Event Descriptions, Speakers, & Learning Objectives

Day 1- July 23rd 2025 | Core Competencies for Registered Mental Counselor Interns: Ethics, Clinical Assessment, and Domestic Violence

8:30 AM-10:30 AM | The Do's and Don'ts of Being a Registered Intern

So you FINALY made it, huh? After all those years of readings, lectures, exams, practicum hours, and assignments, you've earned your master's degree in clinical mental health counseling, and you're ready to embark on a 2+-year journey of internship as registered mental health counselor intern. Oh, the places you’ll go! The people you’ll meet! The many things you’ll learn and experience, all inevitably leading to those gleaming, sparkly letters behind your name: "LMHC" (cue angelic voices in the background). But are you sure you know what to do next? Better yet—do you know what NOT to do? Ever been to a 491 board disciplinary hearing? If you have, you’ve probably noticed that a disproportionate number of counselors being disciplined by the board for legal and ethical violations are (gasp)—you guess it---interns! This 2-hour session will offer you practical tips on what to do (and NOT do) to make the most of your internship.

Learning Objectives:

• Match yourself with a qualified supervisor.
• Adhere to laws and rules governing registered interns.
• Expand employment and learning opportunities as a registered intern.

Presented By: Aaron Norton, PhD, LMHC, LMFT, MCAP, CRC

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, assistant professor of instruction at the University of South Florida Department of Mental Health Law & Policy, 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 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, served on the expert panel that created the standards and written exam for the Florida Certification Board’s Certified Telehealth Practitioner (CTP) credential, and has been published in several journals and professional magazines. He has 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist and clinical supervisor.

Earns 2 General CEUs | CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1303714

11:00 AM-12:00 PM | Qualified Supervisor and Supervisee Meeting

Are you a Qualified Supervisor looking for more Interns to supervise? Are you an Intern looking for a Supervisor? Join us on July 23rd for our online networking mixer. This is a great opportunity for you to meet your potential supervisor, supervisee, or network with others within the field!

This is not a CEU event.

12:30 PM-2:30 PM | Domestic Violence 2025

This introductory course examines both the definition and characteristics of domestic violence relationships. Participants in this course will gain an understanding of the dynamics within these relationships and the various types of abuse that can occur. Frequency of occurrence among different populations will be reviewed and participants will be able to identify the signs of abusive relationships. This course also identifies the various reactions survivors can have, appropriate screening tools to identify domestic violence and the most effective treatment options for clinicians to utilize with clients.

Learning Objectives:

• Define domestic violence and summarize its impact on society.
• Identify cycles of behaviors and various trauma responses.
• Establish an effective treatment plan for this specific population.

 Presented By: Victoria Siegel, MS, LMHC, LCPC, LPC, QS

Victoria Siegel is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Qualified Supervisor in the State of Florida, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Registered Counselor Supervisor in the state of Idaho, and a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Colorado. After completing her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Central Florida, she obtained her Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University. Vickie is currently a second year doctoral student at UCF working towards her PhD in Counselor Education. Within her 13 years as a therapist, she has worked in various treatment settings with a diverse range of clientele. Vickie is the owner of Pegasus Counseling Services, LLC where she provides individual and group telehealth therapy to adult clients. Vickie’s specialties include working with victims of crime (domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, homicide and human trafficking), self-esteem, shame, PTSD, grief and loss, and addiction. Vickie has a passion for working with trauma and incorporates creative practices, like Sandtray Therapy and art therapy, into her sessions. Vickie is also the owner of The Pegasus Academy, LLC where she provides continuing education and professional development and Pegasus Consulting Services, LLC where she provides consultation and qualified supervision.

Earns 2 Domestic Violence CEUs | CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1303720

3:30 PM-5:30 PM | Understanding the Unique Challenges of Assessment with Counseling Students

Assessing college students in mental health counseling programs is a crucial component of both their academic and personal development. Effective assessment helps identify strengths, areas for growth, and the unique challenges that students may face in their journey to becoming professional counselors. However, it is essential that assessments be conducted with cultural sensitivity and awareness. Counseling students come from diverse backgrounds, and their cultural identity significantly influences their mental health, coping strategies, and approach to counseling practice. This presentation will explore how to assess counseling students while considering the cultural factors that shape their experiences, both in academic settings and in their future roles as clinicians. By incorporating culturally competent assessment practices, we can support students in navigating the personal and professional challenges they encounter and help foster a diverse and inclusive counseling community

Learning Objectives:

• Understanding the Unique Challenges of Counseling Students.
• Understanding the Role of Assessment in Counseling Student Development.
• Understanding and Developing Strategies for Conducting Culturally Competent Assessments.
• Developing Best Practices for Supporting Counseling Students.

Presented By: Julie Vogel, Ed.D., LMHC, LPC/ MHSP, ACS, NCC

Dr. Vogel has been a faculty member at South University since July 2018 and also operates a private practice, Julie Vogel Counseling, specializing in trauma, women’s issues, and supporting the LGBTQ community. She earned her EdD from Argosy University in Nashville, TN. Over the course of her career, she has held various roles, including Case Manager, Community Organizer, and Regional Director at an adoption agency in New York. Dr. Vogel completed her master’s degree at Long Island University/CW Post in New York. Originally from Wisconsin, she has lived and worked in Long Island, NY, Tennessee, Virginia, and currently resides in West Palm Beach, FL. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys mentoring counseling students working toward licensure. Dr. Vogel has a deep commitment to supporting individuals facing prejudice—whether due to economic status, race, gender, or sexual identity—and approaches her work from a place of acceptance, empathy, and strength.

Earns 2 General CEUs | CE Broker Tracking  #: 20-1303724

Day 2- July 24th 2025 | Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern Essentials: HIV/AIDs, Licensure Exam Success, and Self-Care Strategies

8:30 AM-11:30 AM | Addressing the Intersection: Navigating HIV in Mental health Practice

In today’s time, HIV/AIDS is a treatable preventable disease, but still a fatal disease, meaning that there is no known current cure. It is important for mental health professionals to be knowledgeable when it comes to treating clients who may be infected with HIV/AIDS. This interactive course has been specifically designed for mental health professionals to address the basics of STIs HIV/AIDS, Outline strategic objectives and prevention strategies to addressing HIV and STIs, and explore the sociological implications of Societal stigma. Current information about HIV/AIDS, including definitions, transmission, types of virus, how a person becomes infected, progression, evidence that HIV causes AIDS and how, and the origin of HIV/AIDS will be reviewed. This course also focuses on the law versus ethics, reporting ethical violations, and ethical issues specific to mental health professionals. Prevention concerns are addressed by recognizing special populations.

Learning Objectives:

• Discuss the role of the therapist in counseling those with HIV, including how to implement "client-centered" counseling, identify key issues in counseling, and how to address family issues, mental health disorders, legal issues surrounding discrimination and stigma, and end-of-life issues.
• Identify the steps in the ethical decision-making process and apply these steps to professional practice.
• Describe the importance of prevention efforts for HIV disease infection and the special populations that are vulnerable to infection.

Presented By: Cortina D. Peters-Louis, Ph.D., LMHC-QS, LPC, LCPV, QST

Dr. Louis’s passion for helping individuals reach their full potential inspired her to establish Boundless Living Coaching, Counseling, & Consulting, a firm dedicated to supporting individuals and organizations in thriving and achieving optimal performance. In 2020, she expanded her focus to address the intersection of social justice, racial trauma, and mental health, founding The NOIR Center for Intuitive Health & Counseling to provide culturally responsive care. As an advocate for sexual wellness, Dr. Louis created SExD Unveiled, a program emphasizing trust, safety, and communication in intimate relationships. She specializes in addressing the intersection of intimacy, health challenges, and sexual satisfaction, empowering clients to navigate these sensitive areas with confidence and clarity.

Earns 3 HIV CEUs | CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1303715

12:00 PM-2:00 PM | What You Need to Know to PASS the 2025 NCMHCE Narrative Exam

The webinar covers three areas necessary to pass the new 2025 Narrative NCMHCE exam: explaining how the exam is constructed, summarizing areas covered on the exam, and applying a structured approach for dissecting the narratives. The new exam is based on a theoretical construct and research-supported evidence-based practices. In this session, we'll cover three crucial areas that will set you up for success: 1. Demystifying the Exam Structure: Gain insider insights into how the new Narrative NCMHCE is constructed, allowing you to approach it confidently and strategically. 2. Content Crash Course: This course provides a concise yet thorough summary of the key areas covered on the exam, ensuring you're well-prepared for every potential topic. 3. Narrative Navigation: Learn a structured, step-by-step approach to dissecting the exam's narratives, empowering you to easily tackle even the most complex scenarios. You'll have the opportunity to: Evaluate your current preparedness: Identify your strengths and pinpoint areas for improvement, allowing you to tailor your study plan effectively and Understand the exam's foundation: Explore the theoretical construct and evidence-based practices that form the backbone of the new NCMHCE, giving you a deeper appreciation of its relevance to your future practice.

Learning Objectives:

• Participants will be able to explain how the new NCMHCE narrative exam is constructed and gain insights on how to approach the exam.
• Participants will be able to summarize areas covered on the exam
• Participants will be able to apply a structured approach for dissecting the narratives
• Participants will be able to evaluate their current strengths and weaknesses in their exam preparation

 Presented By: Robert Linton Hutchinson, Ph.D., LMHC, NCC and Stacy Frost, Certified Life Coach

Dr. Linton Hutchinson has taught counseling education and psychology for three decades. He earned his Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology and Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling. Dr. Hutchinson has demonstrated comprehensive counseling curriculum expertise, including foundational counseling principles, through advanced studies in research methodology and psychological assessment.

Stacy Frost serves as the Content Curator at Licensure Exams, where she develops and implements comprehensive educational curricula focusing on licensure preparation for mental health professionals, with particular emphasis on the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE). Drawing from her extensive background in medical sciences and specialized expertise in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR), Stacy synthesizes clinical knowledge with pedagogical methodologies.

Earns 2 General CEUs | CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1303719

2:00 PM-3:00 PM | Graduate Student & Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern Committee Meeting

Connect with fellow students and interns in the mental health field during this online meeting. Meet like-minded professionals, share experiences, and engage in discussions that will support your journey as a mental health intern or student. This is a great opportunity to network, collaborate, and exchange valuable insights with others who are navigating similar professional paths.

This is not a CEU event.

3:30 PM-5:30 PM | Keeping Our Cups Full: Building Balance to Maintain Professional Longevity and Counselor Wellness

This presentation will explore the critical importance of wellness for new counselors as they embark on their professional journeys. As the mental health landscape continues to evolve, understanding and prioritizing self-care is vital for sustaining effectiveness in practice and preventing burnout. By equipping new counselors with the knowledge and tools to prioritize their wellness from the start, we can ensure their longevity in the field and enhance the quality of care they provide to clients. The session will include a Q&A segment to foster discussion and encourage participants to share their insights and experiences.

Learning Objectives:

• Participants will develop a personalized action plan that incorporates flexible work strategies and self-care practices to enhance their work-life balance and overall wellness.
• Participants will be able to identify and apply at least three stress management techniques and resilience-building strategies to improve their personal well-being and counseling practice.
• Participants will learn methods to cultivate a supportive network among colleagues, including effective peer mentorship and team-building practices, to foster a collaborative and healthy work environment.

Presented By: Bridget Glass, Ph.D., LMHC, ACS

Dr. Bridget Glass is the Program Director for the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at South University in West Palm Beach, Florida. In addition, Dr. Glass is a licensed Mental Health Counselor, Qualified Supervisor and Approved Clinical Supervisor who specializes in the treatment of childhood trauma, relationship abuse, and workplace distress in the helping professions. She received a her Master of Science with a dual focus in both Mental Health Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy and holds a Doctorate in Counselor Education and Supervision. Dr. Glass' clinical experience extends to both private practice and community settings such as schools and women’s shelters. She provides consultation and training on intimate partner violence, trauma-informed systemic practices, secondary traumatic stress in the helping professions, and counselor resilience for regional and national forums. She is a contributing author to the book, Non-Suicidal Self-Injury Throughout the Lifespan: A Clinician’s Guide to Treatment Considerations, and articles that expand on the literature for Counselor Education. In addition, Dr. Glass currently serves as the Secretary for the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association. Dr. Glass’ self-care practices includes lots of play such as traveling abroad with her husband and swimming with her Golden Doodles.

Earns 2 General CEUs | CE Broker Tracking  #: 20-1303722

Day 3- July 25th 2025 | Laws and Rules for Sharpening Your Ethical Practice

8:30 AM-5:30 PM | The Legal Edge: Laws and Rules for Sharpening Your Ethical Practice (8 Hour Laws and Rules)

This intensive 8-hour course provides Florida mental health professionals with a comprehensive and up-to-date understanding of the legal and ethical landscape governing their practice in the state of Florida. Designed to be both informative and engaging, this training will equip you with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate complex situations, minimize risk, and ensure ethical and compliant service delivery. In this course, you will master core concepts, including confidentiality, informed consent, duty to warn, mandated reporting, and more. You will get more regarding legislation changes and learn how to track them, you will identify difficulties ethical dilemmas and how to apply best practices to stay within the law, and you will gain confidence through real-world scenarios in how to apply your understanding of the law.

Learning Objectives:

• Develop understanding about the laws and rules that regulate mental health professionals regulated by Chapter 491 in the State of Florida.
• Learn how to define the law and confidentiality and how to work within state and federal rules.
• Understand the Florida Mental Health Act (often referred to as the Baker Act) and develop best practices to approach risk management.
• Learn and distinguish elements of Chapter 397, Substance Abuse Services, (often called the Marchman Act).

Presented By: Logan Bell, MS, LMHC, QS

Logan Bell is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, National Certified 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.

Earns 8 Laws & Rules CEUs | CE Broker Tracking #: 20-1303725

11:00 AM-12:00 PM | University Faculty Meet & Greet

Join Dr. Kathie Erwin for an engaging online networking event.
This is a great opportunity to connect, collaborate, and mingle with fellow professionals and faculty members.

This is not a CEU event.