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June 2015
 Newsletter Editors:  Heather Blessing &
 Karen Ulep & Margaret Greenough
newslettereditor@sacramentovalleycamft.org 
 

Letter from the Board

June 1, 2015

Dear SVC-CAMFT Member,

As most of us head into a new season on the calendar, and associate it with long hot summer days, many of our members are heading into a new season of their lives.  They are graduating from college and anticipating their long road to licensure. This can be both exciting and daunting. Congratulations to all of you for the culmination of years of both personal and financial sacrifice. As a person who is allowed to go to work everyday doing something I love, surrounded by like minded people, I assure you what you have done and the further commitment of the road to licensure you will now be asked to do will be worth it.  Congratulations also to Heather Blessing, a longtime board member, and current newsletter editor as she has recently passed her boards and become licensed!

Thank you to Marti McClellan (One of or own) for a great talk last month. It was extremely well received. I have been using my Hot Flash Ladie’s fan ever since!

June’s speaker will be John Preston, PsyD.   If you have not had the opportunity to hear John speak before, I urge you to do so, Personally, I try not to miss him if he is giving a lecture in town. John is extremely knowledgeable in the areas of psychopharmacology, trauma and neurobiology.  John is local and very approachable. He is the rare speaker that combines superior intellect with generosity of heart, warmth and a huge dose of humor (his slides can be hilarious). 

Pre license meeting starts at 8:30 and is no charge. There will be two representatives from the BBS there to answer any questions new graduates have about the registration/road to licensure process. Please tell your friends and colleagues. Pre license meetings are open to all whether they are members of SVC-CAMFT or not.

Last month I began the conversation of advocacy and social justice and the roles of therapists and SVC CAMFT.  If you have an hour to volunteer alongside a few Sacramento County Probation officers doing some probation officers speaking about mental health wellness issues with youth please contact me at president@svc-camft.org.

I hope we all keep those living in traumatic situations and crises both here, in Texas and in other places in our thoughts.

Peace,

Ann Leber, LMFT

president@svccamft.org

President


  This issue:
· Letter From the Board
· Legal Beagle

·  Presentation Summary
· Upcoming Meeting
Information
· Upcoming Board Meetings

· Mental Health Community Events
· Interview with a Therapist
· Special Feature·
· Letters to the Editor

· Psyched about Books and Movies

· Advertising and Announcements

· Advertising Policy for the Newsletter

BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President:

Ann Leber, LMFT


President-Elect:
Patricia St. James, LMFT

Past President:
Jill  Lawler, LMFT

Secretary:
Becky Counter, LMFT

Treasurer:
Beverly Baldwin, MFT Intern

Members-At-Large:

Darlene Davis, LMFT
Joseph Borders, LMFT

Program Co-Chairs:
Carol Delzer, LMFT
Kari Deitrich, Trainee

Hospitality Co-Chairs:
Joshlynn Prakash, MFT Intern
Carol Mahr, LMFT
Nazia Khan, MFT Intern
Alexis Clemons, Trainee
Melinda Keeler, Trainee

Club 3000 Co-Chairs:
Sterling Evison, LMFT
Anna Garcia, Trainee
Charlotte Parks, LMFT

Volunteer Co-Chairs:
Amita Khare, Trainee
William Dickey, LMFT

Membership Co-Chairs:

Jenna Bell, MFT Intern
Michael Tablit, Trainee

Sponsorship Co-Chairs:
Rebecca Kneppel, MFT Intern
Sara Coffill, MFT Intern


Newsletter Editors:
Heather Blessing, LMFT
Margret Greenough, LMFT
Karen Ulep
, MFT Intern

Legislative Chair:

Bylaws Co-Chairs:
Jennifer Lombardi, LMFT
Elizabeth Roccucci, LMFT

IT:
Jen Huber, Intern


Communication Specialist
Karen Ulep, Intern


 


Legal Beagle

dectective.pngWelcome to the section of the SVC-CAMFT newsletter, Legal Beagle written by Darlene Davis, LMFT. The chapter thought it would be helpful to keep you updated on new laws, legislative pursuits or actions, as well as ongoing legal and ethical dilemmas we all face in our career as Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists, Interns, and Trainees. Please feel free to ask questions that you have and I will do my best to investigate and post your answer in the newsletter. Please note that articles are based on information from CAMFT and/or the BBS and have been researched to the best of my ability. This is not meant to be legal advice.  Please contact CAMFT or Board of Behavioral Sciences for any legal matters you need assistance for. 

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May Board of Behavioral Sciences May 21st meeting highlights:

First let’s start with the best news – Approval processing times for MFT licensure is down to 60 days!! That’s worth repeating – Approval processing times for MFT licensure is down to 60 days!!

Testing Structure

Stay tuned to the BBS website for an informational video on the new testing structure. Currently there is written FAQ’s on the board’s website.

MediCal Reimbursement

You may have seen requests to write your congress representative in favor of AB690 that allows LMFT’s to be reimbursed for Medi-Cal services at Federally Qualified Health Centers and Rural Health Clinics. It is unsure what will happen to this bill, whether it dies, is removed or becomes law. The only opposition is NASW –California Chapter. They believe Social Workers (SW’s) are better equipped to serve the populations that visit these agencies and that there are enough SW’s to cover the need. Stakeholders present argued against this reasoning. There is a large need for clinicians to work in these agencies and we have LMFT’s ready, equipped, and able to serve. The BBS took a support on this bill.

Telehealth by Trainees

Most of us have allowed trainees to collect hours conducting telehealth services as the law was changed I believe in 2012. A discrepancy in the law has been found whereas one law states they can count telehealth experience and another area of law that only states licensed and interns are eligible. This was not the intent and AB250 is written to clarify that trainees along with interns and licensed clinicians may conduct telehealth services.

Another regulation proposal concerning telehealth services was discussed. This would clarify what it means to provide telehealth services to someone physically located in California, how to obtain consent recommending both verbal and written documentation in client files, discuss procedures to follow in case of an emergency, inform client of potential risks and limitations, and provide number and type license or registration. The Board understands telehealth is the way of the future and will support drafting regulation.

 

CANRA sexual abuse reporting laws

You have heard in the past discussions about reporting or not reporting voluntary acts of sodomy, oral copulation, and sexual penetration. AB832 Child Abuse: Reportable Conduct is asking to specify that these are not reportable acts (unless it is between a person age 21 or older and a minor under age 16). CANRA has stated its intent was not to make this a mandated report. Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) legal department gave its opinion that also stated CANRA does not require a mandated report and the courts have left the distinction between abusive and non-abusive sexual relations to the judgment of the professional who deal with minors. The Board has decided to support this bill with an amendment proposed by the Board of Psychology that adds language “no indicators of abuse”.

When I listen to the arguments on both sides the language of heterosexual and homosexual references are made. This started me thinking that it should not be distinguished this way as heterosexual persons may also participate in sodomy, oral copulation, and sexual penetration (other than intercourse) so I invite all of us involved in these discussions to not label it heterosexual or homosexual acts.

Hours for licensure changes (bucket lists)

Lastly, SB620 streamlining the experience requirements for LMFT’s and LPCC applicants has passed the Senate!

These are not all of the bills or all topics discussed. Please visit www.bbs.ca.gov under board meetings for more information.

I also want to invite you to upcoming trainings beginning the end of June 2015 that I hope will help your success in passing the Law and Ethics Examination! Go to www.darlenedavismft.com and for more information. You can also contact me at dardav2@earthlink.net


*****************************************


Darlene Davis, LMFT Executive Director HOPE; Healthy Outcomes for Personal Enrichment MFT Stipend Coordinator for Greater Sacramento Instructor of University of Phoenix www.darlenedavismft.com www.hope-counselingcenter.org

 



  May Presentation Summary

A Dialogue about the Menopause Transition (2 CEUs)

By: Martha McClellan-Morehouse, LMFT/ Mentor Coach

Martha (Marti) engaged the group in a dialogue about the symptoms, treatment, and causes of menopause. Throughout her presentation she encouraged group participation through role playing and discussing case vignettes. Her presentation focused on perimenopause: “The years prior to the final menstrual cycle when most hormonal changes of the menopause process are occurring. This period could last from 1 to 8 or 9 years.”

            Women tend to experience natural menopause between the ages of 40 and 58 but some women experience perimenopause symptoms in their thirties. Perimenopause is associated with a number of symptoms including hot and cold flushes and flashes, mood instability, fatigue, profound sadness, migraines, vaginal dryness, anxiety, irritability, and many more.

Marti identified an issue that has become more common over time. Women are tending to have their first child later in life. This means that mothers are becoming more likely to experience perimenopause around the same time their children are entering puberty. This co-occurrence can pose difficulties for the mother, child, and family in general.

When working with women, it is important to consider the possibility that perimenopause is occurring. Often times women are medicated for individual symptoms without recognizing or acknowledging perimenopause. Some medications can worsen perimenopausal symptoms. Some other things that can worsen perimenopause symptoms include childhood difficulty/trauma, sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, stress, lack of time for mindfulness, poor social support, and limited access to sufficient treatment and care.



Summary by Joe Borders, LMFT



 

June Meeting Information

Free Pre-licensed 3000 Club Meeting

Topic:  Representative from the BBS coming to SVC-CAMFT
Presenter:  BBS Staff
Date:  Friday, June 19, 2015
Time: 8:30 AM to 9:45 AM
Location:  Heritage Oaks Hospital
4250 Auburn Blvd.
Sacramento, CA 95841
(map)

Workshop Information:

A BBS representative will be speaking at our next  SVC pre-licensed 3000 club meeting!  This is a rare opportunity to obtain information regarding the MFT BBS registration and licensure process. 

Please be respectful of the BBS speaker and hold comments until the end of the presentation.   A question and answer session will follow.  We expect a large turnout, so please also be considerate of the limited time allotted for others who also wish to ask questions.  Register on our website so we can ensure adequate seating. 

Also note, that our regular meeting does not begin until 10 a.m., therefore, you will be able to attend both should you wish to do so. 

Share this meeting information to your cohorts and colleagues.  We hope to see you there!  

Please Register online for Free for the Pre-License meeting so we are able to plan ahead for seating.

Monthly Training

Topic:  Psychopharmacology
Presenter:  John Preston, Psy.D., ABPP
Date:  Friday, June 19, 2015
Time: 9:30 AM to 12:00PM
Location:  Heritage Oaks Hospital
4250 Auburn Blvd.
Sacramento, CA 95841
(map)



Workshop Information:

This training reviews new developments in the field of psychopharmacology with a focus on how psychotherapists can enhance outcomes with clients taking psychiatric medications. It discusses common reasons that medical treatments fail (e.g. unsuspected medical disorders, non-adherence, side effects, fears and mis-information) and specific interventions to improve outcomes. How therapists can act as coaches with clients dealing with medication issues and collaborate with primary care prescribers. Also mentioned briefly are controversies, experimental treatments, new medications and the limitations of pharmacologic treatments.

Course Outline/Schedule:  (2 hour workshop)

  • Introduction: Inadequate outcomes in psychiatric medication treatment and the role of the psychotherapist in addressing this problem. Collaboration with prescribers and ethical issues to consider
  • Why people do not take medications as prescribed and specific intervention strategies for improving outcomes
  • Common and understandable fears and concerns: e.g. possible addiction; increased suicidal behavior in those taking antidepressants; do antidepressants work?
  • Common reasons for treatment failures: specifics on common medical disorders that often go unnoticed/undiagnosed for years and that contribute to psychological symptoms. How to evaluate and intervention strategies.
  • Brief review of new medications
  • Limitations of medical treatments for psychiatric disorders

Course Objectives:

¬    Help therapists develop better skills related to diagnosing psychiatric disorders and collaborating with primary care doctors and nurses
¬    Become familiar with new  medication treatments
¬    Identifying common reasons that people often do not reach full remission
¬    Intervention strategies for improving medication adherence
¬    Appreciate the limitations of pharmacologic treatments and the need for integrated approaches (combined use of medications and psychotherapy)

John Preston, Psy.D., ABPP is  Professor Emeritus with Alliant International University; Sacramento campus. He has also taught on the faculty of UC Davis, School of Medicine. Dr. Preston is the author of twenty-one books, five of which are psychopharmacology texts. He is the recipient of the California Psychological Association’s Distinguished Contributions to Psychology Award. He has presented over 500 workshops during the past 25 years, lecturing in the United States, Canada, Africa, Europe, and Russia.



Includes continental breakfast and 2 CEUs

Early registration ends Tuesday, June 16th
Early registration rates*:
2015 Licensed Member of SVC-CAMFT, AAMFT-Sacramento, and all local chapters of CAMFT: $20
2015 Pre-Licensed Member of SVC-CAMFT, AAMFT-Sacramento, and all local chapters of CAMFT: $15
Non-Member: $30

*Add $5 for late or "at-door" registration
For information on joining SVC-CAMFT or renewing your membership for 2015 please email: info@sacramentovalleycamft.org



More Upcoming Meeting Information


 Month Topic Speaker Location         
 July 18
 Law and Ethics Seminar
 David.Jenson/CAMFT
 University of Phoenix
 September 18
 Cultural Diversity
 Tonia Elliott-Walker
 Heritage Oaks
 October 16
 LGBT Panel
 LGBT Panel
 Heritage Oaks
 November 6
 Grief / Suicide Awareness TBA - AAMFT
 Rancho Cordova City Hall




Upcoming Board Meetings

Board Meetings are FREE for anyone to attend BUT you MUST register so we have an accurate headcount.
To Register click on the board meeting(s) you wish to attend.


Sunday, June 28, 2015 - 11:00AM - 1:00PM - Location:  TBD

Sunday, August 23, 2015 - 11:00AM - 1:00PM - Location:  TBD

Sunday, October 25, 2015 - 11:00AM - 1:00PM - Location:  TBD
Sunday, December 6, 2015 - 11:00AM - 1:00PM - Location:  TBD

 
 

Mental Health Community Events


This section will be for announcing Mental Health Community Events
such as walks/runs, fundraising, health fairs and other non-profit events.

To have an event listed please email newslettereditor@svccamft.org


June


Family Friday - June through August - It’s summertime, so the Crocker kicks it up a notch with Family Friday! Join other families in the E. Kendell Davis Courtyard for performances, playtime, and art-making inspired by children’s beloved books. Designed for a range of abilities and learning styles, Family Friday includes multisensory activities, creative fun, and a space for quiet time. Check the Crocker's website for weekly themes and featured community organizations.


Sacramento Pride

Capitol Mall between 4th and 7th streets
Saturday, June 6, 2015 at 11 a.m.
Hosted by:  Sacramento LGBT Community Center
Event Details

 
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Journey of Hope Art Event: Call to Writers and Artists
 
Calling all writers and artists!
 
Writers and artists are invited to submit works for a collaborative art event:
Journey of Hope: Real Life Stories of Living with Mental Health Challenges Portrayed Through Art
 
Artists and writers will be paired together to create a collaborative art piece.  Finished pieces will be shown at a community event on July 12, 2015 at the Elk Grove American Renaissance Institute of Arts (ARIA).
 
Artists and story writers please sign up by May 15, 2015.  For more information or to sign up, please email: journeyofhopeMH@yahoo.com
 
Story Writers: Share your experience with mental health challenges and journey of recovery (two pages max typed).  Submissions due June 1, 2015.
Writers, you may also create your own artwork to accompany your story.
 
Artists: Offer your artistic expression and portray someone’s story through your art.  Art pieces due July 1, 2015.
Thank you for your support of the “Mental Illness: It’s not always what you think” project,
 
Julie and Crystal

 
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THE OCD SACRAMENTO FOUNDATION AND THE INTERNATIONAL OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE FOUNDATION announce their 2nd Annual 1 Million Steps 4 OCD Walk in Sacramento at Southside Park on June 6th, 2015. Bring your family members, coworkers and friends and join us to help raise awareness about OCD and related conditions in our community, while also raising funds to support the important work of OCD Sacramento and the IOCDF.

The 1 Million Steps 4 OCD Walk is the first grassroots visibility and fundraising campaign to spotlight OCD on a national level. Proceeds will be used to improve access to effective treatment through educating mental health professionals and the general public about evidence-based treatments and supporting research into the causes of OCD and anxiety related disorders. Join us and be part of this very exciting movement of people advocating and raising awareness about OCD and related disorders!

For more information, contact Dr. Robin Zasio, Psy.D.,LCSW at 916.366.0647, Ext.4.
 
drrobin@atcsac.net 
 
 
http://OCDSacramento.org



 
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NATIONAL ATTACHMENT TRAUMA AWARENESS DAY - Join the NATA Partners and hundreds of parents, professionals and advocates as we speak out for traumatized children on the 2nd annual National Attachment Trauma Awareness (NATA) Day, June 19, 2015. For More Information http://nataday.attachu.org/

 
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Consumer Speaks Conference
When? - June 26, 2015 @ 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Registration from 9:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Where ? - Holiday Inn Sacramento-Capitol Plaza
300 J Street, Sacramento, CA 95814
This event is FREE and open to the public. No Pre-Registration is required.
Complimentary lunch will be provided.
Questions? Please contact Andrea Crook at (916) 875-4710 or CrookA@SacCounty.net
Award Ceremony
DEADLINE:
Deadline to send in nominations for the Award Ceremony is June 5, 2015
County of Sacramento Email Disclaimer: This email and any attachments thereto may contain private, confidential, and privileged material for the sole use of the intended recipient. Any review, copying, or distribution of this email (or any attachments thereto) by other than the County of Sacramento or the intended recipient is strictly prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender immediately and permanently delete the original and any copies of this email and any attachments thereto.


 
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Trauma, Love & the Brain: June 26 8:30am-4:30pm

Using Neuroscience and the Power of Human Connections to Help Children Heal

An inter-disciplinary training for those who work with or are concerned about children.

$100 - Click here to register


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Sunday, June 7 - Kaiser Permanente Women’s Fitness Festival

Grab your sisters, mothers, daughters and girlfriends for this fun run and festival. The Kaiser Permanente Women’s Fitness Festival 5k event promises to be a day you will remember, including:

  • Asics tech tee for all finishers
  • Finishers medals for all 5K participants
  • Post-race Sparkling Wine Garden
  • Free Kaiser Permanente Health Care Screenings
  • Blue Diamond Almonds Flavor Tasting Zone
  • Whole Foods Market Breakfast
  • Massage Envy Recovery Zone
  • Click Here for More Info



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    2015 Hunger Run / Walk
    June 27th, 2015 – 5K & 10K

    Elk Grove Food Bank Services continues to fight hunger in the south county area with our Eleventh Annual Run 4 Hunger 10K 5K Run/Walk and Kids Run (formerly Run 4 Independence) on June 27, 2015.  Click Here for More Info
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July


Saturday, July 18 Eppie’s Great Race® known as “The World’s Oldest Triathlon®”, “The Great Race”, the “No Swim” Triathlon is the largest paddling event in the United States! Sacramento-area restauranteur/entrepreneur Eppie Johnson founded the event in 1974, holding it’s first triathlon on July 27, 1974 being the first “Modern Triathlon”.  It has been held every year since and is a Sacramento-area summertime tradition for elite athletes, fitness enthusiasts, friends and families. The race features a 5.82-mile run, a 12.5-mile bike and a 6.35-mile paddle held along the scenic American River Parkway in Rancho Cordova and Sacramento. Awards are given to the first, second, & third place division winners. The event is presented by the Eppie’s Great Race Foundation and the primary beneficiary is Sacramento County Therapeutic Recreation Services  Click Here for more info

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July 25- Fab 40s Walk/Run In 2008 we launched a great community event, and we strive to make it even better every year. Realizing there is a tremendous need in the local community to help caregivers and their families, the Fab 40’s committee donates all proceeds from this event to the Alzheimer’s Association www.alz.orgClick here for more information.

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August

August 15  - Running with the Bears -  is a fundraiser for Mountain Circle Family Services Inc, a 501c3 non-profit foster care and adoption agency; we are proud to be one of the few Boston Qualifiers managed entirely by the Charity it benefits. Everyday, our Social Workers and volunteers provide caring support and training to nearly 100 foster children, teens, and caregivers across California and Nevada. This event raises money for special items such as camp tuition, school clothes, additional medical care, and for our foster teens: outdoor leadership and job skills training.  Our goal is to raise $50,000 for children and youth in foster care and you can help us do this by asking your friends and family to sponsor your race! You can even donate the money yourself. Its easy, fast, and every dollar makes a difference- plus, if you raise over $500, you run for free. Along the course, you'll meet the very Social Workers and foster teens that your fundraising is supporting! CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP  

 





Interview with a Therapist
Interview by Jen Huber MFT Intern
 
Q:  What is your name?
A:  NaiBrittany Fenton

Q:  What type of license/s do you hold?
A:  LMFT
 
Q:  How long have you been licensed?
A:  2 ½ years

Q:  Where do you work? 
A:  Sacramento County Mental Health Children’s ACCESS Team

Q:  Is it private practice or an agency?
A:  County agency

Q:  What client population/s do you work with?
A:  I authorize mental health and counseling services for individuals ages 0-21 if you
     have Medical. It’s different with children then it is with adults. Basically if you have
     any symptoms we will connect you. That’s my job.

Q:  Which, if any, certification/s or specialization/s do you have?
A:  I got a dual degree because I actually wanted to work in schools. I started in school
     counseling and when Sac State still allowed it I got a dual degree with MFT.

Q:  What made you decide upon a career in the mental health profession?
A:  I have always been comfortable working with diverse populations so I got my BA in
     sociology. I was also a teen mom in the inner city in LA. I had a lot of psychosocial
     stressors so I wanted to work with teens, troubled teens if I could. I started with
     school counseling and then I worked at La Familia. I also wanted to bring more
     awareness about mental health and try to reduce the stigma. After battling my own
     mental health issues of depression and anxiety I wanted to help educate other
     cultures that it doesn’t mean something is wrong with you. Especially with African
     Americans. I mean I really feel like I was meant to be in the field. I love the advocacy
     and working toward social justice.
 
Q:  Which client populations or particular types of mental health issues have been the
      most challenging for you to work with?
A:  Several populations. One of the most difficult populations I worked with was sex
     offenders. I had to do a lot of self-reflection, a lot of consultation. I didn’t want to do a
     disservice to the children. I mean I was a single mom of two so it was hard for me to
     provide treatment. I asked one of my colleagues how she could do it and she told me
     “at the end of the day they are just kids, most have been neglected, and abused.”
     That helped put it in perspective for me. It’s also hard to work with children in lower
     socioeconomic status households because it’s hard for the parents to be involved.
     The parents want to see change, growth, and progress but it takes a village and we
     are not miracle workers. If they are not doing their part it can be impossible. Lastly I
     would say it was difficult to work with the severely mentally ill in the hospital. It can be
     dangerous and difficult.
 
Q:  How have you dealt with clients with poor boundaries?
A:  This was common for me in inpatient and outpatient because my style is real. I try to
     be authentic and friendly and real so a lot of my clients started seeing me as a friend.
     I had to explain “I am your therapist not your friend.” I had to reinforce my role and
     set firm boundaries. Especially because I am very real and down to earth. Even the
     way I dress and who I am. I am not like a therapist on the TV where they always
     portray it as a white person with all this power. I dress casually, have an open door
     policy and sometimes people abuse this. I never want to interrupt my therapeutic
     relationship but I want to politely redirect the behavior.

Q:  What advice would you give for a pre-licensed mental health professional
     contemplating private practice versus other workplace options? 
A:  I have never done private practice. I am just beginning to explore it now. I am
     partnering with a couple colleagues but I am just exploring it. I would say that it’s
     important to do your research. Consult with someone who I successful. There are so
     many things that you need to know that you don’t know. In school they train you like
     you are going straight into a private practice but the vision and the reality are
     different. It’s a lot of work, it’s a process. I would suggest doing it on the side,
     shadowing, and consultation.
 
Q:  How do you feel about personal therapy being optional for psychotherapists?
A:  I think it should be mandatory. It helps you understand what a client goes through,
     you understand their anxiety, understand the stigma like “why am I going to therapy?
     Is there something wrong with me?” I think it helps you be more empathetic and
     understand. I mean we aren’t perfect. We have our own stuff to deal with. We need
     to process that. Leaning doesn’t stop. I mean I tell people how to reduce stress but
     sometimes I don’t take my own advice. Therapy helps clean up all the unfinished
     business.
 
Q:  Which personal attributes do you believe are most important for a therapist to
     possess and what are the most prominent skills that you think are essential for a
     pre-licensed therapist to focus on developing?
A:  Primarily ability to build rapport with a client. Therapy is not going to start unless the
     client trusts you. You have to create the space to disclose information. You need to
     be authentic and have the ability to connect with a client. Being culturally competent,
     and aware. You have to address your biases. Be willing to take risks. Being
     compassionate and open-minded. Do not fall back on ridged thinking. Be an
     advocate. This job is not just processing with people. You may need to sit in that IEP
     meeting and explain what is going on, explain diagnosis, educate on these
     processes.

Q:  Which mental health-related books have been your personal favorites or been most
     influential for you and are there any tools (e.g., particular assessments, games, etc.)
     that you find particularly effective for use in therapy?
A:  I really like using the Treatment Planning books. That whole series. It can be very
     useful especially when under pressure. They give great ideas. I use the pocket guide
     for the MSE. These are very useful especially with inpatient.

A:  What has been the most challenging aspect of your career?
Q:  Honestly managing the stress. Managing the pressure, high case load, and
     unrealistic expectations can be really emotionally draining. Especially when you are
     brand new. You end up taking on so many of the client’s problems. You have to learn
     to separate from work. I mean we are all naturally caring people and it can be hard
     because you are dealing with people who have mental health issues and they may
     not always be polite. We have to remain assured of ourselves, don’t second guess
     yourself. We get so caught up in how to respond correctly or appropriately to a client
     in crisis but we need to trust ourselves. Lastly in some of the jobs I have worked in
     really have a dangerous aspect to them. Dangers of home visits, of working in the
     hospital. We just have to be careful with all this because it can be taxing and we can
     easily get compassion fatigue.

Q:  What have you found to be the most fulfilling and meaningful aspects of your
     career?
A:  Just being a part of the process. Helping clients work through their stressors, and
     getting to empower them, motivate them. Even small changes are amazing to see.
     When they don’t know and you teach or model it to them and you see a light bulb
     click, it’s a sense of pride. I get to make changes, advocate, teach, and educate a
     diverse population.

Q:  Did you have a mentor or a particular person that influenced your growth as
     therapist? 
A:  Oh yes. Dr. Borunda. She was such a vital part of my education and who I am today.
 
Q:  If so, what did you learn from that person and how did he or she contribute to your
     development as a mental health professional?
A:  She taught me to be comfortable with the uncomfortable. She empowered me to be
     open-minded, to move away from just talk therapy. She taught me to meet the client
     where they are, to be creative, trust my instincts. She taught me to advocate for
     social justice, and take risks. I mean I was very uncomfortable when I started in
     school. I kept second guessing myself, and she just saw something in me that I didn’t
     see at the time. She is so rich with knowledge and just a wealth of information. She
     always said “don’t be one of those school counselors that is stuck behind the
     computer. Go out into the quad. Be someone the kids can talk to.” Just be
     open-minded.

Q:  What were the factors involved in the process of creating your own therapeutic
     style?
A:  Trusting my personal strengths. Doing a lot of self-reflection constantly to see what I
     feel comfortable with, what do I really think? I want to do things aligned with my
     beliefs of being nonjudgmental and meeting the client where they are. I would call
     myself integrative. I pull from a lot of different theories. It’s not one size fits all. I work
     with different people from different groups. I pull from different theories but stick to
     what I believe it.

Q:  How have you maintained the balance between your career and personal life and
     how have you managed to foster your own self-care?
A:  That was definitely a challenge in the beginning of my career. In 2008 I was
     graduating, pregnant, and getting married. It was crazy. I mean I ended up having
     four jobs, four kids, married, and trying to figure out what I wanted to do. It started to
     take away from my family and put strain on my relationship. I was hyper focused and
     we all were suffering. My husband told me “you need to be home.” So I found my
     niche. I started to cut out jobs. I joined a running group which helped with my social
     and physical needs. I made time for my family. I made that a priority. Mostly I had to
     learn how to say no. I need time for myself. I was so stressed out and frazzled. I had
     to go to my own therapy, lots of prayers, making sure my spiritual part is intact. Had
     to make taking care of myself and my family a priority because it started to get scary.
     I was taking home the stress and it affected others.

Q:  What do you know now that wish you knew before you became a licensed therapist?
A:  The importance of self-care. As an intern you’re so focused on getting hours and
     working hard you forget to take care of yourself. You put so much pressure on
     yourself. When I got my license it was like a new revelation. I worked too hard to get
     to that point and when I got there it was like now I can make taking care of myself a
     priority. I think it’s important to not put all that pressure on ourselves. It’s natural to
     want to see change but I am not going to work harder than my clients. I can’t put the
     whole thing on myself. The client has to want change too.

Q:  What additional advice would you give to a pre-licensed therapist?
A:  I think the importance of consultation and clinical supervision. Embrace that. You
     don’t get it later because it’s not mandatory. It’s great to consult with seasoned
     therapists. I would also use this time to take risks, explore other things, techniques,
     other jobs. See what population you want to work with. When I first started I worked
     four jobs and I got a lot of experience in a lot of different places in a short time.
     Remember learning doesn’t stop. I love going to conferences and lectures. Always
     always always check biases, assumptions, and beliefs. Ask questions if you need to.
     Ask about culture. We have books to learn about culture but everyone is individual.
     Asking those questions can build rapport. I would suggest working with populations
     that you never thought you would work with. Be able to consult and work with other
     professionals, psychiatrists, CPS, and community resources. Know community
     resources. Lastly don’t forget that it’s a fun field. Be creative and do things you didn’t
     think you would get to do.
 







Special Feature

Sleep Disorders in Children and Adolescents

John Preston, Psy.D.

    According the Shakespeare, sleep is the “bath and balm of hurt minds”. Sleep is the guardian of the brain; every night restoring the ability of the brain to function optimally. However, sleep is very fragile and almost any kind of stress can result in sleep disturbances. Sleep disturbances can occur with almost all psychiatric conditions as well as with primary sleep disorders. Poor or inadequate sleep is often not identified in many children and teens seeking psychological/psychiatric treatment, and is a common reason for less than adequate outcomes. One problem is that many parents simply do not know how well their child sleeps. Going to bed on time is one thing, but various forms of insomnia and other sleep problems may never be mentioned by youngsters and their parents simply do not know that a problem exists. It has been estimated that up to 25% of children and adolescents experience some form of sleep disturbance.

Sleep problems are commonly associated with situational stress, anxiety disorders, PTSD, depression and bipolar disorders. Initial insomnia (trouble falling asleep) is a common reaction to situational stress and is seen in most types of anxiety disorder. Middle insomnia (waking up numerous times during the night) and early morning awakening (waking up too early and being unable to go back to sleep) are frequently seen in people suffering from depression. Nightmares are very common in those with PTSD. And decreased need for sleep is a hallmark of mania. In each instance the pharmacological approach of choice is not to use sleeping pills, but rather to treat the psychiatric disorder (e.g. with psychotherapy, antidepressants, mood stabilizers, etc.).

    It is being increasingly recognized that primary sleep disorders are fairly common in children. These include night terrors, obstructive sleep apnea, bed wetting, sleep walking, and restless legs syndrome. Increasing rates of obstructive sleep apnea may be associated with significant increases in the incidence of childhood obesity. The treatment of these primary sleep disorders is beyond the scope of this article. The reader is referred to the National Sleep Foundation (www.sleepfoundation.org) for more information regarding treatment options for primary sleep disorders.

    A significant number of children do not have a sleep disorder per se, but simply do not sleep enough. Children (ages 1-5) need 12-14 hours of sleep per night; ages 6-12 need 9-11 hours and teenagers 9 hours per night. Youngsters stay up late often to play video games, watch television, be on the internet and social media or on cell phones. Of course sleep deprivation always results in some degree of daytime fatigue and decreased ability for maintaining concentration. However, beyond this is the significant negative impact of reduced sleep on all psychiatric disorders; especially evident is the adverse impact on affect regulation and a common cause of depression. Gangwisch, et al. (2010) conducted an in home survey on 15,652 adolescents, in grades 7-12 . In particular, they tried to assess the impact of sleep deprivation on rates of depression and suicidal ideations. Subjects were matched for sex, age, ethnicity and parental marital status. They compared outcomes for teens routinely going to bed before 10 pm to those going to bed after midnight. Those going to bed at midnight or later showed 24% more depression and were 20% more likely to have had suicidal ideations during the past 12 months. It should be noted that significant decreased amounts of slow wave (deep) sleep can alone result in depression in 40-45% of people (this is true for insomnias, sleep apnea and restless legs). In the Gangwisch article, the authors remarked that most adolescents actually do go to bed when told by their parents.

    Non-pharmacological treatments are the first line treatments of choice and include: no caffeine after 2 pm, sleep hygiene (e.g. reduce the amount of intensity during evening hours: including exciting video games and movies); sleeping in a dark and quiet room…with no television in the bedroom) and reduced “screen time” in the evening. Screen time refers to time spent looking at television, internet, and cell phone texting. Excessive screen time has been associated with increasing behavioral problems, psychological disorders and academic failure (for summary see: www.screentime.org). Additionally, all light emitted from screens emit large amounts of blue wave length light which has been shown to suppress the natural melatonin release that begins a couple of hours before sleep, and can thus reduce the quality of sleep. Of interest is the use of amber colored glasses that are worn in the evening which selectively screen out blue wave length light (these can be easily found on the internet).

    Medical treatments for sleep problems include the use of the following medications (note: all of these are considered to be “off label” use, with the exception of Benadryl): sleeping pills (e.g. Sonata Lunesta, Ambien), benzodiazepines (e.g. Ativan), alpha-2 agonists (e.g. clonidine), the antihistamines: Atarax and Benadryl, low doses of sedating antidepressants such as Remeron (7.5-15 mg), Silenor (3-6 mg) or Trazodone (25-100 mg)* and melatonin . The antipsychotic medication, Seroquel, is being used as a sleeping pill, but this is not recommended due to significant metabolic side effects (except as a part of treatment for bipolar disorder and psychotic disorders). Once again, research for use of these medications is scant and “off label”.

Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone made in the pineal gland in the brain. It helps to promote deep sleep. One of melatonin’s effects is to help to cool the body down during sleep which facilitates entry into slow wave (deep) sleep. In pharmacies and grocery stores synthetic melatonin can be purchased. During the past 10 years, this product has been widely used as a sleeping pill for children and teenagers. However, recent studies suggest that this may be problematic for use in children. This is especially so for people taking doses of 1-5 mg or more. Such doses increase the melatonin in a person’s system by a factor of 1 to 20 times the normal amount. This caution is echoed by both the National Institutes of Health and the National Sleep Foundation (http//:www.sleepfoundation.org). “Melatonin should not be used in most children. It is possibly unsafe. Because of its effects on other hormones, melatonin might interfere with development during adolescence” (http//:www.nih.gov ;key word: melatonin). Doses above 0.5 mg can aggravate depression and bipolar disorder.  It is also important to note that the use of birth control pills can raise levels of melatonin. Melatonin is, however, sometimes used to treat sleep problems in children that have primary sleep disorders, severe ADHD and other neurodevelopmental disorders. A low dose strategy may be useful in promoting better quality sleep: 0.5 mg three hours prior to sleep, without adverse effects. However, it should not be used as a sleeping pill (very low doses generally do not produce sedation). If higher doses are given sedation will occur, but this is where melatonin levels may be unsafe. Higher doses can cause drowsiness and also may increase depression. The lower dose strategy is recommended. Melatonin is not habit-forming and at low doses is well tolerated. Finally, it must be noted that the use of melatonin is experimental, and if used, parents should first talk with their pediatrician.

    Caution is advised in prescribing these drugs except in cases where very short-term treatment is the goal. By in large, the non-medical approaches listed above are most strongly recommended.

    Of special concern is the use/over-use of caffeinated products. There has been an escalation in the use of various energy drinks, in addition to caffeinated sodas, tea and coffee. Recently, concentrated caffeine powder and tablets and inhalable caffeine have become available on the internet. Even modest amounts of caffeine in circulation cannot only interfere with sleep onset, but also reduce sleep efficiency by decreasing time spent in deep (slow wave) sleep. Attached is a caffeine questionnaire that can be used for rapid screening of caffeine use. All youngsters should be screened for caffeine use. Doses in excess of 500 mg, even if limited to use before noon and any amount used later in the day may cause such sleep disruptions. Any use of caffeine can increase anxiety symptoms and use can lead to sleep deprivation that is a common factor provoking manic episodes in those with bipolar disorder. Systematic assessment of caffeine use is often not a part of typical clinical psychiatric evaluations and yet reduction or elimination of caffeine can be a high yield strategy improving the quality of sleep and reducing psychiatric symptoms. 

 

*footnote: Some children will actually experience anxiety when treated with trazodone due to the action of metachlorophenylpiperazine [MCPP] which is a metabolic by-product of trazodone (Brent, D. 2013).

preston.john@comcast.net

References available upon request


John Preston, Psy.D., ABPP is  Professor Emeritus with Alliant International University; Sacramento campus. He has also taught on the faculty of UC Davis, School of Medicine. Dr. Preston is the author of twenty-one books, five of which are psychopharmacology texts. He is the recipient of the California Psychological Association’s Distinguished Contributions to Psychology Award. He has presented over 500 workshops during the past 25 years, lecturing in the United States, Canada, Africa, Europe, and Russia.
preston.john@comcast.net

The views expressed in the Special Feature Articles do not necessarily reflect the Sacramento Valley Chapter of CAMFT or CAMFT. They should be understood as the personal opinions of the author. No information in this articles will be understood as official.  Other views and commentary are welcome and will be published as long as they are respectful and stick to the topic.

 


Letters to the Editor
Welcome to the Letters to the editor Section.  We want to hear what you want to say about SVC-CAMFT, CAMFT, current events and issues.  Please see below guidelines on submitting a letter.



 We Have No Letters to the Editor!  Let your voice be heard!  Write a letter to the editor!
__________________________________

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Psyched about Books and Movies

Welcome to "Psyched about Books and Movies!"  Each month we include a book or movie review by one of our readers.  Please see below guidelines on submitting a review.  Happy reading!


Title:  Counseling Victims of Violence: A Handbook for Helping Professionals
Publisher: Hunter House Inc., Publishers
Copyright: 2007
Author: Sandra Brown
Reviewer:  Karen Ulep, MFT Intern
Review: 

Each chapter of this book covers a specific type of violent victimization (i.e. stalking and cyberstalking, property crime, hate crimes, domestic violence, elder abuse, violence against children, sexual assault, homicide, and societal trauma).  While I recommend reading the book in its entirety as each chapter has extremely helpful information, it has wonderful reference charts in each chapter that you can just skip to if you need to jump right in.  The reference charts feature brief statements about what to do for that particular type of client in a crisis intervention, short-term counseling, and long-term counseling.  It also lists common client concerns so you can have a mental snapshot of what the client may be thinking but not stating in session.  Possible secondary victimizations, social/public services needed, recommended reading, and client resources are listed in these handy recaps.  The history of when an issue came to light or when legislation was passed protecting rights, is usually found in the first paragraph of the chapter along with statistics, however the data is from about 15 years ago so that should be researched further if you are presenting the information to a client.

 

Book/Movie Review Submission Policy

All reviews are not to exceed 1000 key strokes.
Your review should include the title, a short synopsis about why you like or dislike it, and the author’s name & publication date. You can also include a picture of the book and/or movie. After review, we will publish your review in our next newsletter. Reviews submitted that are longer than 1000 characters will be returned for editing. It is best to type your review in a Microsoft Word document to note how many key strokes (characters with spaces), how big your review is, and for your own record keeping. You can then copy and paste it into the online submission form located here (http://www.sacramentovalleycamft.org/Newsletter.html) To learn more about checking your review for key strokes, spelling grammer and size click below: (http://www.sacramentovalleycamft.org/How_to_check_review_in_microsoft_word.doc).

It is your responsibility to check for spelling and grammar errors.  Reviews must be received by the 20th of the month in order to appear in the next newsletter.

You can submit your review by: Visiting our webpage: www.sacramentovalleycamft.org

Mailing it in: P.O. Box 163385, Sacramento, CA 95816

 





Advertising and Announcements



 
JOB OPPORTUNITY AT THE COGNITIVE BEHAVIOR THERAPY CENTER OF SACRAMENTO VALLEY

The Cognitive Behavior Therapy Center of Sacramento Valley in Roseville is seeking a Licensed Therapist or experienced Registered Intern for an employment opportunity in our newly opened Roseville office. We specialize in evidence-based therapy for anxiety and obsessive compulsive disorders in adults, children and teens. Please visit http://cognitivebehaviortherapycenter.com/mft-therapy-jobs-sacramento-roseville  to learn more about the job opportunity and our center as well as how to apply.


REPRESENTING VICTIMS OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE


Law Offices of Joseph C. George, Ph.D.
Licensed Psychologist (PSY 7480)
Attorney at Law (SBN 119231)
Free consultation.
Website: www.psyclaw.com
Telephone: 916.641.7300



FULL TIME PRIVATE OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE IN ROSEVILLE

One private office space available immediately for full time use in Roseville; perfect for private practice. Referrals and sublets possible. Please visit www.rosevilleofficespace.weebly.com for photos and details or call 916-783-0563.
 

MORNING EMBODIMENT & RELAXATION SESSIONS
 

Tuesday and Thursdays 8:45-9:45 am
Living Arts Counseling Center, Folsom

These sessions are designed to help participants feel more connected to and supple within their bodies, and more relaxed and engaged in their response to daily life.

Discover your body as a source of comfort, relaxation, pleasure, and ease. Experience your body as a resource for attuned, mindful response to the demands of life. We will explore breath as a portal for central nervous system regulation, learn how to release anxiety and tension through movement, cultivate supple sturdiness through the support of gravity, experience sensation as a doorway to being here and now, savor full body engagement and integration, and learn the relief of containment and volume. Come begin your day with nourishing, welcoming community.

Contact Katrina Curry, MA
916-337-9901; indigotwilight@gmail.com.
For more info visit: www.katrinacurry.com.
Fee: $20 per session, or 10 sessions for $185.


 
ANNOUNCING UPCOMING TRAININGS SPONSORED BY
HOPE COUNSELING CENTER



DSM-5 Training Friday, June 5th 9-4p at National University Sacramento $120 6 CEU’s

Supervision Training Friday, July 24th 9-4p HOPE Counseling Center Roseville $100 6 CEU’s

See our website under training for specific information www.hope-counselingcenter.org

 

HOPE; Healthy Outcomes for Personal Enrichment Counseling Center, a 501(c) non-profit agency, offers affordable professional counseling in a comfortable, safe, and supportive environment. Our fees are on a sliding fee scale. We have locations in Folsom, Roseville, and downtown Sacramento. To learn more about HOPE Counseling Center, please visit

www.hope-counselingcenter.org and you can also call 916-780-1059 or 915-444-2170. Darlene Davis, LMFT, Executive Officer of HOPE; Healthy Outcomes for Personal Enrichment Counseling Center.
 
THE OCD SACRAMENTO FOUNDATION AND THE INTERNATIONAL OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE FOUNDATION
ANNOUNCE THEIR 2ND ANNUAL 1 MILLION SSTEPS 4 OCD WALK

Announce their 2nd Annual 1 Million Steps 4 OCD Walk in Sacramento at Southside Park on June 6th, 2015.

Bring your family members, coworkers and friends and join us to help raise awareness about OCD and related conditions in our community, while also raising funds to support the important work of OCD Sacramento and the IOCDF.

The 1 Million Steps 4 OCD Walk is the first grassroots visibility and fundraising campaign to spotlight OCD on a national level. Proceeds will be used to improve access to effective treatment through educating mental health professionals and the general public about evidence-based treatments and supporting research into the causes of OCD and anxiety related disorders. Join us and be part of this very exciting movement of people advocating and raising awareness about OCD and related disorders!

For more information, contact Dr. Robin Zasio, Psy.D.,LCSW at 916.366.0647, Ext.4.
 
drrobin@atcsac.ne
t  
 
http://OCDSacramento.org
 
SUPPLE: AN ADVENTURE INTO SOCIAL CONNECTION


Living Arts Counseling Center, Folsom
Tuesdays 5:15-7pm
Session 1: June 16, 23, 30
Session 2: July 7, 14, 21

Experiential psychotherapy groups for adults who yearn for community and greater ease in relationships with others. Register for one or both of the sessions; content and process will be complementary and distinct.
Supported exploration of fluid aliveness in social connection, providing creative, experiential pathways through anxiety, self-judgment, and fear, into ease and playfulness. Participants will discover multiple pathways to relax into themselves while in responsive, creative communion with others.
The methodology: mindfulness, embodiment, and relaxation training, woven with structured improvisational creative expression and relational inquiries through art, movement, writing, and play.

Fee: $250 per session, $450 for both
Preregistration required
Contact Katrina Curry, MA for more info:
916-337-9901; indigotwilight@gmail.com





 

Advertising Policy for the Newsletter

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Ads submitted that are longer than 1000 characters will be returned for editing. It is best to type your ad in a Microsoft Word document to note how many characters, how big your ad is, and for your own record keeping. Please visit our site to find more information on how to use Microsoft word for editing. You can then copy and paste it on our online submission form located here (http://www.sacramentovalleycamft.org/Newsletter.html)

It is your responsibility to check for spelling and grammar errors.

 

Ads must be received by the 25th of the month in order to appear in the next newsletter. Ads are placed in the order that they are received.

 

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