PSYCHOLOGY OF MINDFULNESS

ASIAN/RELIGST 473

Examines contemplative practices in the two major Indian religions, Buddhism and Hinduism. Covers practices described in ancient texts but also provides an overview of selected modern practices.

PSYCHIAT 713

Provides a foundation in reflective practices through discussion of cases, infant and family observations and mindfulness experiences as applied to students' work with infants, young children and families. Explore and experience ways in which reflective practices may be applied to parent-infant/early childhood mental health. Learn mindfulness strategies for developing self-awareness and regulation that may be brought to their work with families of infants and young children. In small Reflective Mentoring Groups, students will experience both descriptive and in-vivo examples of reflective practice through case based presentations, deeper introspection and supportive discussion to increase clarity and engagement in work with families of young children. Consider boundaries and ethical decision making related to the dilemmas faced by professionals working with families during the perinatal period and in early childhood, especially those in high risk and challenging circumstances.

ASIAN/RELIGST 650

Advanced topics in theories focused on the mechanisms of contemplative practices such as mindfulness, focused attention and compassion practices, with special emphasis on the interaction of traditional theories from contemplative traditions such as Buddhism and more recent theoretical accounts in psychology and cognitive science.

ASIAN/COUNPSY/EDPSYCH/PSYCH 120

Explore perspectives related to human flourishing from the sciences and humanities; investigate themes such as transformation, resilience, compassion, diversity, gratitude, community; expand self-awareness, enhanced social connectivity, and ability to change; formulate a sense of what it means to lead a flourishing life that sustains meaningful and fulfilling engagement with studies, relationships, community, and career.

PSYCHIAT 716

Continued advancement in reflective practices through case discussion, infant and family observations, mindfulness and self-compassion experiences as applied to their work with infants, young children and families. Additional strategies and in-depth opportunities for introspection and self-awareness. Discussion of relationship-based therapeutic consultation and interventions and attention to the parallel process between the nature of their relationship with a parent and the parent's relationship with their child. Focus will be on underserved populations and contribution of maternal depression, substance abuse disorders and trauma on the parent-child relationship and the child's development. Complex ethical decision making and policy issues will be addressed. Inclusion of a self-assessment process that will support students in appraising their competencies and readiness to apply for the WI Alliance for Infant Mental Health Endorsement.