Mental Health Services
The Mental Health Dilemma
How do we know if a person is having a medical problem or a mental health problem?
How do we know if a medical problem is caused by a mental health problem?
How do we know if a mental health problem is caused by a medical problem?
These are some of the dilemmas we at Medical Advocates of Virginia can help solve. We understand that in order to be diagnosed with a “Mental Health Disorder” a person has to meet certain criteria. This is not a guessing game!
When deciding on a diagnosis, a qualified professional must:
- Hold an appropriate and recognized professional credential.
- Have knowledge of the medical problems, conditions or medications that can lead to the appearance of mental symptoms.
- Have a complete understanding of the effects of alcohol or drug use on thinking, remembering, or any other activity that requires mental acuity.
- Work within the framework of the guidelines set down by The American Psychological Association, which are based on The World Health Organization’s universally accepted classification of all diseases. Only then can we refer with confidence to the correct service provider for your specific needs.
These are just a few of the criteria that we must use in determining just what is going on:
- The type of symptoms present
- The number of symptoms present
- The severity of the symptoms present
- The duration of the symptoms
Special Services for Trauma and PTSD
We offer a special approach for individuals with a history of trauma and/or PTSD (Posttraumatic Stress Disorder). The Traumatic Incident Resolution (TIR) model has been successfully used to assist those with trauma or PTSD in reclaiming their lives and moving in a positive direction. TIR is a non-hypnotic, one-on-one approach. This model is different from “talk therapy”. In the TIR approach the client sets the agenda and the facilitator designs a set of procedures to address the issue. The facilitator does not interrupt, direct you away from your topic or offer conclusions. The model relies on the belief that you are the expert on your experience.
Kathryn McCormack-Chen, LCSW, RN is a TIR facilitator and trainer, and she has extensive expertise using this approach with trauma clients. Her experience using this technique with 9/11 survivors has been published in Beyond Trauma: Conversations on Traumatic Incident Reduction by Victor R. Volkman, Loving Healing Press, Ann Arbor, MI, 2004.
You can learn more about trauma, PTSD, and the TIR model on our Commonly Asked Questions page. We will be posting additional information about the use of TIR in the future.
Because of our vast experience we can help you or your loved one get to the bottom of whatever is getting in the way of leading a fulfilling and productive life.
Look Closely
If you notice one or more of these signs, you may need our services:
- Feelings of hopelessness or suicide
- Nightmares or flashbacks
- Lack of energy or fatigue
- Persistent sadness
- Loss of interest in enjoyable activities
If you are concerned for your loved one, contact us now to find out how we can help.
Fees
Place your mouse here for fee infoFeesWe will provide a fifteen-minute phone consultation at no cost.
There is a fee for all other services provided.
There is a three-tier system of fees which relates to the complexity of the case and services needed.
We do not accept insurance.
We accept Visa, MasterCard, checks and cash.
