ACT Training: A Brief & Trans-diagnostic Approach for Distress & Disability in Medical Settings
Presented by Dr. Lilian Dindo

This event will be good for 2 hours of PDUs/CEs

*Continuing Education credits available for Psychologists, LCSWs, LPCs, LMFTs, LCDCs, and Educators

Dr. Dindo is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Medicine, Section of Health Services Research at Baylor College of Medicine and a Research Health Scientist at the Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness, and Safety at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center. 

The focus of Dr. Dindo’s career has been on developing pragmatic and innovative ways to improve the mental health and functioning of patients suffering from chronic medical conditions. She has developed and tested a 1-day (5-hour) Acceptance and Commitment Training workshop for patients 1) with pain, mild traumatic brain injury, and distress; 2) undergoing orthopedic surgery and are at risk for developing chronic pain and opioid dependence; 3) with migraine pain and depression; and 4) with inflammatory bowel and significant distress. She has been continuously funded by the NIH and VA since obtaining her Ph.D. to test the effectiveness of ACT on mental health, functioning, and quality of life in these patient populations. She has also been involved in a multi-site, national project called PATIENT PRIORITIES CARE. This project aims to test an innovative approach to health care for older adults with complex health needs.  This approach, which is being integrated into real-world clinical practice, helps patients and clinicians focus decision-making and health care on what matters most — namely patients’ own health priorities.

After this meeting, you will be able to - 

• To better understand the value of transdiagnostic treatments in medical settings
• To explain the rationale for identifying depression and anxiety among patients with chronic disease
• To describe the role of avoidance in the exacerbation of distress and disability
• To understand the 6 mechanisms of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy