ACT - the Matrix for Chronic Pain Series

What:
Four, 60-minute webinar sessions presenting the ACT - Matrix Diagram and Exercises for people suffering with chronic pain. Whether you are new to ACT - the Matrix or seasoned, this webinar will give you an overview of the fundamentals of using the exercises for chronic pain. Since ACT - the Matrix is generalizable, you will find yourself using it throughout your practice.

Based on Kevin Polk’s (and colleague’s) work of simplifying ACT, the Matrix Diagram and Exercises for Chronic Pain webinar begins with a dynamic overview of the best practices for quickly establishing the discrimination training that is at the core of ACT. Across four weeks you will learn additional exercises to strengthen your core skills. All four sessions will include many examples of working with chronic pain clients.

Webinar Session 1 will focus on How to introduce the Matrix Diagram and Exercises for Chronic Pain.This will be a quick overview of the entire diagram using what is known as the "Quadrant" or "ACT by Numbers" routine.

• You will learn how to establish the point of view (technically called Functional Contextualism) and begin some of the basic exercises for using ACT - the Matrix for Pain.
• You will also learn how to assign a special kind of homework unique to ACT - the Matrix.

Webinar Session 2 will focus on Establishing the Unworkable Change Agenda. 

• We will review "homework" and then delve more deeply into the "unworkable change agenda" exercise that is done using Quadrants 2 and 3 of the Matrix.
• We will focus on the unworkable aspects of "pain."
• We will finish with the "Noticing Hooks" exercises, which becomes the standard "homework.”

Webinar Session 3 will focus on Self-as-Context

• After reviewing some "Noticing Hooks" homework, we will do a bit more on the Values and Committed Action work.
• At this point we will be ready for more serious "Noticing the Difference" work (discrimination training).
• We will switch our attention from Quadrants to the two lines of the Matrix and practice the “sorting of pain” experiences into the Matrix.
• We will also be talking about how to artfully use positive reinforcement to draw people into the discrimination training.

Webinar Session 4 will focus on Jazz and Improvisation.

• Don't worry, you don't need to know any music or stage improv, however the Matrix (and ACT in general) is fluid and flexible.
• That means your responses change with the context.
• In this session you will get started on this fluid process as you work with chronic pain clients.

When:
January 12, 19, 26, Feb. 2, 2012 at 5pm Eastern Standard Time USA.

Where:
Conference call with live screen sharing. You will receive the numbers and links after registering.

email me at polkkev@gmail.com to register.

Cost for the series is $120.00 for students and $180.00 for professionals.

Be well,

Kevin