Presenters & Sessions

5 Worldwide Helpers (1.0 CEU)

Annetta Benjamin Guillen Garcia, LPC

The presentation will provide five distinct worldwide mental health helpers for individuals in various countries. The presentation will describe information to obtain and utilize positive mental health habits for daily living. Learning these healthy habits will enhance unity, health, and self-esteem. The purpose of the 5 Worldwide Helpers is to educate and promote positive mental health habits around the world. Learning these helpers encourages unity, healthy habits, and positive self-esteem amongst individuals, families, and their communities. The presentation consists of three learning objectives displayed through an interactive style of teaching.

Mrs. Annetta Benjamin Guillen Garcia also known as Mrs. Benjamin obtained her bachelor’s degree in psychology and Master’s degree in Pastoral Counseling both from Marymount University in Arlington, Virginia. After completing her graduate degree, Mrs. Benjamin went on to receive her Clinical License as a Professional Counselor (LPC) and Certification as a National Counselor (NCC) in the state of Virginia. She specializes in counseling children, adolescents, and young adults with behavior, academic, self-esteem, coping, communication, bereavement, eating, and anger issues. She also counsels’ adults, couples, and the elderly with spiritual, bereavement, communication, family, relationship, depression, self-esteem, body image, and anxiety concerns. Mrs. Benjamin has been in private practice at Benjamin Counseling Center, LLC for 13 years and has been able to expand to a group practice. She is also a Clinical Supervisor for Residents In Counseling, Undergraduate and Graduate student interns. Mrs. Benjamin can also be found at colleges, elementary and high schools, churches, and various community centers as a speaker, providing mental health and wellness education.

A Generation in Crisis: Ethical Considerations for Counseling Older Adults (1.0 CEU)

Stephanie Chalk, PhD, LPC, NCC 

Older adults across the globe are underserved in mental health care. Many counselors do not have specialized training or experience in working with this population, leaving older adults with fewer options for mental health providers. The literature review and presentation aims to increase understanding of the unique ethical considerations of counseling older adults, improve ethical decision-making, and increase confidence in working with older adults. Current research, case studies, and laws and ethical guidelines to counseling older adults in the United States and Europe will be discussed.

Stephanie Chalk, PhD, LPC, NCC is an Assistant Professor at Marymount University and Licensed Professional Counselor with LifeStance Health. Dr. Chalk's research, scholarly, and clinical interests include trauma, multiculturalism, human development, and disability. Dr. Chalk has won multiple awards for her teaching and service.  Stephanie Chalk, PhD, LPC, NCC is an Assistant Professor and the Associate Director of the School of Counseling at Marymount University. She is also the founder and owner of Two Rivers Psychotherapy and Consulting. Dr. Chalk served as the President of the Mediterranean Region Counselors Association in 2018-2019, and Past-President in 2019-2020. Dr. Chalk's clinical and scholarly interests include trauma, crisis, multiculturalism, disability, and neuroscience-based clinical approaches.

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 A Multicultural Review of Substance Abuse Amongst Youth/Teenagers, Evidence-Based Treatment Practices, and Global Intervention (1.0 CEU)

Dr. Shelly Aboagye, Ed.D 

Dr. Aboagye joined Marymount University's School of Counseling in 2021 as a Visiting Assistant Professor. She has taught a range of courses, including Advanced Human Growth and Development, Counseling for Individuals, Advanced Counseling Theories and Techniques, and Internship and Practicum. Her research focuses on family systems, spirituality and wellbeing, professional identity development, and student development and academic achievement. Dr. Aboagye is currently serving as the President of the Mediterranean Region Counselor Association and is a fellow in aging research with Marymount University Center for Optimum Aging. She is also a member of the American Counselor Association (ACA), the North American Society for Adlerian Psychology (NASAP), and the Generatology Society of America (GSA). In addition to her academic work, she provides clinical consultation at a substance abuse treatment center in Maryland.

Addressing Intergenerational Trauma and counseling implications with Sikh Community (1.0 CEU)

The presentation relates to the theme of unity in many ways. Sikhism is the fifth largest faith in the world, it's imperative that more counselors and healthcare providers are well informed about the needs of this community. By becoming more aware of the faith itself, history, intergenerational trauma, current events and geopolitical issues, we can bring that into the therapeutic process to help aid clients in the healing process. The presentation will also aim to uncover barriers to mental health within the Sikh community as well as treatments methods.

 Mehtab Kaur LPC, MA, NCC

Ms. Kaur is currently serving the Northern Virginia area as a Licensed Professionals counselor in a partial hospitalization and outpatient settings. Her clinical experience is working with children, adolescents, adults and geriatrics in various settings. Currently serves as an active member of the American Counseling Association as well as the Chi Sigma Iota chapter.

Bridging the Gap: Addressing Co-occurring Career and Mental Health Concerns through Evidence-based Interventions (2.0 CEUs)

Dr. Seth C.W. Hayden

Career and mental health are central features of the human experience. Across the globe, people encounter challenges in both areas that impact their overall wellness. There is substantial empirical evidence of the relationship between career development and mental health which has implications for counseling practice. This presentation will highlight evidence-based interventions designed to address co-occurring career and mental health concerns. Relevant resources on the topic will be provided. The presentation is designed for counselors working in a variety of settings who encounter co-occurring career and mental health concerns. It is also relevant to counselor educators tasked with preparing students to effectively support those with these types of presenting concerns.

Dr. Seth C.W. Hayden is an associate professor of counseling and coordinator of the clinical mental health program at Wake Forest University. Dr. Hayden’s research focuses on the connection between career development and mental health. In addition, he examines the career and personal development needs of military service members, veterans, and their families.

Dr. Hayden received his doctoral degree in counselor education from the University of Virginia. Dr. Hayden is a licensed clinical mental health counselor in North Carolina, a national certified counselor, a certified clinical mental health counselor, and an approved clinical supervisor. In addition, Dr. Hayden is a past-president of the Military and Government Counseling Association and National Career Development Association, both divisions of the American Counseling Association.

Dr. Hayden is a licensed clinical mental health counselor in North Carolina, a national certified counselor, a certified clinical mental health counselor, and an approved clinical supervisor. In addition, Dr. Hayden is a past-president of the Military and Government Counseling Association and National Career Development Association, both divisions of the American Counseling Association.

Building the bridge to mental health: Marymount C-SHARP Fellows serving underrepresented populations (1.0 CEU)

Dr. Lisa R. Jackson-Cherry, Stephanie Chalk, PhD, LPC, NCC , Bridget Frothingham

Marymount University School of Counseling was awarded a 1.2M grant to increase the number of clinical mental health counselors who will work with medically underserved populations or settings (MUP/S). Under the grant, students are working in agencies with clients experiencing acute crises, with teen homelessness, domestic violence, LGBTQ+ populations, in rural areas, and with clients whose primary language is not English. Faculty will describe the training components of the grant and students will share the clinical work, ways to decrease the stigma of mental health with MUP/S, and grant specialized training in trauma informed care and violence across the lifespan. Information on working through grants will be shared.

Dr. Lisa R. Jackson-Cherry

Lisa R. Jackson-Cherry, is Professor and School Director for the Department of Counseling at Marymount University. She is a Fellow with the American Counseling Association (ACA) and served a two terms on ACA Governing Council. She is the past- President of ASERVIC, Legislative Representative for the LCPC-M (Maryland), and appointed as Board member of the Professional Counselors and Therapists in Maryland, serving 4 years as Board Chair and as the Interim Executive Director. She is the recipient of the ACA Carl Perkins Government Award; Leadership, Meritorious, and Lifetime Service Awards from ASERVIC, and Lifetime Service Award from the Military and Government in Counseling for her work with First Responders. She is the co-editor of the text Crisis Assessment, Intervention, and Prevention (3rd edition) and co-author of Practicum and Internship: A handbook for competent clinical practices ( 2021).

Dr. Stephanie Chalk

Stephanie Chalk, PhD, LPC, NCC is an Assistant Professor at Marymount University and Licensed Professional Counselor with LifeStance Health. Dr. Chalk's research, scholarly, and clinical interests include trauma, multiculturalism, human development, and disability. Dr. Chalk has won multiple awards for her teaching and service.  Stephanie Chalk, PhD, LPC, NCC is an Assistant Professor and the Associate Director of the School of Counseling at Marymount University. She is also the founder and owner of Two Rivers Psychotherapy and Consulting. Dr. Chalk served as the President of the Mediterranean Region Counselors Association in 2018-2019, and Past-President in 2019-2020. Dr. Chalk's clinical and scholarly interests include trauma, crisis, multiculturalism, disability, and neuroscience-based clinical approaches.

Bridget Forthingham

Bridget is a Clinical Mental Health Counseling master's student at Marymount University. She earned her undergraduate degree from James Madison University in Psychology. Bridget is devoted to assisting a broad range of clients, focusing mainly on the importance of immediate intervention for those experiencing trauma. She is passionate about helping military members, first responders, and refugees. In March of 2023, Bridget furthered her research skills and presented the immediate needs of refugees in Eastern Europe at the Mediterranean Region-Counselors Association Annual Conference. This opportunity has motivated her to continue assisting populations of trauma. She is utilizing her clinical placement to strengthen her techniques when helping individuals experiencing trauma, anxiety, and depression. She has experience working with students and alumni in higher education, assisting them with their career goals and needs.

Calling In: Examining Unconscious Bias (1.0 CEU)  

While helping professions espouses impartiality, inequities in health care remain pervasive. Cultural stereotypes often shape personal perceptions and worldviews, leading to biased interactions with patients and clients. Counseling professionals, like all others, are vulnerable to internalizing stereotypes and, in some instances, overt prejudice. Implicit bias, that is, unintended prejudices, contributes to the differential treatment received by minority patients. Several studies report the presence of unconscious bias in an array of treatment modalities, including medical decision-making and planning, as well as the patient relationship. The presentation offers a critical view of the medical exploitation and oppression of minoritized groups and provides strategies to support the expansion of advocacy and social justice.

Participants will be able to define unconscious bias, its implications on mental health treatment and will learn advocacy strategies to decrease unconscious bias.

Dr. Eugenie Joan Looby

Eugenie Joan Looby, Ph.D., LPC, NCC, ACS is a Professor of Counselor Education at Mississippi State University where she has been faculty for over 20 years and currently serves as Graduate Coordinator of the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program. Her clinical experiences include working with individuals across the developmental spectrum (children, adolescents, adults) and providing individual, group and family counseling for a wide range of personal, social, and developmental issues across in- patient and outpatient settings. She has numerous publications, including a co-authored textbook on multicultural counseling and has delivered a body of presentations, workshops and training sessions to varied audiences on counseling and clinical concerns. Her research interests span multicultural and diversity issues, treating sexual trauma, spirituality, gender issues with underserved and rural women, and social justice/advocacy counseling.

Chiquita Long Holmes

Chiquita Long Holmes is employed by Community Counseling Services (Region VII; State of Mississippi, USA) where she serves as the Mobile Crisis Emergency Response Team (M-CeRT) Coordinator and also provides consultation for the City of Louisville, MS on matters of equity and inclusion. Chiquita is a doctoral student at Mississippi State University, pursuing a terminal degree in Counselor Education and Supervision. Additionally, Chiquita has over 20 years of clinical supervision and administrative expertise in mental health counseling. She has worked in various small and large group settings, including rural community mental health care, inpatient services, crisis intervention, trauma, and the treatment of substance use disorders.

At Mississippi State University, Chiquita actively engages in teaching and service. She is a doctoral teaching assistant and lecturer with instructional experience in clinical supervision, crisis intervention, multicultural counseling, family systems, trauma, developmental aspects of counseling, and group facilitation.

Co-occurring Disorders: Impact of Symptomology on Nuclear Family (1.0 CEU)

Yasi Sherbaf, LPC

Co-Occurring Disorders - not only do they impact the individual with the diagnosis, but they also deeply impact one’s nuclear family. After attending & participating in this presentation, you will be able to obtain more insight and knowledge into how to better support family members struggles with their loved one’s diagnosis.

Ms. Sherbaf, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), attended Marymount University and received her M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Magna Cum Laude, 2020.  Prior to joining Arlington County’s Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) Team, Yasi worked with individuals who were incarcerated at an adult detention center. Yasi has an extensive history of working with individuals struggling with severe mental illness, substance use disorders, trauma, domestic violence, and homelessness.

Cultural Competency through decolonizing practices (1.0)

Dr. Jimena Schroeder

Cultural competency is a broad concept that is often reduced to only understanding clients' cultural backgrounds. Yet, cultural competency includes taking into consideration clients needs related to their environment, socioeconomic status, historical trauma, gender, religion, age, and much more. Decolonizing teaching practices benefit the training of emerging clinicians through methods that do not reinforce the narrative that traditional practices and theories use to simplify the complexity of a client's cultural identity.

Dr. J. Schroeder is  a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of North Dakota and a National Certified Counselor. Her  PhD is in Counselor Education and Supervision from the North Dakota State University, as well as a Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a B.A. in Psychology. Dr. J. Schroeder is  in private practice as an individual and couple counselor, and at a psychiatric hospital as a needs assessment counselor. Dr. J. Schroeder’s  experience is  working with crisis, trauma, suicidality, career counseling, group counseling, social justice, dual diagnosis, and psychotic disorders.

Developing Healthy Connections Through Cultural Inclusion (1.0)

Dr. Cindy Melton

Connecting the dots from theory to practical application requires intentionality, respect, practice, effective training, identification of existing cultural biases, and exposure to a variety of cultures. Understanding bias, building awareness, and having an open mind and equitable spirit are among the first steps to real change. While trying to create an inclusive and welcoming environment, one must also promote the importance of mental health wellness. The presentation includes information and steps for incorporating strategies to address challenging interactions regarding mental health wellness, to promote the profession of counseling, and to develop healthy connections through cultural inclusion.

Dr. Melton currently serves as the Dean for the School of Education at Mississippi College, which houses the departments of psychology, counseling, kinesiology, and teacher education. Her professional career spans more than twenty-five years and ranges from K-12 education with a focus in literacy instruction and serving children with special needs, to higher education where she has served as Director of Field Experiences, Accreditation Director, and Department Chair before serving as an Academic Dean at her University.  Cindy has been appointed to the United States National Advisory Council of State Representatives for the American Association of Colleges of Teacher Education, appointed to the Governor's Education Human Capitol Task Force, as well as the Governor's Task Force on Special Education, and the State Task Force on Teacher Preparation and Literacy Development. She was also appointed as Chair for the Mississippi Licensure Commission and elected as President for the Mississippi Association of Colleges of Teacher.

Embracing Diversity in Play Therapy (2.0)

Dr. Jennifer L. Slover

The presentation is designed to enhance participants' understanding and competence in providing culturally sensitive and inclusive play therapy services. Participants will explore the importance of cultural competence in play therapy and gain insights into the impact of culture, ethnicity, and diversity on children's emotional well-being and therapeutic outcomes. Utilizing support from current literature and current events, creative and inclusive interventions will be explored to help support the healing and growth of children around the globe.

Dr. Jennifer L. Slover is a practicing Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, National Certified Counselor, and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor in Huntsville, Alabama. She received her Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from Capella University. Jennifer currently owns her own practice, Play and Grow Counseling, which focuses on utilizing creative therapeutic approaches to promote healing and growth for children, adolescents, and their families. Jennifer also owns and operates the Discover Play Training Institute in which she helps supervise and train clinicians towards their Registered Play Therapy credential. Her areas of practice and research include play therapy and creative approaches with consideration of neurological development and diversity in counseling, supervision, and counselor education.

Empowering Vulnerable Clients: Ethical considerations for counseling youth and clients with disabilities (2.0 CEUs)

Dr. Stephanie Chalk

The presentation will prepare licensed professional counselors, residents in counseling, counseling interns, and students with the ethical foundations for working with vulnerable populations, including children and adolescents and individuals with disabilities. Guided by the ACA Code of Ethics, this presentation will provide training on situations requiring mandated action and support on navigating ethical dilemmas and “grey areas.” Participants will learn how to navigate personal values, professional ethics, and boundaries when working with these populations through case studies, research, and ethical guidelines.

Stephanie Chalk, PhD, LPC, NCC is an Assistant Professor at Marymount University and Licensed Professional Counselor with LifeStance Health. Dr. Chalk's research, scholarly, and clinical interests include trauma, multiculturalism, human development, and disability. Dr. Chalk has won multiple awards for her teaching and service.  Stephanie Chalk, PhD, LPC, NCC is an Assistant Professor and the Associate Director of the School of Counseling at Marymount University. She is also the founder and owner of Two Rivers Psychotherapy and Consulting. Dr. Chalk served as the President of the Mediterranean Region Counselors Association in 2018-2019, and Past-President in 2019-2020. Dr. Chalk's clinical and scholarly interests include trauma, crisis, multiculturalism, disability, and neuroscience-based clinical approaches.

Exploring the Role of Parental Involvement and Attachment Styles in Child Therapy: Implications for Clinical Practice (1.0 CEU)

Maya Khan, MA

The presentation empowers therapists to forge stronger therapeutic alliances, nurture healthier parent-child attachments, and foster positive developmental outcomes for children under their care. Understanding the intricacies of parental involvement and attachment styles in child therapy is paramount for therapists striving to provide effective care. By understanding the dynamics between parental engagement and attachment patterns, therapists can gain invaluable insights into tailoring interventions that resonate deeply with their young clients.

Maya Khan, MA, is a Resident in Counseling with a diverse caseload that includes children, adolescents, and adults. Maya prioritizes cultural competency, recognizing the importance of understanding and respecting individual differences. Her passion lies in supporting individuals on their journey toward emotional well-being, empowering them to lead fulfilling lives. Her professional experience spans working with individuals who have encountered trauma, substance use issues, behavioral challenges, and co-occurring disorders. Maya graduated with an undergraduate degree in Psychology from Marymount University and went on to earn a dual Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Forensic and Legal Psychology

Gender Identity Development Scale and Counselor Advocacy for Gender Minorities (2.0)

The study was conducted to develop the Gender Identity Development Scale (GIDS), a counseling and training tool. The GIDS assesses cross-gender feelings and behaviors, impression management, interpersonal skills and coping, intimacy, and self-acceptance. To norm the GIDS, a sample of transgender and gender non-binary (TGNB) individuals across fours age groups in difference phases of gender exploration completed the measure along with nine demographic items. Developing the GIDS involved (a) conducting a literature review, (b) creating the items, and (c) gathering data from TGNB individuals to analyze demographic data and conduct principal component analysis.

Dr. Jack D. Simons

Jack Simons, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor at Mercy University in New York. He is also affiliated with the Department of Psychology in the Faculty of Education at Charles University in Prague, Czech Republic. Dr. Simons received his doctorate in counseling from the University of Missouri, St. Louis with an emphasis in school counseling and lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender topics. He completed postdoctoral training at the Francis McClelland Institute for Children, Youth, and Families in Arizona. Dr. Simons has published extensively. His lab is dedicated to studying factors that influence sexual and gender minority individuals’ experiences including identity and personal strength, educational and counseling experiences, social support, and health behaviors. His research interests are inclusive education, identity behavior theory, and STEM advocacy.

Incarcerated African American Mothers: When they do time, we do time with them ( 1.0 CEU)

Dr. Samantha A.B. Knox

The mini session will explore the history of institutionalized racism on African American women and its relationship to mass incarceration. The presenter will introduce the findings from an exploratory case study approach and discuss its connection to Bowlby's Attachment Theory, Critical Race Theory, and Feminist Theory. The session will include recommendations for professional counselors and explore areas of future research.

Dr. Samantha A.B. Knox holds a Bachelors in Elementary Education from Dillard University, a master’s in counseling/ Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Trinity Washington University, and a Doctorate in Counselor Education and Supervision from Marymount University. Dr. Knox has a passion for both teaching and clinical work. Dr. Knox is a Licensed Professional Counselor in DC and Oklahoma and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor/ Approved Clinical Supervisor in Maryland. She has private practice that employs several contractors and hosts counseling student interns from Trinity Washington University, The Chicago School of Professional Psychology and Bowie State University. Prior to pursuing full-time private practice, Dr. Knox served as a Visiting Assistant Professor at Marymount University, Adjunct Professor at Tarleton State University, and Director of Clinical Training at Trinity Washington University. Dr. Knox recently served as a clinical expert for the TV One true crime series “For My Man” which is due to air March 2024.

Infusing Social Justice Advocacy into the Counselor Preparation Program : Advocacy through experiential projects ( 1.0 CEU)

Dr.  Abdelaziz Elmadani

Dr. Elmadani earned a doctorate in counselor education and supervision from the University of North Carolina Charlotte. He also earned a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling with a school counseling certification and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from New Jersey City University. He is a Certified Professional School Counselor and eligible for Clinical Mental Health Counselor Licensure. Dr. Elmadani has experience as a supervisor in working with groups and individuals with severe mental health disorders. He also has experience working in school counseling and higher education settings as a school counselor and college advisor. He worked as a counselor educator and program director for mental health counseling programs. Dr. Elmadani serves as an Editorial Review Board Member for the Departures in Critical Qualitative Research Journal (DCQRJ).

Integrating AI and Counseling: Addressing the opportunities and challenges (1.0 CEU)

Amy Vogel, LMHC, NCC, CT, CCTP

Our rapidly evolving technological landscape presents opportunities and risks for the counseling field in advancing equity in mental health worldwide. As research shows, Artificial Intelligence (AI) holds potential benefits for counseling, including expanding access globally. However, there are also concerns around bias, transparency, privacy, and cultural responsiveness in AI design and use. The presentation will spotlight ethical considerations for integrating AI in counseling and discuss developments and implications through an interactive discussion to build shared understanding. Thoughtful advocacy will ensure AI promotes equitable mental wellness worldwide. By considering how AI may shape counseling's future, we can advocate for innovation that expands access to culturally responsive support, empowers diverse communities, and enables all people to thrive holistically.

Ms. Vogel is a dedicated licensed mental health counselor and current doctoral student at the University of the Cumberlands. She owns Paradise Counseling LLC in the state of Florida, aiming to help clients heal from trauma and rebuild their lives with compassion. With expertise in suicide prevention, childhood trauma, and grief support, she strives to eliminate barriers to mental health. She has a new interest in learning more about artificial intelligence and integrating it ethically and responsibly into counseling. Amy Vogel is a passionate mental health counselor pursuing a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision. She holds a master's in clinical Mental Health Counseling and has been licensed as a Mental Health Counselor in Florida since 2023. Amy has over 7 years of experience providing counseling and crisis intervention services to clients struggling with a range of mental health concerns. She facilitates psychotherapy groups and is interested in the potential for AI to improve mental health treatment. Amy is a certified trainer dedicated to raising awareness and supporting those affected by mental health issues. She serves on the Board for the Southwest Florida Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. With her background, expertise, passion for the cause, and interest in innovative solutions like AI, Amy is committed to advancing the field of mental healthcare, crisis response, and advocacy.

Neuroception of Safety: Children's behavior explained (1.0 CEU)

Hayden Ahlbrandt, LPC, MA, LCMHCA, NCC

By understanding the neuroscience and what is happening in the nervous system in moments of dysregulation, we can completely shift our approach in how we respond to an escalated child. We can understand their behaviors as a result of the human experience, understanding that they are experiencing the biological response of fight, flight, or freeze, and are doing their best to navigate this activation. We can empathize in knowing that we all experience this dysregulation, and their activation is currently bigger than they have the ability to self-regulate. I believe that viewing their behaviors, or symptoms of a dysregulated nervous system, through this lens, allows us to promote true equitable mental health wellness in that we recognize the humanness in it. It helps us to respond in an effort to create a neuroception of safety for any and every kid in these moments that already feel so big and challenging for them.

Hayden Ahlbrandt is a Certified Synergetic Play Therapist that started his career working as a School Counselor at the elementary level. In this role. Mr. Ahlbrandt was introduced to Synergetic Play Therapy (SPT) through a grant in which the school was incorporating the tenets of SPT to work towards creating a more trauma-informed school culture. This helped to bring neuroscience to the forefront of how the school responded to challenging behaviors and calls for support in the classroom, and helped Mr. Ahlbrandt better understand how to support the dysregulated students to whom he was working with. Mr. Ahlbrandt owns and works as a Play Therapist at Low Tide Play Therapy in North Carolina and Colorado in the United States, as well as the owner of Low Tide Coaching and Consulting. He worked as an Auxiliar de Conversacion in Madrid, Spain, which began his path towards becoming a School Counselor, which is where he was introduced to Synergetic Play Therapy. He is now a certified Synergetic Play Therapist, and while he loves his work as a Play Therapist, he has also found great enjoyment in supporting other adults who interact with and have a great impact on the lives of children worldwide.

Preparing future counselors to deliver equitable mental health counseling services to a global society (1.0 CEU)

Join us on a journey of understanding and advocating for a more inclusive counselor education experience. In this presentation we explore the pressing need for mental health counselors to use a culturally aware and trauma informed approach to address the challenges of inequality in our global society. We will discuss how to shape curriculum to provide career skills for counselors to deliver culturally competent mental health and wellness services.

Dr. Christine Karper

Christine Karper, Ph.D., LMHC, QCS(FL) obtained her master’s degree in mental health counseling and her Doctoral Degree in counselor education and supervision from the University of Central Florida. She has been serving the Central Florida Community as a Clinician and a Counselor Educator for over 20 years. She is a member of the American Counseling Association, the Association for Mental Health Counselors and the Association for Counselor Education and Supervision and the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association. She is currently a program chair for the University of Phoenix in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. In her work in academia, she has presented both nationally and internationally and has published articles in several journals in counseling, psychology, assessment, and technology.

Dr. Sheila Babendir

Dr. Sheila Babendir is the Academic Director of Counseling for the University of Phoenix.  She received her Doctorate degree in Counseling Psychology and a master's degree in counseling education/ counseling psychology. Dr. Sheila is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Counseling Educator.  She has been a faculty in counselor education since 2009 teaching courses in theory and practice, working with curriculum and program development and overseeing accreditation efforts.

Recognizing Religious Trauma is Key to Wellness (1.0 CEU)

Religion has deep roots in world history. For many, religion has brought comfort, relief, and guidance. Unfortunately, for others religion has caused pain and personal damage. This interactive round table will provide an overview of religious trauma, positive religious coping, and negative religious coping. An overview of how to recognize how this can present in the counseling process will be discussed. Presenters come from the counseling and religious disciplines.

Dr. Imelda N. Bratton, LPCCS, PSC, RPTS 

Dr. Imelda N. Bratton is Core Faculty at Walden University. She has 25 years clinical experience working with clients in the school and mental health settings. Her primary focus is working with trauma, sand tray, and ADHD.

William N. Kenney

Bill Kenney is Vice-President of One Horizon Institute, a US based think-tank focused on critically examining Christian mission in a global context. He has worked in a variety of alternative ministry contexts throughout the US, and globally, over 25+ years. His research and interests overlap the intersections of religious faith, social science, philosophy and post-humanist studies.

Reframing the ACA Ethical Code on Impairment (C.2.g.) in Terms of Wellness: Addressing, Supporting, and Strategic Interventions (2.0)

The intention of the presentation is to invite attendees to review the ACA Ethical Code (2014, C.2.g.) concerning practitioner impairment through the lens of lacking wellness. Observable indicators of lack of wellness, comfort level in addressing wellness concerns, and strategies to do so effectively will be discussed. Furthermore, participants will be invited to participate in three multiculturally embracing creative interventions that assist in illuminating perceived wellness for students, counselors, and colleagues. After attending the session, in alignment with the conference theme, attendees should feel more confident in promoting equitable mental health wellness using ethical standards of best practice as a uniting effort rather than an adversarial tool. The interventions they will learn embrace multicultural consideration which will assist them in wellness advocating worldwide.

Dr. Shannon Shoemaker

Dr. Freeburg is the department chair of the Counselor Educator Program at Bridgewater State University in Massachusetts (USA) and has a small private practice. Her interests include marital counseling, creativity and wellness in counseling, and supervision best practices.

School Age Experiences: Themes Across Four Generations of Gender Minorities (2.0) 

Dr. Jack D. Simons

Because gender minorities may lack positive social support, a retrospective life story study was conducted. Thirty-five gender minority people comprising participants from a depathologization cohort, an HIV/AIDS epidemic cohort, a Stonewall rebellion cohort, and an ignored cohort participated in life story interviews. The participants were located throughout the United States. Of the 35 participants interviewed, all talked about their school-age experiences during elementary, middle, and high school. Four themes were identified in the data: (a) impact of relationships, (b) importance of affect, (c) being visible, and (d) coping. Implications for counseling practice and future research are offered for educators, researchers, and helping professionals.

Jack Simons, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor at Mercy University in New York. He is also affiliated with the Department of Psychology in the Faculty of Education at Charles University in Prague, Czech Republic. Dr. Simons received his doctorate in counseling from the University of Missouri, St. Louis with an emphasis in school counseling and lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender topics. He completed postdoctoral training at the Francis McClelland Institute for Children, Youth, and Families in Arizona. Dr. Simons has published extensively. His lab is dedicated to studying factors that influence sexual and gender minority individuals’ experiences including identity and personal strength, educational and counseling experiences, social support, and health behaviors. His research interests are inclusive education, identity behavior theory, and STEM advocacy.

Stressors and trauma experienced by military and first responders: Best practices for effective interventions. (1.0)

Dr. Jackson-Cherry

The alarming increase in mental health and suicide rates among first responders has caused researchers and counselors to reevaluate societal, occupational, and other stressors experienced by those who serve our communities. The connection to prior military service and transition to first responder groups (focus in addition to reports that 25% of law enforcement who take their life have prior military service is cause to reevaluate assessment and effective interventions. The presentation will explore both military and first responder stressors and exposure to occupational trauma. Further, the presentation will share current scholarship, Best Practices for Counseling First Responder Groups, and experiences working with first responders to offer effective assessment and intervention practices when addressing the unique mental health concerns.

Dr. Jackson-Cherry is Professor and School Director of Counseling at Marymount University. She is a Fellow with the American Counseling Association (ACA), served two terms on ACA Governing Council, appointed to the Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists in Maryland, serving 4 years as Board Chair and as the Interim Executive Director. She is the recipient of the ACA Carl Perkins Government Award; Lifetime Service Awards from ASERVIC, European Branch of ACA, MR-CA and Military and Government in Counseling for her work with First Responders. Her research focuses on ethical and legal issues in counseling and supervision, mental health with military and first responders, risk assessment, and religious and spiritual integration into counseling. She has multiple peer-reviewed publications and over 50 peer-reviewed and invited presentations.

Bridget Forthingham

Bridget is a Clinical Mental Health Counseling master's student at Marymount University. She earned her undergraduate degree from James Madison University in Psychology. Bridget is devoted to assisting a broad range of clients, focusing mainly on the importance of immediate intervention for those experiencing trauma. She is passionate about helping military members, first responders, and refugees. In March of 2023, Bridget furthered her research skills and presented the immediate needs of refugees in Eastern Europe at the Mediterranean Region-Counselors Association Annual Conference. This opportunity has motivated her to continue assisting populations of trauma. She is utilizing her clinical placement to strengthen her techniques when helping individuals experiencing trauma, anxiety, and depression. She has experience working with students and alumni in higher education, assisting them with their career goals and needs.

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Stressors experienced by new African immigrants to the United States and the need to integrate spiritual coping skills: Best practice for a global application (1.0 CEU)

Dr. Sr. Hellen Khisa

With the increase of immigrants in the United States and across European countries, the need for mental health counselors to understand the unique stressors and coping skills that should be used for multicultural competence in working with diverse populations is essential. This presentation will explore the perceptions of stressors connected with African immigrants to the United States and the importance of spiritual and religious coping strategies. The information provided will be helpful to any country receiving immigrants from East African communities.

Sr. Hellen Khisa, PhD LSOSF graduated from Marymount in 2016 with an MA in CMHC and the Ph.D. from the Graduate Theological Foundation in Counselor Education and Supervision with Spiritual and Pastoral Integration.  She also holds the Master of Science (MA) in Special Education from Mercyhurst University and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Special Education in secondary education (9th -12th) from Mercyhurst University.

Sr. Hellen Khisa is a Kenyan Catholic religious sister, a member of a Franciscan African order of nuns called the Little Sisters of Saint Francis (L.S.O.S.F).  She served with the Franciscan Brethren of Saint Philip, Seton House, Quinton, Virginia as a director in a group home for the mentally challenged population, Columbia Child Development Center as an assistant teacher, at the Marion Shane Multicultural Center, and assisted international undergraduate students in adapting to university life.

 The Awesome Potential of Reciprocal Recovery: The Small Self as a Salve for Our Souls in Troubling Times (1.0)

Countless factors contribute to what feels like a blanket of traumatic stress and everyday distress enveloping the planet, much of which emerged in the wake of several global pandemic(s) even beyond COVID: collective loss and grief, rising rates of anxiety and depression, political divisions, vast workforce shortages across all sectors, climate anxiety, and a widespread reckoning with racial and health disparities, just to name a few. As a result, mental health concerns are rising worldwide (Burns, 2015; Hayes et al., 2018; Hong, Kim & Park, 2020; Ip and Cheung, 2020; Twenge and Joiner, 2020) creating a dire need for accessible, affordable, and culturally attuned methods to promote healing and wellbeing. Our presentation is designed to shed light on the power of awe as a potential antidote for a broad range of what ails us and to underscore how we have equal access to this unlimited, sustainable, and innately healing resource.

 Michelle Ouellette, APR

An associate professor at the State University of New York at Plattsburgh, Michelle Ouellette’s original field of study was crisis communications. In looking at the ability of target audiences to receive messages, however, she turned her attention to emotion’s role in being able to receive and process messaging, and finally, the potential role of emotions in helping to unite a fragmented world. She has previous experience dealing with a variety of crises as the director for public relations at SUNY Plattsburgh and Essex County ARC. She has a master’s in education from the University at Albany and a bachelor’s in English and diploma in education from the University of Colorado at Boulder.

Dr. Milton J. Marasch

Dr. Marasch is a licensed psychologist-doctorate in Vermont, USA. He graduated with a PhD in clinical psychology from the University of North Dakota in 1992. He has taught in adjunct positions at Jamestown University and Champlain College, and briefly served as a consulting editor on the National FORUM Journal for Exploratory Health Psychology Research. Professional service has included 25 years on the board of directors of the Vermont Psychological Association – including two years as president, and more than six years of service on the American Psychological Association Council of Representatives. Clinical experience has ranged from inpatient to outpatient settings, with settings including state hospital, community mental health, a dual diagnosis clinic for the Brattleboro Retreat, and over 21 years of private practice. Specialty areas include services to clergy and religious, rehabilitation psychology, and geropsychology.

Non-presenting co-authors Dr. Andrew Christy, Dr. Jessica Paxton, Christine Parmeter, Kelsey King and Bee Yang

The Diversity Stress Game (1.0 CEU)

Dr. Kathleen Jones-Trebatoski

The presentation will provide an experiential creative activity along with reflection and feedback. Managing stress is the increased self-awareness of your personal reaction to stress and building your sense of control and mastery over the stressors in your life. Stress is an everyday fact of life. You cannot avoid it. Stress is a change that you must adapt to, ranging from the extreme negative to the most euphoric.

Dr. Kathleen Jones-Trebatoski PhD, LPC-S has been in counseling private practice for over 25 years.  Dr. Kathleen Jones-Trebatoski  has been a counselor educator and supervisor for 20 years. She holds degrees in the Art and Counseling fields. Counseling contracts included state agencies, county agencies, mental health disaster relief, and community pro bono counseling for underserved populations. Dr. Kathleen Jones-Trebatoski  was a clinical director for several outpatient hospitalizations and specialize in stress management, clinical hypnosis, animal assisted therapy, and in the creative processes in counseling. The presenter is a LPC-Supervisor and has supervised many new professionals towards full licensure.  Dr. Kathleen Jones-Trebatoski holds numerous certifications and is an active member and presenter at professional organizations at the local, state, regional, national, and international levels. She has been involved in a number of professional counseling committees/boards (local-international levels) that promote humanistic approaches in mental health and counselor education. She has been recognized by counseling field for the work provided to communities in need, including the European Branch-ACA:  Outstanding Counselor Award; the Resolution Award (H.R. No. 1493) by State of Texas for Humanistic Counseling, and the Association for Humanistic Counseling (AHC) Humanistic Clinician of the Year Award.  Dr. Kathleen Jones-Trebatoski has been an active advocate for 20 years in Human Rights for individuals challenged with intellectual, mental health, and substance use disorders.

Using an Antiracist Checklist as a Self-Evaluation Tool to Create an Antiracist Environment (1.0 CEU)

The mini session will present the Anti-racist Training Environment Checklist to support counseling programs to reflect and develop awareness of ways to promote an antiracist training environment. Our notion is that counseling programs can use this checklist as a self-evaluation tool to assess their programs’ progress in developing and offering an antiracist training environment. In the presentation, we will demonstrate the final version of our checklist and share the process of this research project.

 Dr. Abdelaziz Elmadani

 Dr. A. Elmadani earned a doctorate in counselor education and supervision from the University of North Carolina Charlotte. He also earned a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling with a school counseling certification and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from New Jersey City University. He is a Certified Professional School Counselor and eligible for Clinical Mental Health Counselor Licensure. Dr. Elmadani has experience as a supervisor in working with groups and individuals with severe mental health disorders. He also has experience working in school counseling and higher education settings as a school counselor and college advisor. He worked as a counselor educator and program director for mental health counseling programs. Dr. Elmadani serves as an Editorial Review Board Member for the Departures in Critical Qualitative Research Journal (DCQRJ).

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Understanding trauma and ways to enhance resilience (2.0 CEUs)

Often clients present in our practice with symptoms of depression and anxiety that might be rooted in histories of trauma. It is critical for recovery that we understand the impact of trauma on the whole person and how triggers may be threatening the quality of life for clients. The key to recovery is assisting clients in building resilience, which is the ability to “bounce forward.” In this workshop we will build knowledge and skills with theoretical and practical applications in the art and science of healing trauma.

Gary U. Behrman, PhD, MSW, M.Div., LCSW served as Associate Dean of the Graduate School at Saint Louis University (SLU) Graduate School and taught for 30 years in the Schools of Social Work, Allied Health, and Medicine. Dr. Behrman is recognized for his expertise as clinician, educator, and consultant, and currently has a counseling practice in St. Louis USA. metropolitan area. He has extensive training in trauma recovery and suicide risk reduction and served as a first responder for numerous crisis events around the country, including an assignment at Ground Zero following the attacks on 9/11. His research and publications are in trauma recovery and the role of spirituality and rituals in the healing process.

Using Expressive Arts to promote client mental health equity and advocacy (1.0 CEU)

Art, music, film, digital media, and dance are universal means of communication. The   presentation focuses on the application of expressive clinical strategies that promote and advocate for client mental health equity. Expressive strategies can help clients creatively identify, address, and process mental health concerns and treatment disparities caused by systemic oppression and stigma, disaffirming LBTBTQ+ practices, clinical treatment inequities, racial and cultural trauma, multicultural insensitivity, and discrimination. Utilizing these media in therapy can also enhance counselor therapeutic skills such as empathy, compassion, and allyship which can strengthen interpersonal and clinical learning, and increase cultural sensitivity and humanness. Advocacy strategies are also provided.

Dr. Eugenie Joan Looby

Eugenie Joan Looby, Ph.D., LPC, NCC, ACS is a Professor of Counselor Education at Mississippi State University where she has been faculty for over 20 years and currently serves as Graduate Coordinator of the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program. Her clinical experiences include working with individuals across the developmental spectrum (children, adolescents, adults) and providing individual, group and family counseling for a wide range of personal, social, and developmental issues across in- patient and outpatient settings. She has numerous publications, including a co-authored textbook on multicultural counseling and has delivered a body of presentations, workshops and training sessions to varied audiences on counseling and clinical concerns. Her research interests span multicultural and diversity issues, treating sexual trauma, spirituality, gender issues with underserved and rural women, and social justice/advocacy counseling.

Chiquita Long Holmes

Chiquita Long Holmes is employed by Community Counseling Services (Region VII; State of Mississippi, USA) where she serves as the Mobile Crisis Emergency Response Team (M-CeRT) Coordinator and also provides consultation for the City of Louisville, MS on matters of equity and inclusion. Chiquita is a doctoral student at Mississippi State University, pursuing a terminal degree in Counselor Education and Supervision. Additionally, Chiquita has over 20 years of clinical supervision and administrative expertise in mental health counseling. She has worked in various small and large group settings, including rural community mental health care, inpatient services, crisis intervention, trauma, and the treatment of substance use disorders.

At Mississippi State University, Chiquita actively engages in teaching and service. She is a doctoral teaching assistant and lecturer with instructional experience in clinical supervision, crisis intervention, multicultural counseling, family systems, trauma, developmental aspects of counseling, and group facilitation.

Using Substance abuse screening tools (2.0 CEUs)

The presentation is an overview of substance abuse screening tools for diagnostic purposes and assessment. Screening and assessment protocol can only be effective if the practitioner has access to quality behavioral health tools. The wrong instrument may lead to misdiagnoses or false negative results. Strategies of engaging clients and patients will be discussed, also ways to identify symptoms of substance use disorders (both prescription and illicit) and will learn ways to increase resilience in client population by strengthening coping skills.  Attendees will have an opportunity to discuss their challenges experienced during the screening/assessment process.

Elizabeth Schwoch, LCSW, LISAC

Elizabeth Schwoch is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Independent Substance Abuse counselor with over two decades of experience working a variety of patients and clients with substance abuse issues and co-occurring disorders. Mrs. Schwoch professional experiences includes working in multiple settings such government mental health, hospitals, community agencies, working with various populations such as adolescents, adults, couples, and military-related populations. She has worked with various populations to include children, adults and families dealing with trauma, mental health and substance abuse/use issues. Mrs. Schwoch currently works for the Family Advocacy Program in Hohenfels, Germany.

Using the ‘Advocate – Counselor – Scholar’ model to reduce disparities in mental health treatment (1.0 CEU)

Dr. Jimena Schroeder

The 'Advocate - Counselor - Educator' model promotes practitioner's involvement in social justice. The model is an understanding of how client's environment affects their treatment progress and allows for clinicians to utilize the most beneficial approaches for their situation. It encourages clinicians to take an active role with their clients, communities, and their own feels by promoting social justice and advocating for change.

Dr. J. Schroeder is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of North Dakota and a National Certified Counselor. Her PhD is in Counselor Education and Supervision from the North Dakota State University, as well as a Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a B.A. in Psychology. Dr. J. Schroeder is in private practice as an individual and couple counselor, and at a psychiatric hospital as a needs assessment counselor. Dr. J. Schroeder’s experience is working with crisis, trauma, suicidality, career counseling, group counseling, social justice, dual diagnosis, and psychotic disorders.

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Utilizing Neuroscience in Calls for Support (1.0 CEU)

Hayden Ahlbrandt, LPC, MA, LCMHCA, NCC

Have you actually ever been taught how to de-escalate a student or respond to a call for support in a classroom? The mini session's goal is to impart useful knowledge and skills to empower counselors. We will explore relevant neuroscience, discuss specific examples, and give strategies to be utilized in the moment in order to connect, regulate, and get the student back to class.

Hayden Ahlbrandt is a Certified Synergetic Play Therapist that started his career working as a School Counselor at the elementary level. In this role. Mr. Ahlbrandt was introduced to Synergetic Play Therapy (SPT) through a grant in which the school was incorporating the tenets of SPT to work towards creating a more trauma-informed school culture. This helped to bring neuroscience to the forefront of how the school responded to challenging behaviors and calls for support in the classroom, and helped Mr. Ahlbrandt better understand how to support the dysregulated students to whom he was working with. Mr. Ahlbrandt owns and works as a Play Therapist at Low Tide Play Therapy in North Carolina and Colorado in the United States, as well as the owner of Low Tide Coaching and Consulting. He worked as an Auxiliar de Conversacion in Madrid, Spain, which began his path towards becoming a School Counselor, which is where he was introduced to Synergetic Play Therapy. He is now a certified Synergetic Play Therapist, and while he loves his work as a Play Therapist, he has also found great enjoyment in supporting other adults who interact with and have a great impact on the lives of children worldwide.

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Wellness focused Counseling support for military affiliated populations (2.0 CEUs)

Dr. Seth C.W. Hayden

The military experience impacts service members, veterans, and their families in many ways. Given the concerns of these populations, counselors are uniquely positioned to support to those in need. Leveraging our unique professional identity to shift the focus of care to wellness and prevention offers a novel paradigm of support for military-affiliated populations. The presentation contains information on the concerns of those affiliated with the military, a detailed description of wellness-focused counseling, and counseling interventions for military populations.

Dr. Seth C.W. Hayden is an associate professor of counseling and coordinator of the clinical mental health program at Wake Forest University. Dr. Hayden’s research focuses on the connection between career development and mental health. In addition, he examines the career and personal development needs of military service members, veterans, and their families.

Dr. Hayden received his doctoral degree in counselor education from the University of Virginia. Dr. Hayden is a licensed clinical mental health counselor in North Carolina, a national certified counselor, a certified clinical mental health counselor, and an approved clinical supervisor. In addition, Dr. Hayden is a past-president of the Military and Government Counseling Association and National Career Development Association, both divisions of the American Counseling Association.

Where is Superman? How metaphors are utilized in mental health therapy and supervision (1.0 CEU)

Dr. Kathleen Jones-Trebatoski

Creativity is a worldwide phenomenon that knows no bounds regarding multiculturalism. We will explore the Superhuman idea in mental health by utilizing a creative process. Creativity is seen as natural, playful, and non-threatening. It enables one to create a cosmos out of chaos. It is humanistic in approach, a means to be accepted and valued. With metaphors, the unconscious material is made conscious. Metaphors allows the exploration and interpretation by the student, client, or supervisee in a safe format. It is used in providing structured problem-solving and self-reflective activities. The use of metaphors is effective in helping the student/client to identify a pressing issue, monitor the progress of finding strategies, implementing strategies of both the counselor and the client. It is flexible, empowering, dynamic interaction and becomes a means to explore barriers and possible solutions. The presentation will include discussion of an experiential metaphor examples along with reflection and feedback.

Dr. Kathleen Jones-Trebatoski PhD, LPC-S has been in counseling private practice for over 25 years.  Dr. Kathleen Jones-Trebatoski  has been a counselor educator and supervisor for 20 years. She holds degrees in the Art and Counseling fields. Counseling contracts included state agencies, county agencies, mental health disaster relief, and community pro bono counseling for underserved populations. Dr. Kathleen Jones-Trebatoski  was a clinical director for several outpatient hospitalizations and specialize in stress management, clinical hypnosis, animal assisted therapy, and in the creative processes in counseling. The presenter is a LPC-Supervisor and has supervised many new professionals towards full licensure.  Dr. Kathleen  Jones-Trebatoski holds numerous certifications and is an active member and presenter at professional organizations at the local, state, regional, national, and international levels. She has been involved in a number of professional counseling committees/boards (local-international levels) that promote humanistic approaches in mental health and counselor education. She has been recognized by counseling field for the work provided to communities in need, including the European Branch-ACA:  Outstanding Counselor Award; the Resolution Award (H.R. No. 1493) by State of Texas for Humanistic Counseling, and the Association for Humanistic Counseling (AHC) Humanistic Clinician of the Year Award.  Dr. Kathleen Jones-Trebatoski has been an active advocate for 20 years in Human Rights for individuals challenged with intellectual, mental health, and substance use disorders.