Through several clinical vignettes and experiential exercises, this workshop explores an empirically-tested cognitive behavioral approach for working with populations diagnosed with complex post-traumatic stress disorder and substance abuse. Typically, this population falls through the cracks because clinicians lack the skills in addressing these simultaneous disorders. Differentiation between simple and complex PTSD along with attachment theory will broaden our perspective on psychic trauma. Although CBT treatment is focused, concepts including psychic trauma, empathy, dissociation and re-enactment will give clinicians permission to co-construct new and different narratives with trauma survivors.

Valerie Bryant, Ph.D, BCD has over 20 years of psychoanalytic practice working with individuals, groups, couples and families. She is a tenured professor and Assistant Chair in the Department of Social Work at Kean University and is a supervisor/consultant to various social service agencies. Her expertise includes childhood trauma, cultural issues and motivational interviewing. She has a Certificate in Psychoanalysis and completed post-graduate trauma coursework at the Manhattan Institute for Psychoanalysis. She lives in Brooklyn, New York.

For more information about clinical supervision and reading groups:
contact Dr. Joan Lipton 718 499-6798.