Introduction

Presenter: Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes introduces the PIECES model for understanding mental health and life balance.

PIECES Model Overview

Physical Dimension: Health, energy, and pain management impact overall mood and cognitive function. Chronic conditions or poor health exacerbate mental health issues.

Interpersonal Dimension: Relationships, attachment, and social support are key to emotional stability. Healthy attachment increases neurotransmitters like serotonin and oxytocin, contributing to better moods and higher pain tolerance.

Emotional Dimension: Addressing distress tolerance, regulation, and emotional intelligence is essential. Negative emotions like anger, guilt, and resentment need to be understood and managed effectively.

Cognitive Dimension: Thoughts based on past traumas or outdated schemas contribute to ongoing distress. Cognitive distortions can throw hormones and neurotransmitters out of balance, affecting mental and physical health.

Environmental Dimension: Factors like light, air quality, and temperature directly impact mood and energy. Simple changes in environment, like improving light exposure or reducing pollutants, can improve mental health.

Spiritual Dimension: Connection to one’s values and a sense of belonging play a significant role in mental health. Misalignment between values and behavior can lead to moral injury and feelings of isolation.

Issues with Current Treatment Approaches

Interaction of PIECES

The Role of Counselors and Therapists

Multidisciplinary Referrals: It’s essential for therapists to work with other professionals (e.g., dieticians, physical therapists) to address a client’s physical health and environmental factors.

Therapeutic Relationship: The bond between client and therapist is more crucial than any specific technique in achieving long-term success.

Client-Centered Approach: Dr. Snipes stresses the importance of involving clients in their treatment plan, empowering them to decide what dimensions of their life they are most motivated to address.

Conclusion