Events

Finding Connection in a Disconnected World Human beings are both biologically hardwired and socially programmed to seek and benefit from connection with others. When we connect physically, emotionally, or spiritually, we actually receive a chemical reward through the release of dopamine, endorphins, and other naturally produced chemicals that bring feelings of safety, belonging, and pleasure. We experience higher levels of self-worth, and with that comes the energy and motivation to engage even more with others. However, too many adults find…

Building Resilience In this session we will explore the importance of self-regulation as an essential part of building resilience. We will help families practice breathing techniques, as well as examine concepts such as timing, containment, and emotional processing. In addition, we will talk about labels and diagnoses, examining how they may keep us focused on problems, rather than solutions. We will also share tips for how to maintain our progress in building family resilience in spite of what other families…

Rob Rodriguez speaking at licensed marriage and family therapist graduate class.

Helping Families Heal – Approaching Addiction Treatment Through the Lens of Family Systems Theory About this Event Family involvement in treatment is one of the most critical factors in long-term positive outcomes. State and Federal regulations and guidelines stipulate the necessity of family engagement, however funding for family-related services is woefully inadequate. This presentation will offer some ideas for improving family services without putting untenable stress on your facility’s operating budget. In this presentation, participants will: • Review the fundamentals…

Kids and Screen Time: Tips for how to minimize conflict in your home Many parents worry about their child’s use of technology and amount of time kids spend glued to screens. New studies link use of screens with developmental and neurological problems in children. Parents often express concerns about how to talk to kids about these risks and about how to set limits without creating unnecessary arguments or conflict. In this session, we will discuss how to balance the positive…

Understanding the Adolescent Brain: Tools and Tips for Responding to Risky Teen Behavior This presentation will explore how experiences and behaviors, along with outside influences, help develop the adolescent brain. Subjects such as “normal” developmental stages, stressors, adverse experiences, risk-taking, and how adolescents go about making choices will be discussed. There will be a highly interactive activity on communication and boundary skills. We will also offer tips and potential solutions for resolving any presenting problems such as substance use, mental…

Families attempt to resolve conflicts utilizing familiar and comfortable techniques. One common technique is blaming someone else’s behavior for how we are feeling. In other words, if they would only “_________”, then things would be better. What happens in this type of arguing is that the underlying issues are never resolved, and the attempts at resolution create more difficulties. Family members become frustrated at their inability to resolve the conflict and that creates another cycle of blame, anger and frustration. In…

Building Resilience In this session we will explore the importance of self-regulation as an essential part of building resilience. We will help families practice breathing techniques, as well as examine concepts such as timing, containment, and emotional processing. In addition, we will talk about labels anddiagnoses, examining how they may keep us focused on problems, rather than solutions.  We will also share tips for how to maintain our progress in building family resilience in spite of what other families or…