Modified Cognitive Behavioral Training For Mental Health Providers

Local autism network offering modified cognitive behavioral training to mental health providers The Alabama Regional Autism Networks are offering in-person training sessions throughout the state on how providers can modify traditional cognitive behavioral therapies when working with individuals with autism. The workshop will be offered in Mobile by the University of South Alabama Regional Autism Network (USARAN) on Friday, July 21, from 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. in the John Counts Room at the Mitchell Center on the USA campus. Amy Mitchell, director of the USARAN, said the training is becoming more important for mental health providers, counselors and social workers to have. “Mental health providers are reporting an increase in the number of individuals with autism seeking mental health services for such things as anxiety, depression, executive function and social skills,” she said. Traditional strategies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), often need to be modified to properly and effectively address the needs of this population. “This workshop was developed by the Alabama Regional Autism Network in response to requests from mental health professionals across the state for training to modify traditional strategies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, to meet the unique needs of autistic individuals,” Mitchell said. The registration fee for the conference is $50 per person, and it includes CEUs, a light continental breakfast and beverages. To register, visit https://training.ua.edu/aebpai/.