Optimizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Older Adults (Virtual Only)

Sponsored by the Bay Region

Presented by: Dr. Julie Erickson, PhD

Learning Objectives

Participants will be able to:

1. Attendees can list at least two reasons why older adults may need psychological treatment and common barriers to accessing evidence-based care.

2. Attendees can identify three different factors that may contribute to older adults' suboptimal response to cognitive behavioral therapy, with particular attention to biopsychosocial factors in later life.

3. Attendees can describe three adaptions to CBT protocols that support older adults, with particular attention to developmentally-informed approaches to case conceptualization and adjustments to interventions to accommodate cognitive and physical changes in later life.

Course Description

The number of older adults with mental disorders is expected to double by 2030, yet only one-third of this population accesses evidence-based treatments, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Compounding this issue, fewer than 2% of American psychologists report geropsychology as a competency, highlighting a critical shortage of qualified practitioners for older adults. This course aims to enhance learners' understanding of evidence-based principles and practices for adapting CBT to the unique needs of older adults. Key topics include developmental changes in later life from a biopsychosocial perspective, the epidemiology of late-life mental disorders, and the rates of, and barriers to, mental health help-seeking in this population. The literature on CBT efficacy for older adults will be summarized along with empirically-based strategies for optimizing treatment response. The course will elaborate on conceptual considerations (i. developmentally appropriate case conceptualization and ii. the interplay of physical and mental health), practical considerations (i. extended psychoeducation, ii. pacing, iii. cognitive supports, and iv. involvement of significant others) and adapting interventions (i. restructuring beliefs about aging and ii. medical contraindications to interoceptive exposure). The course will conclude with a case example illustrating the adaptation of CBT for an older adult with a phobic disorder.

Approved for 2 hours of general continuing education credits

Fees: Free for FPA Members; $50 Non-FPA Members

Refund Policy: 48 hours advance notice

Registration: https://flapsych.glueup.com/event/136502/register/

Online registration is required for this event

You must attend the complete program to obtain CE credit.

If accommodations for a disability is needed please contact nickcole@flapsych.com

The Florida Psychological Association is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. The Florida Psychological Association maintains responsibility for this program and its content.

The Florida Psychological Association is approved by the Florida Department of Health, Board of Psychology and Board of School Psychology to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. The Florida Psychological Association is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Mental Health Counseling as a provider of continuing education. The Florida Psychological Association maintains responsibility for the program and its content.