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Relational Density in the Clinic: Functionally Analyzing Complex Frames within ACT and Language Training with Dr. Dana Paliliunas & Dr. Jordan Belisle

Dr. Dana Paliliunas & Dr. Jordan Belisle

Connections Behavior Planning and Intervention is excited to welcome Dr. Dana Paliliunas, BCBA, and Dr. Jordan Belisle, BCBA, for a webinar Behavior Analysts! This session will focus on the topic of RFT and Relational Density Theory as they apply to clinical work with clients.

NOTE: THIS PAGE INCLUDES INFORMATION FOR THE SECOND OF THREE SESSIONS IN THE SERIES. TO REGISTER FOR THE FULL SERIES (at a discount), PLEASE VISIT THE SERIES PAGE HERE

Session Abstract

Relational training technologies are becoming center-stage in the field of behavior analysis as evidence mounts that relational responding is not only an empirical fact, but underlies our greatest successes and our greatest struggles as human beings. Yet, a functional analysis that directly evaluates relational responding in context has been slow to emerge and can be achieved through an RDT framework.

In this presentation, we will explore three major areas where RDT is being applied and review how to conduct a functional analysis of relational framing using a multidimensional scaling procedure. First, we will examine changes in relational framing in response to PEAK intervention (Dixon, 2014-2016), a language and cognitive training program for children with language-learning differences. RDT allows for an analysis of how relational frames are reacting to instruction and can be probed when teaching new skills. Second, we will explore how relational framing patterns link into the concept of psychological flexibility using the SELF and the SELF-Y to guide ACT-based interventions, such as Values-Based Self-Management with adults and Accept-Identify-Move) with children. Finally, we will discuss applying this analysis to examine workplace climate and utilizing a Prosocial intervention framework to support values-based and affirming practice.

This presentation is designed as a starting point to fostering highly adaptive, flexible, and appetitive networks to engineer affirming and values-based contexts for clients and those who serve them.

Learning Objectives:

  1. Describe how multidimensional scaling provides a functional analysis of relational frames
  2. Discuss applications of RDT to evaluating relational training
  3. Describe applications of RDT in developing and evaluating ACTr and Prosocial interventions for clients and staff

About the Presenters

Dr. Dana Paliliunas, BCBA, is an assistant professor in the psychology department at Missouri State University. Previously, she received her Ph.D. in rehabilitation with a specialization in behavior analysis and therapy from Southern Illinois University Carbondale. Prior to her doctorate studies, Dr. Paliliunas obtained her teaching license in special education and became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), working in schools as a teacher and behavior specialist.

In general, her research interests include behavior therapeutic approaches to psychological and social-emotional challenges and the relationship between language processes and psychological well-being. Her applied research focuses on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for prevention and intervention among various populations and settings, including children, adolescents, and university students, as well as parents and care providers. Dr. Paliliunas is a co-author of the AIM: A Behavior Analytic Curriculum for Social-emotional Development in Children, which incorporates mindfulness, ACT, and behavior management techniques to target social-emotional development among children.

Dr. Jordan Belisle, BCBA, is an associate professor at Missouri State University and founder of HUB Research Lab (Humans Understanding Behavior, graduate research lab) and co-developer of the LOTUS Project (applied engagement and dissemination), BEAR Lab (undergraduate research development laboratory), and DELTA Project (de-affiliated doctoral student support program). His research focuses on applying advanced models of human language and cognition in various applied settings, from supporting neurodivergent learners and developing mental health technologies (clinical behavior analysis), to social and climate justice initiatives. He has authored 2 books, Research Methods for the Practicing Behavior Analyst (Belisle, Stanley, & Dixon, 2021) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Behavior Analysts (Dixon, Hayes, & Belisle, 2023). Jordan has also published over 80 peer-reviewed research articles and book chapters and co-authored over 200 presentations. This work represents the combined efforts of multiple student research assistants and international collaboration networks.

CEU’s included, and Cost to Attend:

  • 2.0 Learning BACB CEU’s (included with purchase)
  • $40 to attend single session, or $110 for the full series
    • Includes access to the recording and presentation materials, and CEU’s.

Refund Policy: We will provide a full refund to anyone who requests it up to one day before the event. No refunds will be provided for cancellations later than 1 day before the event.

For questions, challenges with registration, or any other needed information, please contact Dusty, Director of Continuing Education and ACE Coordinator for CBPI, LLC, at continuingeducation@connections-behavior.com.

Connections Behavior Planning & Intervention, LLC, is a BACB-Approved ACE Provider (Provider # OP-17-2781). The BACB does not directly sponsor or endorse this event, its speakers, or its content.

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