Using Behavioral Activation Treatment to Treat Perinatal Mood Disorders

This webinar describes the structure and techniques of an effective behavioral intervention for perinatal depression.

The presentation is based on current research findings on the biological and psychological changes that are experienced in pregnancy and postpartum and their links with anxiety and depression. Specific treatment techniques are described with a focus on gender-sensitive psychotherapy treatment for effectively addressing depression across the perinatal phase.

Supported by earlier studies on depression, Behavioral Activation (BA) treatment has been shown to be an effective treatment option for perinatal depression. The Behavioral Activation model suggests that depression is experienced in a measurable manner when pregnant and postpartum women face aversive situations, lose or disrupt their routines, and have less opportunity to regenerate positive activities.

This webinar shows clinicians how to teach their patients how to override avoidance and misery through an increase experiences and sources that positively reinforce non-depressed behavior; replace disrupted routines with routines of enjoyment and mastery; and acquire skills to reduce avoidance.

Learning Objectives:
1.  Describe the Behavioral Activation model of illness and treatment.
2.  Summarize common clinical challenges in perinatal depression;
3.  Describe specific treatment techniques;
4.  Outline how to measure mechanisms of productive therapeutic change;
5.  Guide you on next steps towards achieving competency and adherence in BA.

At the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Generate a a brand identity for your clinical practice and understand how to use on-line profiles to articulate this identity
• Have the tools to create and manage more effective social media profiles
• Determine which social media channels will be most effective for your practice, and evaluate how that may change over time

Presentation Level: Intermediate

This webinar is no longer eligible for CE credit.

This webinar is made possible through the generous support of the Hope and Grace Grant that ADAA received in late last year. Learn more about the grant here.

Read Dr. Gollan's Blog Post Treating Perinatal Mood Disorders Using Behavioral Activation Psychotherapy