Formulation of complex and potentially harmful behaviour

One of the most challenging aspects of working in forensic contexts is responding to behaviours that have the potential to cause significant harm (e.g., violence, threats, harmful sexual behaviour, stalking). To work effectively with such clients, professionals need to be able to formulate the client’s behaviour; i.e. understand and explain the behaviour and harm potential, and use knowledge this to guide risk management and intervention. Formulation of problem behaviour is particularly important in cases where there are multiple interacting comorbidities and co-occurring biopsychosocial challenges; in client groups with whom it can be difficult to establish a rapport; and in cases where there is a high risk of inconsistent management across agencies and over time. 

The aim of this workshop is to teach a method of formulating problematic and potentially harmful client behaviour that goes beyond the application of structured risk assessment guides. The workshop will involve both didactic learning and case study-based practice. Participants will finish the workshop with a framework for formulation that they can use to understand and communicate about concerning client behaviour, and to shape risk reduction and intervention efforts. 

This workshop is intended for health and human services professionals who are keen build their ability to work with clients who present with problematic and potentially harmful behaviour towards others.

Facilitator

This workshop will be lead by Professor Troy McEwan, School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University. 

Troy's research interests focus on improving understanding, assessment, and treatment of problem behaviour, with a particular interest in stalking, intimate partner and family violence, and deliberate firesetting. She has expertise in the development and evaluation of risk assessment instruments for these and other behaviours such as violence and sexual offending.

In addition to her research role, Troy is a clinical and forensic psychologist who has worked in both inpatient and community forensic mental health settings since 2008. She continues her clinical practice as a Principal Psychologist at the Victorian Institute of Forensic Mental Health (Forensicare). Troy is the director of Swinburne's postgraduate forensic psychology research and training degrees, teaching into the Doctor of Psychology (Clinical and Forensic) and the Graduate Diploma in Forensic Psychology and coordinating industry placements for these degrees. Troy also provides regular education and training to practitioners in the fields of mental health, criminal justice, and social services around Australia and internationally. She is the Immediate Past President of the Australian and New Zealand Association of Psychiatry, Psychology and Law, and sits on the editorial boards of the journals Criminal Justice and Behavior, Journal of Family Violence, and the Journal of Threat Assessment and Management.

Registration

Registration includes morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea.

Non-ANZAPPL Members: $350
ANZAPPL Members: $300

Please click here to register.