1.       May  1^st 2009     THE BODY   Presented by Leon Evans, MD

The Neurobiology of Stress, Depression, and Traumatic States

States of stress, trauma and depression are abnormal states which, when chronic, initiate a series of neuroendocrine changes that adversely affect underlying biologic processes.  This talk will review the latest findings in the neurobiology of stress states and particularly focus on the newly discovered relationship between emotional and immune function.  Possible therapeutic interventions to monitor and address inflammation and Hypothalamic-Pituitary axis dysfunction will be discussed.

2.       June  19^th 2009   THE MIND  Presented by Leon Evans, MD and Janet Solyntjes, MA,

Psychological Effects of Stress and Mindfulness Based Interventions

Chronic stress, depression and trauma initiate a series of biological dysfunctions involving both immune and endocrine systems that not only effect biology but psychology as well.  In addition, both neurotic and traumatic psychological formations add to and perpetuate the stress response. This talk will focus on altered emotional response, and therapeutic psychological repair.

Janet Solyntjes, MA, has taught meditation and body awareness practices for over 20 years. She is the Co-founder of the Center for Courageous Living, Adjunct Professor at Naropa University, a Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction teacher,  a senior Shambhala Training director and the past Director of the Boulder Shambhala Meditation Center.

3.       July  31^st 2009    THE SPIRIT  Presented by Leon Evans, MD and Susan Coppage Evans, D.Min. MA

Assess Spirituality and Incorporate Beliefs in Healing Body and Mind

There is a growing body of scientific literature describing the positive benefits of spiritual consciousness in overcoming states of stress, depression and trauma.  In conjunction with biologic and psychological interventions, assessing and encouraging spiritual growth can be an important part of a natural healing capability.  This talk will review the current literature and suggest both assessment tools and methodologies for integrating spirituality into clinical practice.

Susan Coppage Evans, D.Min., M.A.,   After two decades in the psychiatric field, Susan now provides support for mind, body and spiritual wellness through her consulting company, WholeHearted, Inc.  She is a founding partner of the Eating Recovery Center, is founding president of Creation Spirituality Communities, an international organization which creates, supports, and networks alternative creation-centered, interfaith churches, communities and individuals, and is a facilitator of One River: a Creation Spirituality Community, meeting in Boulder and Lakewood, CO.