5. How to Use Technology to Deliver and Enhance Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

Speakers:
Michael LevinUtah State University
Korena KlimczakUtah State University

Components: Case presentation, Conceptual analysis, Didactic presentation

Categories: Clinical Interventions and Interests, Prevention and Community-Based Interventions, Technology

Target Audience: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Description:
Online technologies that deliver cognitive behavioral and mindfulness-based interventions have been increasing in availability, accessibility, and supporting research. These programs provide practitioners with unique opportunities for client engagement, augmenting therapy’s effectiveness, and reaching clients who otherwise might not access services. However, while 90-95% of ACBS members show interest in such online programs, only 35% are familiar with them, and even less have used them with clients (Pierce, Twohig, & Levin, 2016). This workshop seeks to bridge this gap by providing practitioners with the knowledge and skills necessary to integrate such technology into their clinical work. Practitioners will learn key functions that technology-based programs serve and will review specific programs in depth, positioning them to choose programs and implementation methods best suited to their clients’ needs. In this workshop we will discuss in depth the research supporting the efficacy of online ACT and its potential uses, ACT-consistent programs currently available, and how to use these programs with clients.

Educational Objectives:
1. Explain the current research supporting the use of online ACT programs
2. Describe what online programs are currently available and the key functions they provide (eg, self monitoring, skills generalization, guided mindfulness practice, etc)
3. Identify ways to use online programs in clinical work and strategies to begin adopting them in clinical practice