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Mental Health Center

Addressing Intimacy Issues Through Couples Therapy

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Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry Intimacy is a crucial component of any healthy romantic relationship, encompassing not only physical closeness but also emotional, psychological, and relational bonds. When intimacy struggles arise, they can deeply affect the dynamics of a relationship, leaving partners feeling disconnected, misunderstood, and frustrated. However, research from the last decade has shown that both couples therapy and sex therapy can be effective in addressing intimacy issues, helping couples foster a deeper connection and rebuild trust, communication, and affection. In this post, we’ll explore how couples therapy and sex therapy can be powerful tools for addressing intimacy issues, citing recent research and examining how these therapeutic approaches can lead to long-lasting improvements in relationships. Understanding Intimacy Issues in Relationships Intimacy issues can manifest in various forms—emotional distance, sexual dissatisfaction, communication breakdowns, or an inability to share vulnerability …

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5 Tips on Overcoming Loneliness in the Digital Age

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Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry In a world increasingly connected through digital technology, many people find themselves feeling more isolated than ever before. Despite the constant presence of social media, video calls, and messaging apps, loneliness has become a significant issue for many. The digital age has brought countless benefits in terms of staying in touch, but it has also created new challenges in fostering genuine, meaningful connections. Research shows that loneliness can have a profound impact on mental health, contributing to feelings of depression, anxiety, and even physical health issues. The good news is that overcoming loneliness is possible, even in our highly digital world. In this blog post, we will explore why loneliness persists in the digital age, the psychological effects it can have, and most importantly, practical tips for combating loneliness and building authentic relationships. The …

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Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning for Mental Health

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Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry The field of mental health treatment is on the verge of a major breakthrough, thanks to new technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML). The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) has launched an initiative to encourage scientists and researchers to use AI and ML in developing new treatments for psychiatric disorders, such as depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. This initiative, called a Notice of Special Interest (NOSI), aims to speed up the process of discovering and developing life-changing medications for mental health conditions. Let’s break it down—what does this all mean, and why is it important for mental health? What is the NIMH Notice of Special Interest (NOSI)? The NIMH has released a special notice called NOT-MH-25-050, inviting scientists to use AI and ML in the early stages of drug development …

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The Connection Between Gut Health and Mental Health

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Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry While therapy and medication are essential tools in treating mental health conditions, emerging research suggests that one of the most important (but often overlooked) factors in mental health is the health of your gut. Known as the gut-brain axis, the direct connection between the gut and the brain is a groundbreaking discovery that highlights how the state of your digestive system can profoundly affect your mental health. In this blog, we’ll explore the fascinating link between gut health and mental well-being and offer practical tips to nurture both. We also emphasize that for those experiencing mental health symptoms, it’s important to consult both a medical doctor and a nutritionist to ensure you’re taking a comprehensive approach to your health. What is the Gut-Brain Axis? The gut-brain axis refers to the communication network between your …

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Clinician Highlight: Ingrid (Inka) Z. Guerzon, MSN, FNP-BC, NP-C, PMGT-BC, CPAN

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We are thrilled to welcome Inka Z. Guerzon, a skilled and compassionate Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) with a diverse background in pain management, post-anesthesia care, and psychiatric-mental health nursing. With over a decade of experience in various clinical settings, Ingrid brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her practice. Inka has worked at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles where she provided specialized care on the Inpatient Acute Pain Unit. Here, she collaborated with a multidisciplinary team to develop tailored pain management plans for patients. Her background in post-anesthesia care informs her holistic approach, ensuring that each patient’s recovery process is as smooth and comfortable as possible. Inka’s commitment to advancing her knowledge and skills is evident in her pursuit of a Post-Master’s Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certificate, which she completed in 2024. This additional training allows her to better serve individuals with mental health needs, integrating psychiatric care …

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