Teaching at University of Iceland

This has been such a busy week that I am just catching up on sharing the adventure. As the Fulbright Specialist assigned to University of Iceland, I have shared my work with creative therapies and trauma counseling with several classes in the Social Work Department. In each class, I have coordinated with the professors so that what I have to offer enhances the program of study. Here are a few examples of what I presented for students and community professionals.

 I introduced the basic concepts of Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) to Social Workers from the community and some who are students. Last month I finished an EFT training with Association for Comprehensive Energy Psychology (ACEP) that made me even more excited about the potential for EFT in counseling. 

Next I presented on Addictions and Older Adults for the Addictions class.  Beyond the usual prescription drugs and alcohol issues, students learned about lesser discussed addictions for elders; shopping, online gambling and hoarding. We were chatting after class and did not get a photo.

 As part of an Intensive Class, I presented on Trauma Counseling with Older Adults. In addition to the basic issues and therapeutic approaches,  we reviewed some assessment options for use with clients. I shared my approach  to conduct the clinical interview in a conversational style that feels less intimidating for the older adult. Most of this class are already in Social Work positions and offered insights in return on how these ideas might apply to their clients. 
This exchange of ideas between cultures is enlightening to me and I learn as I teach from these dedicated professionals.