ODL 346: Trauma-Informed Mindfulness for Military Populations: Bridging the Gap Between Service and Healing

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Please make sure to check with your own state board to ensure the transferability of CE credit for an asynchronous course. Some state boards may place restrictions regarding the modality of training required for ethics credits to be awarded. If this training indicates ethics credits are available, please verify that your state allows them to be earned through an on-demand course format.

Please note: This on-demand webinar is a replay of a live CE event. The format reflects the original presentation and may include live Q&A, transitions, and intermittent audio/visual fluctuations typical of a live recording.

1 CREDIT HOUR APPROVED FOR:

Social Workers
ASWB ACE – 1 CE Credit
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Social Work – 1 Contact Hour
Psychologists
APA – 1 CE Credit
Counselors
NBCC ACEP – 1 Contact Hour
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Mental Health Practitioners – 1 Contact Hour
Addiction Professionals
NAADAC–1 Contact Hour
Nurses
California Board of Registered Nursing – 1 Contact Hour
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Mental Health Practitioners – 1 Contact Hour
Case Managers
CCMC – 1 CE Contact hour

Created On:   7/17/25          Revised On: 4/21/26        

Target Audience:

This course is targeted for social workers, psychologists, counselors, nurses and case managers.

Counselor Skill Groups:

4. Counseling Services

Overview:

This 1-hour training will explore how to leverage mindfulness-based interventions to build resilience and enhance trauma recovery for military members and veterans. Participants will explore the unique challenges faced by this population, the role of mindfulness in trauma recovery, and practical strategies for implementing mindfulness techniques in a culturally sensitive and trauma-informed manner.

Course Objectives:

By the end of the session, the participant will be able to:

  • Identify key aspects of military culture that should inform the delivery of mindfulness-based interventions.
  • Describe the common types of trauma experienced by military personnel and their impact on mental health.
  • Summarize the role of mindfulness, common mindfulness-based interventions, and their potential benefits for trauma recovery in the military population.
  • Develop an action plan for introducing and tailoring mindfulness practices to meet the specific needs of military clients in a trauma-informed therapeutic setting.

Presenter:

Samantha Getha, LCSW and Owner of Waves of Courage Counseling LLC

Samantha “Sam” Getha is a licensed clinical social worker in Alaska and Virginia, specializing in trauma-focused care for military and veteran families, in addition to her experience working with healthcare workers and law enforcement. She earned her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Southern California, focusing on military mental health.

An expert in trauma, including complex PTSD and attachment trauma, Sam brings over 9 years of experience from her roles as a hospital social worker, mental health provider, family advocacy outreach manager, and domestic abuse victim advocate on military installations. Drawing from a lifetime immersed in military culture as a military brat and spouse, she brings a unique perspective and empathy to her work.

Samantha is a certified EMDR therapist and is certified in Trauma-Sensitive Yoga, valuing ongoing education and having taught mindfulness in inpatient and one-on-one settings. She strives to be culturally competent in all aspects of her practice. In her private practice, Waves of Courage Counseling LLC, Sam currently offers one-on-one online therapy sessions for adults 18+, as well as clinical supervision and consultation. She is a Virginia Board-approved supervisor for social workers and contracts with non-profit organizations to expand her reach.

Originally from North Carolina, Sam is a second-generation Filipino American who now resides in Northern Virginia, enjoying outdoor adventures with her husband and dogs.

ODL 345: Navigating Difficult Dialogues: Tools for Effective Communication in the Workplace

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Please make sure to check with your own state board to ensure the transferability of CE credit for an asynchronous course. Some state boards may place restrictions regarding the modality of training required for ethics credits to be awarded. If this training indicates ethics credits are available, please verify that your state allows them to be earned through an on-demand course format.

Please note: This on-demand webinar is a replay of a live CE event. The format reflects the original presentation and may include live Q&A, transitions, and intermittent audio/visual fluctuations typical of a live recording.

5 CREDIT HOURS APPROVED FOR:

Social Workers
ASWB ACE – 5 Cultural Competence CE Credits
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Social Work – 5 Contact Hours
Psychologists
APA – 5 CE Credits
Counselors
NBCC ACEP – 5 Contact Hours
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Mental Health Practitioners – 5 Contact Hours
Addiction Professionals
NAADAC – 5 Contact Hours
Nurses
California Board of Registered Nursing – 5 Contact Hours
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Mental Health Practitioners – 5 Contact Hours
Case Managers
CCMC – 5 Contact Hours

Created On: 7/1/25          Revised on: 3/27/26           

Target Audience:

This course is targeted for social workers, psychologists, counselors, nurses and case managers.

Counselor Skill Group: 

8. Legal, Ethical and Professional Development

Overview:

This training is designed to equip social workers, counselors, nurses, and case managers with the skills and strategies needed to navigate challenging conversations in professional settings. Whether addressing sensitive topics with clients, providing feedback to colleagues, or managing conflicts with supervisors, participants will learn evidence-based techniques to enhance communication, reduce misunderstandings, and foster collaborative solutions. The training emphasizes empathy, self-awareness, and cultural competence while maintaining professionalism and ethical integrity.

Course Objectives:

By the end of the session, the participant will be able to:

  • Identify common barriers to effective communication in challenging workplace conversations and strategies to overcome them.
  • Demonstrate active listening and empathy skills to build rapport and understanding during difficult dialogues.
  • Apply conflict resolution frameworks to address and manage disagreements constructively with colleagues, clients, and supervisors.
  • Develop approaches to maintain self-regulation and professionalism when handling emotionally charged or high-stakes discussions.
  • Evaluate how cultural competence and ethical considerations influence communication dynamics and outcomes in diverse workplace interactions.

Presenter:

Jean Ferguson Ruffin, JD, EdD, Assistant Professor in the Department of Leadership, Research, and School Improvement at the University of West Georgia in Carrollton, Georgia 

Dr. Jean Ferguson Ruffin is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Leadership, Research, and School Improvement at the University of West Georgia in Carrollton, Georgia. She teaches graduate courses in educational leadership, specializing in school law and ethics, educational equity, and culturally proficient leadership. Her research agenda is primarily focused on culturally proficient leadership. Prior to her work in higher education, she worked in K12 education as a consultant, an associate superintendent of schools, and a school improvement specialist.  

ODL 343: Bridging Generations to Combat Isolation: Intergenerational Connections for Improved Well-Being

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Please make sure to check with your own state board to ensure the transferability of CE credit for an asynchronous course. Some state boards may place restrictions regarding the modality of training required for ethics credits to be awarded. If this training indicates ethics credits are available, please verify that your state allows them to be earned through an on-demand course format.

Please note: This on-demand webinar is a replay of a live CE event. The format reflects the original presentation and may include live Q&A, transitions, and intermittent audio/visual fluctuations typical of a live recording.

1 CREDIT HOUR APPROVED FOR:

Social Workers
ASWB ACE – 1 CE Credit
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Social Work – 1 Contact Hour
Psychologists
APA – 1 CE Credit
Counselors
NBCC ACEP – 1 Contact Hour
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Mental Health Practitioners – 1 Contact Hour
Addiction Professionals
NAADAC – 1 Contact Hour
Nurses
California Board of Registered Nursing – 1 Contact Hour
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Mental Health Practitioners – 1 Contact Hour
Case Managers
CCMC – 1 Contact Hour

Created On:   6/24/25         Revised On: 3/30/26         

Target Audience:

This course is targeted for social workers, psychologists, counselors, nurses and case managers.

Counselor Skill Groups: 

6. Case Management
7. Discharge and Continuing Care

Overview:

This training introduces helping professionals to the potential of intergenerational connections as a tool to address isolation and loneliness, and strengthen communities. Participants will learn how fostering relationships across generations can positively impact mental health and emotional well-being. This session will equip attendees with strategies to identify or create opportunities for intergenerational engagement and to support clients in building meaningful and  supportive relationships.

Course Objectives:

By the end of the session, the participant will be able to:

  • Describe the impact of isolation and loneliness across the lifespan and explain how intergenerational connections can mitigate these challenges.
  • Identify opportunities within their professional roles to foster intergenerational relationships and support clients in building meaningful connections.
  • Apply practical strategies to help clients experiencing isolation or loneliness engage with intergenerational resources and relationships in their communities.

Presenter:

Nancy Z. Henkin, Ph.D

Dr. Henkin, the founder and former executive director of the Intergenerational Center at Temple University, is currently serving as a senior fellow at Generations United. Over the past 45 years, she has developed a wide range of cross-age programs, provided consultation to local, national, and international organizations, and published numerous articles and program materials.   Dr. Henkin is a leading authority in intergenerational practice, community building, and lifelong civic engagement/learning. She serves on the International Journal of Intergenerational Relations editorial board and is the recipient of numerous awards, including the Maggie Kuhn Award (Gray Panthers), the Jack Ossofsky Award (National Council on the Aging), the Eisner Prize for Intergenerational Excellence (on behalf of the Intergenerational Center), the Cantor Leadership Award (Elders Share the Arts), and the Intergenerational Champion Award (Generations United).  In 2006, she was elected into the Ashoka Fellowship, a global community of social entrepreneurs.

ODL 342: Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT): An Approach to Improving Emotional Bonds and Attachments

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Please make sure to check with your own state board to ensure the transferability of CE credit for an asynchronous course. Some state boards may place restrictions regarding the modality of training required for ethics credits to be awarded. If this training indicates ethics credits are available, please verify that your state allows them to be earned through an on-demand course format.

Please note: This on-demand webinar is a replay of a live CE event. The format reflects the original presentation and may include live Q&A, transitions, and intermittent audio/visual fluctuations typical of a live recording.

1 CREDIT HOUR APPROVED FOR:

Social Workers
ASWB ACE – 1 CE Credit
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Social Work – 1 Contact Hour
Psychologists
APA – 1 CE Credit
Counselors
NBCC ACEP – 1 Contact Hour
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Mental Health Practitioners – 1 Contact Hour
Addiction Professionals
NAADAC–1 Contact Hour
Nurses
California Board of Registered Nursing – 1 Contact Hour
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Mental Health Practitioners – 1 Contact Hour
Case Managers
CCMC – This course is not approved for CCMC Contact hours

Created On:  6/11/25 Revised On: 3/24/26

Target Audience:

This course is targeted for social workers, psychologists, counselors, and nurses.

Counselor Skill Groups: 

3. Treatment Plan
4. Counseling Services

Overview:

Healthy relationships require self-awareness and effective communication. Grounded in attachment theory, EFT operates on the premise that secure emotional bonds are fundamental to the well-being and longevity of healthy relationships. Through a blend of experiential techniques, empathetic exploration, and restructuring of negative interaction patterns, EFT facilitates a deeper understanding and validation of emotional needs, fostering a secure attachment and enhancing relational satisfaction. EFT offers a structured framework comprising three key stages: de-escalation, restructuring, and consolidation. By creating a safe therapeutic environment, promoting healthier communication patterns and fostering greater emotional accessibility, EFT empowers individuals and couples to cultivate secure attachments and foster resilience and intimacy within their relationships. 

Course Objectives:

By the end of the session, the participant will be able to:

  • Identify attachment formation and style during childhood.
  • Analyze the relationship between core beliefs formed from attachment and unhealthy relationship cycles.
  • Describe Emotionally Focused Therapy as a modality to increase awareness and insight into traumatic events from childhood. 
  • Apply EFT framework and techniques to cultivate secure attachments.

Presenter:

Shama Panjwani, PhD, LPC, ACS, NCC, CCMHC

Dr. Shama Panjwani is an Asian Indian speaker and expert in trauma-informed care, focusing on attachment, immigration, cultural/racial, and intergenerational traumas while integrating holistic wellness approaches to addressing trauma in a culturally competent manner. She is currently a professor in the clinical mental health counseling program at Keiser University. Dr. Panjwani has a private practice, SoHolisticEnergy Counseling & Consultation, LLC, where she provides clinical services to clients and supervisees. She also provides consulting services to organizations and institutions on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and workplace wellness.

Dr. Panjwani has a PhD in counselor education and supervision with a specialization in cross-cultural psychology and organizational leadership. She is a national certified counselor, a certified clinical mental health counselor, a board-certified telemental health provider, licensed professional counselor, and an approved clinical supervisor. 

Her research presentations and publication focus on topics such as reducing mental health stigma, immigration, acculturation, trauma, social justice and advocacy, multiculturalism and diversity, psychedelic-assisted therapy, crisis counseling, as well as approaches used to increase cross-cultural awareness and wellness, and leadership skills within academia and other institutions. She has been working in the mental health field for more than 9 years. She is actively involved in conducting consultations, workshops, and presentations to create awareness and destigmatize mental health and wellness for the BIPOC (black, indigenous, and people of color) community on an individual and organizational level by increasing their access to effective and culturally responsive treatment. 

ODL 340: Human Trafficking Unveiled: Advocacy, Care, and Collaboration for Helping Professionals

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Please make sure to check with your own state board to ensure the transferability of CE credit. Some state boards may place restrictions regarding the modality of training required for ethics credits to be awarded. If this training indicates ethics credits are available, please verify that your state allows them to be earned through an on-demand course format.

Please note: This on-demand webinar is a replay of a live CE event. The format reflects the original presentation and may include live Q&A, transitions, and intermittent audio/visual fluctuations typical of a live recording.

3 CREDIT HOURS APPROVED FOR:
Social Workers
ASWB ACE – 3 CE Credits
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Social Work – 3 Contact Hours
Psychologists
APA – 3 CE Credits
Counselors
NBCC ACEP – 3 Contact Hours
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Mental Health Practitioners – 3 Contact Hours
Addiction Professionals
NAADAC – This course is not approved for NAADAC Contact hours.
Nurses
California Board of Registered Nursing – 3 Contact Hours
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Mental Health Practitioners – 3 Contact Hours
Case Managers
CCMC – 3 Contact Hours

Created On: 5/19/25       Revised On: 3/26/26         

Target Audience:

This course is targeted for social workers, psychologists,  counselors, nurses and case managers.

Overview:

This training on human trafficking is designed for social workers, counselors, case managers, and nurses, equipping them with the knowledge and tools to address human trafficking through a social justice and trauma-informed lens. Participants will explore the prevalence and systemic causes of trafficking, gain insights into engaging survivors with complex trauma, and learn practical strategies for identifying and supporting survivors in healthcare and community settings. The training emphasizes multidisciplinary collaboration to build resilient communities and foster long-term prevention.

Course Objectives:

By the end of the session, the participant will be able to:

  • Explain the prevalence, types, and systemic causes of human trafficking and its intersection with social justice.
  • Analyze the impact of complex trauma on trafficking survivors and its implications for engagement and care.
  • Apply trauma-informed strategies and practical tools for building trust and fostering empowerment with survivors.
  • Evaluate the role of healthcare professionals in identifying and supporting trafficking survivors, including  intervention protocols and barriers to care.
  • Develop actionable strategies for multidisciplinary collaboration to prevent trafficking and build resilient communities.

Presenters:

Evelyn Chumbow, Advocacy & Survivor Leadership Director with The Human Trafficking Legal Center

Evelyn Chumbow is a survivor of child labor trafficking turned anti-trafficking activist and public speaker who focuses her life’s work on ending modern-day slavery. Chumbow was brought to the United States from Cameroon at age 9 and forced to cook, clean, and care for her trafficker’s children. She was never paid for her work, and any hope that she might escape was undermined by the constant beatings she received from her trafficker. After years of captivity, she finally escaped and her trafficker was sentenced to 17 years in prison.

Today, Chumbow works tirelessly to raise awareness and advocate for other survivors in the U.S. and abroad. She has been invited to brief several government agencies about human trafficking from a survivor’s perspective, including the Department of Homeland Security, the FBI, the State Department, and the Department of Justice. Chumbow was appointed by President Obama to serve on the U.S. Advisory Council on Human Trafficking. She strongly believes in the need for professional development for survivors and dedicates her time volunteering at the grassroots level to guide communities on how to create employment opportunities for trafficking survivors. Chumbow was also the inspiration behind the Harriet Tubman Fellowship program. To learn more about this program please visit https://htlegalcenter.org/our-work/harriet-tubman-fellowship/

Wendy Barnes, Author, Educator, and Personal Survivor

In January 2018, Dignity Health welcomed Wendy Barnes, a survivor of child sexual abuse, sex trafficking, and intimate partner violence as Human Trafficking Response Program Coordinator. Wendy is a national speaker, using her own experiences to educate and empower audiences in the fight against exploitation. Her story illustrates how abuse can make a young person vulnerable and serves as an example that freedom and restoration are possible.

Wendy has an associate’s degree in general studies and has written a memoir, And Life Continues: Sex Trafficking and My Journey to Freedom. Wendy also co-authored a chapter in Human Trafficking Is a Public Health Issue: A Paradigm Expansion in the United States (Springer, 2017). Wendy’s has appeared on talk shows such as Dr. Phil and her story has been featured in news features and documentaries including Flesh: Bought and Sold in the U.S.

Wendy has consulted for numerous organizations, including Homeland Security’s Blue Campaign; Via Christi Health, part of Ascension; Not For Sale; and ImPact Virginia. Wendy has also provided education to law enforcement officers and students at numerous universities, including Vanguard University and St. Mary’s College of California. Wendy is a member of the National Survivor Network and the International Survivor Alliance.

Zoe Christine Bellatorre, MAICS

Zoe Christine Bellatorre is a graduate of Fuller Theological Seminary with a Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies with Children at Risk and a Bachelor of Science in Education from Ashland University. She has 10 years of experience in the anti-trafficking field. Furthermore, she is a consultant with NHTTAC and the State Department Trafficking in Persons office. She has also served as the services coordinator with the Avery Center and as a survivor advocate with CAST LA and Dignity Health, responding to survivors of human trafficking in the healthcare system and providing emergency services and advocacy to patients. Zoe is a subject matter expert with specific expertise in familial trafficking. In addition, she serves on the board of Ride My Road and the advisory council of the Resilience Fund with Polaris Project. Highlights include being a published author on the Trafficking in Persons (TIP) report in 2021 (Navigating the Unique Challenges In Familial Trafficking); in the 2023 TIP report (Equity In Survivor Leadership); and in 2024, co-author of Child Trafficking Misconceptions and the Impact of Trauma. Furthermore, she is one of the co-authors of an anthology, “Medical Perspectives in Human Trafficking In Adolescents.” Zoe has trained numerous professionals including healthcare systems and spoken at conferences such as the National Conference on Ending Sexual Exploitation, GRIT, Crimes Against Women, JUST, Build Beyond, and other similar presentations.

ODL 341: Behind the Curtain: Exploring Aging, Identity, and Caregiving Through Theater 

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Please make sure to check with your own state board to ensure the transferability of CE credit for an asynchronous course. Some state boards may place restrictions regarding the modality of training required for ethics credits to be awarded. If this training indicates ethics credits are available, please verify that your state allows them to be earned through an on-demand course format.

1 CREDIT HOUR APPROVED FOR:
Social Workers
ASWB ACE – 1 General CE Credit
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Social Work – 1 Contact Hour
Psychologists
APA – 1 CE Credit
Counselors
NBCC ACEP – 1 Contact Hour
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Mental Health Practitioners – 1 Contact Hour
Addiction Professionals
NAADAC – This course is not approved for NAADAC Contact hours.
Nurses
California Board of Registered Nursing – 1 Contact Hour
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Mental Health Practitioners – 1 Contact Hour
Case Managers
CCMC – 1 Contact Hour

Created On:  5/21/25                   

Target Audience:

This course is targeted for social workers, psychologists,  counselors, nurses and case managers.

Overview:

This 1-hour training uses a dramatic monologue performance as a springboard to examine the emotional and psychological complexities of aging, caregiving, and familial identity. Through the lens of theatrical storytelling, participants will reflect on the lived experiences of older adults and their caregivers, exploring themes of memory, loss, humor, and resilience. The training will integrate discussion, reflective exercises, and clinical applications to enhance empathy and cultural competence among social workers, counselors, and allied professionals working with aging populations.

Course Objectives:

By the end of the session, the participant will be able to:

  • Analyze the psychosocial and emotional dynamics of caregiving and aging as portrayed in the dramatic performance.
  • Identify the role of storytelling and the arts in deepening empathy and understanding of complex family systems in later life.
  • Apply narrative and expressive techniques to clinical or case management settings with older adults and caregivers.

Presenter:

Sara J. English, PhD, LMSW, CPG, and Associate Professor of Social Work at Winthrop University

Dr. Sara J. English is an Associate Professor of Social Work and the faculty advisor for the Gerontology Minor Program at Winthrop University. She is a Certified Gerontology Professional (CPG) and AGE-SW fellow, and has presented her research at local, national, and international venues, including at the University of Bath and the University of Iceland, as well as in South Africa and New Zealand. She serves as the NASW-SC representative to the Alzheimer’s Advisory Board for the South Carolina Lieutenant Governor’s Office on Aging and was recognized by the NASW-SC as the Social Work Educator of the Year for 2022. Dr. English is the faculty representative for Phi Alpha Social Work Honor Society and serves as president of the Winthrop’s chapter of Phi Kappa Phi National Honor Society. 

Dr. English studies the power of non-familial relationships among staff and residents of institutional settings. Dr. English also explores how simple mindfulness practices can enhance mental health and well-being, and was selected as Winthrop University’s Thompson Scholar for the academic year 2023-2024, creating a student-focused mindfulness program. She is passionate about utilizing the arts and mindfulness practices to enhance the lives of older persons and those who love them.

ODL 339: Advance Care Planning for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD): Where Do We Go From Here?

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Please make sure to check with your own state board to ensure the transferability of CE credit for an asynchronous course. Some state boards may place restrictions regarding the modality of training required for ethics credits to be allowed. If this training offers ethics credits, please verify that your state allows them to be earned through an on-demand course format.

Please note: This on-demand webinar is a replay of a live CE event. The format reflects the original presentation and may include live Q&A, transitions, and intermittent audio/visual fluctuations typical of a live recording.

1 CREDIT HOUR APPROVED FOR:
Social Workers
ASWB ACE – 1 Clinical CE Credit
NY State Education Department’s State Board for Social Work – 1 Contact Hour
Psychologists
APA – 1 CE Credit
Counselors
NBCC ACEP – 1 Contact Hour
Addiction Professionals
NAADAC – 1 Contact Hour
Nurses
California Board of Registered Nursing – 1 Contact Hour
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Mental Health Practitioners – 1 Contact Hour
Case Managers
CCMC – 1 Contact Hour

Created On:     5/14/25           Revised On: 3/2/26     

Target Audience:

This course is targeted for social workers, psychologists, counselors, nurses and case managers.

Counselor Skill Groups: 

6. Case Management

Overview:

Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are often forgotten when it comes to conversation, planning, and services in adulthood. COVID-19 provided a wakeup call for professionals, family caregivers, and broader caregiving networks to support individuals with IDD in planning for life for when their health changes and for their final days. This training will provide a framework for understanding the multi-faceted nature of advance care planning, barriers to advance care planning, and reasons for advance care planning to support individuals with IDD. The number of older adults with IDD continues to increase; therefore, it is essential to carve out time to support individuals with IDD and their caregivers to plan for the future. This session will provide practical information to integrate advance care planning in work that is already being done to best meet the needs of adults with IDD throughout the life course.

Course Objectives:

By the end of the session, the participant will be able to:

  • Define  what advance care planning entails and the dimensions of advance care planning.
  • Describe the barriers to and reasons for advance care planning in individuals with IDD.
  • Explain strategies to integrate advance care planning into the person-centered planning process.

Presenter:

Christina Marsack-Topolewski, LMSW, PhD

Christina Marsack-Topolewski, LMSW, PhD is a licensed social worker and an tenured Professor of Social Work at Eastern Michigan University. She received her bachelor’s of science in Special Education from Wayne State University, master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Michigan, and her PhD in Social Work from Wayne State University. She has 20 years of experience supporting individuals with disabilities and their family caregivers. She has worked with individuals with disabilities with co-occurring conditions, including chronic pain. Dr. Marsack-Topolewski has worked as a professor, clinical therapist, teacher, consultant, and speaker. She has published over 90 research articles in scholarly journals and encyclopedias regarding individuals with developmental disabilities, family caregiving, and formal social supports.


Dr. Marsack-Topolewski has served as the lead principal investigator on multiple grant-funded programs tailoring services for individuals with disabilities and their caregivers. She is an appointed board member of the U.S. National Task Group (NTG) on Intellectual Disability and Dementia Practices. Dr. Marsack-Topolewski’s research has been featured on National Public Radio (NPR) and ABC News Detroit. Over the past five years, she testified before members of the Michigan Legislature to advocate for new laws that protect against the exploitation and abuse of adults with disabilities. Two of these house bills were signed into law in the state of Michigan in December 2023. In 2024, she received the Ronald W. Collins Distinguished Research Award for Research Excellence. In addition, she received the Arc of Oakland County’s Advocacy Hall of Fame Award in 2024. Outside of work, she loves spending time with her husband, their three daughters, and family and friends.

ODL 338: Veterinary Clinical Work for Helping Professionals: Exploring the Human-Animal Bond

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Please make sure to check with your own state board to ensure the transferability of CE credit for an asynchronous course. Some state boards may place restrictions regarding the modality of training required for ethics credits to be awarded. If this training indicates ethics credits are available, please verify that your state allows them to be earned through an on-demand course format.

Please note: This on-demand webinar is a replay of a live CE event. The format reflects the original presentation and may include live Q&A, transitions, and intermittent audio/visual fluctuations typical of a live recording.

1 CREDIT HOUR APPROVED FOR:

Social Workers
ASWB ACE – 1 Clinical CE Credit
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Social Work – 1 Contact Hour
Psychologists
APA – 1 CE Credit
Counselors
NBCC ACEP – 1 Contact Hour
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Mental Health Practitioners – 1 Contact Hour
Addiction Professionals
NAADAC –1 Contact Hour
Nurses
California Board of Registered Nursing – 1 Contact Hour
Case Managers
CCMC – This course is not approved for CCMC Contact hours

Created On:  5/2/25 Updated On: 2/26/28

Target Audience:

This course is targeted for social workers, psychologists, counselors, and nurses.

Counselor Skill Groups:

4. Counseling Services

Overview:

Explore the innovative intersection of humans and animals in this unique course on veterinary social work. This class focuses on the human side of the human-animal bond, offering insight into how social work principles apply in veterinary and animal service settings. You’ll dive into four key areas of this growing field:

  1. Grief and Loss – Understanding the emotional impact of losing a pet and how to support clients through this difficult process.
  2. The Link Between Human and Animal Violence – Examining the connection between human aggression and animal cruelty, and the role of social workers in addressing this issue.
  3. Animal-Assisted Interventions – Exploring the therapeutic benefits of animals in human wellness, and how social workers can integrate animals into treatment plans.
  4. Compassion Fatigue – Addressing the emotional toll on veterinary professionals and animal service workers, and strategies for managing burnout.

Throughout the course, you’ll be introduced to a strengths-based perspective informed by evidence-based practices, equipping you with tools to enhance both human and animal well-being. Whether you’re a current or aspiring professional in veterinary care, social work, or animal services, this course will deepen your understanding of the critical connections between humans and animals.

Course Objectives:

By the end of the session, the participant will be able to:

  • Examine the human-animal bond and its impact on clients experiencing pet loss and grief.
  • Identify the connection between human aggression and animal cruelty to inform intervention strategies.
  • Develop strategies to prevent and manage compassion fatigue in veterinary and animal service professionals.

Presenter:

Krista Martin, MSSW, LISW-CP, LCSW, C-AAIS

Krista Martin is a clinical social worker who is passionate about embracing the human-animal bond and walking with others as they develop the skills necessary to prioritize their own wellbeing and then leverage those skills to build a better system for all.

Krista currently serves as the Special Projects Director for Veterinary Hope Foundation and operates M3 Counseling, a private social work practice specializing in veterinary social work.  She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Behavioral Sciences from East Texas Baptist University and her Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Texas at Arlington. Krista completed the Post Graduate Veterinary Social Work Certificate Program through the University of Tennessee Knoxville and is a Certified Animal-Assisted Intervention Specialist through the Association of Animal Assisted Intervention Professionals.

ODL 337: Beyond Isolation – The Science of Social Connection and Scalable Solutions for Ending the Loneliness Epidemic

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1 CREDIT HOUR APPROVED FOR:

Social Workers
ASWB ACE – 1 General CE Credit
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Social Work – 1 Contact Hour
Psychologists
APA – 1 CE Credit
Counselors
NBCC ACEP – 1 Contact Hour
Addiction Professionals
NAADAC – This course is not approved for NAADAC Contact hours.
Nurses
California Board of Registered Nursing – 1 Contact Hour
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Mental Health Practitioners – 1 Contact Hour
Case Managers
CCMC – 1 Contact Hour

Please make sure to check with your own state board to ensure the transferability of CE credit for an asynchronous course. Some state boards may place restrictions regarding the modality of training required for ethics credits to be awarded. If this training indicates ethics credits are available, please verify that your state allows them to be earned through an on-demand course format.

Created On: 4/25/25 Revised On: 1/26/26

Target Audience:

This course is targeted for social workers, psychologists, counselors, nurses and case managers.

Overview:

Loneliness is more than just a feeling—it has profound impacts on whole health, comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Understanding the mechanisms of loneliness and effective interventions is crucial for improving client well-being. This session will explore the latest research on loneliness, its effects, and how we can help others foster meaningful social connections. We will also discuss scalable solutions, including peer support, technology-driven interventions, and innovative community-based approaches that professionals can integrate into their practice.

Course Objectives:

By the end of the session, the participant will be able to:

  • Analyze the science of loneliness and its impact on whole health
  • Evaluate different modern interventions that help combat loneliness
  • Identify practical strategies to help clients build meaningful social connections using virtual tools

Presenter:

Weston Ballard, MBA, Founder and CEO of Goldie

Weston Ballard is the founder and CEO of Goldie, a mental health platform leveraging AI to deliver personalized group support for family caregivers across America. Prior to launching Goldie, Weston served as a research fellow with the Stanford Center on Longevity’s New Map of Life initiative, where he examined how social connections evolve with age and advanced public-private strategies to address the loneliness epidemic. Weston received his MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business and was honored with the Miller Social Change Leadership Award for his work in longevity and social innovation.

His leadership experience spans roles as a partner at Prufrock Ventures, an engagement leader in Deloitte Consulting’s applied innovation practice, and a board member at The Center on Colfax, the largest LGBTQ+ community center in the Rockies. Weston now joins the Stanford Center on Longevity advisory council, bringing a proven record of mission-driven innovation and a commitment to fostering healthier, social capital-rich communities.

ODL 336: Birds Fly, Fish Swim, and Children Play: Intro to Child-Centered Play Therapy 

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1 CREDIT HOUR APPROVED FOR:

Social Workers
ASWB ACE – 1 Clinical CE Credit
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Social Work – 1 Contact Hour
Psychologists
APA – 1 CE Credit
Counselors
NBCC ACEP – 1 Contact Hour
Addiction Professionals
NAADAC–This course is not approved for NAADAC Contact hours.
Nurses
California Board of Registered Nursing – 1 Contact Hour
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Mental Health Practitioners – 1 Contact Hour
Case Managers
CCMC – This course is not approved for CCMC Contact hours.

Please make sure to check with your own state board to ensure the transferability of CE credit for an asynchronous course. Some state boards may place restrictions regarding the modality of training required for ethics credits to be awarded. If this training indicates ethics credits are available, please verify that your state allows them to be earned through an on-demand course format.

Created On:  4/24/25 Revised On: 1/28/26

Target Audience:

This course is targeted for social workers, psychologists, counselors, nurses and case managers.

Overview:

This webinar introduces the audience to the basic concepts of child-centered play therapy.  Participants will learn the needed attitudes and skills to create and sustain facilitative relationships with children that encourage their creativity and encourage change.

Course Objectives:

By the end of the session, the participant will be able to:

  • Discover one approach to child-centered play therapy (CCPT).
  • Identify five developmentally appropriate play therapy toys and materials.
  • List three roles of the play therapist.
  • Label three elements of the play therapy relationship.

Presenter:

Lauren R. Chase, PhD, LCMHC, NCC, BC-TMH, and Owner of Climbing Hills Counseling
Dr. Lauren Chase is a clinical mental health counselor, counselor educator, and owner of Climbing Hills Counseling, a practice where she specializes in working with high-achieving women to raise self-esteem and set stronger boundaries to live a more fulfilling life. In her free time, she likes to spend time with her dog, read historical fiction novels, and explore nature.

Her education and professional career have been focused on culturally responsive child-centered play therapy with children and families. She has worked in various settings, including community mental health, high school, university disability services, homeless shelter, and residential facility over the course of four years. She has won awards for her commitment to the field of suicide prevention and for promoting creativity in the counseling profession. Her research interests include social justice advocacy, trauma, cultural humility, and play therapy.

ODL 335: Dimensions of Wellness: The Holistic and Cross-Cultural Approach in Counseling 

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Please make sure to check with your own state board to ensure the transferability of CE credit for an asynchronous course. Some state boards may place restrictions regarding the modality of training required for ethics credits to be awarded. If this training indicates ethics credits are available, please verify that your state allows them to be earned through an on-demand course format.

1 CREDIT HOUR APPROVED FOR:

Social Workers
ASWB ACE – 1 Clinical CE Credit
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Social Work – 1 Contact Hour
Psychologists
APA – 1 CE Credit
Counselors
NBCC ACEP – 1 Contact Hour
Addiction Professionals
NAADAC – 1 Contact Hour 
Nurses
California Board of Registered Nursing – 1 Contact Hour
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Mental Health Practitioners – 1 Contact Hour
Case Managers
CCMC – 1 Contact Hour

Created On:    4/17/25 Revised On: 1/27/26

Target Audience:

This course is targeted for social workers, psychologists, counselors, nurses and case managers.

Counselor Skill Groups:

3. Treatment Plan
4. Counseling Services

Overview:

The focus on wellness has become increasingly prevalent in multidisciplinary areas of health and mental health research. Wellness is rooted in the foundational framework of counseling and it is a multidimensional holistic concept that impacts all facets of everyday life including the lives of educators, students and clients. Wellness counseling is transtheoretical, meaning it can be applied across cultures. Counseling is an integrative approach that often goes beyond Western centric talk therapy. There is a growing need for counselors skilled in diverse culturally sensitive wellness approaches. This presentation will examine wellness through a multicultural lens and explore current wellness trends in counseling research and practice. Wellness is an active process of growth and change to reach your fullest health and well-being. Integrating wellness counseling and tools such as mindfulness, allows clients to process trauma symptoms in the body, regulate their nervous system, and regulate their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Holistic wellness involves focusing on present thoughts, feelings, and actions to heighten awareness and consciousness. It integrates the mind, body, and spirit for overall well-being. Practiced through eight dimensions, it aids in managing stress and anxiety.

Course Objectives:

By the end of the session, the participant will be able to:

  • Examine wellness counseling and how holistic wellness can be integrated into counseling through focus on mind-body-spirit
  • Identify wellness practices and analyze barriers to integrating wellness
  • Discover culturally competent ways to use holistic wellness with diverse clients

Presenter:

Shama Panjwani, PhD, LPC, ACS, NCC, CCMHC 

Dr. Shama Panjwani is an Asian Indian speaker and expert in trauma-informed care, focusing on attachment, immigration, cultural/racial, and intergenerational traumas while integrating holistic wellness approaches to addressing trauma in a culturally competent manner. She is currently a professor in the clinical mental health counseling program at Keiser University. Dr. Shama has a private practice, SoHolisticEnergy Counseling & Consultation, LLC, where she provides clinical services to clients and supervisees. She also provides consulting services to organizations and institutions on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and workplace wellness.

Dr. Shama has a PhD in counselor education and supervision with a specialization in cross-cultural psychology and organizational leadership. She is a national certified counselor, a certified clinical mental health counselor, a board certified telemental health provider, licensed professional counselor and an approved clinical supervisor. 

Her research presentations and publication focus on topics including reducing mental health stigma, immigration, acculturation, trauma, social justice and advocacy, multiculturalism and diversity, psychedelic-assisted therapy, crisis counseling, as well as approaches used to increase cross-cultural awareness and wellness, and leadership skills within academia and other institutions. She has been working in the mental health field for more than nine years. She is actively involved in doing consultations, workshops, and presentations to create awareness and destigmatize mental health and wellness for the BIPOC (Black Indigenous People of Color) community on an individual and organizational level by increasing their access to effective and culturally responsive treatment. 

ODL 334: Understanding the Negative Impact of Childhood Trauma on Development and the Healing Power of Safety and Connection

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Please make sure to check with your own state board to ensure the transferability of CE credit for an asynchronous course. Some state boards may place restrictions regarding the modality of training required for ethics credits to be awarded. If this training indicates ethics credits are available, please verify that your state allows them to be earned through an on-demand course format.

Please note: This on-demand webinar is a replay of a live CE event. The format reflects the original presentation and may include live Q&A, transitions, and intermittent audio/visual fluctuations typical of a live recording.

3 CREDIT HOURS APPROVED FOR:

Social Workers
ASWB ACE – 3 Clinical CE Credits
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Social Work – 3 Contact Hours
Psychologists
APA – 3 CE Credits
Counselors
NBCC ACEP – 3 Contact Hours
Addiction Professionals
NAADAC–3 Contact Hours
Nurses
California Board of Registered Nursing – 3 Contact Hours
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Mental Health Practitioners – 3 Contact Hours
Case Managers
CCMC – This course is not approved for CCMC Contact hours

Created On:   4/14/25 Revised On: 3/2/26

Target Audience:

This course is targeted for social workers, psychologists, counselors, and nurses.

Counselor Skill Groups: 

4. Counseling Services
6. Case Management

Overview:

“Understanding the Negative Impact of Childhood Trauma on Development and the Healing Power of Safety and Connection” is a 3-hour continuing education training designed for social workers, counselors, case managers, and nurses. This training will equip participants with a comprehensive understanding of how trauma affects the brain and its implications throughout childhood and adolescence. Led by a trauma expert, this training will delve into the neurobiological effects of trauma, emotional dysregulation, and developmental challenges in young individuals. Additionally, there will be a focus on early childhood trauma and developmental attachments necessary for overall mental health during childhood. Attendees will leave with actionable knowledge to enhance their professional practice in supporting vulnerable populations.

Course Objectives:

By the end of the session, the participant will be able to:

  • Identify the neurobiological impact of trauma on the developing brain and its behavioral manifestations in children and adolescents.
  • Examine the long-term implications of unresolved childhood trauma on emotional regulation and developmental milestones.
  • Recognize signs of trauma-related struggles in children within clinical, school, and community settings.

Presenter:

Blair Scott, LPC

Blair Scott is a licensed professional counselor from Charleston, South Carolina. She graduated from Appalachian State with a BA in Psychology and an MA in Community Counseling, as well as a certificate in infant mental health and expressive arts therapy. She currently works at Dorchester mental health and is a school-based therapist primarily working with elementary-aged children and their caregivers. She provides individual and family therapy and collaborates with teachers.

Blair has extensive training and experience working with children/teens and families who have experienced trauma. She started her career working at Thompson Child and Family Focus (TCFF) which is an intensive residential program for children and teens who experienced complex trauma. She was fortunate to receive direct training from attachment specialists who provided consulting for the agency. This began Blair’s passion for understanding the impact of early life experiences, attachment and healing. 

Blair is a lifelong learner and has continued to deepen her skills by attending training in a variety of topics and modalities. She is trained in evidenced based modalities for treating trauma, to include TF-CBT and EMDR with modification for children. Blair deeply believes that we must support caregivers caring for children to bring about the most change. She has seen the impact of generational trauma and works hard to help break cycles and strengthen families. She highly values her relationships with the children and families and is honored to be a part of their healing journey. Blair deeply believes in the resilience of people and the potential for healing and growth and is grateful to work in a field that is so impactful and rewarding.

When Blair is not working, she is spending time with her husband, two children and dog. She loves spending time with friends and family, being outdoors, reading and taking baths. 

ODL 333: Beyond Representation: Developing Meaningful Culturally Tailored Interventions

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1 CREDIT HOUR APPROVED FOR:

Social Workers
ASWB ACE – 1 Cultural Competence CE Credit
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Social Work – 1 Contact Hour
Psychologists
APA – 1 CE Credit
Counselors
NBCC ACEP – 1 Contact Hour
Addiction Professionals
NAADAC – 1 Contact Hour
Nurses
California Board of Registered Nursing – 1 Contact Hour
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Mental Health Practitioners – 1 Contact Hour
Case Managers
CCMC – 1 Contact Hour

Please make sure to check with your own state board to ensure the transferability of CE credit for an asynchronous course. Some state boards may place restrictions regarding the modality of training required for ethics credits to be awarded. If this training indicates ethics credits are available, please verify that your state allows them to be earned through an on-demand course format.

Created On:  4/10/25      Revised On: 1/27/26             

Target Audience:

This course is targeted for social workers, psychologists, counselors, nurses and case managers.

Counselor Skill Groups:

4. Counseling Services
6. Case Management

Overview:

Tailors are in the business of performing complicated alterations that benefit customers beyond the use of well-fitted clothing. Often, tailoring also helps build customer confidence. Culturally tailoring interventions for specific populations of interest can follow the same sentiments; it allows groups to feel seen and address unique challenges that some communities often face. However, the process can be misunderstood, with interventionists solely incorporating media representation (i.e., pictures & videos that mirror the group of interest), which, although important, is not complete – there is more to consider. What’s most important is centering the population of interest and engaging them throughout the entire development of the intervention. This can make for an intricate process, but a rewarding and, most importantly, effective intervention.

Course Objectives:

By the end of the session, the participant will be able to:

  • Define “culture” and a “culturally tailored” intervention.  
  • Describe effective processes to culturally tailor interventions.  
  • Compare real-life examples of culturally tailored interventions and discuss differences.  

Presenter:

Karah Alexander, PhD, MPH, MS, Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing at Emory University

Dr. Karah Alexander got her PhD in nursing from Emory University and a graduate certificate in health literacy from the College of Education & Human Development at Georgia State University. She is also a proud undergrad alumna of Spelman College. As an interdisciplinary health scholar, much of Karah’s work aligns with exploring literacy as a factor of health inequities in the Black community, as well as designing and testing culturally appropriate interventions for Black family caregivers of persons living with dementia. She has co-led a pilot health literacy improvement project at Emory Healthcare and served as a subject matter expert in health literacy for the Atlanta Region Community Health Workforce Advancement Program and the Global Alzheimer’s Platform Foundation. Since 2021, she has worked on the intervention development and testing team for the Caregiving while Black Course, a novel culturally tailored psychoeducation course for Black dementia caregivers. She also served as an Instructional Design Coordinator with the Rosalyn Carter Institute for Caregivers leading a culturally tailored initiative of their ‘Dealing with Dementia’ Program. Currently, she is a clinical coordinator for “Caregiver Bootcamp”, an intervention to help new caregivers master the first 100 days of caregiving. Karah has taught undergraduate and graduate nursing and public health students the importance of culturally appropriate interventions and effective processes to do so.  

ODL 332: Supporting Grieving Clients: Assessing Prolonged Grief Disorder and Facilitating Grief Interventions

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Please make sure to check with your own state board to ensure the transferability of CE credit for an asynchronous course. Some state boards may place restrictions regarding the modality of training required for ethics credits to be awarded. If this training indicates ethics credits are available, please verify that your state allows them to be earned through an on-demand course format.

6 CREDIT HOURS APPROVED FOR:

Social Workers
ASWB ACE – 6 Clinical CE Credits
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Social Work – 6 Contact Hours
Psychologists
APA – 6 CE Credits
Counselors
NBCC ACEP – 6 Contact Hours
Addiction Professionals
NAADAC–6 Contact Hours
Nurses
California Board of Registered Nursing – 6 Contact Hours
New York State Education Department’s State Board for Mental Health Practitioners – 6 Contact Hours
Case Managers
CCMC – This course is not approved for CCMC Contact hours

Created on: 4/7/25 Revised on: 1/28/26

Target Audience:

This course is targeted for social workers, psychologists, counselors, nurses and case managers.

Counselor Skill Groups:

1. Clinical Intake and Screening
2. Clinical Assessment
3. Treatment Plan
4. Counseling Services

Overview:

The new DSM-5-TR edition ushered in only one official new diagnosis: Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD). This workshop will present the new diagnosis and its criteria, explore the pros and cons of such a diagnosis, and examine methods of assessing for PGD. The use of diverse interventions and tools will be covered. Clinicians will feel more informed about this new diagnosis and better prepared to support clients who may have PGD. After discussing this new diagnosis, further exploration of grief dynamics will be presented. Complicated grief, disenfranchised grief, and non-death losses will be highlighted. Learners will be provided with grief screenings and assessments to enhance their assessment skills. Methods and models of supporting grieving clients with appropriate interventions will be discussed so that learners have increased confidence and skill in providing effective grief support to clients.

Course Objectives:

By the end of the session, the participant will be able to:

  • Explain the diagnostic criteria for Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD) and analyze pros and cons of the diagnosis
  • Demonstrate an understanding of clients with PGD and formulate goals and treatment interventions
  • Explain concepts of disenfranchised grief, ambiguous losses, and dynamics of non-death losses
  • Identify methods of screening and assessment to formulate conceptualizations of grief in clients
  • Formulate methods of intervention to support grieving clients

Presenter:

Diane Bigler, LCSW, LSCSW, owner of Diane Bigler Therapy Services, Inc. 

Diane Bigler is a licensed clinical social worker in Missouri and Kansas. She has over 20 years of experience in the social services field. Diane has held positions as a therapist (in-home and outpatient), private practice owner, trainer/facilitator, clinical supervisor, and professor of social work. She also has experience in corporate wellness training and coaching. Diane is most passionate about providing quality educational training to professionals. She enjoys spoiling her four dachshunds and anything 80s-related.