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D'Arienzo Psychology Blog

Millions of People Fear Sharks, But Here’s Why They Shouldn’t

Posted by: jackie

A-Z Animals Encyclopedia recently featured Dr. Justin D’Arienzo’s expertise on galeophobia (shark phobia), highlighting his unique perspective as both a clinical psychologist and experienced diver with over 1,000 ocean dives. The article explores his research showing that women and teenagers are particularly susceptible to shark fears, which typically develop through media exposure rather than actual […]

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Tragedy in Wisconsin sparks conversation about school safety

Posted by: jackie

Dr. Justin D’Arienzo, a Jacksonville-based psychologist who works closely with children in school systems, shed light on the concerning normalization of these events. “Oh, it’s another school shooting. This is terrible, right?” Dr. D’Arienzo said, reflecting on society’s muted reaction to such tragedies. “We’re still not getting the message about seeing something, saying something.” Dr. […]

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Florida legislators look to tackle state’s mental health crisis by expanding the role of psychologists

Posted by: jackie

Florida has been declared a health professional shortage area. Dr. Justin D’Arienzo, a Jacksonville psychologist, recently discussed his advocacy for a bill that would allow psychologists with additional training to prescribe medications.  

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Florida sports betting is expected to be big business again as the NFL season begins.

Posted by: jackie

With online sports betting booming in Florida, clinical psychologist Dr. Justin D’Arienzo warns against the lure of gambling. “I tell people…stay away. Don’t even start,” he says, pointing to the pervasive celebrity endorsements and ease of access. D’Arienzo cautions that, despite its legality, sports betting is likely to lead to addiction issues that society will […]

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Many people are feeling fatigued after back-to-back hurricanes. A local psychologist explains the reason behind it

Posted by: jackie

Following recent storms, many Floridians are experiencing “disaster fatigue,” as repeated extreme weather takes a toll on mental health. Dr. Justin D’Arienzo, a clinical psychologist, explains that ongoing storm threats can mimic PTSD symptoms: “We do have something called disaster fatigue when there have been repeated events,” he says. People may become hyper-vigilant, “obsessing about […]

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Sentencing for teen who stabbed 3 people outside Ponte Vedra Beach restaurant pushed back for CTE testing

Posted by: jackie

Sentencing for Spencer Pearson, who pleaded guilty to aggravated battery and attempted murder in a violent stabbing outside a Ponte Vedra Beach restaurant, has been delayed as his attorneys seek testing for chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), which they argue may have impacted his behavior. CTE, a condition linked to repeated head injuries, can lead to […]

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Dr. D’Arienzo: Parents Must Step In to Prevent School Threats

Posted by: jackie

Dr. Justin D’Arienzo emphasizes that preventing school threats begins at home, urging parents to “get involved” by monitoring their children’s social media and discussing the serious consequences of making threats. He warns, “if they make false allegations… you will be arrested, even if you’re a minor.” D’Arienzo also stresses that kids often act impulsively without […]

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Investigating the “Sour Candy” TikTok Trend for Anxiety Relief

Posted by: jackie

Action News Jax examines a TikTok trend suggesting that sour candy can alleviate anxiety and panic attacks. Certified Psychologist Dr. Justin D’Arienzo explains that the sourness acts as a distraction and releases dopamine, similar to spicy foods. Anxiety disorders affect 19.1% of U.S. adults, according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America. While sour […]

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Private jets, gambling, and a Trevor Lawrence jersey

Posted by: jackie

Doctor Justin D’Arienzo is a clinical and forensic psychologist. While he hasn’t treated Amit Patel, he said the stealing from the Jaguars detailed in court documents points to a wide range of psychological behavior. “On the far end, you have somebody that is facing some financial stressor, or they’re in some jam, and then they […]

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Trust, Money, and Drugs: Unveiling Grooming Tactics in Bank Embezzlement

Posted by: jackie

Trust, money and drugs: Accusations against bank embezzler illustrates textbook examples of classic signs of grooming, like gaining a potential victim’s trust and giving them money, gifts, alcohol and drugs. Local Forensic Psychologist, Dr. Amy Hartley, shares her insights.

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