Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de l’Ouest-de-l’Île-de-Montréal
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Treatment and medication

Aside from helping with disorders, does cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) help improve creativity?

I am not aware if CBT has been used in that context. I would just keep reading, going to school, listening to creative people and learning. I don't think you need psychotherapy to be creative.

On the other hand, if a problem interferes with your creativity because you are too busy worrying, there might be a benefit. For example, one of the problems with depression is that people ruminate too much. This takes up a lot of mental energy. With cognitive behavioural therapy you help people move away from rumination and focus on things that are more satisfying.

-Joseph Rochford, PhD, Mini-Psych School 2006

What can you say about the importance of spirituality in the recovery from mental illness and health in general?

If you had asked me this question 25 years ago, I would have given you a completely different answer. I see spirituality as being an alternative form of support, comfort, and solace; and, if a person feels it helps them, then they should of course continue doing it.

-Joseph Rochford, PhD, Mini-Psych School 2009

How do you approach a teen who refuses to get help and denies having symptoms?

This question is always very relevant, as the first discussion with teens is the most difficult. As a therapist, I meet teens who come to my office and refuse to speak, while others shout or refuse to come in. However, there are some who don't want to leave once they arrive. Each case is different. I talk to them a lot, and I think this is the best way to regulate the conversation, to truly connect with them and to get them to express themselves. Direct contact is also helpful, especially for boys on the waiting list who do not want to come for treatment. In this case, I pick up the phone and call. You need to "shake things up" a bit to form a bond with them. Unfortunately, this is not always possible, and you have to wait until things are really going badly until you can help them.
-Johanne Renaud, MD, Mini-Psych School 2010

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