Montgomery County Health and Human Services Behavioral Health Training Institute

Supervision to Support Staff Wellbeing: Addressing Trauma Exposure Response

December 18, 2023 | 9:00 am to 12:30 pm

Kalma White, MEd, CPRP and E. Bernard Alexander, MAC

Via Zoom (Social Work, CPRP and Continuing Education Credits pending)

Trauma exposure response can reduce staff’s capacity to be effective, caring, engaging, hopeful, and enthusiastic in the delivery of services. It is essential for staff, with support and information from their supervisors, to understand and attend to the possible impact of serving individuals and families with histories of childhood abuse and adversity. This training will present strategies and tools that supervisors can use in their program settings to address and help balance the impact of vicarious traumatization and secondary trauma. By the end of this training participants will be able to define trauma exposure response, vicarious traumatization, and secondary trauma; describe the impact on practitioners and their work; and discuss supervisory strategies for preventing and addressing the impact of trauma exposure response.

This training is designed for those in supervisory positions. A follow-up training on this topic will be scheduled for all in the near future.

Register Here: https://montco.quickbase.com/db/bkqw8eycz

Montgomery County Health and Human Services Behavioral Health Training Institute

Understanding and Navigating Multi-Systems in Support of Children and Families

December 13, 2023 | 9:30 am to 12:00 pm

Presenters: Tricia Malott, MEd & Panelists

via Zoom (SW & Continuing Education Credits) 2 hours

The children's system is quite complex. Having to navigate multiple systems can be a challenge. Learn ways to be an "effective" team member and hear from a panel of children's system and family representatives about how the various systems can be most helpful. Systems representatives include Office of Children and Youth, Juvenile Probation, Educational System, Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Drug and Alcohol, as well as family and young person representation.

Register Here: https://montco.quickbase.com/db/bkqw8eycz

Montgomery County Health and Human Services Behavioral Health Training Institute

An Overview of Adult Mental Health Services: Everything You Always Wanted to Know & More

December 11, 2023 | 9 am to 12:00 pm

Anna Trout, MSW, CPRP and panel

via Zoom (SW, CPRP and Continuing Education credits) - 3 hours

Working in mental health is agreeing to take on an entire complex system of information, and that is a huge challenge! This training will be an overview (or perhaps even a refresher) to working as a mental health service provider here in Montgomery County. Come learn about the local public mental health system, our provider network, community resources, funding streams, eligibility criteria, available services, county-wide initiatives, and more.

Register Here: https://montco.quickbase.com/db/bkqw8eycz

Montgomery County Health and Human Services Behavioral Health Training Institute

Understanding Voices through a Human Perspective (Adult and Young Adult)

November 29 and 30, 2023 | 9:30 am to 12:00 pm

Presenters: Tracey Riper-Thomas, BS,CPS, Annie Stafford, CPS, Conrad Lawson, CPS & Peggy Maccolini, MS, CPRP

via Zoom (SW, CPRP and Continuing Education Credits) - 5 hours

We all seek meaning — how to make sense of our experience. People who hear voices are no different. This training is for supporters (therapists, recovery coaches, peer specialists, residential staff, system partners, people with lived experience or family members) who are interested in learning more about the hearing voices experience, both adults and young adults. The training incorporates information about the Hearing Voices Network approach and its research, as well as the personal stories of the presenters.

Register Here: https://montco.quickbase.com/db/bkqw8eycz

Thursday, November 16, 2023

10:00am-11:30pm

A thorough introduction to the types of programs Your Way Home partners operate that are all part of the homeless crisis response system. Topics include program and database usage expectations based on program type, as well as general expectations for all Your Way Home partner staff. Required for all new employees and any staff interested in receiving updated training.  

Register here: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJwscOCopzwiEtS6et6vaDaLozdu0wf29TR3

Montgomery County Health and Human Services Behavioral Health Training Institute

Building Skills for Self-Care and Reflective Practice (Part Four of Trauma Series)

November 14 and 15, 2023 | 9:00 am to 12:00 pm

Presenter: Laura Hinds, LCSW

via Zoom (SW, CPRP and Continuing Education credits) 6 hours

When we work with desperate populations with limited resources it is not uncommon for social service providers to put their blinders on and power through. Join us for a discussion on how reflecting on the work we do both empowers us to be more effective in the work, as well as safeguards our own mental health and functioning. By exploring the tenets of reflective practice, self-care, and self-management, participants will be encouraged to find a holistic and sustainable way to navigate through the hard work of serving vulnerable people.

Register Here: https://montco.quickbase.com/db/bkqw8eycz

Montgomery County Health and Human Services Behavioral Health Training Institute

Ethics and Boundaries: Whose Needs Are Being Served?

November 8 and 9, 2023 | 10:00 am to 12:00 pm

Presenter: Mary Gregorio, MA

via Zoom (SW, CPRP and Continuing Education credits) 4 hours

How do you know if you’re doing the right thing? It’s important to understand the code of ethics of your profession, which can guide your practice and help you to make the best choice in difficult and complex situations. This course will consider several types of professional standards of ethics and boundaries in the context of trauma-informed support for individuals who receive our services.

Register Here: https://montco.quickbase.com/db/bkqw8eycz

Montgomery County Health and Human Services Behavioral Health Training Institute

Ethical Dialogue:  Navigating the Unique Peer Relationship – Important Discussion for Supervisors

November 1 and 1, 2023 | 9:00am-12:00pm

Presenter: Don Altemus, MS

Via Zoom (Social Work, CPRP and Continuing Education credits pending)

Certified Peer Specialists and Certified Recovery Specialist begin their careers after completing the approved training and demonstrating their entry level knowledge by successfully passing the Pennsylvania Certification Board Exam. They are experts in their own journey of healing and recovery and simultaneously are beginning learners of the skills needed to navigate the complexities of professional relationships and ethical decision making. This workshop will highlight the ethics training Peer and Recovery Specialists receive, review the Peer Ethical code, and highlight navigation of challenges that they face that are different than non-peer staff. The goal of this workshop is to provide Peer and Recovery Specialist Supervisors, and other supervisors with interest in this topic, with tools to create supervision that promotes transparency from your peer staff and aids in professional development of staff which will foster meaningful relationships, retention and growth.

Register here: https://montco.quickbase.com/db/bkqw8eycz

Montgomery County Health and Human Services Behavioral Health Training Institute

Meetings That Matter: How to Assure the Effectiveness of Interagency Team Meetings - (children and families)

October 30, 2023 | 10:00 am to 12:00 pm

Presenters: Clare Higgins, BS; Peggy Maccolini, MS, CPRP and TBD

via Zoom (SW and Continuing Education Credits 2 hours)

For multi-system or multi-disciplinary teams, much of that work takes place in meetings. But for many of us, the word “meeting” brings up images of wasted time, feeling invisible, being “in trouble” or fighting to be heard. Using the System of Care perspective, this training will introduce a framework for full participation in a youth and family-centered team meeting. Whether in the role of facilitator or team member, provider or young person receiving services, specific skills of engagement, active listening, reflecting and refocusing can be used to forward the work of an effective team. The discussion will also include a family perspective as well as learning from a young person who has participated in her own team meetings.

Register Here: https://montco.quickbase.com/db/bkqw8eycz

Fair Housing Compliance and Beyond for Nonprofit Housing Providers
Friday, October 27, 2023
1:00pm-4:00pm
Presenters: Carolyn Steinhofer and Rachel Wentworth
Held In-Person at the Community Partner's Center in Colmar, PA

This training will review the compliance responsibilities of nonprofit and supportive housing providers and shelters under the Fair Housing Act and other applicable civil rights laws, as well as HUD program rules. Common fair housing issues experienced by program participants along with best practices for avoiding discrimination or the perception of discrimination will be  discussed along with strategies for increasing access for each of the protected classes.

Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fair-housing-compliance-and-beyond-for-nonprofit-housing-providers-tickets-719206143937

Montgomery County Health and Human Services Behavioral Health Training Institute

Motivational Interviewing—Creating and Supporting a Community of Practice (CofP)

Previous MI training is a prerequisite to this training

October 24, 2023 | 10:00 am to 12:00 pm

Ali Hall, JD—Member of Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers (MINT)

Via Zoom (Social Work, CPRP and Continuing Education credits) 2 hours

Many organizations and individuals invest a great deal of time and energy into learning different evidence-based practices, such as Motivational Interviewing (MI). Creating and supporting a community of practice are among the key steps you can take to sustain and extend your investment. What does that look like? This brief, fast-paced and engaging workshop will introduce participants to a variety of strategies and tools to generate a plan that you can tailor to suit your setting. We will explore brief evaluation tools for supporting MI practice, generate ideas for ongoing skill practice, review available resources, and help you walk away with some clear ideas for moving yourself, your agency and the County.

Register Here: https://montco.quickbase.com/db/bkqw8eycz

Montgomery County Health and Human Services Behavioral Health Training Institute

Understanding Self-Injury

October 18, 2023 | 9:30 am to 12:00 pm

Sera Davidow and Cindy Marty Hadge, Wildflower Alliance, Massachusetts

Via Zoom (Social Work, CPRP and Continuing Education Credits) 2.5 hours

Learn more about self-injury and how to understand and support people who do it. This workshop will cover a number of topics from the different types of self-injury to the many reasons people self-injure, and some strategies for offering support when self-injury starts getting in the way of someone's life.

Register Here: https://montco.quickbase.com/db/bkqw8eycz

Montgomery County Health and Human Services Behavioral Health Training Institute

Motivational Interviewing (4 DAYS—12 Hours)

October 2, 3, 4 and 25, 2023 | 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm (all four days are required for certificate)

Ali Hall, JD—Member of Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers (MINT)

Via Zoom (Social Work, CPRP and Continuing Education credits) - 12 hours

Motivational interviewing helps practitioners/workers connect with an individual's intrinsic motivation to change by exploring and resolving ambivalence. It also regards ambivalence to change as normal, expected behavior. This effective, evidence-based approach can be very helpful is assisting people to meet their goals and improve outcomes. This is a 4-day training; participants must attend all four days.

Register Here: https://montco.quickbase.com/db/bkqw8eycz

Thursday, September 28, 2023

10:00am-11:30am

A thorough introduction to the types of programs Your Way Home partners operate that are all part of the homeless crisis response system. Topics include program and database usage expectations based on program type, as well as general expectations for all Your Way Home partner staff. Required for all new employees and any staff interested in receiving updated training.  

Register here: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJ0tdOqtqjMjHd0KUodWYlRbfRxVFDg0Avpo

Montgomery County Health and Human Services Behavioral Health Training Institute

Trauma-Informed Practice, Help that HELPS! (6 hours) (Part Three of Four Part Trauma Series in 2023)

September 26 and 27, 2023 | 9:00 am to 12:00 pm

Presenter: Mary Gregorio, MA

Via Zoom (Social Work, CPRP and Continuing Education credits) - 6 hours

Are you someone who has been asking -“Trauma Informed Care” – what does it mean? Is it more than awareness? Does it translate into action? This training is designed to answer your questions and provide practical guidance about how to support people in a trauma-informed way. The training will emphasize the use of relationships to support healing and growth while also identifying tools to help build resilience and emotional regulation.

Register here: https://montco.quickbase.com/db/bkqw8eycz

Stages of Change & Building Motivation

Montgomery County Health and Human Services Behavioral Health Training Institute

September 12 and 13, 2023 | 1:30 pm to 4:00 pm

Michael Nelson, CPS & Mark Boorse, MHS

via Zoom (SW, CPRP and Continuing Education Credits) - 5 hours

"If you really wanted to change, you would.” It is a phrase that many of us have heard and said, to others and ourselves. But what if change is a process? This interactive workshop will introduce the “Stages of Change” theory developed by Prochaska and DiClemente. The phases of change, from Precontemplation to Maintenance, will be identified and discussed using “real world” examples. Participants will learn how to identify Stages of Change and to use this model as a tool in supporting people in services.

Register Here: https://montco.quickbase.com/db/bkqw8eycz

Using Fair Housing to Assist Clients in Navigating a Successful Rental Experience

August 3, 2023 | 11:00 am – 1:00 pm

The Housing Equality Center of PA will be providing a two-hour webinar training which will teach housing locators, social workers, case managers and advocates how to use state and federal fair housing laws when appropriate to assist their clients in navigating a successful rental experience. An overview of PA Landlord-Tenant Law will be provided along with an overview of Fair Housing law. Specific fair housing strategies will be presented for various landlord tenant disputes with the goal of maximizing chances for a successful rental experience and avoiding eviction.  Time for questions and answers is included. 

Pre-registration is required. To register, click here..

Wednesday, July 26, 2023

10:00am-11:30am

A thorough introduction to the types of programs Your Way Home partners operate that are all part of the homeless crisis response system. Topics include program and database usage expectations based on program type, as well as general expectations for all Your Way Home partner staff. Required for all new employees and any staff interested in receiving updated training.  

Register here: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJMlfu6pqz8iG9a2ooVkOaygIFfaYHhNC1bf

LGBTQIA2S+ Competency and Equal Access Training

Friday, July 14, 2023

1:00pm-3:00pm

This is a rescheduled training - all participants must register again using the new link.

In-Person Training

This training will cover an introduction to LGBTQIA2S+ cultural competency, and provide Your Way Home service providers with understanding of Equal Access and Inclusive Housing Requirements for LGBTQIA2S+ clients in HUD funded programming. The workshop will provide examples of the unique challenges of homelessness experienced by LGBTQIA2S+ individuals, as well as tools for providers to signal their programming and workspace as inclusive and safe spaces for LGBTQIA2S+ clients and employees.

Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/rescheduled-ywh-lgbtqia2s-competency-equal-access-training-tickets-664616374467?aff=oddtdtcreator

Fair Housing for Shelters and Non-profit Housing Agencies

July 12, 2023 | 10:00 am – 11:30 am

The Housing Equality Center of PA will be providing a one and half hour  webinar training for nonprofit housing providers on the Fair Housing Act and Title VI protections for federally funded activities, including LEP and Equal Access and Gender Identity Rules in HUD funded programs. This training covers the following topics:

• Fair Housing Act and Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964

• Discriminatory Treatment under the Fair Housing Act

• Disability Issues including Reasonable Accommodations and Modifications, Assistance Animals

• HUD Guidance on Criminal Records

• HUD Guidance on Harassment

• Limited English Proficiency Language Access Requirements Under Title VI

• HUD Program Rules: Equal Access and Gender Identity

• Practical Considerations for Providers of HUD Funded Housing and Services

• Best Practices for Compliance

Pre-registration is required.  To register, click here.

Montgomery County Health and Human Services Behavioral Health Training Institute

Trauma-Informed Approaches - Safe Spaces and Places: Designing and Delivering Services that are Trauma-Informed

Tuesday, June 20, 2023 1:00pm-2:30pm

Presenters: Lindsey Bishop Gilmore and Ariana Saunders

via Zoom (social work credits pending approval)

A key principle of trauma-informed approaches is safety. Safety includes both physical and emotional or psychological safety. But how can housing and service providers promote both physical and emotional safety? This course will explore how organizations can develop programs and services that help persons to be as “safe” as possible. Understanding that systems and programs in themselves may not feel “safe” participants will take a critical eye to their physical settings and how services are provided to understand where there is an opportunity to create brave space, promote safety and minimize re-traumatization.

Register here: https://montco.quickbase.com/db/bkqw8eycz

Using Fair Housing to Assist Clients in Navigating a Successful Rental Experience

June 15, 2023 | 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

The Housing Equality Center of PA will be providing a two-hour webinar training which will teach housing locators, social workers, case managers and advocates how to use state and federal fair housing laws when appropriate to assist their clients in navigating a successful rental experience. An overview of PA Landlord-Tenant Law will be provided along with an overview of Fair Housing law. Specific fair housing strategies will be presented for various landlord tenant disputes with the goal of maximizing chances for a successful rental experience and avoiding eviction.  Time for questions and answers is included.

Pre-registration is required. To register, click here.

Montgomery County Health and Human Services Behavioral Health Training Institute

Recruiting Landlords

June 12, 2023 1:00pm-2:30pm

Presenters: Charlesy Nance and Johnna Lowe

via Zoom (social work credits pending approval)

Landlords are essential for sustaining supportive housing in our communities. While housing developments are happening in communities, the need to find available units and housing is now! Geared toward direct service staff (case managers, housing specialists, supervisors, and other interested supporters), this training will focus on best practices in creating new partnerships and recruiting landlords.

As developments in communities take many years to create, our sector is heavily reliant on the current housing stock. Landlord partnerships are essential to the scattered site supportive housing model. Our work also has goals around housing people as fast as possible. This cannot happen waiting on new housing developments.

Register here: https://montco.quickbase.com/db/bkqw8eycz

Montgomery County Health and Human Services Behavioral Health Training Institute

Promoting Housing Stability Through Active Engagement

Monday June 12 | 10:30am-12:00pm

Presenters: Bernie Miles and Terri Power

via Zoom (social work credits pending approval)

Keeping tenants stable and thriving in their housing is an important aspect of support. We'll discuss techniques on how to successfully engage with tenants to navigate them through the move in and housing process as well as interventions and strategies to prevent eviction.

Register here: https://montco.quickbase.com/db/bkqw8eycz

Thursday, June 8, 2023

1:00pm-3:00pm

Virtual Training (Mandatory for Your Way Home Providers)

Provided by Housing First University

Housing First University Training is accredited through the Association of Social Work Boards, and can provide CEU for Social Workers licensed in Pennsylvania.

Eviction prevention strategies

Description

Congratulations, you got your client housed! Now, how do you keep them there? The Housing First model was initially developed to serve the individuals in our communities with some of the greatest barriers to success—chronic homelessness, serious and persistent mental illness, substance use disorders, and other disabilities. We know that programs maintaining a high fidelity Housing First practice typically report a housing retention rate of between 85-90%, but this work is not without its challenges. Unwanted guests, noise disturbances, damages, clutter, and unsanitary conditions are just some of the issues property managers, clinicians, and other support professionals contend with in supporting their clients to maintain successful tenancy. In this session, we’ll discuss setting expectations, communication, harm reduction in supportive housing, and strategies for addressing common tenancy challenges. Landlords, program participants, and support staff all share a common goal—keeping people housed! Join us to learn how to preserve your landlord relationships while supporting participant needs and preventing eviction.

Learning Objectives

• Describe the role of harm reduction in supportive housing work

• Identify common tenancy challenges and practical strategies for mitigation

• Practice developing mutual agreements to maintain housing

Register here: https://housingfirstuniversity.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAvcOysrzstHNeOm1CTbwoLVpMzL0NPYqMQ

Tuesday, June 6, 2023

10:00am-12:00pm

Montgomery County Health and Human Services Behavioral Health Training Institute

Ethics and Boundaries: Whose Needs Are Being Served?

June 6 and 7, 2023 10:00 am to 12:00 pm (4 hours)

Presenter: Mary Gregorio, MA

via Zoom (SW, PCB, CPRP credits)

How do you know if you’re doing the right thing? It’s important to understand the code of ethics of your profession, which can guide your practice and help you to make the best choice in difficult and complex situations. This course will consider several types of professional standards of ethics and boundaries in the context of trauma-informed support for individuals who receive our services.

Register here: https://montco.quickbase.com/db/bkqw8eycz

Thursday, May 25, 2023

10:00am-3:15pm

In-Person Training (Mandatory for Your Way Home Providers)

Provided by Housing First University

Housing First University Training is accredited through the Association of Social Work Boards, and can provide CEU for Social Workers licensed in Pennsylvania.

Assertive Engagement

Description

Often the individuals most in need of our services are the very folks most hesitant to work with us. Past disappointments by other providers, as well as mental health symptoms and substance use patterns can create a lengthy and challenging engagement process. This training will present an overview of best practices for engagement and initiation of services for individuals experiencing homelessness. Facilitators will discuss the goals of engagement, tips for building rapport, creative strategies for those facing barriers to care, and relevant evidence-based practice skills. Through review of case studies and real client scenarios, attendees will learn that the most important thing we can do for our participants is continue to show up.

Learning Objectives

• Define the purpose and goals of engagement

• Articulate the importance of centering client needs

• Name three common barriers to care and three creative solutions to overcome those barriers

Motivational Interviewing & the Stages of Change

Description

Motivational Interviewing is a person-centered strategy that providers can employ to support clients toward making positive changes in their lives. Through honest conversations that acknowledge how challenging it can be to embark on a journey of recovery, providers can help clients resolve ambivalence, stand up to insecurities, and implement necessary changes in their lives. Attendees will gain insight into the foundations and key principles of motivational interviewing and learn specific strategies to encourage change. This session will invite attendees to reflect on their direct service work and consider use of this effective, evidence-based method with their clients.

Learning Objectives

• Articulate the role of motivational interviewing in participant-centered care

• Define sustain talk and change talk as components of ambivalence

• Explain the OARS method of motivational interviewing

Held in-person at the Community Partner’s Center, Colmar PA.

Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/assertive-engagment-and-motivational-interviewing-tickets-547764858437

Tuesday, May 23, 2023

10:00am-12:00pm

Montgomery County Health and Human Services Behavioral Health Training Institute

Intro to Crisis Management & De-Escalation: Best Practices and Techniques

May 23, 2023 10:00 am to 12:00 pm

Presenter: Kris Janifer, MS, CPRP

via Zoom (SW, CPRP and PCB Credits) -

2 hours

This training will discuss the role and development of crisis plans, as well as understanding the value of Wellness Recovery Action Plans (WRAP). Also learn more about crisis management, including how to respond, what is helpful and what might not be so helpful. How can we prevent crisis and also what we can learn from crisis situations will be addressed. Information about Mental Health Advanced Directives will also be discussed.

Register here: https://montco.quickbase.com/db/bkqw8eycz

Fair Housing for Shelters and Non-profit Housing Agencies

May 17, 2023 | 10:00 am – 11:30 am

The Housing Equality Center of PA will be providing a one and half hour webinar training for nonprofit housing providers on the Fair Housing Act and Title VI protections for federally funded activities, including LEP and Equal Access and Gender Identity Rules in HUD funded programs. This training covers the following topics:

• Fair Housing Act and Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964

• Discriminatory Treatment under the Fair Housing Act

• Disability Issues including Reasonable Accommodations and Modifications, Assistance Animals

• HUD Guidance on Criminal Records

• HUD Guidance on Harassment

• Limited English Proficiency Language Access Requirements Under Title VI

• HUD Program Rules: Equal Access and Gender Identity

• Practical Considerations for Providers of HUD Funded Housing and Services

• Best Practices for Compliance

The Housing Equality Center of Pennsylvania (HECP) is the nation’s oldest fair housing agency. A nonprofit civil rights organization and HUD designated Qualified Fair Housing Enforcement Organization, HECP has worked since 1956 to educate and advocate for equal access to quality, affordable housing.

Pre-registration is required. 

To register, click here

May 17 and 18, 2023

9am-12pm via Zoom

Montgomery County Health and Human Services Behavioral Health Training Institute

Hoarding: An In-Depth Review of Interventions

Presenters: Courtney Owen, LCSW and Dara Leinweber, Hoarding Program Coordinator

Social Work, PCB, and CPRP credits are pending approval

Training focus will include:

• How to engage, build trust, establish rapport to begin the intervention process

• How hoarding impacts the individual AND the community

• Skills building

• CBT-Focused Care Management

• Model Motivational Interviewing and Harm Reduction as a part of treatment

• Building a team as part of the intervention

• Setting up and implementing a sorting session

• Building sustainability and evaluation into program services

Jewish Family and Children Services has developed an innovative Hoarding Program model that demonstrates positive outcomes to reduce the negative impacts of hoarding behaviors and create stability for older adults to safely age in place. The overarching goals of the program are to implement behavioral and sustainable interventions to older adults in the Greater Philadelphia area by helping them age in place safely by reducing environmental safety concerns, preventing evictions, and increasing physical and mental health; and reduce recidivism in individuals by increasing preventative measures and after-care.

Register here: https://montco.quickbase.com/db/bkqw8eycz