Working with challenging clients is always a reality in the mental health field. This interactive training will give mental health professionals an opportunity to discuss best practices and approaches for getting to the root of challenging client behaviors. Participants will also consider how to address them with compassion and empathy. The training will also discuss strategies for managing the stress and vicarious trauma that occurs when faced with difficult situations.

Objectives:

By the end of the workshop, participants should be able to:

• Explore the root causes of “difficult” client behaviors (including factors such as readiness, diagnosis, co-occurring issues, developmental factors, social determinants)
• Discuss best practices for approaching these difficult situations
• Learn skills for reframing and addressing challenging client behaviors
• Practice strategies for managing stress and vicarious trauma when working with challenging clients

Presenter:

Kaleigh Cornelison, MSW is a trainer, facilitator, and social worker. She supports nonprofits, health centers, and schools through engaging and creative professional development opportunities. Kaleigh specializes in communication, conflict, team building, trauma-informed care, facilitation skills, and youth development. She also works as the Lead Program Specialist for the Adolescent Health Initiative at Michigan Medicine and an Adjunct Lecturer for the University of Michigan School of Social Work. She has a Master’s degree in Social Work from Washington University in St. Louis with a specialization in nonprofit management. She lives in beautiful.