Mike Christensen, Director of Professional Development at the Feeling Good Institute, shares his expertise in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). He explores how our thoughts shape our feelings and actions, highlighting the difference between CBT and mere positive thinking. Mike discusses the powerful TEAM approach to therapy, emphasizing empathy and measuring outcomes. He also shares techniques for overcoming resistance to change, the benefits of deliberate practice for personal growth, and how to frame challenges as opportunities for success.
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insights INSIGHT
The Power of Thoughts
Our thoughts significantly influence our feelings and actions. By altering our thinking patterns, we can reshape our emotional responses and improve our performance.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Measure Progress
Regularly test and measure progress in any helping profession. Use outcome measures to ensure effective improvement and adapt strategies as necessary.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Empathize with Others
Always take time to listen and understand the concerns of those you help. Building a strong connection fosters trust and enhances effectiveness.
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This book, written by Dr. David D. Burns, outlines scientifically proven techniques based on CBT to help readers overcome negative thoughts and develop a positive outlook on life. It addresses common mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, guilt, and low self-esteem by identifying and correcting cognitive distortions. The book provides practical advice on recognizing and changing negative thought patterns, handling criticism, building self-esteem, and improving overall mental well-being.
In this episode of the L&P Podcast, I speak with Mike Christensen, a counselor, trainer, and expert in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), about how our thoughts and beliefs influence how we feel, what we do, and ultimately, our ability to learn and perform. Mike and I discuss a range of CBT tools and techniques that are not only valuable to therapists and their patients, but can be used in any situation in which people might need to rethink things or change beliefs in order to learn or perform better. We also discuss how to use "deliberate practice" to improve at providing therapy, coaching, and beyond.
KEY TOPICS:
In our conversation, Mike and I discuss a range of topics, including:
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and how what we think determines how we feel
The difference between CBT and positive thinking
David Burns’ new “TEAM” model of providing therapy and coaching
The importance of measuring outcomes
Why empathy is a necessary but not sufficient condition for change
Overcoming resistance to change
A bunch of techniques to help you untwist your thinking
The importance of deliberate practice and feedback in improving
Positive reframing
A whole lot more…
ABOUT THE GUEST:
Mike Christensen. MACP, RCC, ACS serves as the Director of Professional Development at the Feeling Good Institute. He is a Registered Clinical Counselor with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counselors and holds a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology. His diverse background in business, community organizations, and family support roles has provided Mike with a wide array of experience in leadership, administration, parenting training, and team building. He is a Certified Level 5 Master TEAM CBT Therapist and Trainer and is the Director of Feeling Good Institute Canada. He provides advanced level online training with the Feeling Good Institute for therapists around the world and is the co-author of “Deliberate Practice for TEAM CBT" with Dr. Maor Katz, Dr. Tony Roussmaniere and Dr. Alez Vaz. Mike lives in Canada with his wife and daughters. He is an avid cyclist and former swim coach.
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