Synopses & Reviews
In recent years, mindfulness and acceptances-based therapies have gained immense popularity in the field of behavioral health. And as these therapeutic models have proliferated, their teachings and practices have been introduced to a wide range of diverse applications. Cognitive behavioral approaches often rely on a clients values as a catalyst for treatment. But because values are often culturally biased, it can be difficult to apply the same techniques to clients from different cultural and ethnic backgrounds. Thats why multicultural competency training for mental health professionals is so important. Mindfulness and Acceptance in Multicultural Competency presents a contextual approach to sociocultural diversity in both theory and practice.
In this book, author Akihiko Masuda examines the cultural competency and cultural adaptation of three major therapeutic models based in mindfulness and acceptance: dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). Readers will learn how to translate these treatment models to other language communities, and how to tailor therapeutic approaches to address a number of cultural factors, including religion and spirituality, social stigma, and prejudice. Written for professionals, students, and practitioners, this book offers solid data and research that shows how innovations in acceptance and mindfulness therapies can be directed for the health and wellness of all people, no matter their race, creed, or cultural background. The book includes contributions by Lynn McFarr, PhD, Holly Hazlett-Stevens, PhD, Michael P. Twohig, PhD, Jason Lillis, PhD, Michael Levin, MA, and Jason Luoma, PhD.
The Mindfulness and Acceptance Practica Series
As mindfulness and acceptance-based therapies gain momentum in the field of mental health, it is increasingly important for professionals to understand the full range of their applications. To keep up with the growing demand for authoritative resources on these treatments, The Mindfulness and Acceptance Practica Series was created. These edited books cover a range of evidence-based treatments, such as acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), compassion-focused therapy (CFT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) therapy. Incorporating new research in the field of psychology, these books are powerful tools for mental health clinicians, researchers, advanced students, and anyone interested in the growth of mindfulness and acceptance strategies.
Review
Acceptance and mindfulness [methods are] drawn from multiple cultures around the world. That is a part of what makes this work so relevant to cultural issues on the one hand, and in need of culturally competent application on the other. This ground-breaking volume walks through both sides of this issue in a way that will uplift, energize, and empower practitioners. Highly recommended."
Steven C. Hayes, PhD, codeveloper of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)
Review
Mindfulness and Acceptance in Multicultural Competency addresses challenges in the application of mindfulness- and acceptance-based interventions to diverse groups. The emphasis throughout the book is on the principles of these approaches rather than on their topographical or surface characteristics. There is a breadth of topics, including cultural issues, such as cultural competence and cultural adaptation of interventions, as well as sociocultural issues, such as discrimination, prejudice, stigma, and minority status.
This book provides a useful conceptual framework to guide research and clinical practice.”
Gordon C. Nagayama Hall, professor of psychology and director of clinical training at the University of Oregon
Review
Most therapists aspire to be culturally competent, but what does this mean for those using mindfulness and acceptance-based treatments? Are these interventions effective with diverse groups? Should they be adapted to reduce cultural bias? If so, how? Can clinicians use mindfulness- and acceptance-based methods to improve their own cultural competence? Fascinating and practical, this book provides compelling answers to these and other important questions.”
Ruth Baer, PhD, professor of psychology at the University of Kentucky and editor of Mindfulness-Based Treatment Approaches
Review
"It is rare to find a book on behavioral analysis that successfully incorporates theory and clinical utility. The ABCS of Human Behavior does, indeed, succeed. Ramnerö and Törneke provide the reader with a concise description of ideas dating back to Skinner as well as more recent treatments of such complex issues as understanding cognition. This engaging book will provide scholarly and practical information that is a must read for clinicians and students from all theoretical backgrounds."
—Christopher R. Martell, Ph.D., ABPP, clinical associate professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences and psychology at the University of Washington and author of Depression in Context
Review
"Along with the explosion of interest in newer psychotherapies such as ACT, behavioral activation, DBT, FAP, and mindfulness/acceptance/meditation based interventions, many clinicians who were not extensively trained in behaviorism want a deeper understanding of the fundamental behavioral processes and theory that that underlie these treatments. Up to now, this basic information was buried and dispersed in an array of textbooks, philosophical and theoretical treatises, and an extensive laboratory-based experimental literature. Ramnerö and Törneke have distilled the essentials of this (often) esoteric literature in a clearly written, comprehensive, up-to-date book that frequently illustrates the abstract principles with clinical applications. Operant conditioning, respondent conditioning, exteroceptive conditioning, stimulus control, establishing operation, functional analysis, relational framing, negative versus positive reinforcement, are a just a few examples of the concepts that are demystified, made understandable, and clinically relevant. The book is an ideal basic text for graduate students learning about behavioral psychotherapy (the author’s name for the new treatments mentioned above) and will fulfill the needs the experienced clinician who wants a deeper understanding of these therapies."
—Robert J. Kohlenberg, professor of psychology at the University of Washington
Review
"The authors combine advanced discussions about learning theory and behavioral analysis with straightforward and informative examples. The book also discusses the more recent theoretical developments within the fields of human language and cognition. Both beginners and experienced therapists will find much to learn from reading this book."
—Lennart Melin, Ph.D., professor of clinical psychology at Uppsala University in Uppsala, Sweden
Review
“This book fills a very important gap in the training of most mental health professionals. Carefully researched, well organized, and wonderfully practical, it will help any clinician who recognizes the importance of spirituality and religion in most people’s lives yet feels uncertain of how to approach these issues in psychotherapy.”
—Ruth Baer, PhD, professor of psychology at the University of Kentucky and author of The Practicing Happiness Workbook
Review
“Spiritual and religious competency is a foundational skill for clinicians, but has typically received much less attention than it deserves. This book thoughtfully engages key issues and provides clinicians with up-to-date resources and strategies for building this core skill.”
—Willoughby Britton, PhD, assistant professor of research in the department of psychiatry and human behavior at the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University
Review
“If you’re a psychologist or clinician, put
Spiritual and Religious Competencies in Clinical Practice on your list of must-read books. It will be your guide to helping clients access the religious and spiritual resources—like coping skills or social support—available for their treatment or recovery. Keep it close and refer to it often!”
—Christine Carter, PhD, author of The Sweet Spot and Raising Happiness
Review
“If you are unaware of the spiritual dimensions of healing, your competence will be seriously compromised. This is a must-read manual for therapists, healers, doctors, nurses, or anyone in the healing professions.”
—Deepak Chopra, MD
Review
“This critical resource takes a deep look at the self-insight, knowledge, and skills that clinicians need to have in working with clients of varying spiritual and religious identities. Unlike vague advice to be open and empathic, this book relies on research and provocative clinician experiences to highlight specific recommendations to take seriously psychologists’ oft-ignored requirement to respect and take seriously clients’ diverse spiritual and religious identities.”
—Adam Cohen, associate professor of psychology at Arizona State University
Review
“This is a much-needed contribution that significantly raises awareness of religious and spiritual dimensions of clients’ lives, highlights client resources that can be drawn upon, and expands the diversity discussion in a thoughtful and inclusive way. I would recommend this book for every therapist.”
—Brant Cortright, PhD, professor of psychology at the California Institute of Integral Studies and author of Psychotherapy and Spirit and Integral Psychology (SUNY Press)
Review
“One of the major developments in psychology and medicine in recent decades is the realization that spiritual and religious practices can have major positive influences on health and longevity. These findings, buttressed by thousands of studies, are now largely accepted as part of the canon of medical science. These practices are not handed down from on high, but can be taught by professionals who are competent to do so. The development of these competencies is what this breakthrough book is all about.
Spiritual and Religious Competencies in Clinical Practice is a doorway toward a more empathic, compassionate, and effective form of healing. This book is of value not just for mental health professionals, but for practicing physicians as well.”
—Larry Dossey, MD, executive editor of Explore: The Journal of Science and Healing and author of One Mind
Review
“Aimed at clinicians, this is also a quietly profound and transformational book. It draws readers into a heartfelt engagement with their own deepest questions and longings while offering many practical guidelines and suggestions for skillful, effective work with diverse spiritual, religious, and existential issues. Unique, and destined to be a classic in the field.”
—Rick Hanson, PhD, author of Buddha’s Brain
Review
“Grounded solidly in research, Vieten and Scammell do a masterful job of applying general multicultural competence issues involving therapist attitudes, knowledge, and intervention strategies to the spiritual and religious domains. A must-read for all mental health professionals, but especially those who find their commitment to diversity most challenged by clients’ spirituality and religiousness.”
—Peter C. Hill, PhD, Rosemead School of Psychology, Biola University
Review
“In this revolutionary book, Vieten and Scammell open our eyes to the power of the sacred in the therapeutic encounter, enabling client and clinician to find purpose, healing, and joy in the individual’s religious and spiritual convictions.”
—Dacher Keltner, professor of psychology at the University of California, Berkeley; director of Greater Good Science Center; and author of Born to Be Good: The Science of a Meaningful Life
Synopsis
Mindfulness and Acceptance in Multicultural Competency explores the nuances of applying acceptance and mindfulness therapy to clients from diverse cultural and ethnic groups. This book addresses the question of whether acceptance and mindfulness treatments such as acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) can be applied equally to different cultures, what kind of adjustments are necessary when applying these techniques, and discusses how values are often culturally biased and individualistic.
Synopsis
Religion lies at the heart of many clients' core values, and helps shape their perception of themselves and the world around them. In Spiritual and Religious Competencies in Clinical Practice, two clinical psychologists provide a much-needed, research-based road map to help professionals appropriately address their clients spiritual or religious beliefs in treatment sessions. This book is a must-read for any mental health professional.
Synopsis
Religion lies at the heart of many clients' core values, and helps shape their perception of themselves and the world around them. In this book, two clinical psychologists provide a much-needed, research-based road map to help professionals appropriately address their clients’ spiritual or religious beliefs in treatment sessions.
More and more, it has become essential for mental health professionals to understand and competently navigate clients' religious and spiritual beliefs in treatment. In Spiritual and Religious Competencies in Clinical Practice, you’ll find sixteen research-based guidelines and best practices to help you provide effective therapy while being conscious of your clients' unique spiritual or cultural background.
With this professional resource as your guide, you will be prepared to:
- Take a spiritual and religious history when treating a client
- Attend to spiritual or religious topics in a clinical setting
- Hold clear ethical boundaries regarding your own religious or spiritual beliefs
- Know when and how to make referrals if topics emerge which are beyond the scope of your competence
This book is a must-read for any mental health professional looking to develop spiritual, religious, and cultural competencies.
Synopsis
Every psychotherapeutic model needs literature that shows therapists how to conceive of real-life cases in terms of the particular treatment protocols of that model; ACT in Practice will be the first such case conceptualization guide for acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), one of the most exciting new psychotherapeutic models.
Synopsis
Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is more than just a set of techniques for structuring psychotherapeutic treatment; it also offers a new, insightful, transdiagnostic approach to case conceptualization and to mental health in general. Learn to put this popular new psychotherapeutic model to work in your practice with this book, the first guide that explains how to do case conceptualization within an ACT framework.
ACT in Practice offers an introduction to ACT, an overview of its impact, and a brief introduction to the six core processes of ACT treatment--the six points of the hexaflex model and its pathological alter ego, the so-called inflexahex. It describes how to accomplish case conceptualizations in general and offers précis of the literature that establish the importance and value of case conceptualization. This guide also offers possible alternative case conceptualization for cases from different therapeutic traditions, a great help to therapists who come from a more traditional CBT background. Exercises throughout help you to evaluate the information you have just learned so that you may effectively integrate ACT into your practice.
Synopsis
The ABCs of Human Behavior the first book to present modern behavioral psychology to practicing clinicians. The book focuses both on the classical principles of learning, as well as the more recent developments that help explain language and cognition.
Synopsis
When cognitive behavior therapy emerged in the 1950s, driven by the work of Albert Ellis and Aaron Beck, basic behavior principles were largely sidelined in clinical psychology curricula. Issues in cognition became the focus of case conceptualization and intervention planning for most therapists. But as the new third-wave behavior therapies begin to address weaknesses in the traditional cognitive behavioral models-principally the modest effectiveness of thought stopping and cognitive restructuring techniques-basic behavior principles are once again attracting the interest of front-line clinicians. Many of today's clinicians, though, received their training during the years in which classical behaviorism was not a major part of clinical education. In order to make the best use of the new contextual behaviorism, they need to revisit basic behavioral principles from a practical angle. This book addresses this need.
The ABCs of Human Behavior offers practicing clinicians a pithy and practical introduction to the basics of modern behavioral psychology. The book focuses both on the classical principles of learning as well as more recent developments that explain language and cognition in behavioral and contextual terms. These principles are not just discussed in the abstract-rather the book shows how the principles of learning apply in the clinical context. Practical and easy to read, the book walks clinicians through both common sense and clinical examples that help them learn to use behavioral principles to observe, explain, and influence behavior in a therapeutic setting.
About the Author
Cassandra Vieten, PhD, is a licensed clinical psychologist, president and CEO of the Institute of Noetic Sciences, and a scientist in the Mind-Body Medicine Research Group at the California Pacific Medical Center Research Institute. Her research has focused on spirituality and health, development and pilot testing of mindfulness-based approaches to cultivating emotional balance, and transformative experiences and practices. She is coauthor of Living Deeply (New Harbinger/Noetic Books 2008) and author of Mindful Motherhood (New Harbinger 2009).
Shelley Scammell, PsyD, is a licensed clinical psychologist with a twenty-year practice in the San Francisco Bay Area. She is an adjunct professor at the California Institute of Integral Studies, and has taught psychology at Sonoma State University, as well as at the American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Formerly, she was an associate professor of English at New York University, and taught at Baruch College and Mount Holyoke. As copresident of the Institute for Spirituality and Psychology, she was fundamental in developing the sixteen competencies. She has published articles on the competencies in APA journals as well as presented them at several APA national conventions. Her extensive background in Western and Eastern spiritual practices and studies has informed her diagnosis and treatment of clients in spiritual struggles. Her clinical experience has fostered a desire to share this expertise with fellow clinicians.Daniel J. Siegel, MD, is executive director of the Mindsight Institute and associate clinical professor of psychiatry at the University of California, Los Angeles School of Medicine. He is author of The Developing Mind, The Mindful Brain, and other books, and founding editor of the Norton Series on Interpersonal Neurobiology.