As an American psychologist and certified hypnotherapist, I advocate the use of clinical hypnosis for smoking cessation, one of the least expensive and most effective approaches to becoming smoke-free. Since the American Medical Association approved its use, in the 1950's, hundreds of thousands of people have found hypnosis to be an effective way to stop smoking, lose weight, and otherwise improve their lives.

People have long seemed to attempt new ways to explore and heighten their healthy sexual pleasures with their love partner. Generally, these natural curiosities had been limited to playful experimentation like varied positions, Tantric Sex (sexual yoga), and stimulating talk. Others have included increasingly risky sexual behaviors, such as unprotected sex with multiple partners, marital affairs, auto asphyxiation and illicit drug use.

Many suggest that "luck is something you do." Nonetheless, I often relate to my patients that what we focus upon tends to become our reality, because we will likely do things and allow things to occur (both consciously and unconsciously) consistent with that structured focus, in order to manifest our desires. Recent best-selling books, like Dr. Wayne Dyer's "The Power of Intention" and Rhonda Byrne's "The Secret," eloquently reaffirm this inspirational messages of success.

The negative impact of abuse, which originates with the addict, slowly permeates into his or her family and ultimately throughout the community. Efforts to educate our communities, regarding these consequences, are critical in initiating positive change.

Before one can understand any behavior, including addictive behavior, it is imperative to understand that feelings truly dictate our actions.

Psychologists are healthcare professionals who rely upon scientific method to understand human behavior. Within a clinical setting, psychologists apply their expertise in a balanced manner, between a directive style and the recognition of the importance of allowing themselves to be more of a facilitator to help their clients help themselves. For most people, this approach allows for accurate assessment of presenting concerns and facilitation of personal growth.

Since 1997, Herbert Benson, of the Harvard Medical School, has reaffirmed that "Sixty to ninety percent of [doctor-patient] visits are prompted by conditions related to stress." Especially in today's world, stress management is truly vital to emotional, relational, and overall physical health. As a psychologist, I understand that most tend to consider meditative exercises as too difficult to learn; and too time consuming to practice.