Abstract:

The aim of this presentation is to introduce clinicians to the “Soldier Mode”. A mode specifically developed by the military for military service. This presentation will assist you understand what is the “Soldier Mode” and how it is developed. You will learn how it is adaptive, when it becomes maladaptive and how Schema Therapy can help. Understanding how military service shapes an individual and looking beyond PTSD in veterans, is crucial to working with military personnel. Whilst this presentation is tailored to an Australian Army soldier perspective, it is transferrable to other Defence Forces and services, Police and emergency services. Some have even identified links with corrective services.

About the Presenters:                   

Megan Fry:

Megan is a Clinical Psychologist with 15 years experience. Megan operates her own private practice in Brisbane, QLD Australia. As an ex-serving soldier and military Psychologist, Megan has spent her career working with military personnel (current serving and ex-serving). Since obtaining her accreditation as an Advanced Individual Schema Therapist, Megan has developed a unique schema therapy approach when working with the “Soldier Mode”, which has resulted in improved clinical outcomes in this population in the therapy room. Megan presented on this topic at the International Society of Schema Therapy (ISST) Inspire conference in Amsterdam in May 2018. Megan is currently completing a PhD at Griffith University, QLD, Australia, to investigate the potential of a novel Schema Therapy group intervention to assist military personnel transitioning from the military.