Fall Forensic Series

Forensic psychology and forensic dimensions in clinical practice pose significant challenges and opportunities for professional practice, research and consideration of the intersections among psychology, law, ethics and public policy. The distinguished presenters in our Fall Forensic Series highlight topics of importance.

Lisa Firestone, Ph.D., instructor

According to the World Health Organization (2002) the overall violent death rate in 2000 in the United States was approximately twice as high as the estimated rate for other high-income countries. To more effectively deal with this monumental public health problem, it is important to integrate knowledge from several disciplines to enhance our understanding of the numerous factors that contribute to an individual’s potential for violence. Dr. Firestone is a leading expert on this topic giving national and international presentations to professionals. This presentation will integrate findings from the fields of neuroscience, attachment, and psychology. This workshop provides an in-depth understanding of developmental issues contributing to violence, the triggers of violence, assessment, case management, and treatment of violent or potentially violent adults and adolescents.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

• Understand the core dynamics operating in clients at risk for violent behavior
• Identify clients’ negative thought patterns that influence self-destructive and violent behavior
• Utilize assessment and interview techniques, based on static and dynamic risk factors to effectively identify those at greatest risk for violent behavior
• Adapt treatment to the client’s type of violence for more effective treatment outcomes
• Plan crisis intervention and case management with violent or potentially violent clients
• Employ an innovative/cognitive/affective/behavioral approach for treating violent clients
• Recognize the legal and ethical issues involved in treating violent individuals, including common mistakes made by clinicians

Program Code: V611
6 CE Credits
Location: at MSPP, West Roxbury/Boston

Lisa Firestone, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist and the Director of Research and Education at the Glendon Association. She is involved in clinical training and research in the areas of suicide and violence, resulting in the development of the Firestone Assessment of Self-destructive Thoughts (FAST), the (FASI). The Firestone Assessment of Violent Thoughts (FAVT), published by PAR Publications. Dr. Firestone is the co-author of Conquer Your Critical Inner Voice; Creating a Life of Meaning and Compassion and Sex and Love in Intimate Relationships. Lisa Firestone is a highly regarded workshop facilitator in the topics of suicide, violence and family relations.