Workshop 5

 

Psychotherapy for Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Thomas Borkovec, Penn State University, USA

 
Tom Borkovec

Generalized anxiety disorder is a common anxiety disorder. Despite its importance, fewer therapeutic developments specific to this disorder have been made relative to other anxiety disorders. This workshop provides training in CBT methods developed from our clinical and experimental experience over the past 25 years.  These include: (a) self-monitoring of anxiety process and the learning of early anxiety cue detection;  (b) flexible application of multiple applied relaxation methods; (c) in-session rehearsal of coping responses using self-control desensitization; (d) cognitive techniques designed to facilitate more flexible and adaptive ways of perceiving and experiencing the present-moment. Of particular importance is the significant role played by early childhood attachment and adult interpersonal styles in the origins and maintenance of GAD and thus in its treatment, leading to our incorporation of interpersonal and emotional deepening techniques into our CBT approach.
 
Learning Objectives:
1) To learn how to facilitate clients' self-monitoring of anxious process.
2) To gain familiarity with how to instruct clients in applied relaxation techniques.
3) To learn how to use imagery as a way of rehearsing and reinforcing client coping skills.
4) To know how to apply cognitive therapy methods specifically for GAD and worry.
5) To become aware of the potential usefulness and learn some of the specific techniques of interpersonal and experiential psychotherapy methods for GAD clients.
 
Training Modalities: Training is provided through didactic presentations and videotapes. Frequent empirical information gives strong foundation for the recommendations of specific technique applications for GAD and for possible future developments in its cognitive behavioural treatment.
 
Tom’s research and practice has focused on anxiety disorders. Empirical work has involved both basic and applied research, and therapy investigations have focused  on CBT, interpersonal, and experiential therapies.
 
References: 1) Borkovec, T.D., and Sharpless, B. (2004). Generalized anxiety disoder: Bringing CBT into the Valued Present. In S. Hayes, V. Follette, and M. Linehan (Eds.), New directions in behaviour therapy. NY: Guilford Press.
2) Newman, M. G., et al. (2004). Integrative therapy for generalized anxiety disorder. In R. G. Heimberg, C. L. Turk, and D. S. Mennin (Eds.), Generalized anxiety disorder: Advances in research and practice. NY: Guilford