Social Skill Training Treatment Plans Using The Mental Health Suite: Fill & Download for Free

It is important to understand the difference between a psychiatrist, psychologist, psychotherapist and counsellor:Finding what type of mental health support suits your situation can be very difficult. There are many professions out there that overlap. This ranges from counsellors and psychotherapists to psychiatrists and psychologists. There is also a jungle of terminology to get your head around before you start searching for the right professional.Ensuring you can find someone who has suitable training and a background to match is essential. Finding a person who you feel comfortable talking to is equally important.On this page we will look at the various professions within the mental health industry. We will explain what they do, how they can help and the key differences between them. This should help you understand what profession will be best able to assist you.On this pagePsychotherapistCounsellorPsychologistPsychiatristFurther helpPsychotherapistPsychotherapy is a term that covers all talking therapies and the many associated approaches/methods. Due to the broad use of the terms, the titles psychotherapist and counsellor are often used interchangeably.The aim of psychotherapy is to help clients overcome a wide scope of concerns. These concerns range from emotional difficulties to psychiatric disorders. Psychotherapists can train solely in psychotherapy. They may also cross over from other professional backgrounds within the mental health sector.Psychotherapists can choose from a wealth of approaches to help you understand and explore how you feel. Some therapists also teach skills to help you manage difficult emotions more effectively.For more severe conditions, such as psychosis, a psychotherapist will normally work with other professionals (such as psychiatrists). This allows for an effective, robust treatment plan.A psychotherapist can work with individuals, groups, families or couples. Many tend to specialize in who they work with and what issues they address. For example, psychotherapists can decide whether they work with children or adults.Psychotherapists will typically meet with clients on a regular basis (once a week is considered the norm). There are many different types of therapy that psychotherapists can train in. They include:cognitive and behavioral therapies (focusing on the way people think and behave)psychoanalytic therapies (looking at how past experiences affect the present)humanistic therapies (with a focus on self-development and growth)arts therapies (using the creative arts in a therapeutic way)other therapies (includes all other therapies such as group therapies and mindfulness).There are many schools of thought when it comes to the therapies used within psychotherapy. So before you begin, research and see which type resonates with you.There are currently no legal restrictions surrounding the title of psychotherapist. However there are some titles within the field that are regulated/protected. This includes ‘registered psychotherapist’. Professional bodies such as the UKCP protect such titles. They ensure high standards of training with an emphasis on safety of practice. You can find out more about registered/accredited titles on our professional bodies page.Key points about psychotherapistsThey help people with emotional/psychological concerns using talking therapies.They may work within a team of other medical professionals.They can choose to specialise in certain therapies, such as cognitive behavioural therapy.Depending on their training, they can work with individuals, groups, families or couples.CounsellorA counsellor will utilise psychotherapy to help clients going through mental health difficulties. In some cases, professionals may choose to call themselves a psychotherapist. Others may refer to themselves as a counsellor.Some experts believe that while areas of the two professions overlap, psychotherapists work on longer-term concerns and have the training to reflect this. Others argue that there is little to no distinction between the professions. Many counsellors now undergo similar extensive training as psychotherapists. Checking a professional's experience, training and qualifications is always advised. This will give you a better understanding of how they can help support your needs.When we talk about counselling, we are referring to one-to-one, group or couple meetings. In these settings people are free to talk about their feelings to a trained professional. This takes place in a confidential environment.A counselling session may simply involve the client and counsellor talking through concerns with no specified structure or agenda. Alternatively, a counsellor may use a specific form of psychotherapy to help the client.There are many different areas counselling can help with, including:abuseaddictionsbereavementdepression, stress and anxietyeating disordersfamily issueslow self-confidence and low self-esteemrelationship issuestraumawork related issues.Another point to consider is the various formats of counselling:Face-to-face individual counselling offers you the chance to talk openly with your counsellor.Group counselling involves discussing concerns within a group of people experiencing similar difficulties. The counsellor facilitates the discussion.Couples counselling involves the exploration of relationship issues with your partner and counsellor.Family counselling involves discussing concerns surrounding family relationships with your counsellor.The aim of both psychotherapists and counsellors is to create an environment in which you feel safe discussing your feelings. For this reason you need to develop a trusting relationship with your therapist. If you do not feel comfortable with your chosen counsellor, discuss this in your next session. Alternatively, you could look to speak to a different professional.Similar to the title psychotherapist, the title counsellor is not legally protected. So you should check the professional's credentials to ensure they are qualified to practice.Key points about counsellorsThe term counsellor is not legally restricted in the UK. You are advised to check their credentials.Counselling can be applied individually, in groups, families and couples.Counselling sessions can take place face-to-face, via Skype, by email or over the phone.Counsellors encourage you to find your own solutions, rather than telling you what to do.PsychologistPsychology is effectively the study of the way people think, behave and interact. Looking at the way the mind works, psychology covers everyday functioning such as learning and remembering. It also covers more complex mental health conditions.Psychologists are normally described as being 'applied' or 'research-oriented'. Those who are 'applied' will use their knowledge in a practical capacity to help patients. Those who are 'research-oriented' will aim to further society’s knowledge of the human mind.To obtain the title of psychologist, an individual would need to gain a degree in psychology. To become a counselling psychologist they will need a degree in psychology and a Doctorate in counselling psychology. Counselling psychologists are a fairly new group of applied psychologists. They blend therapeutic practice with psychological research and theory.Counselling psychologists tend to deal with the same types of issues as counsellors. These include bereavement, trauma and relationship issues. They also take on more serious, long-term issues such as domestic violence and sexual abuse. They will apply their understanding of the medical context and diagnosis of certain mental health problems in these cases.Psychologists can choose to specialise in a certain area of psychology. Many specialise in a particular type of assessment or therapy (for example CBT or neuropsychology).There are many titles within the psychology industry that are restricted by law in the UK. These include:clinical psychologistcounselling psychologisteducational psychologistforensic psychologisthealth psychologistoccupational psychologistpractitioner psychologistregistered psychologistsport and exercise psychologist.This means that anyone with these titles has to be listed with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) by law. Being listed with the HCPC ensures that they have had the relevant training and adhere to a strict code of conduct.Key points about psychologists:They are concerned with all matters of the mind. This includes everyday thought processes and behaviours.The title 'psychologist' on its own means someone has gained a degree in psychology. It is not legally protected.There are certain titles within psychology that are legally protected such as 'clinical psychologist'.Psychologists are often either entirely research-focused or 'applied' (meaning they treat clients).PsychiatristA psychiatrist is someone who has had medical training and has decided to specialise in psychiatry. The term psychiatry refers to the study of mental disorders. This includes their diagnosis, management and prevention. Psychiatrists often work on a broad range of cases alongside an area of expertise and research.Similar to general practice or paediatrics - psychiatry is a medical specialty. This means in order to be a psychiatrist you must train for five years as a doctor. A further two years of 'foundation' jobs is needed before specializing in psychiatry. To become a fully trained psychiatrist it typically takes another four years of dedicated study. There is also an option to specialize further still.Psychiatry builds its knowledge by observing and researching various conditions. A diagnostic system aims to identify clusters of behaviours that occur together - commonly described as syndromes. These are then researched to understand any social, psychological or physical causes, with a view of establishing an effective way of helping.Psychiatrists can work with people of any age. Yet they tend to work with those with more severe conditions and/or those that require medical intervention.Within the specialty of psychiatry, there are a number of sub specialties. Each of these requires a Certificate of Completion of Specialist Training (CCST). Such sub-specialties include:Adult mental illness specialtiesgeneral psychiatryforensic psychiatryold age psychiatrypsychiatry of learning disabilitiespsychotherapy.Children's psychiatrychild and adolescent psychiatry.Normally, your GP (or other healthcare professional) will refer you to see a psychiatrist. However you can make an appointment with a private practice too. A psychiatrist may work on their own or alongside other health professionals (such as occupational therapists or social workers) depending on the circumstances.As psychiatrists have medical training, they are able to do things other mental health professionals can't. For example, a psychiatrist can carry out medical tests (i.e. blood tests and CAT scans). They can also prescribe medication should it be required.Key points about psychiatrists:They have had full medical training and have chosen to specialise in psychiatry.They can choose to specialise further in areas such as forensic psychiatry.They can perform medical examinations and tests.They can prescribe medication.

It varies depending on your choice(s) of hospitals and if you have medical insurance.They are all usually locked down. Meaning you're not able to come and go off the unit for safety reasons.They will do an intake assessment when you arrive unless you've done one over the phone but generally you will have paperwork to fill out, speak with intake staff regarding rules, restrictions, visitation hours if allowed, medical history and usually buddy you up with someone who is knowledgeable of the classes, eating schedule, free time, introduce you to other patients and give you a tour of sorts.You will see various staff members whether Nurses, Psych Aids, Psychologist, Psychiatrist, Case Worker etc.. They all play a role and each patient is unique as is their treatment plan.The first several days will take you time to adjust to your surroundings including other patients who might have an illness that causes them to act out or behave in ways you are unfamiliar with hence causing fear. I know I was fearful upon entering my first time. It can be emotional on many levels. Its ok to feel scared, cry, want to leave or hide away in your room to avoid the unknown. The staff will be there to help you and listen and encourage you to stay, participate and walk through your fear and other emotions. You will adjust in time. Some sooner than others. Its not a race or competition. Treatment is learning about you and your illness and how to be aware of early warning signs, symptoms and how to cope with new skills and tools so you can detour your self from going downward into a spiral of emotions which can lead back to a relapse of sorts.Once you have settled in after a few days you will have a schedule of classes you attend. Some will be lectures. Not all will be centralized on you but surely you might find something you can relate to as well as learn something new. This can be helpful inside the hospital by showing support for another patient or perhaps someone you know outside who has a certain issue. Always keep an open mind. In doing so you're more likely to learn and retain the knowledge .You will have one on one therapy. This might be daily or scheduled certain days. Group therapy will consist of about 10 people pending the number of patients in the hospital. This is when a therapist runs a group on a certain topic or is open. The therapist will direct the group and allow others to speak or give feedback if warranted. It helps to open up and share. Bite the bullet as they say. The sooner you speak up even if only a few words it will make each subsequent time a little easier.Thete will be “Free” time to do whatever activities are available or perhaps they will have a meditation class, Yoga, or exercises. Sometimes you can nap or go read a book or even work on an assignment.It can be frightening if you've never been to a mental health hospital since other people suffer from perhaps more serious illnesses that you don't understand or relate to and its perfectly normal. Remain calm and allow the staff to handle anything that is escalating causing a disturbance to you or anyone else. They are trained to handle episodes other patients have that might be frightening. Your safety is one of their primary concerns. If you feel scared or threatened do not hesitate to speak to a staff member. They will listen.There is always a staff member on the floor keeping tabs on everyone to make sure no one is missing or ill needing help. Staff is ready to talk to you and answer any questions you might have regarding mental health. However they cannot discuss your case with others nor anyone else's with you due to HIIPA.Its a privacy act protecting your records and information as well as other patients.You will stay anywhere from a few days to a week or even a month depending on your progress and need. Insurance plays a role in some hospitals and situations.If you have insurance you need to check out your coverage and then see which hospitals offer mental health services. I also suggest reading reviews about ANY mental health clinic or hospital you are thinking about admitting yourself into for treatment.Do research and investigate all options and see which best suits your specific needs.Your Dr. may or may not prescribe you some medication to help with your anxiety and or depression.There will be limits and restrictions on what you can and cannot bring. Usually they will tell you or if they have a website and page dedicated to items you cannot bring and items whichnsre allowed. Going through these steps and preparing yourself for the stay will help reduce your stress and anxiety. Keep it simple.I have not been in quite a few years but due to some patients having suicidal ideations they will not allow you to keep certain items like razors. Those will be kept for you with other items in some sort of bin which you will check out with a staff member.I suggest leaving valuables at home such as jewelry, money (unless they have a vending machine) then that too will be kept with your personal valuables and given to you when staff is allowed to do so.Your Dr. or therapist and group counselor might give you work to do during a certain time of the day when everyone works on their personal treatment plan assignments or during your free time in the evening.You will have breaks to use the bathroom and get a drink usually in between classes for about 15 minutes give or take a few.Social time is important. You will meet different people of all ages pending on if you're an adult or adolescent. The two age groups are separately housed accordingly. 18 years and over is considered as an Adult.Take advantage of learning as much as you can and follow your treatment plan to the best of your ability.Up in leaving they will have a case worker meet with you and go over your after care plan. This can be where to go for support groups or meetings, continuation with an outside therapist if unable to see the one assigned on hospital. They will help you get things set up prior to you leaving so you have the best aftercare plan possible to succeed in your recovery.Best of everything to you if you admit yourself anywhere for help. That is a HUGE step so do not minimize the fact you are looking into going or seeking outpatient help.You have many options. Do research and as previously mentioned read reviews but also keep an open mind and #1 BE HONEST!!!Best wishes

The purpose of the Oculus Rift is to provide immersive virtual reality although, for now, it and similar devices can only do so in an audio-visual manner.To date, Oculus Rift does not provide body-imagery (you can't see your own legs, hands or any other parts), but we can safely assume that Facebook, the new owner, will incorporate avatar-generation to enable tele-presence in virtual gatherings. In the future, there will likely be integration with haptic suits that will make use of motion control, positional tracking and vibratory sense feedback.This YouTube video is an entertaining demonstration of what is presently possible with Oculus Rift. Notice the excellent simulation of pitch, roll and yaw.So how could Oculus Rift, at its current level of development, be used in healthcare? Let's break down what's happening right now.1. TrainingCould the 3-D, immersive properties of Oculus Rift enhance or substitute for schooling in the medical fields, continuing education and in-service workshops?Truth be told, we don't need to be immersed in VR for most learning situations. There are innovative applications, however, such as this one being employed by the UK for simulating the battlefield care of casualties: Plextek and Dstl use Oculus Rift to create immersive medical training solution for military2. Medical Encounters and ExaminationsI fully agree with Kate Simmons. A good clinician has to frequently use all of his/her senses to evaluate a patient, and not just the audiovisual stimuli that Oculus Rift can provide. Some conditions can be assessed remotely via Tele-Medicine, but we need the tactile sense to determine, say, the warmth, tenderness, size, shape, movability and consistency of a subcutaneous tumor. All such findings may yield useful information in formulating differential diagnoses and a plan of management.3. TherapyAccording to Other Amazing Uses For The Oculus Rift, it can allow amputees with Phantom Limb Syndrome to feel "as though their missing limb is still present and even experience itching sensations and the like. By seeing a virtual recreation of that limb, studies have shown that these patients are better able to come to terms with their loss and adapt their brains accordingly."Researchers in Vienna are studying the utility of Oculus Rift to better train amputees in the frustrating process of learning how to use prosthetics.With respect to the rehabilitation of stroke patients, a 2011 study suggested that they "were more likely to improve their arm strength if they played VR games".Stroke Therapy Gets Boost from Virtual Reality4. SurgeryThere are games that simulate surgery: Surgeon Simulator 2013 adds support for Oculus Rift, Razer Hydra.In professional surgery, however, I expect that the use of Oculus Rift will be virtually non-existent (pun intended) because numerous hospitals already have specialized and more sophisticated Surgery simulators in use, some with the capability of receiving 3-D input from CT and MRI scans. The first virtual surgery (where actual surgery followed the virtual practice) was performed in Nova Scotia on August 17, 2009 when Dr. David Clarke removed a brain tumor 24 hours after removing a simulated tumor. Remote surgery by satellite uplink is also currently possible.The da Vinci Surgical System shown below) is now a very common robotic device in U.S. hospitals, providing surgeons with superior visualization, enhanced dexterity, greater precision and ergonomic comfort. It can be used for surgical simulation but, interestingly, the use of simulators has its limitations when used to train novices, in that their effectiveness diminishes as the procedure is repeated. In other words, students reach a learning plateau.5. Mental HealthExposure Therapy is being investigated in the treatment of phobias and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. For example, a patient can be made to experience "driving a Humvee down a desert road or mountain pass or even re-creating an IED explosion or insurgent attack. By pacing the exposure in a much more controlled fashion and in a way that engages the user, clinicians can control the progression of therapy. Studies have shown that VRT is effective in significantly reducing PTSD symptoms and studies are currently underway to compare its effectiveness with more traditional approaches."6. AutismVR appears to help autistic children to "learn social cues, fine-tune motor skills, or experiment with real-world lessons like waiting until it's safe to cross the street.One reason behind the treatment's efficacy could be that children with autism interact well with technology, specifically virtual reality" (VR is infinitely patient according to Justine Cassell, director of Northwestern University’s Center for Technology and Social Behavior).7. Palliative CareOculus Rift may provide the permanently disabled and the terminally ill with the opportunity to once again experience a degree of normality.Virtual Reality Just Granted This Dying Woman Her Heartbreaking Final WishIn summary, the current healthcare applications of Oculus Rift are still limited but are increasing, and further technological advancement may allow even more novel uses.However, as noted by Dr. Carl Rizzo, clinical psychologist at the University of Southern California's Institute for Creative Technologies, there's "nothing magic about virtual reality, it doesn't fix anybody. It's simply a tool that a well trained clinician uses to extend their skills and have more impact on patients when it's called for."Thanks for the A2A, Kate!This answer was posted on Forbes: How Can The Oculus Rift Be Used For Healthcare?