Your Mind Thinks its an Expert (or Calling Dr. Rutherford)

You’ve probably noticed this already, but our minds have something to say on most topics. Some of this is pretty minor: “That iced tea looks refreshing!” In other cases our minds dole out expert opinions. We become: Critics of modern art: “My three-year-old could draw that!” Experts on gastronomy (i.e., food): “Why would anyone pay … Read more

Are Antipsychotic Medications a Helpful Adjunct for Treating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?

Among people with whom I work, a practice that’s grown more common in the last few years but with iffy research support is the addition of an antipsychotic medication when an antidepressant medication doesn’t seem to be working. This is done in an attempt to augment the effect of the antidepressant. The practice concerns me … Read more

Psychotherapy vs. Medication for OCD – Which is More Effective?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a serious and disabling problem for many people. Understandably, many people seek out medication to help with this problem, and research is shown that medication can be helpful some people. However, research is also very clear that particular proven forms of psychotherapy work much better than medication for OCD. A newly … Read more

A Call for More Services for Families with Loved Ones with Serious Mental Illness

With all the talk about healthcare reform and budget cuts to healthcare programs, my colleague, Jerome Yoman, PhD, and I were inspired to write an editorial about the need for more family services for The Oregonian, our local newspaper. We just found out that the editorial was published in the April 10, 2012 edition! You … Read more

Research graveyard may come to life

“If enough data is collected, anything may be proven by statistical methods” — Williams and Holland’s Law It’s an amazing day for scientific research! Hold on, don’t leave me yet. I know I typically try to post things here that are inspiring or at the very least interesting and directly applicable to your everyday life. … Read more

What Makes Us Unique

Portland Psychotherapy is a clinic, research & training center with a unique business model that funds scientific research. This results in a team of therapists who are exceptionally well-trained and knowledgeable about their areas of specialty.