Michael Burge OAM FAPS, Director of the Australian College of Trauma Treatment will present at the 16th International Mental Health Conference at QT Hotel, Gold Coast 12-14 August 2015.

Michael Burge OAM FAPS

Speaker Bio: Michael Burge is current Director of the Australian College of Trauma Treatment, a Director Board of Directors of the Australian Psychological Society and has had over 30 years experience in psychology, counselling, education and training. He has been working clinically in the area of PTSD for approximately 25 years. Michael has published both nationally and internationally in the field of PTSD, with a particular focus on psychosocial issues affecting Vietnam Veterans and their families.

During the early nineteen nineties, Michael introduced PTSD skills based short courses and workshops into Australia and as guest lecturer to most Melbourne Universities. In the 2010 Australia day honours Michael was awarded the Order of Australia Medal for service to psychology and to the community through the development of training and treatment protocols for trauma. He is former state president of the EMDR association, former chair of the Victorian Branch of the Australian Psychological Society. Michael was also a former long serving member of the Sir Edward "Weary" Dunlop Medical Research Foundation Symposium panel and scientific committee.

Presentation Overview: Michael Burge OAM FAPS will explore emergent trends recommended from research that places increasing significance and emphasis on the utilization of interventions that promote an atmosphere of safety during the treatment of PTSD. Within this theme the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ISTSS) recommended, empirically based, best Practise interventions for PTSD will be outlined. These include CBT, EMDR, CPT and emergent expressive therapies. The complications that may arise during the application of standard protocols’ that promote desensitization, habituation, processing and integration of traumatic memories, while minimizing aggravation or decomposition, will be discussed.  For instance, maintaining client safety when dealing with flashbacks and dissociation during trauma therapy.  The impact of perceived Mental Health stigma on the clients’ capacity to work through traumatic material will also be reviewed.

To view and/or download the full 16th International Mental Health Conference program please visit the website here.

Early Bird registration rates are available until 3 July 2015 - to secure your discounted delegate rate please click here.