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The 5 Reasons Americans Are Putting Off Medical Care

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The 5 Reasons Americans Are Putting Off Medical Care

According to a survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation, about one-third of adults in the United States had put off or skipped medical care in 2018 due to its high cost. This statistic is even higher for lower-income individuals and those without health insurance. With an aging population and rising costs, this issue is only growing more prominent. In this blog post, we’ll explore why Americans are putting off medical care and what can be done to address it. From financial concerns to high deductibles and lack of insurance, we’ll dive into all five reasons people are skipping out on necessary medical treatments.

The Cost of Medical Care

It’s no secret that the cost of medical care in the United States is skyrocketing. In fact, according to a recent study, the average American family now spends more on health care than they do on food. This is a startling statistic, and it’s one that is causing many Americans to put off needed medical care.

There are a number of reasons why medical care is so expensive in the United States. One of the biggest reasons is the high cost of prescription drugs. Prescription drugs make up a large portion of most Americans’ medical bills, and drug prices have been rising steadily for years. Another reason for the high cost of medical care is the fee-for-service model that many doctors and hospitals still use. This model means that doctors and hospitals are paid for each individual service they provide, regardless of whether or not it improves the patient’s health. This creates an incentive for providers to offer more tests and procedures, even when they may not be necessary.

The high cost of medical care is a major problem in the United States, and it’s one that is causing many people to put off needed care. If you’re struggling to afford your medical bills, there are a few things you can do to ease the financial burden. You may be able to negotiate with your doctor or hospital to lower your bill, or you can look into getting help from state or federal assistance programs. Whatever you do, don’t let the cost of medical care keep you from getting

The Lack of Insurance

The lack of insurance is one of the main reasons why Americans are putting off medical care. According to a recent study, nearly 30% of respondents said that they delayed getting medical care because they could not afford it. This is a significant increase from the 23% who said the same in 2010.

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One of the biggest problems with the lack of insurance is that it often means that people cannot get the preventive care they need. This can lead to serious health problems down the road, as well as increased costs for both the individual and the healthcare system as a whole.

There are a number of reasons why so many Americans lack health insurance. The cost of coverage has been rising steadily for years, and employer-sponsored plans have become increasingly rare. In addition, many people simply cannot afford to pay for coverage on their own.

The Affordable Care Act was designed to help address this problem, but its effects have been limited so far. In particular, the law’s individual mandate has been unpopular and has had little impact on coverage rates. As a result, millions of Americans remain uninsured and at risk of financial ruin if they experience a major health event.

The Fear of the Unknown

1. The Fear of the Unknown:

It’s no secret that many Americans are afraid of going to the doctor. In fact, a recent study found that nearly 1 in 3 adults in the U.S. say they have avoided seeing a doctor due to fear or anxiety.

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There are a number of reasons why people may be afraid of seeking medical care, but one of the most common is the fear of the unknown. When you don’t know what to expect, it can be scary to go through with medical procedures or even just to schedule an appointment.

If you’re afraid of the unknown when it comes to your health, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. Talk to your friends and family about their experiences with doctors and healthcare, and look for resources that can help you understand what to expect. With a little knowledge, you can take control of your health and feel more confident about seeking medical care.

The Inconvenience of Scheduling Appointments

The average American has a lot on their plate. Between work, family, and social obligations, it can be hard to find time to schedule appointments for routine medical care. And when you do have time for an appointment, it can be difficult to get in to see your doctor when you need to.

According to a recent survey, nearly 60% of Americans have put off medical care because it was too inconvenient to schedule an appointment.1 This is especially true for routine care like dental appointments and physicals.

One of the biggest reasons people put off medical care is because they can’t get in to see their doctor when they need to. According to the same survey, nearly 40% of Americans have had trouble getting an appointment with their doctor within the last year.2

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This is especially true for primary care doctors. A recent study found that the average wait time to see a primary care doctor was 24 days.3 That’s almost a month! And if you need to see a specialist, the wait time can be even longer.4

Another reason people put off medical care is because of the cost. Even with health insurance, medical bills can be expensive. According to a recent survey, nearly 30% of Americans have put off medical care because of the cost.5

If you’re putting off medical care because of the inconvenience or cost, you’re not alone. But there are ways to make it easier to get

The Difficulty of Finding a Doctor

It’s no secret that the cost of healthcare in the United States is skyrocketing. In fact, according to a recent study, the average American family now spends more on healthcare than they do on food. With costs rising and wages stagnant, it’s no wonder that so many people are putting off medical care.

But the cost of healthcare isn’t the only reason that Americans are avoiding doctors. According to a new poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, nearly 1 in 5 adults say they have put off medical care because they couldn’t find a doctor who was accepting new patients.

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This problem is especially prevalent among low-income Americans and those who live in rural areas. In fact, nearly 1 in 3 low-income adults say they have put off medical care because they couldn’t find a doctor who was accepting new patients. And while nearly 9 in 10 urbanites say they have easy access to a doctor, just over half of rural residents say the same.

The difficulty of finding a doctor is just one of the many reasons that Americans are putting off medical care. With costs rising and access dwindling, it’s no wonder so many people are going without the care they need.

Conclusion

As healthcare costs have risen over the past decade, many Americans are finding themselves putting off necessary medical care due to financial strain. We’ve discussed five of the most common reasons why people may be avoiding or delaying their medical appointments, including a lack of insurance coverage, expensive copays and deductibles, long wait times for appointments, inconvenience related to transportation and scheduling issues, and general mistrust in doctors. It’s important for individuals struggling with these issues to know that there are options available that can help them access the care they need without breaking the bank.

 

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PBMC Samples for Immune Profiling and Biomarker Discovery

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By Delilah Parker

Human PBMC Samples

Introduction

In today’s rapidly evolving biomedical landscape, understanding the human immune system is essential for developing targeted therapies, diagnostic tools, and disease-monitoring strategies. Among the most valuable resources available to immunologists and translational researchers are Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMCs) a diverse population of immune cells that play a central role in human immunity. Whether for vaccine development, immuno-oncology studies, infectious disease research, or chronic inflammatory conditions, PBMCs remain a gold standard for immune profiling and biomarker discovery.

This article explores why researchers worldwide rely on PBMC samples, how high-quality processing influences scientific outcomes, and why specialized peripheral blood mononuclear cells services, blood mononuclear cells services, and peripheral mononuclear cells services have become indispensable for advanced biomedical research.

PBMCs: A Critical Window Into the Human Immune System

Human PBMC Samples

PBMCs composed mainly of lymphocytes (T cells, B cells, NK cells) and monocytes are central players in innate and adaptive immunity. Their unique functional and phenotypic diversity makes them ideal for studying immune pathways, disease mechanisms, and therapeutic responses.

Because PBMCs can be isolated directly from peripheral blood with minimal invasiveness, they provide a practical and scalable resource for:

  • Immunophenotyping and immune monitoring
  • Functional studies involving cytokine production
  • Drug screening for immunomodulatory compounds
  • Vaccine efficacy testing
  • Disease-specific biomarker identification
  • Genetic and transcriptomic profiling

Given their versatility, PBMCs serve as a reliable foundation for both basic discovery science and clinical trial research.

Why PBMC Samples Are Essential for Immune Profiling

1. Ability to Capture Real-Time Immune Activity

PBMCs reflect current immunological status, allowing researchers to analyze immune function at specific time points during disease progression or treatment. This real-time snapshot is invaluable for:

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  • Monitoring immune activation
  • Assessing inflammatory markers
  • Tracking T-cell exhaustion and activation states
  • Evaluating vaccine-induced immune responses

As therapeutic development moves toward more personalized and biomarker-driven approaches, PBMCs enable researchers to characterize immune responses with precision.

2. Ideal for Multiparametric Immune Analysis

High-dimensional platforms such as flow cytometry, mass cytometry (CyTOF), ELISpot, and single-cell RNA sequencing depend on viable, well-preserved PBMCs. These technologies enable researchers to simultaneously evaluate:

  • Cell surface marker expression
  • Intracellular cytokines
  • Functional immune responses
  • Cell-type heterogeneity

This level of complexity is crucial for understanding disease mechanisms in fields such as oncology, autoimmune disease, and infectious disease.

3. Consistency Across Longitudinal Studies

Long-term clinical studies depend on consistent sample collection and processing. PBMCs provide an ideal resource because they can be:

  • Cryopreserved for extended periods
  • Thawed with high viability when processed correctly
  • Standardized across large, multi-site clinical studies

Researchers rely on PBMCs to ensure reproducibility, which is especially important in biomarker-driven trials.

PBMC Samples and Biomarker Discovery

1. Identifying Disease-Specific Immune Signatures

In recent years, PBMCs have become central to identifying immune-related biomarkers in conditions such as:

  • Cancer (particularly immuno-oncology)
  • Autoimmune disorders (e.g., lupus, rheumatoid arthritis)
  • Infectious diseases (HIV, tuberculosis, COVID-19)
  • Neuroinflammatory diseases
  • Metabolic and chronic inflammatory disorders

These pbmc disease samples help reveal immune dysregulation patterns, such as T-cell exhaustion, cytokine imbalances, or abnormal monocyte activation—offering powerful insights into disease mechanisms.

2. Predicting Patient Response to Therapy

Biomarkers derived from PBMCs can help predict treatment outcomes, especially in fields like:

  • Checkpoint inhibitor therapy
  • CAR-T cell therapy
  • Antiviral treatments
  • Immunomodulatory therapies

PBMC-based biomarkers guide patient stratification, enabling more targeted clinical trials and reducing variability in therapeutic development.

3. Supporting Precision Diagnostics

Researchers increasingly use PBMCs to develop diagnostic assays, including:

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  • Immune activation signatures
  • Cytokine panels
  • Cell population ratios
  • Gene-expression profiles

These biomarkers support personalized medicine approaches across several therapeutic areas, making PBMCs a vital asset for biotech and pharma companies.

The Role of Specialized PBMC Services

As research demands grow, companies developing therapies, diagnostics, and immuno-modulating drugs require standardized, high-quality PBMCs. This has significantly increased reliance on professional peripheral blood mononuclear cells services, blood mononuclear cells services, and peripheral mononuclear cells services that provide:

1. High-Quality Isolation and Processing

Standardization in:

  • Ficoll or density-gradient separation
  • Automated PBMC isolation
  • RBC/platelet removal
  • Cryopreservation protocols
  • Viability testing

ensures reliable performance across experiments and long-term studies.

2. Disease-Specific PBMC Collections

Many researchers require pbmc disease samples from patients with cancer, autoimmune disease, metabolic disorders, or infectious diseases. Professional biospecimen providers ensure:

  • IRB-approved collection
  • Detailed clinical metadata
  • Consistent processing timelines
  • High post-thaw viability

These factors directly influence the success of biomarker discovery and immune profiling research.

3. Scalability for Trials and Multi-Site Studies

PBMC outsourcing services help streamline:

  • Large-volume procurement
  • Longitudinal sample collection
  • Sample banking and storage
  • Global distribution for multi-center trials

This support is critical for pharma and biotech companies running Phase I–IV trials.

Why High-Quality PBMC Samples Determine Research Success

Ultimately, PBMCs influence the accuracy, reproducibility, and credibility of scientific findings. Poor-quality samples improperly isolated, poorly cryopreserved, or inconsistently processed can compromise entire datasets, delay studies, or lead to misleading conclusions.

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Reliable PBMC sourcing ensures:

  • High cell viability
  • Preserved immune function
  • Reproducible biomarker readouts
  • Confidence in downstream analytical assays

As biomedical research becomes increasingly immune-centric, the importance of dependable PBMC resources continues to grow.

Conclusion

PBMC samples remain the foundation of modern immunology research, enabling breakthroughs in immune profiling, vaccine development, immunotherapy, and biomarker discovery. With the growing complexity of immune analysis and the demand for standardized biospecimens, researchers and biotech organizations increasingly rely on specialized peripheral blood mononuclear cells services, blood mononuclear cells services, peripheral mononuclear cells services, and disease-specific PBMC collections.

From understanding disease mechanisms to developing novel therapeutics, PBMCs provide the clarity and reliability scientists need to push scientific innovation forward.

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What Causes Warts to Appear Inside the Mouth? 

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By Emilia Mark

Introduction

When you first notice a small bump on your tongue or inside your mouth, it can be easy to ignore. However, over time, you may start to wonder what caused it and whether it will go away on its own. Many people turn to medical guidance to understand tongue warts’ causes and treatment, because these growths often appear quietly and can change subtly before you even notice them. 

Oral warts usually start as soft, painless bumps, yet you might feel them when moving your tongue or swallowing. They develop slowly, as the virus behind them settles into the soft tissue, which makes the early stages easy to miss. By paying attention to these changes, you can recognize the signs sooner and take steps to address them safely. 

The Role of HPV in Oral Warts

1. How HPV Enters the Mouth

Most oral warts appear because HPV finds a small entry point inside your mouth. You may have tiny cuts or soft spots that feel normal, yet these areas make it easier for the virus to settle. Even a small abrasion can give HPV the space it needs. You often get exposed through common habits. For example, close contact with saliva or oral surfaces is one of the simplest ways it spreads. 

Because HPV works quietly, you rarely feel anything when it enters. However, as time passes, the virus takes hold in the cells and starts building those tiny clusters. You might not notice signs for weeks, which makes it harder to trace where it came from. 

2. Why Some People Develop Warts, and Others Do Not

You may wonder why your friend stays clear while you deal with bumps. A lot depends on how your immune system reacts. Some people fight the virus right away, yet others let it stay active longer. Stress, frequent irritation, and overall health play a big role too. These factors make some people more sensitive to viral changes, and that leads to visible warts inside the mouth. 

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Everyday Behaviors That Increase the Chances of Oral Warts

Daily habits that seem harmless can raise your risk. You might share drinks often without thinking twice. You may bite the inside of your cheek when stressed. Even constantly touching your mouth with unwashed hands adds to the chance of infection. These small moments allow the virus to settle into the tissue. 

Because you use your mouth so much throughout the day, the lining inside stays active and delicate. When it faces repeated irritation, it becomes easier for infections to grow. You may not feel these tiny openings at all, but the virus notices them quickly. 

Below are common everyday actions that may increase your chances: 

  • Sharing drinks 
  • Using unclean dental tools 
  • Lip to mouth contact 
  • Long-term irritation inside the mouth 

These habits do not guarantee warts, yet they influence how your mouth responds to viral exposure.

Also Read: What You Should Know About Blood Cancer: Symptoms and Diagnosis 

Signs That Suggest the Wart Is Growing or Spreading

When a wart grows, you start noticing changes in texture first. It may feel rougher than the surrounding skin, or it may look slightly raised. Because the mouth is sensitive, these small differences stand out. At first, you might think it is just a harmless bump, yet ongoing changes tell you otherwise. 

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Sometimes the wart grows slowly. Other times, it spreads into small clusters. When this happens, the area may look uneven or cauliflower-like. You may notice the wart shifting in size when you press your tongue against it. 

Although these bumps stay painless most of the time, you should still pay attention to their shape. Large or fast-growing warts need medical guidance. When you notice that the bump keeps coming back or getting wider, that is a sign to get it checked. 

Conditions That Make You More Sensitive to Oral Warts

Your mouth reacts strongly to your health. When your immune system slows down, you become more prone to viral infections. Stress plays a bigger role than most people think. You might feel tired, overloaded, or anxious. These emotional states affect your immunity and make it easier for warts to grow. 

Existing mouth injuries also matter. A sore spot or a cracked area on your lip becomes an open doorway for the virus. When the tissue already struggles to heal, HPV finds a place to attach. Because these injuries are common, you may not notice them until the wart appears. 

You may also face a higher risk if you deal with dental problems or certain lifestyle habits. Below are common factors: 

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  • Gum disease 
  • Chronic biting of cheeks or lips 
  • Vitamin deficiency 
  • Smoking or vaping 

These conditions weaken your natural defense and allow oral warts to settle more easily. 

Treatment Options You May Be Offered

Once a specialist looks at the wart, you get several treatment choices. Doctors often remove warts that show signs of spreading. Removal methods are simple and usually done in a short visit. These include freezing, surgical trimming, or laser removal. The method depends on the size and location.

You also get instructions on how to care for the area afterward. This part matters because proper aftercare prevents the wart from returning. Your doctor may suggest rinses, topical solutions, or small lifestyle changes to help with healing.

In some cases, when the growth looks unusual or does not improve, a biopsy is recommended. This step helps confirm that the tissue is safe. It also rules out other oral conditions that may look similar. While this can sound intimidating, it gives you clarity.

When You Should See a Specialist

You should meet a specialist when the wart keeps returning or becomes painful. Mouth tissues heal fast, so anything that lingers needs attention. If the bump changes color or looks irregular, you should have it checked soon.

A specialist understands these patterns clearly. You get answers based on real tests instead of guesswork. Early guidance protects your oral health and helps you avoid long-term issues.

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How Clinical Research Helps Us Understand Mouth Warts Better

Clinical research offers new ways to study viral behavior. You benefit from this because it leads to better treatments. Research teams work with different cases, observe patterns, and track how the virus changes over time. 

These studies also help doctors develop safer methods to manage oral warts. By learning from each patient, researchers build stronger evidence that shapes the way specialists treat these conditions. 

Conclusion

Keeping an eye on small bumps inside your mouth helps you catch potential problems early. You now understand how oral warts form, the factors that increase your risk, and when it’s important to seek medical guidance. If you want to take an active role in supporting research and helping advance treatment options, you can join warts research studies in Boston. 

We, at MBCP, are dedicated to improving patient care through research and clinical studies. By participating, you can gain access to expert guidance and innovative treatment approaches. Your involvement can make a difference in understanding and managing oral warts effectively. 

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Melbourne Psychotherapy Services | Cairnmillar Institute

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By Willow Hunter

Melbourne Psychotherapy Services | Cairnmillar Institute Support

Introduction

Mental health is an important part of overall well-being, and the right support can really help. Melbourne has many psychotherapy services for stress, anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges. Cairnmillar Institute is a leading provider, offering professional and personalised support. With caring therapists and proven methods, Cairnmillar helps individuals, families, and groups improve their mental health and live more fulfilling lives.

Understanding Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is a type of therapy that helps people understand their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It can help with issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship problems. Sessions usually involve talking with a trained therapist in a safe, confidential space. Psychotherapy also teaches coping skills and helps build emotional strength. Melbourne’s services are designed to be effective, accessible, and tailored to each person.

People often seek psychotherapy to:

  • Understand themselves better
  • Improve relationships
  • Handle life changes
  • Explore long-term patterns or reactions
  • Build a stronger sense of identity and purpose
  • Learn healthier ways to cope and communicate

Psychotherapy is different for everyone. This flexibility makes it a trusted and effective approach for many people in Melbourne.

Role of Cairnmillar Institute Support

The Cairnmillar Institute plays an important role in supporting psychotherapy services in Melbourne. It provides trained therapists, counseling programs, and mental health workshops for clients. The institute also trains future therapists, ensuring that the city has skilled professionals available. Through its support, individuals can access structured, evidence-based therapy, while therapists receive guidance and professional development. Cairnmillar acts as both a service provider and an educational hub, strengthening Melbourne’s mental health resources.

Benefits of Melbourne Psychotherapy Services

Psychotherapy helps people manage stress, anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges. Therapists provide a safe place to share feelings and learn coping skills. Psychotherapy also improves relationships, supports personal growth, and boosts overall well-being. Institutes like Cairnmillar give professional guidance and tools to help clients live healthier, more balanced lives.

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Services Offered by Cairnmillar Institute

Cairnmillar Institute offers many types of psychotherapy, including individual, couples, family, and group therapy. Each service is designed to meet specific needs and help clients reach their goals. Therapists use proven methods like cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and psychodynamic therapy to help people understand their thoughts and behaviors, reduce stress, and improve mental health.

1. Individual Therapy

Individual therapy focuses on personal challenges and emotional well-being. It allows clients to explore their thoughts and feelings with a trained professional. Common issues addressed in individual therapy include anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and self-esteem concerns. Therapists work closely with clients to develop personalized strategies and coping skills. Individual therapy at Cairnmillar Institute provides a safe space for reflection, self-discovery, and growth.

2. Couples and Family Therapy

Relationships can be complex, and conflicts can affect emotional health. Couples and family therapy help people improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen connections. Cairnmillar Institute offers supportive therapy sessions that guide couples and families in understanding each other better. Therapists encourage open communication and provide tools to manage disagreements in healthy ways. These services aim to foster stronger, more positive relationships.

3. Group Therapy

Group therapy offers the chance to connect with others facing similar challenges. In a supportive setting, participants share experiences, learn coping strategies, and gain new perspectives. Cairnmillar Institute’s group therapy sessions cover various topics, such as anxiety management, grief support, and stress reduction. Being part of a group helps clients feel less isolated and builds a sense of community and belonging.

Why Choose Cairnmillar Institute

Cairnmillar Institute is recognized for its professional and compassionate approach to mental health care. Therapists are highly trained and experienced in a range of therapeutic methods. They focus on creating a safe, welcoming environment for all clients. Cairnmillar also emphasizes personalized care, ensuring therapy is tailored to each individual’s needs. With a strong commitment to evidence-based practice, the Institute helps clients achieve meaningful improvements in mental health and well-being.

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Benefits of Psychotherapy

Engaging in psychotherapy offers many benefits. It can reduce stress, improve mood, and increase self-awareness. Therapy helps individuals develop better coping strategies, manage emotions, and build healthier relationships. Regular sessions can also promote personal growth, resilience, and a greater sense of life satisfaction. By choosing professional psychotherapy services in Melbourne, individuals can take an important step toward long-term mental wellness.

Accessing Psychotherapy Services in Melbourne

Accessing psychotherapy in Melbourne is easier than ever. Cairnmillar Institute provides flexible scheduling options, including in-person and online sessions. This ensures that clients can receive support in a convenient and comfortable way. The Institute also accepts referrals from general practitioners and other healthcare providers, helping clients navigate the mental health system smoothly. With a focus on accessibility, Cairnmillar makes it simple for people to get the help they need when they need it most.

Conclusion

Melbourne psychotherapy services, especially those offered by Cairnmillar Institute, provide valuable support for anyone seeking better mental health and emotional well-being. With a range of therapy options, professional therapists, and evidence-based approaches, Cairnmillar helps individuals, couples, and families address challenges and achieve meaningful change. By seeking professional guidance, people can learn to manage stress, improve relationships, and lead more fulfilling lives. Cairnmillar Institute is dedicated to helping the Melbourne community thrive through compassionate and effective psychotherapy.

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    The Cairnmillar Institute is one of Australia’s leading centers for psychology and counselling services and an industry leader in psychology education and training. Founded by Professor Emeritus Dr Francis Macnab in 1961, the Cairnmillar Institute pioneered counselling and psychotherapy in Australia. View all posts

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