The brain changes its form and function based on the thoughts and actions most frequently performed, what is thought and done today alters the brain, influencing future thoughts and actions. This can sometimes lead to unwanted habits, addictions, or intrusive thoughts, and despite attempts to develop strong willpower, change may remain elusive. In this workshop licensed mental health professionals and ministry leaders, will explore the biological reasons behind habit formation and why willpower often fails, through this understanding, participants will create a plan to harness the brain’s ability to change. Participants will identify patterns of thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that have become linked in the brain and develop a targeted plan to “untie” these unwanted connections. Additionally, participants will describe the “willpower trap” and how it connects to prayer, creating a prayer plan that supports positive life changes for willing Christian clients. Participants will also create a 30-day plan for improving Christian spiritual disciplines in alignment with how God has designed the brain to learn and grow.
712 | The Willpower Trap: Using Brain Plasticity to Change Thoughts and Behaviors
PRESENTERS
Alan Weissenbacher, Ph.D.
CE CREDITS
1.25
Approved For CE
APA, ASWB, NBCC, NAADAC, IBCC, Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling
Approved For CME/CEU
LEVEL
Intermediate
Summary
Learning Objectives
1 Identify patterns of thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that have become linked in the brain and create a targeted plan to “untie” these unwanted linkages.
2 Describe the “willpower trap” and how it relates to prayer, developing a prayer plan that helps the brain move toward positive life change for those clients who wish to incorporate faith into their treatment.
3 Create a 30-day plan for improving spiritual disciplines by partnering with how God has designed the brain to learn and grow from a Judeo-Christian worldview.