This presentation will 1) Describe a theoretical framework for understanding the relationship between mindfulness and mentalization (self-other understanding) 2) Explain how this framework underpins mentalizing imagery therapy (MIT); 3) Discuss acceptability of MIT for both English language (Latino and non-Latino) caregivers and Spanish language Latino caregivers; 4) Report clinical and neuroimaging evidence for the effects of MIT on (a) reducing depressive symptoms and stress and (b) improving mentalization and mindfulness in family caregivers; 5) Compare delivery modes of MIT via in-person, virtual and smartphone application approaches.

In this presentation, Dr. Siegel will examine the notion of “connection” and its correlation with mental health. When we feel disconnected from our inner life, we suffer; when we are disconnected relationally—from people and nature—we can become anxious, depressed, despondent.  What is this powerful “connection” actually made of, what is it, and how can we take the science of connection and inform the practice of psychotherapy? In many ways, the experience of a separate, solo-self may underly the many challenges we face, from racism and social injustice to environmental destruction. The field of mental health can play a pivotal role in how we help our human family move toward a new way of living on Earth by addressing the modern cultural excessive focus on individuality in the separate sense of…

This presentation will 1) Describe the physiological paths underlying the benefits of mindfulness training for patients with cardiovascular disease; 2) Summarize the currently proposed mechanistic models supporting the use of mindfulness training to promote cardiovascular health, and 3) Present novel insights on the possible effects of mindfulness training on important mediators (cognitive function, interoception) relevant for patients with CV disease with practical examples from research projects conducted by Dr. Salmoirago-Blotcher’s group.

Mindfulness meditation practices can be conceptualized as a set of attention-based, regulatory and self-inquiry training regimes cultivated for various ends, including the training of well-being and psychological health. In this presentation, Dr. Lutz will first review a model which conceptualizes mindfulness-related states and traits as a multidimensional phenomenal matrix that can readily be expressed into a neurocognitive framework. This phenomenal and neurocognitive matrix of mindfulness is presented as a heuristic to guide formulation of research hypotheses from both cognitive/behavioral and neuroscientific perspectives. Dr. Lutz will then discuss recent behavioral, physiologic, and neural results related to mindfulness practice and training from our groups and from collaborators. He will focus in particular on the role in these practices of meta-awareness and dereification. In the last part of the presentation, Dr. Lutz will…

In the second part of a three-part mini series on psychedelic assisted therapies in collaboration with the Institute of Integrative Health and Wellness (IIHW) Dr. Scott Shannon will explore how the psychedelic framework of relationship, music, set and setting can exploit the malleable effects of ketamine on consciousness. He will review his data about group ketamine-assisted psychotherapy for healthcare workers and his experience training a few hundred professionals in an experiential group model of KAP. Scott will compare and contrast ketamine to MDMA for the treatment of trauma and speculate about the spiritual benefits of this well-known agent. Dr. Elias Dakwar will discuss the results of his research investigating ketamine coupled with mindfulness training on use-related measures in cocaine- and alcohol-dependent volunteers, as well as discuss the broader significance of ketamine and non-ordinary experiences in…

In the first part of a three-part mini series on psychedelic assisted therapies in collaboration with the Institute of Integrative Health and Wellness (IIHW), researchers from the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies Public Benefit Corporation (MAPS PBC) address the current scientific landscape of MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD, including the underlying mechanisms and treatment protocols.

Mental health problems and adversity in our world today are prevalent and impairing, including among parents, children, and youth. Few who need support receive it, and many existing interventions do not offer lasting help. The social and personal costs of inattention to these problems are clear. Commitment to creating a better future draws many to the study and practice of mindfulness and other contemplative practices. This presentation will explore the following key questions: What are the limitations of extant approaches to common mental health problems? To what extent and in what ways do mindfulness-based interventions offer benefit? What challenges and cautions must be addressed if the promises of mindfulness-based interventions are to be realized?

Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy is constructed from seemingly disparate elements – training in mindfulness meditation offered alongside cognitive theory of affective disorder. It has amassed a strong evidence in both reducing symptom burden and fostering wellness. At present, the question of how exactly this multi-modal treatment achieves its benefits remains largely unanswered. It is still fair to ask, for example, about the relative contribution of cognitive therapy principles versus mindfulness practice to the gains patients report. Clarifying mechanisms of action is of more than academic interest, as it will likely inform models of training for the generation of MBCT practitioners along with building a transtheoretical model of how mindfulness based programs work.

Designed for USC undergraduate, graduate, medical students, and residents/fellows. Come learn the fundamentals of conducting research in the area of mindfulness! In this workshop, you will learn to: Plan, design, and debug a research proposal Obtain your HIPAA & CITI Certifications and how to apply for IRB approval Seek funding for your research and write a grant proposal Learn to write a manuscript and submit it for publication Workshop Aims: Develop a mindfulness-focused research proposal Write a grant proposal Submit an IRB application Write and submit a research manuscript for publication Dates: March 22nd, March 29th, April 5th, & April 12th (PLAN TO ATTEND ALL FOUR DATES) Time: 4:00pm-6:00pm Location: Online (Zoom). Register Here!

As more and more people take up meditation for a variety of reasons across a plethora of settings, it is imperative that we understand how and whether different approaches to meditation work for given individuals, seeking to address specific problems or achieve specific goals. Despite popular suggestions that meditation is the cure to all our problems and that everyone can do it on their own, evidence suggests that while some may find it life-transforming, others may find it uninspiring, and still others may find it harmful. In this talk I will review what we know and what we don't about meditation and present recent data about such critical areas as motivation for practice, dose-response effects, and unexpected experiences. I will also present suggestions for the kind of work necessary in…