What is a Psychological Disorder?

A psychological disorder is a condition characterized by abnormal thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. The term can be used interchangeably with mental disorder, psychiatric disorder or mental illness. These disorders are likely influenced by genes, neurotransmitters, and life experiences. 

What are the Types?

• • Anxiety Disorder – An anxiety disorder can influence fear or stress amongst individuals, causing them to avoid specific situations.Types of this disorder include generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, specific phobias, agoraphobia, social anxiety disorder, and separation anxiety disorder.

  • Bipolar Disorder –  Bipolar disorder is a brain disorder that causes unusual shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, and the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks. Types of this disorder include Bipolar I Disorder, Bipolar II Disorder, and Cyclothymic Disorder.

  • Depressive Disorder – Depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness, loneliness, worthlessness, and loss of interest. Depression can affect how a person feels, thinks, and behaves during their day-to-day activities, and can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems.

  • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder – Obsessive compulsive disorder, or OCD, is an anxiety disorder in which a person has recurring, unwanted thoughts, ideas, or obsessions that make them feel driven to compulsion. The repetitive behaviors can interfere with daily activities and social interactions.

  • Eating Disorder – An eating disorder is an illness in which a person experiences severe disturbances in their eating behaviors and related thoughts and emotions. Those with eating disorders typically acquire low self-esteem and obsess about food and their weight. Types of this disorder include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder.

  • Personality Disorders – Personality disorders are long-term patterns of behavior and inner experiences that differs significantly from what is expected. These disorders can affect the way one thinks about oneself and others, the way one responds emotionally, and the way one controls their behavior. Types include borderline personality disorder, antisocial personality disorder, and others.

  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder – Post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, is a mental health condition that is influenced by a terrifying event; either from experiencing it or witnessing it. Symptoms of PTSD may include flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety, as well as uncontrollable thoughts about the event. 

• • Schizophrenia – Schizophrenia is a chronic brain disorder that causes a range of symptoms including hallucinations, trouble with thinking and concentration, and lack of motivation. When active, a person is unable to distinguish between real and unreal experiences.

  • Schizoaffective Disorders – Schizoaffective disorder is a mental health condition characterized by symptoms of both schizophrenia and a mood disorder, like bipolar disorder, such as hallucinations or delusions, and mania or depression.

Psychological Evaluations for Children in The Woodlands

The type and intensity of a psychological disorder can widely vary according to child. Therefore, proper assessment and evaluation of the child and their potential psychological disorder is necessary in order to implement an appropriate treatment plan. 

Geo-Anna Q. Hirshenbaum PhD, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, provides extensive psychological evaluations in The Woodlands, Texas for children. Through careful analysis, Dr. Hirshenbaum’s assessment process allows for diagnostic clarity and individualized recommendations to move forward in pinpointing issues of distress, planning effective treatment, and reaching personal goals.

Psychological Evaluations for Adults in The Woodlands 

Just like children, adults can be diagnosed with a psychological disorder, too. In fact, most disorders are recognized and treated during the early stages of adulthood. Typically, adults possess similar signs and symptoms of a psychological disorder that may inhibit day-to-day activities. 

Dr. Hirshenbaum provides extensive psychological evaluations in The Woodlands, Texas for adults. Along with the psychological evaluation, she offers extensive recommendations and referrals for continuing treatment to reach one’s ultimate success.

Psychological Evaluations for Geriatric (Elderly) Population in The Woodlands 

Dr. Hirshenbaum also provides extensive psychological evaluations in The Woodlands, Texas for geriatric (elderly) patients. Along with the psychological evaluation, she offers extensive recommendations and referrals for continuing treatment to reach one’s ultimate success.