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 2 of this three-day workshop focuses on the nature of stress and anxiety, the point at which anxiety becomes an anxiety disorder, and training in a set of relaxation therapy skills to assist clients in managing their own stress response. The emphasis is on diaphragmatic breathing training, progressive muscle relaxation (PMR), and passive relaxation. Participants will experience each of the techniques themselves and engage in practice simulation in dyads and receive feedback and recommendations on technique.