Menopause (3 CE)
As a woman enters menopause, physical, psychological and relational changes can combine to make this phase of life a difficult one. Common myths and gender stereotypes may also be internalized and make this transition more difficult than it needs to be. This presentation provides information about the symptoms of menopause and how different cultural groups contextualize them. It describes the medical problems and appropriate tests to assess a woman’s health. In the psychological domain, this course describes the typical emotional and lifestyle issues that arise, particularly treatment models that address gender roles and internalized expectations about self-sacrifice. Therapists are also educated about different medical treatments to which they must refer clients if physical symptoms are severe.
Course Level: Beginner, Intermeridate
Course By: Jennifer Kolb, LCSW
Jennifer Kolb, LCSW; Social Work Consultant, reviewed and determined the course meets requirements for continuing education in the field of social work. This course is appropriate for masters and clinical level social workers. Jennifer graduated with a Master’s degree in Social Work with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Louisville, Kentucky. She specializes in school-based psychotherapy with children and adolescents, as well as licensing exam coaching and preparation.
Author: Patricia Patton-Lehn, Ph.D.
Target Audience: Introductory and Intermediate; LMFTs, Social Workers, LPCCs, Nurses, Substance Abuse Counselors, and mental health clinicians.
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
- Name the physical symptoms that are commonly associated with perimenopause, menopause and post-menopause
- Assess and treat psychological and sociological dynamics commonly associated with mid-life transitions
- Understand and be able to describe various treatment options, including alternative methods for coping with symptoms
- Teach and support clients in writing a "new narrative" for the mid-life years based upon empowerment and individual choice.