Stress is one of the largest contributors to absenteeism and staff turnover. This session will offer an understanding of how our brains respond to stress and anxiety, as well as their limiting effects on sleep and our ability to function optimally in cognitive tasks such as problem-solving and creativity. Evidence based psychological theories such as cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), along with practical tools will be explored to enhance emotional resilience and performance in the workplace.

Why is it that we sometimes find ourselves engaging in lifestyle habits and behaviours that are unhelpful in the long term and ultimately contribute to our daily stress? This session will draw on a psychological understanding of how habits and ‘crutches’ that we rely on to cope can move us away from our values. Practical guidance on techniques such as mindfulness will be introduced to support you in the recognition and pursuit of what’s important to you.

Positive psychology involves shining a light on the capabilities and values of a person and their workplace, rather than focussing on what’s ‘wrong’. This session will support you in identifying your own unique character strengths and what you bring to your organisation. It will also provide guidance on how to build a workplace environment that caters for employees’ basic psychological needs and fosters intrinsic motivation, growth and positivity, even in the face of a challenging climate.

Humans have an innate attraction to the natural world. Time spent in natural outdoor environments is scientifically proven to result in physiological and psychological benefits, such as lowered blood pressure and improved mood.  Informed by mindfulness and ecotherapy, this session will introduce activities to support a deep and restorative connection with nature. It will also advise on the various wellbeing benefits of bringing the outdoors into the workplace, such as through green offices and walk and talk meetings.

Research shows that mindfulness can be a great tool to improve emotional wellbeing, stress and sleep. This seminar will introduce the concept of mindfulness, briefly explore the neuroscience behind it and provide opportunity for guided mindfulness practices. There will also be ideas about how you can incorporate this practice into your busy, day to day lives. 

People spend a great deal of time identifying areas for development. But why is it that the goals we set for ourselves and others are not always realised? This session draws upon psychological models to understand the process of behaviour change and the pivotal role of self-regulation. Practical solutions to facilitative turning intentions into lasting change are discussed.

Research suggests that less than 10% of what is learnt on a training course is actually transferred back to the workplace. This session will introduce Dr Cooley’s Model for Optimal Learning and Transfer (MOLT). Numerous psychologically-informed recommendations are provided, starting with what can be done to best prepare staff before a training course commences, how the training experience itself can be adapted to increase the likelihood of learning transfer, and what provisions can be made in the workplace environment to support staff in recognising transfer opportunities and in making successful changes.