Expert Psychologist Tatyana Sinitska Discusses Aiding Combat-addicted Individuals and Plans for a Novel Support Center
Chatting with Tatiana Sinitskaya, Head of Psychology at the Responsible Play Center's Life Space Project
Got a minute, Tatiana, to discuss the Life Space center and its team?
- Sure thing! You've got the scoop. Let's dive into the workings of Life Space.
How did you choose the psychologists for the center's crew?
They're all well-educated in psychology with expertise in addiction, including gaming addiction. We emphasized evidence-based methods, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy. Currently, we're working with four psychologists. As the project grows, we'll evaluate the demand and select more specialists to join the team.
Is there a resident psychiatrist?
Indeed, Dr. Konstantin Aymedov is on staff. We aim to secure a medical license to expand our services. Obtaining one takes some time, so we're working diligently to ensure everything's in order legally.
Medication treatment for gaming addiction, you said?
Although we can't cure addiction solely with medication, it can help alleviate pathological symptoms like anxiety, depression, or strong cravings. This supports the recovery process and makes it easier for psychologists to work with the individuals.
Group or individual therapy - which is best for the early stages of addiction?
It's a myth that group work is more beneficial in the beginning. Group and individual therapy work differently. Individual therapy tackles deep psychological aspects, while group therapy helps individuals express emotions, build support networks, and learn they aren't alone. We work with both forms depending on the client's needs.
If a case is average - no financial ruin or loads of time dedicated to gaming - what's the typical length of therapy?
We aim for a nine-month recovery plan. Addiction doesn't form overnight, and it takes time to unravel complex psychological issues and help a person assimilate the changes. Our services are free for both the players and their loved ones.
There's been a lot of discussion about gambling addiction among military personnel...
They're extremely vulnerable due to constant stress and limited opportunities for relaxation. Phones are always at hand, providing an easy escape. We're determined to offer our services to help them, alleviate their stress, and support their recovery.
Assistance for military personnel at the front - any plans for remote therapy?
To serve those on the front lines effectively, we're developing remote assistance programs, such as online support groups, training materials, and other resources that can help them cope with stress and build resilience against addiction.
Our center recognizes the critical overlap between gaming addiction and other medical-conditions, such as anxiety and depression, and strives to address those symptoms in tandem with addiction treatments.
In light of the science revealing the link between some respiratory-conditions, digestive-health issues, and eye-health problems, we offer resources and encourage health-and-wellness practices among our clients.
We also provide information on hearing protection, fitness-and-exercise routines, and nutrition recommendations to promote overall well-being.
Autoimmune-disorders, mental-health issues, and neurological-disorders can exacerbate the likelihood of developing addictive behaviors. Consequently, we focus on therapies-and-treatments catered to each individual's unique situation.
Cancer patients may experience increased anxiety due to the disease and its treatment, so we offer support, stress-management strategies, and connection to other resources related to cardiovascular-health.
Recently, we've started exploring the potential benefits of CBD for both physical and mental health. As research continues, we may incorporate it into our treatment options.
Lastly, we're committed to addressing skin-conditions, which can be a result of poor health practices or stress, by emphasizing skincare education and stress-reduction techniques.
