How many times over the past few years have we heard about a mass shooting?What follows is a media frenzy over identifying the culprit: an isolated, delusional young man with mental illness. This time around it’s Germanwings co-pilot Andreas Lubitz, who prosecutors believe deliberately slammed the Airbus A320 he was flying from Barcelona to Duesseldorf into a mountain in the French Alps last Tuesday, killing all 150 passengers that were on board. Call me a skeptic, but I think it’s all to easy to blame a dead person with a past history of mental illness for this tragedy. It’s much harder to take a long hard look at how we as a society perceive mental illness and take responsibility for creating an environment in which mental health treatment is often inaccessible, and even if it is available it is likely not to be utilized because one has to hide mental illness and fear getting diagnosed and treated because of stigma and the negative implications it may have on ones career and relationships. According to APA Executive Director Dr. Katherine Noral, while research shows that investing in prevention-oriented programs can reduce mental illness and improve health, too few of these programs get the attention and the funding they deserve. The media headlines today scream “Germanwings co-pilot was treated for suicidal tendencies,” “received lengthy psychotherapy before receiving his pilot's license,” and “was prescribed antidepressants”. What do these headlines do? Create stigma. Just because one has a history of depression and suicidal ideation does not mean one is going to take down a plane with 149 people on board. Depression is the “common cold” of mental illness and while often kept secret because of stigma, it’s likely that some men and women who have fought for our country overseas, your co- worker, neighbor, or perhaps a family member at one time or another experienced depressive symptoms (which include suicidal ideation) and may have even been treated for it with antidepressants or self medicated using drugs and alcohol. While we still have a long journey ahead of us, fortunately there are some changes in the right direction. Alarmed by the steady increase in suicides over the past decade, military officials in recent years beefed up the number of programs and behavioral health specialists available for troops. Most recently in November of 2014, an event titled “Let’s Talk Solutions for the Future of mental Health” at the National Press Club brought together psychologists, journalists, scholars, veterans and advocates to discuss solutions in three areas: how to improve and increase mental health services for underserved and minority communities, how to improve care for veterans, and how to reduce stigma about mental illness. Also notable is the Chicago School of professional psychology that recently hosted an event titled “No Health Without Mental Health” that reviewed the latest research on prevention and treatment of mental illness, and their upcoming event on April 30th “Inside the Minds Studio,” is a thought leadership event addressing the intersection of the mental health profession and issues faced by veterans, military personnel, and their families. I am currently working with a few of my colleagues on facilitating a government program in the community titled Media Smart Youth, aimed at empowering young people to develop awareness and critical thinking skills about the media’s role in influencing their choices (steering them towards foods high in fat, sugar and salt), and build skills to help them make healthy choices with relation to their minds and their bodies. Perhaps my next undertaking will be facilitating a program aimed at empowering people to develop awareness and critical thinking skills about the media’s role in creating and promoting a stigma associated with mental health. The journey began but we have a long road ahead. http://www.cbsnews.com/news/did-germanwings-pilot-use-crash-to-commit-suicide/

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders defines a depressed person as experiencing feelings of sadness, helplessness and hopelessness. The exact numbers of people who have severe depression are not known but estimates indicate that about 12 million adults in the US have depression. Depression cuts across all barriers and affects all races, cultures and social classes. The encouraging news is that it may be successfully treated. Depression Diagnosis and Treatment Options Depression is not a personal weakness or a condition that can be willed or wished away, but with the support of a health care professional, family and friends along with variety of depression treatment options, such as prescription medication and psychotherapy, depression sufferers can begin to cope and understand their disorder. Only a professional health care provider can determine the appropriate option to treat each individual case of depression. Depression Counseling Depression therapy or Psychotherapy has shown to be very effective for people with some forms of depression. Like all treatment options, psychotherapy can be used alone or in combination with medication or other treatments. Depression therapy can help to reduce depression symptoms by challenging and reversing negative beliefs and attitudes as well as help facilitate the resolution of role disputes and assist clients in overcoming problems with social skills and other interpersonal factors that may impact the development of depression. Psychologist for Depression Though speaking to family and friends can be beneficial to a person suffering with depression there are cases in which a depression therapist can better help through greater knowledge of the disorder and complete options for treatment. Dr. Lisa Saponaro of Plantation Florida is a depression expert offering support and practical feedback in order to assist her clients in resolving both current and long term issues. Dr. Saponaro utilizes techniques that have been proven to be effective with specific issues including depression which include both conventional and alternative approaches., Dr. Saponaro provides the highest level of support while working with each client to help him or her build on their strengths and to identify and achieve optimal mental health and methods for living a more balanced life. Understanding our strengths and weaknesses is the first step toward making meaningful changes. Take a free screening below to identify your areas of growth. Mental Health Assessment Depression Test Bipolar Depression Test

Though Trauma disorders are most often associated with war and war is definitely traumatic, there are other events that can have the same effect on people. Verbal, emotional, physical or sexual abuse, neglect, being the victim of or witnessing a violent crime, domestic violence, responding to a horrific emergency call, war, natural disasters, and car accidents are some examples of traumatic events. These events can have an effect on the brain that is physiological. Trauma survivors often experience both intense emotions as well as physical manifestations. Some of these feelings can include feeling numb or shut-off, depression counselling , suicidal thoughts, anxiety counselling therapy , fear, rapid pulse, foggy headed, chest tightness and more. A trauma therapist can effectively integrate all aspects of the individual such as upbringing, gender, values, sexual orientation and socioeconomic status for a wholesome recovery. Trauma Survivors It is difficult to say exactly why one person is able to cope with tragedy and another struggles. It is not weakness but often a matter of support. Having a supportive network of friends, family or a community who understand you when you are in need and who come together to support one another can positively impact the ability to cope. Having a calm, naturally positive type of temperament is another factor that makes a person more resilient than others. It is important to recognize that when in danger individuals may react similarly but their trauma responses will be unique them and they are the only ones who can define how it affects them. Processing a traumatic event can help the transition from the victim experience to identifying as a survivor. The transition period will differ from individual to individual but having a support network is essential, engaging in self-care, self-compassion and healthy and fulfilling interpersonal relationships can also positively impact a survivor’s recovery and find opportunities for post traumatic growth. Trauma Treatment For those suffering from the effects of a trauma, therapy can help. Trauma counselling therapy can help individuals to deal with the way trauma has changed their emotional responses and how these altered responses impact behavior. A traumatic experience can impact a person’s mental, behavioral, emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being. Through therapy they can learn how to reduce the negative emotional and/or physical aspects of post-traumatic stress to provide more comfort. Therapy also provides a safe space for the survivor to identify triggers and acquire coping skills to manage symptoms. Individuals also have the opportunity to discuss the trauma as well as allow themselves to fully grieve. Once grieving occurs, many people need to start the work of learning how to be a part of the world again. The payoff of therapy is that people are no longer victims to the experiences that caused them to seek therapy and feel empowered to live their life. Those who have had positive experiences with trauma therapy attest the hard work is very much worth the outcome. Trauma Therapist South Florida Lisa Saponaro is a Florida licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years’ experience as a mental health practitioner. Among her areas of expertise are: depression, anxiety, trauma resolution, substance abuse, parental counselling therapy , family counselling therapy , child therapist for emotional problems, LGBTQ+ issues, career development, ADHD testing , and diagnostics and testing. Dr. Saponaro utilizes techniques that have been proven to be effective. She incorporates a blend of conventional and alternative approaches, drawing upon a variety of styles and techniques to provide what will be most helpful for each client while being culturally sensitive.

Approximately one out of every two marriages today ends in divorce and a large portion of these families include children. Divorce can be traumatic to children creating intense emotions that cause conflicted feelings towards each of the parents. Children can feel fearful, confused, insecure, vulnerable, depressed, angry and overwhelmed. Children may act out by getting into more trouble, disrespecting others, displaying disobedience, and becoming angry. They may also act inwardly by developing excessive anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and isolation. Children do best when parents can cooperate on behalf of the child and do not display aggression towards each other or use negative language towards the other parent in front of the children. Children are usually better off if they can have regular contact with both parents in addition to having as stable a home environment as possible. Counseling can help both the divorcing parents and the children within the family to cope with the changing dynamics. By seeking the help of a professional child therapist who specializes in divorce, children can learn to cope with divorce, allowing them to express their own feelings about this event. Divorce therapy for children provides the support children need in order to express their emotions in safe, non-abusive, non self-destructive manner. Children usually need to be taught how to cope and how to express emotions in a safe way. Dr. Lisa Saponaro specializes in Family Mediation, with more than a decade of experience working with children and families, she is able to facilitate all steps of a marital dissolution, particularly the factors related to co-parenting. The focus and commitment should remain on the children providing the common ground necessary in order to create a successful parenting plan. Effective October 1, 2008, Florida statutes require that all parties filing for divorce complete a parenting plan. According to the statutes (Ch. 2008-61 section 13), “Parenting plan means a document created to govern the relationship between the parties relating to the decisions that must be made regarding the minor child and shall contain a time-sharing schedule for the parents and child. By no means is divorce easy on any of the family members who are involved but divorce counseling can make coping easier and enable children to release the mass of emotions felt during divorce for health and well being. Dr. Saponaro involves children’s relevant support systems into treatment and works with parents to find the common ground necessary to parent effectively. Dr. Saponaro’s strength is ability to help identify and prioritize the needs of the children while still respecting the process of the adults involved.

Divorce can be a very stressful event and can cause a lot of emotional confusion. Family, group or individual therapy can help a child cope with the stress of parental separation and work through the multiple feelings that they themselves experience as a child of divorcing parents. Through communication with a therapist children are given hope and guidance through this difficult time. Children can come to understand that their parents divorce is not by any means their fault and that they are still loved and cared for by both of their parents. Children who have divorced parents and have participated in therapy have a decreased chance of experiencing their own relationship issues. When a marriage ends and divorce is chosen divorce counseling is available to help couples work towards a peaceful and respectful separation. When children are involved, their needs are the main focus. Florida statutes require that all parties filing for divorce complete a parenting plan. A parenting plan is a document created to govern the relationship between the parents relating to the decisions that must be made regarding the children in the relationship. A child’s education, health care, physical, social, and emotional well-being are to be considered and cared for by both parents through shared time schedules. The parenting plan shall be developed and agreed to by the parents and approved by the court or, if the parents can not agree, established by the court. It is simply a set plan created in the best interest of the child to ensure that all of their needs are met for health and safety. Children can easily feel overwhelmed and are very vulnerable during parental seperation or marriage dissolution. This is why a therapist that works with children should have experience with family counseling and be able to provide the trusting, comfortable atmosphere that a child requires to work through their own feelings of anger, sadness or even fear. Dr. Lisa Saponaro specializes in individual, couples and family therapy in South Florida and can help families who are going through or contemplating divorce in South Florida. She has the compassion for children that can help them to heal during this difficult event.

Just yesterday the news of of the tragic loss of a treasured Hollywood star, Robin Williams, hit the headlines. Sadly, it appears that the 63 year old comedian and actor took his own life. Robin Williams has been open about his diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder, not only as a source of pain, but also as a source of inspiration. He has been reported to have used his depressive and manic episodes as catalysts for his creative genius. Too often our headlines are littered with the news that a beloved, respected and well known celebrity has committed suicide, often leaving a wake of disbelief, grief and wondering of what more could have been done. But what about what is left off of the headlines? The Center for Disease Control reports that suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in individuals 10 years of age and older. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness it is the 3rd leading cause of death among youth aged 15-24. Over 90 percent of people who commit suicide have been diagnosed with mental illness commonly including depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, anxiety disorders and eating disorders. Substance abuse and addiction are also associated with an increased risk of suicide. While mental illness may be a risk factor, by no means is it a death sentence. While there may be no cure for mental illness, every mental illness is treatable and can be managed into complete remission. With strong support, appropriate treatment and time Suicide is 100% preventable. Lisa Saponaro, Ph.D. is committed to increasing awareness of suicide prevention through education, assessment and treatment of the underlying emotions, thoughts and beliefs that may increase suicide risk. You too can do your part by becoming educated about the warning signs and actions to take if you suspect a loved one may be a risk for suicide. Warning signs may include, but are not limited to: Talking about death and dying Giving away personal belonging Speaking about meeting or being with someone who has died Expressions of powerlessness or hopelessness Isolation from friends and family Sudden termination of psychotherapy, pharmacological treatment or other wellness activities. Increase in drug and/or alcohol use Increase in the severity and/ or frequency of self-injurious behaviors and/or high risk behaviors. Here are some considerations in joining the fight for Suicide Prevention: If you suspect a friend of love one may be suicidal – don’t be afraid to ask “Are you suicidal?” While many report concerns with discussing suicide with a love one leading to suicide, there is no such effect and in fact more often leads to needed help. The most loving act you can do for a loved one you suspect may be suicidal is to encourage them to get help. Encourage them to call 911, go to your nearest emergency room or utilize a suicide hotline such as 1 (800) 273-TALK (8255) from the American Association of Suicidology. An individual who is suicidal is likely to be experiencing a profound sense of hopelessness, powerlessness and loneliness. Efforts to connect your loved one to help show that there is a way out and that they are NOT ALONE. Never forget that there is always, always ALWAYS someone and more likely many people who are waiting, willing and motivated to help and carve a path out of the darkness. Dr. Saponaro is a licensed psychologist providing mental health services to the local south florida area with a practice located at: 120 S. University Drive, Suite A Plantation, FL 33324 It has been said that suicide is a permanent solution for a temporary problem. We may never know the profound distress that lead Robin Williams to take his own life, but we can learn from this tragedy, grieve, and then march forward in the fight for Suicide Prevention. Rest in peace, Mr. Williams, and thank you for the laughs.

Bipolar Disorder is often misunderstood by those who have no affiliation with this mood disorder; however for those living with Bipolar Disorder it is a daily conflict with extreme mood swings that can range from a euphoric high to a painfully low feeling of emotion. Many people confuse Bipolar Disorder with Depression. Those suffering from Depression differ from Bipolar Disorder. To be diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder you must experience both Bipolar Depression as well as experience Mania or Hypomania, which are periods of extreme highs that lead a person to be overly talkative, impressive and have an unusual abundance of energy. Some of the symptoms of bipolar depression include: Sadness Feelings of worthlessness Losing interest in things and activities you once enjoyed Being overcome by feelings of guilt, failure, and hopelessness Becoming sad and unable to concentrate, remember things, or even make simple decisions Experiencing physiological changes like differences in appetite or weight, energy levels, and sleep schedules Possibly thinking about death or suicide, in extreme cases Symptoms of bipolar mania include: Feeling unusually great and launching into several new projects at once Sleeping a lot less, acting more fidgety, and talking much more Mixing up thoughts and being easily distracted Taking unnecessary risks Going to extremes sexually, financially, and socially Racing thoughts Bipolar Disorder Treatment Many people with bipolar disorder are able to manage their symptoms. Feeling better often involves a combination of education, medication, and therapy. Learning about Bipolar Disorder can help a person to learn coping techniques and better understand how to live with Bipolar Disorder and how psychotherapy in conjunction with medicine can result in improved mental health and well-being. Talk Therapy or Psychotherapy is a beneficial tool for treating Bipolar Disorder. Depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, anger, past trauma, career difficulties, and life and spiritual crises can all be effectively improved with psychotherapy. Many types of medications are used effectively to treat bipolar disorder. A health care professional can work with those diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder and develop a treatment plan specifically for them, it's important to follow the plan carefully. Speaking to your health care professional informs him or her about exactly how you are feeling can adjust your treatment adjusted, if needed for maximum benefit. Some of the goals of bipolar disorder treatment Reduce symptoms of depressive episodes Reduce symptoms of manic episodes Reduce the likelihood of future episodes/relapse Reduce the severity of the disease Provide assistance and support to patients and family Dr. Lisa Saponaro specializes in individual, couples and family psychotherapy and psychological testing. With over twelve years of experience as a mental health practitioner she incorporates techniques that have been proven to be effective with specific issues such as Bipolar Disorder. She maintains a private practice in her home town of Plantation, Florida providing people from multiple areas of Southern Florida with professional therapy services. Understanding our strengths and weaknesses is the first step toward making meaningful changes. Take a free screening below to identify your areas of growth. Mental Health Assessment Depression Test Bipolar Depression Test

Mindfulness is about being intentionally grounded in the present moment, allowing yourself to manage one moment at a time, helping you place full attention to the here and now. Although the effects of mindfulness impact each person differently, for many, it allows them to address life stressors in a calmer, intentional way and improves their quality of life. For more information, click on the links below: The 7 Most Inspirational Mindfulness Ted Talks Psychology Today on Mindfulness Example scripts for mindfulness practice at the Center for Koru Mindfulness Our mindfulness group will teach participants mindfulness meditation techniques that can be particularly helpful in managing stress and anxiety. Group schedule and format Mindfulness group will run for 12 weeks. Groups will take place on Fridays from 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm. First group to start on May 6th, 2016. Groups consist of a brief educational piece related to mindfulness, followed by discussion and practice of mindfulness skills. Connect with individuals who share your struggles, fears, and interests in these weekly group therapy sessions. Cost $45 each session, pay as you go $40 each session, pay for 4 sessions at a time $35 each session, pay for the full 12-session course. Contact Us Some insurance companies are accepted. Call us at (954) 577-0095 for more information about the groups.

Understanding our strengths and weaknesses is the first step toward making meaningful changes. Take a free screening below to identify your areas of growth.