Presenters: Cynthia Rogers and Wilson Hurley| crogers.dmin.lcsw@gmail.com | www.peacecounselingandwellnessprograms.com
Category: 2
CE Hours: 1.5
Workshop Description: Today most therapeutic approaches in mental health reference the mind-body connection, but often “spirit” still is omitted. When mind-body-spirit integration is referenced, there may not be a clear understanding about how the spiritual component can be addressed in a meaningful way in the initial assessment or diagnosis and then integrated into the treatment plan. There may be confusion about the many spiritualities within Eastern and Western approaches and whether there is a divide between what is secular and spiritual. And there is the elusive question too of how “spirit” is part of the ongoing client-therapist relationship.
The workshop will offer an overview of the evolution of spirituality into mental health practice as grounding for discussion of current diagnostic issues and treatment trends related to the incorporation of spirituality more fully into the mind-body-spirit approach. The workshop will be didactic, interactive, and experiential so participants can clarify important background information and be exposed to ways of experiencing spirituality in the relationship, approach spiritual assessments with clients, distinguish delusional thought from healthy spirituality, and offer spiritually integrated treatment that is healing and promotes emotional well-being. Mindfulness approaches will be emphasized as important grounding for both therapists and clients throughout the assessment and treatment process.
The intent of this workshop is to assist participants in deepening the needed and effective ways of being in relationship with clients and more clearly integrating the spiritual dimension into mental health practice. The presenters have backgrounds in spirituality from extensive studies, participation, and leadership in both the Buddhist and Christian religious traditions and years of clinical experience in the mental health field.
Target audience: This workshop is appropriate for clinicians at all levels to deepen their understanding and skills in integrating spirituality into mental health practice. Students are welcome.
Workshop Objectives:
- To learn about the evolution of spirituality in mental health practice.
- To experience spirituality in ways to deepen relationships and promote wellness.
- To review DSM-5 guidelines related to religious considerations and diagnosis.
- To explore integrating spirituality in treatment approaches.
- To learn more about and experience mindfulness approaches.
Specific Agenda:
12:00 -12:10 Gathering with Meditative Music, Sign-in
12:10- 12:35 Introduction to Topic and Presenters
12:35 – 12:45 The Evolving Definitions of Spirituality
12:45- 1:00 The DSM, Religion, & Healthy Spirituality
1:00 – 1:10 Integrating Spirituality into Treatment Approaches
1:10 – 1:15 Mindfulness as Process & Treatment
1:15 – 1:30 Closing Questions & Discussion
Cynthia Rogers has been licensed as a clinical social worker for almost 25 years and has completed graduate seminary degrees (Masters in Pastoral Studies and Doctor of Ministry, both with spirituality specializations). She recently opened a new private practice, Peace Counseling and Wellness Programs, in Herndon, VA. She also serves as an adjunct instructor at Virginia Theological Seminary for their Doctor of Ministry summer residencies.
Wilson Hurley has been a licensed social worker for 35 years with 23 years in clinical practice and 12 years in the public schools. As an avocation, he has studied and practiced Tibetan Buddhism for close to 40 years and has helped translate several Tibetan texts into English, including The Water and Wood Shastras (published by Karuna Publications, 2012). In addition, Wilson teaches Direct Practice as an Adjunct Professor at George Mason University and is working on a system to train helping professionals in compassion development.
