Discusses the clinical study of grief from classical to modern times. Identifies emotional, cognitive, behavioral, social, and physical responses to loss. Describes resilience to loss and explain what may increase the likelihood of this response. Discusses the role of grief counseling and when it may be useful. Describes an intervention model for dealing with loss and grief. Explains the differences between normal and complicated grief. Discusses the treatment of grief in children and adolescents.
Identifies pharmacological, herbal, and integrative approaches useful in remission-oriented management of unipolar depression/major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder. Outlines the issues of neurotransmitter-affecting medications, associated side effects, and interactions with other medications, including drugs used in dental practice. Discusses the optimal strategies for treatment augmentation in cases of treatment-resistant depression. Discusses experimental treatments for depression (e.g., transcranial magnetic therapy and vagus nerve stimulation) with patients.
Describes the aspects of the relationship between humans and their pets that contribute to health and well-being. Cites the scientific evidence on the relationship between pets, life, and health. Identifies the psychological basis for the relationship between humans and their pets. Describes the varying roles of pets as therapeutic agents.
Identifies the basic neurophysiology, pathogenesis, etiology, and diagnosis of affective unipolar disorder/major depressive disorder (UD/MDD) and bipolar disorder (BD). Discusses the involvement of various chemical imbalances in these affective disorders, including neurotransmitters and neurohormones such as serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine and cortisol. Lists the differential diagnosis of these conditions and the management of both disorders. Describe the spectrum of available pharmacological, psychotherapeutic, and experimental therapies for both conditions.
Describes the origin and goals of the new “positive psychology.” Lists the factors that contribute to happiness and life satisfaction. Discusses the research findings related to happiness and life satisfaction. Lists several activities and exercises that can enhance happiness and life satisfaction.
Describes probiotics and their relationship to bacteria, yeasts, parasites, and viruses. Discusses how probiotics affect the healthy immune system. Explains antibiotics and antibiotic resistance. Describes how probiotics can be helpful in preventing and treating certain diseases and conditions. Identify good food sources of probiotics and prebiotics. Identify how to select probiotic supplements considering their risks and benefits. Describes how healthcare professionals can use this information to improve patient education and outcomes.
Explains how the body responds to and processes stress. Identifies the impact of stress on risk for heart disease and the physiological mechanisms that may mediate this link. Describes the role stress may play in increasing risk for health problems across the life span. Identifies a number of interventions for reducing stress.
Explains the diagnosis and newest treatments for skin conditions and skin allergies. Describes new laser treatments for wrinkles and other skin conditions. Lists the most effective preventive and treatment methods for skin cancer. Identifies coping strategies for patients with psychosocial issues caused by chronic skin conditions. Identifies future trends in medical and cosmetic skin treatments.