 James Spira, PhD ~ Phone Call-In
Thursday, November 6, 2008, 11:30am-12:30pm Dr. Spira is a practicing psychologist with 10 years experience in treating returning veterans, and conducting research on the impact of mTBI and PTSD, as well as discovering optimal treatments for these ailments. He is the Senior Manager, Psychology; Program Manager, Psychology & Technology Clinical Research of the Center for Distributed Learning; Science and Engineering Group; RTI International. He is also a Clinical Professor, Department of Psychiatry; University of California, San Diego and an Adjunct Faculty for the Graduate Education & Training; Naval Medical Center San Diego and Alliant International University, California School of Professional Psychology. Dr Spira is the former Head, Division of Health Psychology, Naval Medical Center, San Diego, and has trained clinicians worldwide in cutting edge treatments for mTBI and PTSD in combat veterans. The distinguishing feature of this class is that it focuses heavily on the specific blast-related forms of injury found in returning OIF/OEF veterans. The class covers current assessment techniques and treatment plans for concussive injuries associated with military combat (as well as most civilian injuries). Because most combat veterans with traumatic brain injury (TBI) have associated comorbidities, treatment strategies that consider cognitive and behavioral dysfunction in light of PTSD, , pain and physical disability, and prior traumas are emphasized. Please Note: This Question-and-Answer session is conducted via Telephone Conferencing. Participants are provided with a Access Phone Number, for which they will be charged through their long distance provider. For most long distance plans, this should be very inexpensive. In cases where the long distance charges are a barrier, we encourage the use of Skype or other similar services. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions and follow-ups with Dr Spira on the topic of treating post-combat TBI. It is envisioned primarily as a follow-up opportunity for participants in the "Advanced Issues" class, but anyone with questions on this topic is invited to attend. |
