Lesson – Intro to Neurocounseling: Brain-Based Tools to Accelerate Therapy Outcomes
By the time we leave graduate school, our understanding of the science of the therapy process and the brain science of mental illness is usually basic at best. Though continuing education courses on the neuroscience of mental health are available, the prospect of using these concepts as a part of the counseling process can be scary! But, with the right training and preparation, we can use the neuroscience of mental health both in the process and content of counseling in a way that adds therapeutic value.
Neurocounseling can be described as the adaptation of the principles of neuroscience into the process of counseling to help clients better understand the role of their brain and physiology in their mental health. Neurocounseling is built around teaching a client neuroscience principles and how this knowledge can help them gain insight into their body, brain, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Such knowledge can assist a client in gaining clarity about their physical and mental health processes and problems. A foundational understanding of using neuroscience as an element of the therapeutic exchange is shown to boost long-term therapy outcomes.
Designed for professionals working in human service, mental health, and substance use treatment settings, this training will examine the topic of neurocounseling and its implications for interviewing, screening, and intervention. Related topics discussed during the course of this training will include ADHD, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), attachment theory, autism, executive function, gut-brain health axis, inflammation, mindfulness, neuroadaptation, neurocriminology, neurogenesis, neuroplasticity, neurohormones, neuromodulation, neurotransmitters, psychoeducation, self-regulation, and toxic stress to name a few. Empirically based research findings and case study examples will be highlighted throughout this training.
Objectives:
This training will provide participants clinical knowledge and tools to:
a). Define neurocounseling and other related concepts, and acquire an understanding of the existing empirical research on neurocounseling.
b). Learn and understand the neurobiopsychosocialphysiological underpinnings of human behavior, functioning, and development.
c). Learn and discuss the risk factors associated with neurocognitive dysregulation and dysfunction.
d). Learn the benefits of neurocounseling (and related psychoeducation), how it can improve client outcomes, and why neurocounseling approaches should be incorporated into health and wellness programs.
e). Learn and describe strategies that can promote positive brain health, along with appropriate screening and intervention options through a neurocounseling lens.
Target Audience:
Mental health counselors, psychologists, social workers, drug and alcohol counselors, marriage and family therapists, telehealth treatment professionals, and other clinical mental health professionals.
Instructional Level: Intermediate
Instructor(s): Jerrod Brown, PhD, MA, MS, MS, MS
Material Author(s): Jerrod Brown, PhD, MA, MS, MS, MS
For additional information about this course, the instructors, or the material authors, please contact Content Assistance at content@onlinececredits.com.