Our Blog: Upward Alabama

Understanding Sleep Deprivation: Conditions, Prevalence, and Treatment

By Susan Rathmell, Ph.D.

Sleep Insomnia Nightmares Evidence-Based Psychotherapy

Posted: March 11, 2025

Despite his best intentions to get a good night's rest, "Charlie" frequently ends up sacrificing sleep, convinced that one more episode on his favorite streaming service or another scroll through social media won't hurt. The fatigue begins to creep in, manifesting as irritability, difficulty concentrating, and an overwhelming sense of heaviness during the day. Yet, Charlie brushes off these symptoms, attributing them to the hustle of life and the need to balance work and family. Little does he know that this cycle of sleep deprivation could lead to more serious health issues over time.

Thriving at School, at Work, and on Standardized Tests with a Disability: Reasonable Accommodations and Your Rights

By Misti Norton, Ph.D.

Reasonable Accommodation Evaluations

Posted: March 10, 2025

"Reasonable accommodations" refer to modifications that allow individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions. This can involve changes to the school or work environment, how tasks are completed, or how the hiring process is conducted. Individuals with conditions such as ADHD, Autism, OCD, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, and Sleep Disorders may require these accommodations to fully participate in school, the workforce, or important standardized tests (such as the ACT or the bar exam).

The Digital Disconnect: How Technology Creates Distance in Relationships

By Megan Keyes, Ph.D.

Couple Therapy

EFCT Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy

Posted: February 28, 2025

Technology and social media can impact intimate relationships in a myriad of ways: some good, some bad. Read more to learn how to use technology to enhance your intimacy.

Celebrate Love & Connection with Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT)

By Megan Keyes, Ph.D.

Couple's Therapy

Posted: February 13, 2025

Valentine’s Day is our designated holiday to celebrate love in all forms but most typically the romantic love between two people. However, behind every social media post of roses, chocolates, and candles with “#couplegoals” in the caption, there is a real couple in a real relationship that encounter real challenges at times. Individuals are complex and pairing them together enhances this complexity. A satisfying relationship typically requires ongoing commitment, investment, and effort from each partner to maintain its longevity. In a word, relationships are work. But, for most individuals who desire an intimate relationship with another, the love and connection their union provides is worth the effort.