Behavioral Problems

Behavioral problems include a wide variety of problem areas.  In this section I have focused on the behavior problems which are most pervasive and about which my clients most frequently ask for help.

Adjustment Problems: If you have recently experienced a stressful event and your standard adjustment techniques are not working effectively, you may have an adjustment disorder. A person with an adjustment disorder often experiences feelings of depression and/or anxiety that hang on and disrupt their ability to function normally.  Adjustment disorders can occur at any age but people are particularly vulnerable during normal transitional periods such as adolescence, mid-life, and late life.

Sleep problems of a chronic and long-term nature affect more than 40 million Americans each year and an additional 20 million experience occasional sleeping problems.  These sleep disorders and the resulting sleep deprivation interfere with work, social activities, and personal life. Most sleep disorders can be managed effectively once they are correctly diagnosed.

Hypochondria has several characteristics: fear of being diseased or of dying; obsessions over minor bodily symptoms or imperfections; doubt and disbelief in doctors' diagnosis; constant self-examination and self-diagnosis; and preoccupation with one's body.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is a pattern of thoughts and behaviors that is characterized by repeated, intrusive and unwanted thoughts (obsessions) that cause anxiety and by ritualized behaviors (compulsions) that are designed to try to relieve anxiety.  The obsessions and/or compulsions are usually so strong that they cause significant distress in many areas of the person’s life.  

Performance anxiety is a disruptive level of anxiety that can develop in any situation where you have to perform an activity. Performance anxiety can occurs in a variety of public and private situations including sports, acting, singing and musical presentations, test taking, public speaking, and sexual intimacy. 

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder develops after an extremely emotional experience that involved physical harm or the threat of physical harm. The person who develops Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) may have been the one who was harmed, the harm may have happened to a loved one, or the person may have witnessed a harmful event that happened to a loved one or to a stranger.

"If you really want help dealing with your feelings and emotions, changing your behavior, and improving your life, I will be happy to help you.  I am available almost any time and any place.  You can call me directly and there is no cost or obligation for the initial telephone consultation.  Or you can reach me by email.  I look forward to the possibility of helping you to improve your life."   Dr. Vince Berger