Workshop: Brief Solution Focused Therapy

This is a one day introductory workshop intended for all mental health professionals who are interested in grasping the theoretical underpinnings and fundamental skills of ‘Brief Solution Focused Therapy’. Based on social constructionist philosophy Brief Solution Focused Therapy focuses on what clients want to achieve through therapy rather than on the problem(s) that made them seek help. The approach focuses on the present and future. By using specific techniques, the therapist/counselor uses respectful curiosity to invite the client to envision their preferred future and then collaboratively attend to any moves towards it, whether these are small increments or large changes. This effective way is treatment of choice for mild to moderate depression, behavioural problems, addictions, anxiety, phobias, violence and anger problems, and many more conditions.

The workshop will start with a theoretical presentation, followed by discussion and case presentation time. Participants are invited to bring their own clinical material. Role plays will provide an opportunity to practice the skills learned and observe the tutor and each other at work.

The workshop is open to Counselors, Psychologists, Psychotherapists, Nurses, Medical Doctors, Psychiatrists, Social Workers, Care Workers, Students, PSHE Teachers, School Counselors. Other professionals interested in Mental health are invited to attend. A certificate of attendance will be issued to individuals who attend this workshop.

The workshop will be hosted by Dr. Charlie Azzopardi who is a systemic family therapist. His interest in the addictions dates back to the 1980’s, when Dr. Azzopardi was involved in the set up of various addictions services including San Blas, Programme Spark, and the Sedqa Family Services. Before, during, and after receiving his first degree in psychology Dr. Azzopardi underwent extensive training in the addictions, psychodrama, and transactional analysis in Rome. He obtained his Master’s degree in family therapy from the Institute of Psychiatry in London and his Doctorate in systemic psychotherapy from the University of East London in conjunction with the Tavistock Clinic. Dr. Azzopardi has had training in various psychotherapeutic techniques including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Strategic Therapy of which he is a practitioner. Apart from spending more than 20 years working locally, Dr. Azzopardi also worked in London within NHS eating disorders settings. For many years Dr. Azzopardi was also involved clinically within various local agencies including Sedqa, Cana Movement, Richmond Foundation, Appogg, Eden Foundation, Caritas and other private organisations. He also taught at the University of Malta for several years. He presented papers in various conferences and published articles on family life in local newspapers and magazines. His main interests remain the wide spectrum of family problems including marital problems, addictions, adolescent problems, and so on. Of special interest is the development of new therapeutic techniques that makes working with families and individuals easier and accessible. He practices privately meeting families and individuals with various difficulties, as well as delivering various training programmes.

The event will take place on the 4^th of July 2008 from 9am till 5pm. The venue will be announced at a later date. Those interested are encouraged to call on 79663265 or e-mail azzopardi.charlie@gmail.com. Price is €70.00. Payment by cheque is to be made to Dr. Charlie Azzopardi and sent to 94 Triq il-Hannieqa Ghaxaq GXQ 1025. Applications must be received by Monday 15th June 2008. No reservations will be accepted without payment. The right is reserved to cancel the workshop should minimum numbers not be reached by the closing time for applications. In the event of participant cancellation within the last postal week before the course, the fee will not be refunded.

Angelo Abela – Psychiatric Nurse