ACT for depression and anxiety disorders with Dr Russ Harris

This is an in-person workshop, taking place in central London Every day, around the globe, depression and anxiety shatter the lives of millionsBut you have the power to make a difference …Do you want to help your clients find rapid relief from suffering? And go on to build richer, fuller lives?If so, this 2-day advanced level workshop is for you. You’ll go deeper into the ACT model, take your skills to the next level, and learn specific methods for depression and anxiety disorders.You’ll learn about common stumbling blocks and sticking points, and how to quickly get around them.And you’ll discover a wealth of practical tools and strategies to effectively target depression (major depressive disorder and dysthymia) and the full range of anxiety disorders (from OCD & phobias to social anxiety & panic disorder). The workshop will include live demonstrations, videos of therapy sessions, and a wide range of experiential exercises.Please note: this is an intermediate level workshop and we assume registrants have attended some form of introductory level training or are familiar with the ACT model by doing some background reading. We have a free on-demand introduction to ACT workshop available to help you preparePlease contact us if you are unsure. What you will learnDay 1 ACT for depressionSection 1Common practitioner problemsThe ACT conceptualisation of depression & anxiety disordersThe vicious cycle beneath the most sever presentationsACT’s non-pathologising diagnostic systemACT case formulationProblems with establishing therapy goalsSection 2Repetitive negative thinking (RNT) – ruminating, worrying, obsessingBrief interventions for RNTOvercoming helplessness about RNT: “I can’t help it!”Overcoming ambivalence about RNT: “But it helps me!”Dealing with dilemmas & indecisivenessScaffolding new skillsThe “7 Rs” – for overcoming procrastination/inertia, and maintaining new behaviourSection 3Motivation issues => getting to values early, and defusing from hopelessnessUndermining experiential avoidance50 shades of acceptanceEmotion regulation in ACTBeing creative: Inventing your own ‘non-traditional’ mindfulness exercisesDay 2 ACT for anxiety disordersSection 1Anatomy of a panic attackUsing ACT to overcome panic attacksThe ACT model of exposure (and how it differs from CBT)Values-guided exposure: step by stepCreating an exposure hierarchy“Physicalising” emotionsSelf-compassionHow to stop “problem-hopping”Responding effectively when clients repeatedly answer, “I don’t know”Section 2What to do when getting to values is hardOvercoming task inertia & procrastinationWorking with fatigue: pacing and restingOther strategies for motivationWorking with intrusive thoughtsValues-based problem-solvingValues-based contingency-planningSection 3Defusion from rigid rulesOvercoming resistanceWorking with mandated/coerced clientsWhat to do when “life is meaninglessness”Working with suicidalitySafety plans & relapse preventionWho would benefit from this workshop?Meant for practitioners who have already had basic introductory training in ACT, we recommend this workshop for all mental health professionals including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, nurse practitioners, coaches, therapists, counsellors, GPs, youth workers, and OTs.Feedback from previous workshops is always very positive:“Very well organised, enjoyable, well thought about with a good mixture of theory, slides and practical demonstrations and videos. Russ is a fantastic speaker, and it was a privilege to join this workshop and hear/learn from the “master” himself. Thank you!”“So well put together. Russ is just a fantastic facilitator for ACT processes. Instils confidence in clinical approach and self-compassion as a therapist, and a human being!” “Love Russ’s energy and enthusiasm.”CateringLight refreshments will be provided for morning and afternoon tea. Lunch is not included in the registration fee but you will have the option to purchase lunch at one of the many catering outlets outside of the venue.