Supporting Clients Experiencing Anxiety and Depression

Life is filled with life stressors that are biological, psychological, emotional and relational.  How we respond to those stressors is driven by genetic, biological and environmental factors.  Most individuals will have times that result in depression, feelings of sadness and/or anxiety.  This workshop will define the various types of depression and anxiety and their impact on an individual and their community. There will be an exploration of evidence-based treatments and strategies available to help a person struggling with depression and anxiety including medications and psychotherapeutic interventions.  In addition, there will be a discussion about community resources available to empower and support the clinician and client. 

Objectives:  Participants in this workshop will be able to:

• Discuss the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for anxiety and depression
• Describe the impact of anxiety and depression on the client and significant others
• Explore psychotherapeutic and pharmacological treatment options available to the client
• Explore three community and online resources available to the clinician and client

Presenter: Dr. Mita Johnson

Dr. Johnson has degrees in biology, counseling and counselor education and supervision. She has been a counselor for 30 years, consultant for 20 years, clinical supervisor for 15 years and higher learning educator for 10 years. She holds several credentials including licensed professional counselor, licensed marriage and family therapist, licensed addiction counselor, master addiction counselor, and certified telemental health professional. Dr. Johnson is a core faculty member at Walden University’s School of Counseling MS program. She teaches, trains, and speaks nationally and internationally on numerous topics including ethics, diagnosis, psychopharmacology, and substance use disorders. Dr. Johnson is the President-Elect and Ethics Chair of NAADAC. She is passionate about understanding how psychopharmaceuticals and illicit substances influence the body systemically.

Eligible for 3 hours Certificate of Completion