TABLE OF CONTENTS
January
1/7 Foundations of Community-Based Brain Injury Support: Understanding ABI Through Human Needs and Grief Models
1/14 Using the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide in Practice
1/22 Uncovering the Layers: A Coaching and Organizing Approach to Hoarding and Chronic Clutter . p .5
1/23 Understanding the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community: Inclusive Practices for Equitable Support
1/26 Serving Those Who Serve: Enhancing Perspective & Creating Helping Opportunities
1/27 Polyvagal-Informed Trauma Recovery
February
2/2 A Family Constellation Workshop for Social Workers
2/10 Sacred Space: When Working with Marginalized Populations Changes Us Too
2/19 Social and Emotional Development for Children and Adolescents
2/20 Sex & Porn Addiction: Clinical Competency and Partner-Sensitive Care
2/27 Resilience Rising: Working with EMS and Firefighting Professionals
March
3/4 Supporting LGBTQ Individuals with Dementia
3/10 The Ventral Vagal Social Engagement System: Safety, Connection, and Trauma Recovery
3/13 The Impact of Language: Addressing Racial Discrimination Through Communication
3/17 Supervising Staff Using a Trauma-Informed Approach
3/20 Adapting Substance Use Disorder Treatment for Diverse Needs
3/26 Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking
Foundations of Community-Based Brain Injury Support: Understanding ABI Through Human Needs and Grief Models
Jamie Arber, MA, LPC, CBIST, CCH
This full-day introductory training provides a foundational understanding of Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) through the lens of human behavior, trauma-informed care, and systems support. By integrating Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs with the Stages of Grief, this course offers a holistic, layered view of how brain injury disrupts identity, function, and connection—and how community-based support systems can respond with purpose and compassion.
Participants will gain insight into the clinical, emotional, and systemic challenges faced by individuals with ABI, and learn practical strategies to support recovery, reintegration, and selfactualization in a real-world, community setting.
Using the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide in Practice
James Geisler, PhD, NCC, LPC
This training will introduce mental health counselors to the interpersonal theory developed by Dr. Thomas Joiner, an empirically supported theory that fills the current gap in the field of behavioral health; answering the question, “Why do people die by suicide?”. This training will provide participants with a detailed overview of the necessary pillars of this theory, the research that supports it, while also providing participants the necessary assessment and intervention skills when working with clients who endorse suicidal ideation and behaviors. Implications for theoretical stances and clinical examples will also be incorporated throughout the learning.
Uncovering the Layers:
A Coaching and Organizing Approach to Hoarding and Chronic Clutter
Patricia Diesel, CPC
While much of the clinical focus on hoarding centers on therapeutic models like CBT, this training offers a complementary lens drawn from two decades of direct work inside the homes—and hearts—of individuals struggling with chronic disorganization. It explores how coaching and professional organizing, informed by trauma-sensitive practices, can powerfully support therapy. Hoarding is presented not only as a mental health challenge but also as a behavioral coping strategy tied to trauma, loss, fear, perfectionism, and identity. Participants will gain insight into the emotional drivers behind excessive clutter and the healing power of gentle, nonjudgmental support. Real-life stories illustrate the importance of trust, timing, and readiness in the change process. The session also shows how small physical shifts, such as sorting through items using reflection-based tools, can lead to emotional breakthroughs. It concludes with lessons from P.O. Confidential: Untold Stories from a Professional Organizer, revealing the deeper emotional layers behind clutter.
22, 2026 9am - 4pm
Understanding the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community: Inclusive Practices for Equitable Support
Shaneka Abdul-Lateef, HS-BC
This 3-hour training is designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (D/HH) community, enhancing their ability to assess and meet the needs of individuals within this population. Participants will explore the unique challenges faced by D/HH individuals and gain insight into expectations according to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Emphasis will be placed on cross-cultural communication, the importance of inclusive language, and fostering a deeper awareness of the cultural identity of the Deaf community. Additionally, participants will gain practical strategies for engaging with D/HH individuals respectfully and effectively. This course will prepare participants to meet the needs of the D/HH population in a way that is both informed and inclusive.
23, 2026
- 12pm
Serving Those Who Serve:
Enhancing Perspective & Creating Helping Opportunities
Amy Otzel, MA, MS, LPC
September
As Service Members, Veterans, and their families are increasingly seeking assistance within community settings, mental health practitioners have an opportunity to fulfill the important role of providing support to their subsequent health, wellness, and healing needs. Facilitated by a U.S. Army Iraq War Veteran and licensed psychotherapist, this engaging seminar offers insights grounded in both lived experience and professional expertise detailing not only vastly distinct cultural factors as well as multifaceted treatment considerations, but also harnesses the power of our warriors’ valiant voices through the sharing of Grammy-nominated therapeutic songwriting tracks curated to stir your deeper connection with our heroes’ servicetime journeys. Whether you’re new to working with military-connected clients or looking to refine your expertise, this course is designed to enhance your skills and confidence while inspiring your call to action in helping service. You will be armed with pertinent information, insightful frameworks and conceptualizations, and a cache of resources to empower your delivery of compassionate, effective, and culturally humble care.
Polyvagal-Informed Trauma Recovery
Beth Robins-Roth, APRN, SEP
This training provides an in-depth exploration of Stephen Porges’ Polyvagal Theory, offering a neuroscientific lens for understanding how the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) responds to perceived safety, danger, and life threat. Participants will learn about the three branches of the ANS—dorsal vagal (freeze), sympathetic (fight or flight), and ventral vagal (social engagement)—and how dysregulation in these systems can contribute to the physical, emotional, mental, and behavioral symptoms often observed in trauma and PTSD. Through an experiential activity adapted from Deb Dana’s work, participants will use memory and imagination to identify and record the physical sensations, emotions, thoughts, and beliefs associated with activation of each ANS branch. This hands-on understanding fosters selfawareness, enhances clinical insight, and equips participants with practical strategies to guide trauma-informed interventions, support client regulation, and promote healing.
12pm
A Family Constellation Workshop for Social Workers
Barry Gordon, LMFT
Family Constellation is a therapeutic approach that explores unconscious family patterns and systemic entanglements that influence behavior, relationships, and emotional well-being. This workshop introduces social workers to the principles and practices of Family Constellation, offering experiential exercises and reflective dialogue to deepen their understanding of intergenerational trauma, systemic healing, and client-centered interventions. Participants will engage in live constellations, group discussions, and guided reflections to explore how family systems impact personal and professional dynamics.
Sacred Space: When Working with Marginalized Populations Changes Us Too
Sarah Gilbert, LCSW
This experiential workshop explores the profound reciprocal transformation that occurs in the practice of gender-affirming therapy. Mental health providers working with transgender and gender diverse (TGD) clients are not merely witnesses to their clients’ journeys and supporting them through transition, but are themselves changed through the process of creating and holding therapeutic space. Participants will examine both the challenges of vicarious trauma and the growth opportunities of vicarious resilience, developing concrete strategies for sustainable practice while honoring the sacred nature of this work. Through multimedia presentations, reflective exercises, case discussions, and collaborative learning, participants will gain deeper understanding of their own experiences while building practical skills for integration and resilience. This workshop uniquely balances honoring the transformative impact of gender-affirming care with developing sustainable clinical practices in the current challenging sociopolitical environment.
Social and Emotional Development for Children and Adolescents
Willona Amoakoh, LMSW
This interactive workshop is designed for educators, social workers, and youth-serving professionals who support children and adolescents in schools, community programs, and clinical settings. Participants will explore resilience from a developmental perspective and examine the risk and protective factors that shape how young people respond to adversity. The training also addresses recognizing signs of stress and trauma, creating safe environments for healing, and applying supportive strategies for children.
Through hands-on activities, attendees will practice building resilience through social connection, affirming language, and mindfulness techniques. The session concludes with applied practice—including a case study, role play, and peer reflection—ensuring participants leave with skills they can use immediately.
Each participant will also engage with the children’s book Nali’s Inner Crown, demonstrating how storytelling can foster resilience, self-expression, and connection with youth.
Sex & Porn Addiction:
Clinical Competency and Partner-Sensitive Care
Tara Beall-Gomes, NCC, LPC, SATP, CCPS
This training provides clinicians and wellness professionals with a foundational, traumainformed understanding of Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder (CSBD). Participants will learn to distinguish between compulsive and healthy sexual expression, identify root causes such as shame and attachment wounds, and apply evidence-based strategies for accountability, relapse prevention, and disclosure. The session also explores the relational impact of these behaviors—including Betrayal Trauma—and offers guidance on when couples work is appropriate. Attendees will leave equipped with practical tools to support both individual and relational healing in ethical, clinically sound ways.
2026
Resilience Rising: Working with EMS and Firefighting Professionals
Kelly Lynch, LCSW
This is an introductory-level training for mental health professionals on supporting EMS professionals in therapy. Far too often, people in this line of work are reluctant to engage in necessary mental health treatement out of a concern that clinicians won’t get it. This training aims to help therapists in understanding the nuances of working in public safety and a complicated healthcare system, the compassion fatigue, burnout, and vicarious trauma that often result. This training will provide participants with insights into the specific clinical presentations of EMS professionals in therapy, as well as best practices for clinical interventions. This presentation provides clinical information pertaining to individuals employed as EMS professionals who experience unique stressors as related to their challening work enviornments, with the aim of enhancing engagement and retention in clinical services. This training aims to address the problem of reluctance amongst EMS professionals to engage in mental health treatment, out of a concern about lack of training, cultural awareness about first responders amongst the therapy community.
Supporting LGBTQ Individuals with Dementia
Donna Fedus, MA
While everyone with dementia experiences vulnerability, it can be even more complex for individuals who identify as LGBTQ, especially as care needs escalate. The number of people living with dementia and the number of people who identify as LGBTQ are both growing. Aging services professionals of all levels and roles will benefit from greater cultural competence in recognizing and anticipating issues to provide more dignified care to LGBTQ individuals living with dementia.
4, 2026 9am - 12pm
The Ventral Vagal Social Engagement System: Safety, Connection, and Trauma Recovery
Beth Robins-Roth, APRN, SEP
This training explores the Ventral Vagal Social Engagement System, the newest branch of the autonomic nervous system, often called the “face-heart connection” for its role in attachment, social bonding, empathy, emotional understanding, and perception of others’ intentions and actions. Participants will examine how this system can be disrupted by poor caregiver-infant attunement, childhood abuse, neglect, or traumatic experiences across the lifespan, and how it can be repaired with targeted knowledge and interventions. Through lecture, discussion, somatic practices, demonstrations, case examples, and Q&A, participants will gain an experiential understanding of the Social Engagement System and its implications for effective treatment of unresolved trauma and PTSD.
The Impact of Language:
Addressing Racial Discrimination Through Communication
Shaneka Abdul-Lateef, HS-BC
This course is designed to educate staff on the profound effects of racial discrimination and how language plays a critical role in shaping biases, particularly how generalized statements and “buzz words” can impact families of color. Participants will explore how language perpetuates racial stereotypes and influences decision-making in social, educational, and healthcare settings.
Through a historical context review, participants will gain an understanding of the evolution of racial discourse and its long-term effects on families of color. The course offers practical strategies to identify, address, and intervene when harmful language is used. Participants will also engage in case discussions and role-playing exercises to practice effective communication, enabling them to adopt alternative language that promotes inclusivity, cultural sensitivity, and equity.
Supervising Staff Using a Trauma-Informed Approach
Eileen Russo, MA, LADC
It is not uncommon in human services for excellent direct care staff to be promoted to a supervisory position without the skills and training needed to be successful supervisors. This introductory workshop is designed for the new supervisor and will explore supervisory styles, competencies of trauma-informed supervision, and effective responses to burnout, moral distress, compassion fatigue, and vicarious trauma.
Adapting Substance Use Disorder Treatment for Diverse Needs
Anthony Nave, LICSW, LADC, ACS and Erin O’Neil, LCSW
For clinicians with limited experience supporting clients with substance use disorders (SUD), gambling disorder, or other compulsive behaviors, treatment can often feel unfamiliar and overwhelming. This training aims to build confidence and competence by guiding clinicians through the fundamentals of assessing, summarizing, and supporting clients in the early stages of recovery. Participants will explore how SUD impacts the brain, how it can be viewed through an attachment lens, and how to identify key signs, symptoms, and risks across diverse populations. Through practical tools and case-based discussion, attendees will learn how to develop individualized treatment plans that honor clients’ unique cultural and personal needs. The session will also integrate ethical considerations aligned with social work values—emphasizing self-determination, cultural competence, and appropriate referral. Using approaches such as Motivational Interviewing, clinicians will leave equipped to engage clients collaboratively, enhance readiness for change, and connect them to meaningful recovery resources.
Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking
Welcome2Reality
This training is a comprehensive and vital resource for participants seeking to address the pervasive issue of human (DMS) trafficking. The course serves to educate attendees on the nuanced laws designed to combat human trafficking, with a specific focus on the exploitation of minors. Through a meticulous exploration of language and terminology, participants gain the tools necessary to comprehend the intricacies of human trafficking of minors. The training goes beyond theoretical knowledge by familiarizing participants with the risk factors and vulnerabilities that make youth susceptible to exploitation. Additionally, the course defines Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children/Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking (CSEC/DMST) and delves into the profound impact of human trafficking on victims, providing insights on effective ways to work with them. Importantly, the training aims to enhance the ability to identify and assist children at risk and victims of trafficking, contributing to a more proactive and informed approach in combating this grave issue. Participants walk away with a profound understanding, practical skills, and a heightened commitment to addressing and preventing human trafficking.
Expert Trainers
Shaneka Abdul-Lateef, MS, HS-BCP, holds a B.S. in Criminology from Central Connecticut State University and an M.S. in Human Services with a Clinical Specialty from Post University. A Board-Certified Human Services Practitioner since 2010, she brings over 21 years of experience as a Social Worker, Supervisor, and Child Welfare Trainer. Shaneka is the CEO and Chief Consultant of The HerAbdul Equity Exchange, where she delivers trauma-informed, justice-centered trainings that help professionals disrupt bias and engage marginalized communities with equity and accountability. Her work focuses on trauma-informed care, cultural humility, and racial equity, offering practical strategies for inclusive service delivery. A dynamic presenter, she has shared her expertise at numerous professional conferences, inspiring systemic change through education and advocacy.
Willona Amoakoh is a Ghanaian American LMSW, children’s author, social worker, and performing artist with over 25 years dedicated to youth wellness and positive development. Holding degrees in Education and Social Work, she serves as a grantmaker, adjunct professor at University of Connecticut School of Social Work, and supports programs that inspire compassion, resilience, and holistic healing. Willona blends her passions for the arts and advocacy through her company Alasa Media, LLC. Alasa Media delivers engaging books on social and emotional wellness that cultivates joy and uplifts underrepresented voices.
Jamie Arber, MA, LPC, CBIST, CCH, is the Executive Director of The Supported Living Group (SLG) and a recognized leader in brain injury rehabilitation. Since joining SLG in 2017 and becoming Executive Director in 2021, he has transformed community-based care for Acquired and Traumatic Brain Injury survivors across Connecticut. Under his leadership, SLG became the state’s top-ranked provider within three years, delivering over 15,000 hours of weekly person-centered support. Jamie has pioneered innovative vocational and arts-based rehabilitation programs and built strong partnerships with hospitals, state agencies, and advocacy organizations. A Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Brain Injury Specialist, he integrates evidence-based approaches such as EMDR and hypnosis to enhance trauma recovery. His visionary leadership continues to redefine excellence in brain injury rehabilitation and inspire systemic change statewide.
Tara Beall-Gomes is a Licensed Professional Counselor, National Certified Counselor, Certified Clinical Partner Specialist, and Certified Sexual Addictions Treatment Professional with over two decades of experience. She is the founder of Main Street Counseling, supporting individuals, couples, and families, and Grit and Grace Recovery, a trauma-informed practice specializing in Betrayal Trauma, Sex and Porn Addiction, and relational recovery. Tara is one of the region’s only clinicians offering partner support groups for those impacted by CSAMrelated betrayal (Child Sexual Abuse Material), creating a vital space for healing and education. Her work integrates evidence-based modalities such as CBT, DBT, Multidimensional Partner Trauma Model, and Modern Attachment Theory. A Certified Restorative Justice Circle Keeper, she promotes healing-centered dialogue and community justice. With a background in school counseling, Tara brings a holistic, family-systems lens to her work and has a special interest in the impact of Betrayal Trauma during pregnancy and postpartum.
Patricia Diesel is a renowned organizing expert, author, Certified Professional Coach, and Certified Specialist in Hoarding and Chronic Disorganization. For over two decades, she has helped individuals address the physical and emotional layers of clutter, empowering them to live with balance and renewed purpose. As the founder of Keep It Simple Now, LLC, Patricia integrates practical systems with a compassionate understanding of the psychological factors behind disorganization. Her expertise has been featured on Good Morning America, The Learning Channel, PBS, and other major outlets. The author of several books, including P.O. Confidential: Untold Stories from a Professional Organizer, she brings a global perspective to her work as a dual citizen of the U.S. and Ireland. A sought-after speaker, Patricia continues to inspire lasting change through her focus on clarity, simplicity, and emotional well-being.
Donna Fedus is a gerontologist educator, professor, program strategist, instructional designer, researcher, and entrepreneur Her life’s work - pursued enthusiastically for more than 30 years so far - is to offer alternatives to the tragedy narrative that often surround aging, caregiving, and dementia. Donna is gerontologist and founder of Borrow My Glasses, which provides scalable learning solutions, training, and evaluation services for organizations and individuals looking to embrace the many opportunities brought by longevity. Learn more at borrowmyglasses.com.
James Geisler, PhD, NCC, LPC, is the Executive Director of Wellness Services in higher education and a leading voice in student mental health. He developed and teaches The Interpersonal Theory of Suicide, a Master’s-level course in clinical mental health counseling in Fairfield County, offering students a deep understanding of the theory and its application in clinical practice and intervention.
Dr. Geisler’s commitment to suicide prevention is central to his work on college campuses and in broader community settings. He is the author of Thrive Year One: The Essential Mental Health Workbook for FirstYear College Students, a practical resource designed to help students navigate the emotional challenges of the college transition.
Widely recognized for his innovative approach, Dr. Geisler shapes forward-thinking initiatives and policies that prioritize and elevate mental health and well-being in higher education.
Sarah Gilbert, LCSW is a seasoned therapist and trainer specializing in gender-affirming care for trans clients and their loved ones. She founded Transitions Therapy LLC in 2014. In both therapy and her trainings, Sarah creates spaces where people can learn and unlearn without shame. She blends clinical expertise with compassion, humor, and a healthy dose of irreverence. Known for making complex conversations human and engaging, Sarah equips clinicians and communities to move beyond “do no harm” toward truly affirming, empowering care. As a trainer, consultant, and speaker, she challenges outdated practices while inviting participants to relearn with confidence and curiosity.
Barry Gordon is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), Gestalt Therapist, Hypnotherapist, and Family Constellations
Facilitator with over two decades of experience supporting individuals, couples, and families. His integrative and intuitive approach draws from a range of therapeutic modalities tailored to each client’s unique needs. Barry specializes in Family Constellations, a powerful experiential method that uncovers hidden family dynamics and fosters lasting healing. He is also dedicated to training the next generation of Family Constellations facilitators, sharing the wisdom that has deeply influenced his own journey. Through his work, Barry honors the legacy of the Zulu people, Bert Hellinger, and his teacher Ed Lynch, emphasizing that true healing happens in community.
Kelly Lynch is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, retired EMT, Personal Trainer, and Nutrition Coach She became an EMT in 2003, and worked in commercial EMS as an EMT and FTO for 10 years prior to becoming a therapist. Kelly has been a therapist for over 15 years, and specializes in Acute Stress and Post Traumatic Stress Injuries in EMS professionals. She opened Turning Point Wellness in 2014, with the goal of normalizing mental wellness in public safety, to change the stigma of asking for help, and increase access and availability of appropriate support services to all professional and volunteer first responders. Kelly also owns The GRIIT Project, where she speaks nationally and internationally on topics related to mindset and problem-solving. She specializes in teaching people how to practice authenticity and find personal and professional alignment through the power of self-leadership. Her first book, F*ck the Rules, was published in February 2024 and quickly became an Amazon Bestseller.
AnthonyNAVE is a dual Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselor who holds master’s degrees in educational psychology and clinical social work in multiples states. He is advanced certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), is an EMDRIA approved EMDR Consultant, an NBCC Approved Clinical Supervisor, and holds an international certificate as an Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (ICAADC). Anthony has over 15 years of experience practicing and directing educational and clinical services throughout the full continuum of care with clients ranging from adolescent ages to older adulthood struggling with co-occurring disorders. He is an experienced presenter nationally and regionally presenting on topics such as treatment for co-occurring disorders, grief and trauma recovery, and adolescent treatment and development. Currently he is the co-owner of The Healing Space: Therapy and Consultation Services, LLC, and is a co-founder and Chief Clinical Officer of Waypoint Cooperative, LLC.
Erin O’Neil is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who holds a master’s degree in Social Work with a focus on Community Organizing, Planning and Development. She is advanced certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and is an EMDRIA-Approved Consultant . Erin is experienced in addiction, trauma, grief, and prenatal and perinatal dynamics. Erin is currently in private practice and recently co-founded Waypoint Cooperative, an incubator and community space for professionals in the mental health field looking for additional support, professional development, and a space for practice.
Amy B Otzel, LPC (GA & CT), LMHC (FL), is a retired U.S. Army Behavioral Health Sergeant and Iraq War Veteran turned psychotherapist, educator, and advocate. Her personal journey through trauma informs her work in promoting wellness and resilience within the military-connected community. Amy lectures at Yale University’s Dept. of Psychiatry, teaches at Colorado Chinese Medicine University, and serves as a professional development specialist and stress management instructor. She is also an Advanced Level-3 Breath~Body~Mind teacher and active peer support representative. Amy’s achievements include co-chairing a Veterans Affairs Mental Health Advisory Board chapter and publishing her own songs. She resides in southeastern coastal Georgia with her husband and children.
Beth Robins Roth, APRN, SEP, is a bilingual Family Nurse Practitioner and Somatic Experiencing® Practitioner. In 1993, she founded the MindfulnessBased Stress Reduction Program at the Community Health Center of Meriden, teaching meditation in English and Spanish for 21 years. In 2016, she launched Hummingbird Trauma Resolution, specializing in mindbody approaches to trauma, PTSD, chronic pain, and stress. Beth offers individual trauma healing, group programs in Somatic Experiencing®, and professional training for medical and mental health providers, substance abuse counselors, and non-profit staff in Connecticut and New York.
EILEEN M RUSSO, MA, is a licensed addiction counselor, a certified clinical supervisor, and an advanced certified alcohol and drug counselor (substance use and co-occurring disorders) who has worked in the addiction and mental health field for the past 39 years. Ms. Russo also holds credentials as a relapse prevention specialist and a compassion fatigue educator. She has recently retired as Program Coordinator and Professor Emeritus for the Drug and Alcohol Recovery Counselor program with Gateway Community College in New Haven, CT. For the past 18 years, she has served as a trainer/consultant with The CT Women’s Consortium, the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, private agencies, and several states beyond Connecticut.
Marcus Stallworth, LMSW, is the Director of Learning and Organizational Development at Welcome 2 Reality, LLC. Marcus operates with an assertive hands-on approach. Spending close to 20 years providing Child Protective Services, he is recognized by the State of Connecticut as an expert witness, providing testimony in numerous court proceedings. He has spearheaded several initiatives to promote fathers’ engagement, prevent abuse and neglect, and address the dangers of social media. He has direct experience educating and supporting victims of human trafficking and sexual exploitation, training staff on sexual orientation and gender identity, and advocating for those in foster care. Marcus serves on the Board of Directors of the National Foster Parent Association and plays a leadership role in Connecticut’s Fatherhood Engagement Leadership Team (FELT). He is also a member of Media Literacy Now’s National Advisory Council, which provides educators with advocacy and resources on media literacy education in schools.
Qur-an Webb, MSW, is the Director of Operations at Welcome 2 Reality, LLC. Qur-an has been in the social work field for over 20 years. Qur-an is the Connecticut Chapter Lead for Media Literacy Now which focuses on education around media literacy. In this role, Qur-an was instrumental in getting Public Act No. 15-94 and Public Act No. 17-67 passed in Connecticut which now mandates school systems to educate the safe use of social media and computer programming instruction and create an advisory council related to digital citizenship, internet safety, and media literacy. He also works as an independent contractor and is an Assistant Professor at Western Connecticut State University. Qur-an serves as Vice President of the Association of Black Sports Officials. In this role, Qur-an advocates for the rights of and opportunities for Black sports officials and pushes for equality among officials. He also provides training and professional development opportunities domestically and internationally for the company.
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 CWC 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.
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 CWC 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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Training:
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 # Check number:
Date payment received: Agency Personal Registration confirmed:
