Center for Excellence in Rural Health-Hazard

Psychologist Set to Join Local UK Clinic

HAZARD, Ky. (Sept. 28, 2009) − The University of Kentucky North Fork Valley Community Health Center is adding another clinical psychologist to its team of health care providers.

Dr. Hobie Dotson will begin treating patients at the clinic, located at 750 Morton Blvd. in Hazard, on October 1. He offers a broad range of behavioral health services, with special interests in "positive" psychology, mindfulness and relationship counseling.

"I am delighted that UK HealthCare is bringing Dr. Dotson’s expertise to the UK North Fork Valley Community Health Center," said Dr. Baretta R. Casey, director of the UK Center for Excellence in Rural Health-Hazard, which hosts the clinic. "He will be a strong advocate for the behavioral health needs of our patients."

Dotson, a native of Pike County, said he was drawn to the medical profession − and psychology in particular − by a desire to assist those who are in need.

"One of the things I’ve always wanted to do is connect with others, to make a difference," Dotson said. "This position will enable me to help those who aren’t receiving care − the medically underserved. At the same time, I have an opportunity to give back to the region I come from."

Dotson earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and philosophy from UK and master’s and doctor of psychology degrees from Spalding University in Louisville. He then performed a one-year internship at the University of Maine Counseling Center and recently completed a two-year fellowship with the University of Georgia’s Counseling and Psychological Services in Atlanta.

"The stigma of mental health is dissipating, and for good reason," Dotson said. "Anyone can benefit from counseling. I would encourage people who want to improve their lives to consider an office visit − you’re welcome here."

Dotson has treated patients ranging in age from children to senior citizens. He will offer counseling services to the general public, in addition to psychological services and behavioral health assessments and evaluations. Dotson joins Dr. Tamara L. Knox, the UK North Fork Valley Community Health Center’s other clinical psychologist.

The clinic’s primary care services include treatment of acute illnesses, preventive and sports medicine, women’s health and maternity care, pediatric and geriatric care, and immunizations. As a federally funded health center, it is required to deliver care regardless of patients’ ability to pay, and charges for services are set according to patients’ respective income levels.

The clinic also offers dental, laboratory and pharmacy services to residents of Perry and surrounding counties.

Dotson plans to live in the Hazard area.

To schedule an appointment with Dotson, you may call (606) 439-1559 or 1-800-851-7512. Also, walk-ins are always welcome. For additional information about the community health center, visit www.mc.uky.edu/ruralhealth/nfvchc.asp.