Kristin Waters, PharmD, BCPS, BCPP
Webinar
Tuesday, June 17, TIME?
2 CECs

Dr. Kristin Waters, a clinical pharmacist in psychiatry and assistant clinical professor at the UConn School of Pharmacy will join us to examine current pharmacotherapy for Depression and Anxiety Disorders and Alcohol Use Disorder and Opioid Use Disorder. In the first half of the webinar, Dr. Waters will examine treatment for major depression and anxiety disorders which are among the most common psychiatric conditions affecting adults in the US. She will discuss the medications most commonly used in the management of major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder. While pharmacologic management may not be appropriate for all patients, it is important for social workers to have a basic understanding of these common medications.

The second hour of the webinar will focus on Alcohol Use Disorder and Opioid Use Disorder. Substance use disorders (SUDs) can have a major impact on the individual, their family, and the community. Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is the most common SUD in the United States, affecting approximately 30 million people. While opioid use disorder (OUD) is less common, the mortality rate is significant due to the risk of overdose and/or unsafe behaviors associated with use that can lead to further medical complications. Most people with SUDs do not seek treatment. However, medications used in the management of AUD and OUD can improve outcomes. These medications will be discussed during this webinar.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify medications that are considered first-line therapy for the management of major depressive disorder and the anxiety disorders discussed
• Describe the basic mechanism of action of antidepressant medications and other medications commonly used to manage anxiety
• Describe the most common side effects associated medications discussed including the black box warning for increased suicidal thoughts and behaviors for patients less than 25 years old
• Identify medications that are considered first-line therapy for the management of alcohol use disorder and opioid use disorders
• Describe logistical considerations surrounding how patients obtain medications used for OUD
• Discuss risks and benefits of pharmacologic strategies and role of medications in harm reduction

Antoinette Brown, LMSW
Saturday, May 17, 2025
9:30 am – 4:00 pm
In-person Seminar
5.5 CECs

Registration Fee: $125
10% discount for UConn SSW Alumni and Current SSW Field Instructors

This seminar is designed for School Social Workers and other education professionals seeking to enhance their understanding of group work as a powerful tool for supporting students’ social and emotional well-being. Participants will explore how group work fosters a sense of belonging, strengthens peer connections, and addresses academic, relational, and behavioral challenges. By creating a supportive group environment, School Social Workers and Group Work Facilitators play a crucial role in fostering a more conducive learning atmosphere for all students.

Key Takeaways:

• Practical strategies for planning and facilitating effective school-based groups.
• A deeper understanding of how group work meets students’ social-emotional needs.
• Tools for creating inclusive, trauma-informed group environments.
• Techniques to navigate common challenges in group dynamics.
• Increased confidence in using group work to support student success.

This interactive seminar will equip participants with the knowledge and skills needed to implement meaningful group interventions that foster student well-being and success in the school setting.

By the end of this seminar, participants will:

• Understand the role of group work in promoting students’ social-emotional growth and academic success.
• Learn strategies for intentional planning and preparation of group sessions.
• Identify different types of school-based groups and their specific purposes.
• Explore trauma-informed practices within the group setting.
• Develop skills to promote cultural competency and inclusiveness in group work.
• Engage in interactive learning activities that reflect real-world group dynamics.
• Discuss the organic nuances and challenges of facilitating school-based groups.

 

 

Qur-an Webb, MSW
Wednesday, May 14, 2025
Live Webinar
2 pm – 4 pm
2 CECs

Registration Fee: $50
10% discount for UConn SSW Alumni and Current SSW Field Instructors

This webinar explores the dynamic intersection of social work, sports, and societal issues, focusing on how athletics can serve as a platform for addressing social challenges. Participants will examine the mental health needs of athletes, the impact of race and gender in sports, and the crucial role of social work in supporting athletes, coaches, and officials.

Topics include mental health awareness and resilience-building and relationships within athletics. The training will also look into race while preparing participants to foster positive societal change through the lens of sports and social work.

Learning Objectives:
• Explore the role of social work in athletics and the fundamentals of mental health in sports
• Discussing the importance of fostering healthy relationships amongst the spectators, athletes’ coaches, and officials
• Explore diversity, inclusion, and strengthening self-worth and integrity in individual and team dynamics
• Develop strategies for managing goals, their impact on motivation, maintaining focus and achieving long-term success