Description
412: Holistic Care: Cultivating Resilience and Spiritual Growth in Clients During the COVID-19 Era
Laurel Shaler, Ph.D.
Liberty University
1971 University Blvd.
Lynchburg, VA 24515
Jeff Boatner, Ph.D.
Liberty University
1971 University Blvd.
Lynchburg, VA 24515
Holly Johnson, Ph.D.
Liberty University
1971 University Blvd.
Lynchburg, VA 24515
Steve Johnson, Ph.D.
Liberty University
1971 University Blvd.
Lynchburg, VA 24515
Summary
Despite the limited duration of time, there is a growing body of research surrounding the impact of current stressors, including COVID-19. Chen & Bonanno (2020) address resilience as being a possible outcome of this pandemic. A research study conducted by Yildirim & Solmaz (2020) found that resilience is a mediation between burnout and stress caused by COVID-19. Furthermore, Roberto et al. support the meaningful correlational relationship between spirituality and resilience. This presentation will rest on this growing body of literature as participants learn more about the resilience findings from the pandemic’s start to the CAPS conference. Unprecedented changes in the landscape of our country have created adverse impacts on the mental health and well-being of individuals and families. These difficulties and challenges can either diminish our determination or make us stronger. Resilience is the ability to navigate, recover, and adapt after experiencing adverse challenges. Research on post-traumatic growth supports this contention, arguing that the individual’s reaction and interpretation of (this would touch on the idea of meaning-making in life), rather than the experience of, traumatic events defines their experience. This session will impart knowledge and provide insights into opportunities for post-traumatic growth, building resilience, and ideas for creating a growth mindset to manage the challenges and courageously face contemporary stressors. Participants will leave with practical resources to help clients navigate and grow through circumstances, adapt to emerging challenges, and cultivate an ability to thrive even when confronted by extreme situations.
Learning Objectives
Participants will:
• Discuss and define resilience, identify specific types, and examine the differences between a growth and fixed mindset
• Evaluate and explain clinical and research strategies, including the incorporation of spirituality, that foster resilience and encourage a healthy response
• Apply the knowledge and provide practical strategies as psychologists and licensed mental health professionals to engage clients and help them cultivate individual, community, spiritual and existential resources to build resilience and thrive
