This three-day interactive workshop equips occupational therapists with the fundaments to increase their competence and confidence in using three evidence-informed interventions for clients with anxiety: assertiveness training, relaxation skills training and exposure therapy. The three components are designed to be independent so that participants can attend one, two, or all three elements, as they wish.
Day 1 of this three-day workshop focuses on the skills and knowledge involved in conducting assertiveness training with clients – particularly those who find themselves behaving in an overly passive manner in their interactions with others. The four basic communication styles (passive, aggressive, passive-aggressive, and assertive) are reviewed, as well as the internal and interpersonal barriers to being more assertive. In a series of presentation segments interspersed with interactive exercises, participants will learn the basics of nonverbal assertive posture, offering opinions, giving and receiving positive and corrective feedback, making requests, and saying ‘no.’ Tips are provided for practicing these skills with clients and planning their application in diverse settings and situations.