PVD Psychological Associates

  Elizabeth Kirkpatrick, LICSW I am a licensed independent clinical social worker in Rhode Island and Massachusetts, and offer online therapy to individuals residing in both of these states, in addition to my in-person practice in Rhode Island. I specialize in working with survivors of trauma and domestic violence, as well as those coping with loss. I also particularly enjoy working with those struggling with anxiety, depression, stress management, and a variety of challenges in relationships. I have obtained advanced training in several evidence-based treatments for trauma, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Sensorimotor Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), and mindfulness based approaches. I also incorporate elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Narrative therapies into my work as indicated. I take a holistic approach to working with clients, helping individuals improve their mind-body connection and resolve emotional difficult...

  We now treat compulsive screen use using behavioral addiction models, not just time limits. That means we explore triggers, cravings, emotional payoffs, and withdrawal symptoms. It’s the same approach we use with food addiction, compulsive shopping, or gambling. Because the neurological patterns are nearly identical. We teach regulation and help rebuild emotional awareness. And we create systems to help people reconnect with what really matters. What You Can Do... Whether you’re a parent, teacher, spouse, or individual trying to regain control, here’s what we recommend: Audit your use: Keep a log of when and why you reach for a screen. Replace before you restrict: Add offline joy before removing online distraction. Create device-free zones: Start with meals, bedrooms, and car rides. Model what you want to see: Your behavior speaks louder than any rule. Talk about it: Normalize the conversation around screen use and mental health. If a child or adult is showing signs of distress, ...

  Social Anxiety Disorder can be debilitating and isolating because individuals struggling with it experience intense fear that others are observing and judging them and consequently, end up avoiding social interactions. The nature of the anxiety may involve fears of public speaking, dating, or attending class or work and lead to individuals completely avoiding the situation(s) because they worry that others will notice their anxiety, negatively perceive them, and/or reject them. CBT for Social Anxiety focuses on helping individuals understand the interaction between their fears and behaviors that perpetuate the anxiety and then working together to establish new ways of interacting with others to challenge their beliefs. The therapists at PVD Psychological Associates specialize in working with individuals with anxiety and implement research-supported, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for specific anxiety disorders they may be struggling with. We see children, adolescents, colleg...

  Continuing on the subject on screen time How Many Hours Is Too Many? The most common question we hear is, “How many hours is too many?” Honestly, it depends. A child could spend an hour watching an educational video and walk away better for it. An adult could spend 15 minutes doomscrolling and feel worse about their life. So, the better question is: “How do you feel after you use your screen?” “Are you using it intentionally—or reflexively?” “What’s getting pushed aside while you’re online?” That’s where the conversation shifts from time management to mental health . https://pvdpsych.com/screen-addiction/

  Some great long weekend reading! Discover the Healing Power of Journaling 🖋 an insightful article, with our founder, Dr. Nicole Issa , PsyD as clinical reviewer. Journaling isn’t just putting pen to paper—it’s a powerful, accessible tool that supports mental health by helping manage anxiety, depression, grief, and more. Guided by expert-reviewed strategies, it encourages emotional release, deep self-awareness, and inner clarity. Read it here: app.projecthealthyminds.com Here’s how you can start, no experience required: Set aside a moment each day: Even 5 minutes can make a difference. Choose your format: Whether handwritten or digital, use what feels right. Try simple prompts: “What’s one small win today?” or “How am I feeling right now?” Be kind with yourself: This is your private space...there’s no need for perfection. Remember, journaling isn’t only about solving problems, it’s about being present with your thoughts and emotions, and giving yourself the gift of self‑connectio...

  We’ve heard the warnings about screen time for years: “limit it”, “monitor it”, “put your phone down”. But the real problem in 2025 isn’t how much time we spend in front of screens; it’s more about how we’re using them and how we’re being used by them. Let’s be clear, this isn’t just about kids zoning out on tablets or teens being hooked on TikTok, adults are in this too. What we’re facing now isn’t just distraction, it’s addiction and behavioral addiction that mimics what we see with gambling or compulsive eating. The brain doesn’t differentiate between social media and gambling for example, it cares about the reward it gets from using it. What Is Screen Addiction? Screen addiction is compulsive, especially with repetitive screen use that interferes with daily life. It’s as easy as “just one more episode,” and four hours disappear. You check your phone for one email, and suddenly you’re deep into a Facebook rabbit hole instead. For kids it’s even more addictive, just sitting dow...