Critical incidents are situations that occur outside of our normal frame of reference and challenge us to understand and cope with what has happened. Critical Incident Group Debriefing (CIGD) is a short-term group intervention process that focuses on an immediate event. CIGD is one of several methods that may be utilized to lessen the likelihood ... Read more

Want to learn how to ask better questions in the counselling room? This workshop explores the curiosity, skill, and artistry it takes to discern the what, where, when, and why of effective questions, and what can prevent you from asking them. You will learn how to develop quality, effective questions that move beyond what you ... Read more

This presentation uses client case reviews to help attendees understand how to create a neurodivergent-affirming practice. Attendees will be able to ask consultation-type questions to build awareness and skills. They will learn practical tips to enhance their practice, especially related to cultural competence and psychopharmacology. Hand-outs will be provided, as well as resources for further ... Read more

The ability to thrive and manage life’s difficulties is greatly influenced by our mental wellbeing from an early age. Children and youth need supports in their lives to help navigate the challenges that come along with mental health, and to connect them with the necessary support and services. This workshop provides a general overview of ... Read more

This workshop will cover information on addiction and substance use, including viewing substance use on a continuum, the self-medication hypothesis, substance use effects, how people make change, abstinence and harm reduction approaches, treatment options in Ontario, recovery concepts, and friends and family work. This course will cover core principles and practices that will enhance what ... Read more

To effectively respond to critical incidents (suicide, violence, etc.), schools, communities, and organizations need to plan ahead of time so they are prepared to respond to these unfortunate events. This training will focus on how to organize effectively and quickly at a time of high stress so that groups are better prepared to respond to ... Read more

Have you heard of the Patient Ombudsman? The OCO is pleased to welcome Ontario’s Patient Ombudsman, Craig Thompson to talk about what the office of the Patient Ombudsman is, what it does and what caregivers need to know about making health care complaints in Ontario. In this presentation, you will learn about: Our Speaker: Craig Thompson ... Read more

For those who work in a helping role, it can be very challenging when clients are vulnerable, stressed-out, or quick to engage in conflict. Complicating matters is that difficult dynamics in the relationship are often amplified by different styles of communicating. This workshop reviews what contributes to these challenges, including the intra-personal, inter-personal, and organizational ... Read more

Children and youth often face challenges when navigating school, extracurricular activities, social media, and relationships at home and school. As they mature, their brains and bodies move through many developmental changes that each bring about a unique set of challenges which can be overwhelming at times. Change is almost always stressful, and it is normal ... Read more

Working with hard to engage clients can be frustrating and challenging, even for seasoned clinicians. The challenge of working with younger clients in therapy can be further compounded by their fear of entering therapy, lack of control over the decision to attend therapy, feeling of being scapegoated for family problems, lack of motivation for treatment, ... Read more