Article archive / October 1, 2010

Originally published: October 1, 2010. Volume 2, No. 2. Source pages: 1, 7, 8.

“God, in his infinite wisdom, gave him a special capability,” said Gloria Hearn of her husband George– psychologist, professor, minister, father and beloved colleague to many in the Louisiana community. Speaking to the Times, she was remarking on George’s exceptional ability to gently navigate through human problems, respectfully assisting people in resolving conflicts and healing rifts.

Delivering a eulogy at his service, long-time friend and colleague Dr. Darlyne Nemeth called him a “gentle genius.” She said, “Dr. Hearn’s ability to develop workable, practical solutions in even the most contentious atmosphere was truly amazing.” In the midst of turmoil and conflict, “…Dr. Hearn, a gifted organizational psychologist, would gently, and with the fewest of words, suggest a brilliant compromise. Before long, reason prevailed and harmony was restored. Oftentimes, both sides would leave believing that they had solved the problem. Dr. Hearn never sought credit, nor did he seek the limelight. He was content to have facilitated the solution.”

Wife Gloria said, “He would know just how to moderate. It was his skill–he was an IO psychologist. He’d say, ‘We need to talk about it.’ He’d know just how to keep order, keep them focused, letting everyone talk.” Gloria said that she believed George might have been led to develop this talent in part because of the loss of a younger brother at a pivotal point in George’s life. “He developed a strong dedication to listen to people,” she said.

George E. Hearn was born September 21st, 1926 and died September 11th shortly before his 84th birthday. His health had been flagging since he suffered a fall at home last year and complications of recent treatments placed him in a critical condition from which he was not able to recover.

A long time member of the psychological community, George had earned his doctorate in industrial psychology from Baylor University in 1965. He was the first industrial-organizational psychologist licensed in Louisiana, with license #150 in 1968. He was a member of the American Psychological Association and the American Psychological Society.

He was a life member of Louisiana Psychological Association and had received the Distinguished Psychologist Award from the association. Dr. Kelly Pears, friend and colleague said, “It will be strange not seeing George at LPA. It just won’t be the same without him.”

Dr. Tom Stigall said, “It is a great loss. He was a fine gentleman and a dedicated psychologist."

From 1965 to 2000 George served Louisiana College (Pineville) as Full Professor and Chairman of the Department of Psychology. He also was in independent practice at his firm, Hearn & Hearn, and was known for his skills as mediator in groups and organizations through his work.

His focus in IO had begun while in graduate school, serving as Assistant to the Head of the Industrial Division, Executive Appraisals and Employee Selection at Baylor University. At Baylor George also worked in the research projects supporting the NASA Space Program.

But he blended his technical knowledge with his enduring respect and faith in people and the course of human events. This early interest was portrayed by his choice of an undergraduate in history, a masters in history, and another masters in theology.

Before he returned for his doctorate, George was an ordained minister, pastor of Laurel Heights and Ford Park Baptist churches in Shreveport from 1948 to 1961.

George’s willingness to help and give of himself was also apparent in his extensive community service. He was member and president of the Historical Association of Central Louisiana, member and chairman of Rapides Area Planning Commission, and Alderman for Pineville City Council. He served honorably in the United States Navy during World War II.

George served on the Louisiana State Board of Examiners of Psychologists from 1982 to 1988, including as chair.

“At that time there was no office, no phone number, just a post office box,” said Darlyne Nemeth. “Before long, Dr. Hearn had arranged an office, hired appropriate personnel, and restructured the Board completely,” she noted. Wife Gloria said, “They first started on the board and he would start on Friday and come in on Sunday exhausted. He’d say, ‘There is a better way to do this.’”

Those who knew him well understood him to be a man of deep faith, wisdom and enduring patience. An excerpt from his obituary written by his family and friends notes:

“He used his keen analytical mind to consider what was truly important in life and to focus his abilities and energies toward those, being relationships to God, family, others, work and community.

He never sought recognition for himself but rather for the group and others. His proudest accomplishments were as father and family man. He spent quality time with his children and family… his main goal in life was to honor God and to encourage others to develop all their innate abilities for service as God directs them individually.

He would want his homegoing to be a time and opportunity for folks to think about reconciliation, love and respect as paramount values in life.”

George is survived by his wife Gloria, “who was still his sweetheart after 54 years of marriage.”

He and Gloria are the proud parents of daughter Gail Hearn Smith and their late son, George Eugene “Gene” Hearn.

A touching memorial video with pictures of George, family and friends, and things he loved, can be viewed until the middle of October online at http://www.hixsonbrothers.com/index.cfm

The Times publisher wishes to thank Mrs. Gloria Hearn, Dr. Darlyne Nemeth and Dr. Kelly Pears for their help with this article.

Dr. George Hearn with Madeline Nemeth on left and wife Gloria on right, at the happy occasion of Madeline’s engagement party. Photo courtesy of Dr. Darlyne Nemeth

Top: George with NASA Research Group at Baylor. Left, high school football. Photos courtesy of Mrs. Gloria Hearn.

This article is part of a historical newspaper archive. Read the original issue for its original layout, photographs and graphics.

Article archive / October 1, 2010

Originally published: October 1, 2010. Volume 2, No. 2. Source pages: 16.

Louisiana Psychological Association (LPA) is inviting new members to join for 2011 and enjoy the fourth quarter of 2010 free, as well as receive certain discounts in conference fees at the Fall Meeting on October 23rd, according to Executive Director Ms. Gail Lowe.

Membership chair Dr. Brandon Romano, told the Times, “The Louisiana Psychological Association affords all of its members the opportunity to establish lasting professional relationships and provides ample opportunity for networking and career development.”

He noted that one of the benefits is the educational opportunity “…emphasizing the most current practices applicable to the field of psychology.”

Executive Director Gail Lowe said that new members could complete applications on the website (http://www.louisianapsych ologist.org/) or reach her at 225-766-0185 or more information.

This article is part of a historical newspaper archive. Read the original issue for its original layout, photographs and graphics.

Article archive / October 1, 2010

Originally published: October 1, 2010. Volume 2, No. 2. Source pages: 1, 4.

The “Behavioral Health Professional Working Group,” met on September 16th, 2010 at the Bienville Building (Department of Health and Hospitals). Members continued a discussion of the similarities and differences in aspects of the participants’ professions.

The group was created by a Senate Concurrent Resolution (SCR 100) and includes psychologists and counselors. The resolution, passed in June this year, requested members to work together in a collaborative way to “Develop language for legislation to clarify the licensed professional counselor scope of practice …” along with other objectives.

Co-chair Mike Gootee, Governmental Relations Chair from the Louisiana Counseling Association, presided over the agenda.

Drs. Joe Comaty and Tony Young, chair and vice chair of the Psychology Board, and Drs. Jessica Brown and Darla Burnett, representing the Louisiana Psychological Association, attended the meeting.

Representing the Louisiana Professional Counselors Board of Examiners were Drs. Gloria Bockrath and June Williams. Cindy Nardini attended, representing the Louisiana Counselors Association. Jacqueline Shellington from the state board for social work and Dr. Robert Marier from the medical board also were in attendance.

The agenda included a review of social work practice regulations by Jacqueline Shellington. She explained “multi- level licensure is generally standard across most states.” She reviewed the core competencies for those in social work and answered a number of questions from participants.

Dr. Robert Marier explained the requirements for physicians to practice, certification and training, and the movement toward a “maintenance competency model.” He discussed board certification in psychiatry and noted that physicians can treat mental illness. However he said, “We take a dim view of people who practice outside of their competency.”

The meeting continued with a “scope of practice comparison.” Participants provided handouts to help compare and contrast the different disciplines and regulations.

Dr. Comaty gave a history of the psychology licensing law first passed in 1964. He explained that at that time psychologists could not diagnose without consultation with a physician. He noted that it wasn’t until 1976 that this requirement was removed.

Mike Gootee said, “That seems to explain why psychology sees it the way they do.” And, “This is what your profession of psychology has established, and we have two professions here that view it differently.” Dr. Marier stated that it was how the legislature views the matter that would be the deciding factor.

Cindy Nardini commented toward the end of the meeting, “We were very close to the meat of the matter a while ago.” She suggested that the group may have avoided the main issue and said, “I hope we can take that up next time.”

In addition to developing certain language, the Senate asked the group to “Identify the common and distinct practice activities of the two professions and develop new collaborative practice methods … ” And also to make recommendations to expand public access to behavioral health services in the state.

Behavioral Health Working Group at their 9/16 meeting.

Top: Michael Gootee (L) co-chair of the Working Group, and Dr. Robert Marier, Executive Director of medical board discuss regulations. Bottom: Dr. Jessica Brown (L) and Dr. Joe Comaty listen to Jacqueline Shellington from the social work board describe regulations and standards for her professional group.

This article is part of a historical newspaper archive. Read the original issue for its original layout, photographs and graphics.

Article archive / September 1, 2010

Originally published: September 1, 2010. Volume 2, No. 1. Source pages: 3.

Dr. Carrie Wyland, a social psychology Professor of Practice at Tulane taught class this summer in Sydney, Australia. In a joint effort of the Tulane Center of Public Service and University of Western Sydney, Dr. Wyland assisted students in completing service hours while learning about another culture.

In an August 5th article by Fran Simon in Tulane’s New Wave, Carrie was noted to say, “The focus of this program is on how groups interact, how people start to formulate identity within a group and within the larger community.” Wyland said to New Wave. “I can teach all sorts of things about diversity, inter-group relations and other people in the classroom, but it’s not until they’re in that world that students understand it.” And she noted, “Sydney is similar to New Orleans in that it is a city with a lot of wonderful cultural diversity yet, unfortunately, there is still some conflict surrounding that diversity, so there’s an interesting parallel between the cities.”

Dr. Wyland’s research interests at Tulane include biases related to self-esteem, social cognitive neuroscience, and also emotion.

Dr. Carrie Wyland, left, is a Tulane psychology Professor of Practice, who led students on a service- learning experience in Australia. From left are Joy Wan, Karen Bernstein and Sarah Javier. (Photo by Emily Brabeck. Article by F. Simon,Tulane New Wave.)

This article is part of a historical newspaper archive. Read the original issue for its original layout, photographs and graphics.

Article archive / September 1, 2010

Originally published: September 1, 2010. Volume 2, No. 1. Source pages: 4.

The Medical Psychology Advisory Committee will meet at 9:00 am on Monday, September 13th, at the Neuromedical Center, 10101 Park Rowe Avenue, Suite 200, 2nd Floor Conference Room.

Members of the Committee are James Quillin PhD, MP, Chair, Glenn Ally, PhD., MP, secretary treasurer, Warren C Lowe PhD, MP, John Bolter PhD, MP, and Robert Marier MD ex officio.

On September 16, 2009 the group met and reviewed a draft of rules and elected Dr. Quillin as Chair, Dr. Anita Kablinger, MD, Vice Chair, and Dr. Ally as Secretary.

Minutes from the January 5, 2010 meeting noted that they convened in executive session to consider applications for “certificates of advanced practice as a matter of the character, professional competence, or physical or mental health of an applicant…” They approved for the advanced certificates the following: Drs. Ally, Bolter, Lowe and Quillin, and Dr. Cathy Castille, Dr. Robert Davis, and Dr. Thomas Fain.

The MPAC also met February 11 and May 3, but no minutes have been posted for these meetings as yet on the Medical Board’s website.

This article is part of a historical newspaper archive. Read the original issue for its original layout, photographs and graphics.

Article archive / September 1, 2010

Originally published: September 1, 2010. Volume 2, No. 1. Source pages: 4.

Dr. Alicia Pellegrin, a Baton Rouge psychologist recently took over the presidency of Grassroots Initiative, founded last year for the reform and revitalization of psychology in the state. She replaces

Pellegrin relaxes in gardens in Aries, France. Dr. Mike Chafetz enjoys a bit of cake served at the Pro-Party in April 2010.

This article is part of a historical newspaper archive. Read the original issue for its original layout, photographs and graphics.

Article archive / September 1, 2010

Originally published: September 1, 2010. Volume 2, No. 1. Source pages: 1, 6.

Dr. Suzanne Chabaud will appear in the season premier of A&E’s captivating series Hoarders, airing on Labor Day, September 6th at 9:00 pm central time on A&E. This will be Suzanne’s 11th filmed episode. A licensed clinical psychologist in New Orleans, she consults with the show’s producers to help hoarders while giving viewers an inside look at the lives of those struggling with Compulsive Hoarding Disorder.

In this year’s season premier Suzanne will be working with Sir Patrick, whose fanciful Camelot is hoarded with "treasures." Two weeks later Dr. Chabaud will appear in another episode with a hoarder named Vula, who “…is an extreme or severe compulsive hoarder, whose home was toxic,” Suzanne told the Times. “She hoards every kind of thing imaginable, including cats- Maine Coons, who eliminated all over her terrain of stuff."

The series helps viewers understand how this disorder !affects “…virtually every psychological, sensory and

perceptual process, and frequently the physical health of people who live in hoarded homes,” Suzanne explained. “It affects the development of children and the entire health of families. It affects neighbors who often fear the effects of a hoarded home that threaten their property safety and value. It can! also require costly interventions by code enforcement, child protection, humane societies, fire fighters, and so on.”

Suzanne noted the episode with Vula reveals "the far reaches of this disorder into a community, a disorder that would seem so private and personal.”

While Suzanne experiences the joys of hoarders on the show who make progress, she noted that it is always sad when those, who have received intensive help during the filming and offered aftercare with therapists and organizers, fall back into destructive patterns. She said, “Anyone who has worked with this disorder knows that, even with optimal interventions, progress is tenuous.”!

“What is rewarding for me,” Suzanne

said, “is the increase in people seeking help for compulsive hoarding. Destigmatization of this mystifying !disorder !is encouraging. More people are getting help.”

Dr. Chabaud has opened! “The Gate,” a treatment and research facility! in a large historic home on Dante Street in New Orleans. This effort is part of the Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Institute of Greater New Orleans, where she and colleague Tim Kershenstine, Ph.D., treat OCD and hoarding through outpatient treatment, intensive day treatment and! educational client-groups. They will soon be offering professional workshops.

“One objective of the institute,” she explained, “is to destigmatize the disorders of OCD and compulsive hoarding by providing services and education for the public and professionals.” They are excited she said, “…to create an openness in the community about two disorders that sufferers rarely speak about.”

Since Suzanne began her extensive work with A&E, she has learned first hand about hoarding. “At the base of my home's attic stairs,” she said, “I have watched piles of one year of decorations, off- season clothing and a sundry of stuff accumulate. The good news is that my Halloween decorations are ready for installation again, that is, if I can separate them from the hurricane readiness supplies.”

Dr. Chabaud can be contacted directly at schabaud@msn.com.

One of the most popular stories of the past year was Dr. Suzanne Chabaud’s work on the A&E series Hoarders. Above she wears a mask at a hoarder’s home. Dr. Chabaud will appear in the Season Premier this Labor Day, on A&E at 8:00 pm Central. See full story page six. Photo courtesy of A&E.

Sir Patrick and Dr. Suzanne Chabaud on Season Premier of Hoarders, Labor Day.

Photo courtesy of A&E.

This article is part of a historical newspaper archive. Read the original issue for its original layout, photographs and graphics.

Article archive / September 1, 2010

Originally published: September 1, 2010. Volume 2, No. 1. Source pages: 7.

In the minds of many psychologists, Health Psychology is the application of clinical psychology services provided in a health care facility to clients who are primarily medical patients. But this is just a facet of health psychology–it is much more. Health psychology, also the name of an academic discipline, is the scientific study of the psychological factors and physical health. The impact of behavior on health, the study of the healthcare delivery system, and the psychological sequella of physical illness, are just a few avenues of investigation that concerns the health psychology field.

Among Louisiana’s psychologists who identify themselves as Health Psychologists is Linda Brannon, PhD, psychology professor at McNeese State University in Lake Charles. Dr. Brannon has devoted much of her professional life to research, writing and teaching in the field of health psychology. Her books have been translated into languages as diverse as Korean and Polish, making her an international, as well as a national expert in the field. Her popular textbyook, Health Psychology: An Introduction to Behavior and Health is in its 7th edition and is credited for its scholarship and balanced coverage of cognitive, behavioral and biological factors that affect human health.

Dr. Brannon has also linked her work in health psychology with her work in gender. Her book Gender: Psychological Perspectives is coming out this October in a 6th edition.

Studies of gender may not intuitively surface when one thinks of health psychology, yet gender constitutes an important factor in health care and psychology. Gender specific hormones and chromosomes have determining influences on both health and psychological function. Conversely, psychological functioning and behavior influence hormone secretions and the expression of genes, which in turn can influence affect and motivate behavior. Sexual function most obviously exemplifies this confluence of body and mind, biological functioning, psychological well-being, and differences between men and women.

Understanding gender, psychology and health helps to shine a light on this broad, rich field but still highlights only the surface.

Scientists and clinicians observe differences between the genders in the expression of their mental health problems and the biological sequella. Health concerns common for women such as infertility, breast cancer, or menstrual disorders can have a profound effect on psychological well-being. For men, cardiovascular health, erectile dysfunction, and prostate cancer have analogous reciprocating influences, body to mind, mind to body. For example we know that men can have breast cancer, but with a different psychological impact. Today, women are increasingly prone to stress related illnesses and cardiovascular disease, previously thought to belong almost solely to men.

Cultural demands, socially prescribed roles, and gender identity can come into play. For example, depression and eating disorders are psychological disorders commonly bringing women into psychological treatment and have a profound effect on their physical health. But, recent observations show an increase in depression and eating disorders among men, or perhaps less gender bias in diagnosing male patients with these disorders.

We can thank health psychologists like Dr. Brannon for bringing these realities to our awareness and continually updating our knowledge through their research.

Please send your questions and comments about health psychology to cweyand@cooper.net.

This article is part of a historical newspaper archive. Read the original issue for its original layout, photographs and graphics.

Article archive / September 1, 2010

Originally published: September 1, 2010. Volume 2, No. 1. Source pages: 8.

“After hurricane Katrina, things were really in a mess,” said Dr. Beverly A. Stubblefield, a clinical psychologist in Slidell, Louisiana. “People’s lives were in disarray, nothing was the same, and anxiety became a normal feeling.” She noted that during those days more children began to experience feelings of insecurity, phobias increased, and families disintegrated.

It was at that same time that Beverly brought into being The Equestrian Therapy Center of Slidell. “ Most people are familiar with therapeutic riding for the handicapped,” she said. “But our Center had adapted a different approach—EAGALA—Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association’s nontraditional therapy techniques—for the primary presenting problems of anxiety,

mood disorders, marital discord, and pervasive developmental disorders.”

“In Equine Assisted Psycho- therapy,” she explained, “horses are used in a similar fashion as in play therapy to improve patients’ well-being and lifestyle functioning.” And she noted, “This type of therapy tends to effect behavior change more rapidly than more traditional forms of psychotherapy.”

Presently, The Equestrian Therapy Center treats adults and children who present a host of diagnoses from Asperger’s Syndrome and Pick’s Disease to Bipolar Disorder and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. The primary goals are to stabilize mood, develop self-esteem, improve social skills, and help individuals accept everyday responsibilities.

According to Beverly, the therapeutic mechanism includes the fact that horses are large animals and some patients may not be comfortable around them initially. However, overcoming their fear adds confidence and completing tasks and obstacles improves self-esteem.

Other animals are also used with many patients at the Center. “People respond differently to the cats and dog depending upon their age and diagnosis,” she said. “So pretty much anyone can participate in therapy at the Center.”

Beverly explained that the feedback is quite positive. Parents and children report that equestrian therapy has helped improve self- efficacy, coping abilities, behavior problems, and stress. The horse work teaches characteristics like trust, loyalty, responsibility, and friendship. “Self-esteem is built when one overcomes fears and challenges presented with the horses,” she said. “These herd animals simulate human social

groups so social skills, cooperation, and patience are dynamic in equine assisted psychotherapy.”

Young campers have experienced good success in the program, said Beverly. “One camper reported it this way. ‘In horse camp I learned to fish, I learned how to ride horses, I don’t think about stuff anymore. I’m happy that I’m not thinking about stuff anymore and I like school much more.’ Her mother reported that she has learned to control her anxiety and not become upset and uncontrollable.”

“A young man who developed Trichotillomania and fear of storms spontaneously reported in camp this summer that he is no longer afraid of storms. He told us, ‘The horses taught me how to not be afraid.’

“If you can control an 800 pound horse,” said Dr. Beverly Stubblefield, “you can accomplish anything!”

To learn more about The Equestrian Therapy Center of Slidell, its programs and research, contact Dr. Stubblefield at 32597 CC Road, Slidell, Louisiana 70460, 985-641-4934, or drbeverly@charter.net.

Photos courtesy of ETC. Subjects are not clients.

This article is part of a historical newspaper archive. Read the original issue for its original layout, photographs and graphics.

Article archive / September 1, 2010

Originally published: September 1, 2010. Volume 2, No. 1. Source pages: 9, 10.

The political issues surrounding Act 251 created much of the news reported over the past year. The following are some events covered in the Times.

• July 1st 2009 the governor signed Act 251 into law, transferring the regulation of medical psychology, and the practice of psychology by medical psychologists, to the state medical board.

• Louisiana Academy of Medical Psychologists (LAMP) designed the bill in collaboration with the state medical board. LAMP leaders viewed the legislation as a success, “formally integrating their RxP expertise with medicine.” And saying, “The Eagle has landed.”

• At a conference in November, 2009 Dr. Quillin explained the reason for 251 was a “moral issue,” based on the realization that the practice of medical psychology had evolved into something more than it was originally designed to be. He said that 251 created a “new, hybrid healthcare profession.”

• The LSBEP was never officially contacted or consulted about Act 251 by those designing the bill. Four of five board members were MPs and believed to be members of LAMP.

• Dr. Glenn Ally, MP and Chair of Legislative Affairs for the psychology board reported on April 10, 2009 that “there was not anticipated to be any legislation presented at the 2009 Regular Session that would affect LSBEP”.

• On May 8, 2009, Dr. Ally brought Act 251 to the attention of the board. It was discussed and the board asked their attorney for an opinion. By the following meeting (June 12) Ally reported that 251 had been sent to the governor.

• In a call to APA Practice Directorate they indicated that they had not been consulted about 251, and that it was “very unusual for APA not to be involved.” They stated they recommend against dual regulation of psychology. APA has taken no formal position either for or against 251.

• In July 09 Dr. James Childerston, President of the Academy of Medical Psychology (AMP) and President of the American Board of Medical Psychology (ABMP) wrote the Louisiana Attorney General and objected to the restriction in the use of the term “Medical Psychologist.”

• Non-MP psychologists in LPA were taken by surprise by the passage of Act 251. A flurry of postings and

debate began in June 09 on the LPA listserv. A member wrote, “And the #1 reason to pay your LPA dues– So you can continue to watch, or even participate in the firework show on the list-serv.”

• Gradually it became clear that LPA officials, mostly medical psychologists (MPs), had known about Act 251 but had followed instructions from LAMP to remain silent for political reasons. Dr. Jim Quillin was both chair of legislative affairs for LPA and a key figure in negotiations with the medical board.

• Questions arose about LAMP’s lobbyists Courson & Nickel, who were also the lobbyists for Louisiana Psychological Association (LPA) at that time.

• LSBEP sent a list of questions regarding dual regulation, among other things, to the state Attorney General. No reply has been received as yet.

• Reports indicated that APA had supplied over $527,700 to LPA during the last decade. Dr. Tom Hannie commented, “In short, APA and LPA funds were used to create a new profession.”

• By August 09 frustrated LPA members formed “Grassroots Initiative” in response.

• Writing on behalf of Grassroots, Dr. Kim VanGeffen asked LPA to apply for an emergency grant from APA to fund defensive actions against Act 251. No response was received.

• Drs. Ally and Dammers resigned from the LSBEP, effective for September and December 09.

• Responding to a call in September 09, APA Practice Directorate personnel said that they were not aware of any other state where the practice of psychology is regulated by the state medical board.

• In September Dr. Julie Nelson published the first issue of The Psychology Times.

• Pressures caused both those supporting and those opposing 251 to seek help from parliamentarian Alan Jennings. He refused to work with either “faction” alone, and both agreed to work together in the state association.

• Late 2009, Medical psychologists files were prepared for transfer from the LSBEP in January. The Medical Psychology Advisory Committee was being developed with Drs. Quillin, Lowe, Ally and Bolter as members.

• A statewide election was held in December to fill three vacancies on the board. Six names were submitted to the governor. None were MPs.

• In November, Dr. Susan Dardard submitted a resolution to the EC to establish a bylaws revision committee. It passed. Alan Jennings commented, “I’m engaged by LPA because there are complex questions for the association to decide and an internal climate of impassioned division of opinion.”

• In LPA the first official response to problems came on December 13th, with a town hall meeting called by then President Judith Levy. Drs. Quillin and Lowe were absent. Conflict arose over the contract with lobbyists Courson & Nickel.

• Around February Drs. Quillin and Lowe resigned their LPA positions. Dr. Jessica Brown took over in legislative affairs and LPA hired a new lobbying firm.

• In their February the board of directors of the Association of Medical Psychology, a national group, told its members that maintaining a license to practice psychology from their state board was required for board certification in medical psychology.

• In March 2010, Dr. Tony Young was appointed to the LSBEP. Dr. Dammers was “reappointed.” This reappointment was questioned by Grassroots. Dr. Dammers then re-resigned. Top vote getter Dr. John Simoneaux was then appointed. Dr. Rita Culross was appointed to the third and final opening on the board.

• In April LPA members passed the bylaws changes by a seemingly unanimous vote at the convention, making the organization more representative and limiting the power of the president.

• In April Dr. Jerry Suls, President of APA Division 38 (Health Psychology) and Divisional Task Force on Medical Psychology & RxP, wrote to all APA division presidents and called for them to request APA to conduct a “thorough investigation” of Louisiana’s new statute.

• The Interdivisional Healthcare Committee (IHC), a group of representatives from seven APA divisions, published a list of concerns about Act 251. The authors called for action by three APA bodies.

• CAPP made a statement opposing the use of the term ‘medical psychologist’ exclusively by psychologists with prescriptive authority.” Division 55 concurred in a later statement.

• In May 2010 at the end of the legislative session, Dr. Simoneaux was not confirmed, surprising and disappointing many. Dr. Lee Matthews was immediately appointed by the governor.

• The Times publisher asked questions about 251 and reported on the board’s presentation in April 2010. This prompted complaints about her methods of reporting from the Vice Chair. She wrote back, and then spoke at the board meeting about ethics. A follow-up written inquiry about the events surrounding the board and Act 251 from the Times was answered by the board, but provided little additional information.

Dr. James Quillin (L) and Dr. Mike Chafetz discussing Act 251 at NAN presentation. Dr. Quillin explained that MP practice had evolved past its original design.

Members of the state association voted in April 2010 for a more democratic organization.

This article is part of a historical newspaper archive. Read the original issue for its original layout, photographs and graphics.

Article archive / September 1, 2010

Originally published: September 1, 2010. Volume 2, No. 1. Source pages: 15.

Dr. Tom Hannie will moderate a forum, “Same Sex Marriage: Is it a Church-State Issue?” presented by the Americans United for Separation of Church and State. The forum will take place on September 14th, at 7:00 pm at the Unitarian-Universalist Church on Goodwood Blvd in Baton Rouge.

Presenters will include Mr. Joe Traigle, president and CEO of Sterling Group, Inc. Mr. Traigle holds an MBA and has served as Secretary of Revenue for the State of Louisiana, president and chairman of Great American Corporation, and is a past chairman of the Louisiana Public Broadcasting Board and also the Greater Baton Rouge Area Chamber of Commerce.

Also presenting will be Professor John Devlin of the LSU Law Center, and is the William Hawk Daniels Professor of Law. Professor Devlin, whose early research focused on state constitutional law, has taught in the field of federal, state, and comparative constitutional law, federal civil procedure, and employment law.

This article is part of a historical newspaper archive. Read the original issue for its original layout, photographs and graphics.

Article archive / September 1, 2010

Originally published: September 1, 2010. Volume 2, No. 1. Source pages: 15.

The Mississippi Psychological Assocation will host their 61st Annual Convention in Biloxi next week, September 8th through 10th. The theme is “Transcendent Psychology- Everywhere You Look. In Everything We Do.”

This year’s presenters include Kim Gratz, Ph.D. (“Targeting Emotion Regulation: Treatment Applications and Research Support”), Michael Roberts, Ph.D. (“Civil Commitment Workshop & Exam”), Stephen Behnke, J.D., Ph.D. (“Ethics and Ethical Decision making for Psychologists: A vignette-based approach”), and David Ballard, Psy.D., MBA (“Bringing Psychology to the People Through Professionally Appropriate Marketing and Communication”).

Louisiana psychologist Dr. Beverly Stubblefield will present some of her research from the Equestrian Therapy Center in a poster session at the convention on September 9th, titled “Are Horses or Cats Better Therapists?” She told the Times that the results are inconclusive at this point in her studies. However she said, “Cats are good therapists but poor research subjects!”

Online registration for Mississippi’s convention can be found at www.mpassoc.org.

This article is part of a historical newspaper archive. Read the original issue for its original layout, photographs and graphics.

Article archive / September 1, 2010

Originally published: September 1, 2010. Volume 2, No. 1. Source pages: 1, 3.

A group of LPA members, who are also Grassroots members, developed a resolution and petition and began an effort to seek support of others in the state regarding the regulation of psychology.

In an open letter posted to the Grassroots listserv, spokesperson Dr. Susan Dardard noted, “Concerns include that the existing law [Act 251] blurs professional boundaries, fails to differentiate between the philosophical traditions of psychology and medicine, and ignores the distinguished scientific foundation upon which psychology rests.”

She continued, “The new law also risks confusing a public that already has difficulty grasping the differences between a psychologist and a psychiatrist, and opens the door for legislation that would place all of psychology under

She noted that the authors of the resolution, and the follow-up petition, “believe that the best law for those trained in both the practice of psychology and in prescribing psychotropic medications would provide for two separate licenses, one that gives authority to LSBME to regulate pharmaceutical practices and one that maintains the authority of LSBEP to regulate psychological practices.”

She went on to remark that this model is one used by other professionals, when trained in two different fields.

She stated that the goal of this effort is to “re- establish psychology in Louisiana as a self- regulating profession, in which those practicing psychology are regulated by the psychology board, rather than any other profession, in this case medicine.”

“Having LPA adopt such a resolution,” she wrote, “would reaffirm that our state organization continues to have a strong commitment to the independence of the profession of psychology.”

“The belief is that this resolution will be amenable to all those taking a logical view of the matter, including the board of psychology,

the medical board, and both state organizations, without leading to conflict or opposition in those willing to give fair and thoughtful consideration.”

“The authors also believe that this resolution should be acceptable to medical psychologists whose prescribing activities would remain regulated by medicine as set forth in Act 251.”

This article is part of a historical newspaper archive. Read the original issue for its original layout, photographs and graphics.

Article archive / September 1, 2010

Originally published: September 1, 2010. Volume 2, No. 1. Source pages: 16.

Louisiana Psychological Association will host its Fall Meeting on October 23rd in Baton Rouge.

The conference will include a full-day continuing education workshop on “Record Retention.”

This year’s Fall Meeting will also include a “Science Track” for those interested in science and research advancements. Plans include LSU’s Dr. Julia Buckner who will chair a symposium on laboratory research. Also included will be a student poster session chaired by Dr. Theresa Wozencraft and a round table chaired by Tulane’s Dr. Marva Lewis. LA Tech’s Dr. Mary Livingston will direct a discussion on research dilemmas.

A full program for both tracks will be available in the October issue. Executive director Ms. Gail Lowe noted that details will be posted on LPA’s website when finalized. Visit www.louisianapsychologist.org for workshop description and registration information.

This article is part of a historical newspaper archive. Read the original issue for its original layout, photographs and graphics.

Article archive / September 1, 2010

Originally published: September 1, 2010. Volume 2, No. 1. Source pages: 1, 4.

Kenneth Feinberg spoke before Congress in July saying it was not likely that individual mental health claims would be covered in the $20 million fund from BP, drawing sharp criticism from many in mental health.

Speaking before the House Judiciary Committee he said, "If you start compensating purely mental anguish without a physical injury – anxiety, stress – we'll be getting millions of claims from people watching television." Feinberg also said, "You have to draw the line somewhere…”

His opinion drew criticism from National Alliance on Mental Illness, Mental Health America, and the president of the American Psychiatric Association.

According to the online news source ProPublica and a July 27th article, Feinberg’s opinion is consistent with liability law that requires a link of mental to physical injury.

Individual mental health claims are separate from BP’s policy on providing aid to states, which are requests for aid rather than claims. Louisiana’s requests have been ignored and mental health contacts are mounting, as was noted by Dr. Tony Speier, Deputy Assistant Secretary at DHH, in last month’s Times.

In Louisiana’s coastal communities, the stresses are changeable as situation continues. Dr. Clarence Bergeron, a psychologist practicing in Houma, told the Times last week that the issues are now more about the moratorium. He indicated that the moratorium might be doing as much or more damage to people’s well- being in his community than the direct impact of the oil release.

Mental Health America is coordinating advocacy efforts on Feinberg’s decision. Go to http://www.mentalhealthamerica.net/ Select “Action” then “Take Action Now” from menu.

This article is part of a historical newspaper archive. Read the original issue for its original layout, photographs and graphics.