emergencies to ensure the safety and well-being of the patient.

Patient Education: Educating patients and their families about mental health conditions, treatment options, medication management, and self-care techniques.

Collaborative Care: Collaborating with other healthcare professionals to develop and implement a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses the patient’s physical, emotional, and social needs.

Advocacy: Advocating for the rights and needs of individuals with mental health disorders, promoting awareness, reducing stigma, and facilitating access to appropriate resources and support services.

Psychiatric and mental health nursing requires specialized knowledge and skills to provide compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals with diverse mental health needs. Psychiatric nurses play a vital role in supporting patients on their journey towards recovery, promoting mental health, and improving the overall quality of life for individuals with mental health conditions.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is a Psychiatrist?

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. They are trained in both medicine and psychology, allowing them to understand the complex interactions between physical and mental health.

Psychiatrists are licensed physicians who have completed medical school and obtained a medical degree (M.D. or D.O.). After medical school, they undergo specialized training in psychiatry during a residency program, which typically lasts four years. During their residency, psychiatrists gain practical experience in various psychiatric settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and research institutions.

As medical doctors, psychiatrists are qualified to assess the overall physical and mental well-being of individuals. They can conduct thorough evaluations to diagnose mental illnesses, including anxiety disorders, mood disorders (such as depression and bipolar disorder), schizophrenia, substance use disorders, and more. Psychiatrists are trained to differentiate between psychological conditions and medical conditions that may have psychiatric symptoms.

Once a diagnosis is made, psychiatrists develop and implement treatment plans for their patients. They can prescribe medications, such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, or mood stabilizers, to help manage symptoms. Additionally, psychiatrists may provide psychotherapy or recommend other non-pharmacological interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), or psychosocial interventions.

Psychiatrists often collaborate with other healthcare professionals, including psychologists, social workers, and counselors, to provide comprehensive care to individuals with mental health concerns. They may also work in research, academia, or administration, contributing to advancements in the field of psychiatry and mental health.

It’s important to note that while psychiatrists are mental health professionals, not all mental health professionals are psychiatrists. Other professionals in the field include psychologists, psychiatric nurses, licensed clinical social workers, and licensed professional counselors, each with their own training and scope of practice.

Shervan K Shahhian

The professional practice of behavior analysis involves the application of the principles and techniques of behavior analysis to assess, understand, and modify human behavior. Behavior analysis is a scientific discipline that focuses on the study of behavior and the environmental factors that influence it. It seeks to identify the functional relationships between behavior and its antecedents (what happens before behavior occurs) and consequences (what happens after behavior occurs).

Behavior analysts work in various settings, including schools, clinics, hospitals, businesses, and homes, to address a wide range of behavioral challenges and improve individuals’ quality of life. They use evidence-based interventions derived from the principles of behavior analysis to bring about meaningful behavior change.

The practice of behavior analysis typically involves the following key components:

Assessment: Behavior analysts conduct comprehensive assessments to identify the factors contributing to a person’s behavior. This may involve gathering information through interviews, direct observation, and data collection.

Behavior Intervention Planning: Based on the assessment results, behavior analysts develop individualized behavior intervention plans. These plans outline specific strategies and techniques to modify behavior and achieve desired outcomes.

Implementation: Behavior analysts work directly with individuals to implement the behavior intervention plans. They provide instruction, support, and guidance to clients and caregivers to ensure effective implementation of the recommended strategies.

Data Collection and Analysis: Behavior analysts collect and analyze data to measure progress and make data-driven decisions. This helps in determining the effectiveness of interventions and making any necessary adjustments to the behavior intervention plans.

Collaboration: Behavior analysts collaborate with other professionals, such as teachers, therapists, and parents, to ensure a coordinated approach to behavior change. They may provide training and consultation to these stakeholders to promote consistency and generalization of skills across different settings.

Ethical Practice: Behavior analysts adhere to a code of ethics that guides their professional conduct. They prioritize the well-being and rights of the individuals they work with and maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries.

Behavior analysis is widely used to address various behavioral challenges, including those related to autism spectrum disorder, developmental disabilities, mental health disorders, organizational behavior management, education, and sports performance, among others.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Pre-conception counseling?

Pre-conception counseling, also known as pre-conception care or pre-conceptual counseling, refers to a medical consultation that takes place before a person or couple plans to conceive a child. The purpose of pre-conception counseling is to provide guidance, education, and support to individuals or couples who are considering pregnancy in order to optimize their health and increase the chances of a healthy pregnancy and baby.

During pre-conception counseling, healthcare professionals, such as obstetricians, gynecologists, or family doctors, discuss various aspects of reproductive health and pregnancy planning with the individuals involved. The specific topics covered may vary depending on factors such as the individual’s medical history, age, lifestyle, and any pre-existing medical conditions. However, some common areas addressed in pre-conception counseling include:

General health assessment: The healthcare provider evaluates the individual’s overall health and identifies any existing medical conditions that could potentially affect pregnancy. This may involve reviewing medical history, conducting physical examinations, and ordering relevant tests or screenings.

Lifestyle factors: Discussions are held regarding lifestyle choices that can impact fertility and pregnancy outcomes. This includes recommendations on maintaining a healthy weight, proper nutrition, exercise, smoking cessation, alcohol and drug use, and managing chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension.

Medications and vaccinations: The healthcare provider reviews the individual’s current medications to determine if any adjustments or changes are necessary before attempting pregnancy. Additionally, they may recommend certain vaccinations to protect against infectious diseases that can pose a risk during pregnancy.

Genetic counseling: In some cases, genetic counseling may be recommended, particularly if there is a family history of genetic disorders or if the individuals are carriers of specific genetic conditions. Genetic counseling helps individuals understand their risks and options for genetic testing or screening.

Reproductive health: The healthcare provider may discuss fertility awareness, menstrual cycle tracking, and timing of intercourse to maximize the chances of conception. They may also address any concerns related to reproductive health, such as irregular periods or sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Prenatal supplements: Recommendations are given regarding the use of prenatal vitamins or supplements containing essential nutrients like folic acid, iron, and calcium, which are important for fetal development.

By addressing these aspects before conception, pre-conception counseling aims to identify and manage any potential risks or health issues that could impact pregnancy outcomes. It provides individuals or couples with the knowledge and tools necessary to make informed decisions and take appropriate steps to optimize their health and fertility before embarking on the journey of pregnancy.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Postvention intervention?

Postvention intervention refers to the activities and strategies implemented after a suicide or suicide attempt has occurred. It aims to support and assist individuals who have been affected by the suicide of a loved one or have experienced suicidal ideation or attempted suicide themselves. Postvention interventions are designed to reduce the immediate and long-term negative consequences of suicide and promote healing, recovery, and prevention.

The primary goals of postvention intervention include:

Crisis Response: Immediate response and support for individuals who have been directly impacted by a suicide, such as family members, friends, classmates, or colleagues. This may involve crisis counseling, providing information about available resources, and facilitating access to mental health services.

Grief Support: Offering assistance and resources to help individuals cope with the grieving process after a suicide loss. This may involve counseling, support groups, or specialized programs designed for survivors of suicide.

Psychoeducation: Providing information and education to individuals and communities about suicide, risk factors, warning signs, and available resources for prevention and support. This helps to reduce stigma, increase awareness, and promote early intervention.

Suicide Prevention: Focusing on the prevention of future suicides by identifying and supporting individuals who may be at risk. This may include training programs for professionals, gatekeeper training for community members, and enhancing mental health services and support networks.

Postvention interventions are essential in addressing the immediate aftermath of a suicide and preventing contagion effects or a cluster of suicides within a community. By providing support, resources, and education, these interventions contribute to reducing the potential impact of suicide on individuals, families, and communities, while also promoting mental health and suicide prevention.

Shervan K Shahhian

Who are Mental health care navigators?

Mental health care navigators, also known as mental health care coordinators or mental health advocates, are professionals who help individuals access and navigate mental health care services. They provide support and guidance to individuals seeking mental health treatment, particularly those facing challenges in understanding the mental health system or finding appropriate resources.

The role of mental health care navigators can vary depending on the specific context and organization they work with. However, their primary goal is to assist individuals in understanding their mental health care options, connecting them with relevant services, and ensuring they receive the appropriate support.

Here are some key responsibilities of mental health care navigators:

Assessment: Navigators assess the individual’s mental health needs, identify any barriers to care, and determine the most suitable resources and services.

Education and Information: They provide information about mental health conditions, available treatments, and support services to help individuals make informed decisions.

Resource Referral: Navigators connect individuals with appropriate mental health care providers, therapists, counselors, support groups, and community organizations that can address their specific needs.

Care Coordination: They facilitate communication and collaboration among different mental health professionals and service providers involved in an individual’s care, ensuring continuity and integration of services.

Advocacy: Navigators advocate for individuals’ rights and needs within the mental health care system, helping them navigate any administrative or bureaucratic challenges.

Support and Empowerment: They offer emotional support, encouragement, and guidance to individuals throughout their mental health care journey, empowering them to actively participate in their own care.

Crisis Intervention: Navigators may assist individuals during mental health crises by connecting them with emergency services or providing immediate support until professional help arrives.

Mental health care navigators often work in collaboration with healthcare providers, social workers, psychologists, and other professionals to enhance the overall mental health care experience and outcomes for individuals seeking help.

Shervan K Shahhian

Who are Licensed professional counselors?

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) are mental health professionals who provide counseling and therapy services to individuals, couples, families, and groups. They are trained to address a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and mental health issues. LPCs work in various settings, including private practice, community mental health centers, hospitals, schools, and universities.

To become an LPC, individuals typically need to obtain a master’s degree in counseling or a related field and complete a certain number of supervised clinical hours. They must also pass a state licensure examination and fulfill any additional requirements mandated by their specific state or jurisdiction.

LPCs use various therapeutic techniques and interventions to help clients manage and overcome challenges such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief and loss, stress, trauma, and substance abuse. They provide a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors, and they assist in developing coping strategies, improving communication skills, and fostering personal growth.

LPCs adhere to ethical guidelines and standards of professional practice set by counseling associations and licensing boards. They often engage in ongoing professional development activities to stay updated with the latest research and therapeutic approaches in the field.

Shervan K Shahhian

Exit counseling and deprogramming are two related but distinct processes often employed in situations involving individuals who are involved in controversial or potentially harmful groups or ideologies.

Exit counseling, also known as intervention, is a voluntary process aimed at assisting individuals who are involved in high-demand groups or cults to reconsider their involvement and make an informed decision about leaving. It typically involves a trained professional or a team of experts who work with the individual, providing information, emotional support, and alternative perspectives. The goal of exit counseling is to help individuals regain their autonomy and critical thinking abilities, empowering them to make independent choices regarding their involvement in the group.

Deprogramming, on the other hand, refers to a more coercive and controversial approach that was used in the past, particularly in the 1970s and 1980s. Deprogramming involved forcibly removing individuals from cults or groups deemed harmful and subjecting them to intensive, often confrontational, interventions aimed at breaking their psychological attachment to the group. This process was highly controversial and often met with ethical concerns due to the use of coercion and potential violation of personal freedoms.

It’s important to note that deprogramming is generally considered outdated and unethical, and it is no longer widely practiced. Exit counseling, on the other hand, continues to be used as a voluntary and supportive approach to help individuals reconsider their involvement in harmful groups.

Shervan K Shahhian