Itinerary
DAY ONE: March 13th, 2025
8:45 am-9:00 am: Welcome, Housekeeping, Introduction of the today’s presenters
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9:00 am- 10:30 am
Session 1: The Art of Intentional Detachment for Clinicians and Clients of Color (1.5 CEs)
Presenter: Pamela L. Tippit, LPC-S
Summary: This session explores the transformative practice of intentional detachment as a tool for finding balance and clarity in personal and professional spaces. Tailored for clinicians and clients of color, this presentation delves into how detachment can help navigate systemic barriers, emotional burdens, and cultural expectations. Participants will gain practical strategies to release what no longer serves them, foster resilience, and create space for growth and healing—empowering both therapists and their clients to thrive.
10:45 am-12:15 pm
Session 2: Detach From Trauma (1.5 CEs)
Presenter: Adrienne McCollum-Smith, LICSW-S
Summary: This presentation provides a comprehensive framework for clinicians to guide their clients—and themselves—through the process of detaching from trauma. It highlights the intersection of trauma and cultural identity, offering practical tools for fostering resilience, releasing emotional burdens, and addressing systemic inequities that exacerbate trauma. Participants will leave with actionable strategies for supporting clients of color and sustaining their own well-being in trauma-informed care.
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12:15 pm -12:45 pm
Session 3: Ethics for Associate Licensed Counselors (ALCs) and Newly Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) (1.5 CE’s)
Presenter(s): Amberly Melendez, ALC & Cristina von Spakovski, ALC
Summary: This session equips early-career counselors with the tools to navigate common ethical challenges, maintain professional boundaries, and handle early career complexities. Topics include ethical decision-making models, boundary setting, and cultural considerations. With references to the ACA Code of Ethics, participants will gain a strong foundation for confidently and ethically serving diverse populations while building sustainable careers.
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LUNCH BREAK 30 minutes
2:30 pm-3:30 pm
Session 4 (Panel): Financial Realities of Starting and Sustaining a Mental Health Practice (1.0 CE)
Panel leader: Lenora Johnson, MSW, LCSW, CCATP, CTMH,
Panelist: Adrienne McCollum-Smith LICSW-S, Dr. Shemya Vaughn, LPC
Summary: Starting, growing, and scaling a mental health practice can present unique financial challenges. This presentation provides practical insights on budgeting, managing expenses, and scaling sustainably. Participants will gain tools for understanding financial risks and opportunities, as well as strategies for setting achievable goals to ensure long-term success.
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Day 2: Friday, March 14th, 2025
8:45 am-9:00 am: Welcome, Housekeeping, Introduction of the day’s presenters
9:00 am-10:30 am
Session 5: Embracing Healthy Relationships as an Entrepreneur (1.5 CE’s)
Presenter: Shari Pope-Williams, LPC, ICAADC
Summary: Entrepreneurship often requires balancing personal and professional relationships, which can become strained under the pressures of business ownership. This session provides strategies to foster meaningful connections, set boundaries, and maintain balance. Participants will explore how to prioritize self-care, navigate interpersonal conflicts, and build supportive networks that contribute to both personal and professional success.
10:45am-12:15pm
Session 6: Ethically Serving Clients of Color (1.5 CEs)
Presenter: Pamela L. Tippit, LPC-S
Summary: This session emphasizes the importance of cultural competence, advocacy, and equity in providing effective and inclusive mental health care. Participants will explore strategies to navigate systemic inequities, address implicit biases, and empower clients of color, all while adhering to ethical guidelines. The session integrates the ACA Code of Ethics to ensure culturally responsive practices that prioritize client welfare and respect their lived experiences.
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12:45 am-1:45 pm
Session 7: Live Q&A Panel Discussion & Wrap Up: Your Practice, Your Questions (1.0 CEs)
Panelists: Pamela Tippit, LPC-S, Lenora Johnson, MSW, LCSW, CCATP, CTMH, Adrienne McCollum-Smith, LICSW-S, Dr. Shemya Vaughn, LPC, Amberly Melendez, ALC, Cristina von Spakovski, ALC
Summary: This interactive session invites participants to engage with a panel of experienced mental health professionals. Bring your unique questions about ethical dilemmas, financial strategies, cultural considerations, or any challenges you’re facing in your practice. The panelists will provide personalized advice and insights to help you navigate your career with confidence and clarity.