Similar to the previous conferences, the 2023 conference will include several two-day training workshops in evidence-based psychotherapies (EBPs) as pre-meeting institutes (PMIs) offered during the two days immediately preceding the conference. Topics for these PMIs will include: Motivational Interviewing Skills, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and CBT for Chronic Pain.
Space is limited, and registration fills relatively quickly.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
This workshop will be highly experiential with a focus on helping participants practice and build skills that they can readily integrate into their work with military clients. It’s designed to give participants a strong foundation in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) theory and practice. The workshop is ideal for beginning practitioners new to the model as well as those already practicing ACT at an intermediate level who want to broaden their repertoire.
Over the course of two days, we will work with participants to assess psychological problems using the Psychological Flexibility model, learn and practice skills relevant to each of the 6 core psychological flexibility processes, use the ACT skills to help clients differentiate between ineffective and meaningful actions, and to identify and address key indicators of psychological inflexibility. In addition, the training will explore the ways in which language and metaphor influence behavior and can be used in therapy to help change behavior. We will use experiential exercises, small group work and dyad work to encourage participants to practice and enhance new skills.
Trainers: Dr. Andrew Santanello & Dr. Erin Frick
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Chronic Pain (CBT-CP)
This intensive two-day module provides training in the assessment, management and cognitive-behavioral treatment of chronic pain. The module lays the foundation for working with military connected individuals suffering from chronic pain by reviewing the rates and mechanisms of chronic pain in civilian and military populations, including the role of military culture. Furthermore, theories of chronic pain will be introduced with a focus on biological, psychological and social factors impacting chronic pain. Participants will develop case conceptualization skills grounded by the clinical interview and empirically based assessment tools. Participants will learn and have the opportunity to practice key intervention strategies. In addition to learning CBT skills/techniques for working with chronic pain patients, participants will explore the role of motivational interviewing practices in CBT for chronic pain. The workshop also discusses common challenges to psychological service for pain management and ways to overcome those barriers. The module is designed for behavioral health providers working with Service Members, Veterans and their families who are seeking in-depth training in empirically supported treatment options they can immediately incorporate into their clinical practice. Participants are expected to actively engage in class activities and attend both days.
Trainers: Dr. Diana Dolan & Dr. Kelly Chrestman
Motivational Interviewing Skills Workshop (MI)
This intensive 2-day workshop provides skills training in Motivational Interviewing (MI), which is a collaborative conversation style for strengthening a person’s own motivation and commitment to change (Miller & Rollnick, 2013). The workshop will review the foundational constructs related to MI with an emphasis on the Spirit of MI. Participants will practice fundamental client centered counseling skills (OARS+I) across the four processes of an MI encounter (Engage, Focus, Evoke, Plan). The workshop will articulate when it is appropriate to use MI skills in a clinical encounter with a focus on health behavioral changes. Videotaped examples of MI sessions will be used to demonstrate therapist skills. Participant participation in real-plays to demonstrate MI skills and attendance at both days of the workshop are required for training completion. Participants will leave the workshop with a personalized plan to continue MI skills practice and reflective feedback.
Trainer: Dr. Abby Diehl