eiseEducation

Attachment Theory has increasingly engaged stress research to better expound embodied homoeostatic components of attachment experiences, early maltreatment and trauma throughout life.

Our current best understanding of stress first emerged from with a Sterling & Eyer (1988) proposal for an Allostasis ‘wear and tear’ model for biological ageing, followed up by the McEwan & Stellar (1993) accompanying notion for cumulative risk: Allostatic Load. Both advance our understanding of multi-factor contributions to the resolution of current stress and possible long-term risks associated with “chronic, toxic stress.”

The webinar begins with a brief review of stress research in light of attachment theory, especially the allostasis model and its interplay with the activation of the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis (HPA) and the autonomic nervous system (ANS). The next part of the webinar extrapolates three clinical opportunities for consideration: (1) development of an expanded assessment approach and possible treatment planning, 2) an inventory on stressors and resilience in light of attachment to possibly be conducted with clients (something that lays the groundwork for our clinical regulatory activity with clients), and (3) a possible engagement of the Allostasis model for psychoeducation in counselling.

Practical activities follow. First, each of us will have a chance to complete our own inventory on stress. Next, identification and working with in-session stressors and resilience  in a case study with a focus on optimal regulation of stress and emotion follows. Finally, a further option for client work along with valuable consideration of psychoeducation with a focus on our ethical duty to do no harm will be considered.