Most of us feel reasonably intact and continuous, despite the constant commotion in our lives, our relationships, and our cells. But what exactly is a "Self?" In this talk I'll explore how the brain becomes the mind, and how it builds a sense of self (even a secret society of selves), to manage the everchanging mental fantasia in which we spend our days.
What can mental health professionals do to enhance their performance? Available evidence makes clear that attending a typical continuing education workshop, specializing in the treatment of a particular problem, or learning a new treatment model does little to improve effectiveness. In fact, studies to date indicate clinical effectiveness actually declines with time and experience in the field. The key to improved performance is engaging in deliberate practice. At this workshop, the latest research on deliberate practice will be translated into concrete steps all clinicians can immediately apply in their efforts to achieve better results.
This presentation will discuss ways to bolster resilience across the full life span from high-risk children youth adults and the elderly. It will examine the neurobiological and psycho -social changes that accompany engaging in resilience-engendering behaviors.
"In the United States, the omnipresence of racial bias and bigotry has led many to question the reasons for their persistence in light of widespread public condemnation. Social scientists have proposed a number of reasons for people’s failure to act: (a) the invisibility of modern forms of bias, (b) trivializing an incident as innocuous, (c) diffusion of responsibility, (d) fear of repercussions or retaliation, and (e) the paralysis of not knowing what to do. This presentation is aimed at addressing the last reason by providing participants with a repertoire of anti-bias strategies and tactics to overcome the expressions of microaggressions.
Unlike surgeons, psychotherapists usually do not get better with years of practice. Why is that? What skills are most important to develop in clinical training programs, and does it actually happen? Should we be focusing on evidence-based treatment techniques, interpersonal therapeutic skills, cultural competence, deliberate practice, scientific skepticism, fostering clients' strengths and resilience? Three seasoned clinical trainers reflect on the joys, challenges, and outcomes of preparing future psychotherapists.
"At the heart of psychotherapy is the idea that listening to someone is an inherently healing act. Can an understanding of the grammar of music help us better understand the grammar of how therapists can listen better and even advance therapeutic communication?
Join NPR and PBS commentator Rob Kapilow a conductor/composer/author for a unique interactive exploration inside the language of music to see how it can help us learn to listen and communicate. Conducted by Kapilow musicians will play the final two movements of Haydn’s string quartet op 76/5.
Learn to listen like Haydn. Learn the evocative grammar that underlies music.
"Although therapists certainly need a clear clinical road map informing their work with clients, a rigid reliance on and allegiance to any particular theoretical model ignores what research tells us about what really matters most in therapy. More, being overly focused on implementing clinical protocols prevents us from being truly present with our clients -- the place where real therapeutic magic resides.
Join two therapists as they trace the evolution of their thinking from being team members who helped develop the Solution Focused Brief Therapy model through today. Discover what they’ve learned about the real catalyst for change in therapy."
This talk identifies the seven core dimensions of an effective, sustainable therapy change: 1. a state of positive well being, 2. a positive resonant goal, 3. resources, 4. welcoming obstacles, 5. fluid "ideas of achievement", 6. commitment to practical action, 7. commitment to daily practices. The practical ways to develop and integrate these complementary dimensions will be highlighted.
Sometimes regarded as "resistance," ambivalence is a normal human reaction to potential change and a fundamental dynamic in helping relationships whereby well-intended efforts can backfire. In practice there is an important conscious choice between neutrality and direction, leading to different clinical strategies. Dr. Miller will describe different responses to client ambivalence, and their consequences.