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                     Stephen H. Hill, Ph.D., PLLC, Licensed Psychologist


                                           Where every problem receives extraordinary attention.


Photo
Introduction

     I'm glad you are considering me for counseling, testing or consulting services.  This website should answer many of your questions about my background, professional specialties, insurance billing, and what to expect from counseling.  The extensive Mental Health Links below serve as your personal guide the best mental health information available on the internet.  Self-tests are available for ADHD, Depression, Anxiety and Bipolar.  In this difficult economy, I've also added a section on how to make counseling & healthcare more affordable (including with an out-of-network provider). 

What to Expect from Counseling

     As a Licensed Psychologist I help adults, children, families and couples have fewer conflicts in their relationships, improve their communication with love and respect, and eliminate their unnecessary anxiety, stress and depression.  I also accurately diagnose and treat ADHD, teach effective parenting, and guide children and adults through the difficult process of divorce recovery.  For 12 years my goal has been for all my clients to feel fully healthy, and truly enjoy life again.

     In both counseling and longer-term therapy, I pride myself on tailoring your experience to fit you individually.  I always encourage you to set your own pace and to feel fully supported, while being challenged to grow from the right amount of objective feedback.  Professionally, I maintain my expertise through continual training, so you can take advantage of the most recent information and research available.  Finally, you should know that I keep my caseload small, so I can give extra attention to everyone I see.
      Counseling is not like a medical doctor visit.  Instead, it calls for an active effort on your part.  In order for the counseling to be most successful, you will have to work on things we talk about both at our visits and at home.  Finally, you will maximize your experience by telling me periodically what portions of the counseling you find most helpful.

     Counseling has been shown to have great benefits.  You will often have better relationships, find solutions to specific problems, and significantly reduce feelings of distress.

     I earned my Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, whose program receives national recognition.  Professionally, I have served both on the Board and the Continuing Education Committee of the Idaho Psychological Association, where I continue as an active member.  I am fully bilingual in Spanish, and so am happy to offer all my services in English or Spanish.  At conferences, I have presented regionally and nationally, and I enjoy presenting to local groups, churches and professional staff.     Complete Academic Biography


Radio Interviews & Humor

KBSU: An Idaho Perspective    Listen Icon

KBSU logo  Dr. Hill comments that the popular press has recently sensationalized the risks of ADHD medications.   He reviews
  the actual findings of the February 2006 FDA Report on ADHD medication safety, and puts the findings into a more
  objective perspective. As always, Dr. Hill encourages the public to consult with a trusted physician (not the press
  or internet) before starting or ending any medical treatment.



KBOI logo          KBOI Radio Series: A Closer Look for the Family
 
 

       
Listen Icon   Effective Parenting
       
Listen Icon   Preventing Toxic Worry and Anxiety
       
Listen Icon   Recognizing Serious Marital Problems
        Listen Icon   Using Preventive Counseling to Avoid a Personal or Family Crisis
        Listen Icon   ADHD: What is it?  How to Manage it Successfully


This Month's Comic Relief     
        * New*             Listen Icon
If you find most facebook status updates and twitter mind-numbing, or don't even know what twitter is, satirist Brian Unger's piece should bring a smile
to your day.   He also takes on texting while driving, online "friends," and the odd stalking GPS feature available (with permission) through cell phone apps.


Radio Interviews
What to Expect
Professional Specialties
Insurance & Fees
Directions
Contact Me
 Free Presentations Info. Before Starting Depression & Anxiety
Multiple Topics
Bipolar Info.
ADHD Info.


logo
Independent Providers of
Counseling, Psychological &
Organizational Services

  Stephen H. Hill, Ph.D., PLLC 
Licensed Psychologist
 
   (208) 385-0888

  Where every problem receives extraordinary attention.

1517 W. Jefferson Street    Boise, ID  83702

                                                                                                                                                                                    Last updated 6/23/09
 
                                                 

   Professional Specialties

· Stop Marital Arguments and Improve Communication

· Eliminate Unnecessary Depression & Anxiety

· Reduce Family / Stepfamily Conflict

· Life Coaching to Improve your Career or Relationships

·   Learn Effective Parenting

· Accurate Diagnosis & Treatment of Child and Adult ADHD

· Recover from Divorce & Relationship Loss

·  De-Stress Life Permanently for Yourself & Your Family 

· Be Single and Happy

· Learn Respectful Assertiveness

· GLBT Issues

· Treat Anxiety with Relaxation Training, Muscle Relaxation & Meditation

· Women’s & Men's Issues: Trauma, Career Change & Mid-Life Crises

· Multicultural Counseling (Latino, African-American, East Indian, Asian)

·  Unbiased Exploration of Spiritual Growth & Religious Questions

· All services available en Español 


        **  Evening Appointments Available  **



Free Programs and Presentations
    (Call 385-0888 for Reservations)

 
Everyone talks about 'Bipolar.'  What do they mean?
  
Monday, October 19th    7:00pm

Recovering from Divorce, Adjusting to Separation
  
Monday, February 8th,  2010   7:00pm

Other Programs Available from Dr. Hill by Request              Other Spring Discovery Classes & Groups by my colleagues



logo
Independent Providers of
Counseling, Psychological &
Organizational Services

  Stephen H. Hill, Ph.D., PLLC 
Licensed Psychologist
 
   (208) 385-0888

  Where every problem receives extraordinary attention.

1517 W. Jefferson Street    Boise, ID  83702

Insurance and Fees

    Included in my services to you, I complete all insurance paperwork on your behalf.  I am an in-network provider for several Idaho insurance policies, and will be able to collect only the copay once we confirm that you have met your deductible and pre-authorized visits if required.  To find out if I am in-network for your policy, please speak with myself or our receptionist.

    For out-of-network or out-of-state insurance, the fees below are paid in full at the time of our meeting.  In these cases, I will still work with you to ensure that you receive the maximum insurance benefit to which you are entitled, paid directly from your insurance carrier to you.  Credit and debit card payments are accepted in addition to cash and checks (up to $150).  Please speak with me personally if alternative financial arrangements would allow you to seek services with me.  Because I am committed to you at the appointed time, I require 24 hours notice for cancellations.

$125 per 50 minute session
$140 for the Initial Diagnostic Consultation
$579 for complete Brown Scales ADHD testing, incl. 3 page final report
         (payment by cash, credit or debit only for this service)

TIP: When you call your insurance company, it's a good idea to ask at least these four questions:
1)  Do you need to preauthorize visits with me before coming?  Who do you call to do this?
2)  Is there a deductible to meet before benefits begin, and if so, how much of the deductible is met so far?
3)  Is the coverage different if I am an out-of-network provider for your plan?
4)  Is there a maximum number of visits allowed per year, or before the provider must submit reauthorization
      paperwork?  (And please let me know if you have already used some of your visits with another provider).

Economic Considerations When Choosing an In-Network vs. Out-Of-Network Provider         * New*

      With the huge number of health plans out there, few psychologists and counselors decide to sign up "in-network" for every product available nationwide.  I personally have signed up for some plans and not others-- just like my own physician's office.  So, when families call me based on my expertise areas or because they've received a trusted referral to me, they often have additional questions if they find out I am out-of-network for their plan.  Many potential clients are confused (or sometimes directly misinformed by their insurance company!) about what it would mean financially to seek services from an out-of-network provider or to use their traditional insurance vs. their EAP (Employee Assistance Program).  Ultimately, I always want what's best for the family or individual-- including financially.  These potential clients often consult with me to better understand their insurance options and to confirm my network status for their plan.  Additionally, many want some advice about what factors to consider before deciding whether to meet with me (who seems like an especially good fit or to whom they were actually referred) vs. looking for an unknown, in-network provider that might save them some dollars in the short term.  To guide them in this decision, I often outline three issues to consider.

     First, many clients are confused, or are even actively misled by the insurance company, to think that if they choose a provider out-of-network there will not be any insurance benefit.  Typically, this simply isn't true.  Although a few plans truly do not cover out-of network services at all, most provide a decent benefit but with different rules applying.  For example, in researching a  number of local employers who have Blue Cross of Idaho "PPO" plans, I found that roughly 80% still provided an out-of-network benefit for mental health services.  The difference with seeing an out-of-network provider on these plans might be in having to meet a deductible before benefits begin, or in reimbursing 50% of costs out-of-network rather than 70% in-network.  Finally, you should know that under Idaho law all plans are required to apply out-of-network services towards the deductible if that service is a covered benefit at all.  As always, call your insurance plan directly to check on these finer details.

     Second, except for prescriptions and family doctor visits, most insurance plans require that a deductible be met before any benefits begin, regardless of the provider's network status.  Thus, during the time the deductible is being met, clients often have the freedom to choose any provider they wish at no additional cost.  Some clients with higher-deductible plans even realize that it will never make any difference whether they seek services in-network or out-of-network, because realistically their counseling needs would be met before the deductible is reached and insurance payments began.  Then if future medical needs arise, they would have made significant progress towards this deductible.  Alternatively, once a deductible is met and an actual insurance benefit would begin, the client can always choose to transfer counseling at this point-- but in the meantime he or she enjoyed the freedom of working with their first-choice therapist at no additional cost, gaining valuable tools and ideas that can continue to be expanded with a new therapist.

     Third, while most of us love living in a smaller community like the Treasure Valley, realistically this always limits the number of specialists for any given problem-- whether medical or psychological.  Be sure to ask the providers you're interviewing whether they have any special training and supervised experience in the areas they claim expertise.  Some may claim to practice in areas in which they really haven't had any special background, like family or couples therapy.  While interviewing potential therapists, some clients come to realize they actually have more than one specialty they are seeking, like wanting expertise in ADHD or divorce issues, but also needing a skilled family or couples therapist.  Others seek an area of expertise like bipolar depression or severe anxiety, but also think a male therapist specifically would have a better chance getting through to their child.  In these instances, the question may arise whether any provider with the correct expertise areas will happen to be in-network for their insurance.  If not, the caller faces a difficult decision.  Should he or she stick to someone in-network or within the EAP benefit who's cheaper, even if the provider doesn't have the particular skills or knowledge base they are looking for?  I certainly have seen some cases where this "hope for the best" approach worked out OK.  I've also met with many adults, children or families after lengthy previous therapy either failed to be helpful, or even backfired and made things worse.  In the meantime, the client was still making a significant investment of their money, time and emotional energy, but without getting a good benefit back from this investment.  For some, as the weeks and months rolled by, new consequences of not receiving the right help quickly enough often mounted up, including failing grades, damaged relationships, worsening symptoms-- or in the worst cases something like a related job loss or divorce.  In short, as with any medical care, seeing the right specialist, and doing so in a preventive, timely way may be more costly up-front, but save you money in the long term-- precisely because the treatment received was more targeted, effective and efficient, including financially.

Using Health Savings Accounts (HSA) to Control Healthcare Costs         * New*

A Health Savings Account (HSA) can make psychological and medical services much more affordable.  An HSA is an account that you can put pre-tax money into for future medical expenses, including counseling and psychological services.  Banks, credit unions, insurance companies and other financial institutions are permitted to create a HSA for you.  HSAs must be combined with a qualifying high-deductible health plan (at least $1,100 individual or $2,200 family deductible).  This type of coverage usually results in lower insurance premiums.  In turn, these savings on premiums can be used to fund the HSA if you like, providing significant cash that can be used towards the deductible or other healthcare costs.  Any company that sells health insurance may offer qualifying high-deductible plans-- call them directly for details.

HSAs have numerous benefits:
More info. about HSAs can be obtained here from the U.S. Treasury Dept.  Especially check out the "HSA Basics" Brochure and FAQ, or if you want much more detail, see the "All About HSAs" slideshow.

Radio Interviews
What to Expect
Professional Specialties
Insurance & Fees
Directions
Contact Me
 Free Presentations
Info. Before Starting Depression & Anxiety
Multiple Topics
Bipolar Info.
ADHD Info.


logo
Independent Providers of
Counseling, Psychological &
Organizational Services

  Stephen H. Hill, Ph.D., PLLC 
Licensed Psychologist
 
   (208) 385-0888

  Where every problem receives extraordinary attention.

1517 W. Jefferson Street    Boise, ID  83702


Mental Health Links

    Helpful Articles before Starting Counseling, Consultation or Testing

Understanding Your Insurance
Answers to frequently asked questions explains how different policy types, copays and deductibles impact the overall and up-front fees you will owe your medical provider or therapist. After reading this article, you may want to talk to your employer or human resources department about what medical and mental health benefits you would appreciate having next year.  Large deductibles, or having mental health coverage subcontracted can result in higher costs and reduced selection in finding a high-quality provider.

Making a Financial Decision about Counseling or Testing
Even with good insurance coverage or short-term counseling needs, the service is still an investment of your time and money.  This article discusses making a financial decision of when and whether to begin therapy, considering the alternative costs non-treatment may have on your emotional health, your family and your work performance.  Just as with physical health, delaying treatment may result in needing more complex, lengthier services later on, whereas early intervention (prevention) may meet your needs quickly and efficiently.

How to Interview and Choose a Mental Health Professional
A well-written article on how to interview and select a provider who's a good match personally and professionally.  Lists good questions to ask your potential therapist or consultant before setting a first appointment.

Understand the Differences Between a Psychologist and a Psychiatrist
Reviews what services each type of professional provides, and what education is completed for their degree and license.

Radio Interviews What to Expect
Professional Specialties
Insurance & Fees
Directions
Contact Me
 Presentations Available Choosing a Professional
Depression & Anxiety
Multiple Topics
Bipolar Info.
ADHD Info.


logo
Independent Providers of
Counseling, Psychological &
Organizational Services

  Stephen H. Hill, Ph.D., PLLC 
Licensed Psychologist
 
   (208) 385-0888

  Where every problem receives extraordinary attention.

1517 W. Jefferson Street    Boise, ID  83702

                                           

   ADHD Websites (Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder)

NPR Archives: Dealing with ADHD as an Adult Listen Icon
A wonderful introduction to Adult ADHD, with top national researchers Edward Hallowell, MD and Patricia Quinn, MD answering questions from listeners.  An interview with author Robert Jergen and several questions also cover ADHD in childhood.

National Resource Center on ADHD (sponsored by CHADD)
Extremely helpful articles on coping strategies for time management, parenting an ADHD child/teen, relationship and social skills, money management, and ADHD in the workplace.  Don't miss the "Living with ADHD" section.

The Hallowell Center
The resources section offers 15 articles by Dr. Edward Hallowell, author of Driven to Distraction and Delivered from Distraction.  In the upper left corner you can subscribe to his email newsletter.

National Center for Gender Issues and ADHD: Recommended Books and Multimedia Library
This site's public resources section reviews three excellent books on girls and women with ADHD. In general, the site educates adults, parents and teachers about how ADHD can manifest differently in girls and women.  Multimedia presentations (or transcripts) include Making the Grade, How to Help Your Child, and ADD in the School: How to Stay in the Loop.

ADHD Info.com
Separate sections summarize information for understanding ADHD, what responsible treatment includes, and what info. on ADHD is myth vs. fact.  Information is also broken down by category: for parents and caregivers, for school personnel, and for healthcare providers.  The healthcare provider's section gives
references for ADHD scientific studies and professional journal articles.  As available, the references give a link to read the original articles online.

CHADD: Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD)
Brief general ADHD information, plus info. on public policy, recent legislation, and educational rights.

Schwab Learning: ADHD and LD Basics
Current articles on ADHD review the special risks and vulnerabilities for adolescents with ADHD, including academic or vocational failure, alcohol and drug abuse, risky sexual behavior, and dangerous driving.

Adult ADD Info
Hosted by psychiatrists Marc Schwartz, MD and Nicholas Schwartz, MD, this website lists symptoms to recognize ADHD in adulthodd, reviews the (very limited) helpfulness of expensive brain imaging for diagnosis, and describes how google can be used to send helpful reminders to your email or cell phone.

This site includes a good Adult ADHD Self-Test, though if you have concerns you really should pursue a thorough, professional diagnosis by a provider specializing in ADHD.  In my professional experience ADHD is one of the most difficult diagnoses to make accurately, and relatively few mental health professionals have genuine expertise or training in ADHD diagnosis and treatment.  Whereas many forms of depression and anxiety can be relatively straight-forward to assess, ADHD frequently goes undiagnosed or misdiagnosed as another condition, as ADHD symptoms often overlap or mimic other concerns.  One large national study found that only half of those who genuinely had ADHD were currently treated, since the diagnosis frequently goes unrecognized by both the individual and the family physician.  You can take the results of any self-tests you've done to this appointment.

Adult ADHD
Other sites have more detailed information for most topics, but it does host a few management tips for home, work and relationships.  Please note that this website is now sponsored by Eli Lilly, maker of the ADHD medication Strattera.  It includes a second, more brief Adult ADHD Self-Test.

ADDitude Magazine
A large, comprehensive website including resources for adults, parents of ADHD children, college students and more.  Resources include a complete back-to-school guide, a review of medical and behavioral treatment options, how to work with schools, a college survival guide, and bulletin board forums on improving organization, career management, parenting, recognizing ADHD, and how to get an accurate diagnosis.

Amen Clinics          * New*
This site hosts a second online Adult ADHD Self-Test, but please read the paragraph immediately above.  Dr. Amen has archived SPECT images comparing normal brain images to both treated and untreated ADHD.  Results are amazing, and Dr. Amen theorizes that up to 7 different subtypes of ADHD may exist, though similar behavioral and medical interventions are appropriate for multiple subtypes.  For the curious, the process and science of SPECT imagery is also described.  ADHD is fortunately one of the most heavily researched areas in mental health.

ADDvance: A Resource for Women and Girls with ADHD
Closely related to the National Center for Gender Issues and ADHD, this site offers a more extensive book library, plus resources of selected articles, online support groups, and a Parents' ADHD Self-Test for Girls and an ADHD Self-Test for Teenage Girls., but please read the indented paragraph above.

Also see Parent Resources for School Advocacy and Educational Rights

ADHD Book List (Compiled by myself and colleagues beginning in 2005)


Radio Interviews
What to Expect
Professional Specialties
Insurance & Fees
Directions
Contact Me
 Free Presentations
Info. Before Starting Depression & Anxiety
Multiple Topics
Bipolar Info.
ADHD Info.


logo
Independent Providers of
Counseling, Psychological &
Organizational Services

  Stephen H. Hill, Ph.D., PLLC 
Licensed Psychologist
 
   (208) 385-0888

  Where every problem receives extraordinary attention.

1517 W. Jefferson Street    Boise, ID  83702



    Depression & Anxiety Articles & Websites (also see Broad Psychological Sites below)

NPR Archives: Diagnosing and Treating Childhood Depression Listen Icon
Reviews some basic statistics on teenage depression, the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy, and how teenagers often prefer professional talk therapy over medication, so long as confidentiality is assured.

NPR Archives: Teens and Mental Illness  Listen Icon 
In the wake of recent media coverage, an interview with Dr. Leventhal offers a balanced review of the real benefits and risks of antidepressant medicines for children and adolescents. Compares the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy, antidepressant treatment and combined treatment.  Interviews a teenager and her mother about their personal experiences with the daughter's depression, including how they had to overcome the stigma of seeking responsible help.

NPR Archives: Worry and Anxiety: What's Healthy, What's Toxic?  Listen Icon
Worrying can be a healthy thing-- it can make you act with forethought, or keep you on your toes in a dangerous situation. But for some people, worrying becomes downright toxic-- to the point that it disrupts work, pleasure, and physical health. Drs. Hallowell and Dupont take an in-depth look at what makes us worry, and the best strategies for coping.  Briefly addresses taking anxiety medicine during pregnancy, genetic links, overprotective parenting, the role of faith or a personal life philosophy, and the effect of parents' excessive worry on children's adult lives.

NPR Archives: Why We Worry and How to Deal with It Listen Icon
Global warming, aging parents, terrorists, being too fat-- or too thin!  Many Americans are worrying more than they used to.  Dr. Hallowell differentiates between appropriate concern in response to real threats vs. excessive "toxic worry" that can take over your life unnecessarily.  Reviews genetic predisposition, the effect of social isolation, trauma, and how toxic worry can eventually destroy marriages, friendships, and parent-child relationships.  Coping strategies discussed include parents helping their children keep perspective from an early age, and the healthy use of exercise and humor.

NPR Archives: Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Listen Icon
Checking, double-checking and second-guessing are all within the realm of normal, everyday behavior. But when does this sort of behavior cross the line into obsession? Author and reporter Jeff Bell and guests talk about recognizing and treating of obsessive-compulsive disorder.

NPR Archives: Motherhood in the Age of Anxiety Listen Icon
Author and Newsweek correspondent Judith Warner addresses the "choking cocktail of guilt and anxiety and resentment and regret" that is poisoning motherhood for American women, and how to effectively reclaim the joys of being a parent.

NPR Archives: Suffering for Two: The Bind of Maternal Depression  Listen Icon
Discusses whether prospective mothers should continue or discontinue antidepressant medication during pregnancy and breast-feeding.

NPR Archives: Recognizing Post-Partum Depression  Listen Icon 
Several very short stories paint a picture of how to recognize post-partum depression, and some of the common emotional sources of depression during this time.

NPR Archives: Brooke Shields, on Birth and Post-Partum Depression  Listen Icon
An in-depth interview by Fresh Air's by Terry Gross covers the same topics as above, plus how the story changed after seeking appropriate psychological and medical treatment.

The Anxiety Community
Numerous articles on different forms of anxiety, and their medical and psychological treatments.  Includes an online community with chat room and bulletin boards.   A good quality Anxiety Self-Test is available, though you should meet with a professional to form any solid conclusions.  Note:  if you compare technical medication info., please remember that if your medication does not show a FDA "indication" for your specific form of anxiety, this may merely reflect a marketing decision by the drug manufacturer.  Ask your physician whether a given medication is a reasonable choice for your form of anxiety.

<>Birdsong Radio  Listen Icon
Take a moment to relax to the sounds of birdsong.  Let this play in the background of your home or office for a mental escape, a meditative exercise, or just a soothing background.

Depression Self-Test  Meeting with a professional can further explore any concerns, and determine the severity and precise type of  any depression.

Radio Interviews
What to Expect
Professional Specialties
Insurance & Fees
Directions
Contact Me
 Free Presentations
Info. Before Starting Depression & Anxiety
Multiple Topics
Bipolar Info.
ADHD Info.


logo
Independent Providers of
Counseling, Psychological &
Organizational Services

  Stephen H. Hill, Ph.D., PLLC 
Licensed Psychologist
 
   (208) 385-0888

  Where every problem receives extraordinary attention.

1517 W. Jefferson Street    Boise, ID  83702


    Broad Psychological Websites (covering multiple topics)

Mental Health Net
Describes the symptoms of common mental health diagnoses, then reviews treatments, research, national organizations and support groups, and online support.  To search the site, scroll down to the bottom of the page.

Psychology Info.com : Common diagnoses
Describes major mental health concerns organized clustered by global category (e.g. anxiety, depression).  Includes a review of causes, subtypes and discussion of medical and psychological treatments.

Web M.D.           * New*
With content written and reviewed by our local company Healthwise, this site offers numerous articles and resources on both physical and mental health.  The Drugs & Treatment tab takes you to an alphabetical list of medications, allowing you to see FDA indications and warnings.

The Ultimate Parenting Experiment: Siblings David & Golliath   Listen Icon       * New*
This American Life follows one mother as she desparately-- but successfully and creatively-- interrupts her daughters' constant sibling battles, along the way discovering surprising secret ingredients to parenting.

Medscape: Mental & Emotional Health Info.
Pamphlet-type information for all categories of major mental health concerns, written by the National Institutes of Mental Health and Carenotes.  Also sign up here to receive periodic newsletters with the newest news and research on select topics, like ADHD and Bipolar.  Requires a quick, free registration.

National Institutes of Mental Health (NIMH)  "For the Public"
Excellent reading, with more technical detail included.  Printable pamphlets available here for yourself, or to share with family, friends, coworkers or teachers.

NAMI Idaho
NAMI is a nationwide organization dedicated to support, education and advocacy on behalf of people with a mental illness and their families.  After creating a free online account, you can access numerous online discussion and support groups in a bulletin board format.  Post your comments or questions, or just read about others' experiences.

Schwab Learning: Parenting Strategies
Numerous articles explore such topics as how much to explain to younger children about a diagnosis, parent self-care survival tips, building bonds between siblings and with each parent, preventing risky teen behavior, helping your child find a passion in life, dealing with frustrating behavior, and talking with children about terrorism.

The Idaho Federation of Families
This organization works to educate policy makers, professional organizations, legislators, educators, and the public about the needs of children with emotional, behavioral, and mental disorders and their families.  Resources include parent support groups and education, and instructions on how to advocate for your child's needs at school and elsewhere.

Idaho Parents Unlimited
Federal funding provides an informative quarterly newsletter (with further resources and websites), fine arts opportunities for those with and without disabilities, and frequent presentations and workshops for parents, especially regarding educational rights.

Mental Health Interactive
Extensive archived question-and-answer site, with questions solicited from the public in an "Ask Libby" format.  Also lists national organizations and support groups.  Easy to read, though answers may be more simplified than elsewhere.

Preventing & Understanding Addiction        Watch Video:View Video         * New*
From the perspective of a child-- but one that hits home with adults also-- Dr. Robert Lefever's short cartoon film describes how addictions begin, how to recognize addictions in children and teens, and what parents can do to begin effectively preventing or addressing addictions in their their own family.

Therapy news : Updated weekly with the latest news relating to therapist and therapy.
Therapist > Articles > Therapy & Treatment News


   Bipolar Disorder  (formerly called Manic-Depression)

Frontline: The Medicated Child        Watch Video:View Video         * New*
Focusing primarily on medical treatment for childhood and adolescents with bipolar, this program also addresses ADHD, tics, and follows several families as they pursue accurate diagnosis and make difficult medication decisions.  Assesses the current state of knowledge for minors with serious mental  health issues vs. physical ailments like cancer.

Child and Adolescent Bipolar Foundation
Numerous family stories and articles, expert interviews, research abstracts and reprints.

Bipolar Disorders: Psych. Education.com
This very comprehensive site discusses recognizing Bipolar symptoms, maintaining hope, and uderstanding the role of genetics vs. blaming yourself for "low personal strength."  Articles explore the tricky business of telling whether symptoms truly represent Bipolar vs. ADHD, anxiety, thyroid problems, Borderline Personality, etc. (although more than one condition may be present).  A Bipolar Self-Test here and another Bipolar Self Test at Mental Health Net may help decide if evaluation by a professional-- or a second opinion-- is recommended.  However, as shown by a third, more complicated screen below, traditional self-tests and the official DSM list of Bipolar symptoms as reported by the client is likely just one piece of the puzzle in an accurate diagnosis.  Equally important as self-reported symptoms are the family history of mental conditions, family members' perception on symptoms, past reponse to medication, the age at the first depression, and long-term patterns in symptoms.  As this long list suggests, working with a provider specializing in Bipolar specifically can be critical to getting the right diagnosis and the right help in a timely way.  In one study, those with a Bipolar depression went undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for an average of 12 years.

Professionals already familiar with Bipolar may also find use for this much more complicated assessment tool.  On this final, rather complicated tool, non-professionals can still probably understand from the chart how their past response to antidepressant medications can offer insight about possible Bipolar aspects to their depression.  Please note that the 100 point scoring system per se has not yet been scientifically validated. 


Radio Interviews
What to Expect
Professional Specialties
Insurance & Fees
Directions
Contact Me
 Free Presentations
Info. Before Starting Depression & Anxiety
Multiple Topics
Bipolar Info.
ADHD Info.


logo
Independent Providers of
Counseling, Psychological &
Organizational Services

  Stephen H. Hill, Ph.D., PLLC 
Licensed Psychologist
 
   (208) 385-0888

  Where every problem receives extraordinary attention.

1517 W. Jefferson Street    Boise, ID  83702



Programs Available by Request

(The most popular recent programs appear in bold)

Individual Health, Development, and Life Skills
·  Take Charge of Your Calendar!  Take Back Your Life!
·  5 Ways to Make Every Day Happy
·  Reclaiming Your Life from Stress & Burnout

·  Recognizing Child and Adult ADHD
·  Contemporary Research Updates on ADHD
·  No More Holiday Madness: A Holiday Survival Guide
· 
Suicide Prevention & Intervention
·
  Assertiveness Training
· 
Coming Out to Friends and Family

Relationship Issues
·  Being Single in the New Millennium
·  Rekindle: Marital Enrichment Workshop
·  Couples in Trouble: Rethink, Restart

Parenting
·  Parenting Teens-- and Surviving!
·  A Crash Course in Effective Parenting
·  Single Again: A Divorce Survival Guide for Parents and Children
·  Stepfamily Parenting

Communication and Conflict Resolution
·  Restoring Healthy Communication in the Workplace
·  Effective Communication / Active Listening
· 
Conflict Resolution
·  Cross-Gender Communication


Therapies Frequently Used
                                   
Hobbies

Cognitive-Behavioral                                                  Soccer
Interpersonal                                                              Kayaking
Systems Therapies (for couples/families)                     Hiking & Orienteering
Gestalt                                                                       Flower and Vegetable Gardening
Humanistic                                                                 Writing Poetry in English and Spanish
Existential
Modified Rational-Emotive Therapy
                                                                   
Neo-analytic (as needed, e.g. Jung, Shapiro)
Behavioral
Multicultural Therapies  


Radio Interviews
What to Expect
Professional Specialties
Insurance & Fees
Directions
Contact Me
 Free Presentations
Info. Before Starting Depression & Anxiety
Multiple Topics
Bipolar Info.
ADHD Info.


logo
Independent Providers of
Counseling, Psychological &
Organizational Services

  Stephen H. Hill, Ph.D., PLLC 
Licensed Psychologist
 
   (208) 385-0888

  Where every problem receives extraordinary attention.

1517 W. Jefferson Street    Boise, ID  83702



Directions

Our offices are located in downtown Boise at 1517 W. Jefferson Street.  We are conveniently accessible from the Connector,
Americana or State Street.  Free street-side parking is easily available out front.  Our offices are inside the yellow two-story
Victorian house near the intersection of Jefferson and 16th Street.  Arrows on the map below indicate one-way streets.  If you
are unfamiliar with the area, or if your web browser cannot view the map below, please call our receptionist for directions or a copy
of this map at 385-0888.

Driving Map
        

                                                                                                                       


Radio Interviews
What to Expect
Professional Specialties
Insurance & Fees
Directions
Contact Me
 Free Presentations
Info. Before Starting Depression & Anxiety
Multiple Topics
Bipolar Info.
ADHD Info


Academic Resume'


EDUCATION

Ph.D.        Southern Illinois University at Carbondale                      Aug. 1999
                 Counseling Psychology (A.P.A. Full Accreditation)
                     Supervised experience included:

M.A.         Southern Illinois University at Carbondale                     May 1996
                 Counseling Psychology (A.P.A. Full Accreditation)

B.A.          Davidson College, N.C.                                               May 1994
                 Major: Psychology        Minor: International Studies with Spanish
                
Advanced study of Spanish history and poetry at the
                 University of Sevilla, Spain.  Fluent in Spanish.

 
 
HONORS

Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society, Southern Illinois University at Carbondale
Disney Award- Paid Attendance to National Conference on Race and Ethnicity
Dean’s List, Southern Illinois University at Carbondale
Graduation Cum Laude, Davidson College

PROFESSIONAL POSITIONS

 Private Practice Owner and Psychologist                                                                                                      June 00-Present

    Offices at Jefferson Street Counseling & Consulting, Boise

Duties: Full time private practice.  Provided a mix of adult, child, group, couples and family therapy, along with ADHD assessment and psychological evaluations. Presented programs on a wide variety of mental health topics, at the practice, at professional conferences, and on-site for corporate employers.  Therapy specialties include marital and family counseling, adolescents, effective parenting, divorce recovery, depression and anxiety, and ADHD assessment and treatment.  All services are available in Spanish.

 
Psychologist and Program Development Consultant

Terry Reilly Behavioral Health Center, Nampa                                                                                               Nov. 00-Oct. 04

Duties: Part-time contracted position.  Responsible for comprehensive reorganization and development of Terry Reilly’s Behavioral Health Center.  Developed a large group counseling program to eliminate the agency’s lengthy wait list while simultaneously resolving no-show and productivity issues.  Served as the functional supervisor of social work and support staff for 2 years.  Bilingual service provision.


Doctoral Intern                                                                                 
                                                               Aug 98-Aug 99

      Center for Student Development (Counseling Center), University of Memphis

Duties: Full-time predoctoral internship.  Counseled to 15-20 individuals and couples per week, and supervised a doctoral practicum student.  Administered and interpreted personality, intelligence and achievement instruments.  Tested and diagnosed learning disabilities and ADHD.  Populations included African-American, Asian, Caucasian, African, Hispanic, learning disabilities and developmentally disabilities.

PRESENTATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

    Hill, S.H.  (2009).  Contemporary ADHD Research Update.  Psychiatry Grand Rounds.  St. Alphonsus Hospital in conjunction with Sage Healthcare.

   Hill, S.H.  (2004-2007).  Contemporary Research Update on ADHD.  Idaho Counselor Association Annual Conference, Boise Family Practice M.D. Residency Program, Meridian Joint School District.

    Hill, S.H.  (2005).  Your ADHD Student Can Shine in School.  Idaho Counselor Association Annual Conference.

    Hill, S.H.  (2002).  Adapting Gestalt 2-Chair Techniques for Marital and Family Therapy.  Idaho Counselor Association Annual Conference.

    Hill, S.H.  (2001).  Guided Imagery and Meditative Relaxation Techniques.  Idaho School Counselor Association Annual Conference.

    Hill, S.H., Furness, T. J., Rueling Furness, S., Adkins, L.  (2000).  Brief Therapy Techniques for Parenting, Marital and ADHD Issues.  Idaho School Counselor Association Annual Conference.

    Nicholson, J. A., Hill, S. H., & Peaslee, A.  (1999).  Fears and Phobias: From Exhilaration to Terror.   Idaho Counselor Association Annual Conference.

    Hill, S. H., & Gilbert, D. G.  (1997).  Attribution-Making within the Distancer-Pursuer Dynamic.  Chicago, IL: American Psychological Association 105th Annual Conference.

    Rodgers, R., & Hill, S. H.  (1997).  Settling Down in Carbondale and the Counseling Psychology Program.  Available from Department of Psychology, SIUC Mailcode 6502, Carbondale, IL   62901.

    Hill, S. H.  (1996).  Adjusting to college.  SIUC Mental Health Web [on line].  Available: http://www.siu.edu/offices/counsel/topics.htm.

                                                                                                                                                                  Back to Top       


Radio Interviews
What to Expect
Professional Specialties
Insurance & Fees
Directions
Contact Me
 Free Presentations
Info. Before Starting Depression & Anxiety
Multiple Topics
Bipolar Info.
ADHD Info


logo
Independent Providers of
Counseling, Psychological &
Organizational Services

  Stephen H. Hill, Ph.D., PLLC 
Licensed Psychologist
 
   (208) 385-0888

  Where every problem receives extraordinary attention.

1517 W. Jefferson Street    Boise, ID  83702