Presenters
- Morgan A. Stinson, Ph.D., LMFT, Assistant Professor, Mercer University School of Medicine, Macon, GA
- Andrea S. Meyer, Ph.D., LMFT, Associate Professor, Mercer University School of Medicine, Macon, GA
- Andrew S. Benesh, Ph.D., LMFT, Assistant Professor, Clinic Director of Mercer Family Therapy Center, Macon, GA
Summary
With recent technological advances, behavioral health clinicians are challenged to learn behavioral intervention technologies (BITs) in order to promote positive change for patients. Over time, different schools of thought developed psychological, emotional, behavioral, and relational techniques, homework, and interventions to guide the time-sensitive behavioral health encounters with patients. Recent technological advances have introduced clinicians to the use of behavioral intervention technologies (BITs), which are applications that utilize mobile phones, tablets, computers, and other processes to assist patients in achieving behavioral health goals. In this workshop, we demonstrate through clinical case studies and experiential activities that integrating BITs not only enhances therapeutic techniques and goals but also helps the patients internalize the process of learning. Internalizing or developing personal mental models of change may help patients to sustain their gains and become effective problem solvers. Examples of web-based technologies, social media, and assistive technologies are reviewed for their clinical utility and ability to promote optimal functioning. We also integrate lessons from diffusion of innovation literature to help clinicians develop a framework they can use to translate technological and non-traditional means of behavior change into behavioral health work. While there are numerous technological advances occurring at a fast rate, there is a need for clinicians to help clients appropriately utilize BITs in a way that promotes positive change. We look to integrate a systemic lens on BITs that strengthen social ties and networks. We conclude with recommendations for future clinical, research, and policy implications for BIT and behavioral health clinicians.
Objectives
- learn about the emerging field of behavioral intervention technologies (BITs)
- understand the conditions under which providers should utilize BITs as well as how to integrate BITs within current practices.
- multiple examples of current BITs and will engage in within medical encounters application of these technologies to clinical cases.