There are several pathways to becoming health psychologist; however, those wishing to undergo board certification should consult the American Board of Clinical Health Psychology. There are two lines of graduate programs available: masters and doctoral programs. They include courses in research methods, statistics, introductory and abnormal psychology, pain management, mind-body connection, health care management, stress and illness, physiological psychology, psychopharmacology and several other elective options. Read more →

Schizophrenia treatment has significantly evolved since Nobel Laureate John Nash was initially treated with electro-convulsive therapy (ECT) and insulin coma “therapies” in the 50-60’s — as portrayed in the movie, A Beautiful Mind. Now, the ultimate goals of schizophrenia clinical management are to reduce or eliminate all associated symptoms, improve socio-behavioral functioning, foster reintegration into society, prevent the relapse of psychotic episodes, and treat or prevent (further) co-morbidity. Clinicians employ a combination of pharmacological (neuroleptic) and psychosocial interventions according to the vulnerability-stress-coping model. The first line of coping is usually medicinal options for the suppression of symptoms and control of disturbed behavior. Psychosocial modalities contribute to improve patient insight and compliance, while promoting the development and implementation of personal goals. Read more →

Schizophrenia is a multifaceted disorder that manifests by both genetic and environmental factors. A plethora of twin and adoption studies suggest major genetic influences on the pathogenesis of schizophrenia; however, a MZ concordance of 50% also suggests environmental factors (Cardno et al., 1999). [Note, a concordance of 100%, or absolute probability that both "identical" twins are afflicted or not, would suggest a single gene disorder, as in sickle cell anemia and cystic fibrosis.] These family studies reveal that schizophrenia is a complex genetic disorder, akin to diabetes and most cancers, where not but multiple causative genes contribute to susceptibility — a polygenetic disease. Moreover, there are presumably environmental factors that contribute to the onset. Read more →