Andrew L. Martin, PsyD We still have a lot to learn about the complex relationship between pain and the brain, but our understanding is improving. My colleagues, Drs. Jenny Andrus and Raj Sureja are addressing the physical aspects of pain in a series of articles they are currently writing. I’d like to provide some insight… Read more »
Andrew L. Martin, PsyD This is the third article in a series (https://www.osc-ortho.com/blog/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd-an-introduction/) on posttraumatic stress, or PTS. In this article, we explore how psychotherapists treat PTS. Providers begin treating PTS with a psychological evaluation or interview. Your provider needs to know you and your goals well in order to help you best. Next, your… Read more »
Andrew L. Martin, PsyD This is the second article in a series on post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. In this article we explore how post-traumatic stress symptoms might develop after a traumatic event. PTSD symptoms develop when there is a mismatch between two things – 1) the way our mind sees the world; and 2)… Read more »
Andrew L. Martin, PsyD After retiring from the military, I thought I would see fewer patients with posttraumatic stress, but I’m actually seeing a lot more. I think there are a few of reasons for this. First, the COVID-19 pandemic has brought with it numerous traumatic experiences, such as loss of loved ones, serious personal… Read more »
Andrew L. Martin, PsyD I vividly remember my first relaxation exercise. I was a psychology intern, co-facilitating a fibromyalgia psychotherapy group at the Navy hospital in San Diego. My supervisor led the group in a breathing exercise, and I got caught up in the exercise with the group members. A few minutes later, I was… Read more »
Andrew L. Martin, PsyD “The mental health impact of the COVID-19 pandemic can persist and be long lasting for several years…” – Karthirvel, N1 If you are emerging from the pandemic with less excitement than you thought you would, that is normal. In fact, about a third of us will experience lingering stress, generally… Read more »
Chronic pain is difficult, exhausting and depressing, not only for the sufferer, but for those who love and live with them. Having to modify your life according to someone’s pain level every day takes a great deal of patience and understanding. Doing so for long periods, without respite or refreshment, can easily result in caregiver and compassion fatigue and eventually, caregiver burnout. Let’s discuss how to recognize the signs and manage the normal frustrations and emotions of caregiving to head off fatigue and burnout before they start.
Andrew L. Martin, PsyD I am frequently asked if social media is bad for us – for example – is it reducing the amount of time we spend face-to-face with our family and friends, or is it otherwise making us depressed or anxious? Dr. Summer Allen, a research and writing fellow with the Greater… Read more »
When 2020 began, none of us predicted how it would unfold, into months of a worldwide pandemic that has turned our work lives and our social relationships upside down. Most of us are experiencing pandemic fatigue, tired of being restricted in our movement, activity, and in who we can see, touch, hug and kiss. We may face the loss of our livelihoods due to our businesses being shut down, or our jobs being taken away. Our children are suffering because they can’t go to school, see their friends, interact with their classmates or learn as they normally do. So how do we find joy and happiness in the holidays this year amid so many challenges?
Dr. Andrew L. Martin, PsyD works directly with the Interventional Pain Management Team as their Pain Psychologist. He comes to OSC after serving 20 years as an active-duty Navy clinical psychologist, where he specialized in psychotherapy for chronic pain, trauma, depression, and anxiety. Dr. Martin utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and other mental health… Read more »