Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) can overwhelm a person throughout the lifespan and produce not only continuous and immeasurable emotional pain and suffering, but also result in serious mental and physical health problems. Approximately one-half of adults in the United States have experienced one ACE, and over 10% have experienced three or more ACEs (Sacks & Murphey, 2018). Sadly, many ACEs occurred in the home from physical, emotional, sexual abuse/neglect, and other factors that produced instability created by substance abuse, domestic disputes and violence, parents with narcissistic/borderline personality disorders, or some other overwhelming negative factor. The research shows that many individuals continue with lifelong struggles with mental health problems such as depression, low self-esteem, self-sabotaging behaviors, substance abuse, intimacy and trust problems, and interpersonal difficulties, to name a few. The primary goal of this presentation is to help participants understand several healing strategies that break the emotional and cognitive chains of previous ACEs. This presentation is designed to assist psychologists, other licensed mental health professionals, medical professionals, and ministry leaders in their approach to clients and those suffering from ACEs’ long-standing effects. A special focus will be placed on understanding and working with clients who have a Christian worldview.
036 | Mental Health Healing After the Trauma of Adverse Childhood Experiences
PRESENTERS
Fred DiBlasio, Ph.D.
CE CREDITS
3
Approved For CE
Psychologists, Licensed Professional Counselors, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists, Licensed Clinical Social Workers, Pastors, Pastoral Counselors, Lay Counselors, and Coaches
Approved For CME/CEU
Medical Doctors, Osteopathic Doctors, Physicians Assistants, Midwives, Nurses and Nurse Practitioners
LEVEL
Advanced
Summary
Learning Objectives
Discuss the research on Adverse childhood experiences and how Adverse childhood experiences are carried into adulthood and produce long-term mental and physical health problems.
Describe specific emotional and cognitive chains that bind others/self to their history of Adverse childhood experiences.
Identify strategies to help clients who suffer from Adverse childhood experiences find emotional and behavioral calm and resolution to mitigate physical issues.
Recommend strategies to those with a faith-based worldview.