2024 National Program_LR

CONFERENCE TRACKS

Harold Koenig, M.D. Duke University Center for Spirituality, The ology, and Health

Approved for 1.5 CEUs for Nurses and Nurse Practitioners Level: Intermediate

Jennifer Ellers, M.A. AACC

Summary: The focus of this AACC session is on: 1) reviewing re search on faith-based counseling, cognitive functioning, and brain disease; 2) discussing the mechanisms by which devout faith-based may influence cognitive functioning and brain health; 3) suggesting behaviors, diet, and dietary supplements through which faith-based can maximize their cognitive functioning with aging and minimize the risk of brain disease; and 4) providing further resources to help attendees learn more about this topic. This workshop has both clinical and research-based relevance and utility to licensed mental health professionals, including coun selors and psychologists, as well as to other health profes sionals and clergy (particularly VA and military chaplains who must deal with persons experiencing traumatic brain injury). There will be plenty of time for participants to ask questions and interact with the presenter. 1. Outline what research has discovered about the rela tionship between religious involvement and faith-based counseling and brain health, with a focus on slowing down cognitive decline with aging and within the context of dementia 2. Describe the mechanisms by which faith-based counsel ing may influence brain health and cognitive functioning 3. Identify various activities, dietary behaviors, and supple ments that may help and reduce cognitive impairment with aging and the risk of developing brain disease 108. The Essential Role of Healthy Emotions in Growing a Healthy Congregation Approved for 1.5 IBCC CEs for Pastors, Pastoral Counselors, Teachers, and Coaches Level: Beginner Learning Objectives Participants will:

Kevin Ellers, D.Min. The Salvation Army

Summary: New research and ongoing advances in the treatment of trauma and studies of effective interventions for grief and suicidal behavior are bringing new treatment modalities at a rapid pace. However, it can be challenging for licensed mental health professionals and medical professionals to get credentialed in every advanced treatment protocol, considering both the investment of time and resources needed. One of the most encouraging trends from the literature is some key findings that impact treatment for multiple disorders. By addressing these factors in treat ment plans for those with PTSD, Complex Trauma, and Prolonged Grief Disorder, as well as those with suicidal ideation, clinicians can supplement their existing treat ment protocols with interventions that strengthen the mental, physical, and spiritual health of clients. 1. Review research outlining key factors for resilience in clients with all mental health challenges, with particular focus on grief, trauma, and suicidal ideation 2. Examine tools for assessment of lifestyle factors con tributing to resilience and how to engage clients in plans to incorporate these into treatment plans 3. Discuss methods for incorporating key resilience in terventions into existing models of treatment and how to encourage client engagement Approved for 1.5 CEs for Psychologists, Licensed Professional Counselors, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists, Licensed Clinical Social Workers, and Chemical Dependency Counselors Approved for 1.5 CMEs for Medical Doctors, Osteopathic Physi cians, and Physician Assistants Approved for 1.5 CEUs for Nurses and Nurse Practitioners Approved for 1.5 IBCC CEs for Pastors, Pastoral Counselors, Learning Objectives Participants will: 107. Effects of Faith on the Brain: Cognitive Functioning and Brain Disease

Gary Oliver, Th.M., Ph.D. The Center for Healthy Relationships John Brown University

Summary If God’s purpose for us as church leaders, pastors, pasto ral counselors, lay counselors, and coaches is to help our people “become conformed to the Image of His Son,” what might that look like? What does it mean to “grow in Christ” and become a “mature” Christian? How should sanctifica tion impact our moods, behaviors, and thought patterns?

Teachers, and Coaches Level: Intermediate

COUNSELING | COACHING | RECOVERY | MARRIAGE AND FAMILY

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