In couple therapy, cycles of disconnection and reactivity pose frustrating challenges. This web conference will explore the intergenerational, neurobiological, cultural, interpersonal, and psychodynamic processes that influence these patterns. Dr. Fishbane uses neuroscience and relationship research from her new book to present a practical and integrative approach that empowers couples to transform their relationship dynamics.

Strategies will be introduced to enhance social and emotional intelligence skills in couples such as empathy, emotion regulation, respect, and equality. We will contrast the knee-jerk reactions of the emotional brain with the ability to live in accordance with one's values and goals, a function that is governed by the higher brain. Our focus will be on assisting couples to become “proactive lovers” as they co-author their relationship. Couples find hope in the fact that the brain's ability to change—neuroplasticity—persists throughout life.

This web conference is intermediate instructional level and designed to help clinicians:

  1. List brain states underlying couple dysregulation;
  2. Analyze and diagram the cycles of vulnerability in distressed couples;
  3. Utilize interventions informed by relationship science and neuroscience to facilitate safety and connection;
  4. Work effectively with resistance and provide clients with tools for relational change.

If you have any questions or concerns about this web conference, or would like more information, please contact us here.

How the Web Conference Works

Attendees who register for this event will log in to the web conference center by using a computer and calling in to the teleconference line. Attendees will be able to ask live audio questions via phone and/or submit text chat questions via computer. Live streaming video and/or document sharing will also be available to participants. Alternatively, attendees may dial in to the teleconference line only, though attendees dialing in by phone only will be unable to ask questions.

Before the scheduled event, all registered attendees will be sent a reminder email with specific instructions on how to log in to the web conference center, as well as links to optional handout materials if applicable.

This event will include lecture and question-and-answer periods. A recording of the web conference will be available to members in GoodTherapy.org's Continuing Education Archives within two weeks. After the live event, a written transcript of the event will be available in the Member's Area. Members of GoodTherapy.org can receive continuing education credits for attending this event by logging in to the GoodTherapy.org Member's Area.

Continuing Education (CE) Information

Two CE credits will be provided by GoodTherapy.org for attending this web conference in its entirety.

GoodTherapy.org is also an Approved Education Provider by NAADAC, The Association for Addiction Professionals (provider #135463). Of the eight counselor skill groups ascribed to by NAADAC, this course is classified within counseling services.

GoodTherapy.org is an NBCC-Approved Continuing Education Provider (ACEPTM) and may offer NBCC-approved clock hours for events that meet NBCC requirements.

GoodTherapy.org, provider #1352, is approved as a provider for social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) www.aswb.org, through the Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. ASWB Approval Period: March 30, 2016 through March 30, 2019. Social workers should contact their regulatory board to determine course approval. Social workers participating in this course will receive two clinical continuing education clock hours.

GoodTherapy.org is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. GoodTherapy.org maintains responsibility for this program and its content.

GoodTherapy.org, SW CPE is recognized by the New York State Education Department's State Board for Social Work as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed social workers #0395.

Registration Information

This web conference is available at no cost to GoodTherapy.org members.

Event Reviews from Members

"A very useful, informative, well presented, relevant, and awesome workshop...wonderful information and skills for my practice!" - Patricia Bartley, LPC

"There were so many fantastic bits of information in this workshop. I can't wait to watch the replay again so I can pick up on even more. I'm quite intrigued with the brain and how it impacts relationships. It's just fascinating to me." - Tamara Whitten, MS, LMFT, CFLE

Meet the Presenter

Mona D. Fishbane, PhD

Mona Fishbane, PhD is a clinical psychologist and the Couple Therapy Training Director for the Chicago Center for Family Health. She is a long-term member of AFTA, advisory board member for Family Process, and an AAMFT-approved supervisor. Dr. Fishbane is a national and international speaker and has published a number of articles on neurobiology, relationship therapy, and intergenerational relationships. Dr. Fishbane was recently awarded a grant by the Templeton Foundation.

Dr. Fishbane's latest book is part of the Norton Series on interpersonal neurobiology: Loving with the Brain in Mind: Neurobiology & Couple Therapy. For more information on Mona Fishbane and her work, please visit www.monafishbane.com.