WC25 Program_LR 8

TRACK WORKSHOPS

Summary Despite advancements in mental health interventions, the pop ulation-adjusted suicide rate in the United States has risen by approximately 35% between 1998 and 2021, remaining alarm ingly high. This workshop equips psychologists, licensed mental health professionals, medical personnel, and ministry leaders with evidence-based tools to address suicide prevention while integrating a faith-based perspective. Participants will explore psychiatric best practices for suicide risk assessment, including the use of validated tools like the Columbia Suicide Severity Rat ing Scale (C-SSRS) and the role of psychiatric medications, such as lithium, in mitigating suicidal ideation and behavior. The ses sion also examines the limitations of secular approaches and introduces a faith-based framework emphasizing the inherent dignity of life, the value of relationships and community, and the Church’s role in fostering hope. Attendees will leave with practical strategies to address spiritual, relational, and systemic factors contributing to “deaths of despair,” supporting Christian clients with both clinical expertise and biblical insight. Learning Objectives 1. Evaluate empirical evidence behind common suicide risk screening practices, including C-SSRS. 2. Outline the current evidence surrounding psychiatric medication use, particularly lithium, in reducing suicidal ideation and behavior.

3. Identify and assess three theological affirmations founda tional to a faith-based approach to suicide prevention. 217. Objects of Desire: The Interpersonal Neurobiologi cal Implications of Mimesis in the Integration of the Mind in Mental Healthcare 1.25 credit hours Continuing Education Accreditations applicable to this workshop: APA, ASWB, NBCC, NAADAC, IBCC, Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Mental Health Counseling Continuing Medical Education Accreditations applicable to this workshop: AMA PRA Category 1 Credit, AOA Category 2A credits, Georgia Nurses Association, AAFP Level: Intermediate Curt Thompson, M.D. The Center for Being Known

Summary A fundamental element in assessing a patient’s distress and di agnosis is the difference between a patient’s anticipated expec tations and actual lived experience. Expectations further emerge as an expression of one’s desires. Psychologists, licensed mental health professionals, and medical professionals will become

2025 AACC UNITED WORLD CONFERENCE

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