Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

 

Research has clearly shown that biochemical imbalances have a strong influence on our mood. Research as also shown, though, that our negative thoughts ,attitudes and behaviors also play an important role. The Mood Shifting Program is a wholistic program and respects the interplay of all these factors.

2. How does the Mood Shifting Program differ from popular self help books such as "Feeling Good" by David Burns, M.D.?

The Mood Shifting program is similar in some ways and quite different in others. Both approaches are derived, in part, from what is known as "Cognitive Therapy". The cognitive therapy orientation, which underlies many books and programs sold in bookstores and on the internet, identifies the important place one's thinking has on creating one's negative feelings. The danger in a purely cognitive approach, however, is that it can, indavertently, minimize the value of feelings themselves.

Seeing negative feelings as being caused by our thoughts implies that unhappy feelings are simply unnecessary byproducts of bad thinking. Change the negative thought, it seems to say, and our bad feelings will simply disappear. In my experience, this is too simplistic and neglects the important unmet needs which are often expressed by our negative feelings.The Mood Shifting Program, I believe, is more balanced in it's valuing of both thinking and feeling.

3. How effective can a home study program really be?

The Mood Shifting Program creates a powerful synergy between understanding your negative moods and practical step by step exercises for change.

What's more, personal help is always close by. If at any point you get stuck, you can always e-mail me at oakdale3@aol.com.

4. How quickly will I notice the effects of the program?

Real change, like anything else, needs time to take root and grow. After just a few weeks though, you should begin to feel better and have a sense that real and lasting change is possible.

5.How can telephone consultation help me with the program?

While Mood Shifting is designed to be a "self help program", the truth is that we all need support when we undertake a program of personal growth. For instance, you may begin full of energy but become frustrated at points. These frustration points, rather than being indications of your " failure", are really signs that change is at hand. Instead of putting the program on the shelf, you can just contact me and I'll help you through it. As a practicing counseling psychologist, with nearly 30 years experience, I'm truly committed to your success!

The initial 15 minute telephone coaching session is free. After that, the cost of telephone coaching is only $35 for thirty minutes. Coaching sessions usually occur on a twice monthly basis.

To Order this program please click here

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Please send your questions, comments or feedback to: oakdale3@aol.com.

Site last updated: 5/12/01