We are plagued during this current global pandemic by a hesitancy to take the required vaccines. This is a serious problem that severely impacts the safety of all of us and the ultimate attainment of the much required herd immunity. The fact that very effective vaccines exist makes the issue of hesitancy frustrating to many and intolerable to some. As a clinical psychologist and group dynamics specialist, I have been pondering the potential value structured, interactive group discussions can play in shifting vaccine hesitant individuals along the readiness for change continuum.
Dr. Debra Kissen is CEO of Light On Anxiety CBT Treatment Center. Dr. Kissen specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for anxiety and related disorders. Dr. Kissen is the author of the Panic Workbook for Teens, Rewire Your Anxious Brains for Teens: Using CBT, Neuroscience, and Mindfulness to Help You End Anxiety, Panic, and Worry (The Instant Help Solutions Series) and Break Free from Intrusive Thoughts: An Evidence-Based Guide for Managing Fear and Finding Peace. Dr. Kissen also has a special interest in the principles of mindfulness and their application for anxiety disorders. Dr. Kissen has presented her research on CBT and mindfulness-based treatments for anxiety and related disorders at regional and national conferences. Dr. Kissen is the Co-Chair of the Anxiety and Depression Association of America Public Education Committee. Dr. Kissen was the recipient of the 2020 Gratitude for Giving Spirit Award and the 2018 Anxiety Depression Association of America Member of Distinction Award.
Learn more about Dr. Kissen and her own journey through past anxiety & panic disorder.