Recently, several patients in their twenties have introduced themselves to me by telling me the diagnosis they got from Google, TikTok, or some other website. And while it was tempting to ignore these self-diagnoses, I thought it was important to understand not only why the patient had done the research, but what it meant to the individual to turn a bout of sadness, or difficulty in a relationship, or worry into a psychiatric label. For one of them, it seemed easier to look for a psychologist … [Read more...]
Mental Health Matters!
June 8, 2026 By
Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. If you were a diabetic or had cancer your would not ignore it, you would see a doctor. So why would you ignore depression, anxiety, OCD, or a serious family dysfunction? Remember that all things “mental health” can also be treated via telehealth in New Jersey and you would not even have to leave your home or office to see your psychologist. You deserve to feel your best both physically and … [Read more...]
When Bad Habits Aren’t Easy to Fix: Understanding Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs)
May 6, 2026 By
Have you ever bitten your nails or cuticles when you were stressed? Or found yourself pulling on your hair while reading a book or watching TV? For many people, these behaviors come and go. But for others, they persist and are hard to control, often evolving into ongoing repetitive behaviors that are hard to control and can be emotionally distressing and physically harmful. Chrissy was a teenager who came to see me because she was pulling out her hair and her eyebrows. She had a bald … [Read more...]
Neuroplasticity: How Your Brain Can Change and Why It Matters
March 24, 2026 By
Scientists used to think the brain could not be changed after childhood but now we know that is not true. The brain is constantly changing and that ability to change is called Neuroplasticity. Every thought, memory, movement, behavior or emotion is supported by networks of neurons communicating with one another. When you repeat an experience - whether good or bad - those connections strengthen. This is how habits form and it is also how you can change habits, with practice. For … [Read more...]
Warning Signs That Your Marriage May Be in Trouble
February 25, 2026 By
Every marriage has its ups and downs. Times when communication falters and you feel distant from your partner. It is easy to ignore these warning signs and hope they go away. But what if they don’t? The emotional connections that hold people together are key to a good relationship and admitting problems. While hard, it is the first step toward rebuilding your love. Consider the 18-year marriage of Georgia and Sam. They have raised three children, Sam is successful in his career and … [Read more...]