The Role of Nutrition in the Treatment of Mental Health Challenges
with Valerie Byrne, LMFT
Let's come together to explore the myriad ways that nutrition impacts brain health. New and exciting information is coming out all the time that points to the impact of diet on emotional well-being. The gut/ brain connection is increasingly validated in scientific studies, and people are jumping on the bandwagon, looking at food as medicine. Unfortunately, there is a general depletion of the overall nutritional value of conventionally grown foods and toxic additives like sugar, dyes and preservatives, as well as pesticide/ herbicide residue are taking their toll on the mental health of our nation. The good news is that simply eating more real food can have dramatic benefits that can result in detoxification and mood stabilization. Depression, anxiety, panic disorder, ADHD, and mood disorders have all been shown to improve with changes in diet, nutritional supplements, and other non-pharmaceutical interventions such as herbal remedies.
We will discuss the ethical considerations of recommending specific nutritional approaches or supplements to our clients. Should it remain outside the scope of practice for therapists to give nutritional information when it could result in the improvement of the mental health of our clients? Given that the link between nutrition and mental health has more scientific validity than ever before, should we continue to adhere to the current ethical guidelines, or work towards updating our profession in this respect, and where do we draw the line?
Learning Objectives:
- Attendees will learn three basic reasons why nutrition is an important consideration when diagnosing and treating mental health challenges.
- Attendees will learn three mechanisms by which mood disorders and other mental health challenges can be the result of nutritional deficiencies or exposure to toxins in the food supply.
- Attendees will be able to identify at least five specific foods that are beneficial to mood and brain health.
- Attendees will come away with at least three points of view to guide them when considering the ethical ramifications of introducing nutritional approaches to their clients.
About the Presenter:
Valerie Byrne, LMFT offers attachment and mindfulness based approaches for Self-awareness and emotional and spiritual well-being. Specializing in treatment of mental health challenges with a holistic mindset that honors body, mind and spirit, Valerie chose to earn her counseling degree at the Institute of Transpersonal Psychology because of her long time participation in 12 step programs and deep fascination with spiritual growth and connection as a path to wellness. Valerie has a private therapy practice in Aptos and can be reached by email, vbyrne@rocketmail.com, through her website, valeriebyrne.com or by phone 831.251.2924.
Morning schedule:
Doors Open at 9:00 am for sign-in. Coffee and Refreshments served
Presentation 9:30 am to 11:00 am
Optional Networking 11:00 to 11:45
Continuing Education: Course meets the qualifications for 1.5 hours of continuing education credit for LMFTs, LCSWs, LPCCs, and/or LEPs as required by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. Course completion certificates will be available to attendees at the end of the presentation.
The Santa Cruz Chapter of CAMFT is approved by the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists to sponsor continuing education for LMFTs, LCSWs, LPCCs, and/or LEPs. The Santa Cruz Chapter of CAMFT maintains responsibility for this program/course and its content. (Provider #62284)
Cancellation policy: There will be no cancellation refund for this program.
Special Accommodations: The Santa Cruz Chapter of CAMFT is committed to providing a presentation that is accessible to all who wish to attend. If you have a special need and plan to attend, please notify us at president@santacruztherapist.org or 831.429.7786. Requests must be made one week in advance.
Grievances may be filed with the SC-CAMFT at president@santacruztherapist.org or 831.429.7786.
For any questions please contact the president@santacruztherapist.org or 831.429.7786.