5 CE CONTACT HOURS: approved by NY State Board of Psychology, Social Work and Mental Health Counselors;

The purpose of this course is to provide an orientation & framework for clinicians who are interested in finding a cohesive way to integrate Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) and Exposure Therapy into their practice with clients who have experienced trauma. Additionally, it provides as a “refresher” for those who are already well versed in trauma therapy, as well as providing clients loved ones and collaborating clinician.

Course Description:

Exposure to traumatic life events (such as: global pandemic, child abuse, domestic violence, natural disasters, war, etc.) can lead to the development of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). When left untreated, PTSD sufferers experience life-interfering symptoms and consequences such as severe depression, isolation, substance abuse and significant impulse control and anger problems. CBT and Exposure Therapy have been proven to improve symptoms of PTSD, Depression and Anxiety in children and adolescents. The use of CBT & Exposure Therapy is effective in helping clients remember traumatic experience without becoming overwhelmed by painful, intrusive and disruptive symptoms.

This Workshop outlines the core principles of Cognitive Behavioral & Exposure Therapy (CBT). Participants will be provided with time and support to practice elements of each component including gradual exposure, assessment, psychoeducation, relaxation, emotional regulation, and challenging cognitive distortions. The Presenter will also engage with participants around how to frame these interventions when working with traumatized clients.

Teaching Methods:

·        This course is geared toward adult learners.

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It will be taught with a combination of methods. Didactic lecture and the use of PowerPoint.Interactive activities such as role-play and break-out rooms will allow participants to practice the model’s skills and technique and learn strategies that prepare them for crisis of the week challenges and the trauma symptom of avoidance.

Discussion of how to apply the CBT & Exposure to specific cases, as well as case examples will occur throughout.

Learning Objectives: 

Participants will be able to:

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• Explain to clients & their caregivers the goals of CBT & Exposure Therapy and their effectiveness in treating PTSP.
•         Identify & assess how the specific components of CBT & Exposure Therapy address trauma symptoms and PTSD.
•      Instruction on how to implement gradual exposure within the context of treatment so as to decrease trauma symptoms in clients.
•       Practice trauma types, relaxation skills and emotional regulation/affect management tools through role plays.

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Participants will understand how to:

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• Recognize cognitive distortions within the trauma narrative.  
• Assess when & how to challenge cognitive distortions and when not to do so.
• Prepare client to assess and reduce future at risk situations, as well as to be prepared for future trauma triggers.
• Identify & Intervene in both client & self/clinician avoidance through Exposure Therapy.

Date: Tuesday January 9th
10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Tuition: $175

Zoom - Online