This Is Not a Thought: A Post-Structural Exploration of Cognitive Defusion

Phoenix Therapists' Hub is proud to host This Is Not a Thought: A Post-Structural Exploration of Cognitive Defusion , presented by David Meer, LPC. This event reflects our commitment to enhancing connections among therapists in the Valley and serving as a central hub for professional growth, education, and community. At the Hub, we aim to provide a space where therapists can come together to share knowledge, strengthen their practices, and support one another in their work as mental health professionals.

Summary

This Is Not a Thought: A Post-Structural Exploration of Cognitive Defusion (1.5 CE Hours) introduces clinicians to the concept of cognitive defusion through the lens of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), with added attention to language, identity, and context.

This training explores how thoughts become fused with self-concept and how sociocultural messages shape internal experiences. Clinicians will learn how to help clients step back from unhelpful thoughts using metaphors, visual strategies, and experiential techniques. The training also examines the limitations of traditional cognitive approaches and invites participants to consider how thought patterns are influenced by culture, power, and language.

Designed for therapists who want to expand their understanding of cognitive defusion, this course combines practical tools with thoughtful reflection on the nature of thought and identity in clinical work.

Learning Objectives:

1. Critique the limitations of traditional CBT in addressing sociocultural and identity-based experiences of distress.
2. Analyze the implications of cognitive fusion through a sociocultural and post-structural lens, including its relationship to power, identity, and internalized norms.
3. Define cognitive fusion and defusion within the framework of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
4. Identify common clinical examples of fused thinking and explain how fusion contributes to psychological suffering.
5. Describe how language, cultural memes, and relational frames shape internal narratives and reinforce identity-based fusion.
6. Create original metaphors for cognitive defusion to use in clinical practice.

*Neurodiverse Counseling Services has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7531. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. Neurodiverse Counseling Services is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.

**Contact us at admin@neurodiversecounseling.com for accommodation requests.