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Behavioral Technicians

The laws and regulations governing the confidentiality of substance use disorder records were written out of great concern about the potential use of substance use disorder information against individuals, causing individuals with substance use disorders not to seek treatment.

A risk-managed approach to documentation is a best practice to protect both the client and the professional.

This course will explore 42 CFR part 2, HIPAA, and documentation of substance abuse therapy.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Harm Reduction in Substance Abuse Treatment is an approach that prioritizes the health and well-being of individuals who use substances by focusing on reducing the negative consequences associated with drug use rather than solely aiming for abstinence. This course is essential as it equips participants with a comprehensive understanding of Harm Reduction principles, strategies, ethical considerations, and controversial arguments for and against, enabling them to address substance abuse in a compassionate and pragmatic manner. Throughout the course, we will explore various Harm Reduction interventions, such as safe consumption spaces, needle exchange programs, and medication-assisted treatments, and learn how to implement these practices effectively within communities.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

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Implicit bias refers to the subconscious attitudes or stereotypes that affect our understanding, actions, and decisions, often without our conscious awareness. These biases can influence behavior and judgments in ways that may not align with our explicit beliefs or intentions.

This course will explore implicit bias, its origins, and its pervasive impact on various aspects of society, including the the counseling office and healthcare. Through a combination of self-assessment tools, interactive case studies, and practical strategies, learners will explore the subconscious biases that influence their decisions and behaviors. The course aims to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to recognize and mitigate these biases, fostering more inclusive and equitable environments in both personal and professional settings.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

This course is designed to equip substance abuse professionals with the essential knowledge and skills required to effectively diagnose and treat a wide range of substance abuse and addiction conditions. This course covers fundamental concepts of substance abuse, including the importance of mental well-being and the impact of stigma and misconceptions on individuals seeking help.

In addition to diagnosis, the course delves into various treatment modalities, such as psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, emerging therapies, and integrative approaches, providing a holistic view of substance abuse care. The course further addresses crisis intervention strategies and ethical and legal considerations, ensuring that participants are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of addiction treatment.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

This course is designed to equip mental health professionals with the essential knowledge and skills required to effectively diagnose and treat a wide range of mental health conditions. This course covers fundamental concepts of mental health, including the importance of mental well-being and the impact of stigma and misconceptions on individuals seeking help.

In addition to diagnosis, the course delves into various treatment modalities, such as psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, emerging therapies, and integrative approaches, providing a holistic view of mental health care. Special populations and considerations, including child and adolescent mental health, geriatric mental health, cultural competency, and gender and sexuality, are also thoroughly examined. The course further addresses crisis intervention strategies and ethical and legal considerations, ensuring that participants are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of mental health practice.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

This course will explore how culture and stereotypes play a role in how we see ourselves and our clients. We will explore cultural competency through cultural awareness, beliefs, knowledge, and skills. We will examine the implications for counseling theory, research, practice, and training. Participants will gain insight into how their own cultural backgrounds influence their perceptions and interactions with clients. Additionally, the course will highlight strategies to enhance cultural sensitivity and effectiveness in therapeutic settings.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

This course will explore the myriad of issues relating to setting and maintaining boundaries within the counseling relationship.

– Key Concepts Regarding Dual Relationships with Clients
– Physical Contact and Sexual Relationships with Clients
– Self Disclosure
– Sound Decision Making and Managing Boundaries Set
– Emotional and Dependency Needs
– Professional Distance
– Therapeutic Styles
– Dynamics Which Make Therapy a Potential Setting for Boundary Violations and Exploitation

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Ethical guidelines help safeguard confidentiality, foster trust, and promote the responsible handling of sensitive information. This course is designed to equip mental health professionals with a deep understanding of the ethical principles and standards that guide their practice. Participants will explore critical topics such as confidentiality, informed consent, dual relationships, and professional boundaries.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) is a condition that affects individuals who have recently stopped using addictive substances after a prolonged period of dependence. Unlike acute withdrawal symptoms, which occur immediately after cessation and last for a short duration, PAWS can persist for weeks, months, or even years.

This course will explore the common substances PAWS is associated with, the symptoms, both emotional and psychological, the phases of PAWS and the management of this syndrome.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

This course on Clinical Evaluation and Mental Status Examination is designed to equip healthcare professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to perform comprehensive mental health assessments. Participants will learn to conduct detailed clinical evaluations, including patient history taking, symptom assessment, and risk factor identification. The course will also cover the Mental Status Examination (MSE), providing techniques for systematically assessing cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

This course will explore how culture and stereotypes play a role in how we see ourselves and our clients. We will explore cultural competency through cultural awareness, beliefs, knowledge, and skills. We will examine the implications for counseling theory, research, practice, and training. Participants will gain insight into how their own cultural backgrounds influence their perceptions and interactions with clients. Additionally, the course will highlight strategies to enhance cultural sensitivity and effectiveness in therapeutic settings.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

This comprehensive course is designed to equip mental health professionals, healthcare providers, and community workers with the essential knowledge and skills needed to effectively assess, intervene, and prevent suicide. Through a structured and detailed curriculum, participants will explore the multifaceted nature of suicide, from understanding its impact to recognizing risk factors and implementing effective intervention strategies.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Pain screening is an essential practice for professionals in general medicine, mental health, and substance abuse. It aims to identify and manage pain early and comprehensively. This process involves understanding various types of pain and their physical, psychological, and behavioral impacts and utilizing appropriate assessment tools.

This course will explore various pain scales, such as the Wong-Baker FACES and Visual Analog Scale (VAS), among others, while being mindful of the potential for substance abuse. Regular reassessment, cultural sensitivity, and education for professionals and patients are critical components, ensuring tailored and effective pain management plans that improve overall patient well-being.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Drug and alcohol withdrawal symptoms can vary widely depending on the substance used, the duration of use, and the individual’s health. Common signs and symptoms include anxiety, irritability, and agitation, which often appear within hours of the last dose. Physical symptoms such as sweating, shaking, nausea, vomiting, and increased heart rate are also prevalent. Severe cases may involve hallucinations, seizures, and confusion. Psychological symptoms, including intense cravings, depression, and difficulty sleeping, are also common. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for providing appropriate care and seeking medical help when necessary, as withdrawal can be life-threatening if not managed properly.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

This comprehensive course is designed to enhance cultural competence and communication in diverse environments. Participants will explore culturally appropriate oral and written language services, engage in bilingual and bicultural training, and develop skills in personal and organizational cultural competence. The curriculum also covers diversity knowledge, assessment strategies, and the application of cross-cultural frameworks. T

This course the 2 hour requirement for the Cultural and Linguistic Domain.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

This course addresses the critical issue of compassion fatigue, focusing on the mental health challenges faced by caregivers and professionals in high-stress environments.  Participants will learn to develop effective self-care strategies to prevent burnout, understand the dynamics of secondary traumatization and victimization, and explore the concept of countertransference in therapeutic settings.

This course meets the 2 hour requirement for Vicarious Trauma/Self-Care domain.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Mentoring involves providing guidance, support, and encouragement to a less experienced individual through one-on-one interactions and shared experiences. In the context of professional development or personal growth, a mentor helps to foster a mentee’s skills and confidence, offering insights and advice that pave the way for achievement and success. Effective mentoring relationships are built on trust, mutual respect, and a genuine interest in the growth and development of the mentee.

This course is approved by the Florida Certification Board for those seeking a Certified Recovery Peer Specialist credential.  It meets the 6-hour requirement for the Mentoring Domain.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

This course offers a comprehensive exploration of the legal and ethical frameworks guiding peer support and counseling professions. Participants will delve into federal, state, and other governing laws and regulations, emphasizing ethics, values, and professional conduct, including Codes of Conduct. The program also explores the philosophy of peer support, addressing boundary issues, confidentiality, and effective documentation practices.

This course meets the 4 hour requirement for the Professional Responsibilities domain.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Motivational interviewing is a counseling approach designed to facilitate and engage intrinsic motivation within the client in order to change behavior. The course curriculum explores this approach which will enable CRPS professionals to practice and refine techniques that encourage clients to articulate personal goals and explore their motivations for recovery. This course is vital for those in peer support roles, as it strengthens their ability to support clients’ journey toward sustained recovery.

This course is approved by the Florida Certification Board for those seeking a Certified Recovery Peer Specialist credential.  It meets the 4 hour requirement for the Motivational Interviewing Domain.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

It is crucial for mental health and substance abuse professionals to be well-trained in contraband awareness and search procedures to ensure the safety of the patients and staff and the integrity of the program.  This course will enhance professionals in understanding and the management of contraband within their facilities. The program covers a comprehensive range of topics, including identifying various types of contraband, effective and ethical search techniques, and strategies for preventing contraband introduction.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

This comprehensive course is designed to equip recovery residence staff with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage and operate a facility in line with FARR certification requirements. The curriculum covers a wide range of critical topics, from crisis prevention and intervention strategies, including verbal de-escalation and aggression control, to suicide prevention and response.

This course is approved by the Florida Certification Board for those seeking a Certified Addiction Professional credential.  It meets the 20-hour requirement for the Maintaining the Physical Residence Domain.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

This course is designed for professionals working in recovery residences and similar settings, focusing on essential skills and knowledge needed for effective client management and support. Participants will explore client rights and confidentiality laws to ensure respectful and legal treatment of residents. The course includes training on behavioral health screening tools and medication management, enhancing the ability to provide informed and safe care. Attendees will learn to identify signs and symptoms of intoxication and withdrawal, crucial for timely and appropriate interventions. The curriculum also covers interviewing techniques to improve communication and assessment skills, health indicators that staff should monitor, and understanding various care levels.

This course is approved by the Florida Certification Board for those seeking a Certified Recovery Residence Administrator credential.  It meets the 10 hour requirement for the Resident Secreening and Adminstration Domain.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

This essential course is designed for professionals in the recovery residence sector, aiming to enhance their understanding and compliance with Federal and State laws, as well as other governing regulations that impact their operations. Participants will delve into the crucial areas of ethics and professional conduct to ensure they meet the highest standards of service. The curriculum covers resident and client rights, emphasizing the importance of cultural competence both personally and organizationally. It addresses complex boundary issues, the imperatives of confidentiality, and the necessity of meticulous documentation practices. A

The Florida Certification Board approves this course for those seeking a Certified Addiction Professional credential.  It meets the 20-hour requirement for the Legal, Professional, and Ethical Responsibilities Domain.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Our comprehensive course covers the intricate landscape of federal and state fair housing laws, local and state codes, and regulations, ensuring a deep understanding of NARR Quality Standards for Recovery Residences. Participants will delve into criminal background screening procedures, grasp reimbursable services and payer types, and gain basic accounting and bookkeeping proficiency. Sharpen your business acumen with essential skills in writing policies and procedures, risk management, and ethical business practices. Learn the nuances of general record keeping and documentation, and explore the critical role of naloxone use in saving lives.

This course is approved by the Florida Certification Board for those seeking a Certified Recovery Residence Administrator (CRRA) credential. It meets the 20 hour requirement for the Recovery Residence Operations and Adminstration Domain.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Professional readiness in the field of mental health and social services encompasses a multifaceted approach that integrates ethics, assessments, intervention, care coordination, cultural humility, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance, HIV awareness, and domestic violence prevention. Ethical conduct serves as the foundation of practice, ensuring the protection of clients’ rights, confidentiality, and dignity. Comprehensive assessments enable practitioners to understand clients’ needs, strengths, and challenges, guiding the development of tailored interventions and care plans. Effective intervention strategies address diverse cultural backgrounds, acknowledging the importance of cultural humility in fostering trust and rapport. Compliance with ADA regulations ensures accessibility and inclusivity for individuals with disabilities.

This course is approved by the Florida Certification Board for those seeking a Master’s Level Certified Addiction Professional credential. It meets the 20-hour requirement for the Professional Readiness Domain.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Street drugs are dangerous and plentiful. There is no way to know how strong they are or what else might be in them, but their use remains popular despite the risks.

Given the recent proliferation of new street drugs, it is imperative to remain vigilant and informed about the hazards of substance abuse.

This course will explore Krokodil, Flakka, Bath Salts, Xylazine, Slavia, Spice and others.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Ethical standards both prescribe and prohibit specific behaviors on the part of the professional. The responsibility for ethical practice and identifying ethical breaches rests with the addiction counselor.

The Florida Certification Board approves this course and meets the 4-hour requirement for the Ethical and Professional Responsibilities Domain for the initial application for the CBHT credentials. Please see the Florida Certification Board for full details on these credentials, including formal education, other content-specific training domains required, work experience, supervision, and required exams

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Documentation and patient confidentiality are paramount for behavioral health technicians in maintaining the integrity of client records and upholding ethical standards. These professionals must accurately and comprehensively document all interactions, assessments, interventions, and treatment plans in client records to ensure continuity of care and facilitate collaboration among interdisciplinary teams. Additionally, behavioral health techs must adhere to strict confidentiality protocols to safeguard sensitive patient information and maintain trust and privacy. This includes obtaining informed consent for disclosure of information, securely storing and transmitting client records, and only sharing information on a need-to-know basis within legal and ethical boundaries. Upholding these standards not only protects the rights and dignity of clients but also ensures compliance with regulatory requirements and promotes the integrity and professionalism of the behavioral health field.

The Florida Certification Board approves this course and meets the 4-hour requirement for the Documentation and Patient Confidentiality Domain for the initial application for the CBHT credentials. Please see the Florida Certification Board for full details on these credentials, including formal education, other content-specific training domains required, work experience, supervision, and required exams.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Maintaining both client and personal safety is a fundamental responsibility for behavioral health technicians. These professionals must adhere to rigorous protocols and guidelines to ensure a secure environment for clients while also safeguarding themselves from potential risks. Implementing thorough risk assessments, de-escalation techniques, and crisis intervention strategies are essential tools for managing challenging situations effectively. Additionally, practicing active listening, empathy, and clear communication can help establish trust and rapport with clients, contributing to a safer therapeutic environment. Prioritizing ongoing training and self-care is also crucial for behavioral health techs to mitigate burnout and maintain their own well-being, thereby enhancing their ability to provide high-quality care while upholding safety standards.

This course is approved by the Florida Certification Board for those seeking a Certified Behavioral Technician credential. It meets the 4 hour requirement for the Maintaining Client and Personal Safety Domain.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Clinical competence is paramount for behavioral health technicians as they play a crucial role in supporting individuals struggling with mental health and substance abuse issues. Possessing a solid foundation of clinical skills enables these professionals to effectively implement treatment plans, provide appropriate interventions, and ensure the safety and well-being of clients. With competence comes the ability to accurately assess client needs, recognize signs of distress, and respond with empathy and professionalism. Additionally, clinical competence fosters trust and confidence among clients and interdisciplinary teams, ultimately enhancing the quality of care and promoting positive outcomes in behavioral health settings.

The Florida Certification Board approves this course and meets the 8-hour requirement for the Clinical Competence Domain for the initial application for CBHT credentials. Please see the Florida Certification Board for full details on these credentials, including formal education, other content-specific training domains required, work experience, supervision, and required exams.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Ethical standards both prescribe and prohibit specific behaviors on the part of the professional.  The responsibility for ethical practice and identifying ethical breaches rests with the addiction counselor.

The Florida Certification Board approves this course and meets the 30-hour requirement for the Ethical and Professional Responsibilities Domain for the initial application for the CAC and CAP credentials. . Please see the Florida Certification Board for full details on these credentials, including formal education, other content-specific training domains required, work experience, supervision, and required exams.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Addiction has long been recognized as a chronic disease. However, most addiction treatment has used acute care interventions rather than a disease management approach. For many people seeking recovery, this has created seemingly endless acute treatment episodes. Recognizing this, the substance abuse treatment field is undergoing a shift from an acute care model of treatment to a chronic care approach, known as recovery-oriented systems of care (ROSC).

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

This course explores animal-assisted psychotherapy (AAP) theory and practice, focusing primarily on therapy dogs due to their prevalent role in volunteer and professional settings. The historical, theoretical, and practical dimensions of AAP are described so learners gain a foundational understanding of attachment theory, biophilia theory, and human-animal relational theory as they pertain to AAP. The course critically examines the efficacy of AAP through research, outlines challenges, and presents clinical applications across various psychological approaches. It also covers the selection and characteristics of successful therapy dogs, therapy dog registration, and the importance of pursuing advanced training for practitioners interested in integrating AAP into their practice.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Healthcare providers use laboratory test results to diagnose disease, determine prognosis, and monitor a patient’s treatment or health status. Current practice shows an increased trend for medical decisions based on simple tests performed at the point of care.

This course will explore the key aspects of CLIA-testing, the oversight, safety, confidentiality, and testing environment.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Navigating the requirements of reporting suspected abuse and maltreatment is an important responsibility for everyone, particularly mandated reporters.  This presentation will explore the requirements for reporting child abuse in Texas. We will look at which professionals are required to report.  We will explore the timeline for reporting and the procedures that must take place.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

When someone is scammed or “catfished,” they are often embarrassed and feel vulnerable and may not reach out to others for support when needed. This course will explore the psychology behind those most vulnerable, those who prey on others, and working with clients who were taken advantage of.

Anyone can be a victim of being scammed regardless of age, education, or socioeconomic position

 

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Whistleblowing is critical for promoting transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct in organizations and government entities. This course explores the legal protections and process for whistleblowing in Texas.

This information is provided for educational purposes only, and it is not intended as legal advice.

This course is for staff development and does not offer continuing education credits.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

This course identifies strategies for mental health providers to support LGBTQIA+ clients in therapy. It defines the LGBTQIA+ acronym and describes common LGBTQIA+ terminology. Issues impacting the well-being of sexually minoritized clients are detailed, including discrimination and stigma, mental health disparities, and unique stressors such as internalized homophobia. Supportive clinical practices with LGBTQIA+ are illustrated, such as creating an affirming therapeutic environment and building a therapeutic alliance. Strategies for navigating supportive family conversations are detailed.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Understanding the significance of relapse prevention, identifying common risk factors, and implementing effective strategies are essential steps in helping a client achieve long-term recovery.

This course will explore what addiction and relapse are, the stages of each, how to develop a relapse prevention plan and how to identify triggers.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

The importance of cybersecurity in the modern world cannot be understated. Confidentiality of records has always been critical to the population we serve.

This course will explore the necessity of digital security in mental health and substance abuse services and how you can support safer systems.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Fall prevention remains a considerable challenge across the care continuum.  Every year in the United States, hundreds of thousands of patients fall in hospitals and patient care settings, with 30-50 percent resulting in injury.   This course will explore those most vulnerable to falls and how we can work to prevent injuries.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Social media can be a great thing. It helps you keep in contact with friends and family across the globe, you can find out about events going on in your area, and you are frequently “in the know” when things happen in your workplace or with a colleague. Occasionally, this real-time, sometimes unfiltered information has led to social media mistakes that lead to hasty firings and individuals who instantly regret their tweets and posts.

This course will explore the effective use of social media, including the pitfalls of using social media, online image, confidentiality, and workplace expectations.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

This course embarks on a thorough exploration of informed consent within the realms of mental health and substance abuse treatment. It delves deeply into the intricacies of this procedure, considering the ethical foundations, legal requirements, obstacles, and practical consequences that influence the practice of informed consent. By incorporating historical perspectives, ethical frameworks, and practical case studies, this training aims to shed light on the multifaceted aspect of informed consent in mental health and substance abuse treatment. This approach fosters a nuanced comprehension of its essential role in maintaining ethical standards and enhancing patient care.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Healthcare professionals appreciate the possibility and diversity of ethical issues, but it’s easy to think they’ll never happen to you.

Despite their potentially serious consequences, ethical issues are common, and without preparation and reflection, many might be violated unwittingly and with good intentions.

In this course, you’ll learn how to identify and approach various frequently encountered counseling ethical issues and how a counseling ethics code can be your moral compass.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Ethical practices help maintain trust between clients and social workers, fostering a safe and supportive environment. They also provide a framework for addressing complex and sensitive issues, reducing the risk of harm and legal repercussions. By adhering to ethical standards, social workers uphold the integrity of the profession, promote social justice, and contribute to the overall effectiveness and credibility of social work services.

 

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

This course will enhance the knowledge of healthcare professionals regarding seizure disorders and promote early diagnoses and effective treatments.  Clients with substance abuse issues are at an increased risk for seizures.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

The laws and regulations governing the confidentiality of substance use disorder records were written out of great concern about the potential use of substance use disorder information against individuals, causing individuals with substance use disorders not to seek treatment.

A risk-managed approach to documentation is a best practice to protect both the client and the professional.

This course will explore 42 CFR part 2, HIPAA, and documentation of substance abuse therapy.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Severe anxiety can arise after trauma or injury or under persistent stress or extreme change. This course will explore how to distinguish between everyday worry and an anxiety disorder, signs, symptoms, and risk factors.  We will also discuss treatment approaches and how you can help.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Mental health providers engage with highly confidential health information.  Litigation causes threats to confidentiality that can hinder the therapeutic process, cause potential damage to your client, depending on what you write in the record, and can threaten your practice. This course will provide mental health professionals with a better understanding of legal terms, suggestions for handling requests for confidential information, and guidance with documentation.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

More than two-thirds of U.S. states and the District of Columbia have legalized marijuana for medical treatments, and more are considering bills to do the same. The use of cannabis as medicine has not been rigorously tested due to production and governmental restrictions, resulting in limited clinical research on the safety and efficacy of using cannabis to treat diseases. Medical marijuana doesn’t always “feel” like a medical treatment or medicine.

This course will explore medical marijuana. We will look at the various ways this treatment is treated differently than other prescribed medications and why. We will also explore how the mental health and addiction fields have changed over the years with issues such as this.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders has been the industry standard for diagnosing mental health disorders since 1952.  The fifth revision of the Manual was published in May 2013.  The text revision was published in March 2022.  This course will provide an overview of the organization, changes, and transitions from the previous edition and controversies regarding the changes.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Mindfulness is the practice of purposely bringing one’s attention to the present moment without evaluating whether one’s thoughts and feelings are good or bad. It is a skill developed through meditation or other training.

This course will explore the history and origins of mindfulness, the difference between mindfulness, meditation, and flow, the benefits for the client and therapist, and how it can be used in therapy.

 

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

To develop cultural competence, healthcare professionals need to identify their beliefs and build an awareness of their culture. Cultural awareness makes healthcare providers more open to unfamiliar attitudes, practices, and behaviors. This course will explore how culture and stereotypes play a role in our we see ourselves and our clients.  We will explore how we can shift from cultural competence being about racism, genderism, and ageism, to recognizing and working through our biases and blind spots.   We will examine the implications for counseling theory, research, practice, and training.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Compassion fatigue is a condition characterized by emotional and physical exhaustion leading to a diminished ability to empathize or feel compassion for others, often described as the negative cost of caring. It is sometimes referred to as secondary traumatic stress or burnout.  It is especially relevant to mental health and substance abuse professionals.   Compassion fatigue describes the physical, emotional, and psychological impact of helping others.

This course will explore where this can occur, signs of compassion fatigue, and how to help yourself and others.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

What we put into our bodies has the greatest opportunity to affect our health, well-being, and psychotropic drug disposition. This course will explore how to understand better how what we put in our bodies affects our mental health and the medications taken. This will enable us to help our clients get the most out of their bodies, minds, and medications.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Medical errors comprise the largest issue facing this country with regard to health care. This course was designed to educate those in the health care industry and specifically the mental health field on the magnitude of medical errors, their adverse effects, and methods to analyze errors in an effort to avoid future mishaps.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

The laws and regulations governing the confidentiality of substance use disorder records were written out of great concern about the potential use of substance use disorder information against individuals, causing individuals with substance use disorders not to seek treatment.

A risk-managed approach to documentation is a best practice to protect the client and the professional.

This course will explore 42 CFR part 2, HIPAA, and documentation of substance abuse therapy.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

This course will review the statistics and prevalence of domestic violence in our society. We will define domestic violence and its various types of abuse.

The course will review the dynamics of violent relationships. Violent relationships follow a predictable cycle of violence. This course will discuss this cycle and review its patterns and screening methods through multiple case studies. The course will delve into special populations and associated risk factors. Upon completing the course, the professional will understand the specific resources available for those in need.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

This course will explore how culture and stereotypes play a role in our we see ourselves and our clients.  We will explore cultural competency through cultural awareness, beliefs, knowledge, and skills.  We will examine the implications for counseling theory, research, practice, and training.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

An assessment is a basis for understanding the client’s presentation and is the beginning of conceptualizing their functioning into a diagnosis. This continuing education course will explore mental status exams, mental health assessments, alcohol and drug assessments, and the DSM V. We will also introduce the learner to a few popular assessment tools.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) was founded in 1935 to help alcoholics abstain from the consumption of alcohol and to “stay sober” through the sharing of their experiences with others who have had similar experiences in a protected environment.

The 12 Step, the cornerstone of the program, was developed later to help govern the fellowship and to establish a consistent approach to spiritual and character-building endeavors. 

This course will explore the history and efficacy of the 12-step approach.

This course will award 1 continuing education hour.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Navigating the requirements of reporting suspected abuse and maltreatment is an important responsibility for everyone, particularly mandated reporters. This presentation will explore the requirements for reporting child abuse in California. We will look at which professionals are required to report. We will explore the timeline for reporting and the procedures that must take place.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Every day counselors, nurses, psychiatric technicians, and others are called upon to intervene in crisis situations that may become dangerous if not handled properly.

This course will explore the prevention of aggressive behavior and crisis intervention techniques, which can include verbal de-escalation and physical interventions. We will identify the definition of aggression, warning signs of aggressive behavior, strategies to diffuse aggressive situations, crisis intervention techniques, and staff responsibilities after an event.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature constitute sexual harassment when this conduct explicitly or implicitly affects an individual’s employment, unreasonably interferes with an individual’s work performance, or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment.  This course will explore this topic, helping employees know what constitutes sexual harassment and what to do as a co-worker or victim.

This course does not offer continuing education for license renewal.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

It is estimated that 60 to 75 percent of adolescents with mental health and/or substance abuse issues have co-occurring disorders.  Commonly documented co-occurring disorders include conduct disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and substance dependence.

This course will explore the prevalence, warning signs, specific disorders, and treatment options.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

A drug test analyzes a biological sample used to determine the presence of specific substances.  Drug testing is done pre-employment, randomly by employers, after an accident on the job, during probation, by the police, in the prison system, in recovery programs, in hospitals, and by parents.

This course will explore the types of drug tests, what each screen is for, the collection procedure, and the need for consent.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Severe anxiety can arise after trauma or injury, under persistent stress, or extreme change. This course will explore distinguishing between everyday worry and an anxiety disorder, the top five anxiety disorders, signs, symptoms, and risk factors.  We will also discuss treatment approaches.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

Formerly known as dual diagnosis or dual disorder, co-occurring disorders describe the presence of both mental health and substance use disorders.  This course will explore the definition of terms used, most common substances, mental disorders that co-exist, symptoms, causes, and treatments for co-occurring disorders.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

The purpose of the course is to explore and expand on the process of addiction. The course will explore the definition of abuse and addiction, the stages of alcohol and other drug use, the progression of the disease, and treatment options. The course will define specific exercises that can be utilized with clients.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

This course will explore the requirements for reporting child and elder abuse in Florida. The course will list who mandated reporters are, when a report is warranted, and how to make the report when necessary. We will explore the timeline for reporting and the procedures that must occur.

It will award 1 continuing education hour.  Please see the board approval box or course approvals.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.

The 42 CFR Part 2 regulations serve to protect patient records created by federally assisted programs for the treatment of substance use disorders. Part 2 has been revised to further facilitate better coordination of care in response to the opioid epidemic while maintaining its confidentiality protections against unauthorized disclosure and use. This course will explore these regulations.

This course is offered online. Internet connection required.