The Power of Presence: Counseling Clients with Chronic Illness
(Part 2 of 2 - See "Living in the Liminal: Understanding the Hidden Realities of Chronic Illness & Pain" for Part 1)
2.0 CEU's
Presented by Christina Scott, MEd, LPCC-S, CIMHP, ASDCS, ADHD-CCSP, NCC
Course CEDL.0170.2.0
This training builds upon the foundational knowledge of part one of this series, Living in the Liminal, to provide mental health professionals with practical skills for working with clients with chronic illness. We'll explore how to meet clients where they are by using empathy and validation to create a safe therapeutic space, which is critical for individuals who often feel unheard and misunderstood. The program will focus on adapting traditional therapeutic approaches to address the unique challenges of chronic illness, such as symptom unpredictability, fluctuating energy levels, and medical trauma. We will discuss actionable interventions designed to help clients navigate the emotional and relational aspects of their experience, guiding them toward making meaning of their journey and fostering a sense of empowerment. By the end of this training, participants will have a
comprehensive toolkit for providing compassionate, affirming, and effective care.
Learning Objectives:
- Evaluate how traditional therapeutic frameworks may need to be adapted to meet the unique needs of clients with chronic illness and pain, prioritizing flexibility and client-centered care.
- Develop and implement at least three specific interventions that address the psychosocial challenges of living with a chronic condition, such as identity shifts, grief, and managing fluctuating energy levels.
- Utilize validation and empathetic listening to meet clients where they are, helping them process the emotional toll of their condition while challenging internalized ableism and self-blame.
- Analyze how core concepts of Narrative Therapy, Positive Psychology, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) can be applied to help clients reframe their relationship with their chronic illness and pain.
2.0 hours of continuing education credit will be available to those who complete the entire course presentation, take and pass the post-test (70% of questions, at a minimum, must be answered correctly), and complete a course evaluation.
