Recognizing & Treating Medical Trauma

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Sacha McBain, PhD Related seminars and products

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Sacha McBain, PhD is a clinical psychologist and associate professor at Rush University System for Health in Chicago, IL. A national leader in medical traumatic stress, Dr. McBain has published peer-reviewed research on the conceptualization and treatment of medical trauma, led national clinical trainings, and helped shape best practices for mental health screening and intervention after traumatic injury. She has worked alongside interdisciplinary partners to develop trauma-informed care approaches and is passionate about bringing psychological intervention to critical care and surgical settings. Through her research, education, and clinical practice, she pushes for better care systems for patients and families impacted by medical trauma. Dr. McBain contributed to the American College of Surgeons Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Best Practice Guidelines Work Group and is an active member of the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies.

 

Speaker Disclosures:
Financial: Dr. Sacha McBain has an employment relationship with Rush University Medical Center.. She receives a grant from NIH/NIDA. Dr. McBain receives a speaking honorarium and recording royalties from PESI, Inc. She has no relevant financial relationships with ineligible organizations.
Non-financial: Dr. Sacha McBain is a member of the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies.

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Objectives

1. Differentiate the psychological and physical impact of medical trauma from other forms of trauma. 
2. Implement evidence-based interventions that address trauma-related thoughts, physiological distress, and somatic symptoms. 
3. Develop strategies to overcome systemic barriers and support patients in navigating healthcare systems. 

Outline

Key Concepts in Medical Trauma 

• What is Medical Trauma? 
  • Distinguishing it from other types of trauma 
  • Key sources and causes in medical settings 
• Grief, loss, and caregiver/family dynamics 
• Effects on physical outcomes and health behaviors 
• Depression, anxiety, PTSD, and their connection to medical trauma 
• Limitations of the research and potential treatment risks 

Assessment of Medical Trauma 

• Methods of Assessment: 
  • Self-report measures, clinical interviews, behavioral observations 
• Domains to Assess:  
  • Defining a treatment plan based on assessment results. 

Treatment Approaches 

• Continuum of Care 
• Types of Treatment Models 
  • Sequential 
  • Parallel 
  • Integrated 
• Standard vs. Adapted vs. Adjunctive Treatments 
  • Tested interventions for reducing medical trauma-related distress 
  • Interventions tailored for unique medical trauma needs 
  • Supplemental interventions (e.g., pain, insomnia, memory changes) 
• Supporting caregivers and promoting family wellbeing 
• Practical Case Examples 

Systemic Barriers & Client Advocacy 

• Healthcare and Mental Healthcare System Constraints 
  • Insurance limitations and provider time constraints 
  • Gaps in trauma-informed care 
• Navigating Healthcare Systems 
  • Addressing fear, avoidance, and self-advocacy skills 
  • Communicating with healthcare providers and confronting ableism 
  • Understanding patient rights within the healthcare system 
• Promoting inclusion for individuals with chronic illness or disability 
• Addressing clinician burnout and secondary trauma 

Target Audience

• Counselors
• Marriage and Family Therapists
• Social Workers
• Physicians 
• Psychologists
• Addiction Counselors