Dr. Stephanie Schacher
Licensed Clinical Psychologist

SERVICES OFFERED:

Individual psychotherapy for adults and adolescents

 

Psychiatric evaluations including evaluation for bariatric surgery

 

Family and couples psychotherapy

 

Supervision and consultation of mental health professionals

 

Conducting workshops and speaking to professional and community groups 

WHAT IS A CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST?

Clinical Psychologists have earned a doctorate degree in psychology, which represents the highest level of training in the field.  Training focuses on therapy and counseling, and the diagnosis and treatment of mental health problems. 

 

Psychologists are required to complete several years of supervised practice before they are able to become licensed.  With some exceptions, clinical psychologists do not prescribe medications.

 

While many people offering mental health services may use the terms “therapist”, “psychotherapist”, or “counselor”, the use of these terms does not mean that the person is licensed or has the appropriate training.  In fact, some people using these terms may have very little training at all.  When you consult a licensed clinical psychologist, you are ensured that the individual has appropriate credentials and the highest level of mental health training.

WHEN TO SEEK PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES

The decision to seek counseling or psychotherapy can be a difficult one for many people, and often people think about it for a while before seeking help.  Sometimes choosing a psychologist can feel like an overwhelming task.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, one-third of adults in the United States experience an emotional or substance abuse problem, and nearly 25% of the adult population suffers at some point from depression or anxiety. Many do not even recognize that they have a condition that can be treated very effectively.  A delay in seeking treatment may increase the intensity of problems. 

 

Consider therapy if:

  • You feel an overwhelming and prolonged sense of helplessness and sadness, and your problems do not seem to get better despite your efforts and help from family and friends;
  • You are finding it difficult to carry out everyday activities, work or school responsibilities, or engaging meaningfully with others;
  • You find yourself continuously worrying, are constantly "on edge", or are having problems sleeping;
  • You have stopped engaging in leisure activities, hobbies, exercise, and pleasurable activities and pastimes;
  • You are avoiding and withdrawing from others (“social isolation”);
  • You are targeting your anger, frustrations, and unhappiness at others;
  • You are using alcohol, drugs, or even food (“self-medicating”) as a way to avoid painful feelings;
  • Your behaviors are harmful to yourself or to others.  For example, you may be drinking alcohol excessively, becoming argumentative or moody, and your behavior is a concern to others.

It is important that the client and therapist create a partnership where there is a sense of connection, and an atmosphere of respect, support, trust and caring.  With these conditions, therapy best succeeds.