Florida Mental Health Counselors Association

Working With Clients Who Have Chronic Health Issues and Chronic Pain

Start
10 May 2022
End
31 Dec 2025
Location
On Demand (GoToWebinar)

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Description: Working with clients who are experiencing chronic illnesses and chronic pain is a complex and often misunderstood population. In this training, Gabrielle will explain the common issues this population faces, the connection between physical health and mental health and trauma, and best tools to utilize with these clients.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-912164

This is an event sponsored by FMHCA. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

Summarize the intersection and prevalence between mental health and chronic health issues.
Have multiple interventions to apply when working with this population.
Utilize screening tools/interventions to assess and manage chronic conditions

About the Presenter:

Gabrielle Juliano-Villani is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, owner, and founder of Colorado In-Home Counseling, a thriving group practice of 13 therapists, serving adults of all ages who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, chronic health conditions, trauma, life transitions, and stress management. Gabrielle has 15 years of experience working in the field of mental health, helping clients find better work/life balance and creating space for clients to reach their highest potential. Gabrielle is also a contributor and content creator to the Goodheart Collaborative, an app focused on burnout prevention for women in helping professions. Gabrielle will be published later this month on thriveglobal.com for an in-depth interview on burnout prevention, and has also contributed to psychwire.com. Gabrielle is passionate about bridging gaps and making mental health accessible to everyone. When she’s not working, Gabrielle is teaching Zumba or reading a psychological thriller at the beach!

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The Heart of Addiction: An Emerging Paradigm for Understanding Addiction

Start
08 Nov 2022
End
31 Dec 2025
Location
On Demand (GoToWebinar)

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Description: Brain research and human development research is advancing co-occurring counseling to a place where clients will have a better opportunity to thrive. Clinicians often view substance use disorders primarily as cognitive and behavioral issues. A pathological perspective views substance misuse from a neurological issue. This workshop explores what is perhaps the key to understanding addiction, viewing it from an attachment disorder perspective. Vincent Felitti attributes adverse childhood experiences that have resulted in poor attachments and poor emotion regulation as a high-risk factor for addiction. Kathy Brous says, “alcoholics in particular may be born with a sense of separation which results in neurotransmitter deficits.” Bickhart, et al. (2010) reported that amygdala volume correlates with reported social network size and complexity. When considering what has been learned about the brain and “what works,” a new way of looking at addiction and recovery is needed. Schindler and Bröning demonstrated empirical evidence strongly supporting the correlation between patterns of attachment and SUD. As anticipated, more studies are needed utilizing SUD assessments that measure attachment disorder. Effective prevention and treatment start with understanding the role attachment disorders have in cooccurring disorders, and inversely understanding how healthy relationships positively impact recovery.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-964626

This is an event sponsored by FMHCA. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

Describe the epistemology of the brain as a social organ.
Analyze the ramifications of attachment disorders on addiction as an underlying factor.
Apply information learned to the field of counseling by reviewing a model the presenter has found effective.

About the Presenter:

Jack is the founder of Psuche Education, Counseling & Coaching Services. He previously served as the Executive Director at Clay Crossing, a residential facility for men. He retired from the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, having served as the Admissions & Assessment Director at a 48-bed residential facility serving women with co-occurring issues. He also served as the clinical director at a male residential facility. He developed a program, The Together We Thrive program, for the Ft. Gibson School District, a K-12 program designed to identify at risk children and develop initiatives to assist them. In his doctoral dissertation he integrated spirituality, human development theories and psychotherapy. He has previously presented at a variety of conferences, to include at an International Conference.

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Meditation for Therapists: How to Breathe and Meditate for Self Care

Start
24 Apr 2023
End
24 Apr 2025
Location
On Demand (GoToWebinar)

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Description: We know that meditation and mindfulness practices help us to find balance, reduce anxiety and find personal clarity. But, do you know how to meditate and practice mindfulness? Do you know how to teach your clients to do so? In this interactive seminar, you will learn about meditation, why it is a great complimentary practice for counseling and self care, and how to do it. Enhance your own self care and expand your toolbox to teach and support your clients.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1038018

This is an event sponsored by FMHCA. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

Participants will learn about meditation.
Participants will gain an understanding about how meditation and breathing practices effect the brain and body.
Participants will engage in breathwork and meditation practices.
Participants will learn how to teach clients to utilize breathwork and meditation practices.

About the Presenter:

Stacey Brown is a Licensed Mental Health Therapist with almost thirty years of experience. She has maintained a private practice for 22 years, has served as a professor in AS, BA and MA higher education programs, and has served in leadership and counseling capacities in both for-profit and nonprofit organizations. Stacey is an artist in her own right, favoring an intuitive, abstract painting style. Through her own personal work in healing, she has enjoyed the integrative qualities of many healing modalities such as Reiki, yoga, meditation, and artwork. All of these modalities are integrated seamlessly into her work as a psychotherapist. Continued learning and a desire to teaching motivate her to continue to grow and expand, offering her unique style to others to encourage their own healing.

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The Neurobiology of Trauma and Its Implications for Successful Treatment

Start
01 May 2023
End
01 May 2025
Location
On Demand (GoToWebinar)

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Description: Trauma imprints varying responses and reactions on all aspects of a being: the brain, the body and the psyche. This presentation will explore treating trauma from this holistic and neurobiological perspective. Learn the detailed structure and layers of trauma and how to successfully treat them using an evidence-based technique from the field of Energy Psychology which rapidly clears trauma from the conscious mind, subconscious mind, and body.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1040742

This is an event sponsored by FMHCA. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

List the two major categories of trauma and define the differences between them
Describe the layers of trauma with their components.
Demonstrate the use of a meridian tapping technique for releasing eliminating traumatic emotion

About the Presenter:

Hillary is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (MH13684), she has Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Depth Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute in Santa Barbara, California. She has been in private practice in Maitland, Florida for 12 years and also has experience as a counselor in inpatient psychiatric settings. Hillary utilizes a holistic approach to psychotherapy focused on mind/body integrative healing. She specializes in helping clients find relief from symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, developmental trauma, and toxic relationships. Her treatment model is based on a perspective that focuses on treating the underlying issues that contribute to unwanted symptoms. Additionally, Hillary has completed extensive training in Integrative mental health, Energy Psychology, Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), and Healing From the Body Level Up (HBLU).

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No Hocus Pocus, Just Focus: Strategies for Optimizing Focus and Concentration

Start
08 May 2023
End
08 May 2025
Location
On Demand (GoToWebinar)

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Description: This presentation aims to introduce attendees to several science-backed cognitive, behavioral, and mindfulness-based strategies to optimize clients’ mental performance by improving their abilities to initiate focus and sustain concentration. Strategies covered will help attendees assist clients in developing a “mental warm-up” to transition into focus, maintaining concentration and regaining focus during mental tasks, and mentally recovering after intense periods of focus. Attendees will learn strategies for optimizing focus in high-stress situations plus be introduced to neurofeedback and mindfulness-based practices that can provide long-term benefits for focus and concentration. Additionally, this presentation will highlight the impacts of diet, exercise, stress, and alcohol and cannabis on focus and concentration.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1042964

This is an event sponsored by FMHCA. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

Recommend multiple strategies to improve clients' focus and concentration.
Explain the importance of "warming up" to initiate focus and "cooling down" following a period of intense focus.
Describe the impact of diet, exercise, stress, and alcohol and cannabis on focus and concentration.

About the Presenter:

Collier Shepard is a licensed mental health counselor at the University of Central Florida’s behavioral health services. At UCF, Collier provides neurofeedback and heart rate variability training, substance abuse counseling, and facilitates a cannabis psychoeducational group to students. Collier earned a master’s in clinical mental health counseling at the University of Alabama and also holds a master’s in exercise and sport sciences from the University of Memphis and a bachelor’s in psychology from Ole Miss.

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How to Build a Smart and Ethical Private Practice

Start
15 May 2023
End
15 May 2025
Location
On Demand (GoToWebinar)

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Description: During this webinar, you will learn strategies to build a private practice from the beginning, in an ethical and smart manner. You will learn about how ethics impact business planning and decision-making. You will receive marketing tips and strategies to help you earn an income that creates the life you want.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1293912

This is an event sponsored by FMHCA. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

Learn three ethic standards related to private practice
Identify five ways to create an ethic private practice
Learn three marketing strategies to help build success

About the Presenter:

Amanda Landry is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Certified Addictions Professional, National Certified Counselor and private practice consultant. She’s the owner of a group practice, Caring Therapists with several locations in Florida. Caring Therapists specializes in working with children through adults. Amanda is the author of Guided Journal for Women with Anxiety on sale on Amazon and wherever books are sold. Amanda is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Couples Counseling, Trauma- Focused CBT and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. Amanda is the founder of My Private Practice Collective, an online community for therapists in private practice. She is a private practice consultant who helps solo and group practices build smart practices. In 2018, Amanda was awarded Counselor of the Year by the Florida Mental Health Counseling Association. She is the secretary of the FMHCA and the PBMHCA. She is a volunteer for Delta Phi Epsilon Sorority as the chair of the Wellness Committee. She has served as a chapter advisor for DPhiE since 2007. Amanda has helped numerous Registered Interns with supervision and starting their private practice. She is a Qualified Supervisor in the state of Florida.

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Culturally Competent Play Therapy for Grief & Loss

Start
22 May 2023
End
22 May 2025
Location
On Demand (GoToWebinar)

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Description: Grief and loss are ever present - yet we often are not taught how to help children, teens and adults. Cultural norms, countertransference and societal pressures combine to make talking about death, divorce and loss difficult. Models of grief and loss, talking with bereaved children and teens, as well as typical versus atypical grief reactions will be processed. This webinar will serve as a guide for therapists to infuse their practice with art, play and sandtray activities that will support bereaved and grieving individuals. Therapists will be able to incorporate learned skills into their clinical approach and techniques into in person and online telehealth services. Ethical considerations, diversity and limitations will also be explored.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-973246

This is an event sponsored by FMHCA. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

Describe at least two art, play and sandtray activities to incorporate into grief and loss services.
Identify cultural considerations with play and art therapy techniques unique to bereavement.
Demonstrate an understanding of Task-based grief models
Incorporate the Task-based models into play therapy services.

About the Presenter:

Marla Berger has been working with children, teens and adults providing experiential therapies since 2000. After receiving her Bachelors Degree from University of Florida and her Masters Degree in Art Therapy from University of Louisville, she specialized in working with children and their families. In the wake of the Parkland tragedy in 2018, she has been serving the community in supporting trauma and loss. She knows the working through traumatic experiences can be difficult to talk about, so incorporates art, play, sandtray and equine assisted services into her therapy program. She is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Registered Art Therapist, Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, Eagala Advanced Certified in Equine Assisted Services and trained in Natural Lifemanship which is a Trauma-Focused Equine Assisted Psychotherapy modality. Since 1999, Marla has been speaking locally and nationally on a variety of topics including how to incorporate experiential therapies for grief, loss and trauma.

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Effective Suicide Prevention, Intervention and Postvention

Start
16 Jun 2023
End
16 Jun 2025
Location
On Demand (GoToWebinar)

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Description: Participants will learn the signs that someone is thinking about suicide, specific steps they can take to engage the person in turning toward life, and important information about how to support survivors of suicide loss as a prevention strategy. This is an experiential workshop and participants will have the opportunity to practice asking questions and engaging in suicide prevention with gentle guidance in a supportive learning environment.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1079880

This is an event sponsored by FMHCA. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

Participants will identify signs that someone is thinking about suicide.
Participants will understand how to develop a safety plan with someone who is thinking about suicide.
Participant will practice engaging intervention conversations to help turn someone toward life.
Participants will recognize common risk factors for survivors of suicide loss.

About the Presenter:

Maureen Pollard is a registered social worker with 30 years experience in the field. She operates a private practice in Cobourg, Ontario, Canada and specializes in grief and trauma, as well as resilience and wellness for professionals in high-stress, trauma exposed workplaces. She is also an author and a songwriter.

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Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders: Debunking Myths and Building Clinical Competency

Start
17 Jul 2023
End
17 Jul 2025
Location
On Demand (GoToWebinar)

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Description: Terms like "schizophrenic," "psychotic," and "sociopath" are often headliners in news stories, painting a negative, and often frightening, picture of mental illness. In this workshop, participants will be exposed to the stigma surrounding Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders, and gain knowledge and skills to "debunk" these myths, learning to serve as better advocates for people experiencing mental illness. Participants will also increase their assessment skills and diagnostic competency in the area of Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders, in preparation for work with people experiencing diagnoses from this spectrum.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1088768

This is an event sponsored by FMHCA. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

Describe the stigma and myths associated with Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders.
Demonstrate clinical knowledge and competency pertaining to Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders.
Discuss opportunities to work with and advocate for persons experiencing Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders.

About the Presenter:

Jennifer Barr, MSW, LCSW, is a social work faculty member at the University of North Florida in Jacksonville. Ms. Barr began her social work career working with clients who experienced domestic and sexual violence. After receiving her MSW, Ms. Barr gained a majority of her practice experience and received her LCSW working in the field of mental health and substance abuse, providing a wide range of clinical services to persons experiencing severe and persistent mental illness, in both inpatient and community-based settings. Prior to joining the UNF faculty, Ms. Barr worked in the field of higher education. She also provides services to veterans and their support systems, and serves as an auditor in the Florida prison system.

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What Counselors Need to Know About Recent Legislation Impacting LGBTQ+ Clients

Start
14 Aug 2023
End
14 Aug 2025
Location
On Demand (GoToWebinar)

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Description: The Florida legislature recently passed a bill (SB 254) that the Human Rights Campaign, the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) civil rights organization, referred to as a “gender-affirming care ban.” Does this bill really ban gender-affirming care? What are its potential implications for mental health counselors and the clients they serve? What about other bills that were passed directly (or indirectly) relate to our work with LGBTQ+ clients (e.g., SB 1580, SB 1320, HB 1521)? And what’s the deal with that “guideline” issued by the Department of Health last year against “social gender transition” for adolescents? Does that change anything for counselors working with transgender youth?

Get updated and informed with this 1.5-hour webinar! The Chair of FMHCA’s Government Relations Committee and FMHCA’s President will provide a brief overview of legislative actions and government guidelines impacting counselors working and their LGBTQ+ clients, and a panel of counselors specializing in work with LGBTQ+ clients will discuss these measures and answer questions posed by attendees.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1097560

This is an event sponsored by FMHCA. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

Identify and describe recent legislative actions impacting transgender care.
Differentiate between legal and ethical standards related to working with LGBTQ+ clients.
Contrast national and international transgender care standards (e.g., HHS, WPATH) with state standards.
Reduce liability when addressing client requests for letters related to treatments for gender dysphoria.

About the Presenter:

Dr. Aaron Norton is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with certifications in addictions, alcohol and drug counseling, rehabilitation counseling, clinical mental health counseling, trauma treatment, forensic mental health evaluation, forensic behavioral analysis, and forensic psychometry. He serves as Executive Director of the National Board of Forensic Evaluators, a national not-for-profit board officially endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association that provides training, certification, and professional advocacy for licensed mental health professionals specializing in forensic mental health evaluation. He is an Assistant Professor of Instruction at the University of South Dept. of Mental Health Law & Policy. He serves as Southern Regional Director, Ethics Committee Liaison, and International Counseling Task Force Chair for the American Mental Health Counselors Association and Chair of the Government Relations Committee for the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association. He is the Consulting Editor for AMHCA’s The Advocate Magazine. He co-authored the Forensic Evaluation section of the “AMHCA Standards for the Practice of Clinical Mental Health Counseling,” authored the proposal for AMHCA’s Clinical Mental Health Specialist in Forensic Evaluation (CMHS-FE) credential, and served on the expert panel that created the standards and written exam for the Florida Certification Board’s Certified Telehealth Practitioner (CTP) credential. He has 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist and clinical supervisor specializing in lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) issues, cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety and depressive disorders, and substance use treatment. He was awarded Mental Health Counselor of the Year by the American Mental Health Counselors Association in 2016, Counselor Educator of the Year by the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association in 2016, Researcher of the Year by the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association in 2019, and he was awarded AMHCA’s Public and Community Service Award in 2020. An experienced writer, presenter, and trainer, he has been published in several academic journals and professional magazines in the counseling profession.

Laura Peddie-Bravo, LMHC, NCC is the current President Elect of the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association, FMHCA. Laura graduated from The University of Central Florida’s CACREP accredited Counselor Education program in 1998. She obtained her NCC credential in 1999 and obtained her license in 2001. Laura owns a private practice, The Bravo Counseling Group, LLC, in Winter Park, Florida. She is married and the mother of three young adult children, one of whom has Autism Spectrum Disorder. Among her specialties are Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bi-Polar, OCD, Domestic Violence, and Personality Disorders. Working with clients and families with Autism Spectrum Disorder is a special passion for her. Laura also enjoys serving the profession of counseling, and she has been a member of and volunteered for professional associations since she was a graduate student.

Logan Bell is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Qualified Supervisor in the state of Florida. He works across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum helping patients navigate aspects of development and managing comorbid mental health concerns. Logan specializes in work with severe mood disorders, including bipolar disorder, active suicidal ideation, and death work, operating from a psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral lens. Logan also works with LGBTQIA+ advocacy groups and aims to help other clinicians better understand the law, ethics, and ways to help.

Kerry Conca is a licensed mental health counselor who has been practicing therapy since 2013. Kerry recently completed her certification to become a Certified Practitioner (CP) of Psychodrama, Sociometry, and Group Psychotherapy. She presently has a private practice in Tampa, Florida where she works with adolescents, young adults, and families. Kerry spent many years working with at-risk youth and children in foster care. She is passionate about advocacy for children, adoptees, neurodiverse individuals, and marginalized people.

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Adopting a Trauma-Lens: How to Build Protective Factors and Resilience with Adolescents

Start
14 Aug 2023
End
14 Aug 2025
Location
On Demand (GoToWebinar)

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Description: Adolescents are particularly vulnerable to trauma due to the various developmental, social, and emotional changes that occur during this period. Experiencing trauma during these formative years puts adolescents at higher risk for various adverse outcomes. This presentation will provide attendees with an introduction to trauma and will review the different types of trauma and its prevalence in our society. It will explore how trauma impacts various domains of functioning for adolescents and discuss risk factors and red flags to look out for. Attendees will learn about resilience, protective factors, and the steps clinicians can take to support adolescents and their families to achieve healing and increase positive outcomes.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1097564

This is an event sponsored by FMHCA. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

Gain insight into what trauma is and how it affects the brain and the body of adolescents.
Understand the impact of trauma on adolescence including age related reaction, risk factors, and red flags.
Gain a better understanding of resilience and protective factors that apply to adolescence.
Learn the 7 C’s of resilience and how to take the initial steps to building resilience and increasing the likelihood of positive outcomes.

About the Presenter:

Dr. Marina Bunch is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, a Nationally Certified Counselor, and a Qualified Supervisor in Florida. Dr. Bunch holds a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling and a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision. She is an Assistant Professor of Counseling at the University of the Cumberlands and serves children and families in her private practice in Lakewood Ranch, FL. Dr. Bunch specializes in infant and early childhood mental health, attachment-related issues, fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, parenting, prenatal and postnatal mood disorders, and clinical supervision. Her research interests include early childhood mental health, attachment, and leadership. On a personal note, Dr. Bunch is married with two girls and two dogs (Jelly and Butter). She loves staying active, spending time with her family, and traveling, especially to her home country of Brazil. Dr. Page is an Associate professor in Counselor Education. Her areas of previous and current research and publication include adolescents, disaster mental health, theories in supervision, crisis work, substance abuse, and high-risk recidivists. She is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (Florida) and a Nationally Certified Counselor. Dr. Page has worked in community and private mental health, in addition to serving as the clinical director for a private residential facility. She has also owned a private practice, serving adolescents, and worked in family law mediation. In practice, her specialties included addictions, severe mental health, adolescents, assessments, crisis/trauma, and anxiety. In addition to teaching, supervision, and research, Dr. Page is also involved in the American Counseling Association and is actively involved in the International Association for Addictions and Offenders (IAAOC) and is the Chair of the Legislative Committee. She has previously served on the board for the Florida Counseling Association and is a trained crisis responder. Dr. Page lives in the Orlando, Florida area and enjoys traveling, history, Gator football, and is an avid runner. She is married with two boys. Evan Wilons, LPC, received his master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Central Arkansas. He is currently pursuing his Ph.D. in Counseling Education and Supervision from the University of the Cumberland’s, with his dissertation research focused on implicit bias within the counseling field. Before his role as the trauma educator for the TRIS (Trauma Resource Initiative in Schools) through ARBEST (Arkansas Building Effective Services for Trauma) within the Department of Psychiatry at UAMS, Evan worked with clients of all ages mainly focusing on adolescent and adult trauma in an outpatient setting.

Dr. Page is an Associate professor in Counselor Education. Her areas of previous and current research and publication include adolescents, disaster mental health, theories in supervision, crisis work, substance abuse, and high-risk recidivists. She is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (Florida) and a Nationally Certified Counselor. Dr. Page has worked in community and private mental health, in addition to serving as the clinical director for a private residential facility. She has also owned a private practice, serving adolescents, and worked in family law mediation. In practice, her specialties included addictions, severe mental health, adolescents, assessments, crisis/trauma, and anxiety.

In addition to teaching, supervision, and research, Dr. Page is also involved in the American Counseling Association and is actively involved in the International Association for Addictions and Offenders (IAAOC) and is the Chair of the Legislative Committee. She has previously served on the board for the Florida Counseling Association and is a trained crisis responder.

Dr. Page lives in the Orlando, Florida area and enjoys traveling, history, Gator football, and is an avid runner. She is married with two boys.

Evan Wilons, LPC, received his master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Central Arkansas. He is currently pursuing his Ph.D. in Counseling Education and Supervision from the University of the Cumberland’s, with his dissertation research focused on implicit bias within the counseling field. Before his role as the trauma educator for the TRIS (Trauma Resource Initiative in Schools) through ARBEST (Arkansas Building Effective Services for Trauma) within the Department of Psychiatry at UAMS, Evan worked with clients of all ages mainly focusing on adolescent and adult trauma in an outpatient setting.

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Dual Diagnosis: Challenges, Experiences and Recommendations

Start
20 Aug 2023
End
20 Aug 2025
Location
On Demand (GoToWebinar)

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Description: Substance Use Disorders and Mental Illness occur together frequently. Often times, there is a synergistic impact on the individual's well-being and their family relationships. It is important for clinicians and other practitioners to be able to discern appropriate level of care when treating these patients. The treatment of individuals with a dual diagnosis can present some challenges in modality and milieu for organizations, as well as private practices. Additionally, a holistic recovery approach needs to include the perspective and treatment of the family dynamics.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1099654

This is an event sponsored by FMHCA. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

Discuss the treatment and outcome implications when treating the dually diagnosed client as well as organizational issues that arise in implementing dual diagnosis programs.
Prepare better to provide appropriate treatment and planning for the dually diagnosed client.
Explain the necessity of giving attention to the families of dually diagnosed clients and gain perspective of the distress and difficulty the family faces with dually diagnosed loved ones.

About the Presenter:

Dina Smith is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Master's Level Certified Addictions Professional. Mrs. Smith is the Director of Clinical Services for the UF Health Florida Recovery Center. Mrs. Smith has worked in the field of Behavioral Health, primarily with Substance Use Disorders, for about 18 years. Mrs. Smith believes that Addiction coupled with a diagnosis such as Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder or others can be lethal without treatment. Additionally, the appropriate level of care could be the difference between health and safety versus continued disease and risk. Mental Health and Addiction affect family dynamics and relationships. Mrs. Smith has witnessed entire systems becoming absorbed by a problem that is spinning out of control. However, Mrs. Smith has also experienced the miracle of recovery in the patients and family systems she treats. Mrs. Smith is motivated to instill hope in others that recovery is possible, as well as educate clinicians on how to help restore these dynamics.

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Compassion Fatigue is Real! Let's Talk About It!

Start
28 Aug 2023
End
28 Aug 2025
Location
On Demand (GoToWebinar)

Registration is closed

Description: As mental health professionals and leaders in our workplaces, we're constantly handling multiple stressful tasks and other people's traumas. After a while, some sooner than others, you may begin to experience a condition of extreme tiredness and desperation. This is called compassion fatigue. Our workshop is aimed to educate our participants on what compassion fatigue is and empower them with coping mechanisms for it. The participants will be able to clearly define and identify signs of compassion fatigue, differentiate the condition from burnout; discuss ways to get help, and lastly, gain practical measures for daily use.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-973294

This is an event sponsored by FMHCA. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

Define and discuss the condition of compassion fatigue
Compare and contrast compassion fatigue from burnout
Gain sound and tangible strategies to use daily

About the Presenter:

Natacha Bazin is an insightful thought leader with 15 progressive years of experience in the mental health and health services sectors. She is licensed in Mental Health Counseling, practicing in the state of Florida. Natacha demonstrates sound mental health best practices, program management, operations, and team development skills, imbued with a humanistic approach. She is adept at embracing different cultures, populations, and demographics, a clear communicator with proficiency in delivering small-scale training sessions and large-scale corporate events. Natacha's been impactful in small organizations and boardrooms alike; whether it's working with clients and families, developing strategy, reviewing policy, or evaluating performance. In addition to counseling and therapeutic services, Natacha provides consultation services in leadership/management, professional development, and team building; leading organizations to elevate and meet their business goals and secure growth. Natacha is proficient in Haitian Creole, is of Haitian descent, and has a passion for servant leadership.

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Young at Heart: Exploring Young Adult Literature as a Therapeutic Intervention

Start
11 Sep 2023
End
11 Sep 2025
Location
On Demand (GoToWebinar)

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Description: Young Adult literature has long been known for presenting controversial and relevant topics. Many of the frequently challenged and banned books are considered works within the Young Adult literature genre. Additionally, research consistently demonstrates that reading and interacting with literature has many developmental and therapeutic benefits. While many adults are criticized for consuming Young Adult literature, doing so can be incredibly helpful and therapeutic for clients. This webinar will explore the identity of Young Adult literature, ways adult clients can benefit from Young Adult literature, as well as ways to incorporate this type of literature into the therapeutic process.

CE Broker Tracking #:20-1105720

This is an event sponsored by FMHCA. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

Define young adult literature as a distinct literary genre by describing the three main narrative components common to young adult literature and how they are different from adult literature.
Identify common themes in young adult literature and how they reflect social and cultural attitudes present in current American society by highlighting several prominent young adult works as examples of how authors incorporate those themes in their writing.
Explore evidence based benefits of reading and bibliotherapy and apply them to adult clients using theoretical frameworks describing human development.

About the Presenter:

Mel Gomez-Erickson (they/them/theirs) is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Central Florida and a Master’s in Experimental Psychology from the College of William & Mary. Their counseling experience includes treating individuals, couples, and groups in residential, outpatient, and school-based settings. Prior to working as a counselor, Mel spent over 10 years working in the education system, at the elementary, middle, high school, and undergraduate levels.

Mel believes that everyone can benefit from therapy in some way, and that therapy is not a ‘one size fits all’ field. Mel incorporates their knowledge of psychology, education strategies, and popular culture to enhance the therapeutic process by providing clients the space to explore their presenting concerns through a lens that is easily understood and relatable. Mel is a certified trans-competent counselor and their areas of clinical focus include: anxiety, depression, trauma, stress management, family/relationship issues, and phase of life changes. They specialize in working with teens and adults, particularly those from populations who are often stigmatized and ostracized, including the LGBTQ+, kink, BDSM, and ethical non-monogamy communities.

As an LMHC in Florida, Angela specializes in providing therapy for couples (traditional and non-traditional) and therapists. She works with couples on developing relational intelligence to improve their relationships and quality of life, and therapists on managing a number of experiences that come up through their work or may be impacting their work.

In couples therapy, clients can expect to explore aspects such as, but not limited to identity, power and control, care and closeness, respect and recognition, the various bond we have in life, need, vulnerabilities, biases, monogamy vs. non-monogamy, love, and more. In sessions for therapists, clients can expect to explore what it means to rediscover and rework their approach to being a person and a therapist, while managing the various experiences that emerge through their work and might be impacting their work, such as burnout, values, identity, trauma, navigating graduate school, and more.

As a graduate of Rollins College, over the years Angela has worked with individual, other therapists, and a variety of couples in college and private practice settings and engaged in community-based and advocacy work within in-patient, LGBTQ+, addiction, and community mental health centers.

As a therapist, Angela is honest, direct and genuine. She finds therapy to be an exciting space for exploration, curiosity and development, but also a space where clients can develop through challenging themselves and having fun.

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Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities: Why Should You Care?

Start
18 Sep 2023
End
18 Sep 2025
Location
On Demand (GoToWebinar)

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Description: This presentation will discuss the history of racial and ethnic health disparities in the US and identify some of the factors contributing to the prevalence of the issue.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1108316

This is an event sponsored by FMHCA. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

Provide background information on racial and ethnic health disparities Review factors contributing to the issue
Explain changes in racial and ethnic health disparities in the last 10 years
Discuss the role of mental health providers in addressing the issue

About the Presenter:

Dr. Dorcas Matowe is Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the states of Florida and Illinois and an Approved Supervisor for the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT). She is an adjunct professor and also in private practice. Her doctoral research examined Marriage and Family Therapists' Knowledge and Perceptions of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities.

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Heartminded Parenting

Start
01 Oct 2023
End
01 Oct 2025
Location
On Demand (GoToWebinar)

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Description: Neuroscience has allowed us to better understand the impact and long-lasting effects that early childhood experiences have on mental health, our subjective sense of satisfaction, and the capacity for emotional regulation. We are wired for love and compassion but find it difficult to connect with others. What is the parental role in children's development of their capacity for empathy and compassion? We will briefly discuss the existence of five circuits (systems) involved in parenting, the factors that create blockages to the parenting process, and how to foster a relationship with a child that could grant enough neuroprotection and neurostimulation so that the child can develop self-compassion and empathic concern for others. We will also discuss the essentials of the neuroscience of love and how three different stress systems interact in regulating emotions, developing trust, and being able to feel compassion. Then we will propose developmental stages of empathy and compassion parallel to cognitive, language, and psychosocial development and how parents can nurture compassion on themselves and the child.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1113050

This is an event sponsored by FMHCA. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

To reflect on warmth and compassion as a parenting approach
To explore the neuroscience of empathy and compassion
To examine self-regulation strategies that boost empathy in parents and children
To discuss parenting strategies that support compassionate behaviors

About the Presenter:

Dr. Silvia Casabianca is a medical doctor from Colombia who has researched the topic of compassionate parenting and promoted education in love and not in fear for more than three decades. She obtained a doctorate in education from Nova Southeastern University in 2022 and is part of the Root of Compassion and Kindness Center (ROCK) team at Florida Gulf Coast University. She has been a psychotherapist for 30 years. She has been licensed as an MHC in Florida since 2004. She is the author of several books, the most recent Heatminded: Conscious evolution from fear to solidarity. Her dissertation is entitled: Exploring College Students’ Transformative Learning Experience Through Co-Creation of a Pilot Compassionate Parenting Module in a Humanities Class.

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It's Not What You See in the Movies: Uncovering the Invisible Wounds of Military Trauma

Start
12 Oct 2023
End
12 Oct 2025
Location
On Demand (GoToWebinar)

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Description: This presentation provides a fresh perspective on the magnitude and continuing stigma of military mental health. Neither counselors nor movies can grasp the full extent of an individual's suffering. We can empathize and ache in our own way having knowledge of it; however, no one can experience how another person is suffering. This presentation offers an overview of the obstacles veterans face throughout the course of their military career and the adjustment period post-service. A recently retired Airforce National Guard Captain will join this presentation to shed light on challenges faced throughout her career and the realities of facing PTSD and moral injuries daily, in battle, and beyond. Attendees will gain a valuable resource that will help mitigate the cultural gap between veterans and civilians that contributes to the ongoing efforts to decrease military and veteran rates of suicide.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1116004

This is an event sponsored by FMHCA. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

Participants will be able to understand military culture, military identity, and the unique experiences of Post-9/11 service members.
Participants will be able to define invisible wounds of war and recognize the signs, symptoms, and risk factors military trauma.
Participants will be able to facilitate knowledgeable interactions with service members and veterans with invisible wounds of war.
Participants will be able to describe the common challenges servicemembers and veterans face when seeking care for the invisible wounds of war.

About the Presenter:

Maria Giuliana, LMHC and Qualified Supervisor, is a 20-year Navy Veteran and founder of Beyond The Matter Counseling and Consulting Services LLC and provides telehealth services throughout the state of Florida and Iowa. She holds positions as FMHCA’s Regional Director Northeast and Chair of the Military Services Committee. She is also a doctoral candidate at National Louis University-Tampa in the Counselor Education and Supervision Program with her research focus on Military Cultural Competency. Her Leadership and Advocacy experience also includes presenting at professional conferences at the local, State, and National levels on a variety of clinical topics, including military cultural competency, trauma, and other issues related to Military Veterans and their families, and addressing unique issues related to the LGBTQIA+ community.

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BIOREGULATION THERAPY -- Integrating Body Biofeedback & Pulsed Electro-Magnetic Field Therapy into Psychotherapy: A Holistic Approach

Start
12 Oct 2023
End
12 Oct 2025
Location
On Demand (GoToWebinar)

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Description: An overview of Bio-Regulation Therapy technology and the science behind it. How to combine BRT with complimentary modalities, practices and techniques to create synergies that can result in significant improvement utilizing BRT devices - Including professional, personal-use, & mobile products - and how they can be used to provide therapy & benefits of BRT for your clients - How it can address a variety of physical, behavioral and mental health concerns, such as depression and anxiety. digestion problems, panic attacks, trauma and POD, chronic pain. ADHD, Autism spectrum disorders and more. Using BRT to stimulate the Vagus Nerve - prompting parasympathetic responses that calm the body, counterbalance stress and strengthen the gut-brain connection; Options for integrating BRT into your psychotherapy practice; BRT case studies dealing with a variety of issues.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1116006

This is an event sponsored by FMHCA. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

Attendees will be able to list the basic tenets of BRT as presented in the seminar to clients.
Attendees will be able to List how to incorporate BRT into their psychotherapy practice with their patients.
Attendees will be able to explain the BRT process constructs to their clients.

About the Presenter:

Michael Holler, Past President Ethics Committee Chair & Parliamentarian of FMHCA, is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, a National Certified Counselor, a Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor, a Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluator, a Certified Child Custody Evaluator, a Qualified Parenting Coordinator, a Qualified Clinical Supervisor and a Certified Kink Aware Therapist & Educator. Michael has a private practice in Tavernier in the Florida Keys. Michael has been working with individuals, families, couples and organizations for over 36 years. Michael is also a Neurofeedback provider. Michael has worked in inpatient psychiatric, community mental health and private practice settings. Michael has worked as an adjunct professor in psychology at Florida Keys Community College. Michael was President of the Upper Keys Interagency Council in 1997. Michael was the first Intensive Onsite Services Counselor in the State of Florida.

Turul Sengul is the founder and president of Nestatek Inc., a company based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, that provides advanced BRT, PEMF and other technology solutions for the medical and healthcare industries. With more than 25 years of experience, Mr. Sengul has worked at the forefront of technology innovations across a number of industries including information technology, software development, telecommunications and healthcare. Mr. Sengul has also worked as a consultant in the areas of business development, sales, and marketing both large and small companies around the world.

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Trauma Informed Care

Start
21 Nov 2023
End
13 Nov 2025
Location
On Demand (GoToWebinar)

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Description: This presentation is designed to help counselors, case managers, behavioral health technicians and anyone else who works with client who have experienced trauma. We will discuss that what trauma does to the brain's fight or flight system and why client react they do when confronted with a trigger. We will look at SAMHSA's Keys to Trauma Informed Care and discuss how we can help clients without retraumatizing them.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1130520

This is an event sponsored by FMHCA. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

Participants will gain a better understanding of how trauma affects the brain.
Participants will understand what generate symptoms in clients.
Participants will understand what needs to happen for people to not have symptoms and restore quality of life

About the Presenter:

Dr. Meredith Moran is a licensed therapist and owner of Front Line Wellness. She is a former police officer who now works with first responders and the military to treat PTSD and other trauma related challenges. Prior to opening her private practice, Dr. Moran spent 12.5 years working with substance addiction at Operation PAR. She is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and also certified in Accelerated Resolution Therapy.

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Cultivating Excellence: Redefining Perfectionism in Performance Counseling

Start
22 Apr 2024
End
22 Apr 2025
Location
On Demand (GoToWebinar)

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Description: This webinar will dive into an ongoing debate in the research and unravel what some researchers suggest are the adaptive characteristics of perfectionism. However, a new model suggests it's really about excellencism. In this upcoming webinar, we'll break down this fresh perspective, exploring its implications for counselors and counselor educators. Join me for a discussion on guiding our clients away from the pitfalls of perfectionism and towards a path of excellence, promising greater well-being and achievement.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1200824

This is an event sponsored by FMHCA. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

Participants will demonstrate knowledge related to the models of perfectionism including the new Model of Excellencism and Perfectionism.
Participants will demonstrate the ability to implement strategies that support excellence striving.
Participants will describe the urgency and importance of distinguishing perfectionism and excellence

About the Presenter:

Kathy Feinstein is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Sport Performance Consultant. Since 1998, her unique practice has empowered children, adolescents, adults, couples, families and teams to achieve greater satisfaction in sport, health and life. In addition to general counseling, Kathy works with athletes at all levels and ages in a variety of sports to provide sport counseling and consulting services. She hosts Parenting Peak Performers, a podcast featuring interviews with professional and collegiate athletes, parents, coaches, and experts who address the challenges specific to sport parenting. Kathy earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of South Florida and master’s degree in Psychology with a concentration in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University and a PhD at Regent University in the Counselor Education and Supervision program. Her research interests include perfectionism and sport parenting. Kathy is also listed in the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee’s Mental Health Registry. Savannah Hipes is a licensed therapist who helps highly driven, sleep-deprived professionals who feel exhausted and on edge to finally sleep through the night. She is trained in the treatment of Insomnia and Nightmares, as well as other conditions commonly co-occurring with sleep disorders such as Anxiety and Eating Disorders. Savannah works with clients in-person in Central Florida, and virtually throughout FL and NY. She values using evidence-based practices and thorough interdisciplinary collaboration and consultation to provide a premium therapy experience.

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Shadow Work

Start
09 May 2024
End
09 May 2025
Location
Online (GoToWebinar)

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Description: This webinar is designed to explain Shadow work which is described as working with the sub-conscious mind. How client's can define their triggers and begin emotionally healing from trauma. It is defined as having benefits such as bringing clarity and self-acceptance.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1201504

This is an event sponsored by FMHCA. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

Getting acquainted with the Inner Child
Understanding the Needs
Guidance

About the Presenter:

Jessmary is a LMHC in Orlando, Florida. She currently works in a mental health agency with kids, teenagers and adults'. She specializes in working with depression, anxiety and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. She believes that understanding and comforting your inner child can change our perceptions more efficiently. Kathy Feinstein is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Sport Performance Consultant. Since 1998, her unique practice has empowered children, adolescents, adults, couples, families and teams to achieve greater satisfaction in sport, health and life.

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The Brain Becomes What the Brain Does

Start
24 May 2024
End
24 May 2025
Location
On Demand (GoToWebinar)

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Description: A stressed brain impacts a healthy mental state. This webinar examines the neurological impact of early life stress and how it relates to mental wellness.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1211430

This event is sponsored by FMHCA, an NBCC-Approved Continuing Education Provider. FMHCA NBCC Provider# 2058. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. FMHCA is solely responsible for all aspects of the program. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

To educate the attendee in how a stress brain functions
To show the correlation of early life stress and mental wellness
To show how relational learning can impact or negate a stressed brain
To give practical tools in how to change a stressed brain to a calm brain

About the Presenter:

Vince Callahan received his master’s degree from Regent University in 1986 and began a thirty-six year career as a professional counselor, and educator, working with individuals and families in both private practice and in-patient hospital settings. As part of the intensive work that has been done, he has studied the needs of children and the impact dysfunctional family systems have on their growth and development. Fueled by the desire to investigate these and other issues within the field of learning and development he began his doctoral work at Regent University in 2010. Vince’s doctoral focus has been the neurological impact of emotional trauma and its effect on academic performance. Intrigued by the implications within the educational system of how emotional trauma effects the learning process and academic performance, Dr. Callahan has spent the last twelve years researching early life stress and neurological development. A key element that his research uncovered is the viability of creating a relational learning environment within the classroom which would impact the learning ability of children who have experienced early life stress. Vince has documented over thirty thousand clinical counseling hours of individual and family counseling. He has worked in many therapeutic venues, in-patient psychiatric hospital units, private practice, church-based counseling centers and PACT teams. As a Christian counselor he believes in the power of God to “set the captive free” while utilizing sound psychological principles to assist clients in uncovering their interpersonal issues. Vince has conducted many family conferences throughout the United States and seven foreign countries. Within the conference setting individuals and families find healing and hope for their pain and dysfunction. Overview of Professional Career Years 1-10 (1986-1996) Extensive work in in-patient psychiatric hospitals, working with both children and adults. Private practice work providing individual and family counseling. Years 11-20 (1996-2006). Developed two-day family conference and presented extensively throughout America and 7 foreign countries. Conducted in-home counseling, authored several books, appeared on multiple radio and television shows to discuss family issues. Years 21-36 (2007-Present). Opened and operated behavioral health company to provide intensive community-based treatment services to severely mentally ill adults. Began and completed Doctor of Education, Regent University. Currently, Adjunct professor, business consultant, professional development trainer, workshop presenter, and counselor. Current Speaking Topics The Brain Becomes What the Brain Does Attachment-Resilience-Motivation: The key to Thriving Understanding the Stressed Brain The Drama Free Home Understanding Your Child’s Brain The Leader’s Brain As a mental health expert with over three decades of experience I am able to speak on most areas of individual, family related mental health issues. As someone that has researched the brain and neuroscience topics for the past 13 years I am able to speak on many issues that deal with the brain and behavior.

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Accepting Help: Addressing Burnout and Burnout Prevention

Start
14 Jun 2024
End
14 Jun 2025
Location
On Demand (GoToWebinar)

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Description: As a professional in this field, burnout is a topic that we may be all too familiar with. While assisting clients with burnout might come easily, accepting help as a clinician is not always so simple. Learn ways to recognize burnout and compassion fatigue, alleviate any occurrences, and prevent returning to the state again in the future.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1130568

This is an event sponsored by FMHCA. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

Successfully recognize signs of burnout and compassion fatigue in mental health professionals
Learn skills to alleviate burnout and impacts of burnout
Acquire resources for preventing burnout in the future

About the Presenter:

Ashley Burchell is Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in New Jersey and Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York and Florida. She has experience working with children and adolescents, adults of all ages, families, and takes a particular interest in treating women’s issues. Ms. Burchell’s clinical area of focus is managing the effects of trauma and disordered eating behaviors or self-image concerns. Some of her previous work has included providing inpatient counseling services on a women’s unit, leading a specialty track on early recovery from addiction and PTSD, as well as conducting outpatient mental health counseling across the spectrum of disorders. Ms. Burchell utilizes a holistic approach, with a focus on evidence-based treatment modalities including CBT, DBT, and MI, as well as incorporating Somatic approaches and Polyvagal Theory. Attachment-based interventions are also utilized. Ms. Burchell has experience providing clinical case consultation and supports provisionally licensed clinicians in building their counseling skills and building professionalism. She has led seminars and trainings on site and for outside organizations to assist staff in enhancing their skills and navigating new concepts and modalities.

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Attachment Focus: Healing Inner Wounds

Start
18 Jun 2024
End
18 Jun 2025
Location
On Demand (GoToWebinar)

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Description: Looking at our clients through an attachment lens can open discussions for healing in ways they may have not considered. Many clients state they had a happy childhood. But upon further exploration, they disclose a parent was an alcoholic, or work always came first. This webinar will discuss intake questions to identify potential attachment wounds and offer interventions that work to heal the wounds within. Sandra will also define therapists’ attachment styles that show up in the counseling session.
CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1219862

This is an event sponsored by FMHCA. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

Explain the 4 attachment styles.Explain Intake
Questions to help identify attachment wounds.
Define how neglect, rejection, and abuse from attachment trauma interact between the wounded inner child and the adult within.
Define therapists' attachment styles in the counseling session.

About the Presenter:

Sandra B. Stanford has a heart for people who find themselves in hard situations. Because of this passion, she earned her master’s degree in Psychological Counseling. Her work with clients is collaborative working alongside the client to help in the healing process. Sandra is an EMDRIA Approved Consultant and Advanced Trainer and is certified in EMDR Therapy. Sandra has training in attachment theory and in somatic healing. She offers a 2-day workshop for therapists pairing attachment theory and EMDR Therapy. Find more information at www.sandrabstanfordcounseling.com and www.centralfloridaemdrtraining.com.

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What Challenges face Mental Health Counselors Working with Medicare Recipients

Start
15 Jul 2024
End
15 Jul 2025
Location
On Demand (GoToWebinar)

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Description: The Good News was that as of Jan 2024, Mental Health Counselors will be eligible for Medicare Reimbursement for offering their counseling services to Senior Citizens, but the Bad News is that most counselors have never been given training in providing care to this population. The goal of this workshop is to review issues facing the elderly which Counselors need to know about and how to address these concerns.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1227514

This is an event sponsored by FMHCA. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

Trainees will learn about the physical and emotional health problems facing people 65 years or older and how to address these concerns in counseling sessions.
Trainees will learn about the impact of loneliness, ageism, and the stigma of mental illness as obstacles to treating aging seniors.
Trainees will learn about specific intervention strategies which are effective when working with aging seniors.
Trainees will learn about expanded resources available to them as they begin to work with the Medicare population.

About the Presenter:

Jim Messina is a retired psychologist/mental health counselor who has worked extensively with senior citizens during his long career. He was the cofounder and second president of AMHCA and was an active lobbyist to get the Federal Government to pass legislation to cover mental health counselors under Medicare. He is now an active volunteer at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. where he and his wife now live.

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Money Matters: Exploring Trauma's Impact on Money and Mindset

Start
07 Aug 2024
End
07 Aug 2025
Location
On Demand (GoToWebinar)

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Description: Money Matters workshop explores the profound connection between money and trauma, providing valuable insights and practical strategies for both clients and clinicians. Attendees will explore the origins of core beliefs about money and how those beliefs impact our financial behavior. We will also uncover the connection between trauma and financial decision-making and explore the effects of money shame on both clients and clinicians within a therapeutic context. Workshop attendees will be presented strategies to challenge limiting beliefs and create a personalized, empowering money narrative that fosters financial healing and transformation.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1236750

This is an event sponsored by FMHCA. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

Recognize the Intersection of Trauma and Money
Uncover Core Beliefs and Money Scripts
Discovering how Money Mindset impacts Clients and Clinicians
Learn Strategies for Overcoming Money Trauma and Building Financial Resilience

About the Presenter:

Tiffanie Trudeau is a Licensed Mental Health and Professional Counselor, independently licensed in Florida and the Commonwealth of Virginia, and offers in-person and virtual counseling services. Tiffanie is also a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), Collaborative Divorce Professional and Qualified Clinical Supervisor, with 15 years of experience and advance training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and Gottman Method for couples. Tiffanie is the owner and operator of Counseling Alliance, a private psychotherapy practice in Rockledge, Florida serving adults and couples and specializing in the treatment of mood and addiction disorders, post, acute and betrayal trauma reactions, compulsive and problematic sexual behaviors and divorce support. In addition to individual and couples counseling, Tiffanie provides executive coaching and organizational trainings and workshops as well as facilitates counseling groups and critical incident stress management debriefings. Tiffanie also serves on the executive board for Counselors for Change, is a member of the Brevard Collaborative Professionals group partnering with local attorneys in supporting divorcing families and is an adjunct professor at the University of Central Florida training and supervising graduate students at the Community Counseling and Research Center (CCRC). Tiffanie is not all work and no play, as she is also an active creator on the social media app, TikTok, producing mental health content in hopes of breaking the stigma surrounding mental health, demystifying the therapy process and normalizing rest and value-based living.

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Pregnancy Loss: Helping Families Grieve

Start
19 Aug 2024
End
19 Aug 2025
Location
On Demand (GoToWebinar)

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Description: Each year over 1 million families in the US experience the loss of a child through pregnancy loss. This presentation will explore the impact of this loss of individuals and families.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1240576

This is an event sponsored by FMHCA. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

Identify three determinants of how people grieve.
Identify three differences in how moms and dads grieve
Identify three losses with the loss of a child

About the Presenter:

Gary Vogel, LMHC has worked in the field of pregnancy and infant loss since 1991. He designed and still facilitates a support group for couples experience this loss. He has traveled across the country presenting information on this little understood, yet common experience. He is also a grieving father, having lost his daughter, who was stillborn.

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Beyond The Uniform: Empowering Veterans in Transition from Service to Civilian Life

Start
28 Aug 2024
End
28 Aug 2025
Location
On Demand (GoToWebinar)

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Description: This webinar provides a comprehensive analysis of the specific challenges that veterans encounter when transitioning from military to civilian life. We will delve into the difficulties they face in adapting to civilian norms, finding employment, establishing social connections, and maintaining mental well-being. Drawing inspiration from the renowned psychologist Carl Jung, we will intertwine his theories with real-life narratives from veterans. By doing so, we hope to shed light on the often-overlooked aspects of career transitions and the profound realizations that emerge from them. Specifically tailored for Mental Health Counselors, this webinar not only seeks to inform but also inspire and equip attendees with practical strategies. These strategies are designed to help veterans harness the valuable skills and insights gained during their military service and effectively apply them in the civilian world. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the hurdles veterans face, as well as the moments of awakening and transformation that are inherent in mid-career shifts. This knowledge will pave the way for a fulfilling journey of personal growth and professional evolution for the veterans and the counselors who support them.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1243954

This is an event sponsored by FMHCA. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

Participants will be equipped to analyze veterans' personal values, beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors, enabling them to understand and address the unique challenges veterans face during their transition from service to civilian life.
Participants will be able to identify the diverse influences, including military experiences, that shape a veteran's personal values and beliefs, allowing for more tailored and effective counseling strategies.
Participants will be adept at recognizing and categorizing the distinct generational values and experiences of veterans, facilitating a more nuanced understanding of the challenges faced by veterans of different age groups and service eras.
Participants will be proficient in mapping the developmental stages of a veteran's value evolution, from their time in service to their transition into civilian life, ensuring an integrated approach to their counseling and support.

About the Presenter:

As an enthusiastic advocate for personal growth and well-being, Maria Giuliana, LMHC, QS, BC-THP exemplifies transformational leadership in counseling and personal development. With a rich background in clinical and supervisory roles, she has firmly established herself as a leading figure in the field. As the CEO and Founder of Beyond The Matter Counseling and Consulting Services LLC in Florida, Maria brings her extensive expertise to the forefront, specializing in trauma-informed, multi-culturally competent counseling focusing on Military and LGBTQI Populations. A dynamic presenter and authoritative voice in her domain, Maria has graced various local, state, and national platforms, delivering impactful presentations that resonate with her audience. Her sessions, centered around the military, cultural competency, and ethical considerations, are a treasure trove of knowledge for mental health counselors navigating the complexities of serving military and LGBTQI populations. Maria's prolific contributions to professional publications and presentations testify to her unwavering commitment to advancing knowledge in her field. Her specialized insights, as seen in works like "Uncovering the Invisible Wounds of Military Trauma" and "Ethical Considerations When Working With LGBTQ+ Veterans," highlight her dedication to best practices and transformative change. In this webinar, Maria will empower you with the tools and knowledge essential for fostering a positive and impactful counseling experience for veterans in transition.

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The Interstate Counseling Compact: The Privilege to Practice in Other States

Start
26 Sep 2024
End
29 Aug 2025
Location
On Demand (GoToWebinar)

Register

Please be advised that this event is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not qualify for Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Description: Soon mental health professionals will have another means to obtain the ability to practice across state lines. This session will provide information on how the Counseling Compact works and how they can obtain the privilege to practice in other states. The presenter will also provide information to consider before a mental health professional chooses to practice across state lines and under the jurisdiction of another state.

Please be advised that this event is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not qualify for Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

This event is Sponsored By: The Sylvia Brafman Mental Health Center

Learning Objectives:

Participants will be able to describe the general principles of a compact
Participants will be able to describe how the Counseling Compact will issue privileges
Participants will be able to explain how the Commission operates and which states are members
Participants will be able to list some of the ethical and legal issues associated with the Compact

About the Presenter:

Greg Searls is a licensed funeral service practitioner in the State of Wyoming. He began his work in the regulatory world when he was appointed by the Governor of Wyoming to serve on the Board of Funeral Service Practitioners in 2010. In 2016, he resigned from the Board when he was hired as an Executive Director in the State of Wyoming Professional Licensing Board office.

Greg served as the Executive Director for the Mental Health Professions Licensing Board, Board of Registration in Podiatry, Board of Midwifery, Board of Examiners in Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists, Board of Hearing Aid Specialists, Board of Athletic Trainers, and Board of Occupational Therapist.

During his time as executive director, Wyoming passed the statutes to join the ASLP-IC, Occupational Therapy Compact, and Counseling Compact. He served as the ex-officio representative to the Counseling Compact Commission for AASCB until Wyoming joined the compact and he was named commissioner for his home state.

He has a bachelor’s degree in Mortuary Science and a certificate of Gerontology from Gannon University in Erie, Pennsylvania, and an Associate’s Degree in Specialized Funeral Service Technology from the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science.

Greg is co-author of the article Counseling and the Interstate Compact: Navigating Ethical Practice Across State Lines published in The Professional Counselor in the fall of 2023.

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Is Reunification a Therapy or a Process?

Start
11 Oct 2024
End
11 Oct 2025
Location
Online (GoToWebinar)

Register

Description: Reunification is court-ordered when a child resists or refuses timesharing with a parent. Judges, attorneys, mediators, and even therapists who have no idea why a child is resisting or refusing frequently recommend reunification. But is this in the best interest of the child? How does this work? Is it therapy or a process? Unless you have been trained in this area, you may be adding to the problem instead of promoting healing.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1260077

This is an event sponsored by FMHCA. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

Clearly define reunification and establish it as a process and not therapy
Discuss best practices, how to protect the child, and how to heal the family unit
Review ethical considerations, confidentiality, and testifying in court proceedings

About the Presenter:

Christine Hammond is a leading mental health influencer, author and guest speaker. As an author of the award-winning “The Exhausted Woman’s Handbook,” and more than 500 articles, Christine has more than one million people downloading her podcast “Understanding Today’s Narcissist,” and more than 400,000 views on YouTube. Her practice specializes in treating families of abuse, and trauma, with personality disorders involved which is based on her own personal experience. Her new book, Abuse Exposed: Identifying Family Secrets that Breed Dysfunction is available. Christine is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Qualified Supervisor by the State of Florida, a National Certified Counselor, Certified Family Trauma Professional, with extensive training in crisis intervention and peaceful resolution.

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Trauma Informed Care when working with First Responders

Start
21 Oct 2024
End
21 Oct 2025
Location
Online (GoToWebinar)

Register

Description: It’s important to use the principles of trauma informed care in a way that is tailored to the needs of first responders you may work with. It can be difficult to seek this information out on your own. This presentation gives you access to everything you need to know about how to understand the unique needs of and help first responders in your practice.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1262018

This is an event sponsored by FMHCA. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

Participants will understand the unique challenges of working with First Responders
Participants will understand the concept of trauma informed care
Participants will understand proper critical incident aftercare with first responders

About the Presenter:

Dr. Meredith Moran has a Master’s Degree in Criminology from the University of South Florida, and a Doctor of Education in Counseling Psychology from Argosy University. She started her career as a law enforcement officer in Pinellas County (FL), with the City of Largo police department from 1993 to 1999. After obtaining her Master’s degree in 1999, she was hired as a training program coordinator at the St. Petersburg College Allstate Center. She joined Operation PAR, Inc. as a research assistant in October 2008. During her 12.5 years at Operation PAR, Dr. Moran worked in various positions helping adolescents and adults recover from substance use and behavioral health challenged. In 2019, Dr. Moran opened her private practice, Front Line Wellness, where she specializes in trauma care for military and first responder personnel.

Dianeka Jones is a dedicated and accomplished professional with extensive experience in law enforcement, forensic psychology, and community service. She holds a Master of Science in Forensic Psychology from Nova Southeastern University, where she graduated with a 3.90 GPA, and dual Bachelor's degrees in Family, Youth, and Community Sciences, and Criminology from the University of Florida, both earned with honors.

Dianeka currently serves as a Certified Police Officer with the Saint Petersburg Police Department, where she has taken on roles including Detective with the Special Investigation Unit and Community Service Officer. Her exemplary service earned her the title of Community Service Officer of the Year in November 2022. Her work has involved community relations, crime scene preservation, and the execution of high-stakes operations such as surveillance and warrant execution.

Her previous roles include Certified Forensic Interviewer with Child Advocacy Services and Child Protective Investigator with both Pasco and Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Offices. In these capacities, Dianeka demonstrated her ability to handle sensitive and complex cases involving child abuse and neglect, conducting thorough investigations and collaborating with legal and social services.

Dianeka's leadership skills are evidenced by her experience as a Class Leader at the SPC Allstate Center-Police Academy and as a Department Field Trainer at the Pasco Sheriff's Office, where she was recognized as Employee of the Year. She has also managed teams in the private sector as a Department Manager at Target Corporation.

Her commitment to community service extends beyond her professional duties. She has been actively involved with the Police Athletic League of St. Petersburg, mentoring at-risk youth, and has participated in numerous community initiatives, including tutoring, homeless outreach, and public speaking on issues such as drug and alcohol awareness.

In addition to her professional and volunteer work, Dianeka has pursued research in forensic psychology, focusing on the effectiveness of mental health services for children exposed to maltreatment, and strategic planning for crime reduction and economic improvement in urban neighborhoods.

Dianeka's diverse skill set, including certification as a personal trainer and nutritional coach, and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, further complements her professional capabilities. Her multifaceted background and dedication to service make her a valuable asset to any organization or community she serves.

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Songwriting

Start
21 Jan 2025
End
21 Jan 2026

Description: This presentation will focus on ways to adapt music therapy interventions into the Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral modality. Trauma narration is an essential component of the TFCBT model, but can often be difficult for our younger clients (5-10) to do. Songwriting and lyric analysis can be incredibly useful in allowing self expression, processing, and understanding of the narration process through an approachable medium. In this training, you will learn about music therapy principles that can be adapted and utilized in the TFCBT model. You will receive access to prepared lyric analyses, songwriting formats, and step by step instructions for integrating into your trauma narration process. We will explore music therapy as a concept, it’s role in trauma processing, and guidelines for best practices.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1278890

This is an event sponsored by FMHCA. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

Recognize 2 uses of music therapy in trauma narration.
Summarize songwriting protocol for trauma narration.
Identify 3-4 songs that can be utilized with the songwriting narration method.

About the Presenter:

Megan Dasbach, LMHC, NCC, MT-BC is the Program Director and Therapist at The Therapy Room. She received her degree in music therapy from Ohio University and became a Board Certified Music Therapist in 2013. She started her career working at Florida State Hospital, an in-patient forensic and civil psychiatric facility. In her time there, she became the director of treatment services and the trauma informed care facility trainer. Megan completed her CMHC degree in 2017 and became a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in 2023. From 2018 until 2023 she was a project manager and wellness coordinator for The Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, specializing in rural and law enforcement mental health. During this time she also worked as a therapist with Camelot Community Care, specializing with children in foster care, crisis mental health, and family therapy. She has certifications as a Certified Public Manager, Trauma-Informed Care Facility Trainer, Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Adoptions Competency, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. In 2023 she won the proposal to write the curriculum for DCF’s Step into Success, a 40-hour training program to help youth aging out of foster care prepare for the professional world. The program was piloted in the spring of 2024. In her current role at The Therapy Room, she specializes working with our youngest clients, typically ages 4-9. We utilize a variety of creative modalities to help process trauma, build understanding of safe/unsafe relationships, and bonding strategies with caregivers. She has also been a consultant for LWC for the past 7 years, building and facilitating

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Integrative Approaches to Financial Counseling and Coaching in Mental Health Practice

Start
13 Mar 2025
End
13 Mar 2026
Location
Online (GoToWebinar)

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Description: "Integrative Approaches to Financial Counseling and Coaching in Mental Health Practice" refers to combining financial education and support within mental health care. This approach recognizes financial stress's significant impact on mental health and well-being and then aims to address both aspects simultaneously. It provides mental health professionals with tools and strategies for financial education to offer alternatives and facilitate decision-making and goal-setting. Experiential learning is achieved through analyzing real-life case studies through groups and discussions. We will create a viable action plan for the case studies as a group.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1290325

This is an event sponsored by FMHCA. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

Evaluate Alternatives with clients in financial distress
Analyze a client's current financial situation through monthly spending analysis Incorporate financial coaching techniques into their sessions
Create a viable action plan for financial health

About the Presenter:

Heather Aiello holds a Baccalaureate in Industrial/Organizational Psychology and a Master of Science Degree specializing in Education, Mental Health, and Family Counseling. She is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and holds numerous certifications. As a faculty member at three institutions of higher learning, she has successfully coordinated two career development programs and authored curricula. Heather Aiello's role as a consultant for educational institutions and public and private agencies is one of her key professional roles. Since 1988, as the founder and director of the National Association of Certified Credit Counselors (NACCC), she has overseen the development of six nationally recognized certification programs, fifteen continuing education programs, and various educational initiatives in the field of Financial/Credit Counseling/Coaching Professionals. Her expert advice and reassurance have been a cornerstone of her work, helping thousands. As the sponsor and Board Chair of the Society for Financial and Career Consulting Professionals, a member-driven organization, she equips her clients with the training and tools to empower others, continuously inspiring those around her with her commitment. Ms. Aiello is also a member of the American Counseling Association, Florida Mental Health Counselors Association, Kappa Delta Pi, Chi Sigma Iota, Psi Chi Honor Society, and the American Businesswomen’s Association.

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FMHCA's Dos and Don'ts of Lobbying for the Counseling Profession

Start
13 Mar 2025
End
13 Mar 2026
Location
Online (GoToWebinar)

Registration is closed

Description: Professional advocacy is essential for the wellbeing of the counseling profession and the general public. FMHCA is calling on it's membership to make contact with legislators, introducing themselves and offering FMHCA as a resource for issues impacting our profession and our clients, but if you're like most counselors, you haven't been trained on how to have an impactful interaction with legislators. You might also feel nervous or insecure about doing so. Presented by members of FMHCA's Government Relations Committee (GRC) who have experience interacting with legislators, this webinar was designed build your confidence, so you can interact meaningfully with legislators and other government officials. You'll learn about professional advocacy and it's importance to the profession, watch role plays illustrative effective and ineffective interactions with legislators, and learn how to deliver an "elevator pitch" to legislators.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1290332

This is an event sponsored by FMHCA. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

Define professional advocacy, and describe it's importance within the counseling profession.
Avoid "pitfalls" when interacting with legislators.
Contact a legislator and facilitate a brief, meaningful, and relevant conversation with them about mental health.

About the Presenter:

Dr. Aaron Norton is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with certifications in addictions, alcohol and drug counseling, rehabilitation counseling, clinical mental health counseling, trauma treatment, forensic mental health evaluation, forensic behavioral analysis, telehealth, and forensic psychometry. He chairs FMHCA’s Government Relations Committee and serves as Executive Director of the National Board of Forensic Evaluators, Assistant Professor of Instruction at the University of South Dept. of Mental Health Law & Policy, and International Counseling Task Force Chair for the American Mental Health Counselors Association. He has several years of experience lobbying for the profession on the national and state level.

Laura Peddie-Bravo, LMHC, NCC is the Past President of the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association, FMHCA. She is also a member of FMHCA’s Government Relations Committee, and has served since 2021. She has experience lobbying on behalf of FMHCA, and has experience interacting with local, state and national legislators. Laura graduated from The University of Central Florida’s CACREP accredited Counselor Education program in 1998, obtained her NCC credential in 1999, and obtained her license in 2001. Prior to serving on the FMHCA Board, Laura served on her local FMHCA Chapter board, The Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida, (MHCCF), for many years. Apart from volunteering for the Mental Health Counseling profession, Laura owns a private practice, The Bravo Counseling Group, LLC, in Winter Park, Florida. Among her specialties are Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Post Partum conditions, and working with clients and families with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Demetrius K. Jifunza, MS, LMHC is a current member of FMHCA’s Government Relations Committee. He has experience interacting with local, state, and national representatives. He was an instrumental figure in the passing of 2018 Amendment 4, which restored voting rights to formerly incarcerated citizens. Demetrius Jifunza graduated from The National Louis University, Tampa campus in the Clinical Mental Health Program where he is also currently in his last year of pursuing his doctorate in Counseling Education and Supervision. Demetrius Jifunza also serves as the committee chair for the Suncoast Mental Health Counselors Association. He is currently employed at CAN Community Health as a mental health provider and he is in private practice, at Jifunza Counseling Services, PLLC.

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Upcoming Events

Featured Members

OnDemand Webinars

Working With Clients Who Have Chronic Health Issues and Chronic Pain

The Heart of Addiction: An Emerging Paradigm for Understanding Addiction

Meditation for Therapists: How to Breathe and Meditate for Self Care

The Neurobiology of Trauma and Its Implications for Successful Treatment

No Hocus Pocus, Just Focus: Strategies for Optimizing Focus and Concentration

How to Build a Smart and Ethical Private Practice

Culturally Competent Play Therapy for Grief & Loss

Effective Suicide Prevention, Intervention and Postvention

Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders: Debunking Myths and Building Clinical Competency

What Counselors Need to Know About Recent Legislation Impacting LGBTQ+ Clients

Adopting a Trauma-Lens: How to Build Protective Factors and Resilience with Adolescents

Dual Diagnosis: Challenges, Experiences and Recommendations

Compassion Fatigue is Real! Let's Talk About It!

Young at Heart: Exploring Young Adult Literature as a Therapeutic Intervention

Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities: Why Should You Care?

Heartminded Parenting

It's Not What You See in the Movies: Uncovering the Invisible Wounds of Military Trauma

BIOREGULATION THERAPY -- Integrating Body Biofeedback & Pulsed Electro-Magnetic Field Therapy into Psychotherapy: A Holistic Approach

Trauma Informed Care

Cultivating Excellence: Redefining Perfectionism in Performance Counseling

Shadow Work

The Brain Becomes What the Brain Does

Accepting Help: Addressing Burnout and Burnout Prevention

Attachment Focus: Healing Inner Wounds

What Challenges face Mental Health Counselors Working with Medicare Recipients

Money Matters: Exploring Trauma's Impact on Money and Mindset

Pregnancy Loss: Helping Families Grieve

Beyond The Uniform: Empowering Veterans in Transition from Service to Civilian Life

The Interstate Counseling Compact: The Privilege to Practice in Other States

Is Reunification a Therapy or a Process?

Trauma Informed Care when working with First Responders

Songwriting

Integrative Approaches to Financial Counseling and Coaching in Mental Health Practice

FMHCA's Dos and Don'ts of Lobbying for the Counseling Profession