Convention and Continuing Education

Abstract:  Various technologies may be integrated into mental health practice, both for administrative and clinical purposes. These include the telephone, e-mail, text messaging, Apps, and interactive televideo communications. The relative merits of each for augmenting in-person treatment as well as as the sole medium for providing professional services across distances will be reviewed along with their potential limitations and challenges. Ethics and legal issues and concerns regarding integrating these various technologies into practice will be addressed and recommendations for the effective, ethical, and legal practice of behavioral telehealth will be made.

Abstract:
This webinar provides an overview of Parent‑Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), an evidence-based behavioral treatment for families of young children with severe behavior problems. PCIT is based on Baumrind’s developmental theory, which holds that authoritative parenting – a combination of nurturance, good communication, and firm limits – produces optimal child mental health outcomes.  In PCIT, parents learn authoritative parenting skills through direct therapist coaching of parent‑child interactions, guided by observational data collected in each session. Therapists coach parents  using a Bluetooth-type device from behind a one-way mirror, as the parent interacts with the child. Parents receive immediate feedback on their use of techniques such as differential social attention and consistent consequences as they practice new relationship-enhancement and limit-setting skills. Children learn appropriate play and social skills through daily play therapy sessions with the parent. Children’s defiance, aggression, and tantrums decrease as parents gradually introduce compliance training procedures into the home. Videotape review and slides will be used to teach participants the basic parenting skills, coding procedures, and coaching techniques, as well as to provide an overview of the research supporting the intervention. Applications of PCIT within physically abusive families and other populations will be discussed.

Abstract: "Clinical perfectionism" is a highly specific construct designed to capture the type of perfectionism that can often poses problems in routine therapeutic practice. The core psychopathology of clinical perfectionism is an over evaluation of achievement and striving that causes significant adverse consequences.

Clinical perfectionism has been implicated in the maintenance of psychopathology, in particular eating disorders. A specific cognitive-behavioural intervention has been developed by the Oxford Eating Disorders Research Group for the treatment of clinical perfectionism in Axis I disorders including eating disorders, anxiety disorders and depression. The intervention has been enhanced by incorporating techniques used by clinical research groups in Australia. It can be delivered in traditional face-to-face individual or group therapy, or in the form of online self-help. The treatment has evaluated in a recent meta-analysis which demonstrated a positive impact on both perfectionism and Axis I disorders.

Abstract: The primary purpose of this webinar is to provide a practical guide to the meaning and applicability of the APA’s Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct to the professional practice of psychology. The webinar will put into practical perspective the rational behind and application of ethical standards to the broad spectrum of professional roles and activities of psychologists using clear examples of behaviors that would be in compliance with or in violation of enforceable standards.  Using case examples the workshop is intended to assist psychologists in effectively using the Ethics Code to address new ethical challenges that continue to emerge in the rapidly changing new technologies, evidence-based practice competencies, cultural landscape, and health care law.

Abstract:
Body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs), including hair pulling and skin picking, are receiving increasing recognition given their prevalence rates, potential medical complications and functional impact. Although empirical evidence supports CBT as the first-line intervention, these disorders can remain challenging to treat. This webinar will review existing treatment approaches and highlight ways to improve treatment efficacy.

Abstract:

In this webinar, Dr. Natalia Skritskaya will describe a model of grief and adaptation to loss that is derived from clinical and experimental research. She will discuss the new diagnosis of Prolonged Grief Disorder and differentiating this condition from major depression and PTSD. She will also introduce Prolonged Grief Disorder Treatment, previously known as Complicated Grief Treatment, an evidence-based efficacious psychotherapy for prolonged grief disorder.

Abstract:

Organization, Time Management, and Planning are hindered in ADHD.  Problems with these skills have an impact on school and adjustment in childhood, adolescence, and contribute to limited adult success as well.  For over 10 years, we have conducted a thorough program to understand OTMP deficits in ADHD.  Our extensive efforts supported by foundation and federal government grants have provided insights into the assessment and effective treatment of OTMP deficits.  We have a sound program that has been fully tested with elementary school age children and a promising program for middle school children. Additionally, we have used insights from this work to begin development of programs for high school and college students.  This presentation will review our systematic program of research and resulting assessment and intervention tools. 

Abstract:  Achieving effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy across a diversity of patients continues to be a foremost concern of clinicians and clinical researchers alike. Further, therapeutic alliance appears to be an important feature in supporting favorable outcomes from evidence-based treatments. Yet, there remains a scarcity of empirical data testing specific features that most readily facilitate effective collaboration in a multi-cultural therapy relationship. This webinar aims to enhance clinicians’ competency in providing multi-cultural therapy within the context of CBT, via discussion of empirically-derived guidelines for achieving this goal in therapy with patients (and therapists) of various cultural/racial backgrounds. A multi-cultural case study presenting with several co-morbid Axis I disorders is briefly provided to exemplify the practical application of these guidelines over the course of CBT.

Abstract: Brief Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (BCBT) for suicide risk is a 12-session outpatient psychological treatment that directly targets the cognitive, affective, and behavioral mechanisms that underlie suicidal behavior. Results of a recently-completed randomized controlled trial indicate that BCBT reduces suicide attempts by 60% among active duty military personnel as compared to treatment as usual. The current workshop is designed to provide participants with a summary of critical treatment components when working with suicidal patients and an overview of the BCBT protocol.

Abstract:
Sexual orientation disparities in mental health and related psychosocial outcomes are one of the most robust population disparities in psychiatric epidemiology, likely driven by LGB people's disproportionate exposure to stigma-related stress.  This presentation will review the first evidence-based treatment package to reduce depression, anxiety, and related health conditions by reducing the processes through which stigma-related stress impairs the mental health of this population. Attendees will learn to utilize LGB-affirmative therapeutic principles and techniques to adapt standard cognitive-behavioral approaches to specifically address the stigma-related stress faced by LGB people across development.  Preliminary efficacy data from a recent RCT will be presented suggesting that this LGB-affirmative treatment package, called ESTEEM, can reduce sexual minority men's depression, alcohol abuse, sexual compulsivity, and HIV risk behavior.

Abstract:  Implementation science, or the study of methods to improve the adoption, implementation, and sustainment of evidence-based practices such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), is relevant from bench to bedside. This presentation will review the basic principles of implementation science, including definitions, methods, design, and outcomes. We will also delineate how the principles of implementation science can be applied to treatment development, outcome research, and routine practice, whether within or outside traditional mental health settings. We will conclude with a discussion on how implementation science can inform practical implementation efforts which endeavor to implement evidence-based practice in the service of improving patient, clinic, and system outcomes

Abstract:
Adequate sleep is essential for all age groups, but sleep during childhood is particularly critical based on its temporal overlap with brain development and physical growth. In addition to sleep problems that persist into adulthood, insomnia in childhood is a potent risk factor for a wide range of negative outcomes including overweight/obesity, inattention, hyperactivity, learning problems, conduct problems, substance use, anxiety, and depression. Unfortunately, up to 70% of children in the U.S. age 10 and under experience a sleep problem several times per week. Effective, evidence-based treatments are available, but the number of providers with training in behavioral sleep interventions is limited. This webinar will provide a comprehensive overview of insomnia in children. Following brief review of the essential role of sleep in childhood and specific factors that give rise to poor sleep, validated assessment tools that provide a comprehensive understanding of children’s sleep problems will be discussed. Evidence-based treatment strategies will then be presented and discussed in the context of a  case example.

Abstract:  The developmental transition from adolescence to early adulthood is characterized as a time of uncertainty and instability but also of optimism and growth (see Arnett, 2004).  For youth suffering with an anxiety disorder, this period can be fraught with impairments in meeting everyday tasks, resulting in a failure to achieve independent functioning. CBT and medication are effective treatments for anxiety in adolescents and children (Walkup, et al., 2008), however, long-term remission through the transition to adulthood is not maintained for nearly half of effectively treated youth (Ginsburg et al., 2014). Missing from our studies of clinical treatments has been a focus not just on anxiety management in the present, but on assisting youth and families in understanding and meeting the tasks of development.  Central also, to treatment, is for youth to take on the challenges of anxiety and daily living with appropriate parental guidance and support.  In this webinar, Dr. Albano will discuss the Launching Emerging Adults Program (LEAP), a model integrating the core components of effective CBT for anxiety in adolescents and young adults with novel components designed to address patient-caretaker dependency, role transitions, and attainment of behaviors necessary for independent functioning.  LEAP is a developmentally-informed treatment aimed at both syndrome relief and improved functioning, based on our experiences in treating transition-aged youth and informed by critical reviews of the developmental psychology of emerging adulthood (e.g., Arnett, 2004).  Dr. Albano will present the LEAP-specific assessment and treatment protocol with an emphasis on novel components including: negotiating a developmental hierarchy, planning for parental “letting go” while engaging and addressing core beliefs and fears of the parents and their emerging adult child, and engaging youth in community-based group exposures.

Abstract: This webinar will present an overview of the various dilemmas and challenges faced by psychologists in their clinical work.  Available data of vulnerable areas for practitioners will be provided to increase practitioner's awareness, including from the Insurance Trust regarding primary allegations in losses; the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB) summary of reported disciplinary actions for psychologists by licensing boards; and the American Psychological Association Ethics Office summary of number and types of complaints.  Controversial changes in the adjudication processes of cases in the latter will be briefly described. Strategies to prevent violations will be reviewed, including basic tasks for professional ethics, moral principles that underlie the Ethics Code standards, and information from various guidelines. A model for resolving ethical dilemmas will be provided as foundation for developing an ethical orientation to aid in ethical decision making.

Abstract:

The Unified Protocols for Transdiagnostic Treatment of Emotional Disorders in Children and Adolescents (UP-C/UP-A) present the compelling idea that there may be a more efficient method of presenting effective strategies, such as those commonly included in CBT and third-wave behavior therapies, in order to simultaneously address an array of emotional disorder concerns in children and adolescents. The child and adolescent Unified Protocols frame treatment strategies in the general language of strong or intense emotions and promote change through a common lens that can be flexibly adapted across youth emotional disorders, including anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorders and others, sub-threshold presentations of such or combinations of these problem areas. Specifically, the UP-C and UP-A help youth by allowing them to focus on a straightforward goal across emotional disorders: reducing intense negative emotion states by extinguishing the distress and anxiety these emotions produce through emotion-focused education, awareness techniques, cognitive strategies, problem-solving and an array of behavioral strategies, including a full-range of exposure and activation techniques. This webinar will provide a comprehensive introduction to the UP-A, a modular, individual therapy for adolescents; and, a more structured, group therapy for children (UP-C), the latter of which also includes a full parent-directed curriculum. Case illustrations and brief technique demonstrations throughout the webinar will help illustrate the flexible nature of the UP-C and UP-A materials and how they may be utilized in a clinician-directed manner to optimize and personalize treatment outcomes.

Abstract:

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a severe body image disorder characterized by a preoccupation with an imagined or slight defect in appearance. The most common appearance preoccupations involve face or head (e.g., skin, hair), but any body part can be the focus of concern. BDD is a relatively common and often disabling illness with high suicide rates. The purpose of this webinar is to provide information on empirically-validated cognitive-behavioral interventions designed to help individuals with BDD. The presenter will first describe how to correctly recognize, diagnose, and conceptualize individuals with BDD. Participants will then learn a range of therapeutic techniques including: cognitive strategies for delusional and non-delusional BDD, metaphors and mindfulness exercises, strategies to address low self-esteem and over-importance of appearance, novel strategies to reduce common BDD behaviors (e.g., body checking, comparing themselves with others, avoidance behaviors), attentional retraining, and strategies for involving patients’ families. In addition, motivational strategies for helping patients overcome resistance to treatment will be presented.

Abstract:

The prevalence of depression and other psychiatric disorders is elevated in medical illness in general and HIV in particular.  Additionally, depression, in the context of chronic illness, is associated with worse self-care and adherence behaviors, which therefore can lead to increased morbidity.  Evidenced based psychosocial interventions can be a useful component to managing depression and self-care in the context of medical illness, and approaches used in HIV can be applied to other illnesses.  In HIV, the major self-care behaviors are adherence to daily medications and managing sexual transmission risk.  The present webinar will first review data on depression comorbid with HIV, including prevalence estimates, and data on its association with adherence.  It will then provide an overview of one studied intervention, Cognitive-behavioral therapy for adherence and depression (CBT-AD), and review data on its efficacy.  It will also discuss other approaches to managing depression in HIV, including medications, and data on the outcomes of these approaches.  It will conclude by discussion depression and additional comorbidities in individuals living with HIV who do not benefit from antiretroviral therapy.  

Abstract:

Given the preponderance of evidence supporting the efficacy of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), there has been an increased emphasis on dissemination to community mental health systems (CMH).This webinar will focus on the challenges for implementation of CBT with community mental health clinicians with respect to support, assistance, and resources CMH clinicians need as they continue to build CBT competency. Common stuck points in training will be discussed. Several basic strategies identified by trainers to be commonly used during consultation (adherence to structure, behavioral rehearsals, practice sample review, and case consultation) will be reviewed.  Additionally, difficulties in implementing the most effective strategies including experiential learning, practice sample review, and case conceptualization will be discussed. Finally, the relation between implementation models that add case consultation and treatment adherence and intervention skill across CMH clinicians will be highlighted.

Abstract: eHealth and mHealth technologies, such as Internet websites, mobile apps, and wearable devices, have been increasingly developed to deliver and facilitate behavioral and cognitive treatments. Accumulating research continues to demonstrate the efficacy of such resources for improving the management of behavioral and mental health issues with strong support for behavioral and cognitive approaches. Unfortunately, few practitioners have received training or education regarding practical concerns related to these technological resources or best practices for integrating them into practice. This webinar will present strategies for identifying and evaluating eHealth and mHealth technologies and discuss a variety of practical concerns including understanding data security and privacy, using technology to support treatment, and documenting the use of technology in clinical notes. We will discuss the evolving regulatory landscape regarding websites, apps, and digital therapeutics and provide guidance as to how professionals can better understand, search for, and evaluate different resources. We will then present information regarding clinical integration of technologies including working technology into one’s workflow, introduction technologies into clinical care, using technologies in support of a treatment plan, reviewing data collected through these resources, and documenting the use of technologies in clinical records. We will close with a discussion of some emerging technologies in the behavioral and mental health space to provide practitioners with some ideas of what to expect in this rapidly developing and evolving field.

Abstract: 

The science of behavior change in children with autism is well developed and sophisticated. The science and practice of changing the behavior of educators to increase their use of evidence-based practices lags far behind, however. Nowhere is this more evident than in low-resource public schools, where poor pre-service training, school resources, and organizational culture and climate all can contribute to inadequate implementation of evidence-based practices. In these situations, traditional consultation and training practices often don’t result in desired change. In this presentation, I describe a 10-year public-academic partnership and line of research in Philadelphia through which we have developed the science and practice of supporting public school teachers working under difficult circumstances.

Abstract: This presentation will: 1) sum up findings of approximately 40 randomized, controlled trials evaluating the effects of cognitive rehabilitation on cognitive outcomes in SMI; 2) demonstrate the basics of cognitive training programs, including cognitive practice software, strategy coaching, meta cognitive strategies, and compensatory strategies; 3) provide examples of the generalization of cognitive task practice to performance of work tasks; 4) describe the Thinking Skills for Work Program, a cognitive enhancement program that is integrated with supported employment, and contains 5 specific components, including assessment, cognitive task practice, individualized self-management strategies, job search planning, and job support consultation.

Abstract:

Integrative Behavioral Couple Therapy (IBCT) is an evidence-based approach to the treatment of couples developed by Andrew Christensen from UCLA and the late Neil S. Jacobson from the University of Washington. IBCT is integrative in that it brings together the twin goals of emotional acceptance and behavior change. Also, it integrates a variety of treatment strategies under a consistent behavioral theoretical framework. IBCT is part of what some have called the “third wave” of behavior therapy.  Like other so-called “third wave behavior therapies” like ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), it focuses on inner experience as well as overt, concrete behavioral change. It is adaptable for same sex as well as different sex couples as well as couples from diverse cultural backgrounds.  Several clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of IBCT. It has been adopted by the United States Department of Veteran's Affairs as one of their empirically supported treatments for couples; extensive efforts to train VA therapists in IBCT have continued since 2010, with positive results. IBCT has also been adapted into an online program, www.OurRelationship.com by Brian Doss and Andrew Christensen; a recent clinical trial showed the effectiveness of that program. Currently, a nationwide study is evaluating the impact of this treatment for low income families in the United States.  In this webinar, Christensen will provide an introduction to IBCT. 

Abstract:

Military veterans and service members currently serving are seeking community mental health in greater numbers than ever before. Yet, many community providers lack awareness and understanding of military culture, and may not feel competent to adequately assess their problems and needs. This webinar provides a basic overview of military culture, to include examination of its explicit and implicit elements, how to interact with military veterans and service members, as well as a review of key assessment areas, techniques, and strategies. 

Abstract:

Rumination has been identified as a core process in the maintenance and onset of depression (Nolen-Hoeksema, 1991; 2000) and as a possible transdiagnostic mechanism contributing to co-morbidity (Harvey et al., 2004; Nolen-Hoeksema & Watkins, 2011). Furthermore, rumination seems to be a difficult-to-treat symptom, which is associated with poorer outcomes for psychological therapy. This webinar will illustrate how the CBT approach can be modified to reduce rumination in chronic, recurrent and residual depression and co-morbid anxiety, using new approaches derived from clinical experience and experimental research. A programme of research by Dr Watkins has suggested that the thinking style adopted during rumination can determine whether it has helpful or unhelpful consequences on social problem solving (Watkins & Moulds, 2005) and emotional processing (Watkins, 2004, 2008). This experimental work has inspired a novel approach to treating depression, called Rumination-focused CBT, which focuses on changing the process of thinking, rather than simply changing the content of thinking, in order to be more effective in successfully reducing rumination and treating depression (Watkins, 2016). There is now empirical backing for the efficacy of this approach for difficult-to-treat patients in terms of a randomised controlled trial funded by NARSAD (Watkins et al., 2011; Watkins, 2015). Moreover, a recent trial of group RFCBT has found that it outperformed standard group CBT for outpatient depression (Hvennegard et al., 2019). 

Abstract:

In 2017, over 47,000 people died of opioid overdose, continuing the more than 2-decade trend of unabated escalation of opioid-related fatalities. In addition, over 2 million people suffer from opioid use disorder, with many more misusing heroin or prescription opioid analgesics. The scope of this problem requires response from the entire healthcare system, including mental health clinicians. The goal of this webinar is to provide an overview of effective treatment for opioid use disorder as well as practical guidance on preventing and detecting opioid misuse and making appropriate referrals. Topics reviewed will include a description of evidence-based treatments for opioid use disorder, assessment and identification of opioid misuse and opioid use disorder, resources for referral, and the role of behavior therapy in the treatment of opioid use disorder. 

Abstract:

In today’s heated political climate, unauthorized immigrants living in the United States are increasingly the focus for capture and deportation. Congress, in establishing the immigration laws of this nation, has provided for a number of exceptions to deportation when the foreign national is in the country without legal status. Three of these exceptions include when the foreign national: suffers spousal abuse at the hands of a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident (Violence Against Women Act); faces immediate danger or death (political asylum); or, if a qualified family member would suffer extreme hardship as a result of the removal of the foreign national. Psychologists can play a significant role in these cases by conducting assessments and providing evaluations and expert testimony. This introductory workshop will give a brief review of the immigration laws and the professional role(s) of a psychologist in an immigration case. This cursory introduction to this area will, hopefully, inspire you to learn more about how you can participate in this legal and ethical process, and to include work as a “forensic psychologist” in your professional toolbox.

Abstract:

The vast majority of CBT clinicians receive no training in how to broach spiritual matters with patients, and many never inquire about this domain at all (Rosmarin, Green, Pirutinsky & McKay, 2013). These limitations are significant considering that more than nine in ten Americans believe in God (Gallup Poll, 2011) and the statistical majority of psychotherapy patients wish to discuss spirituality in treatment (Rose, Westefeld, & Ansley, 2001). Based on current research this workshop will present an easy-to-understand framework for CBT clinicians to conceptualize the relevance of spirituality/religion to a variety of mental health concerns. Attendees will also learn how to implement a brief CBT-based assessment of spirituality/religion in clinical practice.

Abstract:

Perhaps the most critical problem facing our discipline today is the lack of understanding of why some individuals do not benefit fully from treatment. Indeed, we have no reliable predictors of treatment outcome for people presenting for psychological treatment. This accords with evidence from recent meta-analyses indicating that approximately half of patients in treatment studies do not achieve clinical remission. Neuroscience offers a set of tools that may help solve this problem. The goal of this webinar is to describe specific ways that integrating neuroscience in our work as researchers and clinicians may improve clinical care and enhance the efficacy of CBT. Specific topics that will be addressed include: the promises and challenges of neuroprediction, role of neurocognitive interventions in the context of CBT, and enhancement of neuroscience literacy in clinical psychology training programs. 

Abstract:

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a prevalent and debilitating disorder. Although effective treatments for PTSD have been identified, there are barriers to both delivering and receiving these treatments. From the patient perspective, the treatments are time consuming (e.g., number of sessions and between session assignments), which accounts for high dropout rates (i.e., 36%). From the provider perspective, the treatments involve substantial training to be able to effectively deliver the intervention and the time required to prepare for treatment sessions serves as an additional barrier (Finley et al., 2015).  Written Exposure Therapy (WET) represents an alternative, evidence-based PTSD treatment approach that is efficient and associated with low treatment dropout rates (e.g., less than 10%). Moreover, WET has been found to be non-inferior relative to the more time intensive Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), with significantly lower dropout rates relative to CPT. This webinar describes the development of WET, efficacy findings support its use, and provides recommendations for the types of patients for whom WET might be most appropriate.

Abstract:

Exposure therapy has existed for nearly 100 years. Exposure has a robust body of evidence to demonstrate its use for anxiety disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Exposure is not only a highly effective treatment; research has shown that it is well tolerated and has lasting results. Despite this, exposure treatment may be difficult to obtain. Therapists rarely use exposure therapy. Many cite fear of using exposure due to lack of training to properly administer the treatment. Additionally, myths about exposure therapy have endured. This training will provide psychologists with the tools that they need to begin using exposure in their practice.

This training will begin by addressing unhelpful myths about exposure to help reduce therapist fears. Participants will learn about emotional processing theory and inhibitory learning theory and how these apply to real world clinical settings. Exposure will be demonstrated through a series of videos and instruction.

Participants will also learn to provide a rationale for exposure that is understandable to clients. Methods for creating exposures will be demonstrated. Participants will also learn how to conduct exposures during therapy sessions and assign home practice. Avoidance and safety behaviors that maintain and worsen symptoms will also be discussed.

Common errors made by therapists who are new to using exposure, such as delaying or avoiding treatment for fear of client distress will also be discussed. Finally, goals for therapy and maintenance of improvement will also be reviewed.

Abstract: Most people in need of behavioral health interventions locally, nationally, and globally, do not have access to evidence-based interventions because of fear of stigma, financial or time cost, unavailability of trained providers, or unavailability of providers with appropriate language or cultural expertise.  Digital interventions (web-based interventions, mobile apps, wearable sensors, and other technological advances) have been tested in randomized controlled trials and found to be effective for a number of health and mental health conditions. Most of these interventions are based on cognitive-behavioral approaches found effective in face-to-face modalities.  This webinar will present an overview of digital interventions that have been found effective for several common health conditions, such as depression, smoking, and eating disorders. The webinar will describe the concept of Digital Apothecaries (online repositories of evidence-based digital interventions) and Massive Open Online Interventions (MOOIs, similar to Massive Open Online Courses, or MOOCs), and the important differences between consumable and non-consumable interventions.  

Abstract:

As restrictions to physical distancing begin to lift in the coming months, we are all facing an unprecedented situation: on the one hand, we will be “going back to normal,” but, on the other one, much has changed over the past few months, so we will actually living in a “new normal.” This juxtaposition of familiar and new can be the source of much anxiety and distress, but it can also represent an opportunity to redefine ourselves and grow. As therapists, we have a unique opportunity to help our clients not only cope with these changes, but also thrive in the face of this new life we’re about to start. In this webinar, I will discuss an emotion-focused CBT approach for helping clients manage surges in anxiety (e.g., worries about resuming in-person interactions, heightened fears of contamination, agoraphobic concerns, existential anxiety, hopelessness) and adopt a values-based approach to re-envision their lives (e.g., career, relationships, health). I will review a transdiagnostic approach, since clients might experience concerns that are not necessarily aligned with their current diagnosis (e.g., someone with social anxiety might become preoccupied with contamination). It will be highly interactive (so come prepared with questions!) and we’ll also tackle self-care as therapists.

Abstract:

For Black youth and adults, prolonged exposure to racial discrimination has resulted in debilitating psychological, behavioral, and health outcomes. To help their children prepare for and prevent the deleterious consequences of discrimination, many Black parents utilize racial socialization, or communication about racialized experiences. And, while racial socialization strategies correspond with several CBT strategies widely used by clinicians, there is a critical gap between what Black families do to mitigate discriminatory distress and what clinicians and providers offer Black youth. As such, training clinicians to more effectively utilize racial socialization processes and develop such skills to help Black youth and parents heal from the effects of past, current, and future racial trauma is important. Greater racial socialization competency is proposed as achievable through intentional and mindful practice, thus, this symposium will explore theories and practices important in the healing processes of racial trauma for Black families, clinicians, and researchers alike, especially in times of exceptional stress (e.g., COVID-19).

Abstract

Drawing on findings from evidence-based programs of CBT supervision, this presentation will highlight the essential contents and processes of CBT supervision. The following sub-topics will be described: (1) The supervisory relationship, (2) the chief responsibilities and teaching methods of a CBT supervisor, (3) promoting ethical behavior and cross-cultural sensitivity in supervisees, (4) helping supervisees to conceptualize cases to assist in their use of techniques, and (5) providing feedback and formal evaluations in a timely, constructive manner. Multi-modal aspects of the methods of supervision will be highlighted, including the use of readings, audio-visual recordings, role-modeling, and role-playing. This webinar is designed for early career professionals who anticipate or have recently commenced providing CBT supervision, as well as more experienced CBT supervisors looking for a refresher course.

Abstract

During 2020, the twin pandemics of COVID 19 and social unrest exposed significant socioeconomic and racial/ethnic disparities within the United States. Unfortunately, psychotherapy has often reflected these disparities. If psychotherapy is to remain meaningful and credible it needs to be inclusive of the needs and characteristics of all, not just of a privileged few. Cultural Psychotherapy addresses this issue by underscoring how our interventions/relationships and who we are is embedded within socio-economic cultural contexts that confine our relationships and meanings. In this presentation Cultural Psychotherapy’s integrative and systematic model is underscored describing its specific applications. The three treatment phases are depicted, highlighting how they are used to address patients’ symptoms and to empower them to transform unjust socioeconomic contexts.

Abstract:

Recent widely publicized incidents of police brutality targeting Black people have helped to expose the depth and breadth of racism in our society. As a result, considerable attention has been placed across our academic institutions and organizations in the past few months on providing guidance and facilitating dialogue around the impacts of racism on clinical practice, teaching curricula, research pursuits, and professional/hiring patterns within our field. However, it is crucial we recognize that the occurrence of racism within our society, and our field, has been ever-present for Black and brown individuals for decades preceding the more recent media attention on these issues. Further, there is growing recognition that simply not being overtly racist is neither acceptable nor sufficient to achieve equity, but many people are not aware of the many opportunities they have to actively promote equity and inclusion in their work as mental health professionals. Thus, this panel will discuss ways that attendees can be actively anti-racist across a range of roles: as clinicians, educators, administrators, and researchers. This panel consists of four experts in the field with a range of expertise across these professional domains, who will share specific examples, strategies, and tools to pursue an actively anti-racist agenda in our professional pursuits. This panel is relevant to everyone in the field of mental health, regardless of training level, area of focus, and professional roles. It provides an important dialogue to ensure that efforts to move the needle in terms of inclusion and equity fall on every single one of us in the field, instead of just a few.

Abstract:

Keniston (1978) asserted that Black youth are “the most endangered children in our society.” Indeed, Black children and teens are exposed to myriad risks, particularly those that emanate from the legacy of racism in this country. Yet, despite historical deficit-oriented narratives concerning them, Black youth—and their families—have continued to demonstrate positive psychosocial outcomes. Moreover, assisting diverse family structures in cogently providing racial socialization may optimize the historical psychosocial protection of this racially-relevant factor. In this presentation, conceptual and empirical work on mechanisms undergirding the salutary benefit of familial racial socialization will be discussed. Specifically, mixed-methods (i.e., survey, observation, interview) research will be presented that addresses how diverse families of Black youth navigate teaching their children about race.  This presentation will conclude with a discussion of ongoing and future research, including how both experimental and prospective studies can serve to promote the resiliency of Black youth.

Abstract:

What are cultural adaptations? How do we culturally adapt psychotherapy in a clinically sound and evidence-based manner? This workshop discusses how culture influences mental health processes and identifies areas for cultural adaptation when working with Asian Americans. Top-down and bottom-up frameworks created to culturally modify therapy will be provided. In addition, I will present concrete examples from a culturally adapted treatment manual that I developed and tested in a randomized controlled trial with depressed Chinese Americans. Finally, I will discuss the rising tide of xenophobia and violence towards Asian Americans amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, and provide recommendations for how to address these issues in treatment. The goal of this workshop is to gain both breadth and depth of understanding, as well develop practical clinical tools for use with diverse populations.

Abstract:

The negative consequences of interpersonal trauma (e.g., physical abuse) take a disproportionate toll on Black youth due to the compounding stress of experiencing unique race related stressors both directly (e.g., microaggressions) and vicariously (e.g., witnessing police brutality in the media). Community based mental health services exist to provide child and family treatment for trauma to help prevent and treat negative sequelae. However, these services are often underutilized as they do not systematically consider racial stress and trauma in their intakes, assessment, or treatments. To increase their utility in responding to and treating trauma, cognitive-behavioral treatments and services should address cultural factors (e.g., system mistrust) that are likely to influence Black families' willingness to engage in treatment. In addition, Black youth rely on particular assets and strengths in their families and communities to reduce negative mental and behavioral health outcomes from interpersonal and race-related stressors. Racial socialization is the protective process of transmitting cultural behaviors, attitudes, and values to prepare youth to cope with racial stressors, and is associated with positive outcomes including increased resilience, coping abilities, and decreased problem behaviors and anxiety in Black youth. This webinar will provide an overview of the impact of interpersonal and racial stress and trauma on mental health and behavioral outcomes for Black youth. This webinar will also present findings from research on organizational barriers and facilitators to service utilization and engagement for ethnic minority caregivers referred for treatment at a nationally accredited community mental health center for children.

Abstract:

Black children and adolescents live in a society wherein anti-Black racism is a common experience. Schools systems are often platforms for these social injustices, where Black children experience disproportionately punitive discipline, microaggressions, explicit racism, and police brutality while simultaneously attempting to learn. Racial stress and trauma (RST) is a byproduct of racism when racism disrupts psychological, emotional and physical well-being. This presentation will explore Black youth’s experiences with racism and racial stress and trauma in schools and intervention research conducted on school-based trauma interventions. Additionally, this presentation provides future directions for research and reveals the need for further research on school-based assessment and interventions for Black youth’s racial stress and trauma. Strategies for building resilience among this population and practice recommendations based on empirical evidence will also be discussed.  

Abstract:

The racially stressful events of the past decade, punctuated by the current “double pandemic” of COVID-19 and racially-implicated deaths of Black individuals, have heightened the call for anti-racism in various spheres of influence, including in clinical work. Principle-driven strategies for treatment, often found in “Third Wave” adaptations to cognitive and behavioral treatment, have the potential to imbue principles of anti-racism more thoroughly into treatment while maintaining the integrity of evidence-based treatment protocols. This presentation will discuss the ethical responsibility of practitioners to engage in anti-racist work, review literature of existing third-wave interventions (i.e. DBT, ACT) that use principle-driven anti-racist strategies to present culturally humble care, and focus participants on their own committed action to anti-racism in their own practice. 

Abstract:

Human trafficking (HT) is a violation of human rights and a significant global health problem that may span various ages, genders, ethnic groups, socioeconomic groups and exploitation experiences (Chisolm-Straker & Stoklosa, 2017; Kiss et al., 2015; Shandro et al., 2016). Due to the invisible nature of trafficking, the lack of a central database to track cases, the low rate of disclosure, and the under-recognition and criminalization by authorities, the true prevalence of HT across the globe is unknown (Stransky & Finkelhor, 2012). Sexual trauma and psychological aggression are core experiences of women who are victims of sex trafficking (Menon et al., 2020). Yet many barriers to help-seeking may exist for this population of trauma survivors. Common psychological difficulties associated with human trafficking include depression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance abuse disorders, as well as impairment in functioning (Ghafoori & Taylor, 2017; Menon et al., 2020). This impact reveals the fundamental role that mental health services play in the urgent and long-term response to the needs of victims (Kiss et al., 2015).

Abstract:

Suicide is the second leading cause of death among 15-24 year-olds in the United States. Adolescence, when suicidal ideation and behaviors often begin, offers an important window to understand the causes and prevent the progression of suicide phenomena, given it is a period of emerging and increasing risk and resilience. This presentation will review the recent developments in suicide risk assessment and management strategies in youth suicide prevention. We will review frequently utilized measures of youth suicide risk, discussing implications for use in clinical practice and research settings. Additionally, we will review brief intervention strategies for the immediate management of suicide risk in both clinical and research settings. We will conclude with practical guidance for the development of youth suicide risk and management strategies for various settings.