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Acceptance and Commitment Therapy with Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy: Healing through Psychological Flexibility
Get PDFIn this paper, I will explore the integration of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) with psilocybin-assisted therapy. These two standalone treatments have demonstrated research- supported efficacy for depression, anxiety, and substance use. I will discuss the theoretical and practical clinical integration of ACT and psilocybin-assisted therapy to treat depression, anxiety, and substance use, which I will argue will have greater healing effects together than either isolated treatment. Psychological flexibility, the mechanism that targets rigid thinking and promotes healing in ACT and potentially also psilocybin-assisted therapy, will be discussed. Traditional methods of treatment for depression, anxiety, and substance use have had limited success. Meanwhile, psilocybin-assisted therapy demonstrates research-supported efficacy with limited side effects and lasting treatment results. Psilocybin-assisted therapy could serve as an alternative to daily pharmaceutical use, and therefore, it is essential to further research its healing effects on a range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, and substance use. I hope that this work informs the general public, therapists, and researchers about the potential therapeutic benefits of integrating ACT and psilocybin-assisted therapy
Influence of Family Dynamics and Culture on Self-Esteem of Individuals with Depression and Anxiety
No full textThe current study examines the role culture and familial structure play in one's self perception and self-esteem, which in turn influences mental health. Self-esteem is a crucial component of one’s identity; it allows one to perceive oneself negatively or positively within
oneself and a group of people. As it is understood, self-esteem can be influenced by many factors, such as familial environment, parent-child relationships, and, in some cases, sibling relations. Negative adverse effects - neglect, abuse, poor parent-child, sibling, and family relations - play a role in lower self-esteem and mental health issues. Thus, positive parent-child relations, supportive sibling relations, and a safe and functional familial system lead to higher self-esteem and better mental health. Past research has understood how self-perception influences self-esteem, built in early childhood, and how certain experiences can affect self esteem. This research paper takes the Cognitive Behaviour Theory perspective into account to explore further and understand how various negative adverse experiences can affect one's self esteem and cause depression and anxiety in individuals within familial and cultural contexts. This paper critically analyses the methodological approach by examining ten studies in depth and
including other literature exploring the effects of adverse environments on self-esteem and mental health. The current paper also explores past studies, in which one of the significant findings was the lack of a cultural component in understanding the influences of self-esteem. It
was also found that familial and cultural expectation play a role in one’ self-esteem and mental health. Other findings regarding the applicability of the study findings in clinical settings - given the ethical and diverse conditions of individuals who approach therapy- are also discussed
MDMA-Assisted Couples Therapy: Trauma Healing and Creating Pathways to Connection
No full textThis paper explores the intricate relationship between trauma and its profound impacts on intimate relationships. Given the resurgence of psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT), particularly MDMA-assisted therapy, this capstone proposes a unique integration of MDMA into couples work. A review of the historical and current landscape of PAT is provided, emphasizing its efficacy within the realm of trauma treatment and its potential to foster relational healing for couples. By synthesizing existing literature and identifying gaps, this analysis aims to inform clients, clinicians, and researchers about the significant implications of this integrated therapeutic approach. This capstone offers recommendations for future clinical practice that encompass communication techniques, emotions focused work, and somatic based interventions for a comprehensive, integrated methodology
Efficacy of Interventions for Children Experiencing Grief
Get PDFThis literature review examines grief interventions used with children and adolescents and the efficacy of said interventions. Grief and loss are universal human experiences that every person will encounter at some point in their lives. While not all grief requires therapeutic intervention,
intervention is sometimes required. Children and adolescents are a population that may require special consideration when it comes to the therapeutic interventions used for grief. Mental health professionals need to be able to provide interventions at appropriate developmental levels,
as well as understand what supports the client already has and the cultural standards that the client subscribes to. Common themes derived from the review of literature are the importance of the setting of therapeutic intervention, domains of therapeutic change, the psychological impact of different grief situations, and the psychological impact of different grief interventions. Common interventions used with younger age groups include Cognitive Behavior Therapies, immersive therapies such as grief camps, and creative therapies. Examples of successful interventions include creative pursuits such as storytelling and art, Cognitive Behavior Therapy and immersive therapies showing significant impact
Police, RCMP, and PTSD: Integrating the Before Operational Stress (BOS) Program into Detachments
No full textFirst responders, including police and Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) are frequently exposed to potentially traumatic events. Additional stressors and risk factors for PTSD include moral injuries, moral distress, operational and organizational stressors, working alone, and the stigma of mental health and setting boundaries. Recent studies and statistical findings have found concerning numbers regarding mental health disorders among members. Furthermore, there is limited research on prevention programs and the treatment of PTSD in the police and RCMP population specifically. The BOS program was recently created, helping members receive psychoeducation, establish connections, and have greater access to mental health support. This capstone describes trauma and PTSD, followed by an exploration of police workplace experiences, job stressors, risk factors, and the prevalence of mental health disorders. Treatment options will be generally explored, followed by a description of the BOS program, including recommendations for further additions
Rewiring Invisible Wounds: The Neurobiological and Clinical Implications of Childhood Trauma: Considerations for Treatment in Counselling Psychology
No full textThis capstone reviews the neurobiological and clinical impacts of childhood trauma, focusing on how neuroscience-informed approaches inform treatment strategies within a bio-psycho-social framework. This capstone seeks to share some light on the critical interplay between neurobiology, emotions and behaviour in trauma recovery by integrating theoretical models such as the bio-psycho-social model, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and attachment theory. The literature review focus on the key brain regions affected by trauma, the stress-response systems and the clinical implications of childhood trauma. Overall, this capstone highlights the significance of neuroplasticity and culturally responsive interventions in addressing effects of childhood trauma. This capstone will also help clinicians to increase their awareness of the neurobiology of trauma to create individualized and holistic plans by promoting early interventions, preventive measures and community-based peer support programs. This work's
goal is to bridge the gap between neuroscience and therapeutic practices by inviting clinicians to reflect cultural considerations in trauma care while at the same time acknowledging the complexity of childhood trauma. By the end of this capstone the clinician will have a biopsycho-social overview of childhood trauma and considerations for treatment
A Refreshing Perspective on Walk and Talk Therapy
No full textWalk and talk therapy, is considered a novel approach to traditional counselling where therapeutic sessions are conducted while walking outdoors. This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the effectiveness and challenges of walk and talk therapy as an alternative form of counselling. The purpose is to highlight the potential of incorporating physical activity, exposure to nature to enhance the efficacy of counselling interventions in order to foster holistic well-being. Conducting therapy outdoors can provide an alternative method for individuals suffering from mood disorders as well as encouraging a strong connection with nature. Many countries have recognized the therapeutic benefits that nature can provide and have created programs and spaces for those to seek treatment. While walk and talk therapy is not a new concept, there has been an increase in outdoor counselling especially since COVID-19 pandemic. However, there are some concerns with walk and talk therapy including the risk of confidentiality and liability and therefore, many counsellors are reluctant to incorporate the method into their practice. The discussion of the research leads to a deeper understanding of the potential applications and considerations associated with walk and talk therapy, offering valuable insights for mental health professionals, researchers, and practitioners in the field of counselling
Connected, Complicated, and Constant: The Motherhood Experience in the Age of Social Media
No full textThe term "mother" evokes a complex tapestry of emotions, memories, and assumptions, profoundly shaping our sense of self. This literature review digs into the complexities of motherhood, specifically from the year 2004 to present, an era marked by the ascendance of social media platforms. Social media has profoundly shaped many aspects of the maternal experience since emerging as a ubiquitous, somewhat inconsistent force, often providing opportunities for connection, identify formation and a sense of community. Unfortunately, social media content can also generate and breed competition, pressure, and unrealistic standards, exacerbating the challenges faced by mothers in navigating their roles within society. Drawing
on feminist theory and empirical research, this literature review explores the many ways in which mothers are often constrained by traditional gender roles and expectations, perpetuated and magnified through their involvement and engagement with social media. By analyzing these intersecting dynamics, this paper seeks to contribute to a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding contemporary motherhood, and to advocate for more equitable and supportive frameworks that honor the diverse realities of maternal experiences in the digital age
Integrating Anti-Oppressive Practice into Mobile Mental Health Crisis Response
No full textThis capstone explores the integration of anti-oppressive practice (AOP) in Mobile Mental Health Crisis Response. The exploration is based on a comprehensive literature review of three crisis response models: police-led, co-response, and non-police community response. Each model is evaluated according to its effectiveness, challenges, and limitations, focusing on outcomes for marginalized populations. Findings suggest that while progress has been made in reducing harmful outcomes, significant gaps remain in the ability of each of these models to address the complex needs of individuals in mental health crises, especially those from marginalized groups. Recommendations include the integration of AOP across all models as a key way to improve service delivery and outcomes across all three models, the decreased deployment of police-led response, and the increased use of non-police community response models to address mental health crises
The Power of Community in Supporting Oppositional Defiant Disorder Through an Attachment Lens
No full textChildren with Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) demonstrate challenges in initiating and maintaining positive peer interactions. Experiencing insecure attachment with caregivers can contribute to children’s presentation of ODD. Furthermore, children who have ODD experience negative peer interactions and challenges in social inclusion that impact their ability to connect and engage in healthy relationships. The aim of this capstone is to provide an in-depth exploration of the impact of attachment insecurity on development ODD. A culturally inclusive lens is used to conceptualize families from a broader view and to suggest community integration as a resource for children who have ODD. In the final chapter, a presentation resource is proposed for counsellors to support counsellors in utilizing community resources for children experiencing ODD