Category Archives: Mental Health

News and continuing education information for mental health professionals

Closeout Courses: 50% Off To-Be-Retired Online CE

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We are preparing to launch our new website in the coming months and are retiring a host of oldie-but-goodie online continuing education (CE) courses. Some of these closeout courses are being updated and will be reintroduced on our new website (which will finally be mobile friendly! :). Others will permanently retire with our current website. But you’ll still have 3 years from purchase date to complete (except for SLPs, who have until the ASHA expiration date).

You can now save 50% on these courses in our Closeout Sale:

Closeout Courses for Psychologists
Closeout Courses for Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs)
Closeout Courses for Counselors and MFTs
Closeout Courses for Occupational Therapists (OTs)
Closeout Courses for Social Workers
Closeout Courses for School Psychologists
Closeout Courses for Teachers

Click here to view ALL Closeout courses.

Professional Development Resources is approved by the American Psychological Association (APA) to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. Professional Development Resources maintains responsibility for this program and its content. Professional Development Resources is also approved by the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC ACEP #5590); the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB Provider #1046, ACE Program); the Continuing Education Board of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA Provider #AAUM); the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA Provider #3159); the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR CPEU Prior Approval Program); the Alabama State Board of Occupational Therapy; the Arizona Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners; the Florida Boards of Social Work, Mental Health Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy, Psychology and Office of School Psychology, Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, Dietetics and Nutrition, and Occupational Therapy Practice; the Georgia State Board of Occupational Therapy; the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners – Occupational Therapy; the Mississippi MSDoH Bureau of Professional Licensure – Occupational Therapy; the New York State Education Department’s State Board for Psychology as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed psychologists (#PSY-0145), State Board for Mental Health Practitioners as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed mental health counselors (#MHC-0135) and marriage and family therapists (#MFT-0100), and the State Board for Social Workers an approved provider of continuing education for licensed social workers (#SW-0664); the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker and MFT Board (#RCST100501) and Speech and Hearing Professionals Board; the South Carolina Board of Examiners for Licensure of Professional Counselors and Therapists (#193), Examiners in Psychology, Social Worker Examiners, Occupational Therapy, and Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology; the Tennessee Board of Occupational Therapy; the Texas Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists (#114) and State Board of Social Worker Examiners (#5678); the West Virginia Board of Social Work; the Wyoming Board of Psychology; and is CE Broker compliant  (#50-1635 – all courses are reported within a few days of completion).

Enjoy 20% off all online continuing education (CE/CEU) courses @pdresources.org! Click here for details.

Earn CE Wherever YOU Love to Be!

Ageism: Combatting Stereotypes – New Online CE

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Ageism: Combatting Stereotypes is a new 1-hour online continuing education (CE) course that examines ageist stereotypes and provides strategies to combat them.

Ageism: Combatting Stereotypes is a new 1-hour online CE course that examines ageist stereotypes and provides strategies to combat them.

Ageism is defined as discrimination against older people because of negative and inaccurate stereotypes—and it’s so ingrained in our culture that we often don’t even notice. Ageism includes the tendency to regard older persons as debilitated, unworthy of attention, or unsuitable for employment or other meaningful activity. If we have the good fortune to live a long life, inaccurate stereotypes about aging will harm all of us.

The first goal of this course is to heighten your awareness of ageism and how it impacts patient care. We will review theoretical constructs of ageism; research evidence of its existence in Western culture and in healthcare in particular; and consider the common negative consequences of this prejudice. The second goal of this course is to consider the ways in which we combat ageism at both the personal and institutional levels. Finally, we will examine both research and case examples of successful or “robust” aging and highlight supercentenarians whose accomplishments provide living proof that disputes ageist beliefs. Course #11-53 | 2023 | 23 pages | 10 posttest questions

About the Author:

Catherine S. Spayd, PhD, is a clinical psychologist in independent, private practice in Duncansville, PA. Dr. Spayd received her Master’s and PhD degrees in Clinical Psychology from Penn State University. She completed a pre-doctoral internship in clinical psychology at Friends Hospital in Philadelphia, PA, and a post-doctoral fellowship in geropsychology at Philadelphia Geriatric Center. Dr. Spayd has been a licensed psychologist in Pennsylvania since 1991. Before developing a full-time private practice in 2000, she worked for 2 years as a Rehabilitation Psychologist at Mercy Regional Health System, in Altoona, PA. She then created, developed and was Clinical Director for 6 years at PathWays, Bon Secours-Holy Family Hospital’s inpatient and partial hospitalization geropsychiatric programs. Dr. Spayd was appointed as a member of the Pennsylvania State Board of Psychology in October of 2014.

Click here to learn more about Ageism: Combatting Stereotypes

Professional Development Resources is approved by the American Psychological Association (APA) to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. Professional Development Resources maintains responsibility for this program and its content. Professional Development Resources is also approved by the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC ACEP #5590); the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB Provider #1046, ACE Program); the Continuing Education Board of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA Provider #AAUM); the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA Provider #3159); the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR Provider #PR001); the Alabama State Board of Occupational Therapy; the Arizona Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners; the Florida Boards of Social Work, Mental Health Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy, Psychology and Office of School Psychology, Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, Dietetics and Nutrition, and Occupational Therapy Practice; the Georgia State Board of Occupational Therapy; the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners – Occupational Therapy; the Mississippi MSDoH Bureau of Professional Licensure – Occupational Therapy; the New York State Education Department’s State Board for Psychology as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed psychologists (#PSY-0145), State Board for Mental Health Practitioners as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed mental health counselors (#MHC-0135) and marriage and family therapists (#MFT-0100), and the State Board for Social Workers an approved provider of continuing education for licensed social workers (#SW-0664); the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker and MFT Board (#RCST100501) and Speech and Hearing Professionals Board; the South Carolina Board of Examiners for Licensure of Professional Counselors and Therapists (#193), Examiners in Psychology, Social Worker Examiners, Occupational Therapy, and Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology; the Tennessee Board of Occupational Therapy; the Texas Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists (#114) and State Board of Social Worker Examiners (#5678); the West Virginia Board of Social Work; the Wyoming Board of Psychology; and is CE Broker compliant  (#50-1635 – all courses are reported within a few days of completion).

Enjoy 20% off all online continuing education (CE/CEU) courses @pdresources.org! Click here for details.

Earn CE Wherever YOU Love to Be!

Informal Narcissism (Not a Diagnosis)

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Informal narcissism (labeling of narcissistic behaviors and attitudes) fits easily into casual observations of annoying traits, while “its technical definition describes a devastatingly vulnerable person, compensating for a deeply imprinted inadequacy with a desperate need for admiration, and a grandiose self-image.”

Informal narcissism (labeling of narcissistic behaviors and attitudes) fits easily into casual conversations of annoying traits, yet...

The word “narcissism” has been appearing more and more frequently in descriptions of other people by laypersons in casual conversations, pop news stories, and therapy sessions. Such usage is not necessarily as accurate or as informed as would be the case following appropriate clinical examination by a health care professional. It is important to remember that a person’s occasional display of some narcissistic behaviors is not equivalent to a valid clinical diagnosis of NPD.

For instance, writers Maureen Callahan, in her New York Post article on July 1, 2022), and Emily Nussbaum, as mentioned by Ben Booker in response to Peter Craven’s book review (2022) of a recent book by Woody Allen, both refer to Woody Allen and Alec Baldwin as “malignant narcissists.” This disparaging label was not the result of any psychiatrist or psychologist’s diagnosis. In fact, that term may not even be the most appropriate psychiatric diagnosis for either of those famous men, even if they had been professionally examined.

In another example of informal narcissism: the author personally knows a woman, the mother of three children, who insists that the celebration of their birthdays should consist of an equal celebration of herself. Why? She birthed those children. In her view, she deserves equal commemorative festivities from her friends and family instead of the congratulations just for her children. If that doesn’t happen and all the attention is given to the child, she becomes clearly upset and disappointed. Other people in her orbit, whom she expects will also be sympathetic to this major offense, soon learn of her hurt feelings.

Another casual application of this disorder’s term is the narcissistic personal self-description from a college student who had been to the dentist for a routine teeth cleaning. She complained bitterly that none of her friends had called her later that day to see if she was okay.

Among other lay terms, narcissism is revealed by a person’s excessive self-involvement, vanity, egocentrism, and the dramatic lack of empathy and near total disregard for other people’s feelings. In reality, all personality disorders are essentially on a continuum with normal behavior.

21 Signs of a Narcissist (Informal Narcissism)

  1. Inflated sense of superiority and entitlement
  2. Excessive need for constant praise and admiration
  3. Perfectionism
  4. Lack of empathy
  5. Need for control
  6. Easily provoked
  7. Extremely selfish
  8. Unable to deal with criticism, perceived slights, or disagreements
  9. Hypersensitive, defensive, and anxious
  10. Not settling for anything less than what you think you deserve
  11. Surrounding yourself with people who constantly admire you
  12. Expecting everyone to comply with your wishes and whims
  13. Thinking others always need a favor from you
  14. Exploiting others without guilt or shame
  15. Taking unfair advantage of others
  16. Frequently demeaning others
  17. Getting intimidated by others you perceive as stronger than you
  18. Fantasizing often about power, brilliance, beauty, and ideal love
  19. Ignoring facts and opinions that contradict your own
  20. Refusing to change your behavior no matter how much chaos it creates in your life
  21. Blaming others for your behavior

This excerpt is from Narcissism and Narcissistic Personality Disorder, a 2-hour online continuing education (CE) course that distinguishes between the informal narcissism (labeling of narcissistic behaviors and attitudes), and the applications of the DSM criteria for a formal clinical diagnosis of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD).

Professional Development Resources is approved by the American Psychological Association (APA) to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. Professional Development Resources maintains responsibility for this program and its content. Professional Development Resources is also approved by the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC ACEP #5590); the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB Provider #1046, ACE Program); the Continuing Education Board of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA Provider #AAUM); the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA Provider #3159); the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR Provider #PR001); the Alabama State Board of Occupational Therapy; the Arizona Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners; the Florida Boards of Social Work, Mental Health Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy, Psychology and Office of School Psychology, Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, Dietetics and Nutrition, and Occupational Therapy Practice; the Georgia State Board of Occupational Therapy; the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners – Occupational Therapy; the Mississippi MSDoH Bureau of Professional Licensure – Occupational Therapy; the New York State Education Department’s State Board for Psychology as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed psychologists (#PSY-0145), State Board for Mental Health Practitioners as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed mental health counselors (#MHC-0135) and marriage and family therapists (#MFT-0100), and the State Board for Social Workers an approved provider of continuing education for licensed social workers (#SW-0664); the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker and MFT Board (#RCST100501) and Speech and Hearing Professionals Board; the South Carolina Board of Examiners for Licensure of Professional Counselors and Therapists (#193), Examiners in Psychology, Social Worker Examiners, Occupational Therapy, and Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology; the Tennessee Board of Occupational Therapy; the Texas Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists (#114) and State Board of Social Worker Examiners (#5678); the West Virginia Board of Social Work; the Wyoming Board of Psychology; and is CE Broker compliant  (#50-1635 – all courses are reported within a few days of completion).

Enjoy 20% off all online continuing education (CE/CEU) courses @pdresources.org! Click here for details.

Earn CE Wherever YOU Love to Be!

The Wounded Healer

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The term ‘the wounded healer’ dates to Plato in ancient Greek medicine and has flourished across cultures having roots in early shamanistic communities. The Greek word “wound” translates to what we think of as trauma. ‘Healer’ refers to anyone who treats or somehow helps another emotionally, mentally, physically, or spiritually. Healers in modern society look like teachers, nurses, counselors, therapists, caregivers, etc.

Wounded healers are healers who have suffered, then managed, their own deep wounds and are often most effective at supporting others.

According to trauma expert Dr. Omar Reda (2022), being a wounded healer is seen as both a vulnerability and a strength. In transforming our own pain, whether that be from our own early, personal traumatic experiences or shared traumatic experiences during a pandemic, we are uniquely positioned to help others heal. In fact, according to Dr. Reda’s research, healers who have suffered, then managed, their own deep wounds often are most effective at supporting others, compared to those with less challenging life experiences.

Wounded healers are gifts to the helping professions because they have endured traumatic, yet valuable life experiences, increasing their capacity for understanding, empathy, self-care, and resiliency. As acknowledged empathetic Wounded Healers, we are tasked with helping others with their emotional health while at the same time addressing our own needs.

How is Pandemic Stress Different from Routine Occupational Stress?

In 2022, research findings show that the risk of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) among workers remains alarmingly high compared to before the pandemic. Experts conducting the study caution that PTSD makes people more emotionally volatile and increasingly susceptible to stress, anxiety, depression, and addiction. It will take little to impact employee’s mental state and the post pandemic effects could linger within individuals to varying degrees and for over a period of years. This includes those in the helping professions, who are vulnerable to feeling overwhelmed by witnessing the suffering of others (Watson, 2022).

Emotional stress from witnessing the suffering of others, also known as secondary loss experience, or more aptly, secondary trauma, is also called ‘compassion fatigue.’ Compassion fatigue is now studied as its own syndrome. Those in a helping profession can not only suffer from compassion fatigue but can also feel a magnetic pull to help others, causing them to prioritize their patients and abandon their own self-care.

—

The above excerpt is from Healing the Healer, a one-hour online continuing education (CE) course that seeks to cultivate the emotional well-being of healthcare professionals who have been on the front lines supporting others. Click here to learn more.

Professional Development Resources is approved by the American Psychological Association (APA) to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. Professional Development Resources maintains responsibility for this program and its content. Professional Development Resources is also approved by the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC ACEP #5590); the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB Provider #1046, ACE Program); the Continuing Education Board of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA Provider #AAUM); the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA Provider #3159); the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR Provider #PR001); the Alabama State Board of Occupational Therapy; the Arizona Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners; the Florida Boards of Social Work, Mental Health Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy, Psychology and Office of School Psychology, Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, Dietetics and Nutrition, and Occupational Therapy Practice; the Georgia State Board of Occupational Therapy; the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners – Occupational Therapy; the Mississippi MSDoH Bureau of Professional Licensure – Occupational Therapy; the New York State Education Department’s State Board for Psychology as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed psychologists (#PSY-0145), State Board for Mental Health Practitioners as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed mental health counselors (#MHC-0135) and marriage and family therapists (#MFT-0100), and the State Board for Social Workers an approved provider of continuing education for licensed social workers (#SW-0664); the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker and MFT Board (#RCST100501) and Speech and Hearing Professionals Board; the South Carolina Board of Examiners for Licensure of Professional Counselors and Therapists (#193), Examiners in Psychology, Social Worker Examiners, Occupational Therapy, and Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology; the Tennessee Board of Occupational Therapy; the Texas Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists (#114) and State Board of Social Worker Examiners (#5678); the West Virginia Board of Social Work; the Wyoming Board of Psychology; and is CE Broker compliant  (#50-1635 – all courses are reported within a few days of completion).

Enjoy 20% off all online continuing education (CE/CEU) courses @pdresources.org! Click here for details.

Earn CE Wherever YOU Love to Be!

Prescription Drugs Abuse & Misuse – New CE

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Prescription Drugs Abuse & Misuse is a new 3-hour online continuing education (CE) course that examines the misuse of prescription drugs (including opioids) in the United States.

Prescription Drugs Abuse & Misuse is a new 3-hour online CE course that examines the misuse of prescription drugs in the US.

Misuse of prescription drugs means “taking a medication in a manner or dose other than prescribed; taking someone else’s prescription, even if for a legitimate medical complaint such as pain; or taking a medication to feel euphoria” and is a serious public health problem in the United States.

When taken as prescribed, medication can be of great benefit to a patient, helping reduce pain, save lives, and improve one’s overall quality of life. However, when individuals misuse their prescribed medications or take medications not prescribed to them, the consequences can be disastrous. Illicit drug use, including the misuse of prescription medications, affects the health and well-being of millions of Americans. Among other deleterious effects, cardiovascular disease, stroke, cancer, infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis, and lung disease can all be affected by drug use. The important thing to remember is that the medications are not inherently bad in and of themselves – it is how people use (and abuse) them that creates a problem.

This course will discuss what drives people to abuse prescription drugs and how they obtain them; diagnostic criteria for substance use disorder; history and progression of prescription drug abuse, including types and classes of drugs used; and the cost of prescription drug abuse on addicts and non-addicts alike. The course will then review the sequence of treating individuals who have a prescription drug use disorder, including screening, assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and maintenance. Screening tools, assessment instruments, treatment programs, and evidence-based recommendations are included. Comorbidity between substance use disorder and mental disorders is also discussed. Course 31-49 | 2023 | 60 pages | 20 posttest questions

Click here to learn more about Prescription Drugs Abuse & Misuse

Professional Development Resources is approved by the American Psychological Association (APA) to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. Professional Development Resources maintains responsibility for this program and its content. Professional Development Resources is also approved by the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC ACEP #5590); the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB Provider #1046, ACE Program); the Continuing Education Board of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA Provider #AAUM); the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA Provider #3159); the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR Provider #PR001); the Alabama State Board of Occupational Therapy; the Arizona Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners; the Florida Boards of Social Work, Mental Health Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy, Psychology and Office of School Psychology, Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, Dietetics and Nutrition, and Occupational Therapy Practice; the Georgia State Board of Occupational Therapy; the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners – Occupational Therapy; the Mississippi MSDoH Bureau of Professional Licensure – Occupational Therapy; the New York State Education Department’s State Board for Psychology as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed psychologists (#PSY-0145), State Board for Mental Health Practitioners as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed mental health counselors (#MHC-0135) and marriage and family therapists (#MFT-0100), and the State Board for Social Workers an approved provider of continuing education for licensed social workers (#SW-0664); the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker and MFT Board (#RCST100501) and Speech and Hearing Professionals Board; the South Carolina Board of Examiners for Licensure of Professional Counselors and Therapists (#193), Examiners in Psychology, Social Worker Examiners, Occupational Therapy, and Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology; the Tennessee Board of Occupational Therapy; the Texas Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists (#114) and State Board of Social Worker Examiners (#5678); the West Virginia Board of Social Work; the Wyoming Board of Psychology; and is CE Broker compliant  (#50-1635 – all courses are reported within a few days of completion).

Enjoy 20% off all online continuing education (CE/CEU) courses @pdresources.org! Click here for details.

Earn CE Wherever YOU Love to Be!

Pedophilic Disorder – New Online CE Course

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Pedophilic Disorder is a new 2-hour online continuing education (CE) course that offers an in depth look at the defining characteristics of pedophilia and current best practices for treatment.

Pedophilic Disorder is a new 2-hour online CE course that examines pedophilia and current best practices for treatment.

The diagnostic criteria for pedophilic disorder and its relationship to associated crimes, such as child molestation, human trafficking, prostitution, drug abuse, child pornography, and child abuse and neglect is discussed. Though the exact causes of pedophilia are still not well known, information is provided on its prevalence in society and highlights how pedophilic interests may arise. Sexual abuse cases from the news and case studies of pedophiles are also reviewed.

Current laws, legal definitions, and limitations are summarized, and a review of the research on sex offender treatments are presented, to increase practitioners’ understanding of pedophilia, so that they can ultimately identify and treat pedophiles for the purpose of safeguarding children. Course #21-58 | 2023 | 31 pages | 15 posttest questions

Click here to learn more about Pedophilic Disorder

About the Author:

Louis R. Franzini, PhD, received his B.S. degree in Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh, his M.A. degree in Clinical Psychology at the University of Toledo, and his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh. He then completed a Postdoctoral Fellowship in Behavior Modification at the State University of New York at Stony Brook (now Stony Brook University). Following the postdoctoral program Dr. Franzini joined the Psychology Department at San Diego State University, where he spent his entire academic career. He retired as Emeritus Professor of Psychology. His international academic experience included appointments as Distinguished Professor of Psychology at the Universite Catholique de Louvain, Louvain-le-Neuve, Belgium and Senior Fellow in the School of Accountancy and Business, Human Resource and Quality Management Division at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. Dr. Franzini is licensed as a psychologist in Florida and in California.

Professional Development Resources is approved by the American Psychological Association (APA) to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. Professional Development Resources maintains responsibility for this program and its content. Professional Development Resources is also approved by the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC ACEP #5590); the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB Provider #1046, ACE Program); the Continuing Education Board of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA Provider #AAUM); the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA Provider #3159); the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR Provider #PR001); the Alabama State Board of Occupational Therapy; the Arizona Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners; the Florida Boards of Social Work, Mental Health Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy, Psychology and Office of School Psychology, Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, Dietetics and Nutrition, and Occupational Therapy Practice; the Georgia State Board of Occupational Therapy; the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners – Occupational Therapy; the Mississippi MSDoH Bureau of Professional Licensure – Occupational Therapy; the New York State Education Department’s State Board for Psychology as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed psychologists (#PSY-0145), State Board for Mental Health Practitioners as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed mental health counselors (#MHC-0135) and marriage and family therapists (#MFT-0100), and the State Board for Social Workers an approved provider of continuing education for licensed social workers (#SW-0664); the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker and MFT Board (#RCST100501) and Speech and Hearing Professionals Board; the South Carolina Board of Examiners for Licensure of Professional Counselors and Therapists (#193), Examiners in Psychology, Social Worker Examiners, Occupational Therapy, and Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology; the Tennessee Board of Occupational Therapy; the Texas Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists (#114) and State Board of Social Worker Examiners (#5678); the West Virginia Board of Social Work; the Wyoming Board of Psychology; and is CE Broker compliant  (#50-1635 – all courses are reported within a few days of completion).

Enjoy 20% off all online continuing education (CE/CEU) courses @pdresources.org! Click here for details.

Earn CE Wherever YOU Love to Be!

Narcissism and NPD – New Online CE Course

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Narcissism and NPD is a new 2-hour online continuing education (CE) course that distinguishes between the informal labeling of narcissistic behaviors and attitudes, and the applications of the DSM criteria for a formal clinical diagnosis of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD).

Narcissism and NPD is a new 2-hour online CE course that examines informal narcissistic behaviors and the DSM criteria for a clinical diagnosis of NPD.

Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a psychological disorder characterized by persistent patterns of grandiosity, fantasies of unlimited power or importance, and the psychic need for admiration or special treatment. Core cognitive, affective, interpersonal, and behavioral features appear in a pervasive pattern of interpersonal difficulties, occupational problems, and significant psychosocial distress, such as impulsivity, volatility, attention-seeking, low self-esteem, and unstable relationships.

We will examine therapeutic approaches, such as the MOTHER technique, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, in light of the case studies presented. We will discuss how to cope with close relationships in which one partner frequently acts narcissistically or qualifies for a formal personality disorder diagnosis. Having to cope with the narcissistic behaviors shown by someone close can itself be psychologically distressing.

Suicidality and comorbidities in Narcissism and NPD will also be considered. Course #21-57 | 2023 | 38 pages | 15 posttest questions

Click here to learn more about Narcissism and NPD

About the Author:

Louis R. Franzini, PhD, received his B.S. degree in Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh, his M.A. degree in Clinical Psychology at the University of Toledo, and his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh. He then completed a Postdoctoral Fellowship in Behavior Modification at the State University of New York at Stony Brook (now Stony Brook University). Following the postdoctoral program Dr. Franzini joined the Psychology Department at San Diego State University, where he spent his entire academic career. He retired as Emeritus Professor of Psychology. His international academic experience included appointments as Distinguished Professor of Psychology at the Universite Catholique de Louvain, Louvain-le-Neuve, Belgium and Senior Fellow in the School of Accountancy and Business, Human Resource and Quality Management Division at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. Dr. Franzini is licensed as a psychologist in Florida and in California.

Professional Development Resources is approved by the American Psychological Association (APA) to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. Professional Development Resources maintains responsibility for this program and its content. Professional Development Resources is also approved by the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC ACEP #5590); the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB Provider #1046, ACE Program); the Continuing Education Board of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA Provider #AAUM); the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA Provider #3159); the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR Provider #PR001); the Alabama State Board of Occupational Therapy; the Arizona Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners; the Florida Boards of Social Work, Mental Health Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy, Psychology and Office of School Psychology, Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, Dietetics and Nutrition, and Occupational Therapy Practice; the Georgia State Board of Occupational Therapy; the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners – Occupational Therapy; the Mississippi MSDoH Bureau of Professional Licensure – Occupational Therapy; the New York State Education Department’s State Board for Psychology as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed psychologists (#PSY-0145), State Board for Mental Health Practitioners as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed mental health counselors (#MHC-0135) and marriage and family therapists (#MFT-0100), and the State Board for Social Workers an approved provider of continuing education for licensed social workers (#SW-0664); the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker and MFT Board (#RCST100501) and Speech and Hearing Professionals Board; the South Carolina Board of Examiners for Licensure of Professional Counselors and Therapists (#193), Examiners in Psychology, Social Worker Examiners, Occupational Therapy, and Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology; the Tennessee Board of Occupational Therapy; the Texas Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists (#114) and State Board of Social Worker Examiners (#5678); the West Virginia Board of Social Work; the Wyoming Board of Psychology; and is CE Broker compliant  (#50-1635 – all courses are reported within a few days of completion).

Enjoy 20% off all online continuing education (CE/CEU) courses @pdresources.org! Click here for details.

Earn CE Wherever YOU Love to Be!

Healing the Healer – New Online CE Course

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Healing the Healer is a new 1-hour online continuing education (CE) course that discusses what a wounded healer is and provides strategies for cultivating emotional well-being.

Healing the Healer is a new 1-hour online continuing education (CE) course that discusses what a wounded healer is and provides strategies for cultivating emotional well-being.

The goal of this course is to cultivate emotional well-being for anyone who has been on the front lines supporting others. We will examine the four pillars of well-being based on decades of research, and experiment with self-care/compassion strategies to build resilience.

Next, we will learn evidence-based creative self-care strategies proven effective in healing the healer, aligning with the four pillars of well-being. These strategies will be presented to you through description, application, and sharing examples illustrating how each technique may be applied to your own life or to those you work with and support. Links to guided exercises are included whenever possible to provide further enrichment opportunities to explore these self-care techniques. Finally, an ending prompts you to create your own realistic personalized self-care plan. Course #11-49 | 2023 | 23 pages | 10 posttest questions

Click here to learn more about Healing the Healer

About the Author:

Catherine Tyink, BSW, MS, NBCT, is a counselor, grief support specialist, National Board-Certified School Counselor, and writer. Catherine serves as a hospice social worker and is the co-author of Grief Reimagined: 50 Creative Strategies to Build Resilience.

Professional Development Resources is approved by the American Psychological Association (APA) to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. Professional Development Resources maintains responsibility for this program and its content. Professional Development Resources is also approved by the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC ACEP #5590); the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB Provider #1046, ACE Program); the Continuing Education Board of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA Provider #AAUM); the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA Provider #3159); the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR Provider #PR001); the Alabama State Board of Occupational Therapy; the Arizona Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners; the Florida Boards of Social Work, Mental Health Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy, Psychology and Office of School Psychology, Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, Dietetics and Nutrition, and Occupational Therapy Practice; the Georgia State Board of Occupational Therapy; the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners – Occupational Therapy; the Mississippi MSDoH Bureau of Professional Licensure – Occupational Therapy; the New York State Education Department’s State Board for Psychology as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed psychologists (#PSY-0145), State Board for Mental Health Practitioners as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed mental health counselors (#MHC-0135) and marriage and family therapists (#MFT-0100), and the State Board for Social Workers an approved provider of continuing education for licensed social workers (#SW-0664); the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker and MFT Board (#RCST100501) and Speech and Hearing Professionals Board; the South Carolina Board of Examiners for Licensure of Professional Counselors and Therapists (#193), Examiners in Psychology, Social Worker Examiners, Occupational Therapy, and Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology; the Tennessee Board of Occupational Therapy; the Texas Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists (#114) and State Board of Social Worker Examiners (#5678); the West Virginia Board of Social Work; the Wyoming Board of Psychology; and is CE Broker compliant  (#50-1635 – all courses are reported within a few days of completion).

Enjoy 20% off all online continuing education (CE/CEU) courses @pdresources.org! Click here for details.

Earn CE Wherever YOU Love to Be!

Clinical Supervision for Healthcare Professionals

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Clinical Supervision for Healthcare Professionals is a newly updated 3-hour online continuing education (CE) course that outlines best practices in psychotherapy supervision and reviews the structure of the supervisory relationship.

Clinical Supervision for Healthcare Professionals is a 3-hour online continuing education (CE) course that outlines best practices in psychotherapy supervision and reviews the structure of the supervisory relationship.

Topics presented include developmental models of supervision, goals of the supervisory experience, ethics and risk management in the supervision process, using technology in supervision, and diversity awareness training for the supervisee.

The vital and, at times, challenging relationship between supervisor and supervisee is discussed and compared to the therapy relationship. The importance of self-care for both the supervisee and the supervisor is also highlighted.

A review of the type and structure of performance evaluations is included, along with information about successful termination. Although this course is primarily written for psychotherapists, many of the essential facets of supervision apply to other disciplines such as occupational therapy and social work. This information is offered to support those healthcare professionals who wish to increase their competencies as clinical supervisors. Course #31-47 | 2022 | 54 pages | 20 posttest questions

Click here to learn more about Clinical Supervision for Healthcare Professionals

Professional Development Resources is approved by the American Psychological Association (APA) to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. Professional Development Resources maintains responsibility for this program and its content. Professional Development Resources is also approved by the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC ACEP #5590); the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB Provider #1046, ACE Program); the Continuing Education Board of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA Provider #AAUM); the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA Provider #3159); the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR Provider #PR001); the Alabama State Board of Occupational Therapy; the Arizona Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners; the Florida Boards of Social Work, Mental Health Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy, Psychology and Office of School Psychology, Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, Dietetics and Nutrition, and Occupational Therapy Practice; the Georgia State Board of Occupational Therapy; the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners – Occupational Therapy; the Mississippi MSDoH Bureau of Professional Licensure – Occupational Therapy; the New York State Education Department’s State Board for Psychology as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed psychologists (#PSY-0145), State Board for Mental Health Practitioners as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed mental health counselors (#MHC-0135) and marriage and family therapists (#MFT-0100), and the State Board for Social Workers an approved provider of continuing education for licensed social workers (#SW-0664); the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker and MFT Board (#RCST100501) and Speech and Hearing Professionals Board; the South Carolina Board of Examiners for Licensure of Professional Counselors and Therapists (#193), Examiners in Psychology, Social Worker Examiners, Occupational Therapy, and Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology; the Tennessee Board of Occupational Therapy; the Texas Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists (#114) and State Board of Social Worker Examiners (#5678); the West Virginia Board of Social Work; the Wyoming Board of Psychology; and is CE Broker compliant  (#50-1635 – all courses are reported within a few days of completion).

Enjoy 20% off all online continuing education (CE/CEU) courses @pdresources.org! Click here for details.

Earn CE Wherever YOU Love to Be!

Mindful Minutes: Cultivating Awareness in Children

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Mindful Minutes: Cultivating Awareness in Children is a new 3-hour online continuing education (CE) course that provides a deeper understanding of what mindfulness is and how it can help children to develop social and emotional regulation skills, manage stress, and skillfully approach the challenges they face in life.

Mindful Minutes: Cultivating Awareness in Children is a new 3-hour online CE course that examines what mindfulness is and how it can help.

We begin by exploring how the attention of today’s youth is susceptible to increased demands and overstimulation from screen related technology and the idea that children’s attention is a commodity, which can be cultivated and harvested with detrimental effects on their well-being. This leads into a brief discussion on the how, and possibly why, children’s mental health has deteriorated in recent years.

Evidence-based research on the positive effects of mindfulness on children’s social and emotional wellbeing is presented. Five mindfulness skill areas are introduced, followed by ten creative Mindful Minutes skill building techniques. These techniques are shared through description, application, research, and examples of real-life stories, illustrating how to incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine.

Finally, we outline how mindfulness can be fostered through “Try It” Mindful Minutes activities that will support children as they learn how to focus, cultivate self-awareness, regulate emotions, and respond calmly to situations with kindness and compassion. Course #31-45 | 2022 | 53 pages | 20 posttest questions

Click here to learn more.

Mindful Minutes: Cultivating Awareness in Children is an online course that provides instant access to the course materials (PDF download) and CE test. The course is text-based (reading) and the CE test is open-book (you can print the test to mark your answers on it while reading the course document).

Successful completion of this course involves passing an online test (80% required, 3 chances to take) and we ask that you also complete a brief course evaluation. Click here to learn more.

Professional Development Resources is approved by the American Psychological Association (APA) to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. Professional Development Resources maintains responsibility for this program and its content. Professional Development Resources is also approved by the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC ACEP #5590); the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB Provider #1046, ACE Program); the Continuing Education Board of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA Provider #AAUM); the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA Provider #3159); the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR Provider #PR001); the Alabama State Board of Occupational Therapy; the Arizona Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners; the Florida Boards of Social Work, Mental Health Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy, Psychology and Office of School Psychology, Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, Dietetics and Nutrition, and Occupational Therapy Practice; the Georgia State Board of Occupational Therapy; the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners – Occupational Therapy; the Mississippi MSDoH Bureau of Professional Licensure – Occupational Therapy; the New York State Education Department’s State Board for Psychology as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed psychologists (#PSY-0145), State Board for Mental Health Practitioners as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed mental health counselors (#MHC-0135) and marriage and family therapists (#MFT-0100), and the State Board for Social Workers an approved provider of continuing education for licensed social workers (#SW-0664); the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker and MFT Board (#RCST100501) and Speech and Hearing Professionals Board; the South Carolina Board of Examiners for Licensure of Professional Counselors and Therapists (#193), Examiners in Psychology, Social Worker Examiners, Occupational Therapy, and Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology; the Tennessee Board of Occupational Therapy; the Texas Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists (#114) and State Board of Social Worker Examiners (#5678); the West Virginia Board of Social Work; the Wyoming Board of Psychology; and is CE Broker compliant  (#50-1635 – all courses are reported within a few days of completion).

Enjoy 20% off all online continuing education (CE/CEU) courses @pdresources.org! Click here for details.

Earn CE Wherever YOU Love to Be!