Criminal record checks for psychologist registration in Australia. What you need to know.

Psychologists in Australia fall in the healthcare industry field and their activity is governed by very strict regulations, starting with background checks when applying for registration. Their conduct is permanently assessed and their license to practice can be suspended if there are criminal charges brought against them or if they are subjected to a professional conduct investigation.

When is a background check required

According to the public safety measures introduced in 2010 under the National Registration and Accreditation Scheme (NRAS), all health care practitioners, including psychologists must undergo a background check when they first apply for registration, but it doesn’t end there. A police check can be required at any time during the period their registration is valid and the same procedure applies when their registration is up for renewal.

At the same time, psychologists must inform the governing body of their profession, the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA), if and when they are charged with an offence that can result in a jail sentence. 

Incidence of criminal offences in the health care sector

Before the National Registration and Accreditation Scheme was introduced, there was no clear picture of how widespread are criminal offences among health care professionals.

During the first years the NRAS was in place, there were 52,445 background checks performed on people applying for a job or a license in health care. As it turned out, almost 3,000 of those people, or 6% of the applicants, had a criminal record. However, in most cases the criminal records referred to minor offences that did not impact the applicants’ chances of being registered in their field. Indeed, only 449 of the criminal records discovered were deemed serious enough to affect the registration process.

As far as psychologists are concerned, there were only 40 people with a record, and only in one case the application was denied. Two other individuals were granted conditional registration with certain limitations imposed.

If you look at the numbers, they are not that high, but what you have to keep in mind is that by the very nature of their profession, psychologists routinely interact with very vulnerable people and the damage done to them can be very serious.

Background screening options

There are a number of options available to psychologists to obtain accredited criminal history checks in Australia. They can head down to the local police station to complete the process manually (typically takes two or more weeks) or they can obtain the certificate online from a provider like Australian National Character Check Australia.

Mandatory notifications

Another measure aimed at protecting vulnerable patients refers to the obligation of all registered psychologists to report to the PsyBA any concerns they might have regarding the conduct of another member of their profession. 

Thus, a psychologist who has reason to believe a colleague might be guilty of professional misconduct must report it to the PsyBA, which oversees this sort of investigation.

It’s not strictly about misconduct. If a psychologist discovers a fellow practitioner has a health problem that might impair his or her judgment, the PsyBA must be notified. 

Of the 390 notifications concerning psychologists received between July 2010 and June 2011, the vast majority, 87%, involved suspicions of misconduct. Another 9% of the notifications referred to health issues, while 4% claimed the concerned psychologist lacks the knowledge to deal with certain cases. 

What can a psychologist do when he or she is under investigation

Whether they were reported by a patient, a patient’s family or by one of their own, psychologists in Australia are entitled to a fair investigation.

The first thing to do is to demand detailed information about the allegations made against them, like who formulated the complaint and when the offence was supposedly committed.

Armed with such information, a psychologist needs to demand legal counsel under his or her professional insurance policy. 

If the issue is cleared after an internal investigation of the PsyBA the practitioner concerned can go back to his work, but, should the findings confirm the accusation, he might lose his license and possibly face a criminal investigation. 

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How Cannabidiol May Impact Your Mental Health

While the covid-19 health crisis has highlighted the importance of cleanliness and good physical health, relatively few people are as vigilant about their mental health. However, recent statistics from the World Health Organization show that mental health issues such as depression and anxiety are increasing. How can people improve their mental health during this period of economic uncertainty, nationwide lockdowns, and social distancing? The answer may be simpler than you think.

An increasing number of studies have found evidence that regular use of cannabidiol (also known as CBD) may improve mental health. Cannabidiol is a naturally occurring substance that is found in cannabis sativa plants such as hemp or marijuana. Unlike THC (the addictive substance in marijuana), CBD does not cause addiction or intoxication. CBD is available in the form of gummies, baked goods, oils, coffee, sweets, teas, and other common food products. 

Doctors may also prescribe the use of medical marijuana for some patients who need CBD. While the use of medical marijuana is legal, some patients may be hesitant to try it as they may be afraid of other complications, such as failing a random drug test. For example, some individuals may not want to disclose the fact that they are using medical marijuana at all. For these individuals, the use of a sub solution synthetic urine  may be ideal.

If you are curious about the advantages of taking CBD, check below for a few specific mental health benefits. 

Protect Against Cognitive Deterioration

Cognitive deterioration is becoming increasingly common among elderly people. Today, it is not uncommon to find older people who are experiencing mild memory loss or more serious issues such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. While there is no known cure for Alzheimer’s disese, people can lessen the likelihood that they will develop the condition as they get older. One of the most cost-effective ways is by regularly consuming CBD.

A number of clinical trials have shown that CBD may prevent or even reverse the negative impact of Alzheimer’s disease. However, it is important to speak with a medical professional who can help you to determine the ideal dosage for your personal needs. As mentioned before, options are available for persons who are concerned about failing a drug test. If you do not think using a sub solution synthetic urine is for you, you may choose to carry powdered urine instead.

Treat Symptoms Associated With Anxiety and Depression

Due to intense competition and tremendous pressure in the workplace , many people in the working world have issues with anxiety and depression. Some of the common symptoms associated with anxiety include insomnia, headaches, irregular heartbeats, tense muscles, worry, irritability and difficulty concentrating. Common symptoms linked with depression include low energy, fatigue, anger, and physical pain. While both anxiety and depression are highly treatable, some people may be unable to afford therapy and other individuals may experience severe side-effects when taking anti-anxiety and antidepressant medications.

Studies show that CBD may be an effective, affordable treatment for symptoms of anxiety and depression. Although more research is needed, CBD is gaining increasing recognition in the medical community. Regular CBD use is linked with better sleep, less stress, and reduced pain. And unlike pharmaceutical medications, CBD is not associated with serious negative side-effects.

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Treatment Options for States with Opioid Addiction Issues

Opioids are a specific class of drugs that are known to have neurological and pain reduction properties. When prescribed and used properly, these drugs can have significant, positive impacts in terms of pain reduction. Unfortunately, they can also be extremely addictive, and this makes them a common substance for abuse. Furthermore, opioid abuse can often contribute to an individual eventually turning to illegal and highly dangerous drugs like heroin.

Opioid addiction is a huge problem in the United States, with more than 67,300 Americans dying of an opioid overdose in 2018. However, some areas of the country have a bigger opioid problem than others. The issue is often tied to a state’s economy, with more depressed, changing economies linked with higher levels of opioid abuse and death. However, several treatment programs are available such as:

• Medical detox
• Residential treatment
• Partial hospitalization
• Intensive outpatient treatment
• Outpatient treatment
• Medication assisted treatment 

Some of the states that could benefit most from these treatment programs are listed below.

West Virginia

In terms of deaths per 100,000 people, West Virginia is the leader, having lost 42.4 people for every 100,000 of its residents. The opioid problem is particularly acute in West Virginia for many reasons, including its changing economy, older workforce, and relative lack of educational attainment. In response to the crisis, West Virginia has declared opioids to be a public health hazard and developed an extensive plan to fight the disease.

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is next on this list, having lost roughly 35 people per 100,000 to opioids. According to available data, the problem is worse in the state’s rural counties, with four of the top five counties with the highest death rates located in very rural areas. Thankfully, concentrated action is paying off, and opioid deaths are down in large swaths of the state.

New Hampshire

New Hampshire is third on this list and is the most affected state in New England when it comes to opioid abuse. According to available records, New Hampshire lost 33.1 people per 100,000 to opioid abuse. Thankfully, those numbers are down from their peak in 2016.

Ohio

Ohio is another Rust Belt state that has struggled with opioid deaths, having lost 29.6 people per 100,000 to the disease. Ohio’s opioid abuse problem seems to have peaked in 2017, and the numbers have dropped significantly since that time.

Massachusetts

Massachusetts rounds out the top five most severely impacted states when it comes to opioid deaths, with 29.3 people per 100,000 dying in 2018. Unlike other states, Massachusetts actually saw it’s numbers worsen between 2017-2018, though it remains to be seen if this trend will continue.

Thankfully, concentrated action by states, the federal government, and a variety of non-profit actors have helped to reduce opioid deaths and give people a chance at recovery. AOIN Health is one such example of a group that has helped people recover from the physical, mental, and emotional effects of opioid addiction. AOIN is a recovery center that uses the latest practices and evidence in order to assist its patient’s recovery from their addiction and ultimately lead a better life. They specialize in many areas, including opioid abuse and recovery. 

 

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Can CBD or Hemp Oil Actually Help to Reduce Anxiety?

Anxiety is a mental health issue that is characterized by feelings of fear, panic, or worry. While it’s natural to feel anxious once in a while, an anxiety disorder can be crippling and can negatively affect your quality of life.

Mental health advocacy is still fairly new to society, so the stigma surrounding mental illness still exists. However, proper education can help to reduce the prejudice against people with health issues. 

People suffering from anxiety disorders often feel restless and have difficulty concentrating or falling asleep. They may also experience rapid breathing and an increased heart rate.

When someone experiences an anxiety attack, he may have the following symptoms:

• chest pains
• dry mouth
• feeling of distress
• dizziness, fainting, or nausea
• hot flashes, sweating, or chills
• inexplicable worry or fear
• shortness of breath
• numbness

Ignoring anxiety symptoms may cause the condition to become worse over time. It may also contribute to other health issues such as chronic pain, digestive problems, depression, insomnia, social isolation, and substance abuse. If you or a loved one is suffering from a suspected anxiety disorder, then a visit to a mental health professional is recommended. 

Reducing Anxiety: Can CBD Or Hemp Oil Help?

If left untreated, anxiety can affect your work and personal productivity. It may also hamper your ability to socialize with new people or nurture existing relationships. It is not uncommon for psychiatrists to prescribe anti-anxiety medications for people with chronic anxiety. However, many people worry about the negative side-effects of these medications. 

CBD oil and hemp oil are becoming increasingly popular as potential treatments for anxiety-related issues. But can CBD oil or hemp oil really help in relieving feelings of anxiety? Let us first distinguish between both types of oil.

Understanding The Difference Between CBD Oil And Hemp Oil

CBD oil and hemp oil provide a number of health benefits to users. However, there are certain features that differentiate one oil from the other. The Cannabis Sativa plant is the source of both types of oil, but while CBD oil is extracted from the entire plant, hemp oil is extracted only from the plant’s seeds. To better understand if hemp and CBD oil can help with anxiety, let’s look at a few of the benefits of each substance.

Studies show that CBD may reduce and even prevent seizures in people with epilepsy. While CBD is not yet scientifically proven to treat anxiety disorders in humans, it may help relieve some anxiety symptoms such as restlessness, insomnia, and chronic pain. CBD oil also has mood-enhancing benefits and aids in better metabolism, digestion, memory, and organ function.

Like CBD oil, hemp oil is touted as a natural product with several health benefits. Hemp oil is used to promote skin, heart, and brain health. High-quality hemp oil is used for its anti-inflammatory properties and may help to relieve pain. However, hemp oil does not have the same high cannabidiol levels as CBD oil. Cannabidiol is the compound in CBD oil that is believed to relieve symptoms of anxiety. 

Is CBD Oil Better Than Hemp Oil?

The answer depends on the specific health benefits you are targeting. Hemp oil is rich in essential amino acids and unsaturated fatty acids, which may explain why it supports brain, heart, and skin health. On the other hand, CBD oil is used to treat epilepsy and may have positive effects on people suffering from anxiety, pain, and other neurodegenerative conditions. 

Interestingly, the anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties of hemp oil may also be beneficial for keeping symptoms of anxiety at bay. The polyphenol content of hemp oil may help protect the brain from inflammation. Stress and anxiety can be damaging to the brain, so a compound that supports brain health may help prevent neurological and psychological disorders.

Takeaway

Anxiety may be something that you or a loved one is dealing with in secret. The stigma surrounding anxiety disorders may hinder a person with anxiety from getting the professional treatment he or she needs. Fortunately, natural substances like CBD and hemp oils may help to alleviate symptoms of anxiety before the condition becomes too difficult to handle. These all natural oils may be the keys you need to live a long and happy life.

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How to Maximize Your Counseling Sessions

Many people come to therapy because they want to make a positive change in their life. However, they may be unsure about what to change or how to go about making the adjustment they have in mind. Coming to therapy means making a sacrifice in terms of your time, money, and emotional energy. So it is important that you make the most of your counseling sessions and put yourself in a position to achieve the therapeutic goals you set for yourself. 

What specific things can you do to maximize your time in therapy? Here are a few helpful tips:

Be Yourself

There is no need to hide who you are or how you feel in therapy. You can cry if you feel like crying or speak your mind with the knowledge that everything you say will remain strictly confidential. Your therapist understands that there may be specific issues that motivated you to seek treatment. He or she will listen to you in an empathetic, non-judgmental way and offer professional guidance on how you can move forward.

Keep Your Appointments

Most clients make the best progress when they see their therapist regularly. However, some clients may start to skip their appointments if they start to feel better. Each therapy session provides you with an opportunity to resolve underlying issues that affect you or learn new skills to help you cope. Less sessions with your therapist mean less momentum as you try to achieve your treatment goals.

Be Honest with Your Therapist

Counseling needs to be tailored to each person who comes in for treatment. There is no one-size-fits-all approach. This means that your honest feedback is vital in helping your therapist to decide which therapeutic strategies are best suited for you. So if you are not comfortable with a particular technique, it is best to discuss your concerns with your therapist. Your therapist will try to adjust his or her approach so that you get the best results.

As you work with your therapist, you may find that there are topics that you are not ready to discuss right now. And that’s perfectly fine. Honest feedback helps your therapist to set a suitable pace during the counseling process that helps you to move forward and heal over the long-term.

Do Your Homework

Counseling gives you an opportunity to try new ideas in the safety of the therapy room. For example, a person with social anxiety may practice new interpersonal skills with his or her therapist before trying them in public. However, your therapist may assign homework that is to be completed outside of the therapy session. Completing these tasks are key to helping you master new skills and stay on track with your treatment plan.

Keep Your Goals in Mind

It is not unusual for clients to become absorbed in a particular topic during the counseling process. When this happens, it can be difficult for you to keep track of the progress you are making. It is helpful to pause from time to time so that you can take a step back and review your treatment goals. This gives you a good idea of where you are in your treatment plan and reminds you of any areas where you may need to put in additional work.

If you need professional guidance on how to manage mental health concerns, relationship issues, or emotional challenges, you can speak with a licensed mental health counselor on the BetterHelp platform. BetterHelp offers excellent online therapy services for persons who prefer to have their counseling sessions in the comfort of their own home.

Image by Vlad Bitte from Pixabay

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