Allan Grill CRC, MFT

Movement Disorders & Public Scrutiny

Someone recently asked me what should someone do about public scrutiny if s/he has an obvious movement disorder, such as Huntington’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, or other neurological disorder?  This question could also be applicable to wheelchair users who are also prone to public scrutiny when out and about in the world.  While the focus of this article is on eating out in public, the “tips” provided apply to other situations as well. Let’s face it, people are going to stare. …

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Legal Planning for Incapacity

Let’s face it, legal planning for incapacity is not a particularly fun or glamorous topic to discuss or even think about.  But, it is an extremely important subject to address if you have a progressive disorder, such as HD. I strongly believe that everyone, disabled and nondisabled alike, should consider legal planning for incapacity if any of these following questions hit home for you: 1)  If I should be unable to articulate my needs or otherwise make my needs known…

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Caregivers Take Care of Yourself

These guidelines are helpful whether you are taking care of yourself or if you are a caregiver for another person.  They are summarized from the National Council on Aging, Inc., “Caregiving Tips” series. First of all, admit your feelings.  Feeling tired, isolated, helpless, angry or scared can be indications that you are trying to handle too much without the help and information you need.  Such feelings, though difficult, are natural.  Talk to your family and friends about what you feel;…

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Cognitive Disorders: Combating Apathy & Inertia

A daily routine can be a beneficial therapeutic tool in combating apathy and inertia, common to cognitive disorders such as Huntington’s Disease and other psychiatric and cognitive symptoms. In spite of some of our conditioning to resist and resent routines imposed upon us and to value unstructured time, a written daily schedule of activities can be a most useful external device to encourage initiation when the ability to initiate from inside oneself is impaired. Because of the changes in brain…

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Knowing the Signs of Depression in Huntington’s Disease

Depression is one of the common psychiatric syndromes related to Huntington’s Disease.  It is often a syndrome that goes unrecognized and untreated. While depression affects a significant number of people with HD (it is estimated at 40%), it is one of the most effectively treatable set of symptoms.  Knowing the signs of depression is the first step in getting the appropriate help. Depression can be a psychological reaction to a variety of life changes and stressors.  This may include declining…

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Depression and Older Adults

Life is a series of adjustments to change.  As the years unfold, various events in later life may lead to experiences of sadness and grief.  The Golden Years can become tarnished by problems, and sometimes coping with life can seem overwhelming. Older adults are faced with a variety of issues, including: declining physical health,  loss of relationships, decreased financial security, and a decline in mobility that affects keeping up with familiar activities and involvement. Feeling depressed at times is a…

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What Can I Expect at the First Counseling Session?

Sessions are 50 minutes long. In the first session we will discuss what has encouraged you to come in for counseling.  I provide you a safe and secure environment to talk freely about whatever issues you may have. We may discuss the context of your situation and events leading up to your desire to seek counseling, as well as some family history. I may ask you questions or offer suggestions to facilitate the discussion and to better focus in on…

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Elder and Disabled Care Needs Assessment and Planning

As the baby boomer generation ages, many of our clients and their family members need increased practical nuts-and-bolts assessment and planning for disability and elder care. Addressing the psychological and logistical complexities related to aging and/or disability can be challenging for clients, family members and caregivers. Elder/Disabled Care Needs Assessment and Planning Consultations provide psycho-education, assessment of care needs, short- and long-term care planning, as well as practical problem-solving. With the often-complicated mix of emotions in providing care and support…

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