Networker Where AMCAP Members Share Ideas They Find Helpful in Their Own Clinical Practice

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NNEETTWWOORRKKEERR

ASSOCIATION OF MORMON COUNSELORS AND PSYCHOTHERAPISTS

● Spiritual Focus ● Networking and Outreach ● Research, Theory, and Publication ● Clinical Application ●

AMCAP supports the principles and standards of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. However, it is an independent professional organization which is not sponsored by, nor does it speak for, the Church or its leaders.

In This Issue

President’s Message ……….…….….….….… 1

Feature Article…………….……….….….…..… 2 Turning the Pages of Karen Child Ogden, Marriage and Family Therapist Kimball Eckhardt, B.A., Free-Lance Journalist

New Leadership ……………………………… 8

Member Spotlights ..………………………… 10

Spring Convention 2010 Information and

Highlights …….……………………………… 11

Call for Proposals …………………………… 13 A Message from the President AMCAP President, Rebecca Jorgensen, Ph.D., 2007-2010 Clinician’s Corner ……………………………. 15 Jim Jacobs, M.S.W., L.C.S.W. Barbara Morrell, Ph.D. As we enter not only a new year, but a new decade, I not seen the website yet, it includes online am increasingly reminiscent. Perhaps it’s not just convention registration and payment, a discussion Student Reflections ……………… .…… .… . 21 entering a new time, but also leaving old times, that forum, a members community, and all our April Murdock, B.S. make me reminiscent. We have new convention co- publications. Just these accomplishments are chairs (welcome Kris and Amy), new board members remarkable feats. Having all past journals available, Mentoring Program …………… ...……… ... . 26

(welcome Bill and Mike), and a new Vice President in a searchable format, provides a wealth of and President Elect (congrats Doug and Dean)! information readily available to each of us. What’s Up in Your Area?…………………… 27

In reviewing the last 10 years my first thoughts go to Additionally, the organization has adopted new by- AMCAP Mission Statement ………..…….… 29 the wonderful conventions we’ve had, and the laws, changed our incorporation status so we can Call for Journal Submissions ….……… .… 30 fantastic speakers and dignitaries who’ve joined us. receive charitable donations and collected $5,000

It’s been thrilling to be present to hear President and cash in contributions and countless hours of service. Convention CD Order Form .………..…..… 31 Sister Hinckley, President Monson, Elder Nelson, Since 2004 the asset and cash value of our

Wendy Watson Nelson, Sheri Dew, Elder Morrison, organization has increased 90%. We are in a period Membership Application Form …………… 33 Brigham Young University Vice President Rich of growth and financial stability. AMCAP Leadership ……………….………... 34 Williams, Stephen Covey, Chieko Okasaki, and Pastor Davis, just to name a few. What a list! Each It’s a humbling thing to be part of an organization of these leaders thanked us for our work in the field doing so much to help us, as mental health ,and our efforts as an organization. professionals, stay close to the source of goodness and growth. This leads to a reflection on our mission, I cherish these words from President Hinckley, when one thing that hasn’t changed. Our mission is still to he attended our convention in 1998 with Sister provide information and support to L.D.S. mental Hinckley. Here are his words as quoted in the health professionals. Church News: One thing I truly appreciate, especially in these times "I think it's a wonderful thing that you have this where more open persecution against Latter-day association," he told AMCAP members. ". . . To Saints abounds, is that AMCAP provides a place have you of the Church in this professional field where our faith identity can be safely shared and stand together and work together, and give strength enjoyed, hand in hand, with our career identity. This and support and encouragement, one to another, in safety is because of you, our membership. Without a world where you are constantly under attack, is a

you there would be no shared mission, organization,

remarkable and wonderful thing. The Lord bless you volunteerism, or potential for growth. in your great organization." Spring 2010

http://www.ldschurchnews.com/articles/31400/Sister Thank you for helping keep AMCAP alive and Convention -Hinckley-cited-for-service-to-humanity.html April 1-2, 2010 * growing. Your presence and participation are helping to nurture and strengthen each another in personal Joseph Smith Memorial Building, 9 th Floor Other milestones the organization has crossed in the last ten years is our 30 year anniversary, the and professional ways. 15 E. South Temple, SLC, Utah

beginning development of an advisory council, and *Pre -Convention Workshops, March 31, 2010. Location TBA. the creation of a beautiful new website. If you have Rebecca Jorgensen, Ph.D.

AMCAP ● Spring 2010 ● 1

Turning the Pages of

Karen Child Ogden,

Marriage and Family Therapist

Kimball Eckhardt, B.A.

Feature Article Growing up in Syracuse, Utah, Karen Child Ogden was the seventh

child in a line up of eight. Karen remembers her interest in human –

behavior beginning at an early age. Experiences in her life, specifically

interactions with her parents, gave Karen her first desire to understand

the world of psychology, including asking her mom for a book on human

behavior as a nine year old. Although she does not recall the name of the book, she knows the title had the word “Psychology.” She laughs,

“I am sure I still have that book somewhere.” Karen’s interest in human

behaviors and interactions stemmed from being aware of “family rules”

growing up. Spoken and unspoken family rules are hard for any child

Feature Article Karen Child Ogden, to understand. With Karen's natural interest in wanting to understand

Marriage and Family TheraTherapistpist – human behaviors, curiosity got the best of her, and she started

exploring why and how feelings were created. This curiosity ripened over the years, first leading her to

the field of communication, then leading her to the field of marriage and family therapy, and eventually

leading her to her present endeavors.

Education

Raised in the outskirts of Salt Lake City, it is no surprise that Karen attended the University of

Utah. With a bachelor’s degree in Communication, Karen spent time in advertising. During the time

she worked in advertising, her yearning for understanding human behaviors returned. She was very Feature Article

- aware that she was more concerned with office dynamics than with producing advertising. A professor

and mentor noticed Karen’s drive to understand personality differences and human interactions and encouraged Karen to return to her interest in psychology and relationship development.

Karen later returned to school at the University of San Diego. This training resulted in a master’s

degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. The program was a great fit. Karen adds, “It felt right, I have

been interested in human behavior since a early age,” This would allow her to continue studying behavioral interactions among families. Karen resides in California and is a therapist in Costa Mesa

while a craving for education currently has her working on a Psychology Doctorate degree in Marriage

Feature Article and Family Therapy.

AMCAP ● Spring 2010 ● 2

Turning the Pages of Karen Child Ogden,

Marriage and Family Therapist

(Continued) Kimball Eckhardt, B.A.

Experience

Feature Article Raised in the L.D.S. church, her spiritual values have always been an integral part of her life. Karen

– feels her testimony has positively affected her work as a therapist. She inquires about her client’s

spirituality and beliefs and aims to use it in treatment. Fortunately for her, 90% of her clients are L.D.S. and many of them want spirituality considered in the therapy process. Karen feels delighted in

those instances to share the same belief system, and sees that her clients are working hard to

strengthen their faith. Karen comments, “So many clients will share problems, troubles and fears, and they still manage to find hope through their faith.”

Karen admits it is hard to talk about therapy and the gospel, both of which she respects as sacred

things. Humbly she adds, “My clients have blessed my life and hopefully I have blessed theirs.” Dealing Feature Article

with a spectrum of clients, Karen believes that people are guided to her for a reason. She feels the role – of a therapist is to be a safe witness, someone who can hear someone’s story and their complaints,

and honor client’s feelings and experiences.

“It’s a unique relationship that is fully confidential, which gives them a way to validate

their experience. I am a witness,” she describes.

Karen usually uses three philosophical

underpinnings to conceptualize client struggles

Feature Article and feels healing should include blending the

past, the present, and the future. She tends – to draw on attachment development theories as she feels attachment issues are an

important part of development in early

childhood. Karen also integrates cognitive- behavioral theories into her work, helping her

assess clients’ situations and the impact they

have had on them, and to explore what the connection is between thoughts, feelings,

Feature Article and behaviors. Finally, Karen blends strength-

AMCAP ● Spring 2010 ● 3

Turning the Pages of Karen Child Ogden,

Marriage and Family Therapist

(Continued)

Kimball Eckhardt, B.A.

based approaches to help her clients move forward with hope drawing on their own inner strengths to

help carry them through challenges and/or heartaches. Taking a facilitator role, she also includes

Feature Article

empowering her clients by reflecting back personal strengths she sees, while helping her clients discover

– and build on their own strengths.

Endeavors

Karen participated in the LifeSTAR program in Orange County helping those with compulsive addictions. This work led her to a new journey of helping families talk about the most current influential

topics, such as Internet pornography and challenges communicating and building relationships via the

Internet. Karen desired to continue to help families with these challenges by reaching a broader audience. As a result she co-created three children’s books that addressed the very issues that so

Feature Article

negatively impact family relationships. These books have been receiving media buzz and have become a

– vehicle for parents and teachers to talk to their children about devastating topics in a safe environment.

Karen hired a writer, Danielle Tiano, to join her team to help with her efforts. While Karen visualized

the concept and decided the topics, Tiano takes full credit for the story, characters, and captivating

rhyming. Karen takes the title “Contributor” on all three books. Temptation of a Generation is the

first in the series of her three books, and is designed to help talk about tough topics with children such

Feature Article

–

ure Article

Feat

AMCAP ● Spring 2010 ● 4

Turning the Pages of Karen Child Ogden,

Marriage and Family Therapist

(Continued)

Kimball Eckhardt, B.A.

as Internet pornography. While the dangers are present for all children, the book is directed more

toward tween and teen boys. The book’s starring character is a curious boy named Timmy. With

Feature Article colorful illustrations by Tamara Starr and eye-catching fonts, Timmy stumbles across the easily found

– Internet pornography. In full rhyme he then describes the roller coaster of emotions it would take him

through, how he found courage to talk to someone and what he did to heal. Karen shares, “I love it because it’s the first book that dared talk about it.” The Temptation team visited the St. John's

th th Episcopal School for a reading with 7 and 8 graders and parents. While the parents and teachers

were nervous, the kids were respectful and mature about the topic. “It’s effective”, Karen said.”

The effectiveness of this book led Karen to work on the second book in the series. A topic that like the first, can affect both sexes, but this time geared towards tween and teen girls. A Generation Lost

Feature Article in Translation is a book about cell phone use, overuse and abuse. As pink pops up on nearly every

page, it is evident this book is for girls. With cutsie embellishments and attractive young girls cleverly – illustrated by Starr, the story is about Joy and her four friends; a cheerleader, an artist, a bookworm

and an athlete. Tiano follows suit in rhyming as she tells of how their friendship was maintained primarily

through texting. With the help of a hip mom and stylish big sister these girls learned the importance of

face-to-face conversation. They learn that texting

can be addicting and what use to be simple

conversation can turn to backbiting and competition in friendship. This book teaches young girls not to hide

behind their screen. Karen explains that young girls

Feature Article are susceptible and vulnerable to cell phone overuse

– and abuse and as time goes on it may become more

gender neutral. She continued that the message is a great one especially if they can hear it before they

start using a cell phone. In the dedication of the book

Karen shares, “Nothing can replace a real-life relationship. A kind work spoken face-to-face, a hug

or embrace is far better than living life in a two-

dimensional world.”

Feature Article Karen describes the third book as her favorite. Tiano

AMCAP ● Spring 2010 ● 5

Turning the Pages of Karen Child Ogden,

Marriage and Family Therapist

(Continued)

Kimball Eckhardt, B.A.

and Ogden teamed up with a new Illustrator, Edward

Feature Article

Pollick, to create Don’t Hit Send Just to Fit In. After

– Karen started to see a trend in cyber-bullying, with

numerous cyber-bullying stories making the newspaper headlines, she knew this was a topic that needed to be

addressed. The story of four young kids trying to fit in

both the social world and the cyber world addresses many problems kids of all ages are facing today. In

their desire to fit in these characters either become

victim to cyber-bullying or become the bullies themselves. Through friendship and a magic keyboard, they realize

Feature Article

that cruelty can be devastating and there are better

– ways to feel good about themselves than by tearing others down. Karen adds, “the story demonstrates the

power of words and how hurt people can be by them.”

Empowerment

The Temptation Series has created an opportunity for discussion about kids and people in general

and the use of technology. The series has coined the phrase “I Love Real Time,” which encourages kids to have real face-to-face conversation and meaningful relationships without technology.

Feature Article

Nickelodeon star, Aria Wallace joined the temptation team when she did the “Going Old School”

– Challenge. For 40 days Wallace would not use any form of technology to communicate. Wallace, being personally affected by cyber-bullying, wants to educate other teens of the benefits of communicating in

Real Time. You can find details of her journey at www.temptationseries.comwww.temptationseries.com.... There Wallace states “Teens need to know how awesome it is to actually see emotions rather than an emoticon, and be

able to laugh instead of just saying LOL.”

Karen did her own version of “Going Old School” when she decided to delete her Facebook account.

After spending time on it, she thought, “I should be talking to my family. I was worried about not being in touch, she says, but then I felt such great freedom! It’s been really nice,” she laughs, “I dare you to try

Feature Article it.”

AMCAP ● Spring 2010 ● 6

Turning the Pages of Karen Child Ogden,

Marriage and Family Therapist

(Continued)

Kimball Eckhardt, B.A.

Karen and the Temptation Series have been seen on many media outlets including OC Family, Eliza

Feature Article

Magazine, Dr. Laura and the Reading Corner on Dr. Laura.com, Parenting OC, and U.S.A.

– Weekend. You can find links to TV interviews as well as, the radio interview with Dr. Laura on the

website www.temptationseries.blogspot.comwww.temptationseries.blogspot.com....

As a therapist and mother, Karen is pleased with how the series has turned out, from being a co- contributor, to finding a talented writer and great illustrators, to helping parents and teachers talk about

difficult subjects. She describes the experience as a rewarding one. Karen hopes other therapists will

find these books a helpful tool for their own families and the clients they are in contact with. “As time goes on,” she says, “I feel we will be seeing more and more of these issues showing up in therapy. I am

happy with what these books are doing.” Each book has a detailed information page about the topic

Feature Article

for parents or teachers and the creators are currently working on workbooks that she hopes will be used

– as a curriculum for schools or other organizations. She sees the books as a starting point. While these

topics are hard to talk about, the books are tools to communicate with the tween ages of 8-13. Karen

says, “It has opened a door, but there is more work to be done.”

Karen’s journey as a therapist has been an evolving one. She expresses

that the Temptation Series has been an important part of her incredible

journey. While she describes moments like the Dr. Laura interview and “The Doo Its” episode that will feature the Temptation Series later in

2010 as proud moments, she says the best part has to do with the

Feature Article

positive impact her work has had on her own family. The work and the

– books will go on, but her proudest moment was making the choice to put it

all on hold to have her family first. She shares, "Despite doing good

things in the world, I've realized that nothing compares to doing great things in my own home. This journey has led me right back to the most

important things in my life, and I'm grateful for the lesson".

Kimball Eckhardt, B.A., earned a bachelor’s degree in Journalism, with an emphasis in photography, from University of Wyoming. She currently owns and operates a small photography business where she captures seniors, families, and weddings on film. She is passionate about writing and enjoys freelance opportunities. Kimball loves to spend time with her husband and two sons. Her hobbies include yoga, running, singing, scrapbooking, Feature Article reading, cooking and camping. Kimball can be reached at Kimball_ [email protected].

AMCAP ● Spring 2010 ● 7

New AMCAP Leadership

Election Results

AMCAP’s success depends on quality leadership! We are pleased to introduce to you AMCAP’s latest leadership additions and hope you join us in welcoming them to their new leadership positions!

Dean Byrd, Ph.D., M.B.A., M.P.H., is the President/CEO of Thrasher Research Fund (which provides grants to researchers to seek cures for children’s diseases) and is a member of the Faculty, University of Utah School of Medicine,

with appointments in the Department of Family and Preventive Medicine and the Department of Psychiatry. He is adjunct Professor of Family Studies, also at the University of Utah. He was trained at Spartanburg Methodist College, Brigham Young University, Virginia Commonwealth University and Medical College of

Virginia, Loyola University and the University of Utah. Dean is the author of five books and more than 200 total peer-reviewed journal articles (in mental health

journals as well as law journals) on family-related topics and has served as an

expert witness in court proceedings on family issues in the United States and Dean Byrd abroad. Dean was Professor of the Year twice within the last five years, and loves AMCAP President Elect teaching as well as writing. He continues to see a few patients, mostly pro-bono.

Dean is married to Dr. Elaine Byrd, Professor of Elementary Education at Utah

Valley University, and they are the parents of five children who represent a range of professions from medicine to law, to teaching to public health and safety to computer engineering. Music, photography, and books are center stage in the

Byrd home which continues to serve as a gathering place for students at Brigham

Young University where both Dean and Elaine serve in Church callings. Dean is a convert to the Church—his mother was Chinese Buddhist and his father was Evangelical Southern Baptist.

Doug LeCheminant, M.S.W., L.C.S.W., is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Counseling Program Manager with L.D.S. Family Services. He has a bachelor’s degree in University Studies from University of Utah, and a master’s degree from

Brigham Young University in Social Work. In addition to serving on the executive committee for AMCAP, Doug also serves on the Community Advisory Board for the Salt Lake Area Gang Project and as a board member for Understanding Chemical Addiction Disease, a Salt Lake City, Utah, based group seeking to educate key

community and political leaders about the causes of, and solutions to, drug and alcohol addiction.

Doug hopes to work towards expanding and strengthening AMCAP outside of the Doug LeCheminant United States and Canada. Doug is married to the former Mary Louise Johnson AMCAP Vice President Elect and they have two children. Doug served a full-time proselytizing mission in Seoul, South Korea. He enjoys landscape art and competitive college football (but not

necessarily at the same time).

AMCAP ● Spring 2010 ● 8

New AMCAP Leadership Cont.

Michael D. Adams, Ph.D., is an Assistant Clinical Professor in the Counseling and Career Center at Brigham Young University. Michael first received a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from

Brigham Young University. He then went on to receive a master’s in Couples and Family Therapy and a doctoral degree in Counseling Psychology from Indiana State University. Michael has worked in a child and adolescent community mental health center as well as at counseling centers at Indiana State University and the University of Missouri. Michael currently works with students from Brigham Young University in individual, couples, and group therapy. He serves on the training committee with the Counseling and Career Center and is a clinical supervisor. He teaches classes in

Michael Adams career exploration, study skills, and supervision of supervision. He is a licensed psychologist in the AMCAP Board Member state of Utah. His professional interests include: moral virtues and the practice of psychology, dialogic hermeneutics, systems theories, couples therapy, family-of-origin issues, trauma, depression, eating disorders, group therapy, supervision, perfectionism, multicultural issues, and

philosophy. Michael is married and has five children.

William (Bill) R. Cook, M.S.W., L.C.S.W., is a licensed clinical social worker and counseling supervisor with L.D.S. Family Services, Layton Utah office. Bill received a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Brigham Young University and a master’s degree in Social Work from Arizona State University. Bill recently returned from an international assignment with L.D.S. Family Services as the agency director of the Buenos Aires Argentina office of in the South America

South Area. As a 30 year employee of L.D.S. Family Services, Bill’s career has afforded him the opportunity to interface with many cultures and diverse people. He has assisted in numerous humanitarian relief operations domestically and internationally (Oklahoma’s tornadoes; New York’s Bill Cook 9-11; Florida, Louisiana and Mississippi’s hurricanes; and earthquakes in El Salvador and Peru). Bill AMCAP Board Member has lived and worked throughout the Southwest, in Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, Colorado, and now Utah. He is married to Cindy Taylor Cook, and they have four children and three grandchildren.

Cosette Dawna Rae, M.S.W., N.C.T.M.B., B.C.S.M., has a master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Washington. She is Board Certified in Stress Management (B.C.T.S.) from the National Center for Crisis Management. Cosette is a life coach, counselor and nationally certified massage therapist specializing in assisting clients in their quest for health, wholeness, and recovery from trauma. She is founder and president of Heavensfield Health and Wellness – Life Coaching and Counseling and the founder and executive director of reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery Program, the first treatment program of its kind in the U.S.

Cosette Rae Cosette is a professional speaker addressing issues of abuse, domestic violence, stress and trauma. AMCAP Board Member She is happily married and thrives on co-parenting 10 fascinating children with her loving and supportive husband, Gary.

______

Amy C. Curtis, M.S.W., L.C.S.W., is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Training and Program Specialist for L.D.S. Family Services. Amy has a bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Brigham Young University, and a master’s degree in Clinical Social Work, also from Brigham Young University. Amy has a deep commitment to strengthening marriages and families through therapy and course instruction. Her professional interests also include program development for children’s services at L.D.S. Family Services, and enhancing employee and client training.

On a personal note, Amy has been married for 17 years and has four delightful and active children. Amy Curtis In her spare time, she enjoys snow skiing, reading, travelling and relaxing with a chilled Diet Pepsi. Convention Co-Chair

AMCAP ● Spring 2010 ● 9

Member Spotlights

Kris Plummer, L.C.S.W., received her B.S. in Psychology from Southern

Utah University, and an M.S.W. from University of Utah. Kris currently

works part-time at L.D.S. Family Services and in private practice. In

addition to her counseling career, she has worked as a school social worker in Davis District and as a trauma-on-call social worker at L.D.S. Hospital.

Kris has been an AMCAP member for 15 years, joining back in 1995 as a student. She has served as a member of the AMCAP board and as Vice President. One might think that organizing and chairing AMCAP conventions is Kris’ only “hobby,” as she has chaired or co-chaired several

Kris Plummer AMCAP conferences over the past five years. Her planning and organizing Licensed Clinical 5 stake youth conferences, in San Antonio TX, and in the Japan Social Worker Serviceman’s District, seems to have been good training ground for AMCAP

conventions.

Kris’ “real” hobbies include scrap-booking, card-making, tennis, computer,

travelling and wishes she had more time to do any of these hobbies. She

has lived in Texas, Georgia, Alabama, Missouri, Germany and Japan, moving 21 times during her husband's military career. She is has three daughters, one son, and 10 grandchildren, and resides in Bountiful, Utah, with her husband, Doug.

Dana Templeman, L.C.S.W., is a Program Manager over International Services at L.D.S. Family Services (L.D.S.F.S.) Central Office in Salt Lake City, Utah. She provides consultation to foreign governments regarding the establishment of social policies, procedures, and the implementation of family and children services. Dana also provides training to international Non

Governmental Organizations (NGOs) on assessment, casework management,

and placement of children who are without parental care. Her other

responsibilities include product management, public affairs, media, policy

development, and strategic planning. Dana previous worked as a Director for

the Salt Lake and Boise L.D.S.F.S. agencies.

Dana Templeman Prior to working for the L.D.S. Church, Dana provided Intercountry Adoption

Licensed Clinical services. She has a background in Intercountry Adoption and assisted the

Social Worker National Council for Adoption (N.C.F.A.) with their interactive Hague

compliant web-based training for adoption workers and adoptive couples.

Dana was also a National trainer for N.C.F.A.'s Infant Adoption Awareness

Program (I.A.A.P.). On a more personal note, Dana enjoys spending time with her four adult sons and two grandchildren. Her other favorite activities include traveling, tennis, and reading a good book on a sunny beach.

● ● AMCAP AMCAP AMCAP Winter● ●Spring Spring 2009 2010 2010 ●16 ●20 10

AMCAP Spring Convention 2010

April 1-2, 2010,

Salt Lake City, UT*

*Joseph Smith Memorial Building, 15 East South Temple – 9th Floor, S.L.C., Utah

Pre-convention workshops held March 31, 2010

Convention Co-Chairs: Kris Plummer, L.C.S.W., and Amy Curtis, L.C.S.W.

Faithful in Counsel and Ministry

Keynote Speakers:

Bonnie Parkin, B.S., and James L. Parkin, M.D .

“The In and Out of Personal Ministry”

Presentation Summary: “To minister” is defined as attending to the needs and wants of others. Opportunities to minister are a part of the formal stewardship of our professional responsibilities. These opportunities also come as we spontaneously extend ourselves to others in need. Our impact more often will occur in one-to-one relationships, or in small groups where we can respond to an individual’s specific situation. As we combine our training and experience with our spirit ual knowledge, touching on the spiritual inclinations of those we help, powerful healing can take place. Ministering does not need to be spectacular. As Mother Teresa said, “We do small things with great love.”

Biosketches: Bonnie D. Parkin received a B.S. in Elementary Education and Early

Childhood Development from Utah State University. Prior to her call as General President

of the Relief Society of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, she served on

the general board of Relief Society and was a counselor in the Young Women General

Presidency. She also served with her husband as he presided over the England London

South Mission. Since her release, she served in the ward nursery, and now serves in as a

Laurel Advisor. Dr. James L Parkin received B.S. and M.D. degrees from University of

Utah, and a M.S. from the University of Washington where he did his internship,

residency, and fellowship. He is currently Professor and Chairman Emeritus Department

of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine. He was principal investigator in the

research projector to develop a multichannel cochlear implant for the restoration of

hearing in the profoundly deaf. The Parkins are the parents of four sons.

CE Credits Available

AMCAP ● Spring 2010 ● 11

AMCAP Spring 2010

Convention Fees

Convention Fees* Both Days One Day

Professional Members $ 140.00 $ 95.00 Spouses, Retired Members $ 110.00 $ 75.00 NonNon----AMCAPAMCAP Members $ 170.00 $ 120.00 Students $ 66.00 $ 33.00 Students without Lunch $ 40.00 $ 20.00 NonNon----AMCAPAMCAP Students $ 100.00 $ 50.00

Special Social Hour/Hour/PosterPoster Session Free Event

Early Morning Student WorkshopWorkshop**** Free Event

PrePre----ConventionConvention Fees*** $ 25.00 If Registered for Convention on Thursday/Friday (((March(March 31, 2010) $ 40.00 Pre-Convention Only $ 20.00 Student Rate

*Price includes lunch. **Only for students. Registration required and space is limited. ***University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah. Specific Location, TBA.

www.ldsamcap.org

Check out the AMCAP Website for more information on the convention, for registration forms, bulletin, presenter information, and the convention schedule. See you at the convention!

AMCAPAMCAP ● ● Spring Spring 2010 2010 ● ●23 12

AMCAP Fall Convention 2010 September 30, 2010 - October 1, 2010,* in Salt Lake City, Utah Pre-convention workshops on September 29, 2010

151515 ththth Anniversary of the Family Proclamation

Family ProclamationProclamation:: Spiritual Interventions in PsychologiPsychologicalcal Care

In September 1995, President Gordon B. Hinckley revealed to the world a bold declaration of truth regarding the nature of families. The Family: A Proclamation to the World has become a standard of truth and enlightenment in a world of shifting values and beliefs. At the close of the Proclamation the Prophet gives us a charge, “We call upon responsible citizens…everywhere to promote those measures designed to maintain and strengthen the family as the fundamental unit of society.” As L.D.S. counselors and professionals, the proclamation can be an inspiration for therapeutic interventions that reinforce its basic and profound truths.

Call for Presentation Proposals Share your knowledge and expertise with us! We invite you to submit your ideas for presentations relating to our conference theme above. Presentation options include workshops, panel discussions, plenary addresses and round-table discussions. Hands-on, theoretical, research and application-based presentations are strongly encouraged.

Possible Topics Identifying parenting challenges and promoting healthy families Marriage and Family Therapy Issues: Infidelity, Addictions, Financial Struggles, Divorce, Blended and Extended Families, etc. Helping individuals and families adapt to disabilities, job loss, death, or other difficult circumstances Counseling those who have experienced sexual, physical, verbal, emotional, and/or spiritual abuse Increasing our circles of influence Offering hope and healing to individuals, couples, and families

SubmissSubmissionion of Proposals Proposals should include the following information: 1. Presenter information (affiliation, email, phone, fax, address) 2. Presentation title and format (plenary address, panel discussion, workshop, etc.) 3. Preferred length (60 minutes, 90 minutes, two hours) 4. Presentation abstract (no more than 100 words) and learning objectives for a professional audience 5. Presenter qualifications (100-word biosketch, names of 3 references 6. Specification of audiovisual equipment requested

Proposal Due Date: May 1, 2010. Send Proposals to Kris PlummerPlummer:: [email protected]

AMCAP ● Spring 2010 ● 13 Call for Posters!

Call for posters : We are soliciting abstracts for the AMCAP Spring ConventionConvention 2010 Poster Session . This year’s poster session date and time has not yet been announced.

What is a poster ? Posters are excellent ways to summarize research or single case studies and to present a conceptual model or innovative interventions in therapy. Key iinformationnformation (brief paragraphs, bulleted outlines, diagrams, tables, graphs) is posted on a bulletin board (usually provided by the convention), usually in large print (to make it easier to read). Easels will be available.

Presenters stand by their posters aatt the specified timetime (again, to be announced) to answer questions and dialogue with others who are interested in the content, and often provide handout summaries for interested convention attendees.

To submit a poster for consideration ::: 1. Submit a cover page with the title and names, degrees, professional titles, affiliations, & contact information for each presenter. Contact information should include: address, phone, fax, and email address.

2. Submit a separate page with the poster title and a 250 word abstract of the content of the poster. Ideally, an abstract should highlight the key content that will be presented, research methods (if a research study is the subject of the poster), place this content in context (in terms of what is known/not known) aandnd highlight any key implicationsimplications for practice and/or future research.

3. Submissions can be sent electronically in a Word or Rich Text document by attachment.

Questions can be directed to Dr. Rachel Crook Lyon at 801801----422422422----43754375 or [email protected]. 4. Poster session submissions must be received no laterlater than March 5, 2010 ...

Notification : You'll be notified about the status of your poster by March 12, 2010.

Bonus : The convention fee, including lunch, is waived the day of your poster presentation!

AMCAP ● Spring 2010 ● 14

Clinician’s Corner

The Clinician’s Corner is a section of the Networker where AMCAP members share ideas they find helpful in their own clinical practice. We hope you find these ideas helpful to your clinical practice, and your growth as a professional.

We want to hear from you! AMCAP members are invited to submit their clinical ideas for inclusion in future issues of the Networker. Please send submissions to Kristin Douglas, Editor, at [email protected] or [email protected]. See www.ldsamcap.org for additional ideas from past AMCAP publications.

Note that the opinions expressed in the Clinician’s Corner do not necessarily reflect the view of AMCAP members, officers, AMCAP Networker editorial staff, or officers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Book Review: contributing to inaccurate or incorrect views Reaching for Hope: An L.D.S. of depression. Clients, family, friends, and Church leaders may benefit from the Perspective on Recovering common suggestions, comments, and from Depression approaches within the L.D.S. culture that can

Jim Jacobs, M.S.W., L.C.S.W. make depression worse (just pray harder, L.D.S. Family Services serve more, or sin less, etc.).

Title: Reaching for Hope: An L.D.S. There are several great chapters on helping Perspective on Recovering from yourself and assisting or supporting a family Depression member. The authors really advocate for a Authors: Meaghan Decker and Betsy Chatlin well-balanced treatment approach, and Publisher: Bookcraft (2000) strongly advocate for medication, talk- therapy, and physical activity. Even more, This exceptional book is highly recommended the authors are helpful in advocating that for anyone who works with, or may work with, individuals and family members have realistic L.D.S. individuals struggling with depression. expectations, accept wherever they are at Though the book is primarily directed to as they work on conquering this challenge, women, it contains good and helpful and look for progress in the healing process. information for anyone experiencing The book, in many way lives up to the title of depression, or supporting someone that does.

The book could also be helpful for individuals or clients experiencing depression, as well as for family, friends, and Church leaders.

The authors offer a clear definition of depression, descriptions from those who experience depression, as well as information on how and why depression is experienced.

The authors also identify common treatment approaches to depression. There is a great section debunking myths about depression that might be especially helpful to those who think depression is not “real.” All of this is done in an L.D.S. context, recognizing how L.D.S. culture, faith, and beliefs may be

AMCAP ● Spring 2010 ● 15

Clinician’s Corner (Continued)

perspectives of those who are depressed and working through it, but also the perspectives and experiences of spouses and children. This section is helpful for addressing how depression impacts and affects the entire family. I thought this part of the book was especially proactive and positive, for many books on depression tend to ignore the effects depression has on the family. There is also an added discussion on how trauma, illness, life events, and others things can precipitate depression in someone who is biologically vulnerable. Finally, there is a brief discussion of bi-polar disorder, what it is, and how it is treated.

Reaching for Hope: An L.D.S. Perspective on Recovering from Depression is a well-written book and is easy to read. I believe that clients, families, friends, and Church leaders could all benefit from this book. ______

Jim Jacobs, M.S.W., L.S.C.W., is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and Case Manager of L.D.S. Family Services in Denver, Colorado. He has a Bachelor’s degree from University of Northern Colorado and a Master’s in Social Work

degree from Brigham Young University. He has worked for L.D. S. Family Services for the last 10 years in Utah, Nevada, Florida, and Colorado. Prior to promising that there is hope for those so afflicted. working for L.D.S. Family Services, he worked in Rehabilitation for the elderly, profoundly disabled, traumatically brain-injured, and dually diagnosed

individuals. Regarding Jim’s children he comments, “I have 4 incredibly There are also chapters for support people gorgeous daughters and a dashingly handsome son.” As for his hobbies, he that are helpful. There is a section for loved comments, “I enjoy fencing, playing my saxophone, genealogy, refinishing furniture, and writing.” ones, family members, and Church leaders. These chapters offered real insights into what can be done to assist those struggling with depression. Great suggestions were provided on how to approach those struggling with depression, and how to assist them with their struggles.

The book also has an excellent section on personal experiences. The experiences described by the authors represent common challenges within the L.D.S. culture. I liked that the authors not only chose to include

AMCAP ● Spring 2010 ● 16

Clinician’s Corner (Continued)

As perfectionistic individuals fail to meet their Modifying standards for performance in religious and Perfectionism: Helping spiritual domains, school, work, relationships, etc., they blame themselves and feelings of Clients Teach Themselves inadequacy often become a permanent state of Correct Doctrine self-loathing that causes enormous pain and Barbara Morrell, Ph.D. anguish. This quote describes many of the clients I Brigham Young University have worked with:

“Perfectionists are apt to be especially

“Heresy Seven: There are those who believe familiar with the self-conscious emotions [i.e. we must be perfect to gain salvation. This is . . . a doctrinal shame, guilt, embarrassment, pride] mis-understanding. . . Faithful members of the because they focus so much energy on self- Church will be saved, even though they are far evaluation. Perfectionists do not just set from perfect in this life. . . [Joseph Smith] taught that high, often rigid, standards for themselves in there are many things to be done, even beyond the grave, in a particular domain; they are oriented working out our salvation.” toward the process of evaluation . Life is a Bruce R. McConkie “The Seven Deadly Heresies,” (1980) series of quizzes, tests, and final exams, and

their name is always at the top of the report Understanding Perfectionism card.” (Tangney, 2002, p. 199)

In doing therapy with possibly the most perfectionistic client population in the world— To many perfectionists all things become moral: students at Brigham Young University—I have found Grades, looks, talents, income, etc. reflect their that underlying almost every issue they bring in, righteousness or favor with God. Clients (and clinicians) learn perfectionism from many sources: whether it be anxiety, depression, stress, abuse, eating disorders, pornography, relationship issues, American/Asian/etc cultures that emphasize competition and where worth is based on etc, is a rigid perfectionism that impedes growth and change rather than facilitating it. Julia achievement and success; parental

Cameron wrote: “Perfectionism is not a quest for expectations and criticism; abuse & neglect; etc. the best. It is a pursuit of the worst in ourselves, the Some individuals have a biological predisposition part that tells us that nothing we do will ever be to anxiety or seem to be born with a good enough — that we should try again.” perfectionistic temperament. (Cameron, 2002, p. 120) Perfectionism vs. Eternal Perfection

Within Mormon culture there is a prevalent distortion of the L.D.S. doctrine of eternal perfection that has been addressed by many

L.D.S. general authorities (See articles in reference list by Bruce R. McConkie, Cecil O. Samuelson, Russell M. Nelson, and Jeffrey R. Holland). This distortion is most easily understood in the context of Christ’s commandment “Be ye therefore perfect” in Matthew 5:48 and 3 Nephi 12:48. The footnote to Matthew 5:48 says that the word “perfect” was translated from a Greek

word meaning “complete, finished, or fully

AMCAP ● Spring 2010 ● 17

Clinician’s Corner (Continued)

developed,” which denotes a process of change leader, or church member. I sometimes view my and growth. It is telling that in Matthew, Christ role with perfectionistic clients as helping them to admonishes us to become “fully developed” like teach themselves correct doctrine. The following our Father in Heaven, while in 3 Nephi he says "I are some potential pitfalls for L.D.S. therapists would that ye should be perfect even as I , or you working with L.D.S. clients on spiritual issues. Father in Heaven is perfect.” Though he was without sin, he wasn’t “perfect,” or “complete” Assuming we understand a client’s and “fully developed” until he became a worldview and values because they are resurrected, glorified being. L.D.S. (or another religion) Violating ethics by entering a client’s

L.D.S. doctrine supposes that all individuals will be spiritual/religious world without permission imperfect and make mistakes, which is why Christ’s Alienating a client who is struggling with atonement is central to the plan of salvation. their beliefs and/or affiliation Feeling a deep sense of shame or self-loathing Feeling responsible for clients to make because of perceived deficiencies breeds good choices and becoming another hopelessness and despair, not change and voice of authority growth. Tangey, et al (2002, p. 201) makes a Imposing Mormon cultural ideals or helpful distinction between shame and guilt. “shoulds” on clients because of our own unexamined cultural influences “People experiencing guilt often are motivated to confess, apologize, or atone. In contrast, The following are some possible guidelines to when people feel shame, our key concern is help avoid these pitfalls:

with our self, as a person. Feelings of shame involve a painful negative scrutiny of the entire self-a feeling that “I am an unworthy, incompetent, or bad person.” They feel worthless and powerless, and they feel exposed. As in guilt, feelings of shame can arise from a specific behavior or transgression, but the . . . “bad behavior” is taken not simply as a local transgression, requiring reparation or apology; rather, the offending or objectionable behavior is seen as a reflection, more generally, of a defective, objectionable self.”

I sometimes think of this as a chicken/egg situation. Does American/Mormon culture breed perfectionism or do individuals who feel a sense of inherent “badness” or “worthlessness” project their feelings about themselves onto the doctrine of eternal perfection?

The L.D.S. Therapist’s Dilemma

When we as L.D.S. therapists see that perfectionism or other distortions of L.D.S. doctrine are at the root of or contributing to our clients’ psychological issues it is important for us to help facilitate change as a therapist, not as a teacher,

AMCAP ● Spring 2010 ● 18

Clinician’s Corner

(Continued)

Wait for clients to raise Spiritual/Religious Changing Beliefs (Not just Thoughts) concerns Ask about clients’ beliefs and worldview and Focus on Negative/Perfectionistic beliefs validate their individuality and agency as “learned” and the process of Don’t make assumptions about what clients “unlearning” them: want spiritually and religiously o Normal to reach adulthood with Clarify our role as a therapist, not a doctrinal irrational beliefs, but don’t have to keep believing them. authority Don’t assume we have the answers for o Teaching self “correct doctrine”

spiritual dilemmas Differentiate “behavior” and Follow the client’s lead “achievement” from “personhood”: Ask permission to use spiritual interventions, o Instead of “better” and “worse” even when clients raises spiritual issues think “better off” and “worse off” (positive and negative General Treatment Considerations for Perfectionism consequences) Deepening New Beliefs—From Head to Explore, understand, empathize with feelings Heart: of worthlessness before challenging them: o Use of analogies to understand Challenge is inherently non-validating process of change and growth: Alma’s seed, learning to play the Process fears of change: “who will I be?”; “loss of motivation & achievement;” “what piano, etc.

if I’m wrong?” “what will others think?” o Internalizing in a way that works for Shame vs. Guilt or Remorse: Shame individual clients: Reading, talking, indicates deep-seated negative sense of thinking, writing, praying, feedback self from others. Axis I Disorders: Anxiety and Depression must often be addressed before perfectionism Questions and Feedback to Promote Self- can be tackled Exploration & Understanding

You seem really hard on yourself. How do you feel about that? How does it affect you? How does it help/hurt you to have such high expectations? How does being hard on yourself affect your anxiety/depression?

Is that something you want to work on

changing? Where did you learn to be so self-critical? What are you earliest memories of feeling inadequate? What are your fears of changing? What would you lose? How would things be different? What would you like about that? I’m not sure I understand your guilt for getting B’s. Do you believe grades can make you more or less righteous?

AMCAP ● Spring 2010 ● 19

Clinician’s Corner (Continued)

What do you believe makes a person Okazaki, Chieko, (2002). Being enough , Salt Lake City, UT: important or worthwhile? Bookcraft.

It sounds like you believe in unconditional Robinson, Stephen, (1992). Believing Christ , Salt Lake City, worth for others, but not for yourself. How UT: Deseret Book. fair is that? What gets in the way of believing in your worth? Samuelson, C. O. (2006). What does it mean to be perfect, So you believe that something is wrong New Era , January, 2006, 10-13.

with you because you can’t do it all? That Seligman, Martin, (1991). Learned optimism, NY, NY: sounds very painful. What is it like for you? Pocket Books. How possible is for anyone to do it all perfectly? Why not? Seligman, M. Positive Psychology Website: http://www.authentichappiness.sas.upenn.edu/Default.as (If they raise L.D.S. doctrine of Perfection) px Does L.D.S. doctrine say God expects you

to be perfect right now? Is there anything Tangney, J.P. (2002). Perfectionism and the self-conscious emotions: Shame, guilt, embarrassment, and pride.” In you know that tells you that might not be true? How do you think God sees your G.L. Flett & P.L. Hewitt (Eds.), Perfectionism: Theory, research, and treatment (pp.393-406). Washington, DC: weaknesses? It sounds like you judge APA yourself more harshly than God does. You really hate to be human don’t you? Ulrich, Wendy (2007) Forgiving ourselves: Getting back up Me, too. What is painful about making when we let ourselves down , Salt Lake City: UT: Deseret Book. mistakes for you?

How would you like to see yourself? How Barbara Morrell, Ph.D., is a licensed psychologist and clinical faculty would you like to view your mistakes and member in the Counseling and Career Center at Brigham Young weaknesses? It’s really hard to change University and has a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Brigham

things you’ve believed for many years. It Young University. Assignments in the C.C.C. include individual and can be like fighting a tidal wave. group therapy, biofeedback, training and supervision, teaching and

It seems like you feel caught between the research. Currently the practicum coordinator on the Training

eternal perspective and the worldly Committee, she also serves as liaison to the campus and wider communities around the issue of sexual assault. Although she is a perspective of your worth. What would general practitioner, areas of special clinical focus are treating trauma you like to base your life on? How would and cultural perfectionism. things be different if you did?

References and Perfectionism Bibliotherapy

Burns, David, (1980). Feeling good: The new mood therapy , Signet: New York.

Cameron, J. (2002). The artist’s way: A spiritual path to higher creativity (10 th Edition). NY, NY: Penguin Books.

Dew, Sheri (2004). No one can take your place , Salt Lake City, UT: Deseret Book.

Holland, J. R. (2002). The other prodigal son. Ensign , May, pp. 62-64.

McConkie, Bruce R. (1980). “The Seven Deadly Heresies,” http://speeches.byu.edu/reader/reader.php?id=6770

Nelson, R. M. (1995). Perfection pending. Ensign , November, pp. 86 -88.

AMCAP ● Spring 2010 ● 20

Student Reflections

Students!

This section of the Networker is completely devoted to students! Don’t miss the semi-annual AMCAP

convention every April and every October (just before General Conference). Student prices are great and

there are lots of opportunities to get involved. There is usually a Friday early morning presentation just for

students. This is a special event for students and space is limited, so sign-up early if it is something you want to attend. There are also opportunities to serve in the bookstore. We typically look for three volunteers each day to work in the bookstore from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Volunteers will receive a free lunch the day they volunteer in the bookstore, and have the opportunity to attend AMCAP sessions for free as well. Another great bonus for serving in the bookstore: A one year membership to AMCAP!

AMCAP’s new fabulous mentoring program is another way to get involved with AMCAP. The mentoring

program connects students with AMCAP professionals. So far it has been a great success and we hope you will consider joining this program. If you are interested in signing up for the mentoring program, or seeking more information on it, contact Lisa Leavitt, AMCAP board member at: [email protected].

Another way to get involved with AMCAP is to submit something to the AMCAP Networker. We love to have student submissions. Ideas to consider: a book review, reflection piece, or a theoretical article. Send these AMCAP Networker submissions to the Editor, Kristin Douglas, at [email protected] or [email protected].

If there is any information that you are seeking as a student, want to volunteer at the convention, or want to sign up for the mentoring program, contact or Lisa Leavitt at the email listed above.

Bodywork Meets and others. Perhaps these insights may be

helpful to other students, as well as Psychology well as other practitioners in the field.

Two of my goals in writing this piece are: 1) to April Murdock, B.S. Psychology share some of the lessons I’ve been learning

Holistic Health Practitioner, Relational Somatics in my massage therapy education as I feel

International Professional School of Bodywork, they apply to the client-therapist relationship, San Diego and 2) to bring greater awareness to, and acceptance of, a holistic approach to This was going to be a book review, for after therapy. It is my hope that we each will be all, I’m always reading intriguing psychology- open to exploring different avenues of related literature that I’m excited to share healing, consistent with gospel truths. Please with everyone. However, with time, it allow me a minute to share a little personal became too hard to decide which book to background to set the context for the choose. I eventually settled on writing a following highlights. personal reflection piece. Consider this as an informal type of meta-analysis review of After graduating from Brigham Young highlights from some of the best books and University with a bachelor’s in psychology, I experiences that have influenced me definitely planned to c ontinue my education.

AMCAP AMCAP ● ●Spring Summer 2010 2 ● 21

Student Reflections (Cont.)

However, my schooling took a different route than most traditional academia. I worked with youth in a wilderness therapy program, then for five months in Uganda I taught

English literacy, peacemaking, worked with vulnerable youth, and a variety of other projects including some basic massage therapy classes. I theorized that promoting healthy, healing touch to various populations would do much to improve not only their own physical health, but also their own emotional health, and their interpersonal relationships.

The health workers to whom we presented in Uganda were eager to learn more, and when I returned to the U.S. I decided it was time to finally attend massage therapy school.

Studying massage therapy and the psychology of bodywork in San Diego for the past two years has been the best education for me right now. I use the word “bodywork” me than massage therapy school, which has as an umbrella term to include traditional challenged me to leave the comfort of my modalities of massage therapy such as deep intellectual mind and to be more present in tissue, as well as somatic dance, breath my body. This body connection is something exercises, yoga, tai chi, and structural work. to which I unconsciously spent most of my life Strangely enough, sometimes I have felt that building up a resistance in order to avoid doing academic graduate work at a uncomfortable feelings, all the while gaining university would be a bit easier education for more intellectual knowledge about psychology.

By no means am I meaning to imply that the hours many of you have spent on your theses and dissertations, balancing heavy caseloads and coursework with family, church and other life events have not been challenging—not

my intent at all. But for a perfectionist like me

living in my head and practicing busyness to avoid feeling and connecting, I’ve had some powerful lessons to learn in this non-traditional approach to education and healing through bodywork. Perhaps some of you can relate. This list is not intended to be comprehensive of absolute truths, but rather guidelines that I have found to be relevant in my own and

others’ journeys, consistent with gospel

principles.

AMCAP ● Spring 2010 ● 22

Student Reflections (Cont.)

other forms of bodywork specifically address the physical/emotional dimension and open the way for healing in the whole mind-body-spirit.

3. There is beauty in pain, purpose to silence and darkness. Like plants must grow in

dark soil, we may not see any progress in

our clients or ourselves for a while—but

change is occurring nonetheless (Sue

Monk Kidd has poignant insights on this matter, from her book, When the Heart Waits ). Further, we don’t have to be perfectly whole and healed to be of service to another. In our own pain we

can still reach out to bless and help others.

4. Don’t take things personally. Whether positive or negative, how others relate to

you is not about you but is based on their

own subjective experiences which you can’t control. Some will praise you, but it’s

not about you. After an amazing session 1. Do your own work. The more clear and when a client gushes over how wonderful free we are personally, the more we can you are, it may be easy to feel offer to those who seek our services. overconfident in your abilities and to pat Additionally, no matter how much we yourself on the back. Remember, the

know and can give others, we can’t good Lord gave it to you, so give Him “therapize” ourselves. Admitting reliance the glory! Conversely, some clients will on someone else may be damaging to turn against you, blame, criticize, or the ego when we’ve been trained as even persecute you, but again, it’s not therapists and counselors and hear about you (see Don Miguel Ruiz’s The ourselves telling others the very things that Four Agreements ). Additionally, we a loving or wise friend or counselor tells us in our moment of need. There is a don’t have to take personally and balance between self-reliance and believe the thoughts that come into our heads, either inflating our egos or interdependency.

tearing us down ( Happy for No Reason

2. Healing comes in layers and occurs on by Marci Shimoff). different dimensions. The physical- emotional, mental-intellectual, and 5. Speak your truth without shame or blame. spiritual are the three core layers of being, It is possible to be honest without blaming and we store pain and trauma in any or – indeed, this is a powerful way to take all of them. Having made much responsibility for our actions and feelings progression on intellectual and emotional without assuming someone else’s portion.

levels, someone may still harbor trauma in This principle also includes not shaming or blaming ourselves (see The Fourfold Way the physical body. Massage therapy and by Angeles Arrien).

AMCAP ● Spring 2010 ● 23

Student Reflectio ns (Cont.)

bySince Angeles there Arrien). is discussion about including this in the new Myth DSM, of Self-Esteem it is useful information). Having afor true all love for our clients, shown with clear

6. Be open to outcome, not attached to boundaries, will do much to facilitate the

outcome. Some clients will respond better healing process. In fact, the strong regard

to our efforts and techniques than others. and healthy relationship between client Additionally, being open to outcome will and therapist impacts the therapeutic

allow us more freedom to accept our process as much as the specific modality.

clients where they are at and to be People find growth and healing in a

present in the therapeutic process. If we variety of ways, but having a caring are too attached to the idea of having a mentor and therapist along the way

client, we may unwittingly practice in a makes all the difference.

way that keeps them coming back longer than necessary (again, Angeles Arrien’s There are as many worthwhile books as there The Fourfold Way ). are great practitioners of numerous modalities. AMCAP membership covers a 7. Knowledge does not replace experience. I broad basis of experience and specialties. like to say sometimes, “I’ve got the book Hopefully this “informal type of meta-analysis

smarts, and now I need the lab practice.” review of book highlights” has brought some principles to mind which you can further 8. Our dreams are telling us something. Pay pursue in your practice, both personally and attention to themes and feelings in professionally. Not all clients benefit from dreams. They can reveal much about our bodywork, or perhaps not in every stage of health, unconscious self, and help us their treatment. But if you haven’t considered process feelings and situations. “Your referring your clients to a trained professional dreams are the rest of you,” is the wise massage therapist or bodyworker to work with pun that my teacher James Stewart you as part of your therapeutic team, would shared with our dream class (see Robert you consider doing so? A. Johnson’s Owning Your Own Shadow , and Marc Ian Barasch’s book The Healing Path ).

9. Breathe deeply. Drink water. Repeat. One time when I was massaging my father, I said, “Take a deep breath in.” Almost a minute later, he let out a huge gasp of breath. “Were you holding your breath all

that time?” I asked him. “You never told

me to breathe out,” was his reply. Oxygen and water are life! In deep breathing we

can release much emotion, stress, and burdens.

10 . Love heals . Jesus Christ is the healer, I am a helper. I am a guide and I can love all others. “If we couldn’t love on command, we would not have been commanded to

love” (Ester Rasband, Confronting the

AMCAP ● Spring 2010 ● 24

Student Reflections (Cont.)

Bodywork can be a powerful tool to help April Murdock, B.S., graduated as reach clients in a way that traditional therapy valedictorian of the Brigham Young services might not be able to do. I still love University Psychology Department in psychology, and in addition to doing 2004. She then worked in a wilderness program and served a massage work, I also work with teens at a mission in the Georgia Macon behavioral residential treatment center. This Mission. Her favorite side pursuits this work is helping to prepare me to return to past year have included mentoring a graduate school when it is time. Burmese refugee family each week in San Diego, recruiting volunteers to go with her to a Tijuana orphanage each moth, and Yes, graduate school is calling my name. In finding metaphors for life in her backyard garden. After the meantime, I am continuing to gain she finishes her Holistic Health Practitioner License in wonderful experience that I feel will only massage therapy in fall 201o, emphasizing relational strengthen my skills as a psychotherapist or somatic methods, she plans to move to Thailand to work with refugees and practice bodywork. April also psychologist someday. I’m studying, growing, has a special interest in peacemaking with the Arbinger practicing, and learning to slowly integrate Institute, writing poetry, and international development. the things I am learning into my work with massage clients. I believe when the time comes to continue my education, many of the principles I have discussed above will also carry over into the world of psychology, and my work with more traditional therapy clients.

Works Cited

Arrien, A. (1993). The Four-Fold Way: Walking the Paths of the Warrior, Teacher, Healer and

Visionary. New York, NY: HarperCollins.

Barasch, M.I. (1993). The Healing Path: A Soul Approach to Illness. New York, NY: Penguin Group.

Johnson, R.A. (1991). Owning Your Own Shadow: Understanding the Dark Side of the Psyche. New York, NY: HarperCollins.

Kidd, S.M (1990). When the Heart Waits: Spiritual Direction for Life’s Sacred Questions. New York,

NY: HarperCollins.

Rasband, E. (1998). Confronting the Myth of Self- Esteem: Twelve Keys to Finding Peace. Salt Lake City, UT: Deseret Book. ______

Ruiz, D.M. (1997). The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom. San Rafael, CA: Amber-Allen Publishing.

Shimoff, M. (2008). Happy for No Reason: 7 Steps to Being Happy from the Inside Out. New York, NY: Simon & Schuster.

AMCAP ● Spring 2010 ● 25

AMCAP Graduate Student and

Professional Mentorship Program

For Members and Graduate Students! We have started a student mentoring program for AMCAP members and it is up and running. We hope you will sign up! The program pairs mentors with graduate students in counseling, psychology, social work or marriage and family therapy, to help provide students a place to ask questions of our AMCAP professionals. Many students struggle with how to practice in the mental health field with L.D.S. values. We believe mentoring relationships will help our graduate students learn from the experiences of their future colleagues.

Mentors - this is a great opportunity for you to teach the younger generation what you have learned about mental health practice as a Gospel-centered therapist. Please complete the form below to get involved!

What is it? - Personalized mentoring by professionals in the mental health field - Pairing of graduate students and mentors based on information we receive from you

Who should sign up? - Professionals wanting to help young L.D.S. professionals navigate their careers - Graduate students in the mental health field wanting some guidance and direction for their future careers

What’s the commitment? The commitment level will be up to each mentor and graduate student. Mentors contact each graduate student and make arrangements to meet by email, phone, and/or in-person meetings (twice/year if possible). Mentors can provide answers to questions students may have such as how to begin a clinical practice, how to present at professional conferences, how to publish, how to become more involved in the professional community, questions related to faith and practice, and any related questions students may have. Mentors and students are expected to respect the professional nature of the collaboration. Students or mentors that wish to end the relationship or change mentors/mentees can discuss this with each other and/or the program coordinators.

How to get involved: Email the completed information below to Lisa Leavitt at [email protected] or call ( 801) 425-3490 to sign up today!

Mentor Graduate Student Contact Information (Name, Address, Email, Phone Numbers): ______

If you are a graduate student, please indicate preference to work with a professional who is:

In your local area Anywhere Specific Location - Identify Location : ______

Mentors: What are your mentoring preferences? Graduate Students: What would you want mentoring in? ______

AMCAP ● Spring 2010 ● 26

What’s Up in Your Area?

THE NEWLY FORMED PORTLAND , OREGON CHAPTER OF AMCAP Doug LeCheminant, M.S.W., L.C.S.W.

L.D.S. mental health professionals in the Portland, Oregon area have recently organized and formed an official chapter of the Association of Mormon Counselors and Psychotherapists. Elaine Davis, a Marriage and Family Therapist, and always an organizer, invited a few fellow L.D.S. therapist in the Portland area to meet together to conduct peer supervision and some professional and social networking. Elaine stated that “it felt good to sit with other L.D.S. counselors to discuss our private practice endeavors, how to work with bishops, share information and discuss difficult cases.” She added “it was such an enjoyable experience we invited others to join us and before we knew it, we decided to became an official chapter of AMCAP!”

The chapter began to explore all the possibilities that would benefit the L.D.S. community and support L.D.S. therapists in the region. The next effort centered on becoming a cohesive group focused on the needs of private practice practitioners to be connected and not feel alone in their work. This entailed contacting all the L.D.S. therapist in the area that could be identified and inviting them to a meeting to get to know each other. The next task was to determine what this new chapter of AMCAP would do or not do. Ideas of workshops,

AMCAP ● Spring 2010 ● 27

W ha t’s Up

in Y our A r e a ? (Continued)

marketing, providing professional C.E.U.’s and/or providing professional development were offered. It was noted that there is a well run and very active L.D.S. Family Services in the area that might fill some of those needs. Partnering with this resource was an important piece. Elaine Davis met with Matt Scott of L.D.S. Family Services to coordinate efforts and explore how each group could compliment and serve each other. Elaine stated Matt was very supportive and encouraging. Together they are looking forward to partnering in areas of shared interest.

In the immediate Portland area there are approximately 30 L.D.S. professionals in private practice and even more if the outlying areas are included. As word spreads, more counselors are being located. Within seven months, this chapter has grown from six to sixteen participants. As the group becomes more cohesive and members get more involved, they hope to implement some of the ideas that were suggested in the early meetings. Talk of a “Wellness Weekend” is in the works among some of the therapist.

The Portland chapter of AMCAP is chaired and coordinated by Elaine Davis and meets every two months for 1 1/2 hours along with a 30 minute “meet and greet” social time before the meeting (where delicious Noah’s bagels and cream cheese are served). They visit, share ideas and support each other as they work to help clients in both the general and L.D.S. population in Portland, Oregon and surrounding areas. The future of the Portland chapter of AMCAP looks bright indeed! If you live in the Portland Elaine Davis, M.S., Marriage and Family Therapist area, email Elaine at elainejdavis.com to get involved.

AMCAP ● Spring 2010 ● 28

AMCAP’s Mission Statement

AMCAP’s mission is to provide information and support for the L.D.S. mental health professional in four areas:

1. Spiritual Focus 2. Clinical Application 3. Networking and Outreach 4. Research, Theory, and Publication

As AMCAP members, we strive to center our personal and professional lives upon Jesus Christ by serving our brothers and sisters in need.

AMCAP Website Committee

The AMCAP Website Committee is looking for members to help make AMCAP’s website a more powerful, continuously updated resource. No prior website training or experience is required. ______

We hope over time to build a geographically diverse committee, with members from many parts of the U.S., and of the world. We are striving to

create a frequently-updated, continuously expanded site “to provide information and support” to all AMCAP’s members world wide. We also seek to create and share resources that can help priesthood leaders, individuals and families, counselors and others searching online to find reliable, gospel-centered information to help resolve emotional challenges.

Requirements for service: • Two or more hours of availability per month (commitment time varies) • Current AMCAP membership - Professional, student, associate, or international • A desire to extend AMCAP’s visibility and power for good. • Basic computer and internet skills - basic MS Word, email, email

attachments

• A willingness to learn new skills

If you are willing to serve, please email us: [email protected]

AMCAP ● Spring 2010 ● 29

Call for Submissions to

Issues in Religion and Psychotherapy

Dear Colleagues,

Issues in Religion and Psychotherapy is a peer-reviewed journal published by

AMCAP. The journal is an outlet where professionals of all religious and cultural

backgrounds can submit their writing and research on a broad range of topics

relative to religion, spirituality, and/or psychotherapy. As Editor of Issues in

Religion and Psychotherapy , I am pleased to invite you to submit a manuscript for our next journal.

Appropriate manuscripts may be based on unpublished dissertations or theses, literature reviews, clinical case reviews, research reports, scholarly commentary, theoretical or descriptive clinical practice articles, or book reviews. If you have presented at a professional convention, please consider reformatting and submitting your presentation as a scholarly article.

For more information on article submission details for Issues in Religion and Psychotherapy , please visit the publications webpage at www.ldwww.ldsamcap.org samcap.orgsamcap.org.... I look forward to hearing from you! Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or concerns: [email protected].

AMCAP ● Spring 2010 ● 30

AMCAP C.D. Order Form Fall Convention 2010 Cultivating Calm in Troubled Times October 11----2,2, 2009

All presentations are on CD for this convention. (Some handouts are also included).

CHECK TOPIC PRESENTER(S) # OF CDS HERE 1. “Peace, Be Still”: Finding the Rest of the Michael S. Buxton, Ph. D., and Lord Phillip McLemore, M. Ed. 2. Spiritual Transformation: Principles and N. Lee Smith, M.D . Processes 3. Christian Meditation Training Pamela Mayes, Ph. D.

4. Whispering From Withi n – Creating and Cheri L. McDonald, Ph. D., Achieving Your Ideal Self L.M.F.T. 5. _ The Workbook for Women: A Therapeutic Shirley E. Cox, D.S.W., Doris Treatment Tool – Dant, and Laurie Forbes 6. These Are Great Days: Peace and Growth Lili Anderson, L.C.S.W., Ph. D., Through Struggles and Christian Anderson, L.C.S.W. 7. Stronger Together: Healing Marriages Mark Chamberlain, Ph. D.

Damaged by Pornography 8. “Carest Thou Not That We Perish? When Chris Packard, M.C., L.P.C. Each Moment So Madly is Threat’ning…” Finding Strength and Peace in Tumultuous Times 9. The Remaking of a Birthright: Claiming the Wendy Ulrich, Ph. D. “Rights of Fathers” When We Have Inherited Lies 10. “Should Marriage be Reserved for a Man and A. Dean Byrd, Ph. D ., M .B.A., a Woman? Considering Research and M.P.H., Dianne Nielsen, Ph. D., Religion” Lynn D. Wardle, J.D., J. Douglas LeCheminant, L.C.S.W., Moderator 11. San dplay, Autism, and Asperger’s Disorder Pamela Mayes, Ph. D. 12. Systematic Utilization of the Atonement to Michael Evan Blair, M.S., L.M.F.T. Replace Negative Feelings 12. “6 Cylinder Living”: A Multi -Dimensional Carol C. Ramsay -Scott, L.C.S.W. Conceptual Framework for Providing Empowerment for L.D.S. Clients 14. Forgiveness in a Therapeutic Context Russell C. Gaede, Psy. D., L.P.C.

AMCAP AMCAP ● Summer ● Spring 2009 2010 ● ●54 31 15. The Civilization of the Natural Man: Russ Seigenberg, Ph. D. Improving Impulse Control and Self- Discipline

16 . When Therapy Doesn’t Work Cary L. Shelton, L.C.S.W.

16. Spiritual Roots and Resources: Addiction John P. Livingstone, Ed. D. and Other Agency Issues 18 . Therapis t Self -Care in a Helping Profession Russell C. Gaede, Psy. D., L.P.C., with Susan Reynolds, L.P.C.

Payment Information

Members: $ 120.00 for complete set or $8.00 per presentation

Non-Members: $ 150.00 for complete set or $10.00 per presentation

No. of Individual CDs or CD sets: ______

Total due: ______

Name: ______Address: ______City/State/Zip: ______Phone: ______Email: ______

Send payment to:

AMCAP

702 West 3600 South

Bountiful, UT 84010

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (801) 425-3490

You may also pay with a credit card, cash or check.

Name on credit card: ______

Expiration Date: ______

Card # ______

AMCAP ● Spring 2010 ● 32

AMCAP MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION OR RENEWAL FORM 01-2008

New Membership Renewal Application – AMCAP #______Please send me a copy of the Bylaws (also located on the website)

First Name Initial Last Name Home Phone

Home Address City State Zip Code

Highest Degree Current License Type License #

I am applying for the following membership category: Professional Member $ 60.00 annual fee $750.00 lifetime Student Member $ 30.00 annual fee Retired Member $ 30.00 annual fee International Member (available outside the U.S. and Canada $ 30.00 annual fee only) Associate Member (non-voting) Bishop Other Institution (single, non-voting representative) $ 60.00 annual fee Total $

Employer

Work Address City State Zip Code

Work Phone Position

Fax Number Email Address Website Address

Specialties

Please send mail to my work address Please send mail to my home address I am currently providing therapy to individuals. I am not currently providing therapy to individuals.

**Please circle any of the above information that you DO NOT WANT included in the QAMCAP directory or the QInternet Directory. **AMCAP occasionally (1-2 times per year) is contacted with a request to use our membership list as a way to contact L.D.S. therapists to request their participation in research. This research is typically based on spirituality topics or need for a religiously based subject group. If you are willing to have your name released for such purposes, which often helps students complete thesis and dissertation projects, please indicate by checking yes here: ____ Yes, I am willing to be contacted with a request to consider participation in research.

As a member of AMCAP, I agree to support the purposes and ethical guidelines of AMCAP as stated in the Bylaws. The above information is accurate to the best of my knowledge.

Applicant’s Signature: ______

Name on Credit Card: ______

Expiration Date: ______

Card #: ______

Send application and fees to: AMCAP, 702 W 3600S, Bountiful, UT 84010 You may also register online at www.amcapstore.com or fax to 801-931-2010

You may pay with a credit card on our website or send the form with credit card information to the address above.

AMCAP ● Spring 2010 ● 33

AMCAP Leadership

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE ASSISTANTS TO THE BOARD OPEN POSITIONS (Continu ed) Rebecca Pack Jorgensen, Ph.D. Rachel E. Crook Lyon, Ph.D. – from helping with leadership responsibilities to helping with the President AMCAP Journal – Editor Spring 2007 – Spring 2010 [email protected] conventions to helping with [email protected] publications, and several things in Kristin I. Douglas, M.A., L.P.C., between. If you are interested in B.C.B. volunteering for AMCAP, please Shane Adamson , L.C.S.W. Vice President AMCAP Networker – Editor contact AMCAP Board Member - Spring 2007 – Spring 2010 [email protected] Bill Cook, at [email protected] [email protected] Lane Fischer, Ph.D.

AMCAP Journal – Associate Editor Dean R. Bender, C.P.A., M.A., WHAT IS THE NETWORKER ? Intern - M.F.T. [email protected] The AMCAP Networker is an official Treasurer publication of the Association of [email protected] John Rector, Ph.D. AMCAP Journal – Associate Editor Mormon Counselors and [email protected] Psychotherapists. It is published twice/year. Subscriptions are free to EXECUTI VE SECRETARY AMCAP members. Andrea Davis REPRESENTATIVES TO THE Executive Secretary Note that opinions expressed in the [email protected] BOARD Networker do not necessarily reflect the view of AMCAP members, officers, Jan Scharman, Ph.D. General Authority Representative AMCAP Networker editorial staff, or officers of The Church of Jesus Christ BOARD MEMBERS [email protected] of Latter-day Saints. Michael Adams, Ph.D. [email protected] COMMITTEE CHAIRS Submissions are welcome. Send all submissions via mail or email to Amy Curtis, L.C.S.W. A. Dean Byrd, Ph.D., M.B.A., Kristin Douglas, Editor . Please also M.P.H. Spring 2010 Convention Co-Chair include author contact information. President Elect [email protected] [email protected] Kristin Douglas, M.A., L.P.C., B.C.B. Robert L. Gleave, Ph.D. Laramie County Community College Bill Cook, L.C.S.W. Publications Committee Chair Counseling and Campus Wellness Volunteer Development [email protected] 1400 East College Drive [email protected] Cheyenne, WY 82007-3299 John Livingstone, Ed.D. W: 307- 778-1311 H: 307-638-2129 LoriLee Critchfield, Ph.D., D.A. CE Committee Chair [email protected] Donor Outreach [email protected] [email protected]

[email protected] Kris Plummer, L. C.S.W. Cosette Dawna Rae, M.S.W. Spring 2010 Convention Chair [email protected] [email protected]

Lisa M. Leavitt, Ph.D. Conventions OPEN POSITIONS Student Mentoring Website Committee Chair [email protected]

Historian

Doug LeCheminant, L.C.S.W. Vice President Elect Student Representative [email protected]

Volunteers – Various Committees: Dianne Nielsen, Ph.D. AMCAP relies on great volunteers for Continuing Education its success as an organization. There [email protected] are a variety of ways to provide service

AMCAP ● Spring 2010 ● 34