MedWorm provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest medical blog items that have been tagged with 'boundaries'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 01:55:08 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5008309&cid=t_112250_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F07%2F06%2Fwhen-does-flirting-become-cheating-9-red-flags%2F According to psychologist Michael Brickey, author of Defying Aging and many other relationship experts, playful bantering or gentle flirting with someone outside of your marriage is harmless if proper boundaries remain intact. Those boundaries differ with each relationship, of course. What would be considered a violation in one marriage might be perfectly acceptable for another couple. Difference of opinions even occur within a marriage. For example, I know a woman who recently asked her husband to either give her his Facebook password or close out his account after she found an email that he had sent to a former classmate that she found to be rather suggestive. He disagreed and thought it was perfectly appropriate. Social media sites and online interaction are pushing this issue to dinner... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5008309 Wed, 06 Jul 2011 10:33:01 +0100 5008309 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4953001&cid=t_112250_109_f&fid=34958&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.counsellingresource.com%2F%7Er%2Fpsychology-philosophy%2F%7E3%2FBwIz3KAo4Js%2F It's easy to think of jobs in terms of dollars and cents, but here are eight more factors or "currencies" that make the difference between feeling blessed and feeling cheated on the job.Tags: boundaries, work-life (Source: Psychology, Philosophy and Real Life) Psychology, Philosophy and Real Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4953001 Tue, 21 Jun 2011 14:04:15 +0100 4953001 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4934161&cid=t_112250_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fthe-boundaries-between-doctor-and-patient%2F2011.06.16 This post from Kelly Young on Howard Luks’ blog asks when patients cross the line with respect to their own advocacy.  It’s worth a peek. The question of boundaries between doctor and patient is interesting.  All of my patients are empowered in some way.  The extent and level of that empowerment is personal.  On our own there are few lines and little with respect to boundaries.  We have effectively unlimited access to information and resources.  And how far we go to look after ourselves and our kids has few limits. But when we enter into a relationship with a provider, we’re no longer alone.  It’s unreasonable for a provider to tell a patient (more…) *This blog post was originally published at 33 Charts* (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4934161 Thu, 16 Jun 2011 12:00:58 +0100 4934161 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4902490&cid=t_112250_109_f&fid=34958&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.counsellingresource.com%2F%7Er%2Fpsychology-philosophy%2F%7E3%2F0NOGtFoieeY%2F If there ever was a perennial parental complaint, I'd have to say it is "why won't my child listen to me?" When you know some of the most common reasons why your little one is ignoring or defying you, you have a better chance of being heard and getting what you want.Tags: anger, boundaries, communication, parenting and children, relationships (Source: Psychology, Philosophy and Real Life) Psychology, Philosophy and Real Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4902490 Mon, 06 Jun 2011 13:18:36 +0100 4902490 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4626831&cid=t_112250_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fmotherly-musings-and-childhood-boundary-issues%2F2011.03.23 “Anyone who will barge into the room while you are on the commode is the boss of you. And when you explain to them that you’re on the commode and that they should leave but they don’t? That’s a high-level boss.” - Tina Fey from the new InStyle Magazine. Sister Fey speaks the truth here. Children have no privacy boundaries. There is also something, perhaps related to the way going to bathroom disturbs the Earth’s magnetic fields, that makes a child need something urgently the second trou has been dropped. That all said, the fact that a child has no understanding of his parent’s privacy does not mean that said child does not demand privacy for himself. Little Isis is going through a period where he is not to be seen doing the deed. Even the thought ... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4626831 Wed, 23 Mar 2011 17:00:58 +0100 4626831 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4570587&cid=t_112250_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F03%2F10%2Ffind-psych-central-psychologists-at-sxsw-this-weekend%2F The annual trek to Austin Texas by geeks from around the country begins tomorrow. I started attending SXSW Interactive (read: South by Southwest) in 1999 and did my first presentation there a year later (yes, 11 years ago!). Despite the Interactive portion being mainly about web development and technology, SXSW has always recognized the importance that technology plays in our health and mental health. And it’s this recognition and interesting discussions that keep people like me coming back year after year. Sure, SXSW is about the many parties, the great keynotes, and wandering the vast air-conditioned desert expanses that are the Austin Convention Center. But it’s mostly about the great, creative people you meet at SXSW, and connecting with them to think of new ways you can de... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4570587 Thu, 10 Mar 2011 11:46:24 +0100 4570587 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4331065&cid=t_112250_109_f&fid=34958&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.counsellingresource.com%2F%7Er%2Fpsychology-philosophy%2F%7E3%2F5Xxxq2-FRMM%2F What does it mean to be 'natural' or 'wild'? Are these qualities, on an archetypal level, associated with women? Can we recognise the archetypes of wild women, incarnating freedom and desire, or earth mothers, here to nurture, who are ultimately very powerful, yet possibly not very bright?Tags: boundaries, control, history, marketing, men, relationships, sexuality, society, women (Source: Psychology, Philosophy and Real Life) Psychology, Philosophy and Real Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4331065 Tue, 11 Jan 2011 14:54:15 +0100 4331065 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4265858&cid=t_112250_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F12%2F16%2Fwhat-are-doctors-doing-on-facebook%2F In a survey of 405 postgraduate trainee doctors (residents and fellows) from France, researchers examined how doctors are using Facebook — not only for themselves, but also in their interactions with patients. Facebook, if you’ve been sleeping for the past year and didn’t notice TIME magazine just named Mark Zuckerberg — Facebook’s CEO and founder — Person of the Year, is the world’s largest social networking site. It allows you to connect with other acquaintances (they use the term “friends,” but this is a ridiculous use of the word since most people’s Facebook connections are not traditional friends) easily, online. Perhaps too easily. The relationship between doctor and patient (or therapist and client) isn’t one based up... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4265858 Thu, 16 Dec 2010 16:49:39 +0100 4265858 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4077247&cid=t_112250_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fprofessional-boundaries-is-it-okay-for-a-friend-to-treat-a-friend%2F2010.10.17 I just finished reading Dr. Gary Small’s book, The Naked Lady Who Stood On Her Head. In the final chapter of the book, Dr. Small talks about his mentor, friend, and father figure who’s mentioned throughout the book. The mentor approaches him on the golf course, where they meet to talk, and says he needs psychotherapy and Small is the man to do it. The author is surprised, hesitant, and a bit uncomfortable with the demand (it comes as more than a request.) His wife likens it to the need for a plumber or a dentist, and Dr. Small takes on the task. The mentor calls all the shots: Where the meetings will be, what pastry they will eat, the form of his payment. The author initially misses the diagnosis and uses this as an example of how one can be blinded. So is it okay for a friend... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4077247 Sun, 17 Oct 2010 18:00:00 +0100 4077247 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4031509&cid=t_112250_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2F4-signs-of-recovery%2F How do I know when I am in recovery? Here are four signs: I can address problems as they happen, without using drugs or alcohol, and without getting stressed out. I have at least one person I can be completely honest with. I have personal boundaries and know which issues are mine and which ones belong to other people. I take the time to restore my energy—spiritual, physical and emotional— when I am tired. YOU CAN DO THIS. - See also Faith It Till You Make It – A Recovery Book The Addictive Personality Days of Healing, Days of Joy A Recovery Book - Share, print or e-mail this articlePredators in 12 Step FellowshipsA Parent was a Compulsive Gambler12 Step Treatment Reduces Healthcare Demand (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4031509 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 15:01:00 +0100 4031509 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3976545&cid=t_112250_111_f&fid=34834&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMentalNurse%2F%7E3%2FxPz4RkXMRNc%2F [Guest post by Torah] As if therapy and transference isn’t painful enough, there is a whole other level of transference called, ‘erotic transference’ (mmmm sounds so seedy), which I have the joy of trying to navigate my way through.  After a quick search on the internet, it became obvious to me that this is an area of therapy that therapist are still quite scared of.  I guess I can understand why; sex, boundaries, law, ethics, don’t really make for a comfortable work day.  So I thought I would put my story out there and maybe take a small piece of fear away from this area. Quick history on me: got sick about 3 years ago, was cutting myself and therfore placed in DBT.  Have been in psychotherapy since then.  My pdoc doesn’t believe in labels but on hospita... Mental Nurse blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3976545 Thu, 16 Sep 2010 20:27:43 +0100 3976545 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3911873&cid=t_112250_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fsigns-of-unhealthy-boundaries%2F Personal psychological, sexual and physical boundaries protect us from exploitation, abuse and dysfunctional relationships. However, boundaries can be dismantled, distorted or abandoned. The motives and causes for having unhealthy boundaries are many and varied. These may include alcoholism, addiction or compulsive gambling; and, close association with sufferers of these conditions. Unhealthy boundaries have many signs and symptoms. Some of these are; Telling all Talking at an intimate level at the first meeting Falling in love with a new acquaintance Falling in love with anyone who reaches out Being overwhelmed by a person – preoccupied Acting on the first sexual impulse Being sexual for your partner, not yourself Going against personal values or rights to please others No... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3911873 Fri, 27 Aug 2010 16:26:00 +0100 3911873 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3757833&cid=t_112250_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Frelationships-how-to-survive-when-your-spouse-is-your-co-worker%2F photo: Thinkstock The recession forced many married couples out of their previous jobs and into think-mode, with many of them abandoning solo ventures and going into business together. In a recent Wall Street Journal article, author Sue Shellenbarger talked to several wife-husband teams to determine what works and what doesn’t when your spouse is also your co-worker. Draw firm boundaries. Look at your spouse as your business partner during the work week, and your spouse after work. Know your roles. Clearly define the roles each of you take in the business. Otherwise, your management styles will clash. Divide and conquer. If you’re working long hours, there’s no reason for both of you to work 15-hour days. Split up the time. Recognize your strengths and weaknesses. If you ... Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3757833 Thu, 15 Jul 2010 21:04:12 +0100 3757833 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3737080&cid=t_112250_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F07%2F08%2Fdating-some-self-esteem-savers%2F I have been in the single arena, and it is an arena, for nearly a year. In this time frame I have learned, lost, cried and felt elation, all at varying levels. How does a woman know when the guy actually likes her? How does a woman know what to say or do and not seem crazy? The answers are there are no answers. Sometimes one person may feel a connection when the other does not. Sometimes we come across potential partners who are super-sexy, successful and have that “catch me if you can” attitude. They’re not worth running after if they won’t run right after you too. Dating is hard. But I think the key to positive dating is to attempt to remain objective as possible. I know this is nearly impossible for some and I am guilty of it. Many of us have hopes and ideas of t... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3737080 Thu, 08 Jul 2010 10:30:29 +0100 3737080 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3648768&cid=t_112250_137_f&fid=39091&url=http%3A%2F%2Falzheimmers.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F06%2Fpending-book-tour-and-other-musings.html Book tour in Florida next week. I will be  doing a reading and signing and talking about the book and all about AD next week. It's weird but I was trying to figure out which sample pages of the book I would read for the book signing. I read a part about some mean laughing on-lookers at my mother's inappropriate social behavior, when I took her to a restaurant when I was seventeen, that one seemed okay. I guess it covers some of those universal concepts of Alzheimer's family members, the ignorance of the fellow human being manifesting as mean-spiritedness- but then I read one about a patient I had, whose wife had AD. It was quite a few years ago, I actually got choked up reading it. I have had thousands of scenarios like that. You don't get to get choked up as a doctor-ever, ... Caregiver Survival: I Hate Alzheimers blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3648768 Thu, 10 Jun 2010 05:10:00 +0100 3648768 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3590502&cid=t_112250_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FZx9yGJ54r4s%2F Self-care is about setting boundaries, letting go "Some of us have so many voices in our heads, we could hold group therapy by ourselves," Rokelle Lerner. This internal chorus is often composed of voices from our family of origin, voices of critical teachers or bosses, voices from past relationships or current situations. Often these voices are drowned out by our own voice-nagging, reprimanding, berating, but rarely praising us. In times of stress or chaos, the voices grow louder and it’s easy to go numb, We become estranged from our purpose and our passion. Our response is fear, and our reaction is an attempt at control. We frequently become children again during times of stress reverting to old and unhealthy patterns that were present in dysfunctional families or relationship... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3590502 Sat, 22 May 2010 19:05:23 +0100 3590502 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3502988&cid=t_112250_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2Foz6tbCrmAjw%2F Letting Go is easy when you have the parachute of a 12 Step Fellowship Detachment means “freedom from emotion.” Detachment is something all people in recovery seek. Letting someone else’s behavior determine how we feel at every turn is irresponsible. Our emotions should be determined by us, not by someone else. But no doubt we have spent years confusing the boundaries that separate us from other people. Whether at work or at home, we have too often let someone else’s “insanity” affect how we behave and how we feel. At first, it may seem insensitive not to react to others’ problems or negative behavior. We may fear they’ll think we simply don’t care about them. Learning that it is far more caring to let other people handle their own live... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3502988 Sat, 24 Apr 2010 11:48:15 +0100 3502988 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3480941&cid=t_112250_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FQnz4gz7t8ag%2F A recovery book dedicated to the claiming of your own personal boundaries, this book deals with our addictive or destructive relationships not only centered around our spouse or lover, but also around our children, our friends or our parents. If we have lost ourselves along the way, we have probably given ourselves away. This book examines where we are, where we want to go and how to get there. We will move addictive loving styles to find the true love of ourselves and reclaim our selfhood. This is a positive step-by-step process for recovery using affirmations and exercises for inner growth. - Order today >> Addictive Relationships - Alcoholism, Addiction & Codependency Recovery Bookstore Hazelden Books, DVD's & Medalions (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3480941 Fri, 16 Apr 2010 12:00:22 +0100 3480941 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3441067&cid=t_112250_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FUBRQnJKXiWM%2F In dysfunctional families, parents violate the boundaries of their children. Parents from these families; do not respect their children’s personal freedom and privacy, they discount their children’s feelings, do not honor their attempts at independent thinking and decision-making, and do not allow them to experience their impulses toward creativity, spirituality and self actualization. These deficits in the children’s development are revisited by problems in their adult relationships and careers, and with raising their own families. When parents disrespect a child’s boundaries, the child’s sense of self are compromised. This affects their; sense of autonomy, self-respect, feelings of effectiveness and making a difference. In place of a healthy sen... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3441067 Sun, 04 Apr 2010 15:21:41 +0100 3441067 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3441069&cid=t_112250_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FV3q18z3Hq_E%2F Codependency has become a buzzword of our time, and as with all buzzwords that acquire a certain cultural currency, the vital concepts behind it can sometimes be undermined with time. In the case of this particular buzzword, however, we cannot afford to let its meaning slip away. Codependency is one of our most destructive psychological habits, and, unfortunately, one of the most prevalent What is codependency? Contrary to what many people think, codependency does not only refer to dependent relationships that involve substance abuse. Its connotations are far broader. Someone who is codependent is one who has let another’s behavior or feelings affect them in a way that interferes with work, creativity, other relationships and personal growth. Alternately, the word codependency also... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3441069 Sun, 04 Apr 2010 14:34:00 +0100 3441069 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3435254&cid=t_112250_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fbedtime-stories-for-grown-ups%2F Is Goldilocks a manipulator? Do Hansel and Gretel have abandonment issues? And what happens after “happily ever after” anyway? Therapist Sue Gallehugh and her son Allen adapt classic fairy tales to illustrate the fundamental principles of self-love through mental health and psychological growth. Through wit and humor, these tales tackle serious issues such as anger, isolation, taking responsibility, bitterness, labeling, emotional boundaries, staying connected, abandonment, manipulation, fear and forgiveness. This little gem of a book cuts through the dreary mire of conventional self-help books to help you discover real solutions to the common problems that prevent us from growing. You’ll laugh out loud while reading “The Low Self-Esteem Duckling,&#822... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3435254 Sat, 03 Apr 2010 14:52:00 +0100 3435254 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3429229&cid=t_112250_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F03%2F31%2Fgoogle-and-facebook-therapists-and-clients%2F With more and more therapists embracing social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter, the question arises — where do you draw the line in terms of boundaries with your patients? Where does a patient’s and therapist’s privacy end or begin on such sites? How do patients and therapists navigate this brave new world of connectedness and “friending”? Dana Scarton over at The Washington Post has the insightful article addressing this issue by talking to a number of therapists across the country. These therapists have had to deal with their own challenges with social networking sites and “researching” people online once it was brought into psychotherapy by a client or a client’s actions. Professional associations haven’t addressed this ki... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3429229 Wed, 31 Mar 2010 18:45:52 +0100 3429229 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3420552&cid=t_112250_109_f&fid=34958&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.counsellingresource.com%2F%7Er%2Fpsychology-philosophy%2F%7E3%2FU-p5VB_0nY4%2F Most of the time, he's an absolute joy to be with. His energy lights up the room and is infectious to all around him. But every so often, without warning, and for seemingly no obvious reason, this adorable child turns into the living incarnation of Satan.Tags: boundaries, parenting and children, relationships (Source: Psychology, Philosophy and Real Life) Psychology, Philosophy and Real Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3420552 Tue, 30 Mar 2010 15:45:11 +0100 3420552 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3283483&cid=t_112250_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F02%2F18%2Fhealth-service-journal-2010-18th-february%2F Fade Fade: Total Place: how partnerships can maximise resources Fade Skinny: In the final part in our series on Total Place, Helen Mooney looks at how Birmingham’s Total Place pilot is focused on cutting through organisational boundaries and slashing waste while delivering better services (Print subscription held at Fade Library) Filed under: Current Awareness, Journals Tagged: Current Awareness, Journals, Organisational Boundaries, Organisational Change, Total Place (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3283483 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 12:54:42 +0100 3283483 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3200481&cid=t_112250_109_f&fid=34730&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychiatrist-blog.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fweird-social-situations.html Thank you all so much for your input on my Intrusions post. I'm going to sit with the chapter and your comments and try to get it all put together. Soon. I hope.So I want to talk about a weird social situation. I have to confabulate this one, you'll bear with me and not get too involved with the details, because they aren't real.There's this woman I know sort of vaguely. We've had a few conversations over the years, and she has always greeted me very warmly. We were never friends, but I like her, and like I said, the vibes between us were good. She called me at work one day and asked if I'd treat one of her family members. She's not a friend--- I said yes-- but I did make the comment to Family Member that I knew Warm Woman and asked if this was a problem. It wasn't. I saw the family member... Shrink Rap blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3200481 Sat, 23 Jan 2010 04:55:00 +0100 3200481 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3189416&cid=t_112250_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FZdOs3r5afxQ%2F Self-care. The bike is waiting! Self-care is about setting boundaries, letting go “Some of us have so many voices in our heads, we could hold group therapy by ourselves,” said Rokelle Lerner, a popular speaker and trainer on relationships, women’s issues, and addicted family systems. This internal chorus is often composed of voices from our family of origin, voices of critical teachers or bosses, voices from past relationships or current situations. Often these voices are drowned out by our own voice nagging, reprimanding, berating, but rarely praising us. In times of stress or chaos, the voices grow louder and it’s easy to go numb, Lerner recently told the audience at Hazelden’s Women Healing Conference in Minneapolis. “We become estranged from our pur... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3189416 Tue, 19 Jan 2010 03:51:00 +0100 3189416 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3149113&cid=t_112250_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F01%2F07%2Fintroducing-therese-borchards-new-book-beyond-blue%2F Unless you’ve been living under a rock this past year, you probably noticed that one of our regular contributors here has been Therese Borchard. However, she blogs more often and more regularly on her beliefnet.com blog, Beyond Blue. It was actually her wonderfully witty and touching writing there that led me to invite her to blog more regularly here. Therese is a rare find, combining a love of prose with a wealth of personal experiences with depression and other concerns to make for always engaging reading. So it’s no wonder she was able to bundle up that wisdom and publish her first book, Beyond Blue: Surviving Depression & Anxiety and Making the Most of Bad Genes. If you’ve enjoyed Therese’s posts either here or on her regular blog at beliefnet.com, then yo... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3149113 Thu, 07 Jan 2010 14:08:24 +0100 3149113 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2974171&cid=t_112250_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F11%2F09%2Fa-season-change%2F Autumn is a predictable season of change for me. Perhaps because it is a cooler, more relaxed version of Spring? I mean, Spring is a busy time with its longer days, shoots of green and blooms of bright color! As a contrast, Autumn definitely has its watercolor sunsets and hues of yellows and reds … But the days a soothingly shorter, planting chores are replaced with harvest and clearing. This ease typically serves to sooth and inspire me toward new horizons … “Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal”  (Philippians 3:12-14) … Dancing on down the proverbial Yellow-Brick Road. Um, but in real-time — not in am imaginary place where I am in search for what is already mine. I rejoice to be in a season in which the... The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2974171 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 13:29:23 +0100 2974171 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2908648&cid=t_112250_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F10%2F20%2Fjust-say-no-10-steps-to-better-boundaries%2F Up until recently, “No” was dirty word to me. As a stage-four people-pleaser, my vocabulary was rich with affirmatives: “yeah,” “sure,” “okay,” “absolutely,” “no problem.” But my mouth just couldn’t seem to form the consonant-vowel combination required to say “No,” even when “Yes” was simply impossible due to time conficts or just an overdose of stress in my daily life. I would get stuck at “Nnnnnnn… alright.” Which meant I was doing all kinds of things that I didn’t want to, have to, or have time to do. If you are like me, surrounded by a modest sampling of users, takers, and even well intentioned askers who could zap all your energy if you let them, take heart! He... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2908648 Tue, 20 Oct 2009 10:35:03 +0100 2908648 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2904853&cid=t_112250_87_f&fid=35052&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FWomensBioethicsBlog%2F%7E3%2FScTRP4YQYtw%2Fwhen-does-life-begin-and-end-debate.html Frederick Grinnell of Oxford University press in his blog post, Redefining Death — Again responds to the recent Nature editorial, “Delimiting death.” Grinnell’s post contributes to the ongoing public policy debate regarding the relationship between biological and spiritual life. In addition to this post, there are several other articles that are of significance: Dr. James Bernat, neurologist at Dartmouth, wrote an article entitled Chronic Consciousness Disorders, Annu. Rev. Med. 2009. 60:381–92. The article notes that new functional neuroimaging techniques using PET and fMRI provide a new and complementary way to assess consciousness; that fMRI technologies are showing that 'persistent vegetative state' is not always clear cut -- that there is more of a continuum and that some 'P... Women's Bioethics Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2904853 Mon, 19 Oct 2009 15:24:16 +0100 2904853 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2836230&cid=t_112250_111_f&fid=34834&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMentalNurse%2F%7E3%2Fy_p326rH5hU%2F Let’s start a big ol’ screaming row going. The subject of discussion is the Helen Goddard case. This is the 26 year old music teacher jailed and put on the sex offenders register after having a lesbian affair with a 15 year old pupil. The case seems to have provoked some unusual reactions, not least because the affair, while illicit and underage, does seem to have been consensual and loving. But does that excuse what she did? Victoria Coren has some comments in today’s Guardian about the case. We can’t help but be revolted by any tales of older people having sex with minors, yet this one is a real curio. A court has ruled that the couple are in love. Judge Anthony Pitts sent the Jazz Lady to prison for 15 months, but agreed she may retain contact with her schoolgir... Mental Nurse blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2836230 Sun, 27 Sep 2009 16:38:53 +0100 2836230 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2824167&cid=t_112250_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F09%2F23%2F10-tips-to-deal-with-therapy-dependency%2F Psychotherapy is a complicated process, fraught with its own difficulties that a person doesn’t always understand or appreciate. One of those difficulties is understanding the boundaries between you and the therapist, and how to keep them intact all the while the therapist is asking (or demanding) that you “open up” more and be completely honest. Sonia Neale, blogging over at Therapy Unplugged, recently wrote a great entry describing 10 methods she’s used to help deal with therapist dependency — that is, becoming dependent upon your therapist: When an emotionally intense person gets hooked on therapy, it’s hard to give up that dependency and become your own person; you just want to get legally adopted by your therapist and walk together hand in hand towards ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2824167 Wed, 23 Sep 2009 18:11:04 +0100 2824167 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2637963&cid=t_112250_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F07%2Ftide-marks-of-handprints-another-new.html Get the code:-Cut and pastefrom this littleboxy thing below Not so long back my children were earth bound with feet of clay, never to venture from my side they clung like limpets. Less than 18[?] months ago, they wouldn't even venture upstairs during daylight hours. The whole second story was a place of trepidation.And I'm passing the cleaning duties to the twit that let them watch Spiderman.If you like what you read, send it to someone in 'need.' (Source: Whitterer on Autism) Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2637963 Sat, 25 Jul 2009 06:02:00 +0100 2637963 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2570376&cid=t_112250_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FYTWEc7fIpeU%2F Andy McCarthy makes a good point over at The Corner about Laith al-Khazali, a member of a Shiite militant group responsible for the deaths of American troops in Iraq. Al-Khazali has been released, allegedly as part of negotiations with terrorists holding British hostages. Senators Sessions and Kyl have questioned this action in a letter to President Obama. McCarthy lays out the facts on al-Khazali here. Al-Khazali participated in a sophisticated attack on American troops in Karbala. The militants wore American uniforms and took American soldiers hostage. After leaving the site of the attack, the militants executed their prisoners. Though I have disagreed with McCarthy on other issues, he makes a valid point here. Al-Khazali is guilty of honest-to-goodness war crimes. Wearing an enemy&#8217... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2570376 Thu, 02 Jul 2009 19:14:27 +0100 2570376 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2464095&cid=t_112250_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FpjPfPUU8O18%2F Earlier today, Doug Bandow weighed in with some commentary on the problems that Buy American provisions are creating for both Canadian and American businesses. Let me reinforce his view that such rules are anachronistic and self-defeating with some thoughts from a forthcoming paper of mine about the incongruity between modern commercial reality and trade policies that have failed to keep pace. Even though President Obama implored, “If you are considering buying a car, I hope it will be an American car,” it is nearly impossible to determine objectively what makes an American car. The auto industry provides a famous example, but is really just one of many that transcends national boundaries and renders obsolete the notion of international competition as a contest between “our” pro... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2464095 Mon, 08 Jun 2009 18:34:17 +0100 2464095 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2452460&cid=t_112250_87_f&fid=34595&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnhsblogdoc.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F06%2Fpatients-right-to-change-doctor.html I am strongly in favour of a patient's right to choose the their own doctor. I cannot think of anything worse than having a patient who does not want to see me.I work in a more or less urban area. My practice boundaries are compact. There are two single handed GPs and a partnership of two GPs within our boundaries, and two large and excellent group practices just outside our boundary. Thus, if a patient is dissatisfied with the service we provide, they have no difficulty in moving to a different practice. There is genuine choice.In rural areas there is less choice of GPs.  There may be no choice at all.A few days ago, Andrew Lansley said:Alan Johnson published a Primary Care Strategy in July 2008 which sounded good. The headlines claimed that we'd all be able to choose our GP. But when ... NHS Blog Doctor blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2452460 Thu, 04 Jun 2009 04:21:00 +0100 2452460 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2442542&cid=t_112250_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F05%2F27%2Fdancing-to-new-rhythms%2F Photo Credit: sjb5 Dancer. Red. Joy. These words describe what is in my heart … Change can have its moments of outrageous joy … and sheer terror! Although we learn to dance to the jazzy beats of new rhythms — said dance routines are not without their tumbles and bruises. Notes of change played together to form new compositions and routines. Even as we fumble about sometimes until — with time and practice — we refine our days and learn how to maintain order in the midst of creatively managing our days. I have been jotting down some final notes of my latest composition. It incorporates notes and patterns I have danced to in the past; but this one is more refined and easier to dance to. Which is a good thing, since it is an extremely lively beat of sweet sixteenth notes! ... The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2442542 Wed, 27 May 2009 10:18:44 +0100 2442542 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2424414&cid=t_112250_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F05%2F20%2Fa-picture-is-worth-a-thousand-words%2F Photo Credit There is certainly truth to this statement:  A picture is worth a thousand words. I know because I have viewed several thousand “words” over the past several months! Interesting revelations, affirmations and hidden sorrows revealed in the process of sorting family photos. The image of merely one photo can trigger memories of the day it was captured on film — the people and places involved … The emotions of that moment in time. The process of organizing photographs and a walk down memory lane can also inspire forgiveness, and gift one with closure. It can introduce one to the process of  “Letting Go and Holding On” at the same time. ♥ The seasons of Life change and introduce us to new seasons … Of growth, of pruning and of harvest. Pho... The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2424414 Wed, 20 May 2009 15:43:53 +0100 2424414 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2405391&cid=t_112250_109_f&fid=34958&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.counsellingresource.com%2F%7Er%2Fpsychology-philosophy%2F%7E3%2FRA7LCFLQVMU%2F Ultimately, people have power only over one thing: the execution of their free will.Tags: boundaries, character disturbance, dependence, depression, independence, relationships, responsibility, series on personal empowerment (Source: Psychology, Philosophy and Real Life) Psychology, Philosophy and Real Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2405391 Thu, 14 May 2009 10:02:18 +0100 2405391 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2376244&cid=t_112250_109_f&fid=34730&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychiatrist-blog.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F04%2Fin-treatment-season-2-mias-sex-life.html Mia bursts in with breakfast and charges into Paul's kitchen despite his objections. She talks quickly and tells of her sexual escapades over the weekend. No sleep, she's drinking a lot, has acrobatic sex with a young band member and then David the cop, a guy she met at a bar. Paul wants to return to the office and Mia says, suggestively, "So you want me on the couch?" I'm wondering how safe Paul is alone with her.Mia talks about her relationships with men, it moves back to her relationship with her father. "I'm 43 and I'm entirely alone. Who do I have in my life-- You?" She talks about her loneliness.I guess I'm wondering if Mia has untreated bipolar disorder? --She's gone days without sleeping, she's intrusive, talks rapidly, promiscuous, maybe hypersexual, and her mood is labile. Paul l... Shrink Rap blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2376244 Mon, 27 Apr 2009 01:45:00 +0100 2376244 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2367530&cid=t_112250_109_f&fid=34730&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychiatrist-blog.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F04%2Fself-disclosure-and-being-genuine.html In the comment section to the post below on Sally Satel and Stigma, mysadalterego writes:I am rotating through psychiatry now (family practice traning) and really enjoying it, yet I feel terribly inauthentic treating bipolar patients ("I know what you mean, it is hard to give up the highs...") while being so secretive myself.My first thought was, well, if in a given situation it seems like it would feel more genuine to the doctor and might be helpful to the patient, then why not? It got me thinking about the reasons a physician might self-disclose a personal diagnosis to a patient, or not.Pros:-- It really is destigmatizing when successful people 'come out' and let people know they've been treated for an illness. On a person-by-person basis, this is not any individual's obligation, but I b... Shrink Rap blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2367530 Sat, 25 Apr 2009 22:20:00 +0100 2367530 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2348481&cid=t_112250_109_f&fid=35451&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jung-at-heart.com%2Fjung_at_heart%2Fdual_relationships.html In this week's episodes of In Treatment we saw two examples of dual relationships in psychotherapy and I have received emails asking to to say more about this. It might seem that it would be easy to make a clear definition and prohibition against dual relationships, but in fact it is not and how they are viewed varies some by theoretical orientation. The more the relationship between therapist and patient is the primary vessel for the work, then the less likely that such a relationship would be benign, for the therapy. The code of ethics for psychologists states: American Psychological Association: Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct  "A multiple relationship occurs when a psychologist is in a professional role with a person and (1) at the same time is in anot... Jung At Heart blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2348481 Fri, 10 Apr 2009 16:39:13 +0100 2348481 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2232543&cid=t_112250_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F03%2F04%2Ffour-steps-to-better-personal-boundaries%2F I feel like such a hypocrite when I write about boundaries because, while I am trying desperately to erect some in my life, it seems as though the plow comes through every day to make sure none stay up for longer than 24 hours. But after reading spiritual author Henri Nouwen this morning, I think I understand why boundary-building is so difficult for me, and why I feel so rejected when someone in my life holds up their sign “Sorry, closed for business.” In “The Inner Voice of Love” (my Bible if you haven’t already noticed): The great task is to claim yourself for yourself, so that you can contain your needs within the boundaries of your self and hold them in the presence of those you love. True mutuality in love requires people who possess themselves and who ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2232543 Wed, 04 Mar 2009 11:24:53 +0100 2232543 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2236122&cid=t_112250_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F03%2F03%2Fgot-pruners%2F We can’t do everything … But we can prune back! I confess. (In the event you don’t already know …) I am a dreamer. Pruning is not something that comes naturally for me — by any stretch of the imagination! However, I am ever-so slowly learning to prune back the distractions and errant limbs [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2236122 Wed, 04 Mar 2009 02:33:44 +0100 2236122 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2224566&cid=t_112250_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F02%2F28%2Fmotivation-to-change-the-road-forms-a-t%2F Living in a rural area, I am used to a road dead-ending … Usually at a barbed-wire fence border around a country field; the pavement forms a “T” … A place where I will have to make a turn — take a new direction — in order to get back to the direction I was [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2224566 Sat, 28 Feb 2009 18:47:59 +0100 2224566 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2212712&cid=t_112250_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F02%2F24%2Fwatercolor-life-2%2F See your life in a different light; notice varying hues. And allow sweeping broad strokes … Refinement will come later. ~stargardener More ponderings on Watercolor Living … (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2212712 Tue, 24 Feb 2009 13:29:34 +0100 2212712 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2207533&cid=t_112250_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F02%2F23%2Fmake-the-choice-the-hard-choice%2F We all face The Hard Choice. The Hard Choice to pull off the layers of complaint, of self-loathing, of disdain for everyone else and the overall sense of discontent, emptiness and a sorrow that goes beyond words. To get-real. To put aside what we are feeling and to ask God, “What are You doing?” and “What [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2207533 Mon, 23 Feb 2009 13:38:28 +0100 2207533 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2196346&cid=t_112250_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F02%2F18%2Frhythms-of-grace-how-to-avoid-crashing-waves-and-other-adventures%2F Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2196346 Wed, 18 Feb 2009 22:03:30 +0100 2196346 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2192507&cid=t_112250_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F02%2F16%2Fare-you-a-people-pleaser%2F Ever have shining moments of blinding revelation? I had one this morning. Said revelation actually started dawning on me last summer … It had to do with a comment made to me by a close friend. Her exact words escape me at the moment — probably because I was in a state of semi-shock when she [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2192507 Mon, 16 Feb 2009 21:05:16 +0100 2192507 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2169034&cid=t_112250_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F02%2F07%2Fno-parking-anytime%2F Is there a part of you that cannot simply be? Able to shift gears, and park … And be still? Does the absence of words and activity sound an alarm in your head that results in immediate (idle and endless!) chatter and frantic movement? Do these circumstances seem to scream: “Quick!! Say something! Do something! [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2169034 Sat, 07 Feb 2009 14:10:19 +0100 2169034 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2142577&cid=t_112250_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F01%2F29%2Fis-there-ever-enough%2F ♥ In the absence of clearly-defined goals, we become strangely loyal to performing daily trivia until ultimately we become enslaved by it. ~Robert Heinlein There are so many tasks, situations and people literally demanding our time, money and energies. How about just for today, we promise one another to do only what we have “enough”  [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2142577 Thu, 29 Jan 2009 15:30:44 +0100 2142577 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2077162&cid=t_112250_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F12%2F31%2Fdealing-with-overwhelm%2F As I ponder the possibilities for 2009 — I rejoice! And, I rejoice for the first time in a very long time. I am usually kicking the “old year” out the door and urging the “new year” to come in quickly! Assuming that surely a bright, shiny new year has to be better than an [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2077162 Wed, 31 Dec 2008 15:26:56 +0100 2077162 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2077164&cid=t_112250_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F12%2F28%2Fpondering-my-branches%2F Seeds of inspiration fall into my pocket when I breath in the fresh country air and soak in the warmth from the sun as it shines over my gardens. These seeds — various and a sundry — take root in my heart as I tend to them with the fertilizer of commitment and sprinklings of [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2077164 Sun, 28 Dec 2008 20:16:45 +0100 2077164 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2063229&cid=t_112250_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F12%2F24%2Fdreaming%2F Becoming mature means learning to accept what you cannot change, facing unresolved sorrows and learning to love life as it really happens, not as you would have it happen. When someone attaches unkindness to criticism, she’s angry. Angry people need to criticize as an outlet for their anger. That’s why you must reject unkind criticism. [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2063229 Wed, 24 Dec 2008 12:16:00 +0100 2063229 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2036246&cid=t_112250_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F12%2F15%2Fwe-cant-do-everything-but-we-can-set-priorities%2F Winter Sky During the past couple of months, I have challenged myself to live up to my bio. What does that mean? Well, if I say I am a gardener, that means I enjoy time in my gardens. Other selected habits in my bio: writing; photography; beading; collage art; various activity and miscellany regarding social entrepreneurism. That [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2036246 Mon, 15 Dec 2008 15:10:27 +0100 2036246 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2033099&cid=t_112250_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2008%2F12%2F12%2Fcan-i-give-my-therapist-a-gift%2F A commonly-asked question at this time of the year is, “Can I give my therapist a Christmas or holiday gift? What about just a card?” The answer varies from therapist to therapist and from doctor to doctor. Generally therapists seek to keep the relationship between a client and themselves a professional one, despite the emotional material often discussed in psychotherapy. The more the line blurs between “professional therapist” and “paid friend,” the more complicated the relationship becomes. So most therapists will seek to keep that line — what they call a boundary — clear and well-understood by both parties. Some therapists will talk about the subject proactively, letting each client know ahead of time what their policy is regarding pres... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2033099 Fri, 12 Dec 2008 14:18:57 +0100 2033099 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1964994&cid=t_112250_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F11%2F17%2Fitsy-bitsy-spider%2F So, I am a nature nut … Spiders in my gardens are a blessing since they help with unwanted insects. Besides they are fascinating! This particular spider was spinning away at the intricate lines of his web one morning while I was nearby planting pansies in my garden. The very same morning I had just reached [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1964994 Mon, 17 Nov 2008 15:24:02 +0100 1964994 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1941065&cid=t_112250_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F11%2F06%2Fsit-down-shut-up-and-enjoy-the-ride%2F I learned countless life-lessons while mothering and caring for my three children. And honestly, the long-term value of said education makes my “official lesson-learnin’” seem like kindergarten! One such lesson was: Sit down. Shut up. And enjoy the ride. This means: quit spinning, stop muttering and get on with It. (Whatever It is …) In the [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1941065 Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:33:39 +0100 1941065 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1842049&cid=t_112250_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F10%2F01%2Fcant-walk-and-chew-gum-at-the-same-time%2F Sunflower Crop — Seiling, Oklahoma Well, I have to admit that it appears futile for me to consider blogging and “doing” at the same time. Recent “doings” include: completing the redesign and declutter of both my studio (de creativity) and my chamber (de restore); final notes regarding high school transcript for my (rejoicing to see the [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1842049 Wed, 01 Oct 2008 13:36:42 +0100 1842049 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1830895&cid=t_112250_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F09%2F26%2Fwatercolor-life%2F Watercolor Sky, July 2008 (the drive-home was paused to enjoy this glorious sunset…) The notion of a watercolor life comforts me. It would include canvases of delicate, muted lines and broad strokes of color on pure-fiber archival paper and canvases … gentle mingling of pigments as each flows and transitions across the page … the clarity of [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1830895 Fri, 26 Sep 2008 21:06:40 +0100 1830895 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1818952&cid=t_112250_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F09%2F23%2Fcome-hell-or-high-water%2F Life is the art of drawing without an eraser. ~John W. Gardner The truth is more important than the facts. ~Frank Lloyd Wright Somewhere in my personal history I came to know about this phrase. I can hear my maternal grandmother’s distinct, and rather loud, voice broadcasting these words. Perhaps this is the personal origin for [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1818952 Tue, 23 Sep 2008 15:33:59 +0100 1818952 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1739074&cid=t_112250_109_f&fid=34730&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychiatrist-blog.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F08%2Fthings-to-ponder.html I've decided to start a series of thought-provoking (I hope) scenarios. These aren't real patients, they're just food for thought. Please chime in.So how much should one psychiatrist say to his patient about another psychiatrist? Here's the specifics-- a patient wants a referral for her friend. The friend is having difficulties related to his sexual orientation and the patient asks for the name of a gay therapist to give to her friend. She's only asking for a name, nothing about insurance or the specifics of any mental illness. Is it okay for the psychiatrist to give her the name and phone number of a gay psychotherapist to give to her friend? What are the assumptions that are being made here and is this a reasonable thing to do?----- Listen to our latest podcast at mythreeshrinks.com or s... Shrink Rap blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1739074 Thu, 28 Aug 2008 01:05:00 +0100 1739074 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1728182&cid=t_112250_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F08%2F21%2Fmoving-day%2F Photo Credit It is moving day for me! (Figuratively not literally!) However there is some literal decluttering going on throughout my house as I walk around with large, heavy-duty garbage bags — and an attitude of raw forward thinking! I have been here before … And I hope to be here again. It is a wonderful adventure [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1728182 Thu, 21 Aug 2008 14:21:53 +0100 1728182 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1728185&cid=t_112250_136_f&fid=37858&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdessertyears.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F08%2F17%2Fgood-bye-yellow-brick-road%2F Achievement seems to be connected with action. Successful men and women keep moving. They make mistakes, but they don’t quit. ~Conrad Hilton Farewell to the road of yellow bricks that merely takes me back to where I came from (and never want to return). Mentally revisiting my roots (beginnings; things familiar; experience) merely as a springboard [...] (Source: The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel)) The Dessert Years . . . (the sequel) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1728185 Sun, 17 Aug 2008 22:54:24 +0100 1728185 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1660723&cid=t_112250_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2008%2F07%2F28%2Fare-you-burning-out%2F Burnout is subtle. It creeps up on you slowly. How do you know if you are burning out? I know well the face of burnout. I found myself questioning my motives, feeling guilty, and being greatly misunderstood. Sometimes I was shamed for not “working enough!” I found very few helpful resources. I discovered that most people did not understand the causes and signs of burnout. What are the signs of burnout? As a professional counselor I have researched burnout. According to the best research available on the subject there are three aspects of burnout: 1. Perception of Inequity/Unfairness/Injustice When you start to feel like you are getting the short end of the deal, being mistreated, under-appreciated… You may be burning out. Equity means that you get at least enough “payment” t... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1660723 Mon, 28 Jul 2008 11:24:38 +0100 1660723 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1616482&cid=t_112250_151_f&fid=35793&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thejunkyswife.com%2F2008%2F07%2Fno.html Our meeting this evening covered a lot of things, but I heard myself saying something that I'm not sure I'd articulated before about my boundaries. I don't know if it's a good rule or not, as it is rather subjective...but it's working for me now, kind of.I have to set a boundary with my husband when whatever it is that he's asking me to do will make me feel resentful. Instead of looking outside of myself for what is right or wrong, and instead of looking at him for what will or will not piss him off, I look at me.For instance, we crossed paths when I was about to leave to go to my meeting tonight. He wanted me to take him somewhere to buy him some food. It was a small request, but it hit me wrong. I'm broke, and I don't want to buy anything extra for him, especially not something that I wo... Heroin Addiction Codependence blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1616482 Sun, 13 Jul 2008 01:35:00 +0100 1616482 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1481834&cid=t_112250_109_f&fid=34730&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychiatrist-blog.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F05%2Fstories-from-office.html I'm not sure where I'm going with this story or even why I'm telling it. I've convinced myself that it's okay to tell it, even though it's a real patient story, and I'll confabulate some details, but basically it's true. I haven't seen the patient in over ten years, I don't recall his name, I'm not sure if he's even alive. It's one of those stories, however, that sticks in my head; one I think about from time to time, one that makes me wish I could tell it to the people it involves.So John (not his real name) was an elderly, but not old, gentleman. He laughed easily and found joy in many things. He and his wife of 53 years had many wonderful things going on in their lives.He talked about his father who had come to this country from Europe. His father had very definitive ideas about how Jo... Shrink Rap blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1481834 Sat, 31 May 2008 22:29:00 +0100 1481834 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2786040&cid=t_112250_109_f&fid=38952&url=http%3A%2F%2Fschlockdoc.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F05%2Fboundary-transgressions.html (Source: psychobabble) psychobabble blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2786040 Sat, 31 May 2008 01:38:00 +0100 2786040 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1446027&cid=t_112250_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2008%2F05%2F15%2Fsocial-networks-may-blur-professional-boundaries%2F With the rising movement of e-patients and social networking sites like Facebook, LinkedIn and Myspace, a question has recently surfaced on a mental health mailing list I subscribe to where a professional asks, “When should I accept a ‘friend’ request from a patient or former patient?” It’s a good question and one that sheds some light on the blurring of the traditionally clear boundaries between doctor and patient (or, in the case of psychotherapy, therapist and client). It helps first to understand some terminology. A “friend request” is not exactly what it sounds like. “Friends” on social networks like Myspace or Facebook are not the same thing as when we typically think of as friends. In a savvy marketing move, Myspace popularize... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1446027 Thu, 15 May 2008 18:10:48 +0100 1446027 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1377956&cid=t_112250_109_f&fid=34753&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.relaxedtherapist.com%2Faim-for-reliability-before-availability%2Frapport%2F Reliability is more important than availability in the long run. Clients who know when you are not available can make informed choices regarding alternative sources of support. I once worked with a client who rang her GPs so frequently and insistently that they established a rota for taking her calls. She bombarded every new therapist with telephone calls. I told her she could call me between 1030 and 1130 on Monday or Thursday and that if I was on another call, I’d call her as soon as I finished. She rang me twice the first week and two more times in the next six months. She also called her GPs and CPN less frequently. Many therapists feel a duty to respond to client’s crises. Who better to address a difficult situation: the therapist who has listened carefully to the client&#... The Relaxed Therapist blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1377956 Thu, 17 Apr 2008 05:13:31 +0100 1377956 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1344646&cid=t_112250_151_f&fid=35793&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thejunkyswife.com%2F2008%2F04%2Fwhat-comes-is-better.html Oh I do believe In all the things you say What comes is better than what came before -Cat Power, "I Found A Reason"I've jut had a few much-needed days to myself while my husband has been out of town, and it has been wonderful. I needed it. Oh, I needed it.I'm starting to feel almost like I miss him. I'd been dreading his return, but it's been long enough now. I'd like for him to come home, I think.I am afraid, though. Every little sprouting hope feels so vulnerable, so tiny and scary.He did this thing that I really liked when he was leaving town. It was new...he gets his money deposited into my account for his methadone maintenance, and I go with him and pay at the clinic because he says money is triggering for him. Because he is out of town, he is guest dosing at anothe... Heroin Addiction Codependence blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1344646 Tue, 01 Apr 2008 19:17:00 +0100 1344646 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1048753&cid=t_112250_151_f&fid=35793&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thejunkyswife.com%2F2007%2F11%2Fboundaries.html Sigh. I guess I need to call my sponsor.I'm struggling with those complicated borderlands between boundaries and control, acceptance and accepting unacceptable behavior, keeping quiet to keep my sanity and keeping quiet to keep a false sense of peace.A few weeks ago, we'd reached a breaking point in our marriage. He'd gone to stay with his folks, and I'd taken his key to my home. I needed some time to think about what it was going to take for him to be welcome to stay here, and I came up with three things, three boundaries that are necessary for my sanity, for my comfort living with someone who has been in and out of active addiction and who has entangled me in all the insanity that comes along with it. I told him that he needs to be able to pay his own way, including both paying for his o... Heroin Addiction Codependence blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1048753 Sun, 25 Nov 2007 03:47:00 +0100 1048753 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=560375&cid=t_112250_85_f&fid=34967&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdocisinblog.com%2Findex.php%2F2007%2F04%2F21%2Fancient-boundaries-4%2F This is a series on the erosion of moral, cultural, and ethical boundaries in modern society:    ♦ Part 1 — Moving the Ancient Boundaries    ♦ Part 2 — The Rebel & the Victim    ♦ Part 3 — Undermining Civil Authority   Do not move the ancient boundary stone   set up by your forefathers.         – Proverbs 22:28 –    ♦ The Assault on Religious Authority Undermining the legitimacy of civil authority and mutating the role of government into an instrument for protecting personal licentiousness — while endlessly chasing solutions to the incorrigible problems thus generated — is a key element in the secula... The Doctor Is In blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=560375 Sun, 22 Apr 2007 19:54:22 +0100 560375 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=545630&cid=t_112250_109_f&fid=34730&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychiatrist-blog.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F04%2Fyou-order-salad-like-shrink.html Or: working towards the MNP (see posts below)Warning-- Plot SpoilerSo I went to see Reign Over Me with the connected Judge and my connected now-13-year-old daughter. I think Carrie recommended it some time ago in a comment on an old post. It was my second attempt this weekend to see The Namesake, the first go around I ended up at The Hoax with my husband.So Reign Over Me Was a shrink blogger's jackpot. Here's the drift:Alan Johnson (Don Cheadle) is a dentist, he lives in Manhattan with the perfect wife, the perfect life and two lovely daughters. His job and family define him, he longs for friendship, maybe even adventure, his life is perfect but sterile. In a boundary-violating maneuver bordering on stalking, he lurks outside a psychiatrist's office to bombard her with questions about "a f... Shrink Rap blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=545630 Mon, 16 Apr 2007 17:01:00 +0100 545630 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=504148&cid=t_112250_85_f&fid=34967&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdocisinblog.com%2Findex.php%2F2007%2F03%2F27%2Fancient-boundaries-3%2F This is a series on the erosion of moral, cultural, and ethical boundaries in modern society:    ♦ Part 1 — Moving the Ancient Boundaries    ♦ Part 2 — The Rebel & the Victim   Do not move the ancient boundary stone   set up by your forefathers.         – Proverbs 22:28 –   In prior posts, we began to examine some of the many ways which a society will evolve and act if it seeks to move the ancient boundaries, to chip away at absolutes, principles, and tradition in order to create a new utopia grounded in narcissism and libertinism. Here, I will continue to illustrate the means whereby an increasingly individualistic and relativistic society, having lost ... The Doctor Is In blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=504148 Tue, 27 Mar 2007 19:48:55 +0100 504148 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=480225&cid=t_112250_85_f&fid=34967&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdocisinblog.com%2Findex.php%2F2007%2F02%2F11%2Fancient-boundaries-2%2F This is a series on the erosion of moral, cultural, and ethical boundaries in modern society:    ♦ Part 1 — Moving the Ancient Boundaries   Do not move the ancient boundary stone set up   by your forefathers.         – Proverbs 22:28 –   The societal trend evident today — the gradual and progressive shift from spirituality and faith-based life principles, to scientific secular rationalism, and ultimately to postmodernism, which is the triumph of tribalism, radical individualism, and emotionalism over faith and reason — has many manifestations. The frantic pace of a society filled with countless pressures and endless distractions permits us at best to focus only on the immed... The Doctor Is In blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=480225 Sun, 11 Feb 2007 09:10:33 +0100 480225