3 Hours | 3 CEs
This on-demand professional training program on Behavioral Health Aspects of Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) Axis Dysfunction is presented by Jerrod Brown, PhD.
This badge-earning program can be shared digitally on platforms like LinkedIn or your resume and counts towards a certificate. Enroll in this program to earn credit towards the Integrated Behavioral Health Certificate and share your new digital credentials with prospective employers and colleagues.
The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis plays a critical role in communication between the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands. This includes the regulation of hormones and neurotransmitters that influence everything from digestion and metabolism to mood and stress response. For instance, the HPA axis regulates the release of the hormone cortisol in response to the experience of physiological and/or psychological stress. Any dysfunction in the HPA axis may manifest in health consequences, including chronic stress, mental health, physical health, and sleep problems. Causes of such HPA axis dysfunction could include trauma, infections, toxins, or poor diet.
Careful consideration of the HPA axis during the screening and assessment process can help inform the individualization of interventions. Such interventions could include addressing environmental or psychological stressors, sleep improvement strategies, improved diet, and other healthy living practices, all of which can improve short- and long-term health outcomes for the individual.
This program is intended for professionals who are interested in learning more about HPA axis dysfunction and its implications for mood, behavior, cognition, and physical health. Practical tips, strategies, and solutions are shared throughout this program with the goal of improving screening, goal planning, and intervention practices. Empirically-based research findings and case study examples are highlighted throughout this program.
Intended Audience
This on-demand professional training program is intended for mental health and other allied professionals
Experience Level
This on-demand professional training program is appropriate for beginner, intermediate, and advanced level clinicians.
CE / CPD Credit
APA, ASWB, CPA, NBCC Click here for state and other regional board approvals.
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this program you will be able to:
Describe the basic components and processes of the HPA axis
Describe the physiological and psychological consequences of increases and decreases in HPA axis activity
Describe how exposure to stress, trauma, and adversity early in life can impact the functioning of the HPA axis
Identify the causes, symptoms, and conditions of HPA Axis dysfunction
Describe the role of HPA dysfunction in the manifestation of psychopathology across the lifespan
Describe methods to improve and maximize the functioning of the HPA axis
Describe the implications of HPA axis functioning in mental health and chemical health treatment settings
Curriculum
1. Introduction
2. HPA Axis - Part 1
3. HPA Axis - Part 2
4. HPA Axis - Part 3
5. Anger, Aggression, Violence, & Other Problematic Behaviors
6. Screening Considerations
7. Interventions
Develop a Specialty Area of Practice
Transforming mental health professionals into experts
Expert Instructors
Professional training developed and delivered by the field's leading experts
CE Credit
Earn CE credit for meaningful professional training that will elevate your practice
Convenience & Flexibility
Learn at your own pace, from wherever you might be!