(Episode 8)

The Power of Improv to Improve Mental Health with Dr. Clay Drinko

Clay Drinko, PhD explores how improv can be used to improve mental health. Dr. Soles and Dr. Drinko present the tenets of improv, how they relate to therapy, and how they can be useful for specific mental health concerns. The presenters review the latest research on improv’s effect on anxiety, aging, creativity and more. Find out how an experiment in saying “yes and…” to his daughter led, Dr. Drinko to a shift in his own parenting and how simple, everyday games can help with everything from connecting with others to embracing your mistakes.

Continuing Education

This Podcast Episode Provides 1 Hour of CE Credit

Course Description

Clay Drinko, PhD explores how improv can be used to improve mental health. Dr. Soles and Dr. Drinko present the tenets of improv, how they relate to therapy, and how they can be useful for specific mental health concerns. The presenters review the latest research on improv’s effect on anxiety, aging, creativity and more.

Instructor's bio

Dr. Clay Drinko is an educator, expert contributor at Psychology Today, and the author of Theatrical Improvisation, Consciousness, and Cognition and the forthcoming Simon and Schuster book Play your Way Sane: 120 Everyday Games to Help you Calm Down, Cheer Up, Stop Spiraling, and Embrace Uncertainty. He earned his Ph.D. in drama and theatre studies from Tufts University and has master’s degrees in education and performance studies. Clay started improvising over two decades ago and experienced firsthand the powerful effects of finding flow onstage. Thus started a lifelong journey to understand how improv affects the brain and how to harness this understanding to improve our everyday lives.
Dr. Tamara Soles' Bio

Learning Objectives

  • Students will be able to describe how principles of improvisation can be useful in therapy.
  • Students will be able to identify tools used to increase mindfulness in clients.
  • Students will be able to identify certain simple improv games used to lower anxiety
  • .

How to Take the Course

Once you choose a course that interests you, simply click the enroll button to register for the course. You will be prompted to create your login information and then be directed to the course curriculum where you will have access to the episode, the learning objectives, and the post-test. Once you successfully complete the post-test, your CE certificate will appear on screen and can be downloaded.You can listen to the course episode directly on the course website or on your favourite podcast app.

How to Get Your Certificate

After listening to the course episode, you will be prompted to take the multiple choice post-test. To receive your continuing education credit certificate, you need to achieve a score of 70% of more. You may retake the post-test up to three times. Once successfully completed, the certificate will appear in your course area where you can download it.

Commercial Support

There is no commercial support for this course. Dr. Clay Drinko has a book Play your Way Sane: 120 Everyday Games to Help you Calm Down, Cheer Up, Stop Spiraling, and Embrace Uncertainty.

FAQ

For additional answers to our FAQ or for information on our policies such as accommodations, non-discrimination policy and grievance policy, click here

Course Format

This course is presented in audio format via podcast interview. The course is designed for post-doctoral psychologists and is an introductory level.

Look what my podcast listeners have to say

Dr. Tamara Soles skillfully dives into meaningful conversations about a variety of topics that not only relate to therapy but also translate to many other aspects of life. This podcast is thought-provoking and keeps the listener completely engaged. The exchanges are lighthearted, humorous at times, and purposeful. A worthwhile listen, simply delightful!
 
Aldem
-

I have enjoyed every single episode of this podcast. Dr. Soles and her guests have done an awesome job talking about meaningful topic and sending important message about mental health while still keeping the discussions entertaining and light. Love it!
Miglena
-

This inspiring and thought provoking hour has 50 minutes that will elevate your practice and life.
Rachel R.
-

Dr. Soles is very down to earth and relatable, yet professional. She asks excellent questions and makes important points. She manages to make her guests feel comfortable and elicits a friendly vibe. As a therapist I find myself learning, as well as relating to the speakers. Thank you for this excellent podcast!
 
Anne
-

Questions?

Contact us with any questions or feedback. You can also visit our FAQ for more information on how the continuing education program works. 

Continuing Education Approvals

Dr. Tamara Soles is approved by the American Psychological Association and the Canadian Psychological Association to offer continuing education for psychologists. Dr. Tamara Soles maintains responsibility for the program.

CPA continuing Education Sponsor