Once Upon a Time: Exploring Co-Occurring Disorders

 This presentation will utilize cultural contexts to enlighten, intrigue and educate the audience regarding mental health and addiction. In this session, the link between genetics, the environment and the effects of coping with life stressors via addictive processes will be discussed. Simplifying the addictive process into relatable narratives will be introduced. To conclude, suggestions regarding modalities and concepts that are conducive to the healing process will be considered. 

Objectives

•  Understand the progression of mental health from inception on.
•  Breakdown the human makeup to explain the affects of mental health. 
•  Discuss the internal and external chaos that proceed addiction. 
•  Explore the recovery process, including concepts and modalities that promote healing.

About Iona Cunningham, LPC, LADC

 Iona Cunningham received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Minor in Visual Communications in 2005 from Loyola University Chicago and a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology in 2010 from University of Central Oklahoma. She is trained in a variety of therapy modalities and utilizes Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), play therapy, holistic, and art-based interventions with clients of all ages who struggle with mental health, substance use, trauma, or a combination of the three. Iona has over 10 years of experience working in the mental health field with people of all ages. She especially enjoys working with individuals and families who struggle with addiction and trauma and with those who suffer with dual diagnoses.