Upcoming Training Events
Autism
Spectrum 101: Insights, Strategies and Support April 25, 2025, 9-11am
Register for Autism Spectrum 101: Insights, Strategies and Support
Join Jessica Antoniou, MA CCC-SLP/L, CAS and Melissa Mills, MAEL, MATL, LBS1 for an informative and engaging training session designed to provide a foundational understanding of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In this session, we will explore key insights into the autism spectrum, including common characteristics, challenges, and strengths that individuals with autism often experience. Through practical strategies and real-life examples, Jessica and Melissa will highlight effective ways to support individuals with autism in various settings, from education to the workplace. Whether you're a parent, educator, caregiver, or professional, this training offers valuable tools to foster communication, inclusion, and empowerment for individuals on the autism spectrum.
By the end of this session, participants will: ● Gain a deeper understanding of the autism spectrum and its diverse presentations ● Learn actionable strategies to enhance support and communication ● Discover practical resources for fostering an inclusive environment ● Feel more confident in building positive relationships with individuals on the autism spectrum
Join us for a dynamic and compassionate discussion that will leave you with the knowledge and tools to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those with autism.
Breaking the Stigma: Understanding Mental Health
May 30, 2025, 9-11am
Register for Breaking the Stigma: Understanding Mental Health
Join us for an engaging Mental Health Awareness Training designed to increase understanding, reduce stigma, and provide practical tools for supporting mental well-being. This session will cover key topics such as recognizing signs of mental health challenges, effective communication strategies, and resources for support. Ideal for individuals, professionals, and organizations committed to fostering a mentally healthy environment.
Objectives: • Recognize common signs and symptoms of mental health challenges. • Develop effective communication strategies to support individuals in distress. • Identify resources and coping strategies for promoting mental wellness.
What to Expect: • Interactive Discussions: Learn through real-life scenarios and group conversations. • Practical Strategies: Gain actionable tools to support mental wellbeing in personal and professional settings. • Expert Guidance: Facilitated by an experienced mental health professional. • Resource Sharing: Access helpful materials and local support options.
Strategies for Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth and Families in 2025
 June 27, 2025, 9-11am
Register for Strategies for Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth and Families in 2025
As we navigate a changing landscape, LGBTQ+ youth, parents and practitioners are navigating access to care and community. We welcome parents, youth workers, healthcare providers and community members to:
- Understand how to use affirming terminology
- Understand experiences of LGBTQ+ youth and adults in 2025
- Clarify rights and where to access affirming care
- Share resources and best practices
Carolyn Wahlskog, LCSW (she/they) is the Director of Operations and Programming at Youth Outlook, a youth services agency that works to meet the ever-evolving needs of LGBTQ+ youth and their families in northern Illinois. Additionally, Carolyn is the co-coordinator of Transformative Justice Law Project's Name Change Mobilization, serving trans folks across IL. She serves as an adjunct professor at Jane Addams College of Social Work at University of Illinois at Chicago. Carolyn works with educators, mental health professionals, and other youth workers to create safe, supportive and affirming policies and practices for working with queer and trans young people and their families.
West Suburban and Illinois LGBTQ+ Resource Guide, Created by Youth OutlookWest Suburban and Illinois LGBTQ+ Resource Guide, Created by Youth Outlook
Art in Therapy: Ethical Considerations for Non-Art Therapists
July 25, 2025, 9-11am
Register for Art in Therapy: Ethical Considerations for Non-Art Therapists
Art in Therapy: Ethical Considerations for Non-Art Therapists will help professionals who are interested in or are already incorporating art-making into their clinical work, as well as those interested in learning more about art therapy in practice.
Learning objectives: - A better understanding of the field of art therapy and the role of art in healing.
- Identify ethical issues and recognize key considerations when integrating art-making. - Recognize therapeutic limitations and complexities particularly when discussing and storing client art. - Increase confidence in your implementation of creative modalities in treatment. - Practical and effective exercises you can immediately integrate into your treatment approach.
For this training, please bring some paper and any art supplies of your choice! Use whatever feels comfortable for you—markers, colored pencils, paint, or anything else you enjoy creating with!
Peggy Carstensen, LCPC, ATR is an art therapist with 13 years of experience, holding a Master's in Art Therapy from Mount Mary University. She specializes in creativity-based techniques for trauma, with experience in inpatient, school, community, and private settings. Peggy also practices Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, Brainspotting, and traditional talk therapy. A published illustrator and mother of three, she is currently the Chief Clinical Operations Officer and clinical therapist at Graceful Therapy in Oswego, IL.
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