Last month representatives from the Louisiana Psychological Association asked for explanations about the reimbursement schedule of Magellan Health Services, the company now managing behavioral health services for the state.
The request came after a review of Magellan’s 2012 reimbursement schedule, used as a guide for ongoing decisions and updates regarding reimbursements to behavioral health providers, specifically physicians, psychologists, master’s professionals, and nurses.
Psychologists from the state psychological association (LPA), Dr. Jesse Lambert and Dr. Alicia Pellegrin, opened discussion with association members after they noticed that Magellan was planning to reimbursement medical psychologists slightly more ($49.38) per hour than other psychologists ($43.21) for the same service of psychological testing.
Based on information from Kaiser Foundation, Louisiana has 1,202,000 people living in poverty out of a total state population of 4,455,200. Kaiser reports that 42 percent of Louisiana citizens have health insurance from their employers, while 20 percent are covered under Medicaid and 13 percent covered with Medicare. Twenty percent are uninsured.
Dr. Pellegrin said to the Times that she and Dr. Lambert are looking into these and other possible issues with Magellan’s plan.
Another problem the psychologists identified was that some services, such as psychoanalysis, multiple- family group therapy, some types of biofeedback, hypnotherapy, interpretation or explanation of exams/reports, were not included to be reimbursed if provided by a psychologist or counselor. However, these services were reimbursed if provided by a physician.
Another issue that drew questions from community psychologists was that in Magellan’s schedule physicians are reimbursed for psychological testing.
Magellan’s schedule indicates that while master’s professionals are reimbursed for a number of services, some of these, such as individual psychotherapy of 30 minutes, appear to be limited to substance abuse. The Times spoke briefly with a member of the counselor’s association who said she was looking into the issue.
Last year Dr. Jesse Lambert explained to the Times concerns about a related problem. He noted that forensic psychological evaluations, typically those forensic assessments requested by the Department of Child and Family Services to help answer legal questions, were being inappropriately processed through the behavioral health system.
Lambert was named by LPA in fall 2011 to head a task force to look more closely at concerns that forensic and legal assessments had been viewed as health screening tools, rather than as an aid to legal decision-making. Lambert explained to the Times that he and this team were concerned that the placement of forensic services under Magellan was going to create quality problems in forensic services for the citizens in this group who have legal matters. Lambert also explained concerns about fewer referrals for forensic psychologists.
In September 2011, Magellan was named the Behavioral Health Statewide Management Organization (SMO). As the managing organization, Magellan falls under the Louisiana Behavioral Health Partnership, which was created by the Department of Health and Hospitals (DHH). The Partnership incudes four state agencies: Office of Juvenile Justice, Department of Children and Family Services, Department of Health and Hospitals and the Department of Education.
According to the government website, “Magellan manages behavioral health services for Medicaid and Non- Medicaid eligible populations served by the Office of Behavioral Health (OBH), Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), the Department of Education (DOE) and Office of Juvenile Justice (OJJ) and funded through state general funds and block grants, including services for individuals with co-occurring mental health and addictive conditions.”
The Partnership is designed to serve: 1. Children with extensive behavioral health needs, either in or at-risk of out- of-home placement; 2. Medicaid-eligible children with medically necessary behavioral health needs who need coordinated care; 3. Adults with severe mental illness and/or addictive disorders who are Medicaid eligible; and, 4. Non-Medicaid children and adults who have severe mental illness and/or addictive disorders. This is according to state website communications.
Based on information from Kaiser Foundation, Louisiana has 1,202,000 people living in poverty out of a total state population of 4,455,200. Kaiser notes that 906,800 people are uninsured and 13 percent of the population are adults with disabilities.
Kaiser reports that 42 percent of Louisiana citizens have health insurance from their employers, while 20 percent are covered under Medicaid and 13 percent covered with Medicare. Twenty percent are uninsured.
Additionally, with the next stage of implementation of the Affordable Care Act some observers say that more people will be included in the Medicaid program. According to Betsy McCaughey, PhD, former Lt. Governor of New York, Medicaid roles will increase on January 1, 2014 when the employer mandates take effect. She calculates that at that time an addition of $1.79 per hour will be added to the cost of a full- time worker. Some expect this will cause small business owners to shift to part-time employees and drop health coverage, so that workers in this group will likely seek out government coverage.
Above: Selected items from the 2012 reimbursement schedule used to plan services in the state. Some psychologists in the community asked for explanations from state decision-makers about the difference in fees for psychological testing, depending on if the psychologist was a medical psychologist. Some also asked about the lack of reimbursement for certain services. This 2012 list did not include changes in coding that went into effect in 2013.
Some estimates suggest that in 2014 nearly 50 percent of those covered will come through government sources.
The Times staff looked at a comparison of fees for different disciplines: advanced practice registered nurse (APRN); master’s professionals which include social workers and counselors; psychologists; and medical doctors. The graph compares who receives the higher reimbursement for the same service. The diagnostic interview generally takes an hour or more so the reimbursement is higher overall, as is the family therapy service.
The 2012 Magellan reimbursement schedule also illustrates general pay differences between the professionals. For example, for a 30-minute psychotherapy session, medical doctors are reimbursed $68.06, psychologists are reimbursed $54.45, and master’s professionals are reimbursed $47.64.
The Times compared average reimbursements for some selected services and found that providers benefit more financially if they deliver shorter services, such at the 10-minute evaluation, when compared to a 50-minute psychotherapy service.
Additionally, service categories having to do with behavior and health offered the lowest reimbursement rates, while pharmacological management are reimbursed at the highest hourly rates.
Magellan is similar to other states in this approach, based on reimbursement sheets posted on the web for New York City government.
In communications from the state to explain Magellan’s goals, state sources note: “In their role as the SMO [State Management Organization], Magellan is improving access, quality and efficiency of behavioral health services for children not eligible for the Coordinated System of Care (CSoC), and adults with Serious Mental Illness (SMI) and Addictive Disorders.
And they note in web communications, “selecting Magellan as the SMO, is necessary to assist with the State's system reform goals to:
1. Foster individual, youth, and family-driven behavioral health services; 2. Increase access to a wider array of evidence-based home- and community-based services that promote hope, recovery, and resilience; 3. Improve quality by establishing and measuring outcomes; 4. Manage costs through effective utilization of State, federal, and local resources; 5. Foster reliance on natural supports that sustain individuals and families in homes and communities.”
Dr. Alicia Pellegrin is currently serving as Legislative Chair for the Louisiana Psychological Association and can be reached for further information through the association.
Above is a general analysis of the fee per hour that is possible for the type of service delivered. The Times selected certain services, such as various 30 and 50-minute psychotherapy sessions for comparisons by likely average hourly reimbursement. This perspective shows slightly less reimbursement for the 50-minute psychotherapy session than the 30-minute, for all disciplines. Highest average hourly pay comes from medication management services, which over a range of types of services are typically shorter and more highly reimbursed. Health and behavior codes are reimbursed at a lower average hourly rate.
This article is part of a historical newspaper archive. Read the original issue for its original layout, photographs and graphics.
Originally published: . Volume 4, No. 6. Source pages: 13.
Dr. David Thomason, medical psychologist, is one of those rare individuals who loves the really big picture. He also loves to learn. He has put himself through a comprehensive series of educational programs. His studies have taken him up, down, and around the sides of today’s health issues, and it allows him to provide his patients with valuable choices that many do not have in today’s health industry.
Dr. Thomason has earned a doctorate in clinical psychology, a Masters’ in psychopharmacology, a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine, and a Master of Science in Acupuncture. He is well known in the Monroe area for his holistic approach. He is also well known in the psychological community, having served on the Louisiana State Board of Examiners of Psychologists and as chair in 1999. He’s seen the shifts and changes in medicine, psychology, and the alternative health field.
His website is straightforward and gives a clear descriptive of where he sits on the forefront of healthcare. For those open to and hoping for the alternative, whole person healthcare approach, the sections of the website lay out Thomason’s credentials, philosophy, and treatments very simply. While explaining his services, the various pages of his site also give some guidance and education for the visitor. The welcoming page gives the visitor information on medical psychology and acupuncture:
“Medical Psychology is a specialty trained at the post doctoral level and designed to deliver advanced diagnostic and clinical interventions. Acupuncture is a technique from Traditional Chinese Medicine that Dr. Thomason uses to treat a wide variety of problems. He utilizes his combined knowledge in these fields to give his patients expert care and attention.”
Also on the home page he lists the main services: Medication Management, Psychological Testing, Individual Counseling, Acupuncture, and Biomarker and Nutritional Assessment.
Practice
The website’s next page, “Practice,” helps to explain his philosophy: “Prescription for Wellness.”
There are so many alternative approaches today for different conditions. When do patients know which approach is the best for their situation? My first goal is to remove any barriers to wellness and watch nature work. Some of my patients feel better with lifestyle changes, acupuncture and counseling. Others take a more comprehensive approach with laboratory and biomarker testing. Some need additional psychological testing. I never take progress for granted with a written prescription alone.
MInd-Body Connection
This page is dedicated to explanation for the “Mind-Body Connection,” framed by sunsets and Bonsai tree.
The mind and the body have an interactive effect on one another. This effect is powerful and is present whether or not you are aware of it. The mind-body connection can be utilized to help you feel less stressed, relieve depression, improve sleep, and lead a more relaxed life. Depending on your condition, you may need medication, supplements, acupuncture or other botanical medicine supplements. However, by using mutually supportive therapies your path to wellness can be more rewarding and less difficult than before.
Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine
Next is acupuncture, ancient Eastern medicine technique and philosophy, with the description of how this treatment helps in treating chronic pain, balancing hormones, stress.
Acupuncture applies traditional Chinese medical theory to diagnose and treat illness, prevent disease and improve well- being. By inserting sterile, extremely thin, steel needles at specific points throughout the body, acupuncture activates the body’s self healing capacity. By using Eastern medicine concepts of how the body functions it can be used to treat a wide variety of medical problems.
Acupuncture stimulates the body’s innate healing mechanisms. It promotes a response that stimulates the body’s ability to spontaneously heal injuries to the tissue through nervous, immune and endocrine system activation.
The description helps those with chronic pain understand if the method might be helpful to them.
The site also gives information on the stress and illness connection.
“Acupuncture reduces stress. Due to my training, I view this as the most important systemic effect of acupuncture. Research suggests that acupuncture stimulates the release of hormones and signaling substances that regulate the parasympathetic nervous system. […] The parasympathetic nervous system has been called the ‘rest-and- digest’ and the ‘calm-and- connect’ system. Research implicates impaired parasympathetic function in a wide range of autoimmune diseases, including arthritis, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease as well as diabetes, heart disease, and many chronic health conditions.”
Biomarkers
A page to describe biomarker assessment, help visitors to learn more about guiding choices in psychotropic medications, a topic of importance in the literature.
Nutritional Evaluation in the Laboratory
Nutrition affects many aspects of your health. Some of the diseases and conditions affected by nutrition are gastroenterological, autoimmune, neurological, cardiovascular, and orthopedic. Nutritional imbalances can affect your body in many ways.
Fertility
The last page introduces the visitor to what can be offered in to improve the often complex, mind-body issues involved in fertility.
“Acupuncture is able to help address a wide variety of conditions such as elevated FSH, endometriosis, PCOS, amenorrhea, painful or irregular menstrual cycles, recurrent miscarriage and male factor infertility.”
Dr. David Thomason’s website is an eye-catching and educational overview of this innovative and holistic practitioner, with solid descriptions of complex health issues and an array of interesting, sometimes even surprising, approaches offered to help individuals truly regain and maintain their health.
See the entire website at: www.drdavidthomason.com
Images and photos from Dr. Thomason’s Webpages.
This article is part of a historical newspaper archive. Read the original issue for its original layout, photographs and graphics.
Dr. Gerald LaHoste and his team of researchers from the Applied Biopsychology Program of the Psychology Department at University of New Orleans (UNO) have discovered a way that could help delay behavioral decline in patients with Huntington’s Disease, an incurable, debilitating and fatal illness.
Working with genetically altered mice with the gene for Huntington’s, the researchers discovered that the role of another gene, named Rhes, is necessary for the symptoms of Huntington’s to appear. In their research they found that if this second gene was inhibited, there was a significant delay in the emergence of behavioral symptoms of the disease. The research, “Attenuation of Rhes Activity Significantly Delays the Appearance of Behavioral Symptoms in a Mouse Model of Huntington’s Disease,” is published by Public Library of Science, PLoS One.
Gerald J. LaHoste, Ph.D. (courtesy photo)
Huntington’s is an inherited disease affecting 3 to 7 of 100,000 people of European ancestry. It causes a progressive breakdown of cells in the brain, resulting in many debilitating effects on a person, including movement problems, cognitive disability, and dementia. Medications are used to help manage the symptoms of Huntington’s and deterioration of functioning that occurs over 10 to 15 years, but currently there are no treatments that prevent the physical and mental decline.
In their article, the authors explain, “The objective of the present study was to examine whether the inhibition of Rhes would attenuate or delay the symptoms of HD in vivo. We used a transgenic mouse model of HD crossed with Rhes knockout mice to show that the behavioral symptoms of HD are regulated by Rhes. HD+/Rhes2/2 mice showed significantly delayed expression of HD-like symptoms in this in vivo model. Drugs that block or inhibit the actions of Rhes may be useful as the first treatments for HD.”
Dr. LaHoste and graduate student Brandon Baiamonte conceived and designed the experiment. Along with Franklin Lee and Steve Brewer, also from the UNO Applied Biopsychology Program, who helped conduct the experiment. Baiamonte wrote the paper. Daniela Spano from the Biotecnoloie Mediche, Unversita di Napolic and the CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate, In Naples, Italy, contributed analytic tools.
Dr. Gerald LaHoste explained to the UNO press, "I believe that these findings are important because they may lead to the development of the first treatment for this horrible disease.”
LaHoste is Associate Professor of Psychology at UNO, formerly the Villere Endowed Chair for Research in Neuroscience, Emeritus. He received his Ph.D. in Physiological Psychology from Tulane University in 1985. He received postdoctoral training in Bordeaux, France and at the University of California, Irvine, where he served on the faculty for eight years before coming to UNO. His work has led to the discovery of the link between a dopamine-related gene and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, a line of research replicated in laboratories worldwide and cited over 500 times in scientific journals.
Dr. LaHoste’s applied biopsychology program at UNO is unique in the goal to understand the biological underpinnings of behavior, by examining the many levels of organization of this system. This effort spans from molecular genetics to behavior, with all variables in between, such as gene and protein expression, neuroanatomy and physiology.
In a phone conversation with the Times yesterday, Dr. LaHoste explained that the biopsychological approach is important for uncovering the connections between behavior and other levels of investigation, connections that other scientists may often miss.
His goal as stated on the website is to use “a comprehensive view of the complexity of normal and pathological human behavior.”
At the LaHoste Laboratory, a website that can be found under Dr. LaHoste’s faculty listing at UNO, the work is described as a subfield of psychology that is defined not by the subject matter but by its methods.
“We clone genes, we breed genetically engineered mice, we do DNA fingerprinting, we study changes in gene expression, we use state-of-the art microscopy to visualize the protein products of genes and, most of all, we meticulously observe and test rats and mice in their normal and drug-stimulated behavior using paradigms that have been validated as models of human mental and neurological illness,” noted authors of the site.
“But we are not molecular biologists, nor are we neuroscientists, we are Biopsychologists, first and last.”
The LaHoste Lab includes the Schizophrenia Project, Huntington’s Project, and Chemo- Brain Project. UNO offers a doctoral degree in applied biopsychology, a rapidly evolving discipline within psychology that can be defined as the scientific study of the biology of behavior.
On the LaHoste Lab website, the researchers note that the legendary folk singer Woody Guthrie suffered from the Huntington’s Disease, as did the fictional character Dr. Remy Hadley on the popular T.V. show House. The team cross-breeds Rhes knockout mice with the transgenic mice that show Huntington’s. This is how they study the role of Rhes in human Huntington’s disease.
“As Applied Biopsychologists, our hope is that our work will lead to a treatment for this terrible illness.”
They seem to have made a huge step in that direction.
The article is available at http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2 F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0053606
This article is part of a historical newspaper archive. Read the original issue for its original layout, photographs and graphics.
Originally published: . Volume 4, No. 6. Source pages: 14.
“Overcoming Obstacles: The Power of Group” is the theme for the February 25-March 2, 2013 meeting of the American Group Psychotherapy Association, to be held in New Orleans at the New Orleans Marriott.
“This is a huge conference,” Dr. Chris Garner told the Times, “One of our members is trying to secure a grant from BCBS to fund some students to go to the conference. Additionally, several local people will be presenting on a few topics.”
The events include Special Institute Presentation on Monday, February 25, the Two-Day Institute, on February 26 and 27, and the Three-Day Conference, on February 28, March 1, and March 2.
Some of those presenting at the conference are Drs. Sue Jensen and Darlyne Nemeth. A selection of those from the Louisiana mental heath and consulting community includes the following from the Association’s conference materials.
Dr. Sue Jensen (L) and Dr. Darlyne Nemeth (R) with Taighlor Whittington in back, at a past conference. Dr. Jensen and Dr. Nemeth will be presenting at the American Group Psychotherapy National meeting this month in New Orleans.
Workshop 40: Finding Your Style as Group Psychotherapist.
Chairs: Douglas W. Greve, MD, CGP, LFAGPA, Clinical Professor of Psychiatry, Tulane Medical Center, New Orleans, Louisiana; Susanne M. Jensen, PhD, CGP, FAGPA, Private Practice, Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
The workshop will focus on the definition and clarification of style in the development of the group psychotherapist. Attention will be given to the relationship between gender and style. Further, if and how does the co-therapists relationship affect style. Changes of style as influenced by personal development and professional experiences and in theoretical orientation will be discussed. It is a demonstration-experiential-sharing of work experiences- didactic style.
Learning Objectives: 1. Evaluate their own style as group therapist. 2. Distinguish between style, technique and theoretical foundation. 3. Analyze the style of leaders in group development. 4. Discuss their own style as it is related to training, professional experience and Personality Adaptation.
Workshop 90: Using Group Process to Address Anniversary Reactions: The Katrina Story.
Chair: Darlyne G. Nemeth, PhD, MP, MPAP, CGP, Clinical, Medical and Neuropsychologist, Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
Anniversary reaction group workshops were developed to address the unresolved emotional issues from Hurricane Katrina and to promote healing by encouraging belonging, comfort, security, and resilience. Participants were empowered to understand and resolve their anniversary reactions. These methods, with cultural adaptations, were subsequently presented in China and Australia. The style is didactic-sharing of work experiences-experiential- demonstration.
Learning Objectives: 1. Measure the outcome.2. Explore the interface of biological, historical, and environmental influences on traumatized individuals.3. Explain how the balance of work, play, love, and spirit is interrupted by chaos.
Session 21: Group Therapy with Latency-Age Boys Combined with Family Therapy.
Presenter: Marvin Clifford, PhD, LCSW, MSW, CGP, Director of Group Therapy, Ochsner Health Systems, New Orleans, Louisiana
This open session will focus on a model of group therapy for boys ages 7 to 12. The model is effective for boys with varied problems in multiple settings. The problems boys have that this model has been helpful include ADHD, ODD, behavior, anger, school, family, peer, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationships, shyness, Aspergers, peer and social skills, and communication skills. The presentation will emphasize skills for therapists working with boys in groups, a team approach, the wrap-around concept, and family therapy as an integral and important therapy along with the boy in group therapy. Evidenced-based practices will be presented for helping this population.
Learning Objectives: 1. Discuss interventions for helping boys in group therapy.2. Apply skills in helping families while their boy is in group therapy. 3. Use evidenced-based practices in helping boys and their families.
Workshop 87: Healing Ourselves: Using Mind-Body Medicine Groups in Difficult and Challenging Circumstances
Chairs: Toni Bankston, LCSW, BACS, Executive Director, Mind-Body Center of Louisiana, Baton Rouge, Louisiana,Jose Calderon-Abbo, MD, Faculty, Mind-Body Center of Louisiana, New Orleans, Louisiana,Therese Close, RN, Faculty, Mind- Body Center of Louisiana, New Orleans, Louisiana, Mindy Milam, LCSW, Faculty, Mind- Body Center of Louisiana, New Orleans, Louisiana, Marie O'Neil, LCSW, Faculty, Mind- Body Center of Louisiana, New Orleans, Louisiana
The founders and faculty of Mind-Body Center of Louisiana share the scientific foundation of the Mind-Body Medicine model as well as their experiences providing mind-body skills groups in many interesting and diverse settings, including: school-based, international communities affected by disaster and war, addictions treatment, summer camps, New Orleans and Gulf Coast communities impacted by the Oil Spill, FEMA villages after Katrina, medical schools and clinics, and inner city Baton Rouge and New Orleans neighborhood community settings. The MBCLA team will use a combination of didactic and experiential process to present the material and often invite the audience for personal sharing of their experiences. Style is demonstration-experiential-didactic-sharing of work experiences
Learning Objectives include: 1. Integrate mind- body skills into and enhance, their existing practice of group therapy.2. Incorporate mind- body skills as part of their daily self-care regimen and renew their desire to work in groups. 3. Adopt concrete strategies through this teaching in working in difficult settings and when faced with overwhelming obstacles and barriers. 4. Discover ways to relax into their work in groups and to convey an authentic presence with clients.
For all offerings go to http://www.agpa.org/
This article is part of a historical newspaper archive. Read the original issue for its original layout, photographs and graphics.
Dr. David Kidder is one of a growing number of clinicians who uses new methods not only to prove that his treatment works, but to help him and his client make important adjustments during the therapy process. With this method, called outcomes-informed care, Dr. Kidder and others like him, not only provide better services but can help those at risk of a poor therapy result, such as prematurely dropping out of the treatment.
The Times talked with outcomes researcher Dr. Jeb Brown of the Center for Clinical Informatics. He explained that high outcome therapists, the clinicians who consistently score higher than others on their client outcomes measures, do the same work better and they often do it faster, with fewer sessions, when compared to low outcome clinicians. “High outcome performance networks are money in the bank,” for those who pay for services, such as managed care companies, he explained. “There is an economic case to make,” along with the quality of patient care issues, he said.
In outcomes-informed care the client’s responses and improvements are surveyed on a regular basis. The process allows therapists like Dr. David Kidder, licensed counseling psychologist practicing in Slidell, Louisiana, to measure his effectiveness with his clients. Dr. Kidder can review the outcome results for a single patient to better understand that particular individual’s progress and to make adjustments.
He can also review his own global results, the overall combination of outcome measures from all his patients in the outcomes program. And, the method allows a clinician to be proactive with the 5 to 15 percent of the typical caseload that are at high risk for a poor treatment results.
Dr. Kidder is currently participating in an outcomes-informed care program provided by Value Options (VO). The program is called “On Track” and provides clinicians with the psychometric tools to use for clients covered by VO. But also a VO practitioner can use the same tools with his or her clients who are not VO members.
Dr. Brown told the Times, “David’s outcomes are extraordinarily high, even when compared to those getting very good results.” Brown said that the program at VO is voluntary and there is a self-selection occurring. Overall, those clinicians who have opted into this new methodology may be some of the most secure about their therapy approaches, and also some who are most open to this kind of feedback.
How is this approach implemented? “There are a number of ways this can be done,” Dr. Kidder explained to the Times, “and some of the managed care companies are providing avenues to gather this data on treatment effectiveness. I began using the protocol that Value Options provides on its provider web site.”
“I have each patient complete a Global Assessment of Functioning Scale before each session,” he said. “I give each patient an ID number that only I know, and fax these forms to Value Options. They enter the data and perform computations to determine effect size of treatment for each patient over the course of treatment, and I can access graphs of the patient's progress.”
Dr. David Kidder, licensed counseling psychologist practicing in Slidell, Louisiana, works with Value Options to collect data to measure his effectiveness with his clients.
“I can access aggregate data to see how well I am doing compared to other practitioners participating in the program. I can use the individual GAF ratings to discuss with my patient areas that are getting better or worse and how we might work together to improve treatment.”
A measure called the cumulative severity adjusted effect size, from the Value Options On-Track program, provides an estimate of Dr. Kidder’s results after adjusting for the differences in types of problems, demographics of the clients, and severity of symptoms.
The cumulative severity adjusted effect size for all Dr. Kidder’s clients who submitted repeated assessments was 1.14. Effect sizes of 0.8 or greater are considered large, while effect sizes of 0.5 to 0.8 can be considered moderately large. Effect sizes of less than 0.3 are small and might well have occurred without any treatment, he explained.
Dr. Brown and Clinical Informatics uses 0.5 effect size as the threshold for "effective". Dr. Kidder’s 1.14 effect size can be interpreted as reflecting consistently positive behavior change in his clients.
Another statistic derived from the Global Distress Scale data is the percentage of clients who have improved. Eighty one percent of Dr. Kidder’s clients who have completed multiple Global Distress Scales have shown improvement in their symptoms over the course of their treatment.
Dr. Brown and his team are currently working with very large samples of outcome referenced data, he said to the Times. “We have very large samples, with good information. We know the level of severity, we know which service, we know the costs, we know the credentials, we know what drugs. We’ve looked at these variables in great detail in very large data bases.”
Brown described that it was not until the last decade that the advances in statistical analysis caught up with the problem of where the variance came from in therapy outcomes. For a long time people studied the type of therapy, and thought it must come from the type of therapy. But when researchers began to use hierarchical linear models that allowed researchers to better understand the therapist as a variable, things became much more clear. “Across the board it is the therapist that explains the outcomes,” Brown said, “not age, not experience, not credentials, or the type of therapy.”
Outcomes measures for Dr. Kidder, allowing him to monitor both his clients’ outcomes and his effectiveness.
Traditional psychotherapy research is often based in clinical trials that look at the effectiveness of a specific treatment method.
Brown and others point out that the question is not whether cognitive behavioral or Jungian or Psychoanalysis or exposure therapy works best, but if the particular therapist can produce optimal outcomes with a particular client as well as across a range of diverse clients in real world settings.
His research, explained Brown, suggests that the positive results in studies across different types of therapy is most likely not due to the type of therapy, but due to the therapist and the relationship. “Therapist effects, this is what is driving things. It resides with the therapist.”
Outcomes-referenced methods appear to dovetail with the new educational options being put forth by the state psychology board. In particular, the client-monitoring approach that is likely to be accepted for continuing development credit.
These new continuing education regulations are scheduled to be reviewed at the March 2013 Long-Range Planning meeting of the LSBEP will likely include this type of competency assessment. Included in the proposed new regulations last year was “2. Practice Outcome Monitoring (1 completed questionnaire equals 1 credit). This is an activity where the psychologist assesses patient/client outcomes with a questionnaire that is shown to be of empirical value. Up to 50 percent of total credit hours is allowed.”
Dr. Brown told the Times that his group can support a limited number of "sponsored clinicians" on a first come first serve basis. Those interested may go to https://www.cci- acorn.org/register.asp In the pull down menu for "Sponsoring Organization" have them choose "CCI Sponsored". Once our staff has validated their registration, we will send out a new user email with their login information and password, along with links to help files and instructional videos.
This article is part of a historical newspaper archive. Read the original issue for its original layout, photographs and graphics.
The 2012 news year was characterized by some interesting politics in the mental health and educational segments of the community, but in many areas things were fairly quiet. Perhaps people were knuckled down and coping with the economy. The bright spots in the 2012 news were the individuals, who pushed ahead with contributions and innovations in science, practice, education, and training, aimed at making the world a better place. The national tragedy coming late in the year, and that set the country reeling, may direct many of the discussions for 2013 in the psychology community. Here is some of what we reported.
JANUARY
LSBEP Says No Dice to LPA President – The LSBEP (Louisiana State Board of Examiners of Psychologists) responded negative to a request from LPA President Dr. Phil Griffin of the Louisiana Psychological Association (LPA) about discussing ways to bring psychology back from under medicine. Dr. Tony Young wrote, “This is a legislative matter and is not the responsibility of the LSBEP to change.” The request came from a resolution by LPA members, years in the making, to seek certain changes in Act 251.
Tulane’s Dr. Adrienne Colella took on the President role for the Society of Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP), the largest group of IO psychologists in the country.
Dr. Lisa Tropez-Arceneaux, New Orleans licensed clinical psychologist, returned from a trip to Honduras where she assisted youngsters recovering from burns.
FEBRUARY
DDS Director Cautions About LPA Seminar – Executive Director of Louisiana Disability Determination Services sent a message to consultative examination providers cautioning them about a presentation hosted by the Louisiana Psychological Association (LPA), where Dr. Michael Chafetz gave information about his research about malingering. Throughout 2012 the Times asked repeatedly for explanation but the government has yet to respond.
Dr. Speier Named Asst Secretary OBH – Psychologist Dr. Anthony Speier became the New Assistant Secretary for the Office of Behavioral Health.
Boards Get Ready For Sunset Law – Everyone braced for Sunset, but it never came. The Sunset process was pushed forward to July 2017.
LPCs Continue to Work on 320 Rules – Members of the Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) Board continued to discuss revisions to rules for Act 320, legislation passed in 2011 that clarified and expanded the scope of practice for counselors, but required collaboration and consultation with someone licensed under the state medical board when treating individuals with “serious mental illness.”
LAMP Has New President – Dr. Cathy Castille, Baton Rouge medical psychologist, became the new President of the Louisiana Academy of Medical Psychologists, replacing Dr. John Bolter.
Southeastern Psychological Association Meets in New Orleans – Presenters included Dr. Susan Thorson-Barnett, Chair of Psychology at Northwestern State U.; and Drs. Mary Livingston, Alice Carter, Jerome Tobacy, and Angela Kennedy, from Louisiana Tech.
MARCH
Senate Bill 185 – The “Board Certified Behavioral Analyst Practice Act,” designed by the LSBEP and led by Dr. John Courtney, medical psychologist, became a slow motion train wreck, crystallizing opposition and dislike toward the psychology board and perhaps psychologists in general.
The issue would come to define the 2012 political scene after eliciting heavy opposition in autism parent groups, some of the education departments, and many behavior analysts. Opponents fended off several attempts by LSBEP to push the legislation through, and it came to an end in May when Senator J.P. Morrell, a parent also, created a commission that worked throughout the year on ideas for regulation.
The reason for the 2012 legislative move by the LSBEP was not explained in their minutes, nor did a vote ever appear to have been taken on the matter.
By the end of the year, the commission members would vote to place the behavior analysts under the LPC board, the main issue seeming to be a general distrust of the psychologists. While parent groups appeared most concerned about costs and restriction of providers, some old wounds in the psychology community also seemed obvious in the vote. (See story this issue.)
SB 216 – LPCs Successful In Removing Requirement – Licensed Professional Counselors were able to remove a requirement that their clients had to be under the care of a professional who prescribes medication, wording that came about in the changes to the Mental Health Counselors Licensing Act in 2011, but that had caused the LPC board to file emergency rules throughout the last year to deal with the requirement. Leaders in LPA did not oppose the bill, but a dust-up occurred between the psychology and LPC board attorney’s over statements by the LSBEP Executive Director.
HB 326 – Supported by the Louisiana Psychological Association, 326 amended the Children’s Code Articles regarding emergency certificate admission, allowing psychologists and some nurse practitioners to make emergency admissions. The medical psychologists tagged along for the ride.
The Louisiana School Psychology Internship Consortium (LAS*PIC), a program of the Human Development Center of the LSU Health Sciences Center in New Orleans, celebrated 20 years of excellence.
Dr. Burnett Captured Top Spot in LSBEP Election – Dr. Darla Burnett, the only medical psychologist running, received ten more votes than LSUS Chair Gary Jones for the LSBEP election. Dr. Arnold James was third. Burnett was appointed by the governor later in the year. Her appointment would maintain a majority of medical psychologists on the psychology board.
LSU’s Dr. Gouvier Wins Sage Science Award – Dr. William Gouvier, Randee Booksh, Russell Pella and Ashvind Singh were recognized for theie study, “Ability of College Students to Simulate ADHD on Objective Measures of Attention,” by Sage.
APRIL
Medicaid Psychologists Respond to DHH – Medicaid psychologists wrote to DHH Medicaid Director about concerns of utilization of psychologists in the new Medicaid program.
LPA Investigates Risk To Interns – Dr. Alicia Pellegrin, Secretary and Legislative Affairs Chair for Louisiana Psychological Association, contacted ASPPB (Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards) to ask about Louisiana’s unique regulatory situation and its impact on psychology interns in Louisiana. The ASPPB Director said, “… I am concerned that any number of boards may not recognize psychologists licensed by a medical board as licensed psychologists regardless of the law in Louisiana.” The supervision issue resulted from the reversal of an earlier opinion, led by Dr. Joe Comaty, after he was contacted by the president of LAMP and the Executive Director of the state medical board to reconsider the position.
Louisiana Psychological Association Convention featured Dr. Suzanne Chabaud, A&E television expert on Hoarders, from New Orleans, Dr. Cam Melville from McNeese on behavior analysis, and Dr. John Pickering on mindfulness, among others. Dr. John Fanning was chosen as the next president. A resolution to bring psychology by medical psychologists back under the state psychology board, was corrected by Dr. Tom Hannie, who explained that his original wording had been changed by the medical psychologist who recorded the 2011 motion.
LAMP Conference – Louisiana Academy of Medical Psychologists (LAMP) held their spring conference. Dr. Cathy Castille refused to provide any details about speakers or dates. Later the Times later obtained the information. Presenters included Drs. Joe Comaty, Claire Advokat, Cecil Reynolds, and Kim Gratz. The LAMP conference was scheduled on the same dates as the LPA conference. Undisclosed sources noted to the Times that the agenda for LAMP activities is confidential and restricted to dues paying members. .
The LSBEP held a town hall meeting at the LPA convention. Board members attempted to resolve parents’ and analysts’ doubts about the LSBEP legislation to put behavior analysts under the psychology board, at a town hall meeting. Later reports by parents suggested the effort to ease fears did little. State psychology board Executive Director Ms. Kelly Parker and Dr. Tony Young listen to comments at the April town hall type meeting that the board held to hear comments by parents and behavior analysts. While the meeting allowed for some interactions, it did not resolve concerns about the board.
Governor Jindal Reappoints Dr. Armelie To Commission – Dr. Aaron Armelie, health science specialist at the Southeast Louisiana Veterans Healthcare System, was reappointed to the HIV, AIDS, and Hepatitis C Commission by the governor.
LA Team Leads Successful CE Program at SWPA – Dr. Lawrence Dilks headed up the planning committee for Southwestern Psychological Association with the assistance of intern Burton Ashworth, student Jackie Bourassa, and doctoral student Billie Meyers. Dr. John Simoneaux was a Preconference Speaker
Dr. Ally Presented For APA – Louisiana medical psychologist, Dr. Glenn Ally, presented for APA “Clinician’s Corner.”
Dr. Muse Launched MensanaPublications.com Dr. Mark Muse, Louisiana medical psychologist and author of Handbook of Clinical Psychopharmacology for Psychologists, launched an online continuing education resource.
Dr. Pickering &Thay Dao Quang Offered “Mindfulness Day” – Dr. John Pickering, clinical psychologist from Baton Rouge, and practitioner of Zen Buddhism and meditation for over 40 years, joined Thay Dao Quang, Zen- trained Buddhist monk and Abbot of the Tam Bao Buddhist Temple in Baton Rouge, to offer a day of training.
MAY
Merger of LSUS to LaTech Failed – A proposed law aimed to transfer Louisiana State University at Shreveport from the LSU System to the University of Louisiana System. The plan was ultimately abandoned for want of a supermajority.
LSUS School Psychology Receives Accreditation – The Specialist in School Psychology (SSP) program at LSU Shreveport earned a seven-year accreditation and full approval from the National Association of School Psychologists, Dr. Kevin Jones explained.
Dr. Tiffany Stewart Launches “App” For Healthy Behavior – In her role as co-founder of a science- based technology company, Body Evolution Technologies, Dr. Tiffany Stewart helped to launch a new commercial app named The Body Image VoiceTM.
Dr. Chafetz Named LPA Distinguished Psychologist 2012 – Louisiana Psychological Association named Dr. Michael Chafetz, board certified clinical neuropsychologist from New Orleans, as its Distinguished Psychologist for 2012.
Zero-To-Three Names Tulane’s Dr. Heller To Leadership Group – The national organization for the well-being of infants and toddlers named Dr. Sherryl Heller to its 2012 Class of Leaders for the 21st Century.
UNO’s Dr. Reed In Best 300 Professors – Dr. Gilda Werner Reed of the U. of New Orleans psychology department has been named in the nation’s top-rated professors, according to Princeton Review’s The Best 300 Professors.
LaTech IO Student Works with Golf Digest – Luke Simmering, an industrial-organizational psychology graduate student from Louisiana Tech teamed up with Golf Digest to survey golfers nationwide on certain attitudes.
Louisiana Researchers Present at APS May – A host of psychological researchers presented at the Association for Psychological Science, including Kendall Eskine from Loyola, Jennifer Thibodeaux, Walter Buboltz, and Tillman Sheets from La Tech, and Sean Lane and Leslie Butler from LSU.
JUNE
School Psychologist Tweets Draw Sharp Criticisms – A Jefferson Parish school psychologist drew strong criticism from a number of sources for his comments on Twitter and NOLA.com.
Dr. Lemoine Commended – Dr. Randall “Randy” Lemoine was commended by the Legislature for his thirty-five years of distinguished service with the Department of Health and Hospitals.
UNO’s Dr. Laird Looks At Family To Improve Teen Driver Safety – Dr. Robert Laird, associate professor at the University of New Orleans (UNO) earned a $515,000 grant from the W. T. Grant Foundation to study teen drivers.
LSBEP Board Member Files Suit Against Angie’s List and a Psychiatrist for Libel – John Courtney, PsyD, MP, filed a lawsuit against Bartholomew Vereb, MD, and against Angie’s List, Inc., in March for comments that he was a “joker” and a “quack.” Angie’s List was later dismissed from the suit based on legal protection for blogs.
LPC Board Posts New Rules for Marriage & Family Therapists – The Licensed Professional Counselors Board of Examiners published 11 pages of rules for the regulation of Marriage and Family Therapists.
Times’ Request for 251 Memo Rejected Again by LSBEP – The Times was again denied the memo discussed during two key board meetings in 2009, about Act 251. And the board did not answer the questions about an earlier rationale about preparing for ligation.
Pennington’s Dr. Stewart Wins $2.3 Million NIH Grant To Study Health of Female Athletes – Pennington Biomedical Research Center and Dr. Tiffany Stewart was awarded a five- year, $2.3 million grant by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to investigate a program designed to improve the health and well-being of female collegiate athletes.
Tulane Faculty Member Dr. Beth Wee Honored – Psychology faculty member Dr. Beth Wee has received the John Stibbs Award for Outstanding Faculty Member from Tulane’s undergraduate Student Government.
JULY
School Psychology Internship Program Threatened – An eleventh hour message that the Louisiana School Psychology Internship Consortium (LAS*PIC) was to be cancelled prompted a number of actions by the program director and concerned colleagues. These efforts helped forestalled the Department of Education’s apparent decision to cancel funding. “For now,” a source told the Times.
Forensic Psychologists Questioned New Procedures As State Restructures – Forensic psychologists who work with state clients formed a task force to study the newest decisions in state programs. Led by Dr. Jesse Lambert and supported by LPA, the team began analyzing quality issues regarding the Louisiana Behavioral Health Partnership, a coordinated system of care involving the Department of Health and Hospitals, Department of Education, Department of Children and Family Services, and the Office of Juvenile Justice. The task team is concerned that the medical insurance contractor Magellan is structuring legal decisions to be made by individuals who are not qualified to make high stakes forensic determinations.
New CE Guidelines Were Reviewed for Psychologists – The psychology board continued with their goal of updating the continuing education guidelines tracking the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB) ideas. The changes were published in the LA Register and drew comments from the community, mostly about the reduction in traditional training hours allowed. More kinds and types of continuing development were generally accepted.
Psychology & Cyberspace – Dr. Rick Stevens, associate professor of psychology at the U. of Louisiana of Monroe, uses the technology of the “virtual world” to help him with his research and teaching.
VA Hires 1,600 Mental Health Professionals – To deal with growing mental health issues in veterans, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs moved to hire more help. Position postings began to appear at the VA centers in Shreveport, Alexandria, Baton Rouge, and New Orleans for psychologists, social workers, and psychiatrists.
HOLA – “Hola” visited the Louisiana State Board of Examiners of Psychology at their June meeting. The Goldendoodle pet of Dr. John Courtney needed a place to crash and the board adjusted.
PT Interviews New LPA Pres -Dr. Bryan Gros told the Times that one of his main objectives for his presidency: “An overall, broad strategic vision is one of my main objectives. We could benefit from better defining, or better understanding, who we are, where we are, who we want to be, and where we want to be in the future.”
AUGUST
BP Settlement Funds Health Projects in LA Coastal Community: LSUHSC Professors Lead Mental and Behavioral Health Project. A legal settlement for health issues provided $105 million to projects aimed at increasing the availability of healthcare to the coastal communities in Louisiana and four other states. As part of the 432-page class action medical settlement between plaintiffs and BP, which set out compensation procedures for those with illnesses arising from the spill, BP agreed to allocate $105 million for four projects to support residents’ primary and psychological care.
LSU Combines Six Schools Into College of Human Sciences & Ed – LSU combined the School of Education, the School of Human Resource Education and Workforce Development, the School of Kinesiology, the School of Library and Information Science, the School of Social Work and the University Laboratory School.
LA Presenters at APA in Orlando – Louisiana psychologists and researchers who presented at the American Psychological Association included Dr. Darlyne Nemeth, Dr. Michael Cunningham, Dr. Glen Ally, and Dr. Kelly Ray. Dr. John Robinson won the Matarazzo Award. Tulane students Laura Marques, Alison Lubin, Dr. Douglas Walker, Laura Danna, Shereen Naser, Claire Mendez, and Dr. Stacy Overstreet presented research. Dr. Mark Muse and Dr. Bret Moore presented on their Handbook.
Gov Announces Appointments To LPC Board of Examiners – Kathy Lammert, LPC from Metairie, Military Program Coordinator and lead therapist for Dual Diagnosis Inpatient Program for River Oaks Hospital, and Dustin Dowling, public member, were appointed to the board.
LSU Education Professor and Psychologist Dr. Culross Spoke In London During the 2012 Summer Olympics – Dr. Rita Culross, LSU College of Education professor and licensed psychologist, spoke at the Oxford Roundtable at Harris Manchester College in the University of Oxford in Oxford, England, on talent development in Olympic athletes.
SEPTEMBER
Who Paid for Act 251 and Why? – The Times did an investigative story about some of the missing information around Act 251, a law that repealed the landmark 2004 Act 11 and moved medical psychologists and their practice of psychology under the authority of the medical board.
Dr. Overstreet Takes Over Chair at Tulane, Dr. Ruscher Takes On Associate Dean – Dr. Stacy Overstreet, a professor, licensed school psychologist, took over the duties of the Chair of Psychology as Dr. Janet Ruscher who led Tulane Psychology for 9 years, was named to Associate Dean of Graduate Programs in Tulane’s School of Science and Engineering.
ULM Partnering With Pennington to Study Dementia Prevention – Dr. Karen Kopera-Frye, department head of Gerontology, Sociology and Political Science at University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM) helps lead a joint project between ULM and Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Baton Rouge, part of the LSU System. “
OCTOBER
Dr. Hutto Takes On New Department at U. of LA Monroe – Dr. Cecil Hutto was appointed Chair for the newly created Department of Behavioral Sciences at the University of Louisiana – Monroe (ULM). Dr. Hutto takes over from retiring Dr. David Williamson, in an expanded department.
Psych Bd Asks AG To Expedite ABA Opinion – The psychology board has requested that the state Attorney General expedite an Opinion regarding the practice of applied behavioral analysis.
The Power List 2012 – Using an idea from the Independent News (Pensacola) the Times conducted a rough focus group to discover who is perceived as having power. Dr. James Quillin received the most nods.
Dr. Stewart Interviewed by Huffington – Dr. Tiffany Stewart was interviewed by Huffington Post Healthy Living writer, Jean Fain, MSW, who was inspired by Stewart’s work in the video, Body Image Project video.
Dr. Rizzuto Joins LSU College of HS & ED – Dr. Tracey Rizzuto joined the School of Human Resource Education & Workforce Development in the newly organized LSU College of Human Sciences & Education. She left her position as assistant professor in IO at LSU Psychology.
NOVEMBER
AG Opinions Clarify LMFT Scope of Practice, ABA Issues – The Louisiana Attorney General issued Opinions for the LSBEP about rules for Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), and the practice of applied behavior analysis. The Attorney General (AG) found no problem with the LMFT rules, and basically answered that while the board had the right to put injunctions on behavior analysts, it would be up to the judges to determine if it was reasonable or not.
Dr. Simpson Launches Kid’s Dashboard – The Children’s Cabinet launched its “Louisiana Kid’s Dashboard” a continuing step in the Cabinet’s efforts to coordinate and engage the statewide community to help for Louisiana’s children. Dr. Tiffany Simpson, a graduate of the University of New Orleans psychology department, is the Executive Director of the Cabinet.
LA Psychologists Note Issues For Understanding Military Life – The Times spoke with two Louisiana psychologists for Veterans Day, Dr. Dana Boose and Dr. Andrew Thrasher, about their perspectives. Dr. Dana Boose is a Clinical Psychologist in the Post Deployment Healthcare Clinic at the Alexandria VA Healthcare System, and Dr. Andrew Thrasher is a veteran and member of the Give An Hour program.
Psychological Science in Public Interest Webinar Presented by LPA – Dr. Michael Chafetz presented a special review of his research on malingering in social security disability for Senator Thomas Coburn’s Congressional Office members.
Southern U. Psychology Department Hosted Research Conference – The Psychology Department at Southern University hosted the 13th annual Behavioral and Social Sciences Undergraduate Research Conference. Dr. Murielle Harrison, psychologist and professor, is Chair of Psychology at Southern.
DECEMBER
Commission Heated Up – Psych board offered an unprecedented two positions on the LSBEP in rushed negotiations after the parent chairs listed an “Established Economic Conflict of Interest,” and “Mistrust/Antagonistic Relationship” with the psychology board. A proposed a merged board arrangement for LPCs and behavior analysts prompted the surprising offer from the LSBEP.
UNO’s Dr. Weems Drew National Media Interest – University of New Orleans psychology professor Dr. Carl Weems and his graduate students Brandon Scott, Donice Banks, and Rebecca Graham, drew national attention for their study about stress, television, and disaster coverage, published in Psychological Science, the highest ranked empirical journal in psychology.
Louisiana School Psych Assn Hosts 200+ Attendees – Over 200 school psychology professionals took on the critical topics of how to help at-risk youngsters at the Louisiana School Psychological Association (LSPA) conference. LSPA President Dr. Yael Banai told the Times that this year’s theme, “Resilience and Reconnection,” was chosen to help spotlight the particular strengths that students have. Presenters included Drs. Stacy Overstreet, Michael Cunningham, Conni Patterson, and Bonnie Natasi, from Tulane, Dr. Alan Coulter of LSUHSC, Dr. Kevin Jones, LSU Shreveport and past president of LSPA, and Dr. Rebecca Nolan, also from LSU Shreveport, school psychologist and medical psychologist.
U of LA Monroe Researchers Begin Assessment Of Academic Psychologists & Students – Researchers from the University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM) launched an effort to better understand the needs of academic psychologists and students of psychology last month in collaboration with members of LPA. Dr. Karen Kopera-Frye, Ms. Janease Traylor, Ms. Sandra Dillion, Dr. Bill McCown, Interim Provost at ULM, Dr. Susan Dardard, Membership Chair of LPA, and Dr. Gail Gillespie, are helping.
Dr. Courtney Resigns from LSBEP – Vice Chair of the psychology board, Dr. John Courtney, stepped down from his position on the Louisiana State Board of Examiners of Psych- ology in December.
Dr. Schechter Speaks To USA Today About Stress and Sandy Superstorm – Dr. Lynn Schechter, Baton Rouge psychologist and native of Oceanside, New York, was interviewed for a USA Today article on the psychological impact of the storm.
UNO’s Dr. Gilda Reed Honored – Excellence in Teaching – The U. of New Orleans Inter- national Alumni Association named Dr. Gilda Reed recipient of its Excellence in Teaching Award.
This article is part of a historical newspaper archive. Read the original issue for its original layout, photographs and graphics.
Models for Change Contributors Include Drs. Paul Frick, Tiffany Simpson, Jana Sutton
A December 2012 report by the Association for the Advance- ment of Evidence-Based Practice, a watchdog group for crime prevention, Louisiana is among the top five states for its rapid and successful implementation of proven programs for juvenile offenders. The report was presented at the Models for Change annual conference held in Washington, D.C., in December.
Of the top five ranked states, the Association explained that Louisiana had made the most rapid and effective improve- ments, using the number of therapist teams as the measure of performance.
“The Pelican State may be the most interesting case for those states that are just beginning to experiment with EBPs [Evidenced Based Practice],” the report noted. The authors pointed out that Louisiana turned a crisis into opportunity after The New York Times profiled conditions in Louisiana’s juvenile institutions in 2006. Followed by a lawsuit brought by the U.S. Department of Justice, a major push for change began.
Louisiana’s comprehensive juvenile justice program involves a group of key leaders, including physicians, psychologists, and counselors. The program is supported by the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation and its Models for Change program.
Dr. Peter Greenwood, executive director of the Association for the Advancement of Evidence- Based Practice authored the report. An article on the Models for Change website noted, “Dr. Greenwood’s study praised Louisiana specifically for its creation of the state Juvenile Justice Reform Act Implementation Commission to oversee execution of evidence-based programs in the state and the state’s transition to a therapeutic model of care. He also emphasized the importance of the MacArthur Foundation’s Louisiana Models for Change initiative and its leader Dr. Debra DePrato, faculty at LSUHSC School of Public Health, for her success in developing good working relationships with key stakeholders at the state and local level and bringing together those stakeholders to disseminate and implement more effective community-based services for youth.”
Dr. DePrato, physician and senior faculty member of the LSU Health Sciences Center School of Public Health, is the home for the Models of Change program in the Institute for Public Health and Justice. She was named 2012 Champion of Louisiana Juvenile Justice. But DePrato agreed to take the job of project director for the Models for Change program only if she could handpick her team, noted the report.
One of these key team members is Dr. Paul Frick, Department Chair at U. of New Orleans and international expert in understanding the factors in adolescents’ emotional and behavioral problems. He designed and coordinated information tools needed for the program’s success.
“Paul’s data is giving us concrete information about how youths are entering the system, what interventions are being provided and the outcomes. This gives us a rock-solid foundation for reform,” says DePrato, in a report on the Models website.
“Dr. Frick has also motivated and organized his colleagues,” she said. “In a state that has recently embraced community- based reforms, he exemplifies the desire of committed professionals across the state – from local sites to state government – to work toward a common goal of achieving improvements in the juvenile justice system.”
Frick developed a comprehensive data mapping process of the juvenile justice system in each parish and a state data group involving a diverse group of key leaders and stakeholders. He also developed an Outcome Evaluation Plan to look at effectiveness in reaching those goals, noted the MacArthur report.
“Paul’s great accomplishment is integrating his under- standing of child and adolescent psychology and immense data collection expertise with an understanding of politics and policy,” DePrato said. “He knows how important data collection and research are in developing effective interventions that lead to lasting reforms and better lives for kids.”
The Louisiana Models for Change also includes state partnerships that provide infrastructure for statewide reform. Another of these partnerships is the Children’s Cabinet, Executive Director Dr. Tiffany Simpson.
Dr. Simpson is a University of New Orleans graduate and student of Dr. Frick, now leading the Children’s Cabinet and its multiple programs, including Youth planning Boards, State level Data/Information Sharing, and Best Practices for Informal Status Offenders.
The Cabinet coordinates children’s policy across five Louisiana departments that provide services for young people. The Children’s Cabinet was awarded a Louisiana Technology Innovation Fund grant which helped to fund the Louisiana Supreme Court’s Integrated Juvenile Justice Information Systems for statewide communication.
Another Higher Education partnership in the Models of Change program is the U. of Louisiana at Monroe – Marriage and Family Therapy Program for Adolescent Substance Abuse Assessment and Treatment Models, led by Dr. Jana Sutton. Dr. Sutton is Assistant Professor and Director of Clinical Training – Marriage and Family Therapy, in the department of Behavioral Sciences at U. of Louisiana at Monroe. Sutton was awarded a MacArthur Foundation: Models for Change Grant over recent years. Dr. Sutton has degrees in Marriage and Family Therapy and undergraduate in psychology. She is a licensed professional counselor and licensed marriage and family therapist.
Also, Dean of Northshore Technical Community College Sharon Hornsby, a licensed professional counselor was named “Champion of Change” for juvenile justice this December at the Washington conference.
The report from the Association for the Advancement of Evidence-Based Practice also outlined and looked at the three most highly regarded evidence-based programs for family therapy, with the goal to reduce future delinquency. The report noted that Louisiana is using Multi-Systemic Therapy and Functional Family Therapy, two programs described by the Center for the Study and Prevention of Violence Institute of Behavioral Science, University of Colorado Boulder and its Blueprints for Violence Prevention. At Blueprints, 11 programs have been selected from over 900 therapy programs for effectiveness. Detailed information about these therapies is available at http://www.colorado.edu/c spv/blueprints/modelprogr ams.html
The report, “Implementing Proven Programs for Juvenile Offenders: Assessing State Progress,” can be downloaded from the website, Advancingebp.org.
This article is part of a historical newspaper archive. Read the original issue for its original layout, photographs and graphics.
Originally published: . Volume 4, No. 5. Source pages: 6.
The John. D. & Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation’s Models for Change initiative has recognized Sharon Hornsby, dean of the Northshore Technical Community College Florida Parishes Campus, as a “Champion for Change” in juvenile justice reform efforts.
Dean Hornsby, a licensed professional counselor, is the project director of the Louisiana Models for Change pilot program at the Northshore Technical Community College Florida Parishes Campus in collaboration with the Louisiana Office of Juvenile Justice and the Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Institute for Public Health and Justice to provide career development and job training enrollment opportunities for adjudicated youth.
“Dean Hornsby embodies the values of Models for Change: fundamental fairness, recognition of developmental differences between youth and adults, and believes that all youth have the potential to not only change, but to become contributors to building their own communities,” said Dr. Debra DePrato, director of the LSUHSC Institute for Public Health and Justice and the lead for Louisiana Models for Change. “As a result of her leadership, this group of students, many of whom have never before seen what success looks like, have become more successful in school and in life. ”
An astonishing 80 percent of the students in the Models for Change NTCC program so far have successfully completed the entire educational/job training program. Seventy percent have already earned a job‐based credential.
This article is part of a historical newspaper archive. Read the original issue for its original layout, photographs and graphics.
Originally published: . Volume 4, No. 5. Source pages: 7.
In a December 27, 2012, message to members, the American Psychological Association promised to develop a plan to aid in violence prevention and prepare a response to the national tragedy at the Sandy Hook Elementary School. Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Norman Anderson wrote in the email letter that he has assembled a team to “focus on an issue psychology can uniquely address: the prediction and prevention of violence.”
Anderson wrote that the team will work with a small number of APA members who have expertise in violence assessment and prevention and then to plan the next steps. He indicated that the work will include the inadequacy of the current mental health care system, mental illness stigma, the need for more mental health professionals, and trained police and other public safety individuals. He also wrote that the goal will be “to share the best available science with policymakers, the news media, other health professionals, community leaders and public.”
Anderson also noted that his team would reach out to the Obama administration, Congress, news and educational groups.
He stated that the factors motivating Lanza were “probably a complex set,” but APA will be reviewing it policy on violent video games, to consider new research since the 2005 policy was adopted.
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Originally published: . Volume 4, No. 5. Source pages: 7.
In a press release on Friday, December 14, 2014, about the Sandy Hook tragedy, the Communications Director for the National Association of School Psychologists, Kathy Cowan, expressed sadness and support for all involved, and noted the death of Mary Sherlach, school psychologist. Cowan wrote, “On behalf of our 25,000 members, the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) joins the nation in expressing our sadness and shock at the horrific events at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, CT today. Our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone affected by this heartbreaking tragedy.”
She said that it is important to remember that an event like this is rare and that schools are one of the safest places for children. She provided ideas to help children with the aftermath of the shooting. And she wrote, “This is an extremely important time to reinforce children’s natural resilience and emphasize the preventive steps that schools can take to maintain a safe and caring school environment.”
“Among those who lost their life today was Mary Sherlach, Sandy Hook ES school psychologist and a NASP member,” Cowan wrote. “Like all school psychologists, Mary cared deeply about her students and was committed to their personal well-being and success in school, at home, and throughout life. The thoughts and prayers of the school psychology family are with Mary’s family and circle of friends, as well as the students she served so well.”
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Originally published: . Volume 4, No. 5. Source pages: 7.
BATON ROUGE – State Representative John Schroder, Chairman of the Select Committee on Homeland Security, has called a meeting for Wednesday, January 9, at 10:00 a.m. The purpose of the meeting is to review security procedures and crisis prevention, especially aimed at Louisiana’s educational institutions. The House Select Committee on Homeland Security meeting will be held in House Committee Room 5.
In an earlier press release on Friday, December 21, 2012, House Speaker Chuck Kleckley said, “We in Louisiana should take special notice of the tragedy at the Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut. “
“While we grieve with the families of Newtown, we as legislators need to ask if there are lessons to learn and apply to our own hometown schools. I have talked to many members across the state, and it is clear that we should evaluate and question the policies and procedures of our schools to determine if our children are as safe as possible.”
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Three psychologists are running for the Louisiana Board of Examiners of Psychologists beginning when Dr. Lee Matthews completes his term in June 2013. The ballots were mailed recently and must be returned by January 25, 2013. The Times contacted the three candidates, Dr. Joe Comaty, Dr. Phil Griffin, and Dr. Lynn Schechter, by email and asked them some questions. Griffin and Schechter responded, Comaty did not.
The three candidates have a number of differences. Dr. Comaty is the only medical psychologist running, and he is the only one of the three who has already served on the board. He completed a five-year term in 2011. On his application Comaty noted that he is with the Office of Behavioral Health in the Department of Health and Hospitals in Baton Rouge, but retiring in January 2013.
Comaty has been engaged in teaching and training. His current positions are as part of the teaching faculty at the Southern Louisiana Internship Consortium, as noted on his application. He is a site reviewer for American Psychological Association (APA). He notes that he is also Chair of the APA RxP Designation Committee. He earned his PhD from Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science in Chicago in 1992. He is a member of APA and the Baton Rouge Area Society of Psychologists. He did not list himself as a member of LPA or LAMP, but he has contributed to the LAMP and sources say that he was in LPA at one time. He is listed as a faculty member for the psycho- pharmacology program at Alliant University, according to the website.
Comaty’s overall objective, as stated on the nomination form, is to address “… greater risk to the public which faces an ever broader array of professionals who claim to be able to provide services usually restricted to licensed psychologists. It is even more important that the Board act to protect the public from the illegal practice of psychology.”
Dr. Comaty was serving on the LSBEP in 2009 when the psychology board reviewed Act 251 and discussed matters about the bill, but took no action.
The second candidate is Dr. Phillip Griffin, clinical psychologist who is engaged in institutional practice, teaching/training, and research, according to his application form. Griffin is the Professor and Chief of Psychology at the Psychiatry Department of LSU Health Sciences Center, DePaul Hospital, in New Orleans. He earned his PhD from the U. of South Carolina. He has been licensed since 1978. He is the only one of the three who holds a diplomate in clinical psychology. He is the only candidate who is a member of Louisiana Psychological Association, for which he has twice served as president.
He notes his community service at the Charity Hospital, saying, “I have always served the underserved.”
If he is appointed, he says he would like to see psychologists licensed immediately post internship. And, he wants to retain traditional types and amounts of continuing education activities, and also wants to add the newer options for continuing development.
The Times asked Dr. Griffin how he felt about Act 251 and also about the supervision of psychology interns by medical psychologists who do not have state psychology licenses.
“I have found that Act 251 does not personally affect me in any way,” he said. “I did not like the move of Medical Psychologists to the Medical Board at all when it was initially revealed. I have since come to understand some of the reasons for the move and now believe that it was necessary for self- preservation. The secretive manner in which the transition took place offended many of us but that was the strategy of those involved at the time.” He noted, “I am still amazed at the number of people who won’t let this thing go and who would still choose to meddle with the chosen direction of the MPs.”
Regarding the supervision of psychology interns by medical psychologists not licensed by the state psychology board, Griffin said, “Interns and pre-licensed psychologists being supervised toward licensure are to be supervised by an LSBEP licensed psychologist. MPs can choose to keep their LSBEP affiliation so they would definitely qualify.”
The third candidate is Dr. Lynn Schechter, the only one of the three in private practice and the only licensed school psychologist running this time. She earned her PhD from Columbia University in New York and was first licensed in New York in 2002. She includes in her list of service to the profession assistant professor at LSUHSC, Clinic Director for Infant, Child, and Family Center at the Capital Area Human Services, and private practice with mostly low-income families. She has provided services to survivors of 9/11 in New York, in shelters post-Katrina, and post Gustav.
Schechter indicated that she has been a member of LPA, APA, and NASP but is not a member of any of these currently.
She writes on her application that she is concerned about the changes that impact lower income children and families in the state. And she is also concerned about the divisions that have erupted in the state between medical and non- medical psychologists.
When asked about Act 251, Dr. Schechter said, “I have mixed feelings about Act 251.” She noted that “… it does seem to make sense that the medical board would have to play some role in regulating their [medical psychologists] practice since medication (which can potentially have dire physical risks and side effects) …”
“From a personal standpoint,” she noted, “much of what bothered me concerning Act 251, from what I have read and from what I have heard, concerns the lack of transparency which seemingly occurred in order to enact it. I believe that caused a lot of unnecessary division, anger, and problems of trust within our state's profession as a whole, which does not strengthen the public's perception of our capabilities.”
Regarding supervision of interns, she explained that if the intern is to pursue a career only as a medical psychologist, and “… will become licensed under the medical board, … it would make sense.”
“… however, I would think that it could potentially be a problem for the young, aspiring psychologist who ultimately needs to be licensed by LSBEP, and not to the medical board.” She explained that it would make sense for an intern who has no interest in becoming a medical psychologist to be supervised by a regular psychologist who is licensed under the psychology board.
This article is part of a historical newspaper archive. Read the original issue for its original layout, photographs and graphics.
On July 24, 2012, the attorney for the Licensed Professional Counselors Board of Examiners sent a letter to the Executive Director of the psychology board, Ms. Kelly Parker, saying that she improperly testified regarding SB 216. SB 216 was a successful effort by LPCs to remove restrictions of a consultation and collaboration clause when LPCs treat individuals with serious mental illness.
In the July 24, 2012, letter, authored by LPC Board General Council, Mr. Steve Adams, wrote:
“The Louisiana Licensed Professional Counselors Board of Examiners was surprised that you, as a paid representative of your Board, actively lobbied against, and testified against, SB 216 at the Senate Health and Welfare Committee hearing on April 25, 2012. “We believe that this action was improper, unethical and possibly illegal, in that you utilized state funds to openly attempt to influence the outcome of legislation pending before the Legislature. “Louisiana RS 28:56 (F), provides as follows: F. No state employee in his official capacity or on behalf of his employer shall lobby for or against any matter intended to have the effect of law pending before the legislature or any committee thereof. Nothing herein shall prohibit the dissemination of factual information relative to any such matter or the use of public meeting rooms or meeting facilities available to all citizens to lobby for or against any such matter. “You appear to have violated this provision when you filled out the Committee's "red cards", and actively testified against the bill. “As a courtesy to you and your Board. we are attempting to resolve this issue Informally before referring this matter to appropriate state agencies for their review. and action. “We would appreciate a response to the concerns stated herein.”
In a letter dated August 2, 2012, Council for the psychology board, Mr. Loyd Lunceford, wrote back saying:
[…] “Your letter asserts that Ms. Parker engaged in action that you believe is ‘improper, unethical, and possibly illegal’, by ‘utilize(ing) state funds to openly attempt to influence the outcome of legislation pending before the Legislature.’ “You quote a provision (incorrectly cited as R.S. 28:56(F) but properly cited as La. R.S. 24:56(F)), which provides that no state employee in his official capacity or on behalf of his employer shall lobby for or against a matter pending before the Legislature. “Respectfully, your allegations against Ms. Parker are unwarranted. No state funds were utilized. The LSBEP does not receive state funds. Its budget, including Ms. Parker's salary, is entirely funded from licensing application fees and renewal fees . See La. R.S. 37:2353(G). Additionally, Ms. Parker does not qualify as a ‘lobbyist’ as that term is defined at La. R.S. 24:51(5)(a)(i) and (ii). Lobbying does not constitute one of the principal duties of Ms. Parker's employment. ‘Principal duty’ is defined at R.S. 24:51 (8) as any duty which is expected to account for 20% or more of a person's time in fulfilling the terms of his or her engagement. Ms. Parker's job duties as they relate to pending legislation do not come anywhere near the 20% threshold. Ms. Parker's testimony at the Senate Health and Welfare Committee hearing on April 25, 2012 was unanticipated, prompted by someone else's unexpected absence, and peripheral to her normal duties as LSBEP Executive Director. Because she does not meet the statutory definition of ‘lobbyist’, she was not engaged in ‘lobbying’. “As you know, representatives of state licensing boards, including those representing your client (the LPC Board), often appear in committee to testify concerning pending legislation. Cards sometimes filled out in haste may not always accurately reflect the substance of the testimony. I note, for example, that Dr. Cecelia Mouton, Director of Investigations for the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners, filled out cards on April 25th both ‘in opposition’ and ‘for information only’ regarding SB 216. When Ms. Parker appeared in committee on April 25th she was acting in a manner consistent with the responsibilities of the LSBEP. The LSBEP does not advocate for the special interests of a particular profession but serves the health and welfare of the general public by licensing those who wish to engage in the authorized practice of psychology, regulating those who are so licensed, and policing against the unlicensed practice of psychology. Of course, any comments provided for informational purposes (irrespective of the color of the card that was filled out), will in the minds of legislators necessarily have implications that bear on the merits of legislation under consideration. However, this does not convert everyone who testifies into a lobbyist as that term is defined in Louisiana law. “The LSBEP thanks you for bringing your concerns to its attention.
Going forward, it will continue to be mindful, as it has been, of the provisions of Title 24.”
Then on September 27, Adams wrote back, saying:
“Thank you for your letter of August 12 [sic], 2012 relative to the above matter. We certainly do not agree with the legal conclusions you reached, we will not take any further action on the incident in question at this time. “R.S. 24:51, quoted by you, provides only relative to who meets the definition of ‘lobbying’ for purposes of mandatory lobbyist registration. “It does not address the issue of whether your client violated the ban on any lobbying which utilizes state funds. LSBEP operates on ‘State funds’, even though they may be self-generated. Accordingly, we will bring any further activity of this nature to the attention of the Inspector General and/or the Board of Ethics for appropriate action.”
Then on October 4, 2012, Lunceford writes:
“Thank you for your letter of September 27th. My client will not be intimidated by your threats. If my client was in violation of any statute I'm sure you would have cited it, but your letter was notably silent in this regard. You concede that R.S. 24:51 was not violated, but attempt to dismiss it by asserting that it pertains only to mandatory lobbyist registration. That is incorrect. The only definition for a "lobbyist'' found anywhere throughout the Louisiana Revised Statutes is found at R.S. 24:51(5)(a)(i) and (ii)-and Ms. Parker clearly does not fit that definition. “If you know of any other legally controlling definition of a ‘lobbyist’ in Louisiana, please cite me the statute. Otherwise, your energies would better be directed to advising your own client to follow the advice you would give mine, inasmuch as members of the LPC Board have over the years repeatedly testified in committee advocating for or against pending bills.”
Editor’s note: The issue was documented in the LPC board’s minutes and the Times requested the letters. The LPC board provided them to the Times as a matter of public record.
This article is part of a historical newspaper archive. Read the original issue for its original layout, photographs and graphics.
Originally published: . Volume 4, No. 5. Source pages: 9.
Dr. Janet B. Ruscher, past Chair of the Tulane Psychology Depart- ment and currently Associate Dean for Graduate Programs in Tulane’s School of Science and Engineering, spoke with Dr. Joseph E. Steinmetz in his Presidential Column in the APS Observer, December 2012.
Dr. Ruscher and colleague Dr. Neil Rowland from the University of Florida, shared their experiences in leading their departments of psychology, in Steinmetz’ column titled, “From Where the Chair Sits.”
Ruscher said challenges for department heads include the large numbers enrolled in psychology courses. But, Ruscher explained, that if one asks a colleague what she was busy doing, “one hears not only about these obvious responsibilities but also about the nearly invisible – and certainly under- acknowledged – activities that cumulatively devour an academic psychologist’s time.”
In this list Ruscher included: colleagues outside of psychology who ask for statistical advice, those who ask for strategies to address program evaluations for grant proposals, and colleagues who ask for comments on STEM initiatives.
She also included that department chairs are to play a leadership role in “service learning and internships, coverage of behavioral medicine to address the new MCAT, and both new and classic interdisciplinary initiatives such as social entrepreneurship and neuroscience.”
Author Steinmetz notes that it is clear that scientific psychologists at universities make a “significant impact on the life of those institutions.”
Ruscher said, “These contributions to the university are akin to dark matter in the universe: critical to structure and function but overlooked, underestimated, and even doubted by current standards.”
“Personally, I would not trade the chaos of relevance for the tranquility of the inconsequential,” Dr. Ruscher told Steinmetz.
Dr. Janet B. Ruscher served as the Chair of the Psychology Department at Tulane until last year when she accepted the Associate Dean position. Her research work involves social cognition, prejudice, and language. The article can be read in full at the APS website.
This article is part of a historical newspaper archive. Read the original issue for its original layout, photographs and graphics.
Originally published: . Volume 4, No. 5. Source pages: 9.
Dr. Ivory Toldson died suddenly on Tuesday, December 25, 2012. He died of cardiac problems at 4:15 pm.
Dr. Toldson was a psychologist and active member of the Louisiana Psychological Association and respected colleague and friend. During his rich and extended career, he was professor at Southern University and became the Dean of the College of Education. He was a licensed psychologist and started the Center for Psychological Health Care as a home-based psychology practice, expanding to a full range of outpatient and residential services.
The Times will publish a complete obituary in our February issue.
This article is part of a historical newspaper archive. Read the original issue for its original layout, photographs and graphics.