cdenk, Author at Partners for Behavioral Health and Wellness, Inc.

What is EMDR?

What is EMDR? Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) is a structured, evidence-based psychotherapy designed to help individuals process and heal from distressing or traumatic memories. EMDR was specifically created to treat individuals that have been diagnose with post-traumatic stress disorders who find it difficult to function because of their unresolved trauma. During EMDR, a therapist guides the person to bring to mind a troubling memory while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation (often side-to-side eye movements, though sometimes tapping, sounds or buzzers are used). The goal is to reduce the vividness [...]

cdenk2026-09-16T22:07:07+00:00September 16th, 2026|

When Your Therapist Suggests Medication

You and your therapist have a good relationship. You’ve been seeing each other for a while, and you feel a certain amount of safety when you’re in therapy. One session, your therapist asks you if you have ever considered medication. Your jaw drops. You? Medication? Why are they saying that? What are they seeing? I obviously do not speak for all therapists, so let me tell you what would make me suggest medication to a client. Typically, I have four criteria that I like to have met before I make [...]

cdenk2026-07-02T18:06:28+00:00July 1st, 2026|

Clinical Musings: Extra Curriculars or Therapy Appointment?

Clinical Musings: A Therapist’s Thoughts about Various Topics By Elizabeth Garrett MSSA, LISW-S Feb 11, 2026 Extra Curriculars or Therapy Appointment? Your child has been doing so well in therapy. They go weekly, enjoy going, and you get positive feedback about their sessions. You’re even seeing some shifts at home! They hate missing appointments, but tech week is coming up. Or hockey championships. Or the big volleyball tournament is happening. And it conflicts with their therapy. What’s the right call?!?! Professionally speaking, the right call is to pick “the thing”. [...]

cdenk2026-02-19T03:24:45+00:00February 19th, 2026|

What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?

What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy? Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely used, evidence-based form of psychotherapy that focuses on the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. The core idea is that how we interpret events rather than the events themselves shapes how we feel and act. CBT typically involves working collaboratively with a therapist to: Recognize distorted or unhelpful thinking patterns. Challenge those thoughts using evidence and alternative perspectives. Change behavioral habits that reinforce distress or negative outcomes. Therapy often includes structured sessions, goal-setting, and homework assignments such as [...]

cdenk2026-02-19T03:18:49+00:00February 12th, 2026|

How You Can Tell If Your Antidepressant Is Working

By Marise Alexander PsyD Over the years, I have seen many individuals who have been prescribed antidepressant medications. I have also recommended that individuals consult their healthcare providers regarding the prescription of antidepressant medication to help manage their anxiety and depressive symptoms. In my experience, it is quite helpful to discuss with what they can expect to feel as the antidepressant starts to work. It is really important to understand that there is no magic pill that starts working and cures everything. Antidepressant medications can be very effective but they [...]

cdenk2026-01-30T15:31:02+00:00January 30th, 2026|