Learning Objectives

• To understand the history and development of trauma-related conditions and PTSD in first responders
• To facilitate recognition of empirically-supported, “gold standard” treatment of PTSD, and how principles can be applied in clinical settings
• To provide clarification and awareness regarding contextual, cultural and occupational factors that are unique to first responders
• To identify issues related to the impact of first responder mental health problems on family systems

Intended Audience

This workshop will be most useful for clinicians with a basic understanding of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. While there will be a brief review of diagnostic criteria, the workshop will address those with an existing knowledge base who are interested in developing greater clinical skill and understanding related to the first responder population.

Format and Schedule

This workshop will use a combination of didactic instruction and case presentation to address the following subject areas:

• A brief review of the changes from DSM-IV to DSM-5 relative to the diagnosis of PTSD
• Clinical considerations when addressing complex trauma and PTSD, including issues related to dissociation and how to manage this clinically
• The importance of assessing and monitoring symptoms of PTSD throughout the treatment process
• Client engagement and how this relates to the occupational culture of the first responder
• Occupational issues of the first responder, and how these relate to initial occupational screening and career trajectory
• A discussion of the impact of first responder careers on the first responding family and how to conceptualize work with the individual in the context of the family

Presenter

Dr. Megan McElheran is a Clinical Psychologist and the CEO of Wayfound Mental Health Group, based in Calgary, Canada.  She completed graduate training at the Palo Alto-Stanford University Clinical Psychology Consortium, during which she obtained specialized training in the treatment of PTSD through the US Veterans Affairs National Center for PTSD in Menlo Park, CA.  

Her clinical practice involves work with active-duty members of the Canadian Forces, members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, municipal police officers, firefighters, medical personnel, and others who are directly or vicariously impacted by traumatic events. Dr. McElheran is regularly engaged in speaking events, both locally and internationally. She completed a TEDx speech in 2011 related to Trauma, Change, and Resilience and is the developer of the Before Operational Stress (BOS) program, a resiliency-based intervention program for public safety personnel and frontline workers.   

Cancellation and Refunds

Cancellation and refunds may be applied for by email or phone call to the PAA Continuing Professional Development Officer. Cancellations received fourteen (14) days prior to the Continuing Professional Development activity will receive a full refund of the registration fee, less a $35.00 + GST processing fee. PAA reserves the right to cancel any activity, in which case a full refund of the registration fee will be provided.

Continuing Education Credits

The Psychologists’ Association of Alberta (PAA) is approved by the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA) to offer Continuing Education (CE) for psychologists. This workshop is offered for Six (6.0) hours of CE Credit. Full attendance at the workshop is required to receive Continuing Education Credits. Partial credit will not be awarded, and late arrivals or early departure will preclude awarding of Continuing Education Credits. PAA maintains responsibility for the program.