Impacting Reflective Function of Parents with Young Children through a Mentalization-Based Approach
Description
Professionals interacting with parents of infants and young children have a unique window of opportunity to make a difference shortly before or after the birth of a child. We can have a positive impact on reflective function, mental health, and attachment quality through a mentalization-based, reflective demeanor and approach. By interacting from a reflective, mentalizing state, we can help parents move toward earned security and greater reflective capacity. Professionals will gain skills for overcoming obstacles to effective interactions with parents.
In this session, we will:
- Describe the characteristics of the mentalizing and reflective approach when interacting with struggling families.
- Identify common relationship obstacles when interacting with parents with low reflective function.
- Give examples of effective corrective responses to parents’ negative perceptions regarding their young children.
This event is directed toward professionals who may interact with parents of young children in any capacity.
Previously recorded on September 26, 2024.
Continuing Education Credits or Certificate of Completion
Speaker(s)
Debra Wesselmann, MS, LIMHP is co-founder of The Attachment and Trauma Center of Nebraska in Omaha, Nebraska, where she has specialized in treating attachment trauma for 33 years. Ms. Wesselmann is an EMDR trainer with the EMDR Institute, founded by Francine Shapiro, Ph.D. Ms. Wesselmann and Carolyn Settle co-developed the EMDR Basic Training with Child Supplemental Material for the EMDR Institute. She conducts research and has authored and co-authored numerous articles, chapters, and books related to attachment and trauma including a treatment manual for EMDR and family therapy treatment of attachment trauma in children and accompanying parent guide. She most recently authored a manual for EMDR and parts work treatment related to attachment trauma in adults. As a recognized expert in attachment issues, Ms. Wesselmann presents keynotes and workshops for organizations both nationally and internationally.