Author: Dominick Flarey

Crisis Intervention Training

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Crisis Education

Online courses are an excellent way to learn Crisis Intervention. Depending on the type of training you want to achieve you will want to search for an accredited program that focuses on your specialty. Crisis intervention training can be specialized towards non – violent or violent types of crisis’ and can be utilized in several different professionals including; law enforcement, health care providers, educational professionals or medical providers. Online training uses several different formats of instruction to teach the student the techniques and methods used in modern crisis intervention. Most of the guidelines for these certifications are determined through state and local organizations, and pertain to specific careers. Course time-frames can range from a daylong event to several months long. The time-frame normally depends on the guidelines of the state laws. Areas of the training can be for early prevention of crisis escalation, for more immediate threats or both depending on the situation and how it relates to the career field utilizing the training. Please make sure to review what crisis intervention training your guidelines mandate before choosing a program.

Stress Management to avoid Burn Out

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Are You Experiencing Burn Out?

Chronic stress may lead to a condition of “burn out.” Burn out is a condition in which one develops a syndrome of chronic tiredness, hyper-arousal, a distaste for going to work, and feelings of apathy and anxiety. The problem is frequently identified in instances where professionals are under extreme stress in the workplace. Burn out is very often tied to the workplace. It is interesting to note that those with Type A personalities and those who are somewhat neurotic in their thinking, have much higher instances of burn out than those who do not have these personality traits. Personality traits are almost impossible to change in people. They are deeply ingrained and many years of psychotherapy would be required to successfully change such traits. So how can we help those workers with Type A and neurotic personalities deal with burn out? One key to helping these individuals is to provide them with opportunities to attend stress management training programs. Such programs teach the participants many effective strategies that will assist them to handle stress much better. When they are better able to handle stressors, their risk of developing a burn out condition will significantly decrease. Stress management is a healthy and effective solution to preventing burn out.

Can Case Management Professionals and Insurers Work Together?

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Case Management

We are witnessing a growing trend in health care delivery. Providers of health care and insurers are starting to work together more closely to improve the quality of care and hold down unnecessary costs. This is not totally new as such processes have been in place for a long while through nursing case management systems, albeit sometimes in adversarial postures. What is new is that executives are finally understanding better the need for collaboration and cooperation in the delivery of care. This article is an example and provides promising insights.
By: REED ABELSON
The New York Times
Access article: click here
To learn more about case management certification programs, click here.

How Nutrition and Attention Deficit Disorder are Linked

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Nutrition is extremely important for the body for a number of different reasons. It’s even been shown that individuals can improve their attention deficit disorder symptoms by eating the right foods and taking the proper supplements. When the body is balanced with the proper vitamins and nutrients, it’s able to function much better. There are a lot of different supplements you can try out if you’re interested in seeing if they are effective.

How Nutrition and Attention Deficit Disorder are Linked

Types of Supplements to Consider Trying out.
Fish oil is a supplement that is easy to find and it’s affordable. It comes in pill form, but there is also raw form that is liquid. You could also choose to just eat more fish each day if you want to avoid supplements. Fish oil has essential omega-3 fatty acids that are extremely good for the body. The acids are good for the brain, which is why they have been shown effective for ADHD. Fish oil is also really good for the heart and can help reduce chances of heart disease developing.
Lithium is a common element that is also used for many people who suffer from ADHD. In addition to being used for this, it’s also used for a lot of different mental problems. These include illnesses like epilepsy and Grave’s Disease. Trace amounts of lithium are found inside of most rocks, which is where it got the name from. It works with a lot of growth factors and hormones in the body. This is why it’s effective for so many people.
Zinc is another essential element that is good for the body. It can do a wide variety of things, including relieve diarrhea and cure the common cold. This element boosts the immune system and promotes proper growth in the body. Lack of zinc can end up causing a lot of health problems, which is why it’s so important to maintain proper levels of it. Many people use this to help relieve symptoms of ADHD and there is evidence to support claims.
There are a wide variety of other supplements that people have found effective for their ADHD. Although there isn’t enough evidence to support them being promoted as cures; there are some people that have been able to use to use them effectively. Not all results turn out the same, each person is different. Some other supplements and vitamins people use include: Deanol, flaxseed oil, ginseng, magnesium, melatonin, vitamin c and many others. It’s very important to speak with a doctor before you start taking any supplements.
What Type of Diet to Start?
If you aren’t eating healthy, your brain isn’t going to function properly. Healthy foods are full of pure forms of vitamins and nutrients, which will be delivered to all areas in the body that need them. Insufficiency from a bad diet can cause a wide variety of health problems for people of all ages. A lot of people have found that when they change their diet they feel better, lose weight and don’t suffer from all the usual symptoms of ADHD. The brain is able to function more efficiently when it’s not filled up from a bunch of toxins that are in unhealthy foods.
Nutrition and attention deficit disorder go hand in hand. Many people have been able to stop taking medication for this condition as a result of changing their diet. Results are always different depending on the person and their exact disorder, but it’s worth trying out. There is no harm in eating healthier and getting more nutrients in your everyday diet. Your body is going to perform better, you have more energy and you will think more clearly as well! Good nutrition is something that can benefit adults and even children who have ADHD.

A child doing a karate move.
This child obvious does not want to partake in a healthy diet!

One of the easiest things you can do is swap out your simple carbohydrates (pasta, rice, bread) for raw or lightly cooked vegetables. These are packed full of healthy nutrients that your body and brain are going to really love. Those fatty and fried foods you might be currently eating are just filling you up with toxins. Your ADHD symptoms might actually get worse when you eat really unhealthy foods. It’s also important to eat grains, fruits and calcium to keep the body healthy.
For more information on Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder please visit our site.

What Is Transcendental Meditation?

Posted on by Dominick Flarey
A man floating in a bubble with space as a background
Transcendental meditation can take you wherever your mind is willing to lead.

You may have at one time or another have asked yourself what is transcendental meditation and failed to get a comprehensive and right answer. Well, here is the answer. This is an effortless and natural procedure that is practiced for around twenty minutes on a daily basis with the eyes closed while one is comfortably seated. Research has shown that this is one of the most widely and also one of the most effective methods that anyone can use for self improvement. It has benefits that are gained through a self healing natural process that releases stress when a person practices.

What Is Transcendental Meditation?

This meditation technique is one of a kind. So far, it is the only technique that has over 500 studies that are all independent and that seek to support it’s claims. Researchers carried the research in over 200 different research institutes and universities in over 33 countries. Results of this research have been published in more than 100 respected journals worldwide including the Scientific American Journal and also the American Journal of Psychology. One of the main strengths of this meditation technique is the fact that it involves no belief system of any kind. In fact, those who believe that this meditation technique cannot work are the ones who are most encouraged to try it out.
It allows the mind to settle in a state that it is beyond thought so as to experience thought which is pure awareness or otherwise known as transcendental consciousness. Research has actually proven that this is the most peaceful and silent level of consciousness whereby one actually connects to his/her inner soul. It is only during this state of mental alertness that the brain is able to function with a better and greater coherence while the body gains deep rest. Those who are successful with it just make sure that they create a state of restful alertness where they remain very aware but the body and mind remain in a very deep state.
This state of brainwave activity represents a state of consciousness which is totally different from walking, dreaming, all states of dreaming and also waking up. Through this technique, the body benefits a lot. Researchers believe that the body is actually replenished therefore making it very easy for it to derive all the benefits. Around the world, it is believed that over 5 million people have learned this natural and simple technique. The funny thing is that contrary to what many of us might think, it is all the different ages and not only one specific age group that know the benefits that this technique comes with.
This technique is based on the Vedic tradition which is a form of enlightenment in India. This tradition was handed over by the Vedic masters from one generation to the other for over a thousand years. About 50 years ago, the man who we can call our present Vedic representative introduced this technique to the world. This came at a time when the world we are living in needs one to have a better and higher experience of consciousness. The best thing with this technique is the fact that the original and the present techniques are just the same because those who teach it do exactly how it was taught thousands of years ago.
This technique got into the limelight few decades back when an Indian student brought it into the United States in 1971. However, it is only after Dev’s (the Vedic representative of our generation) death in 1953 that he became really serious with preaching it. The student first of all became a repulsive monk before spreading it in cities. It slowly and quietly gained acceptance and popularity when people from different countries of the world began to visit Maharishi (the name of the student) in India to learn it.
All said and done, this techniques has and will remain on the front line when all matters related to being of benefit to those who practice it are concerned. Presently, it is one of the most popular and beneficial mind consciousness and alertness techniques and it has gained a lot of reputation and acceptance too from the general public. Many practitioners from different parts of the world have also joined the bandwagon that seeks to make it accessible and known to as many people as possible everywhere in the world.
To learn more about meditation and meditation techniques please go to our webpage.

How a Health Coach Can Make Exercise Fun!

Posted on by Dominick Flarey
Guy on a bike
Exercise can be fun if you make it fun!

Being a health coach means you are the person that gives out the advice that not a lot of people are willing to hear.    Eat this vegetable, not that piece of bacon.   Do this tiring exercise, don’t sit on the couch!   Face it, dieting and exercise is NOT fun.    So how can health care coaches get their clients to enjoy a healthy lifestyle?  Health coaching professionals have come up with several interesting ways.

How a Health Coach Can Make Exercise Fun!

The article, “Bringing the Fun Back to Fitness”, by Chris Powell states

“Let’s be honest: Working out can be monotonous. We go in the gym and hit the same routine every time. After a while, we start to feel like a hamster on a wheel, doing the same thing over and over… and oh yeah, not getting the results we are working for!”

For the full article please go here.

Health Coach advice also does not have to just be about exercise.   You can make eating healthy fun as well.   Simply take your favorite foods and try to improve them.   One simple way is deviled eggs.    Instead of mayo and egg yolks, use hummus.    Health care coaching does not have to be hard, it can be inventive!
For more on health care life coaching please visit our site.

health care coaches, health coach, healthy lifestyle, Health coaching, Health care coaching, health care life coaching

Program in Christian Biblical Counseling: When Patriotism Becomes Nationalism and Virtues becomes Vice

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Memorial Day is Patriotism not Nationalism

The corruption of the social virtue of patriotism is nationalism.  Nationalism is  more than a ethnic group’s deep  yearning to find a homeland, but it is also an elitism that sees a homeland as only for one group.  It is not inclusive but exclusive to difference and ethinic origin.   This is apparent in both cases of Jew and Palestinian.  Both group’s hands are bloody in absolute nationalism.
If one does not realize the inherent dangers of nationalism, one needs to only see the rise of fascist regimes in Europe as Hitler utilized hate as a primary rallying cry to unify a bitter German nation.   This was also the case in Japan during the 1930s, as this tiny island imprisoned the South Pacific under its brutal dictatorship.  Nationalism seeks to poison true patriotism. Memorial Day captures the true essence of patriotism.  It seeks to remember, respect and show pride of one’s country in a healthy, conducive fashion devoid of hate.   Contrary to this, nationalism utilizes hate, vengeance and racism to push forward its social agenda.
These unhealthy ideals lead ultimately to war where good men must take up their arms to defend the defenseless and weak.  As knights, or “great men of the West” (Tolkien), previous generations have taken up the crusuade to defend society from nationsn that were intoxicated by nationalism.  Good men have declared just wars against those who would strive to destroy peace.

Just War: An Oximoron?

During Memorial Day, we commerate a violent past that involves death and war.  But we do not honor the death but the sacrifice and necessity of good men to stand up to tryants.  As stated years ago, evil flourishes when good men do nothing.The invansion of Nazi controlled Normandy is an example of just war, where brave men stand up against the tryanny of evil
Hence is the driving principle behind “Just War Theory”.  As St. Thomas Aquinas pointed out, in regards to defense and the greater good of society, nations may declare war against tyranny that would hope to eradicate justice.  Killing while unfortunate becomes self defense.  The just man does not wish to fight, fighting is the last resort.  The just man does not wish for war or the death of innocents, but ultimately in the end, the just man must take up his sword when called.  This is true bravery and is contrary to pacifisim which in more times than not correlates with cowardice against one’s duty.  Hence a Christian soldier does not contradict the teachings of Christ when he defends virtue and justice in war.
This is one reason why we honor our fallen.  The virtue of bravery or fortitude was instilled upon them to do what needed done against the armies of darkness.
So what is Memorial Day about?

Memorial Day Is About Love, Remembrance and Patriotism

Memorial Day is more than just watching war movies and cooking.  True, watching the Duke take out a small regiment of Nazis by himself or Clint Eastwood ascending to where only eagles may dare is exciting and well worth the time, one must look beyond these stories.  One must also look beyond the mere social event where families come together, cook, and have a nice “cold one” under the Summer  sun.   While swimming pools and and parties are important elements, they mean nothing if one does not understand the primary importance of Memorial Day.  It is a day where society acknowledges the grief of families who have loss their loved ones.  It is day of love and thankfulness to those who served our country so bravely.  Finally it is about true patriotism that goes beyond hate but is about love and mutual respect as an American in a global community.
If you are interested in Christian Counseling themes regarding life, please review the program.
Our Program in Christian Biblical Counseling is also available for qualified professionals who are seeking a certification in Christian Biblical Counseling.  The Program in Christian Biblical Counseling covers core courses that the professional must complete to become certified.

Mark Moran, MA, GC-C, SCC-C

Commeration of Loss: Memorial Day

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Memorial Day Commerates Loss and the Grief Counseling Training Program

While grief strikes down many in this world, healthy recovery and adaptation are common elements in 80 percent of the population.  Commeration is one such healthy practice of adaptation to loss.  Commeration does not seek to hide the loss or escape it but accepts it.  In this acceptance, the loss becomes part of one’s present life story in a healthy way without erasing the previous chapters.
Memorial Day is one such commoration tool that our country uses at a mass social level.  It allows a grateful nation to remember the valor and honor of pass war heroes but also allow families to proudly commerate the loss of their loved ones.
This allows the family to proudly remember and honor their loss loved ones but also allow society to acknowledge the loss they experience and thank them for their loved one’s sacrifice.  This is an extremely therapeutic for the individual and also very helpful at a collective consciousness for the nation.
So today, realize, that while watching John Wayne blast Nazis, or watching Clint Eastwood lead the Dirty Dozen, we are also remembering the grief of loss heroes on a universally social level.
God bless the United States and our fallen heroes, may their souls rest in peace. Amen.
If you are interested in the grief counseling training program, please review the program.

By Mark Moran, MA, GC-C, SCC-C

Theodicy: The Problem of Evil and How to Counsel for Bad Things

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Training for a Christian Counselor: Counseling Against the Problem of Evil

How does a counselor answer the question of a mother who lost her child or explain the horrors of the Holocaust?  How can a counselor explain the explicit existence of evil in the world and at the same time speak of God’s will?  How can a counselor explain that a good and all powerful God would ever allow evil to take place?
These are all probing questions that test one’s faith and also provide a striking point for non-believers to assault theism.  However, the “problem” of the existence of evil is merely lack of understanding than a true problem.
So instead of answering these questions with pithy cliches such as “its God’s will” or “who can understand the nature of God”, I suggest philosophically answering these challenges on why a good God allows evil to exist.

The Theodicy is the philosophical study on the question of evil.  St. Augustine philosophically answered the questions of evil and found peace and balance on how a good God can co-exist in an evil world.  St. Augustine initially had fallen victim to a scandalous and heretical cult that proclaimed good and evil were the results of two clashing divine beings.  Through the prayers of his mother, Monica, he later became a great Church father and tackled the idea of evil from a Christian perspective.  St. Augustine taught that evil was not the result or will of God but a deficiency found in creation.  As darkness is to light, evil was a negation of what God’s goodness.  This deficiency was found in all sentient beings because God created man and angels in his image and likeness.  Part of being a rational creation is the ability to reason and form decisions.  Free will enabled man and angels as beings to fully reflect the image of the creator.
This gift, however, came with a huge gamble; that man and the angels could choose evil.  God in fact knew this and still bestowed this gift to man and angels despite the eventual outcome.  How important and precious is free will then to our nature?  It is so important than God permitted the chance of evil to enter into the world at its expense.  First by Lucifer and his band of followers and then later by Adam and Eve would free will bring death and suffering to mankind.
Yet, despite the evils that were byproducts of bad decisions, God also saw the beauty and goodness that free will would give angels and men to fight evil and do good.  An act of charity, worship of God or rational thought could never be uttered by simple nature, but only by sentient creatures bestowed with God’s gift of free will.  To be able to partake in the divine, we needed choice and through choice came both goodness and evil.
This evil that exists in the world while overbearing also gave man the chance to rise beyond the ashes, do good, and find merit via suffering and good works for the next life.
While some would contend evil mars God’s goodness and omnipotence, I would contend the gift of free outweighs the consequences of those who choose badly.  Through love of God, which is free choice, one can love God and share in his life.  And yet despite this, God still did not allow us to suffer the consequences of evil alone, instead he took upon human flesh and defeated evil on the cross, carrying our sins and teaching us how to suffer.
With such thoughts, pithy sayings while possibly true are not needed.  Nor are there long books about the problem of evil because ultimately the only problem is those who choose wrongly.
If you are interested in Christian Counseling Education, please review the program. If you are interested in training for a Christian Counselor, then this program can help.

By Mark Moran, MA, GC-C, SCC-C

Importance of Stress Management: How Stress Adds Fat

Posted on by Dominick Flarey
two rams standing on tree stumps butting heads
Stick of butting heads with stress? Use these stress management tips!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Like we didn’t need more reasons not to be stressed, but stress can lead to extra fat.   Interested in stress management now?  I know I am.  How stress leads to fat and weight gain is simple; when stressed our bodies go through a number of hormonal changes that effect what we want to eat and how our stomachs digest the food we eat.    For example when stressed we reach for more sugary and fatty foods and our stomach does not do a good job of processing them into energy.   This results in the foods being stored as fat.    Managing stress can stop this!   You can manage stress by following these simple tips:

Importance of Stress Management: How Stress Adds Fat

The article, “How Stress Makes You Fat”, by Lisa Turner states

“A number of studies have shown that stress leads to weight gain, partly by increasing the body’s cravings for sugary carbs and fatty foods.”

For the full article please go here.

Stress management does not have to be difficult.   By eating right, getting adequate sleep and identifying our priorities we can combat stress and prevent un-needed weight gain.
For more on stress management consulting, you might be interested in visiting our site.