Welcome to the Open Sky Webinar We will begin at 6 pm- see you soon!

Welcome to the Open Sky Webinar

We will begin at 6 pm- see you soon!

Healing the Brain

Brain Chemistry and Healing at Open Sky

Dr. Katie Grace MacElveen

Goals of Presentation

Understand how cutting-edge neuroscience research supports Open Sky as a powerful intervention

Increase our ability to work together to support transition from wilderness to next steps

Share my passion

Typical Challenges for Students at Open Sky

Depression Anxiety Self-harm/suicidal

ideation Mild eating

disorders Drug/alcohol abuse Chemical

dependency Bipolar disorder Grief/loss Trauma

Self-esteem issues Family issues Relationship issues Identity issues School &

employment problems

Feeling lost, unsure of the future

History of treatment failures

DevelopmentLines of Development Cognition Self-identify (ego) Values Emotions Morals Interpersonal Spiritual Needs Kinesthetic Musical

Touched by a Wild Mountain Gorilla Video*Your connection and computer speeds may vary, resulting in different play back experiences.

Gorilla Encounter

What was your experience?

What is Needed for Healthy Development? Safety Tools/skills Support for learning New and challenging

experiences in an oxytocin rich environment: Positive social interactions Psychological support Sensory experiences

(smell, taste)Kerstin Uvnäs-Moberg M.D., Ph.D. of Sweden

Effects of Oxytocin Reduction in

anxiety symptoms Reduction of blood

pressure & cortisol levels

Increase in pain threshold

Stimulation of positive social interactions, overall growth, and healing

Belonging

Oxytocin & addiction

Disease model of addiction:Brain reward systems results in compulsive drug alcohol useBrain Healing: 8-12 weeks to increase dopemine uptake, create new paths for stress toleranceKevin T. McCauley, M.D.

Connecting to Meaning and Purpose

Simple and Consistent

Substance-freeTechnology-freeDistraction-freeSupport for self- understandingSupport for applying tools

Teaming for TransitionPreparing for next stage:Relapse awareness and support planTools, skills, and support for transitionFamily quests & graduation

Thank you!

Dr. Katie Grace MacElveenClinical Therapist for Young Adults

[email protected]

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