Webinar Encourages Happiness During COVID-19
May 22, 2020
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to upend the daily lives of individuals around
the world, many people are experiencing feelings of stress and a loss of control.
In response to this, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine’s (PCOM) Ashley
Poole (PsyD ’20), predoctoral intern at PCOM’s Center for Brief Therapy, and Brad Rosenfield, PsyD, associate professor and practicum coordinator, clinical psychology, recently hosted a webinar titled, “How to Build Resilience and a Happy, Productive
Life in the Time of COVID-19.” The webinar was open to the entire PCOM community and
addressed some of the current issues many people are facing and how they can work
to regain a sense of control in their lives. The program also discussed how to increase
happiness and resilience in times of uncertainty.
“The purpose of this webinar was to encourage and remind people that even though things
have changed, there are things that we still have control over,” said Ms. Poole. “Focusing
on what you have control over can add to happiness. The media often reminds us of
what we can’t do, but this webinar was focused on what we can do.”
Keeping the webinar interactive was a primary focus for Ms. Poole and Dr. Rosenfield.
In addition to a live presentation, the webinar featured a real-time comment section
for audience participation. Attendees were able to ask questions as the presentation
progressed, as well as answer questions posed to them by the moderators.
“We wanted to build on the concept of stress reduction to show people how they can
actually improve their happiness during these difficult times,” said Ms. Poole. “Showing
people the resources available to them can be the inspiration they need to pursue
happiness further.” One example focused on pursuing happiness through education. Participants
were encouraged to explore new skills and topics through resources such as free online
courses offered by higher ed institutions.
Though the program was only available to the PCOM community, Ms. Poole plans to make
a recording available for those who wish to watch and learn more.
Learn more about PCOM's response to COVID-19.
Learn more about PCOM's Center for Brief Therapy.
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About Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Founded in 1899, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) has trained thousands
of highly competent, caring physicians, health practitioners and behavioral scientists
who practice a “whole person” approach to care—treating people, not just symptoms.
PCOM operates three campuses (PCOM, PCOM Georgia and PCOM South Georgia) and offers doctoral degrees in clinical psychology, educational psychology, osteopathic
medicine, pharmacy, physical therapy and school psychology, and graduate degrees in
applied behavior analysis, applied positive psychology, biomedical sciences, forensic
medicine, medical laboratory science, mental health counseling, non profit leadership
and population health management, organizational development and leadership, physician
assistant studies, school psychology, and public health management and administration.
PCOM students learn the importance of health promotion, research, education and service
to the community. Through its community-based Healthcare Centers, PCOM provides care
to medically underserved populations. For more information, visit pcom.edu or call 215-871-6100.
For more information, contact:
Daniel McCunney
Associate Director, News and Media Relations
Email: danielmc1@pcom.edu
Office: 215-871-6304 | Cell:
267-449-1360