(PR NewsChannel) / September 10, 2012 / NEW YORK
"Secrets Unraveled" discusses a breakthrough technique that allows patients to overcome this psychiatric illness.
In the newly released book, “Secrets Unraveled: Overcoming Munchausen Syndrome” (ISBN 1468094807), one woman’s journey into and out of a debilitating and mysterious psychiatric illness is documented, and one of the first successful therapeutic treatments is portrayed.
Munchausen syndrome, or factitious disorder, is a rare and intriguing psychiatric illness, often caused by child abuse and neglect. Those affected by this disorder secretly and repeatedly create or fake illnesses. The exaggerated symptoms are seen as a means to gain attention by assuming the “sick” role.
“Secrets Unraveled: Overcoming Munchausen Syndrome” brings to life Andrea Avigal’s disturbing condition and the unconventional, powerful psychotherapy relationship that pulled her from its grip. This bold, brave book describes the horrifying childhood abuse that led Avigal to succumb to this psychiatric illness, and documents how Dr. Thomas Hall’s constant presence and compassion combined with Avigal’s determination and courage enabled her to gain trust in him, reveal her secret and give up her life-threatening compulsion.
Childhood abuse often leaves adults with deep emotional scars. Avigal’s abuse was so severe, particularly the sexual assaults that she felt unlovable, unnoticed and alone. The attention she received from medical staff fulfilled her bottomless need to be cared for and noticed. The combination of the strong connection with Hall and writing their book together allowed Avigal to work through the endless shame from her abusive childhood and let go of her secret psychiatric illness.
Largely unknown and rarely discussed, Munchausen syndrome represents an enormous drain on the healthcare system. People with this disorder carefully pre-meditate and calculate ways of initiating countless unnecessary emergency room visits, hospitalizations, procedures and surgeries, bouncing from doctor to doctor. Since these patients do not typically seek psychological help themselves, public awareness and professional education are crucial to this psychiatric illness.
To date, there’s been virtually no media coverage of this social problem and psychiatric illness, and little documented successful treatment. Hall fills this void, taking a unique approach to writing “Secrets Unraveled” as a therapist by co-authoring it, in alternating sections, with his former patient, Avigal.
Psychiatrist, leading researcher and the author of “Playing Sick? Untangling the Web of Munchausen Syndrome, Munchausen by Proxy, Malingering, and Factitious Disorder,” Dr. Marc D. Feldman, explains how this landmark book would be of interest to not only Munchausen patients and their caregivers, but also those interested in psychology, mental health treatment, and medical mysteries.
“This is the first book that firmly counters the therapeutic nihilism surrounding the condition, offering hope to patients and families that recovery is achievable,” said Feldman. “The unique presentation of dual voices–the patient’s and the therapist’s–allows profound insights into the challenging psychodynamics of Munchausen syndrome and the effort required for resolution. I heartily recommend ‘Secrets Unraveled’ to all interested readers.”
Visit Dr. Marc D. Feldman’s website: http://munchausen.com.
Dr. Hall and Ms. Avigal will be appearing at The Book House at Stuyvesant Plaza in Albany, NY to discuss their groundbreaking book on Thursday, October 18, 2012 at 7 p.m. For information on their appearance, Munchausen syndrome or to purchase “Secrets Unraveled: Overcoming Munchausen Syndrome” please visit http://secretsunraveled.com.
About the Authors: Dr. Thomas G. Hall received his undergraduate degree in English from Tufts University and doctorate in clinical psychology from Fordham University. Hall has been practicing as a licensed psychologist since 1993 and in full-time practice since 1999. Ms. Avigal is in full recovery. She returned to school and will be graduating with her MSW in 2012.
MEDIA CONTACT
Dr. Thomas Hall
Email: secretsunraveled@gmail.com
Phone: (845) 797-0641
Website: http://secretsunraveled.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Secrets-Unraveled/336588729740470
Address: PO Box 461 High Falls, NY 12440
SOURCE: Dr. Thomas G. Hall
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