Institute for Disaster Mental Health and Center for Deployment Psychology partner to train local clinicians

The Institute for Disaster Mental Health (IDMH) at SUNY New Paltz will host experts from the Center for Deployment Psychology on Oct. 8-9 to provide training for more than 80 mental health clinicians on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Depression.

The Center for Deployment Psychology specializes in preparing mental health care professionals to better meet the deployment-related emotional and psychological needs of military personnel and their families.

“It is imperative that military personnel and their families receive the best evidence-based mental health services because appropriate interventions can reduce the short and long-term impact of trauma on individuals and families,” said Dr. James Halpern, IDMH director. “Our partnership with the Center for Deployment Psychology means that mental health professionals in our region will acquire up-to-date clinical skills for treating depression while increasing their competence in working with military personnel, veterans and their families.”

Participants at the two-day training will be welcomed by Congressman Col. (Ret.) Chris Gibson and SUNY New Paltz President Donald P. Christian.

This is the third Center for Deployment Psychology event hosted by IDMH, with trainings previously conducted on Prolonged Exposure Therapy for PTSD, Military Culture, Sexual Assault, and Sleep Issues.

This event is sponsored by the President’s Office at SUNY New Paltz. For more information or to register visit http://www.newpaltz.edu/idmh/.

About IDMH
IDMH is a national leader in offering education and training in disaster mental health for students, professionals, and paraprofessionals. The Institute comprises scholars and practitioners dedicated to teaching, research, and service to the community in the area of disaster mental health.