Fall Catalog Oct-Dec 25

w w w. w o m e n s c o n s o r t i u m . o r g

TABLE OF CONTENTS Training Series Key:

October

Clinical Skills

Cultural Competence

Trauma Treatment

Ethics

Integrative Health

Leadership Development

10/2

Rome Wasn’t Built in A Day: A Trauma-Informed Approach to Ethics and Expectations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 10/8 Bridging the Gap: Therapeutic Strategies for Supporting Reentry and Reintegration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 10/9 Advanced Internal Family Systems (IFS). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 10/15 Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care Seminar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 10/17 Child and Family Therapy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 10/22 Creating Trauma-Informed Spaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 10/24 Fundamentals of Sound Healing for Professionals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

November 11/5 The Roots of Racial Inequities in Breastfeeding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 11/12 Navigating Perinatal Mood Disorders and Transitions in Parents with Twins/Multiples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 11/14 Yoga and Meditation Strategies for Professional Burnout and Stress Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 11/17 From Grief to Growth: Perinatal Loss and Bereavement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 11/19 Advanced Complex Trauma and the Nervous System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 11/21 Motivational Interviewing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

December 12/4

From Talk to Transformation: Using Holistic & Transpersonal Approaches in Clinical Work. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 12/9 Eating Disorders: Assessment, Diagnosis, and Treatment Through a Trauma-Informed Lens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 12/10 Building Your Brand: Digital Marketing for Client Engagement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 12/12 Breath, Body, and Brain: The Science of Mindfulness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Expert Trainers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Registration Policies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Accommodations/Directions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Registration Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 On-Demand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 About the Consortium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

The Connecticut Women’s Consortium

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T h e C o n n e c t i c u t Wo m e n ’s C o n s o r t i u m

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Rome Wasn’t Built in a Day: A Trauma-Informed Approach to Ethics and Expectations Kathryn Bingner, MS, LCPC Expectations shape every clinical interaction—often in ways we don’t even realize. This engaging, trauma-informed training explores how both client and clinician expectations impact treatment outcomes, therapeutic relationships, and professional well-being. Learn the neurobiology behind expectations, uncover how they influence ethical decision-making, and gain practical tools to manage them with clarity, compassion, and confidence.

Date

Time

CECs

Series

Price

October 2, 2025

9am - 12pm

3 Credits

Ethics

$75

Bridging the Gap: Therapeutic Strategies for Supporting Reentry and Reintegration Jozlyn Hall, PhD, PsyD This comprehensive workshop is designed to equip therapists, counselors, and mental health professionals with the skills, knowledge, and trauma-informed approaches necessary to support individuals transitioning from incarceration back into the community. Participants will explore the psychological impact of incarceration, common barriers to successful reintegration, and evidence-based practices for building trust, promoting prosocial behavior, and addressing issues such as stigma, substance use, housing instability, and family reunification. Through a combination of lecture and interactive exercises, this training emphasizes cultural humility, reentry planning collaboration, and continuity of care. Special focus will be given to trauma-responsive engagement, navigating ambivalence, and fostering hope and accountability in justice-involved clients. By the end of this workshop, participants will be prepared to ethically and effectively support formerly incarcerated individuals in rebuilding their lives, relationships, and roles in society.

Date

Time

CECs

Series

Price

October 8, 2025

9am - 4pm

6 credits

Clinical Skills

$100

www.womensconsortium.org

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Advanced Internal Family Systems (IFS) Kim Daniels, PsyD In this highly experiential training, we will be briefly reviewing the core concepts of the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model, including parts, Self, the goals of the model, and the role of the therapist. The training will expand upon these concepts by providing experiential exercises that allow participants to: experience Self-Energy, experience their own parts, un-blend from the parts who are triggered by their clients, and help clients connect with their parts. The training will specifically highlight the role of the therapist and the importance of noticing, understanding, and un-blending from the therapist’s own parts. Experiential exercises will guide participants through these processes. Participants will leave the training with a deeper understanding of the IFS model, their own parts, and how to engage their clients in the IFS process. Please note that prior IFS training is recommended for this course.

Date

Time

CECs

Series

Price

October 9, 2025

9am - 12pm

3 Credits

Clinical Skills

$75

The Connecticut Women’s Consortium

5

Virtual Training Series

Caregiver Wellness:

From Surviving to Thriving Sessions 10/14: 10/21: 10/28: 11/4: 11/18:

Finding your Strength Preventing Injury Food as Fuel Stress, Sleep & Self-Care Drafting a Wellness Plan

4:30-5:30 PM EST One session for $20 or all five sessions for $90

With Roxie Perregaux Board-Certified Health & Wellness Coach

Reserve Your Spot Today!

Click the link above or scan the QR code

Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care Seminar Pamela K. Atwood, LPCA, MA, CDP, CADDCT Heather Costello, LCSW, LICSW This standardized curriculum is the foundation course which is required for people who seek to become credentialed by the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners as Certified Dementia Practitioners (CDPs). This dementia care content offers a clear overview of Alzheimer’s and related conditions, focusing on how they affect thinking, behavior, and daily life. It covers practical communication techniques, ways to manage challenging behaviors, strategies for coping with caregiver stress and family dynamics, and addresses the importance of spiritual support and compassionate end-of-life care.

Date

Time

CECs

Series

Price

October 15, 2025

8am - 5pm

7 credits

Clinical Skills

$200

Child and Family Therapy Deb Borzellino, LMFT, AAMFT This training is designed to give participants the opportunity to gain experience with the four attachment styles: secure, anxious, avoidant, and disorganized, as well as common child mental health issues such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, and trauma. This training will also include an overview of how systemic family therapy can interrupt dysfunctional parent/ child relationships, address both the parent and child’s needs, and enhance parenting skills including breaking cycles of conflict.

Date

Time

CECs

Series

Price

October 17, 2025

9am - 4pm

6 credits

Clinical Skills

$100

The Connecticut Women’s Consortium

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Creating Trauma-Informed Spaces Alexandra Caruso, MS Alicia Feller, LCSW As we realize just how widespread trauma really is and the impact it has on the lives of those around us, it is evident that we need a system with trauma-informed approaches. When Roger Fallot, PhD and Maxine Harris, PhD made the distinction between trauma specific services and trauma-informed care, people began to view the world in a different way.

This workshop is designed to give the basic cultural changes that occur when viewing our environment through a trauma lens. It will take the participant through a trauma-informed framework and apply it to the settings and environments where we do our work. Tools for assessing the environment will be explored and participants will learn ways to involve consumers as they work together to change the spaces where recovery happens.

Date

Time

CECs

Series

Price

October 22, 2025

9am - 12pm

3 credits

Trauma Treatment

$75

Fundamentals of Sound Healing for Professionals Kelvin Young, RSS Maria del Carmen Rodriguez This training provides professionals with a foundational understanding of sound healing and its practical applications in therapeutic settings. Participants will explore the science and ancient traditions behind sound healing, focusing on how sound frequencies can promote relaxation, reduce stress, and support emotional and physical healing. Through experiential learning and hands-on practice, professionals will gain the entry-level skills to integrate sound healing techniques into their current modalities, enhancing their ability to support clients in holistic healing and recovery.

Please note, this training is limited to 30 participants.

Date

Time

CECs

Series

Price

October 24, 2025

9am - 4pm

6 credits

Integrative Health

$100

www.womensconsortium.org

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LEADERSHIP ACADEMY Call to enroll in all 6 classes for $500 or register individually for $100 each!

Trauma-Informed Leadership: Building Resilient Teams

10/7

Jen Fournier, Esq. | 9 am - 4 pm | 6 CECs

Learn to lead with empathy and resilience in this training on trauma-informed leadership, equipping you with strategies to foster psychological safety, build trust, and address workplace stress and burnout.

The Art of Supervision: Empowering and Elevating Your Team

10/14

Jen Fournier, Esq. | 9 am - 4 pm | 6 CECs

Elevate your supervision skills with this training for human service leaders, offering practical tools to set expectations, provide impactful feedback, support employee growth, and build a collaborative team culture.

Click the title of each training to register or call us at 203-909-6888 extension 2 to register for the full package.

Cultural Humility in Action: Strengthening Teams and Client Care

10/21

Jen Fournier, Esq. | 9 am - 4 pm | 6 CECs

Lead with inclusivity and awareness by mastering cultural humility in this training, which offers actionable strategies to address biases, improve team dynamics, and foster equitable workplaces.

Effective Communication for a Unified Workplace

10/28

Jen Fournier, Esq. | 9 am - 4 pm | 6 CECs

Foster collaboration and trust with effective communication strategies in this interactive session, focusing on active listening, empathetic conversations, and practical tools to navigate challenges and strengthen team dynamics.

Leading with Heart: Emotional Intelligence for Human Service Providers

11/5

Jen Fournier, Esq. | 9 am - 4 pm | 6 CECs

Rediscover balance and resilience in leadership with this training, designed to help human service leaders manage emotional labor, set boundaries, prevent burnout, and create a personalized self-care plan.

Emotionally Intelligent Leadership: Inspiring Connection and Collaboration

11/12

Jen Fournier, Esq. | 9 am - 4 pm | 6 CECs

Master emotional intelligence to inspire trust, foster collaboration, and build stronger teams in this interactive session featuring practical strategies and hands-on activities.

T h e C o n n e c t i c u t Wo m e n ’s C o n s o r t i u m

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The Roots of Racial Inequities in Breastfeeding Tomeka Frieson, MPH Natasha Ray, MS The Roots of Racial Inequities in Breastfeeding is a racial equity training designed by the Community Alliance for Research & Engagement (CARE) in New Haven, Connecticut, in collaboration with New Haven Healthy Start. This interactive training, containing case discussions, discussion questions, and a take-home call to action, chronicles a portion of the vast history, statistics, research, and resources relevant to understanding the roots of racial inequities in breastfeeding for Black Americans.

Date

Time

CECs

Series

Price

November 5, 2025

9am - 10:30am

1.5 credits

Cultural Competence

$15

Navigating Perinatal Mood Disorders and Transitions in Parents with Twins/Multiples Carly Sundel, LCSW This program will help mental health therapists have a comprehensive understanding of perinatal mood disorders with a specific focus on the challenges faced by parents of twins/ multiples. Attendees will learn the signs, symptoms and risk factors of PMD, and additional risk factors that contribute to these conditions in the context of multiple births. Attendees will also learn practical strategies in supporting parents during the perinatal transitions and learn about social/cultural factors to help deliver individual care to families.

Date

Time

CECs

Series

Price

November 12, 2025

9am - 12pm

3 credits

Clinical Skills

$75

“It is not how much you do, but how much love you put in the doing.”

— Mother Theresa The Connecticut Women’s Consortium

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Yoga and Meditation Strategies for Professional Burnout and Stress Management Christine Saari, MA, C-IAYT Sara Merrick-Albano, C-IAYT Participants will examine the health effects of chronic stress and burnout, especially within the helping professions where vicarious trauma and fatigue are common. Through evidence-based assessment and self-management approaches, attendees will explore the physiological and emotional toll of prolonged stress and its direct link to burnout. Grounded in yoga, breathwork, yoga nidra meditation, and modern neuro-somatic practices, this workshop provides actionable tools for nervous system regulation and relief from chronic fatigue. It offers a framework for cultivating a sustainable work-life balance that applies to both yoga and non-yoga practices, without increasing the self-care burden. By the end, participants will have practical tools to navigate professional challenges, reduce the health impact of burnout, and cultivate greater present-centered awareness at work and at home. *Please note, this session is limited to 25 participants.

Date

Time

CECs

Series

Price

November 14, 2025

9am - 4pm

6 credits

Integrative Health

$100

From Grief to Growth: Perinatal Loss and Bereavement Catharine McDonald, MS, NCC, LPC, PMH-C This training provides a comprehensive, trauma-informed overview of perinatal loss and its profound impact on individuals and families. Participants will explore the full spectrum of perinatal losses—including miscarriage, stillbirth, medically necessary termination, and neonatal death—while gaining insight into the medical, emotional, cultural, and systemic factors that shape the grief experience. Through case examples and practical strategies, attendees will learn how to prevent avoidable trauma, advocate for informed and compassionate care, and construct supportive, culturally sensitive therapeutic plans for bereaved parents.

Date

Time

CECs

Series

Price

November 17, 2025

9am - 4pm

6 credits

Clinical Skills

$100

The Connecticut Women’s Consortium

12

Advanced Complex Trauma and the Nervous System Nancy Grechko, PsyD This program will go into more detail about how trauma impacts the nervous system including memory and dissociation. A more in-depth overview will be provided about the Window of Tolerance, polyvagal, and structural dissociation models. This workshop is experiential and will include nervous system regulation exercises.

Please note: This content is intended as supplemental knowledge for those already familiar with complex trauma and the nervous system.

Date

Time

CECs

Series

Price

November 19, 2025

9am - 12pm

3 credits

Trauma Treatment

$75

Motivational Interviewing Don Scherling, PsyD, LADC This workshop will provide an introduction and overview of proven Motivational Interviewing techniques, to guide you to assess and engage clients in therapeutic conversations that decrease adversarial power struggles and enhance integration of services for challenging clients with co-occurring disorders (MH/SUD) and other complex problems. You will receive a training manual to enable you to apply and practice Motivational Interviewing in a variety of helping relationships and settings.

Date

Time

CECs

Series

Price

November 21, 2025

9am - 4pm

6 credits

Clinical Skills

$100

“Never believe that a few caring people can’t change the world. For, indeed, that’s all who ever have.”

— Margaret Mead

www.womensconsortium.org

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October

9 14

From Talk to Transformation: Using Holistic & Transpersonal Approaches in Clinical Work Stefan J. Simanovich, LCSW Mental health professionals are navigating evolving client needs shaped by trauma, social media, gender, and collective societal shifts. This training invites practitioners to move beyond pathology-based models toward holistic approaches that integrate mind, body, and spirit. Through live demonstrations and group dialogue, participants will explore how to blend modalities like EMDR, somatic work, and hypnosis in client-centered care. Designed for clinicians and holistic practitioners alike, this experience fosters collaboration, personal growth, and a shared vision for the future of integrative healing.

Date

Time

CECs

Series

Price

December 4, 2025

9am - 4pm

6 credits

Clinical Skills

$100

Eating Disorders: Assessment, Diagnosis, and Treatment Through a Trauma-Informed Lens Wednesdae Reim Ifrach, REAT, ATR-BC, ATCS, LPC, NCC, CLAT, RMT This training provides an overview of eating disorders with a focus on trauma-informed assessment, diagnostic considerations, and evidence-based treatment approaches.

Participants will explore how eating disorders present across diverse identities, including race, gender, disability, and socioeconomic status, with attention to systemic oppression, chronic stress, and comorbidities like substance use and complex PTSD. The training emphasizes cultural humility, body liberation frameworks, and harm-reduction approaches to challenge weight-centric narratives. Clinical tools, case vignettes, and discussions will support assessment, diagnostic clarity, and treatment planning grounded in social work ethics and trauma-informed care.

Date

Time

CECs

Series

Price

December 9, 2025

9am - 12pm

3 credits

Clinical Skills & Trauma Treatment

$75

www.womensconsortium.org

15

Building Your Brand: Digital Marketing for Client Engagement Alana Valdez, MA This interactive training is designed for behavioral health professionals seeking to build or enhance their digital presence in a thoughtful and responsible way. Participants will explore best practices for creating and sharing digital content that upholds client confidentiality, maintains appropriate boundaries, and aligns with the NASW Code of Ethics and Technology Standards. The training will cover strategies for ethically managing personal and professional identities online, avoiding boundary confusion, and preserving the therapeutic relationship.

Attendees will also develop skills to create content that is inclusive, culturally responsive, and accessible to diverse communities. Through the application of ethical decision-making frameworks, participants will examine common challenges in digital marketing and learn practical approaches for navigating them while maintaining professionalism, accuracy, and client trust.

Date

Time

CECs

Series

Price

December 10, 2025

9am - 12pm

3 credits

Leadership Development

$75

Breath, Body, and Brain: The Science of Mindfulness Vamsi Koneru, PhD The brain is shaped by social interactions, its environment, and even its own thoughts. Many studies demonstrate that the practice of mindfulness may cause significant changes in the structure and function of the brain in areas involved in attention, emotion, stress management, and compassion. In this highly experiential workshop, we will explore this profound concept by engaging in various mindfulness practices, small group discussion and reflection, as well as moments of spontaneity and play. Participants will gain practical tools as well as a deeper, science-backed understanding of how mindfulness can have a significant impact on our wellbeing, bringing new forms of calm and awareness into our daily lives and communities.

Date

Time

CECs

Series

Price

December 12, 2025

9am - 4pm

6 credits

Clinical Skills

$100

The Connecticut Women’s Consortium

16

Expert Trainers Pamela K. Atwood, LPCA, MA, CDP, CADDCT, is a psychotherapist, gerontologist, and President of Atwood Dementia Group/Live Laugh Learn LLC, specializing in dementia care coaching and consulting. With over 30 years in aging services, she has worked across recreation, social work, care management, and nonprofits including the Alzheimer’s Association.

She co-authored Total Engagement and recently published a children’s book on Alzheimer’s, Auntie P, Music & Me. Pam holds advanced degrees in gerontology and clinical mental health counseling and is a frequent speaker at conferences. She also volunteers actively and enjoys time with her husband and their two college-age children.

Katie Bingner, MS, LCPC, is a licensed clinical counselor and communication coach with a background in performing arts and massage therapy. Since 2015, she has helped adults manage anxiety, grief, trauma, and identity development using a holistic, traumainformed approach. Her work draws on modalities like ACT, Parts Work, Somatic practices, and ART, across diverse settings including prisons and private practice. Since 2020, Katie has designed continuing education courses for mental health professionals focused on real-world, practical strategies. She also volunteers in animal rescue and serves as the Mental Health Ambassador for Responders for Pride.

Deb Borzellino, LMFT, AAMFT, Debra Borzellino, LMFT, AAMFT Approved Supervisor and AAMFT Clinical Fellow, has a career that has extended over 25 years. Deb is a trainer and presenter of Couples Therapy, Family of Origin, Family Systems Therapy, Birth Order and Vicarious Trauma.

As the owner of Pieces That Fit, LLC., Deb provides couple, family, and individual therapy. Deb provides mentorship for AAMFT approved supervisor candidates and clinical consultation/supervision to associate and licensed professionals of all disciplines. Deb focuses on the professional development of the clinician, and traditional oversight of case review, interventions, case notes, treatment planning, ethical issues, and liability. Deb was also an Adjunct Professor at SCSU MFT Department and Albertus Magnus Business Department.

The Connecticut Women’s Consortium

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Alexandra Caruso, MS, serves as the Director of Programs at The Consortium, bringing a strong foundation in operations and training.

She previously held roles as an Administrative Training Specialist and Director of Operations, contributing to the organization’s growth and efficiency. Allie holds a Master’s degree in Exercise Science from Southern Connecticut State University (2021) and a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Eastern Connecticut State University (2019). She values the opportunity to work alongside and learn from a community of strong, empowering women. Outside of her professional work, Allie enjoys staying active through tennis and weightlifting.

Heather Costello, LCSW, LICSW, has been engaged with seniors since the age of 10, when she was a volunteer at a local nursing facility. Since this impactful experience, she has been drawn to the senior population.

She earned both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Social Work from Plymouth State University and the University of Connecticut. Heather holds clinical licenses in both Connecticut and Massachusetts. She has worked in hospitals, assisted living, skilled nursing, and insurance arenas. Currently, she is in full-time private practice. Her primary clientele consists of seniors and care partners of people living with dementia. Heather has two daughters. She is an animal lover and a yoga enthusiast.

Kim Daniels, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist with a private practice in Hartford, CT. She is a Certified Level 2 trained IFS (Internal Family Systems) therapist and a Certified Intuitive Eating counselor. Dr. Daniels uses IFS to help her clients understand and appreciate all of their complexities and connect with their authentic selves. She works with clients struggling with a variety of issues and specializes in working with women experiencing food and body concerns. She loves working with therapists, especially those who are just starting out in the field.

Maria del Carmen Rodriguez is a Certified Sound Healer and Practitioner of Sound and Vibrational Therapies. She is pursuing a Doctorate in Metaphysical Science and co-founded SoulCare Love, LLC, offering sound healing sessions nationally. Her holistic approach is influenced by her extensive training and cultural heritage. Passionate about empowering women, she specializes in sound healing for home births and end-oflife care, working closely with doulas. Maria has shared her expertise on platforms like The Shift Network and at an Indigenous cacao plantation in Puerto Rico. She also leads sessions at yoga studios, universities, and health agencies, and created “Caribbean Wellness, A Sound Healing Paradise,” which combines drum medicine with yoga and meditative sound healing.

The Connecticut Women’s Consortium

18

Alicia Feller, LCSW, specializes in holistic stress management which compliments her 25+ years of experience as a clinical social worker in the behavioral health field. She enjoys working with people to help them develop a mastery over their well-being utilizing empathy, empowerment and mind-body-spirit connection as cornerstones of her approach. Alicia is a certified hypnotherapist. She holds a masters degree in Integrated Health and Healing and is a certified Holistic Stress Management Instructor. She is a certified Acudetox Specialist. Alicia lives her practice and relishes the time she spends with family and friends.

She believes that one grows the most when they step outside of their comfort zone.

Tomeka Frieson, MPH, is a dedicated public servant who is passionate about learning, exploring, and being a scholar-activist within her community. She currently serves as a Project Coordinator for the Community Alliance for Research & Engagement in New Haven, Connecticut, where she oversees a CDC Racial & Ethnic Approaches to Community Health, or REACH, grant and manages the REACH breastfeeding and produce prescription program strategies. She is also the Chair of the New Haven Breast/Chestfeeding Task Force, bringing together multiple interest-holders, community members, organizational leaders, and community partners to pursue breast/chestfeeding equity in New Haven. Tomeka received her Master of Public Health degree in Community Assessment, Program Design, Implementation, and Evaluation, and Maternal and Child Health from the Boston University School of Public Health.

Nancy Grechko, PsyD, is a licensed clinical psychologist and Founder of Grechko Training & Consulting. Besides providing direct clinical care in her community with Low Energy Neurofeedback, she offers supervision, consultation, and training for mental health professionals and organizations across disciplines. Dr. Grechko is committed to providing treatment, training, and mentorship that embody a holistic approach and are supported by research. She is best known for making even the most complex clinical concepts accessible so that practitioners can walk away with tangible tools to integrate into their practice.

www.womensconsortium.org

19

Jozlyn Hall, PhD, PsyD, is a nationally recognized Mitigation Specialist and expert in trauma-informed rehabilitation for justice-involved individuals. With decades of experience working alongside criminal defense teams and designing prosocial programming for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated populations, Dr. Hall brings a compassionate and evidence-based approach to reentry work. She is the creator of numerous independent study workbooks. As a trainer and advocate, Dr. Hall is dedicated to equipping therapists with the tools they need to effectively support individuals transitioning back into society after incarceration.

Vamsi Koneru, PhD, is a clinical psychologist in private practice at Koneru Psychotherapy, LLC. His work focuses on the intersection of trauma and mindfulness, and he specializes in providing compassionate, evidence-based psychotherapy for adolescents, adults and families. He is a certified mindfulness teacher with the Engaged Mindfulness Institute – an institute dedicated to supporting individuals in at-risk situations and communities that have been marginalized and underserved.

Additionally, he is a member of the Forensic Counseling team at Community Mental Health Affiliates, Inc., an Assistant Professor at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and a teacher with the Copper Beech Institute - a center dedicated to mindfulness practice and compassionate action. Dr. Koneru completed his MS and PhD at the University of Miami, his clinical internship at the Yale University School of Medicine and his postdoctoral fellowship at Harvard Medical School/VA Boston Healthcare System.

Catharine McDonald , MS, NCC, LPC, PMH-C, is a passionate advocate for perinatal wellness and a seasoned CT Licensed Professional Counselor, certified in Perinatal Mental Health by Postpartum Support International. She is the Owner and Clinical Director of Growing Well Counseling in Tolland, Connecticut, focusing on integrative mental health, fertility, birth trauma, and peripartum sexual health. Her commitment to perinatal mental health began in 2007 while studying Counseling at UNC Greensboro, where she supported families in antenatal units and NICUs. Catharine is currently pursuing a postgraduate certificate in Sex Therapy at The University of Michigan and is a trained family life educator, baby-led sleep specialist, and Fair Play Method Certified Facilitator. As a founding member of the CT Chapter of PSI, she has provided perinatal continuing education at state and national conferences for nearly a decade, driven by her dedication to reproductive freedoms and improved birth experiences.

www.womensconsortium.org

20

Sara Merrick-Albano, C-IAYT, is a yoga therapist who specializes in complex trauma, autoimmune conditions, and chronic pain. She’s able to adapt yoga practices for complex co-occurring medical conditions, including mental health conditions, ensuring personalized care for each client to effectively manage symptoms. Sara provides a supportive and compassionate space for her clients to engage with a transformative felt experience that aligns with their goals. She sees clients via telehealth, and in Watertown and Trumbull.

Natasha Ray, MS, is a longtime healthcare professional and family advocate who has served the New Haven community for over 25 years through her work with the New Haven Healthy Start Initiative.

In her leadership roles, she has focused on building partnerships between community members, healthcare providers, and social service organizations to improve maternal and child health outcomes.

Natasha collaborates with Yale’s National Clinicians Scholars Program on community-based research and chairs the Center for Research Engagement Steering Committee. She also lectures at Yale, co-chairs the New Haven Breast/Chestfeeding Task Force, and serves on the YNHH DEI Clinical Taskforce. With degrees in human services and organizational management, Natasha was honored with the Yale Elm-Ivy Award in 2014 for her impactful community-academic work.

Wednesdae Reim Ifrach, REAT, ATR-BC, ATCS, LPC, NCC, CLAT, RMT, is a trans/non-binary art therapist and counselor specializing in gender-affirming care, LGBTQ+ issues, trauma-informed practice, and eating disorder treatment equity. They co-own Rainbow Recovery, offering clinical counseling, supervision, and training across CT and PA, and teach mental health and social work courses at Moravian University. Wednesdae has led workshops and consultations for major organizations including MoMA, The National Alliance for Eating Disorders, and multiple state agencies. They founded the nation’s first 2SLGBTQIA+ eating disorder program and played a key role in passing Connecticut’s first Art Therapy License. Their current projects include work with the CT State DMHAS, MoMA, and national LGBTQ+ health and research initiatives.

The Connecticut Women’s Consortium

21

Christine Saari, MA, C-IAYT, is a certified yoga therapist, writer, and educator whose clinical work focuses on supporting individuals with anxiety, trauma, and the complex realities of living through and beyond cancer. A breast cancer survivor herself, Christine brings lived insight and clinical expertise to her work with clients navigating treatment, recovery, and survivorship. Her approach is deeply individualized, combining evidence-informed yoga practices with compassionate, present-centered care. As co-founder of Yoga Therapy Associates and Director of ClinicAlly Trained, Christine is committed to integrating yoga therapy into clinical care and training the next generation of yoga professionals to work safely and skillfully with mental health and wellness concerns. She leads continuing education approved through DMHAS, NASW-CT, NASW-NY, EMDRIA, and APA, as well as corporate wellness programs for healthcare providers. Christine contributes regularly to the Yoga Therapy Associates blog, translating research into practical strategies for both clients and clinicians. Learn more about her work at yogatherapyassociates.com/about and clinicallytrained.com.

Don Scherling, PsyD, LADC, is a Senior Clinical Consultant & Clinical Faculty member in the Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Services at Berkshire Medical Center in Pittsfield, MA where he is also a Health Educator, Employee Assistance Counselor, Behavioral Health Wellness Coach, and serves on the Physician-Practitioner Health Committee and the Care for Caregivers Yoga Wellness Program. Dr. Scherling is a certified trainer for the Suicide Prevention Resource Center (SPRC), The Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR Institute), and a Senior Clinical Consultant & Trainer with the Connecticut Department of Mental Health & Addiction Services, The CT Women’s Consortium and other regional statewide agencies in the Northeast.

Stefan J. Simanovich is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, researcher, and founder of Transforward Care, dedicated to expanding access to holistic, integrative healthcare and addressing disparities in the field. Since earning his MSW from Columbia in 2015, he has developed a “trans-disciplinary healing” approach that blends clinical methods with somatic and soul-centered wisdom. A certified EMDR therapist and clinical hypnotherapist, Stefan has advanced training in complex trauma, dissociation, sexual abuse, regression therapy, and transpersonal practices. His practice, founded in 2019, has supported nearly 200 clients—many on Medicaid—through deeply integrative care.

He has served as Clinical Instructor at Yale and focuses his research on inclusive, practice-based evidence, particularly for populations historically excluded from both research and integrative treatment.

Grounded in his own healing journey, Stefan creates innovative, soulhonoring approaches that recognize shared human patterns of transformation beyond diagnostic labels.

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Carly Sundel is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience supporting individuals and families through life’s most complex transitions. She has worked in diverse settings including community agencies, group private practices, and now operates her own thriving private practice. Specializing in perinatal mental health, Carly is trained as a perinatal therapist and brings a compassionate, holistic approach to her work. Carly’s therapeutic style is rooted in strength-based, cognitive behavioral (CBT), and dialectical behavioral (DBT) interventions, tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.

As a mother to identical twin girls, she brings both clinical expertise and personal experience to her work with parents of multiples. Carly is passionate about helping families navigate the emotional challenges of the perinatal period, particularly in the context of parenting twins and multiples.

Alana Valdez, MA, serves as the Project Coordinator at the Connecticut Women’s Consortium, where she draws on her rich background in art education and freelance illustration to inform her creative work. She holds an MA in Art Education from Smith College and a BFA in Illustration from UConn, and has been working as a freelance illustrator since 2015. With four years of experience teaching middle school art and developing curricula, Alana has also led adult workshops in collage and zine-making. She is deeply passionate about art’s ability to foster communication, healing, and social justice.

Kelvin Young, RSS, is an award-winning sound healer and recovery support specialist, co-founding Toivo and Soul Care Love, LLC. Sober since March 6, 2009, his recovery journey has inspired him to integrate holistic healing into behavioral health, focusing on stress management, trauma healing, and addiction recovery through sound therapy. His passion for vibrational sound therapy began during his incarceration, where he experienced its calming effects. Kelvin has presented internationally at conferences and facilitated sessions in diverse settings, including yoga festivals and treatment centers. His work has earned him several honors, including the 2021 Deron Drumm Excellence in Integrative Medicine Award and the 2023 100 Men of Color Award. Known for his compassionate nature, Kelvin creates healing spaces that empower individuals to recover and thrive.

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Registration Policies

Always check www.womensconsortium.org for the most up to date information. Some special events may have different registration policies or credits. By registering you agree to our registration and privacy policies.

If you are registering with a purchase order Send your registration form and a copy of your approved purchase order by email (training@ womensconsortium.org) or fax (203-909-6894). You must include a copy of the purchase order as proof of payment, we cannot process registrations or guarantee your space in the event without this document.

To register by mail Complete the form on page 24 and mail with a check or money order. There is a $25 bank & handling fee for all returned checks. Failure to pay this fee will prevent you from registering for future courses. Checks and purchase orders are payable to The Connecticut Women’s Consortium and can be sent to ATTN: Education & Training, 2321 Whitney Avenue, Suite 401, Hamden, CT 06518 Waitlist and sold out courses For workshops that are sold out, call to determine if a waitlist is available.

How do I get my certificate or credits?

Between 3 and 5 business days after the training (this may be longer for offsite events and conferences), you will receive an email with instructions to access the online survey and certificate. If you have trouble accessing these items, please email training@womensconsortium.org or call us at (203)909-6888 x2.

What are your attendance policies?

By accreditation standards, continuing education credits (CECs) are only given to those individuals who have completed the entire training; partial credit cannot be given. If you arrive more than 30 minutes after the start of the event or leave early for any reason you will not receive CECs. For on-site events, you must sign-in/out on the designated attendance sheets provided by staff. If you are not sure where the attendance sheets are, please ask a staff member for assistance. For virtual events, you must log into Zoom with your first and last name, matching your Consortium account. Zoom automatically tracks your attendance, including any Breakout sessions. Please note that participation in breakout sessions is an important part of the training experience and counts towards your total attendance for all virtual trainings.

If you miss more than one breakout session, Consortium staff members will provide you with a written and verbal warning. If you do not join the breakout session or contact Consortium staff as directed in the written and verbal outreach, you will be removed from the training. Please note that our attendance policies are based on state statute and requirements from our accrediting body.

EMERGENCIES & CANCELLATIONS If you cannot attend a workshop As of January 1st, 2020, The Connecticut Women’s Consortium will no longer offer credit on account for training cancellations. You must cancel your registration a minimum of 2 business days before the training start date in order to receive a refund minus a 25% administration fee. Alternatively, you may transfer into another course of your choosing until 9am on the training day.

What happens during inclement weather or if a workshop is canceled In the event of inclement weather, call (203) 909-6888 x1 the morning of your workshop. This is a recorded voice message that is updated with a weather delay or cancellation. We also post a message at www.womensconsortium.org. The Consortium reserves the right to cancel a program at any time. This may include weather, venue/staff emergencies or low attendance. In the event of a cancellation, we will contact you by email with a rescheduled date, or offer a credit or refund.

AVAILABLE CERTIFICATES & CREDITS Certificates of Attendance are available to all attendees who have signed in/out.

Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, and Psychologists National Association of Social Workers Connecticut Chapter (CECs) are accepted in the states of MA, RI, and VT. Check with your state board to see if they offer reciprocity. These credits are applicable to Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW), Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), Licensed Marriage & Family Therapists (LMFT), Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC), and Licensed Clinical Psychologists.

Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors Connecticut Certification Board CECs are applicable to Licensed Alcohol & Drug Abuse Counselors (LADC) & Certified Addiction Counselors (CAC).The Association of Addiction Professionals (NAADAC) & National International Certification and Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC) are covered under CCB-CT Credits.

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Accommodation and Access Food & Dietary Restrictions Please identify any dietary restrictions when prompted during the registration process. We can easily accommodate for vegan, nut, gluten and dairy free diets. If you have additional concerns about serious allergies, contact us in advance to ensure we can make accommodations.

Accessibility Please identify any accessibility requests when prompted during the registration process. The CWC office is wheelchair accessible; off-site event accessibility is coordinated with the venue, please call with any questions or concerns. Be sure to confirm all accessibility requests a minimum of 1 month in advance so we can ensure access.

Nursing Individuals, Children (18 & Under) For nursing accommodations, please ask staff for use of the wellness room or call ahead to learn more.

Our educational events may contain sensitive topics including abuse, mental health, and addiction. It is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to review the topics suitability. If we are concerned, we may restrict access to individuals under 18 or recommend another event.

Photos, recording & social media If you post on social media regarding an event, tag The Connecticut Women’s Consortium. We recommend that you follow a trauma-informed safety policy by asking individuals and groups before taking and sharing photos and posts. We reserve the right to photograph, record, or film classes, events and other programming. If you do not want to be included, notify a staff member. Learn more through the privacy policy on our website.

Directions

From the South, Bridgeport Area

Take 15 North Take Exit 61 Turn right off ramp, onto Whitney Avenue Half a block is a sign for Hamden Centre Turn right into driveway before this sign

From the east, New London area Take 95 South to 91 North From 91, Take Exit 10 You are now on a connector Take Exit 1 off of the ramp, Turn left onto Devine St Turn left onto Hartford Turnpike Then turn right onto Dixwell Avenue Turn left At the 3rd stoplight into the driveway (before KinderCare)

From the North, Hartford area

Take 91 South to Exit 17 On exit ramp, stay left for 15 South From 15, take Exit 62 At end of ramp, turn right on to Whitney Ave Half a block is a sign for Hamden Centre Turn right into driveway before this sign

Nearby Transportation & Hotel Information

Clarion Hotel & Suites, 2660 Whitney Avenue, Hamden, CT Tweed or Bradley Airports or NYC Airports (JFK, LaGuardia) Union Station - Metro North, Amtrak & Greyhound Bus CT Transit - we are located on the bus line: (J Bus - Whitney Avenue, Centerville Whitney & Dixwell stops) Metro Taxi - (203) 777-7777 or Uber/Lyft

Parking

All visitors must park in the FREE parking garage to the right of our building. With the exception of handicap spaces, parking in front of the building is for retail businesses.

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Registration Form PARTICIPANT INFORMATION (Applications must be complete to be processed) *Last name:

*First Name:

Middle Initial:

*Agency Name:

No Agency/Private Practice/Retired

*Agency Address: Street: Street (2): City:

State:

Zip Code:

Phone Number (Please check your preferred phone number): Work:

Cell Phone:

Home Phone:

Email Address: Please specify any special accommodations that you will need for the training. We will confirm availability ahead of the training.

Visual Hearing Other Accommodation request: Billing Information Accounting Department Phone Number: Accounting Department Email Address: Training: Date(s):

Training Title:

Course Fee: $ $ $

Registration will not be processed without payment or purchase order If you’re registering with an agency purchase order or check request form, please send this form along with a copy of this purchase order to: CT Women’s Consortium to reserve your spot.

Email: training@womensconsortium.org Fax: (203) 909-6894 If you are paying by check: Please mail this form along with your check to: CT Women’s Consortium Training Department 2321 Whitney Ave, Suite 401 Hamden, CT 06518 To pay by credit card, please submit a credit card authorization with this form. Credit card authorization forms can be found here: https://8d6d7841-c514-42a9-b59d-7361c08d7804.usrfiles.com/ugd/62fb48_e508d02e449f47cb922fda711a839251.pdf All our trainings include a CEC certificate for those who attend in full. CECs are approved by NASW/CT (National Association of Social Workers) and CCB (CT Certification Board).

By submitting this form, you are agreeing to the cancellation policy available at www.womensconsortium.org

For Consortium use only Invoice # Date payment received:

Check number:

Registration confirmed: Agency

Personal