Workshop Description:

Psychologists have found that there is a close relationship between our activity and our mood. People who are depressed tend to do less overall, so they have fewer opportunities to feel pleasure, mastery, and connection. This workshop will present an overview of the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for Major Depressive Disorder and discuss relevant assessment tools. Participants will be introduced to the tenets of behavioral activation as one of the most evidenced-based approaches for depression. Behavioral activation strategies such as activity scheduling, ACE, pacing yourself, and credit lists will be explored. Case studies and video demonstrations will highlight these core strategies. Participants will be empowered to employ behavioral activation strategies with their clients in a systematic and effective manner.

Workshop Objectives:

• Identify and classify the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for Major Depressive Disorder.
• Demonstrate ability to engage in differential diagnosis of depressive disorders.
• Explain the philosophical tenets of behavioral activation and its primary goals.
• Describe a clinical rationale for behavioral activation as a preferred treatment approach for depression.
• Name at least five behavioral activation interventions and strategies.
• Employ behavioral activation strategies with clients to treat depression.