Neuroscience of Anxiety Disorders

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How to Take This Course:

• 1 View Course Worksheet -  View the course worksheet or print it out to review later
• 2 Read the Course Material -  As you read through, mark your answers on the course worksheet to be prepared for the exam
• 3 Take Exam -  You must achieve a score of 75% or higher in order to earn credit for the course.
• You don't need to pay for an exam until AFTER you pass it. If you have any questions or need more information, please click here.

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Target Audience: Psychologists
Instructional Level: Introductory

CE Course Description

This comprehensive continuing education course provides licensed psychologists with an in-depth, interdisciplinary exploration of the neurobiological underpinnings of anxiety, integrated with culturally responsive clinical practice. Designed in accordance with the APA Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct (2017) and APA's Guidelines for Continuing Education, this course equips clinicians to ethically and effectively incorporate neuroscience into their treatment of anxiety disorders across diverse cultural contexts. Psychologists will explore core brain systems involved in anxiety, including the amygdala, prefrontal cortex, and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, and how neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and norepinephrine modulate fear and stress responses. The course delves into current research on neuroplasticity, epigenetics, trauma, and stress physiology while examining how systemic factors such as racism, immigration, cultural stigma, and spiritual worldviews influence the development and expression of anxiety. Through clinically rich modules, participants will learn to apply this knowledge in psychotherapy, medication management, psychoeducation, and collaborative care, while navigating ethical, cultural, and practical complexities. Case vignettes and real-world scenarios are used to enhance learning and facilitate the integration of neuroscience with cultural humility, trauma-informed care, and ethical decision-making. Attention is given to avoiding neuro-reductionism and ensuring psychological explanations do not pathologize culturally normative experiences.

Courseware Supervisor: Ryan C. Warner, Ph.D., CRC

Author: Jay Trambadia, Psy.D.

CE Course Objectives

1. Identify key brain structures and neurotransmitter systems involved in anxiety.
2. Explain how the stress response system contributes to anxiety disorders across diverse populations.
3. Describe how genetic and environmental factors, including trauma and systemic oppression, influence anxiety vulnerability.
4. Discuss the role of neuroplasticity in psychological healing, especially within culturally informed frameworks.
5. Evaluate emerging neuroscience research relevant to anxiety treatment and its limitations regarding cultural generalizability.
6. Integrate neuroscientific and cultural knowledge into ethical, person-centered psychotherapy and medication management.

Course Date: 2025-11-18

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We will disclose, in advance, any proprietary interest in any product, instrument, device, service, or material to be discussed during the learning event, as well as the source of any third-party compensation related to the presentation. This policy applies to both our organization and contractors. If such proprietary/financial interests exist, we will publish a disclaimer in marketing or instructional materials for a course.

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If you require ADA or other special needs accommodations, please contact us by email: psychce@edcompassedu.com or by phone 1-800-240-6978, so arrangements can be made.

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