Utah Psychological Association

From DBT to CBT to ACMHC: Decoding the Alphabet Soup of Therapy Lingo to Increase Patient Empowerment

Are you confused by all the letters after your therapist's name? Wondering what CPT, DBT, or EMDR means for your treatment? You're not alone! Join Cat Sales, UPA Student Representative, as she breaks down mental health credentials and treatment approaches. In this episode, Cat guides listeners through * The differences between various mental health providers (LPC, LCMHC, LMFT, LCSW, PhD, PsyD, MD, APRN) * What each credential means for a provider's training, approach, and specialization * Popular therapy methods demystified, from Cognitive Processing Therapy to Internal Family Systems * Practical insights on licensing, student status, and cost differences between providers Listen now to gain confidence in finding the right provider and treatment approach for your unique needs. And remember, the Utah Psychological Association offers a comprehensive directory of providerst hroughout the state to help you take that important next step.

Student Research: Jisoo Park

Welcome to the Utah Psychological Association podcast. In today's episode, we're delighted to feature Jisoo Park, a promising Counseling Psychology graduate student at the University of Utah and recipient of the UPA student scholarship. Jisoo sits down with Cat Sales, our UPA Student Representative, to discuss her research on the impact of microaggressions on students of color.   Jisoo's work explores how microaggressions and bias incidents within university environments can affect the mental health of students of color, even when they're not directly targeted. This study sheds light on the vicarious effects of a negative campus climate and its broader implications for student wellbeing.   During their conversation, Jisoo and Cat delve into the critical role universities play in supporting students of color who may be struggling with psychological wellbeing and loneliness. They discuss potential strategies and interventions that institutions can implement to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all students.   Join us for this thought-provoking discussion on a topic that's crucial for fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in higher education. Whether you're a student, educator, mental health professional, or simply interested in promoting positive change, this episode offers valuable insights into an important area of psychological research.

A Walk in the Gardens: Connecting to Nature for Mental Health

In this episode we explore the relationship between our mental health and the great outdoors. In this episode, Cat Sales, UPA Student Representative talks with Dr. Amy McDonnell, a postdoctoral researcher from the Applied Cognition Lab at the University of Utah. Imagine stepping away from the hustle and bustle of urban life, leaving behind the constant barrage of screens and stimuli, and immersing yourself in the rejuvenating embrace of nature. Dr. McDonnell's research delves into the impact that increasing our connection with the natural world can have on our overall well-being. In a world where many of us find ourselves disconnected from nature, Dr. McDonnell talks about the research surrounding the potential mental health benefits of reconnecting with nature. Whether you're a city-dweller yearning for a breath of fresh air or someone seeking to deepen your appreciation for the outdoors, this episode promises to be an enlightening and thought-provoking experience. But that's not all! Dr. McDonnell also shares her insights with Cat for aspiring researchers and students seeking to forge their own paths in the field of psychology. So, as Dr. McDonnell says, "get off your computers" and grab your hiking boots or your strolling Crocs, unleash your curiosity and get ready to embark on a journey that might just change the way you perceive the world around you.

Prioritizing Self Care

This one is from the students! In this edition, the UPA Student Representative, Armando Martinez and UPA Student Representative-Elect, Cat Sales talk about stress for those in healthcare and caretaking roles. They introduce the stress continuum model and what it feels like to move from the green to red levels. How do you know you are moving from warning, to concerning, to crisis? What do you do at each of these levels to keep your resources and creativity intact? Armando and Cat discuss their own experiences and provide some tips we can all use. You will see frozen chicken nuggets from a different light after this one.

Managing Holiday Stress

Utah Psychological Association Board Members Dr. Deb Desorbo and Armando Martinez talk about holiday stress and provide guidance and tips on getting through this sometimes tough and complex time. Read Mayo Clinic article on fending off holiday stress at: Tips to fend off holiday stress - Mayo Clinic Health System [https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/fend-off-holiday-stress-with-these-tips#:~:text=Through%20the%20endless%20parties%2C%20cooking%2C%20shopping%20and%20cleaning%2C,...%208%208.%20Be%20realistic.%20...%20More%20items]