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A Neurologically-Informed Treatment of OCD
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What are we trying to accomplish when treating OCD? Reducing anxiety? Preventing compulsions? Putting a person in control of their life? These intentions can keep us from being truly helpful. To break the stranglehold of avoidance and obsession, and combat the paralyzing effects of compulsions, clients need to learn the central roles of the amygdala and cortex pathways to empower them to confront their OCD, rather than let it direct their lives. You will learn and practice strategies to explain brain-based techniques that give clients effective methods to retrain the OCD brain. You’ll explore how to:
- Help clients see the functioning of the amygdala in their physical symptoms and avoidance, and how they can effectively calm the amygdala
- Provide Exposure with Response Prevention as the best method of teaching the amygdala new responses to triggers
- Use the most current knowledge on cortex areas that contribute to OCD to teach clients to resist circular processes that block their goals
- Teach clients a neurologically informed, mindful approach to obsession and worry that’s understandable, accessible, and empowering
Catherine Pittman, PhD, HSPP, Saint Mary's College
Catherine Pittman, PhD, HSPP, is a professor of psychology at Saint Mary’s College, Notre Dame, Indiana. Dr. Pittman is the author of the popular books Rewire the Anxious Brain: How to Use the Neuroscience of Fear to End Anxiety, Panic, and Worry (New Harbinger Publications) and Taming Your Amygdala (PESI Publishing & Media). She has a background in cognitive behavioral therapy, neuropsychology, fear-conditioning research, and has treated anxiety-based disorders in clinical practice for over 25 years.
Dr. Pittman’s experience makes her uniquely qualified to provide a clear understanding of neuroscience and how that informs the selection and application of successful anxiety treatment strategies. She is recognized for her clear, accessible explanations of the role of the amygdala, and her approaches to lifestyle change and cognitive restructuring that help motivate clients to be more engaged and motivated in therapy. Dr. Pittman regularly presents workshops at national conferences and webinars on anxiety treatment and is an active member of the public education committee of the Anxiety and Depression Association of America.
Speaker Disclosures:
Financial: Dr. Catherine Pittman has employment relationships with Saint Mary's College and Renew Counseling. She receives royalties as a published author. Dr. Pittman receives a speaking honorarium, recording, and book royalties from Psychotherapy Networker and PESI, Inc. She has no relevant financial relationships with ineligible organizations.
Non-financial: Dr. Catherine Pittman is a member of the Anxiety and Depression Association of America.
