The Nuts and Bolts of Initial Counseling Sessions

This CEU course is designed to guide mental health professionals through the foundational steps of initiating a counseling relationship, from setting up the initial session to developing a comprehensive treatment plan. The course will cover essential aspects of the therapeutic process, including informed consent, biopsychosocial assessments, mental status exams, goal-setting, and treatment planning.

• Interactive Discussion:
  The course will encourage an interactive approach, allowing participants to ask questions, share experiences, and discuss challenges related to initiating the counseling relationship and creating treatment plans.
• Case Studies:
  Real-world examples will be used to illustrate key concepts and to facilitate learning through practical application.
• Q&A Session:
  Participants will have the opportunity to discuss any concerns or questions related to starting the counseling relationship or implementing the discussed strategies.

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Understand the critical elements to prepare for in an initial counseling session.
2. Implement informed consent processes with clients effectively and ethically.
3. Conduct a comprehensive biopsychosocial assessment to inform treatment planning.
4. Complete a thorough mental status exam to assess the client’s mental health.
5. Set achievable goals with clients and develop a treatment plan tailored to their needs.

This CEU course offers both practical guidance and theoretical knowledge to help professionals build strong foundations for successful counseling relationships. Whether you're new to the field or looking to refresh your skills, this session is designed to enhance your ability to engage clients and provide effective, client-centered care.

Target Audience:
This course is ideal for mental health professionals, including social workers, counselors, marriage and family therapists, psychologists, and other practitioners. It is appropriate for professionals at any stage of their career, from beginners to seasoned practitioners.

Course Prerequisites:
No prerequisites are required. This course is designed for social workers and other mental health professionals at all experience levels who are looking to expand their knowledge on managing safety and ethics in their practice.

About the Presenter:
Vanessa Valles, LCSW-S is a seasoned mental health professional with over 22 years of experience. As the owner of a private and group practice, she has dedicated the past 17 years to educating and mentoring other professionals. Vanessa is the author of The Terrible, Super Sad Day, a children's book that serves as a clinical tool for helping professionals working with children who have experienced loss or trauma. She has held various roles in the mental health field, including administrator, clinical trainer, quality assurance officer, field instructor, and clinical supervisor, and has provided CEUs to hundreds of mental health practitioners. Her broad background combines clinical expertise with educational leadership, making her a trusted resource in both practical and theoretical aspects of counseling.

Host or Publisher A New Start Counseling & Vanessa Valles LCSW-S