What Are Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)?

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

I (Dr. D’Arienzo) was recently involved as a defense expert (Forensic Psychologist) in a U.S. Military case regarding mitigation for a court-martial sentencing hearing. I assisted the defense by testifying about how the accussed had been impacted by a series of ACEs that created a chronic stress condition which impacted his decision making as a young adult. At the same time, I also explored how some of these experiences, with the right future environment, also led to resilient character traits that improved his rehabilitative potential. Generally, we know from the literature that having four or more ACEs is associated with deleterious mental and physical problems, criminalistic behaviors, as well as a shortend lifespan; while at the same time, for some people, these experiences lead to a toughing that is not always negative. The most commonnly researched Adverse Childhood Experiences are:

Infidelity and Online Couples Therapy Program

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

Okay, guys, he are real signs and examples that someone has been cheating straight from the psychologist’s couch. These examples have been altered slightly to protect those who exercised these behaviors, and know that I’ve (Dr. Justin D’Arienzo) heard all these examples many times from multiple patients. There are definite patterns of behavior related to infidelity that humans typically exercise.

Forensic Psychology and Legal Services, Jacksonville, Florida

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

Alcohol-induced blackouts are a common occurrence in the criminal justice system. The inability of a defendant to remember their actions while under the influence of alcohol poses a problem for the court.

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

The Eye of the Storm January 26, 2022 A few weeks ago, I was in the kitchen and my daughter Julia – who is in the eleventh grade – entered and she was on the verge of tears. She said “Dad, I’m so overwhelmed about exams. I have so much to study and I think […]

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

Overcoming Traumatic Memories January 12, 2021 Trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) have received increasing attention in recent years. Trauma occurs when one is exposed to a distressing event. Individuals who have experienced a traumatic event can often have troubling and distressing symptoms – resulting in the diagnosis of PTSD. These symptoms can include […]

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

2021 has been a very difficult year for everyone. A lot of you have lost family or friends to COVID-19, political division, divorce or other accidents, tragedies & health related concerns. There’s been a lot of loss this year & your life has changed because of it. Your view on the holiday season might’ve changed too. I want you to know, you are not alone in your struggles & you will get through the holidays – even if that means leaving your old rituals behind to create new ones.

infidelity help couples counseling affair PTSD

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

There is no greater sense of betrayal than being the victim of infidelity. Discovering an affair calls into question every assumption about your partner, yourself, your relationship and your life. Sexual jealousy – both perceived infidelity & actual infidelity – is a driver of intimate partner violence for both men and women. Men & women kill each other, the other’s lover and themselves over infidelity. That is how serious the impact is.

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

How to Overcome Panic Attacks October 6, 2021 People with Panic Disorder often present to the emergency room with chest pain or difficulty breathing and a genuine fear of dying from a heart attack. Some of us are genetically prone to panic attacks if we have a family history of anxiety, a lifestyle full of […]

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

Over the past year, I have been writing a book about the science of making relationships work. My working title is How Not to Fuck Up Your Life. The Art and Science of Finding the Right Partner —and Being the Right Partner — to Create a Lasting, Happy Relationship. Learn more about the important value factors here.

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

Dr. D’Arienzo (transcription): So, who am I? Really? Well, the best way to explain who I am, imagine if Gordon Ramsay and Dr. Phil had a baby, I would be their baby child. It would be me, Dr. D’Arienzo.

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