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Mental Health Topeka KS – Angela’s Blog

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WHO DOES WHAT... in the world of mental/behavioral health and addictions? The role of your professional counselor.
I have been asked several times whether I have appointments available to see a client because he or she is out of medications or no longer has a doctor who prescribes him or her medications.  I am always patient and try to take the time to explain to the individual exactly who I am and what I can or cannot do because it is confusing.
I decided I would take some time now and answer the mysteries of who does what in the world of mental/behavioral health and addictions.
 
I start by explaining that the only providers who can prescribe medications are medical doctors and some nurse practitioners; this includes, but is not limited to Primary Care Physicians (family doctors), Psychiatrists, Nurse Practitioners etc.
Social Workers, Clinical Social Workers, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors, and Licensed Professional Counselors are Master's level providers/clinicians who provide individual, couples, family, and group therapy.  Some of these licensed providers also conduct substance abuse and other addictions evaluations to identify the appropriate level of care for an individual ie. residential treatment, outpatient, or intensive outpatient treatment.  These providers use talk therapy; processing thoughts, feelings, and behaviors; incorporate psychoeducational materials; as well as incorporate homework assignments into the individual's treatment to increase participation, insight, and growth.
Psychologists have obtained their Doctorate degree; this does not make them a physician, it means that this person has went to school pass the Master's level and received a doctoral degree.  Psychologists generally provide many of the services that Master's level clinicians do, but also have specialized training in performing psychological testing for clients.
The most important thing to know and look for is a provider, clinician, or physician that meets your needs and places your care as their priority.  Some people NEED medication to help manage symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder, ADHD, Bipolar, or Schizophrenia, however, the client/patient can reach higher levels of success and stability by participating in therapy/counseling services.
I hope this is helpful to you.  Just please remember that by working together, amazing change CAN happen!
Angela D. McClain

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Good day all-
So happy you stopped by Firm Foundations Counseling's website.  Wow, that was a mouthful, huh?  This gives us a great opportunity to become introduced with one another and everyone who knows me, knows I love meeting new people.  I am one that truly feels/believes it is a blessing when others allow me into their lives, so always be assured that you are the priority!!
When thinking about what to post on my blog, many topics came to mind; however, one topic that really struck me as extremely interesting and important to address focuses on all the individuals I have met, interacted with, or even hear about that have either had negative experiences with a therapist (past or present), felt that they get or have gotten nothing out of counseling, or those that have never even tried counseling for whatever reason i.e. stigma, not feeling it's a priority, etc.
I think many of us have had negative thoughts, feelings, or even past experiences regarding therapy/counseling; maybe even now, you're working with a therapist who you don't feel is a good 'fit' or helpful to you.  Therapy/counseling CAN definitely be a beneficial, effective addition to your growth, stability, and recovery process, but it takes commitment, support, encouragement, and someone that cares enough to challenge you.  Yes, I said challenging someone in our lives comes from caring and believing that this person CAN and WILL rise above all of the 'junk' we so often refer to as our lives.  Therapy/counseling can be effective for a wide array of challenges including depression, sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, fear, feelings of loss and grief, trauma, abuse, addictions, codependency, behavioral issues, schizophrenia, bipolar; you name it, the list goes on and on; however, the biggest thing to remember is that it starts, continues, and ends with YOU!!  It starts with you opening your mind to the possibility that there are therapists/counselors who are effective, are interested, and truly feel/believe it is a privilege to have you as his or her client.  Mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, other addictions, relationships, etc. are vitally important aspects of all of our lives and SHOULD receive the attention they deserve, because without emotional, psychological, behavioral, and relational stability and security, nothing can remain balanced.  Always remember that YOU ARE SO VERY IMPORTANT and deserve the best care possible.  If you aren't receiving what you need or deserve, search for someone who can meet your needs because the focus shouldn't be on the therapist/counselor's business, it SHOULD be on you...ALWAYS!  Thank you for taking the time to read my posting.  More postings will follow on a regular basis with resources, advice, links, and of course, receiving and answering any questions you might post on my website.  I would love to have you ask questions because if you are questioning something, there's a good chance that someone else is questioning it as well.
Have a great day!!!  Talk with you soon.  Angela

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NOW OPEN! Firm Foundations Counseling -  Therapy for couples, individuals, and families. Your premier source for compassionate and caring mental health services in Topeka Kansas.

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At Firm Foundations Counseling,  I am  dedicated to client satisfaction, and my flexible appointment options make it easy to schedule a session. I am committed to your treatment and specialize in a friendly and attentive approach, which means you can feel comfortable in my office.  I use research-based interventions and approaches, with services that include:

  • Treatment for anxiety and depression
  • Parent, child, and family counseling
  • Christian or general counseling
  • Trauma and grief therapy

I am very much looking forward to walking alongside you in your road into and through recovery! Take that first step, and schedule your appointment today (785) 228-5691

Angela D. McClain M.S. , LCPC, T-LAC