National Board of Forensic Evaluators, Inc. upcoming events

Testing for Forensic Populations ("On Demand" Workshop) (08 Apr 2020)

Wed, 08 Apr 2020 14:00:00 GMT

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Many mental health professionals want to conduct quality forensic and clinical evaluations, but most were under-trained in graduate school and require additional training in the administration and interpretation of psychological tests. This "on demand workshop" is a 40-hour introductory course in which attendees view video-recorded lectures of a live cohort of clinicians who trained with Dr. Harry Voulgarakis and Dr. Aaron Norton, experienced forensic evaluators. Attendees can interact with the presenters through email to ask questions, send homework assignments, and receive feedback to ensure that they understand the course material. All attendees who are licensed mental health professionals and who complete all 40 hours of the training course also receive a letter from Psychological Assessment Resources (PAR), one of the nation's largest test distributors, attesting to Level C test qualification status. Attendees may sign up for each phase individually, or they may sign up for the entire course (all four phases) to save $100.

Testing and assessment instruments have become the rule rather than the exception these days. Research and best practices have shown that objective testing is more accurate, accessible, and accepted in the courtroom as well as other forensic settings. Unfortunately, many practitioners are woefully under educated and trained on these valuable tools. For this reason, we have decided to develop and offer a comprehensive certification program to aid CFMHE’s become more adept, confident, and practiced at utilizing these instruments. The goal is ensure these tools are used appropriately, consistently, and in a manner that affords the practitioner as well as the decider the best possible information in any forensic mental health setting.

Fundamental to this course are explanations of theoretical concepts underlying testing and assessment. Content will include use of the scientific method as a basis for engaging in critical thinking and the evaluation of sources of information, a review of empirical studies in psychology to evaluate research findings and evaluate claims of reliability and validity, articulate controversial and ethical issues in psychological testing, use computer technology and appropriate software to complete assignments, and work effectively in small groups. In addition to discussion of theoretical concepts, Attendees will learn the history of psychological testing, learn how theories, principles and concepts are used in psychometric assessment and are applied in educational, clinical and employment settings, compute and interpret basic psychometric statistics, and create, pilot, analyze, and provide both a written report (in APA-style) and an oral presentation of the test development project.

Phase 1: Overview of Ethical and Professional Guidelines for Testing, Malingering, and Personality Testing (10 hours)

Phase 2: (Adult Focus) Substance Abuse, Risk Assessment, Anger, Psychopathy, and Sexual Violence (10 hours)

Phase 3: Intelligence and Adaptive Behavior Testing (10 hours)

Phase 4: (Child/Family Focus) Tests for Child Abuse, Sexual Abuse, School Issues, and Custody Evaluations (10 hours)

Click here to read a more detailed syllabus of course content.

Notes and Disclaimers: The recorded lectures comprise approximately 30 of the 40 hours. An additional 10 hours of reading materials and independent test administration and interpretation practice is included in the 40-hour course. Although completion of this workshop, in combination with a license to independently practice as a mental health professional, guarantees Level C testing qualification with PAR, it is ultimately the clinician's responsibility to ensure competency to administer and interpret any test or instrument. For example, this workshop provides an overview and demonstration of IQ testing, but clinicians should purchase a starter kit for an IQ test and complete practice administrations with appropriate supervision prior to using IQ tests in clinical settings.

Participants who attend the full course of training will receive a certificate from Psychological Assessment Resources, Inc. (PAR) attesting that the participant has met the standards for administering Class C tests. Also, although attendees are not required to purchase testing kits in order to successfully complete the program, those who elect to do so are eligible or a 20% discount with PAR.

About the Presenters

Dr. Harry Voulgarakis is a psychologist and behavior analyst licensed to practice in New York and California. He is also a nationally registered health service psychologist and holds board certifications in behavior analysis at the doctoral level, forensic mental health evaluation, and child custody evaluation.

After completing an internship at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Dr. Voulgarakis was awarded PhD in clinical psychology from Fielding Graduate University with concentrations in neuropsychology, health psychology, and parent-infant mental health, followed by two years of post-doctoral training in neuropsychological assessment. He also completed post-doctoral training at St. John’s University in Forensic Psychology. Dr. Voulgarakis draws on his background in education, has advanced and graduate- level training in law, taxation and finance, and behavioral economics. He has been retained as an expert evaluator and consultant by public, private, and state agencies across the United States and internationally.

Dr. Voulgarakis is an executive committee member of the New York State Psychological Association’s division of Forensic Psychology, sits on the editorial board for The Clinical Neuropsychologist, and serves as a guest reviewer for several other peer-reviewed journals and conferences. He has authored and co-authored over a dozen scientific and peer-reviewed papers and presented at conferences both nationally and internationally. Clinically, Dr. Voulgarakis specializes in pediatric health issues, neurodevelopmental disorders, behavioral and developmental neuropsychology, and issues in family law. He is a professor of special education and psychology at St. Joseph’s University, New York, and maintains a private practice in New York City and San Francisco.

Dr. Aaron Norton is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with certifications in addictions, alcohol and drug counseling, rehabilitation counseling, clinical mental health counseling, trauma treatment, forensic mental health evaluation, forensic behavioral analysis, and forensic psychometry.

He serves as executive director of the National Board of Forensic Evaluators, assistant professor of instruction at the University of South Florida Dept. of Mental Health Law & Policy, southern regional director, Ethics Committee liaison, and International Counseling Task Force chair for the American Mental Health Counselors Association, chair of the Government Relations Committee for the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association, and consulting editor for AMHCA’s The Advocate Magazine. He earned a BA in psychology, MA in rehabilitation and mental health counseling, and PhD in counselor education and supervision with a cognate in physiological psychology.

He authored or co-authored the forensic evaluation section of the AMHCA Standards for the Practice of Clinical Mental Health Counseling, the proposal for AMHCA’s Clinical Mental Health Specialist in Forensic Evaluation (CMHS-FE) credential, NBFE's analysis and position paper on counselors and psychological testing, NBFE's guide to laws and rules governing counselors and testing in the US, the DSM-5 to DSM-5-TR update article published in the American Counseling Association's Counseling Today magazine, and he has been published in several academic journals and professional magazines in the mental health professions. He served on the expert panel that created the standards and written exam for the Florida Certification Board’s Certified Telehealth Practitioner (CTP) credential.

He has 20 years of experience administering and interpreting psychological tests and measures in both clinical and forensic settings and in providing training and instruction on assessment and evaluation as an instructor and clinical supervisor, was awarded "Mental Health Counselor of the Year" by the American Mental Health Counselors Association in 2016, "Counselor Educator of the Year" by the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association in 2016, "Researcher of the Year" by the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association in 2019, and he was awarded AMHCA’s Public and Community Service Award in 2020.

The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) has been approved by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6189. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. NBFE is solely responsible for all aspects of the program.

The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content.

This workshop has been approved for 40 hours of continuing education (32 general hours, 4 domestic violence hours, and 4 ethics hours) with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling, CE Broker Tracking # 20-1174828 (Phase 1), 20-1176072 (Phase 2), 20-1176074 (Phase 3), and 20-1176094 (Phase 4). 20-1176094. 20-1176094. Note: Phases 1, 3, and 4 each contain 9.0 general hours and 1.0 hours ethics/professional boundaries, and Phase 2 includes 5.0 general hours, 1.0 hours ethics/professional boundaries, and 4.0 domestic violence hours. CE Broker Provider #50-12853.

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Infantile Autism (3.25 CEs CE-Broker Tracking No. 20-1249706 - CE Broker Provider No. 50-15823) (09 Apr 2020)

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 04:00:00 GMT

Description: This 4-hour webinar is presented in two parts: Part one will focus on delineating recent trends in describing the Autism Spectrum Disorder from early conceptual development of what Leo Kanner described as Infantile Autism. Part two will focus on a case study of treating Infantile Autism with music therapy, including actual video footage of a real case. This production was authorized by the biological parents of this 2-year-old child. They authorized this production to assist licensed professional counselors to help in the identification, diagnoses and specialized treatment of autism spectrum disorder. In addition to this 2-hour this introductory webinar, you will have the opportunity to observe 2-hours of genuinely effective therapeutic techniques pioneered by Norman E Hoffman, PhD. The demonstration you will see was the logical result of original investigations in the field of Music Therapy. In the words of clinical psychologist Dr. Robert K. Alsofrom, "After observing therapeutic techniques come and go for twenty- five year, I look upon works which claim to break new ground with a great deal of reservation. Most of them turn out to be rediscoveries of the wheel under a new name. In comparison, Dr. Hoffman does indeed present a new and genuinely effective therapeutic vehicle."

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

Develop an understanding of their intrapsychic world
Differentiate between Infantile Autism and the Autism Spectrum Disorder
Gain insight into unorthodox treatment modalities
Increase knowledge of Infantile Autism

ABOUT THE PRESENTER:

Norman Hoffman, PhD, EdD, LMHC, LMFT,

CFMHE, CCCE, CFBA, CFP, CSFDE

A man who saw the potential, an innovator, pushing the boundaries to advance the cause of licensed professional counselor in the field of forensic mental health. He had the vision, the success in his field, sometimes overcoming great challenges to pave the way for those seeking status and professional recognition in a field of forensic mental health that has in the past been inaccessible.
Dr. Hoffman is considered a pioneer with his passion and creativity to develop the pattern for those who pursue a role as an expert forensic mental health expert witness, having founded the national Board of Forensic Evaluators, created the Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluator (CFMHE) credential, developed the Hoffman Organicity Test (HOT) to differentiate between schizophrenia and other organic brain disorders.
Dr. Hoffman developed and validated the Child & Adolescent Forensic Screening Inventory (CAFSI), meticulously designed to support professionals in conducting thorough and effective clinical interviews with children and adolescents within forensic contexts, ensuring that critical information is gathered accurately and efficiently.
Today, as Clinical Director of the Counseling and Psychotherapy Center in Ormond Beach, Florida, Dr. Hoffman continues to break through conventional barriers to provide families with the help and guidance they need. But he has not forgotten his musical foundation.
He credits music with inspiring his collaborative approach to working with parents and professionals, and he continues to perform and write the jazz that started it all.

COST:

$40 for members (including CFMHEs, CFMHE applicants/candidates, and members of all organizations that officially partner with NBFE (see www.nbfe.net/partners for full listing)

$60 for non-members

CONTINUING EDUCATION INFORMATION:

The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) has been approved by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6189. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. NBFE is solely responsible for all aspects of the program.

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association (AMHCA).

For licensed professionals in Florida, this webinar has been approved for 3.25hours of continuing education with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling, CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1249706 (CE Broker Provider # 50-15823).

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

The Forensic Mental Health Consultant: Assisting the Attorney: Understanding & Discrediting the Forensic Mental Health Evaluation (2.0 CEs CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1261851 CE Broker Provider No. 50-15823 (09 Apr 2020)

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 16:00:00 GMT

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On-Demand Asynchronous

Description

This 2-hour webinar will provide forensic mental health professionals, attorneys, and judges with an overview of the forensic mental health consultant’s role in critiquing the work of forensic mental health expert witnesses, potentially discrediting or disqualifying the testimony of opposing counsel’s expert(s). Participants will learn to apply forensic mental health standards, recognizing the faults and deficiencies in the reports of undertrained “experts” in the forensic mental health arena. Participants will also be provided with a checklist of questions to answer when reviewing the work of other expert witnesses.

Learning Objectives

Objective 1: Define the role of a forensic mental health consultant in reviewing the word of expert witnesses.

Objective 2: Identify essential components of a forensic mental health evaluation.

Objective 3: Identify the bases for opinions offered by forensic mental health expert witnesses.

Presenter(s)

Norman Hoffman, Ph.D., Ed.D., LMHC, LMFT, CFMHE, CCCE, CFBA, CFP, CSFDE

A A man who saw the potential, an innovator, pushing the boundaries to advance the cause of licensed professional counselor in the field of forensic mental health. He had the vision, the success in his field, sometimes overcoming great challenges to pave the way for those seeking status and professional recognition in a field of forensic mental health that has in the past been inaccessible.

Dr. Hoffman is considered a pioneer with his passion and creativity to develop the pattern for those who pursue a role as an expert forensic mental health expert witness, having founded the national Board of Forensic Evaluators, created the Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluator (CFMHE) credential, developed the Hoffman Organicity Test (HOT) to differentiate between schizophrenia and other organic brain disorders.

Dr. Hoffman developed and validated the Child & Adolescent Forensic Screening Inventory (CAFSI), meticulously designed to support professionals in conducting thorough and effective clinical interviews with children and adolescents within forensic contexts, ensuring that critical information is gathered accurately and efficiently.

Today, as Clinical Director of the Counseling and Psychotherapy Center in Ormond Beach, Florida, Dr. Hoffman continues to break through conventional barriers to provide families with the help and guidance they need. But he has not forgotten his musical foundation.

Richard Stride, Psy.D., MBA, LPC, LMHC, CFMHE

Richard J. Stride, Psy.D., MBA, LPC, LMHC has been providing forensic mental health services to attorneys and courts since 1996. He has been an expert witness in over 100 cases and consulted in over 150 cases. He is the current CEO at Cascade Mental Health Care, Centralia, WA.

Aaron Norton, Ph.D., LMHC, LMFT, CFMHE, CFBA, CFP

Dr. Aaron Norton is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy with certifications in addictions, trauma treatment, forensic evaluation, rehabilitation counseling, psychometry, telehealth, and virtual reality therapy. He is the Executive Director of the National Board of Forensic Evaluators, Assistant Professor of Instruction at the University of South Florida's Department of Mental Health Law and Policy, Southern Regional Director and Ethics Committee Liaison for the American Mental Health Counselors Association, and Chair of the Government Relations Committee for the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association. Dr. Norton co-authored the forensic evaluation section of the American Mental Health Counselors Association's "Standards for the Practice of Clinical Mental Health Counseling" and assisted with revision of the forensic section of the "2020 AMHCA Code of Ethics." He has 20 years of clinical and forensic experience at Integrity Counseling, Inc., was awarded Mental Health Counselor of the Year by the American Mental Health Counselors Association and Counselor Educator of the Year by the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association in 2016, Researcher of the Year by Florida Mental Health Counselors Association and Public and Community Service Award by the American Mental Health Counselors Association in 2020, and has been published in several social science journals and professional magazines in clinical mental health counseling and related disciplines (e.g., American Journal of Orthopsychiatry, Psychotherapy and Politics International, Addiction Professional, Journal of Gay and Lesbian Social Services, Journal of Individual Psychology, Journal of Creativity in Mental Health, The Advocate Magazine, Counselor Magazine, Counseling Today, InSession Magazine).

Cost
$50 for NBFE members (i.e., CFMHEs and CFMHE applicants/candidates) and, for members of our partnering organizations please see Professional Partners for current listing)
$70 for Non-members/$70 for Attorneys.

Continuing Education Information

ACEP No. 6189

Florida CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1261851

CE Broker Provider No. 50-15823

On-Demand Asynchronous

The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) has been approved by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6189. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. NBFE is solely responsible for all aspects of the program. NBFE is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content. NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

This workshop has been approved for 2 general hour(s) with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling. CE Broker Tracking # 20-1261851 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

This webinar has been approved for 2.5 general Continuing Legal Education (CLE) hours (2.0 hours Mental Health and Wellness, 0.5 hours Ethics) with the Florida Bar Association, Provider #105538, Reference #2405782N, Intermediate Level, 8/1/24-2/28/25

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

The Forensic Evaluator’s Guide to Parental Reunification (6.5 CEs CE Broker Tracking #20-958724 CE Broker Provider #50-15823) (09 Apr 2022)

Sat, 09 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT

On-Demand

The Forensic Evaluator's Guide to Parental Reunification

6.5 CEs

Description

According to the National Center for State Courts (NCSC), parental alienation is "a strategy whereby one parent intentionally displays to the child unjustified negativity aimed at the other parent. The purpose of this strategy is to damage the child's relationship with the other parent and to turn the child's emotions against that other parent.” Forensic mental health evaluators involved in parenting/child custody cases should have a working knowledge of parental alienation, but knowledge of the phenomenon is not sufficient by itself. Evaluators must also have a working knowledge of how parental alienation is addressed, including the phenomena of parental reunification. This 6.5-hour workshop aims to provide this knowledge base.

Presenters will include experienced child custody evaluators, a judge, an attorney practicing family law, and a professional family coach.

The purpose of this training is to aid the professional in identifying when alienation is likely to occur, which parent is responsible, and how to address these parental alienation. Additionally, participants will learn about what judges and attorneys are looking for in terms of recommendations for addressing parental alienation.

Parents who are victims in coercive controlling situations often feel overwhelmed, uncertain, exhausted, and filled with significant self-doubt. They often feel as if they are working against the court system. Using the latest research and cutting-edge technology, we have developed specific and direct ways to teach these parents how to respond to the controlling parent to mitigate/limit problems for the children, as opposed to being baited and adding to the maelstrom of conflict. Utilizing tools to monitor and analyze communications have been effective in helping the families break the cycle, at times by proving to the court the alienating parent must not have unfettered access to manipulate the child unless or until the behaviors change.

Learning Objectives

Identify signs of parental alienation.

Provide appropriate recommendations for parental reunification.

Answer questions posed by judges and attorney with respect to parental alienation and reunification therapy.

Define, discuss, identify, and understand coercive control and coercive controlling language/behaviors.

Identify communication examples and types that identify coercive control.

Understand current research on coercive control and its impacts on families.

About the Presenters and Panelists

Gina Loratelli

A proud lifelong resident of Northern California, Gina attended Ripon schools in her early years and received her Bachelor's degree from Stanislaus State in 2001. While her area of study was economics, her focus within the major was consumer behaviors. Gina has always been fascinated by human behavior which has led her to her true passion of helping families and children achieve peace in this crazy chaotic world. Gina spent many years in sales and marketing positions before transitioning into mental health in 2016. She is not a licensed therapist, but has earned several mental health certifications and has many hours of volunteer and training experience. Experiential expertise is what makes her coaching so special. Gina has experience and training with issues of family violence, custody issues, family courts, and supervised visitation.

Judge Wilensky

Judge Wilensky was the Circuit Court Judge presiding over Family Law Division FM-D in Duval County, Florida. In Clay County he presided over the Dependency Division, Circuit Civil Division, Family Law Division, Domestic Violence and appeals from County Court.

As an attorney he concentrated his practice in Family Law and Mediation, and served as a Special Magistrate. He mediated approximately 1000 family law cases and was approved by the Supreme Court as a Primary Trainer for Family Mediation Certification. He was given the highest peer rating ( A.V.) by Martindale-Hubbell for competence and ethics. Judge Wilensky is the past President of the Florida Family Law American Inn of Court in Jacksonville and is a Master in the Inn. He has been a lecturer at Family Law CLE seminars and workshops, locally and at the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers Florida conference and at Florida Coastal School of Law.

Judge Wilensky currently serves on the Board of Directors of Hope Haven in Jacksonville, Florida.

Kim Bannister, Esq.

Kim Bannister is a private attorney with a practice centering on family law, domestic violence, dependency and probate. She is a Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Law Mediator. She is the former managing attorney for the family law division of Community Legal Services of Mid-Florida, Inc. (CLSMF). During her tenure at CLSMF, she managed seven attorneys and support staff in twelve counties across Central Florida and was named Outstanding Supervisor of the Year.

Kim is also actively involved in a variety of community and professional organizations. She is the current President of the Volusia County Bar Association and a former Executive Board member. She is a past member of the Board of Directors for the Volusia Flagler PACE Center for Girls, serving for six years, and a past member of the Junior League of Daytona Beach.

She has also served as a two-term President as well as Vice President and Board Member for the Volusia Flagler Association for Women Lawyers, and served on the State Board for the Florida Association for Women Lawyers. She has served on the steering committee for the formation of Sally’s Safe Haven Visitation Center in Flagler County. Ms. Banister is a past volunteer with the Boy Scouts of America and served in leadership with the Girl Scouts of America for over seven years.

Dr. Tommy Black

Dr. Black is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been in private practice since 1998. Currently he serves as a member of the Georgia Composite Board for Professional Counselors, Social Workers, and Marriage & Family Therapists. He also serves as the Chair of the Rules Committee and on the Advisory Panel for the National Board of Forensic Evaluators.

Dr. Black has extensive experience and training in Cognitive-Behavior Therapy, REBT, and DBT. He works with a myriad of life issues but has particular expertise in Grief/Loss, Depression, Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, Impulse Control Issues, Relationship difficulties, and Adjustment Difficulties.

Michael Holler

Michael Holler is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, a National Certified Counselor, a Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Forensic Mental Health Evaluator, a Certified Child Custody Evaluator, a Qualified Parenting Coordinator, a Qualified Clinical Supervisor and a Certified Family and County Mediator. He serves as Chair of the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association (FMHCA) Ethics Committee. Michael has a private practice in Tavernier in the Florida Keys. Michael has been working with individuals, families, couples and organizations for over 25 years. Michael is also a Neurofeedback provider.

Michael has worked in inpatient psychiatric, community mental health and private practice settings; Michael has worked as an adjunct professor in psychology at Florida Keys Community College. Michael was President of the Upper Keys Interagency Council in 1997. Michael was the first Intensive Onsite Services Counselor in the State of Florida.

Dr. Norman Hoffman

Dr. Hoffman is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, and Founder and President of the National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE). He is an experienced expert witness, forensic examiner, author, and jazz musician. Dr. Hoffman developed the Hoffman Organicity Test (HOT), which aids clinicians in differentiating between organic brain disorders, non-organic disorders, and psychotic disorders. Dr. Hoffman began his work with the Devereux Foundation in 1963, specializing as a music therapist for children. In 1969, he then completed a one-year clinical internship at the Menninger Memorial Hospital in Kansas. That experience led to his first book, Hear the Music! A New Approach to Mental Health. His work in the field of organic brain damage led to The Hoffman Organicity Test.

Dr. Aaron Norton

Dr. Norton is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy serving as Executive Director of the National Board of Forensic Evaluators, Adunct Instructor at the University of South Florida, Southern Regional Director for the American Mental Health Counselors Association, Chair of the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association's Government Relations Committee, and the liaison between the American Mental Health Counselors Association's Ethics Committee and Board of Directors.

He has nearly 20 years of clinical and forensic experience in assessment and psychotherapy, was awarded Mental Health Counselor of the Year by the American Mental Health Counselors Association and Counselor Educator of the Year by the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association in 2016, Researcher of the Year by Florida Mental Health Counselors Association in 2020, and has been published in several social science journals and professional magazines in clinical mental health counseling.

Cost

$80 for NBFE members (i.e., CFMHEs and CFMHE applicants/candidates) and, for members of our partnering organizations (see Professional Partners for current listing)

$110 for Non-members

Continuing Education Information

This webinar has been approved for 6.5 general contact hour(s) with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling, CE Broker Tracking #20-958724 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823

NBFE is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content.

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy

2022 Cannabis Update, Part 1: Cannabis Basics, Adverse Effects, Medicinal Uses (3 CEs CE Broker TrackingNo. 20-909415 - CE Broker Provider No. 50-15823). (10 Apr 2022)

Sun, 10 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT

Description

Cannabis is now at least partially legalized in all but 11 of the 50 United States of America, though it remains illegal under federal law. Cannabis use is a politicized issue, and with a growing “Big Cannabis” industry on one hand and a treatment industry in which cannabis use disorders are the second most common diagnosis on the other, how are busy forensic evaluators and treatment professionals who work “in the trenches” of the American healthcare system supposed to sort through the increasingly massive and contradictory assortment of information on cannabis to develop a balanced perspective?

NBFE provided a webinar on this topic in 2018, but it's time to get updated with the past four years of research! This webinar was designed to provide an overview of recent research on cannabis use trends, adverse health effects, and the medicinal use of cannabis.

Note: This webinar is connected to a two-part series. Click here to register for 2022 Cannabis Update, Part 2: Evaluation and Clinical Decision-Making.

Learning Objectives

Participants will articulate a basic understanding of how cannabis works in the brain.
Participants will identify trends in cannabis use among teens and adults in the United States.
Participants will review current research on the effects of cannabis on the human brain and body.
Participants will review current research on medicinal use of marijuana.

Cost

$40 for NBFE members (i.e., CFMHEs and CFMHE applicants/candidates) and, for members of our partnering organizations (see Professional Partners for current listing)

$50 for non-members

About the Presenter

Aaron Norton, Ph.D., LMHC, LMFT, CFMHE, CFBA

Dr. Aaron Norton is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy serving as Executive Director of the National Board of Forensic Evaluators, Adjunct Instructor at the University of South Florida, Southern Regional Director for the American Mental Health Counselors Association, and Past-President of the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association. He has nearly 20 years of clinical and forensic experience at Integrity Counseling, Inc., was awarded Mental Health Counselor of the Year by the American Mental Health Counselors Association and Counselor Educator of the Year by the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association in 2016, Researcher of the Year by Florida Mental Health Counselors Association in 2020, and has been published in several social science journals and professional magazines in clinical mental health counseling. Dr. Norton developed the Decision Matrix for CMHCs Encountering Medical Marijuana Use in Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment Settings.

Continuing Education Information

This webinar has been approved for 3.0 general contact hour(s) with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling.

CE Broker Tracking #20-909415 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

NBFE is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content.

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

2022 Cannabis Update, Part 2: Evaluation and Clinical Decision-Making (3 CEs) (10 Apr 2022)

Sun, 10 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT

Description

Cannabis is now at least partially legalized in all but 11 of the 50 United States of America, though it remains illegal under federal law. Given the increase in medical cannabis use, how do forensic evaluators and treatment professionals decide what to do when a client presents with a medical cannabis card?

NBFE provided a webinar on this topic in 2018, but it's time to get updated on the past four years of research! This 3-hour webinar provides an overview of how to differentiate between recreational, medicinal, and disordered use of cannabis, and how to make sound clinical decisions when clients present with medical cannabis cards.

Note: This webinar is connected to a two-part series. Click here to register for 2022 Cannabis Update, Part 1: Cannabis Basics, Adverse Effects, Medicinal Uses.

Learning Objectives

Participants will identify signs and symptoms of cannabis use disorders.
Participants will utilize a decision matrix for addressing clients who present in treatment settings with medical marijuana cards.
Participants will collaborate with other healthcare professionals to maximize clinical outcomes for clients presenting with medical cannabis cards.

Cost

$40 for NBFE members (i.e., CFMHEs and CFMHE applicants/candidates) and, for members of our partnering organizations (see Professional Partners for current listing)

$50 for non-members

About the Presenter

Aaron Norton, Ph.D., LMHC, LMFT, CFMHE, CFBA

Continuing Education Information

This webinar has been approved for 3.0 general contact hour(s) with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling, and the Florida Board of Psychology, CE Broker Tracking #20-912987 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

NBFE is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content.

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Evaluation of Competency: Tools & Process (2 CEs CE Broker Tracking No. 20-923993 - CE Broker Provider No. 50-15823) (10 Apr 2022)

Sun, 10 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT

On-Demand

Description

A basic understandable approach to conducting & producing reports on competency to proceed to trial. The training will list & discuss the process of conducting a good thorough evaluation and preparation of a useful & focused report for the court, including what instruments to have in your toolbox and a recommended approach & paradigm.

Learning Objectives:

List and determine which test instruments are appropriate for this process and when to use them.
List the components of a good functional report on competency.
List and apply the criteria for determining competency.
Summarize the components of the closing/summary and how to assist the court without usurping the role of the judge.

About the Presenter:

Michael Holler, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC, CFMHE, CCCE

Michael Holler is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, a National Certified Counselor, a Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Forensic Mental Health Evaluator, a Certified Child Custody Evaluator, a Qualified Parenting Coordinator, a Qualified Clinical Supervisor and a Certified Family and County Mediator. He serves as Chair of the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association (FMHCA) Ethics Committee. Michael has a private practice in Tavernier in the Florida Keys. Michael has been working with individuals, families, couples and organizations for over 25 years. Michael is also a Neurofeedback provider.

Michael has worked in inpatient psychiatric, community mental health and private practice settings; Michael has worked as an adjunct professor in psychology at Florida Keys Community College. Michael was President of the Upper Keys Interagency Council in 1997. Michael was the first Intensive Onsite Services Counselor in the State of Florida.

Cost:

$40 for members, including Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluators (CFMHEs), CFMHE applicants/candidates, and members of all associations partnering with NBFE (see Professional Partners link for full listing)
$60 for non-members
NBFE Member (Free-Complimentary Attendance) Please see registration page for more details.

Continuing Education:

The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) has been approved by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6189. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. NBFE is solely responsible for all aspects of the program.

NBFE is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content.

This workshop has been approved for 2.0 hours of continuing education with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling and the Florida Board of Psychology, CE Broker Tracking # 20-923993 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Child Custody Evaluation Workshop (8 CEs) (11 Apr 2022)

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT

BECOME A CERTIFIED CHILD CUSTODY EVALUATOR!

Child custody evaluation is a challenging, rewarding, interesting, lucrative, and impactful specialization with the forensic mental health evaluation field. Evaluators must not only be knowledgeable of mental health, diagnosis, and evaluation, but must also be experts both in adult and child pathology, healthy childhood development, parenting, and family systems.

This workshop is an "on demand" recording. After viewing the workshop recording, attendees complete a webinar evaluation survey and forward it to NBFE for continuing education credit.

The workshop was designed to aid licensed mental health professionals (i.e., clinical mental health counselors, clinical social workers, clinical and counseling psychologists, marriage and family therapists, psychiatrists, and psychiatric nurse practitioners) in expanding their knowledge in the specialty area of child custody.

For experienced evaluators, this workshop may serve as a helpful review, sharpen your skill set, enhance your CV, or provide you with an update.

For evaluators who are new to this speciality, this workshop will help you expand your knowledge in child custody and is part of the certification process to become a Certified Child Custody Evaluator (CCCE) credential. In addition to attending this workshop, evaluators interested in the CCCE credential must already be a Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluator (CFMHE), complete a Child Custody Evaluators Certification Training Homestudy ($299) and pass the post-homestudy test. If you are not a CFMHE but wish to obtain the CCCE credential, you may attend this workshop now but will need to obtain the CFMHE credential before you can be eligible for the CCCE credential.

WORKSHOP GOALS:

Develop skills and techniques to evaluate parents involved in child custody matters.
Develop an understanding of the dynamics involved in family custody conflicts.
Become skilled at writing a “bullet proof” forensic child custody report.
Develop an understanding of the importance of a contract and fee agreement.

OBJECTIVES:

At the end of the workshop, the participants will have the opportunity to discuss child custody issues and conflicts that may arise
Avoidance of disqualification and impeachment during testimony and disposition.
Increase knowledge of child custody State Statutes.

ABOUT THE PRESENTER:

Norman Hoffman, Ph.D., Ed.D., LMHC, LMFT, CFMHE, CCCE, CFBA

Dr. Norman Hoffman is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, and Founder and President of the National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE). He is an experienced expert witness, forensic examiner, author, and jazz musician. Dr. Hoffman developed the Hoffman Organicity Test (HOT), which aids clinicians in differentiating between organic brain disorders, non-organic disorders, and psychotic disorders. Dr. Hoffman began his work with the Devereux Foundation in 1963, specializing as a music therapist for children. In 1969, he then completed a one-year clinical internship at the Menninger Memorial Hospital in Kansas. That experience led to his first book, Hear the Music! A New Approach to Mental Health. His work in the field of organic brain damage led to The Hoffman Organicity Test.

COST OF WORKSHOP:

The cost for this workshop is $200.

The full cost for the entire CCCE credential process, which includes both this workshop ($200) and the 5-hour homestudy and exam ($75), is $275.

CONTINUING EDUCATION INFORMATION:

The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) has been approved by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6189. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. NBFE is solely responsible for all aspects of the program.

This workshop has been approved for 8 hours of continuing education (6 general hours, 1 domestic violence hour, and 1 hour of ethics/professional boundaries) with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling, CE Broker Tracking # 20-591279 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Introduction to Comprehensive Psychosexual Evaluations (2 CEs CE Broker Tracking No. 20-658341 - CE Broker Provider No. 50-15823) (11 Apr 2022)

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT

This 2-hour webinar provides an overview of best practices for evidence-based psychosexual evaluations.

More and more, mental health professionals are asked to complete psychosexual evaluations in order to determine risk, safety, and appropriate treatment options. The courts are turning to professionals to answer these questions in family, juvenile, and criminal court. It is important to understand what exactly we can do to inform these decisions.

Learning Objectives

Participants will learn why psychosexual evaluations are important.
Participants will learn how psychosexual evaluations are used by the courts.
Participants will learn varied tools to inform their psychosexual evaluations.
Participants will learn limitations to psychosexual evaluations.

Cost

$20 for members (CFMHEs, applicants, and candidates)
$20 for members of partnering organizations (see Professional Partners page for a complete list).
$30 for non-members.

About the Presenter

Tommy Black, Ph.D., LMHC, LPC, CFMHE

https://www.darseyblackandassociates.com

Dr. Tommy Black is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been in private practice since 1998. Currently he serves as a member of the Georgia Composite Board for Professional Counselors, Social Workers, and Marriage & Family Therapists. He also serves as the Chair of the Rules Committee and on the Advisory Panel for the National Board of Forensic Evaluators.

Dr. Black has extensive experience and training in Cognitive-Behavior Therapy, REBT, and DBT. He works with a myriad of life issues but has particular expertise in Grief/Loss, Depression, Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, Impulse Control Issues, Relationship difficulties, and Adjustment Difficulties.

Continuing Education Information

This workshop has been approved for 2 contact hours with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling, CE Broker Tracking # 20-658341 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Mass Media Crisis Intervention: How Counselors Can Partner with Media to Stabilize People After Community Shootings (1 CE • CE Broker Tracking # 20-596358 • ACEP No.6189) (12 Apr 2022)

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT

Description

Terrorist attacks, mass shootings, school shootings and community violence have drastically increased, leading to a spike in PTSD, anxiety disorders, panic attacks and depression. The rapid increase in traumatic events create an opportunity for trained mental health professionals to join with media to provide recovery information to help the general public. This interactive session will equip you with what you need to do in partnering with media, (radio, television, print or Internet), in order to achieve a positive outcome. You will learn how to work with the media before, during and after a critical incident with a powerful communication model that has been successfully used to empower people with critical incident recovery information. An interactive workbook will be given to each participant to enhance this media training experience.

Learning Objectives:

Objective 1 1. Plan out a community mental health response to rapidly respond when future traumatic incident occur

Objective 2 2. Match your most effective media communication style to the type of community trauma where you can make the greatest difference

Objective 3 3. Evaluate how partnering with media can rapidly stabilize mental health in your community after a mass shooting or critical incident

About the Presenter:

Dwight Bain is a trusted media expert in clinical practice since 1984. He has given over 1500 media interviews on trauma recovery after crisis events and is quoted in over 100 newspapers/websites including: Washington Post, New York Times, Chicago Tribune, Atlanta Journal, Orlando Sentinel, Miami Herald, Newsday, FoxBusiness.com & MSNBC.com. He has spoken to over 4000 groups, including the US Army, US Navy, Toyota, Disney, Florida Hospital, Orlando Health, IRS, Florida Department of Education, American Heart Association, American Counseling Association, International Critical Incident Stress Foundation and the Global Congress on Terrorism after the 9/11 attacks. He has 30 years of experience providing critical incident stress management and mental health disaster response services in the community."

This webinar has been approved for 1 hour of continuing education with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling, Florida Board of Psychology, CE Broker Tracking # 20-596358 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823). NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association. The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) has been approved by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6189. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. NBFE is solely responsible for all aspects of the program.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

The Psychology of School Shooters (1 CE • CE Broker Tracking # 20-613139 • ACEP No.6189) (12 Apr 2022)

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT

What makes some people 'snap' into these acts of violence? Do you know the underlying psychological patterns that could identify how to intervene? This presentation will answer these questions as well as equip you with a comprehensive guide on how to manage a community shooting for the survivors.

Learning Objectives:

Understand the underlying psychological patterns of shooters from a comprehensive analysis of every major school shooting over the last 50 years
Implement tested crisis management counseling strategies to use during a school or community shooting for rapid stabilization of the survivors
Intervene with potentially dangerous situations in a way that protects the safety of practitioners in keeping their school, or their children’s school safe

About the Presenter:

Dwight Bain is a Nationally Certified Counselor in practice since 1984. Bain is a trusted media resource who has been interviewed on over 500 radio and television stations; as well as quoted in over 100 newspapers/websites including: New York Times, Washington Post, Chicago Tribune, Atlanta Journal, Orlando Sentinel, Miami Herald, Newsday, FoxBusiness.com & MSNBC.com.

"Dwight Bain is one of the most creative communicators in the country. He is a dynamic man with a real sense of the needs of people."

~ John Maxwell, New York Times bestselling author

Continuing Education:

The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) has been approved by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6189. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. NBFE is solely responsible for all aspects of the program.

This workshop has been approved for 1 hour of continuing education with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling and the Florida Board of Psychology, CE Broker Tracking # 20-613139 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

How to Conduct Quality Substance Abuse Evaluations (2 General CEs • CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1294095 • ACEP No.6189) (12 Apr 2022)

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT

Substance use disorders (SUDs) are common, affecting at least 1 of 3 adult Americans at some point in their lives. One of the many characteristics of SUDs that makes them unique is that the nature of the addictive process is such that denial, minimization, and lack of insight are a natural component of the development of the disorder. Accordingly, clients often deny, minimize, rationalize, and under-report, both intentionally and unintentionally, making clinical and forensic evaluations very challenging. Additionally, there are many incentives for clients to avoid full disclosure, because the stakes are often so high (e.g., child custody evaluations, employment evaluations, etc.).

In spite of these challenges, there are many strategies and techniques that evaluators can use to differentiate fact from fiction, arriving at a solid and defensible conclusion that the clinician can feel confident with. This webinar was designed to provide you with those strategies.

Learning Objectives:

Identify the diagnostic criteria for substance use disorders, and apply the criteria in a case scenario.
Learn several questions that can be asked to determine if a client meets diagnostic criteria.
Identify tests that identify subtle attributes of SUDs and have built-in validity scales to detect defensiveness, denial, and inconsistencies.
Learn to use collateral sources for additional information, and identify what to look for when reviewing those sources to help determine diagnoses and treatment needs.
Explore the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) treatment criteria, and learn how to apply the criteria to the data obtained from the biopsychosocial assessment to determine a client's specific treatment needs.

About the Presenter

Aaron Norton is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with certifications in addictions, alcohol and drug counseling, rehabilitation counseling, clinical mental health counseling, forensic mental health evaluation, and forensic behavioral analysis. He is recognized by the American Mental Health Counselors Association as a Diplomate and Clinical Mental Health Specialist in Substance Abuse and Co-Occurring Disorders. He serves as Executive Director of the National Board of Forensic Evaluators, a national not-for-profit board officially endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association that provides training, certification, and professional advocacy for licensed mental health professionals specializing in forensic mental health evaluation. He is an Adjunct Instructor at the University of South Florida's College of Behavioral and Community Sciences as well as a doctoral candidate in the Counselor Education and Supervision program at USF. He serves as Southern Regional Director for the American Mental Health Counselors Association and President-Elect and Chair of Education, Training Standards, and Continuing Education for the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association. He also works in a private practice specializing in both therapy and forensic and clinical evaluation, as well as providing clinical supervision to mental health counselor and marriage and family therapist interns as a Qualified Supervisor. He has more than 15 years of experience in the counseling profession. He was awarded Mental Health Counselor of the Year by the American Mental Health Counselors Association and Counselor Educator of the Year by the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association in 2016 and has been published in Addiction Professional, American Journal of Orthopsychiatry, Journal of Gay and Lesbian Social Services, and The Advocate Magazine.

Continuing Education Information

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

How to Use Free Online Assessment Measures for Mental Health Evaluations (1 CE • CE Broker Tracking # 20-642629 • ACEP No.6189) (12 Apr 2022)

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT

When you visit your primary care physician for an annual exam or to address a physical complaint, you aren't asked a question about every symptom of every known biomedical condition, or you'd be there for days or weeks! Instead, your PCP generally asks you a small number of screening questions. If you answer "yes" to one of these questions, the physician knows to move on to a 2nd or perhaps even 3rd level of questions that narrows the focus to a smaller cluster of potential problems or disorders, eventually (hopefully) arriving at a very precise and specific diagnosis.

The same process applies to mental health professionals conducting mental health evaluations. Fortunately, the American Psychiatric Association (APA), upon release of the 5th edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) and the subsequent text revision of the DSM-5 (DSM-5-TR), published a system of free online assessment measures, including Level 1 and Level cross cutting symptoms measures, severity specifier questionnaires, a cultural formulation interview, personality assessment measures, and disability assessment measures, all of which can be used by mental health professionals to narrow focus to a specific and refined diagnosis.

In this 1-hour webinar, you will be introduced to these online assessment measures and shown how to use them. Whether you are a therapist working in a therapeutic setting or a forensic evaluator hoping to supplement a more advanced testing battery with tools that help you refine your diagnosis during a clinical interview, this webinar ought to equip you with several helpful tools. You will also be introduced to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration's online screening tools.

Learning Objectives:

Learn how to use Level 1 and Level 2 cross cutting symptom measures and severity specifier questionnaires posted on the APA's DSM-5-TR website.
Learn how to use the cultural formulation interview, World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS 2.0), and personality assessment measures posted on the APA's DSM-5-TR website.
Locate several other free screening tools on SAMHSA's website for a variety of clinical focus areas.
Identify ethical considerations and limitations related to the use of the above measures.

About the Presenter

Presented by: Aaron Norton, PhD, LMHC, LMFT, MAC, CFMHE, CFBA, CCMHC, CRC

Executive Director, National Board of Forensic Evaluators

Dr. Aaron Norton is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with certifications in addictions, alcohol and drug counseling, rehabilitation counseling, clinical mental health counseling, trauma treatment, forensic mental health evaluation, forensic behavioral analysis, and forensic psychometry. He serves as executive director of the National Board of Forensic Evaluators, assistant professor of instruction at the University of South Dept. of Mental Health Law & Policy, southern regional director, Ethics Committee liaison, and International Counseling Task Force chair for the American Mental Health Counselors Association, chair of the Government Relations Committee for the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association, and consulting editor for AMHCA’s The Advocate Magazine. He co-authored the Forensic Evaluation section of the "AMHCA Standards for the Practice of Clinical Mental Health Counseling,” authored the proposal for AMHCA’s Clinical Mental Health Specialist in Forensic Evaluation (CMHS-FE) credential, authored the DSM-5 to DSM-5-TR update article published in the American Counseling Association's Counseling Today magazine, and served on the expert panel that created the standards and written exam for the Florida Certification Board’s Certified Telehealth Practitioner (CTP) credential. He has 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist and clinical supervisor, was awarded Mental Health Counselor of the Year by the American Mental Health Counselors Association in 2016, Counselor Educator of the Year by the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association in 2016, Researcher of the Year by the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association in 2019, and he was awarded AMHCA’s Public and Community Service Award in 2020. An experienced writer, presenter, and trainer, he has been published in several academic journals and professional magazines in the counseling profession.

Continuing Education Information

The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) has been approved by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6189. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. NBFE is solely responsible for all aspects of the program.

This workshop has been approved for 1 contact hour with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling, CE Broker Tracking # 20-642629 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Business Practices of Forensic Mental Health Evaluation (4 CEs • CE Broker Tracking # 20-647891 • ACEP No.6189) (12 Apr 2022)

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT

Learn Business Tips and Strategies from 4 Successful Forensic Mental Health Evaluators!

Description: A forensic mental health evaluator can do a wonderful job of gaining expertise and writing a quality report yet fall short when it comes to generating business referrals, promoting their services, networking with referral sources, determining how much to charge, and other important aspects of running a forensic practice. This 4-hour "on demand" workshop was designed to help to bridge this gap in forensic mental health evaluation. The webinar consists of viewing recordings of two separate two-hour webinars featuring four successful and prominent forensic mental health evaluators in Florida, Georgia, and Virginia recorded with a live audience in 2017 and 2019. Presenters will offer various tips and strategies for how to manage business aspects of a forensic practice. Attendees will also receive a link to download PDFs of slides, a sample fee schedule, and a sample professional curriculum vitae (CV).

Note: After viewing the videos, attendees must complete a 10-question post-webinar quiz based on the webinar slides and pass with a score of 80% to receive a continuing education certificate.

Learning Objectives

Objective 1: Learn methods of gaining more referrals.

Objective 2: Learn how to develop an attractive resume designed for the forensic arena.

Objective 3: Become more cognizant of what attorneys are looking for in a forensic evaluator.

Objective 4: Explore the importance of identifying a lucrative and marketable niche.

Objective 5: Identify strategies for determining how much to charge for a forensic evaluation.

About the Presenters

Norman Hoffman, Ph.D., Ed.D., LMHC, LMFT, CFMHE, CCCE, CFBA

Dr. Norman Hoffman is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, and Founder and President of the National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE). He is an experienced expert witness, forensic examiner, author, and jazz musician. Dr. Hoffman developed the Hoffman Organicity Test (HOT), which aids clinicians in differentiating between organic brain disorders, non-organic disorders, and psychotic disorders. Dr. Hoffman began his work with the Devereux Foundation in 1963, specializing as a music therapist for children. In 1969, he then completed a one-year clinical internship at the Menninger Memorial Hospital in Kansas. That experience led to his first book, Hear the Music! A New Approach to Mental Health. His work in the field of organic brain damage led to The Hoffman Organicity Test.

Michael Jeffrey, LPC, LMFT, CFMHE

Michael F Jeffrey was an army brat and traveled the US and ended up graduating high school in Paris, France. After college he became a VA Probation and Parole Officer for the next 31 years. While a PO he became fascinated with drugs and addiction and eventually wrote the syllabus used by probation and parole serviced for their basic drug and alcohol training and taught the class for 12 years. Realizing he also had a fascination for mental health he became an LPC a year before he retired in 1999.

Six months after retirement he was hired on this third passion Death Sentence Mitigation. He has worked 14 capital cases in federal and state courts since 1999. He is a Licensed Family and Family Therapist and is an assistant clinical professor in the Department of Psychiatry at Virginia Commonwealth University. He received his certification as a Forensic Mental Health Evaluator two years ago. He is qualified as an expert witness in both drug/alcohol assessment ad treatment and mental health diagnosis and treatment in 8 circuit courts in VA and in two federal courts. He is also president of the Virginia Association of Clinical Counselors.

Michael Holler, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC, CFMHE, CCCE

Michael Holler is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, a National Certified Counselor, a Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluator, a Certified Child Custody Evaluator, a Qualified Parenting Coordinator, a Qualified Clinical Supervisor and a Certified Family and County Mediator. Michael has a private practice in Tavernier in the Florida Keys. Michael has been working with individuals, families, couples and organizations for over 25 years. Michael is also a Neurofeedback provider. Michael has worked in inpatient psychiatric, community mental health and private practice settings; Michael has worked as an adjunct professor in psychology at Florida Keys Community College. Michael was President of the Upper Keys Interagency Council in 1997. Michael was the first Intensive Onsite Services Counselor in the State of Florida. Michael is the Past President and Ethics Committee Chair of the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association. Michael has developed a 12-hour High Conflict Resolution Parent Education Course, which was approved by the Chief Judge of Monroe County, Florida. Michael conducted his own research and evaluation on the Direct/Inferential Model of Communication in both his senior project (bachelor’s level) and his Masters Thesis. For his Senior Project on this subject Michael was awarded Second Prize in the Undergraduate Research Competition of the Missouri Psychological Association. In cooperation with the Deputy Clerk of Monroe County Court, Michael developed a Social Investigation Program for the Monroe County Court. Michael is a former musician (Guitarist & Singer) and continues to perform as a hobby. Michael also was a former Master Scuba Instructor, and was the author of an article published in the Fourth Quarter 1994 issue of the Undersea Journal of the Professional Association of Dive Instructors (PADI), entitled: The Psychological Aspects of Rescue Management.

Dr. Tommy Black is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been in private practice since 1998. Currently he serves as a member of the Georgia Composite Board for Professional Counselors, Social Workers, and Marriage & Family Therapists. He also serves as the Chair of the Rules Committee and on the Advisory Panel for the National Board of Forensic Evaluators. Dr. Black has extensive experience and training in Cognitive-Behavior Therapy, REBT, and DBT. He works with a myriad of life issues but has particular expertise in Grief/Loss, Depression, Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, Impulse Control Issues, Relationship difficulties, and Adjustment Difficulties. A veteran of the Gulf War (1990-1991) while serving in the U.S. Army, Dr. Black has years of personal and professional experience in understanding and helping others cope with the specific trials of military services for active duty individuals and their families.

About the Moderator

Continuing Education Information

This workshop has been approved for 4.0 contact hours with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling, and the Florida Board of Psychology, CE Broker Tracking # 20-647891 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

How to Conduct a Comprehensive Mental Status Examination (1 CE • CE Broker Tracking # 20-642801 • ACEP No.6189) (12 Apr 2022)

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT

The purpose of the MSE is to obtain a comprehensive cross-sectional description of the patient's mental state, which, when combined with the biographical and historical information of the psychiatric history, allows the clinician to make an accurate diagnosis and formulation, which are required for coherent treatment. Many mental health professionals are under-trained on how to conduct--as well as how to report--a MSE. In fact, the MSE section of the forensic mental health evaluation report is one of the most commonly rejected section in NBFE's oral examination. If you're not 100% confident that you can conduct and report a quality MSE, then this webinar is for you! This "on demand" webinar is a recording from an event filmed with a live webinar audience on 3/1/19.

Learning Objectives

Distinguish between some commonly confused terms, such as affect v. mood, insight v. judgment, hallucinations v. delusions.
Describe intelligently the presentation of a patient with psychiatric symptoms.
Review examples of language and terminology when writing the MSE.
Identify appropriate screening tools to assist with the MSE.
Learn to write normal (negative) and abnormal (positive) MSEs.

About the Presenter

Norman Hoffman, Ph.D., Ed.D., LMHC, LMFT, CFMHE, CCCE, CFBA

Continuing Education Information

This workshop has been approved for 1 hour of continuing education with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling, CE Broker Tracking # 20-642801 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Fun With Z-Codes: The Clinician's Guide to Diagnosing Non-Disorders (1 CE • CE Broker Tracking # 20-699502 • ACEP No.6189) (12 Apr 2022)

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT

Some mental health professionals erroneously believe that once they've slapped a disorder label on an assessment, they've done their due diligence in formulating a DSM-5-TR diagnosis, but they're missing out on an important and critical aspect of diagnosis-- z-codes!

What are "z-codes?" If they aren't disorders, will insurance companies pay for them? If not, then why are they important?

A comprehensive list of z-codes is an integral part of diagnosis. When clinicians learn to efficiently and effectively list z-codes, they can save themselves and others a great deal of time, write more meaningful treatment plans, more easily identify what's missing in their interventions, and thereby improve client outcomes.

Whether you're a therapist seeking to improve your clinical skills or a forensic evaluator who wants to write a more effective evaluation report, this 1-hour webinar should equip you to start having fun with z-codes.

Learning Objectives:

Define z-codes and learn an efficient method for where and how to find then in the DSM-5-TR.
List reasons why z-codes are so important for thorough assessment and treatment planning.
Identify several z-codes in a case scenario.

About the Presenter

Dr. Aaron Norton is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with certifications in addictions, alcohol and drug counseling, rehabilitation counseling, clinical mental health counseling, trauma treatment, forensic mental health evaluation, forensic behavioral analysis, and forensic psychometry. He serves as Executive Director of the National Board of Forensic Evaluators, Assistant Professor of Instruction at the University of South Dept. of Mental Health Law & Policy, Southern Regional Director, Ethics Committee Liaison, and International Counseling Task Force Chair for the American Mental Health Counselors Association, Chair of the Government Relations Committee for the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association, and Consulting Editor for AMHCA’s The Advocate Magazine. He co-authored the Forensic Evaluation section of the “AMHCA Standards for the Practice of Clinical Mental Health Counseling,” authored the proposal for AMHCA’s Clinical Mental Health Specialist in Forensic Evaluation (CMHS-FE) credential, and served on the expert panel that created the standards and written exam for the Florida Certification Board’s Certified Telehealth Practitioner (CTP) credential. He has 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist and clinical supervisor, was awarded Mental Health Counselor of the Year by the American Mental Health Counselors Association in 2016, Counselor Educator of the Year by the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association in 2016, Researcher of the Year by the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association in 2019, and he was awarded AMHCA’s Public and Community Service Award in 2020. An experienced writer, presenter, and trainer, he has been published in several academic journals and professional magazines in the counseling profession.

Continuing Education Information

This workshop has been approved for 1 contact hour with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling, CE Broker Tracking # 20-699502 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Fact Vs. Expert Witness: Do's and Don'ts of Giving Testimony in the Courtroom (1.5 CEs • CE Broker Tracking # 20-563934 • ACEP No.6189) (12 Apr 2022)

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT

Whether you want to explore forensic mental health evaluation as a career option, or you just want to be prepared in the event that you are ever subpoenaed to testify in court as a mental health professional, this 90-minute webinar is an excellent way to get informed or updated.

Learning Objectives:

(1) Learn how to prepare credible credentials.

(2) Ensure proper preparation for court.

(3) Understand and appreciate attorney "traps."

(4) Understand the Daubert Standard of expert witness testimony compared to the Frye Standard.

(5) Understand the differences between an expert and fact witness.

About the Presenters

Richard Stride, Psy.D., MBA, LPC, LMHC, CFMHE

Richard J. Stride, Psy.D., MBA, LPC, LMHC has been providing forensic mental health services to attorneys and courts since 1996. He has been an expert witness in over 100 cases and consulted in over 150 cases. He is the current CEO at Cascade Mental Health Care, Centralia, WA.

Norman Hoffman, Ph.D., Ed.D., LMHC, LMFT, CFMHE

At first glance, a clinic, a courtroom, and a nightclub have little in common. One offers treatment; one hears testimony, and one echoes timbre and tempo long into the night. Yet, surface dissimilarities have proven no barrier to Dr. Norman Hoffman. A licensed professional marriage and family therapist and mental health counselor, certified forensic evaluator, and accomplished jazz musician, over the course of his career, Dr. Hoffman has pioneered the integration of these seemingly separate studies to become a leading authority on child development, music therapy, and forensic evaluation as well as the author of a groundbreaking book that could change the way parents raise their children. Additionally, recognizing that all too often the therapists closest to a family’s troubles were scrutinized regarding credentials and even denied recognition when testifying in a court of law, Hoffman utilized his own experience as an expert courtroom witness in mental health, childhood custody, and competency evaluations to establish the National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) in 2003. NBFE offers a rigorous forensic evaluator training and certification program for therapists and is the only forensic mental health counselors credentialing organization recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association. Today, as Clinical Director of the Counseling and Psychotherapy Center in Ormond Beach, Florida, Dr. Hoffman continues to break through conventional barriers to provide families with the help and guidance they need. But he has not forgotten his musical foundation. He credits music with inspiring his collaborative approach to working with parents and professionals, and he continues to perform and write the jazz that started it all.

Continuing Education Information

This workshop has been approved for 1.5 contact hours with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling, CE Broker Tracking # 20-563934 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

How to Write a Successful Clinical or Forensic Report (2 CEs • CE Broker Tracking # 20-693714 • ACEP No.6189) (12 Apr 2022)

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT

Description: A mental health professional can be an excellent therapist or evaluator, but if he or she sends a poorly written report to a court, third party payer, probation officer, attorney, or third party payer, the implications can be substantial. In forensic cases, a report or evaluator can be disqualified as an expert due to errors, omissions, and/or inappropriate commentary. For this reason, it's not enough to be a good clinician--you have to also know how to write a quality report. Didn't get thorough training on report-writing in grad school? Don't remember it because it was so long ago? Not feeling secure about your report-writing, or maybe just looking for some reassurance that you're already doing a great job with your reports? This 2-hour webinar was designed to help you learn to write a report in such a way that your target audience will understand you, ensure appropriate content, train you to avoid sentences that may be deemed offensive or inappropriate, and learn to use good English, syntax, grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure.

Learning Objectives

Participants will become mindful of avoiding unprofessional words and sentence structure

Identify strategies to avoid unprofessional verbiage and sentence structure.
Use vocabulary commonly recognized in professional reports.
Write reports using a succinct, consistent, and structured format.

About the Presenter

Norman Hoffman, Ph.D., Ed.D., LMHC, LMFT, CFMHE, CCCE, CFBA

Continuing Education Information

This workshop has been approved for 2 hours of continuing education with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling, CE Broker Tracking # 20-693714 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

A Unified Partnership Between Attorney and Mental Health Counselor (1 CE • CE Broker Tracking # 20-708538 • ACEP No.6189) (12 Apr 2022)

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT

Mentally ill or addicted patients that are also facing legal troubles need a multi-dimensional support system in order to have the best chance of success both inside and outside the courtroom. In my experience I’ve noticed that there is usually a lack of partnership and communication between attorney and mental health counselor/therapist that is often detrimental to both the patient and the court system. This 1-hour presentation is focused on giving you an in-depth overview of how the criminal justice system works for defendants. It will focus on:

The arrest process
Getting a person into mental health/drug court
Mental health/drug court process
Additional/different requirements for this population that regular defendants don’t face
Complying with mental health/drug court
Pitfalls of these specialized courts
The discrepancy between what may be best for the patient vs. what is best for the judge, and how more education can help remedy that.

Learning Objectives

Learn how to establish an effective partnership with your client's attorney that will help his/her case.
Explore how to navigate the criminal justice system and develop an understanding of what your client is going through.
Identify the pitfalls of the justice system/mental health court and how serious misunderstandings/lack of education hurt your client's case.

Cost

$15 for CFMHEs, CFMHE applicants/candidates, and members of any associations partnered with NBFE (see Professional Partners page for a complete list)

$25 for non-members

About the Presenter

Adam Rossen, Esq.

https://www.criminal-defense-dui.lawyer

An award-winning attorney and former prosecutor with over 10 years of experience in both criminal and DUI law, Adam is a skilled lawyer who takes a multi-dimensional approach to get his clients the best results possible. Adam believes attorneys are named “counselors” for a reason: because their impact needs to go beyond the law. A high school basketball coach for over 10 years, Adam is a mentor and motivator who keeps his clients involved and on track all the way through so they'll continue to see long-term success well after their case is over. A life-long South Florida resident, Adam has spent his entire career practicing here. He's successfully conducted over 50 jury trials and has handled hundreds of DUI, criminal and domestic violence cases. A frequent lecturer, Adam regularly speaks on DUI, criminal law, and drugs, drug court and addiction at various institutions including DUI schools, Broward College, FAU, and a number of mental health treatment facilities.

Continuing Education Information

This workshop has been approved for 1 contact hour with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling, CE Broker Tracking # 20-708538 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Reviewing Social Investigations and Forensic Reports (2 CEs CE Broker Tracking No. 20-738910 - CE Broker Provider No. 50-15823) (12 Apr 2022)

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT

Description

This "on demand" webinar teaches you how to draft superior reports for social investigation/child custody cases. The course contains practical and specific bullet-point advice along with numerous examples of both poor and effective report language. You will leave the course with extensive role-playing examples and a set of action steps to follow and provide you help to write more powerful, persuasive and defensible reports.

Learning Objectives

The participant will be provided valuable information on the structure of the Forensic Reports.
The participant will have the skills and tools to write a Bullet Proof Forensic Report.
There will be ample examples of problems with the Forensic Report.
The participant will be provided rationale for the importance of Collateral Contacts.
Each participant will be provided information on how attorneys attmept to disqualify your report.
Each participant will be provided the Ten most frequent faults in forensic report writing.
The participants will provided role playing examples of attorney traps by forensic mental health experts as well as by an esteemed family law attorney.

Cost

$30 for NBFE members (i.e., CFMHEs and CFMHE applicants/candidates) and members of all partnering organizations (see nbfe.net/partners for a current list).

$40 for all others

About the Presenters

Kim Banister, Esq.

Kim Bannister is a private attorney with a practice centering on family law, domestic violence, dependency and probate. She is a Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Law Mediator. Ms. Banister has worked primarily in the Volusia and Flagler County areas for the past eleven years. She has also represented clients in Citrus, Osceola, Seminole, Putnam, St. Johns, Duval and Clay Counties. She is the former managing attorney for the family law division of Community Legal Services of Mid-Florida, Inc. (CLSMF). During her tenure at CLSMF, she managed seven attorneys and support staff in twelve counties across Central Florida and was named Outstanding Supervisor of the Year.

Ms. Banister received her law degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. She also holds a Master of Arts in Anthropology/Archaeology and a minor in Museum Curation and Management from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology with certification in Applied Archaeology from George Mason University, graduating with honors from both universities.

Kim is also actively involved in a variety of community and professional organizations. She is the current President of the Volusia County Bar Association and a former Executive Board member. She is a past member of the Board of Directors for the Volusia Flagler PACE Center for Girls, serving for six years, and a past member of the Junior League of Daytona Beach.

She has also served as a two-term President as well as Vice President and Board Member for the Volusia Flagler Association for Women Lawyers, and served on the State Board for the Florida Association for Women Lawyers. She has served on the steering committee for the formation of Sally’s Safe Haven Visitation Center in Flagler County. Ms. Banister is a past volunteer with the Boy Scouts of America and served in leadership with the Girl Scouts of America for over seven years.

Norman Hoffman, Ph.D., Ed.D., LMHC, LMFT, CFMHE, CCCE, CFBA

Continuing Education Information

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

The Clinician's Guide to Conceptualizing and Assessing Personality Disorders (2 CEs - CE Broker No. 20-1082140) (12 Apr 2022)

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), nearly 10% of the adult U.S. population has met the diagnostic criteria for one or more personality disorders (PDs) in the past year, and the majority of Americans with PDs (85%) meet criteria for at least one other mental disorder. Yet, not even half of Americans with PDs have been treated for their disorder.

Sometimes, therapists feel "stuck" working with clients with depressive and anxiety disorders who don't seem to be making much progress. At times, an undiagnosed PD might be part of the complex clinical picture, and perhaps a change in treatment approach would help the client to start getting some traction.

Forensic evaluators are sometimes presented with scenarios in which a referral source is asking for clarification on whether an individual has one or more PDs, but PDs can often be very challenging to diagnose over brief periods of time, especially if a client has poor insight, is defensive, or is not forthcoming with information suggestive of a PD.

To further complicate matters, the American Psychiatric Association (APA) introduced a new dimensional-categorical hybrid model of PDs that is expected to be replace the current system of diagnosing PDs. This new system is very different than what mental health professionals are accustomed to.

This webinar was designed to equip you with several tools and resources to help better conceptualize and detect PDs, whether in therapy or in forensic evaluation settings.

Learning Objectives:

Define personality disorders (PDs).
Identify changes in the conceptualization of PDs as they appear in the new dimensional-categorical hybrid model in the DSM-5-TR.
List several tests and other data sources that can be used to detect signs and symptoms of PDs during evaluation.

Cost

$30 for NBFE members (i.e., CFMHEs and CFME applicants/candidates)
$30 for members of partnering organizations (see Professional Partners page for a complete list)
$40 for non-members

About the Presenter

Presented by: Aaron Norton, PhD, LMHC, LMFT, MAC, CFMHE, CFBA, CCMHC, CRC

Executive Director, National Board of Forensic Evaluators

Dr. Aaron Norton is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with certifications in addictions, alcohol and drug counseling, rehabilitation counseling, clinical mental health counseling, trauma treatment, forensic mental health evaluation, forensic behavioral analysis, and forensic psychometry. He serves as executive director of the National Board of Forensic Evaluators, assistant professor of instruction at the University of South Dept. of Mental Health Law & Policy, southern regional director, Ethics Committee liaison, and International Counseling Task Force chair for the American Mental Health Counselors Association, chair of the Government Relations Committee for the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association, and consulting editor for AMHCA’s The Advocate Magazine. He co-authored the Forensic Evaluation section of the "AMHCA Standards for the Practice of Clinical Mental Health Counseling,” authored the proposal for AMHCA’s Clinical Mental Health Specialist in Forensic Evaluation (CMHS-FE) credential, authored the DSM-5 to DSM-5-TR update article published in the American Counseling Association's Counseling Today magazine, and served on the expert panel that created the standards and written exam for the Florida Certification Board’s Certified Telehealth Practitioner (CTP) credential. He has 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist and clinical supervisor, was awarded Mental Health Counselor of the Year by the American Mental Health Counselors Association in 2016, Counselor Educator of the Year by the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association in 2016, Researcher of the Year by the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association in 2019, and he was awarded AMHCA’s Public and Community Service Award in 2020. An experienced writer, presenter, and trainer, he has been published in several academic journals and professional magazines in the counseling profession.

Continuing Education Information

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Ethics Update: Ethical Issues in Forensic Mental Health Evaluation (3 Ethics CEs - CE Broker Tracking No. 20-746282) (12 Apr 2022)

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT

Look no further--This 3-hour webinar has it all, and it's presented by an AMHCA Code of Ethics Contributor, a FMHCA Ethics Committee Chair, and the Ethics Committee Liaison of AMHCA!

Hour #1:

Lecture on ethics, hearsay, and ex parte when conducting a forensic mental health evaluation, including exploration of case scenarios

Hour #2:

An update on the forensic section of the 2020 American Mental Health Counselors Association (AMHCA) Code of Ethics cross-referenced with guidelines published by the American Board of Forensic Psychology (ABFP), American Counseling Association (ACA), and American Mental Health Counselors Association (AMHCA)

Hour #3:

Actual audio from a licensure board disciplinary hearing involving a child custody/parenting evaluation, commentary from a panel of experts, and questions and answers from the audience

Learning Objectives

Articulate a brief history of professional ethics.
Apply knowledge of professional ethicals to scenarios involving forensic mental health evaluations.
Describe ethical guidelines related to forensic evaluation published in the 2020 revision of the AMHCA Code of Ethics, and cross-reference with guidelines published by the ABFP, ACA, and AAMFT.
Identify ethical guidelines related to an actual licensure board disciplinary hearing involving a child custody evaluation.

Cost

$45 for NBFE members (i.e., CFMHEs and CFMHE applicants/candidates)
$45 for members of partnering organizations (see Professional Partners for current listing)
$60 for non-members

About the Presenters

Michael Holler, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC, CFMHE, CCCE

Chair of Ethics Committee, Florida Mental Health Counselors Association

Michael Holler is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, a National Certified Counselor, a Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluator, a Certified Child Custody Evaluator, a Qualified Parenting Coordinator, a Qualified Clinical Supervisor and a Certified Family and County Mediator. Michael has a private practice in Tavernier in the Florida Keys. Michael has been working with individuals, families, couples and organizations for over 25 years. Michael is also a Neurofeedback provider. Michael has worked in inpatient psychiatric, community mental health and private practice settings; Michael has worked as an adjunct professor in psychology at Florida Keys Community College. Michael was President of the Upper Keys Interagency Council in 1997. Michael was the first Intensive Onsite Services Counselor in the State of Florida. Michael is the Past President and Ethics Committee Chair of the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association. Michael has developed a 12-hour High Conflict Resolution Parent Education Course, which was approved by the Chief Judge of Monroe County, Florida. Michael conducted his own research and evaluation on the Direct/Inferential Model of Communication in both his senior project (bachelor’s level) and his Masters Thesis. For his Senior Project on this subject Michael was awarded Second Prize in the Undergraduate Research Competition of the Missouri Psychological Association. In cooperation with the Deputy Clerk of Monroe County Court, Michael developed a Social Investigation Program for the Monroe County Court. Michael is a former musician (Guitarist & Singer) and continues to perform as a hobby. Michael also was a former Master Scuba Instructor, and was the author of an article published in the Fourth Quarter 1994 issue of the Undersea Journal of the Professional Association of Dive Instructors (PADI), entitled: The Psychological Aspects of Rescue Management.

Norman Hoffman, Ph.D., Ed.D., LMHC, LMFT, CFMHE, CCCE, CFBA

Founder and President, National Board of Forensic Evaluators

Dr. Hoffman is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, and Founder and President of the National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE). He is an experienced expert witness, forensic examiner, author, and jazz musician. Dr. Hoffman developed the Hoffman Organicity Test (HOT), which aids clinicians in differentiating between organic brain disorders, non-organic disorders, and psychotic disorders. Dr. Hoffman began his work with the Devereux Foundation in 1963, specializing as a music therapist for children. In 1969, he then completed a one-year clinical internship at the Menninger Memorial Hospital in Kansas. That experience led to his first book, Hear the Music! A New Approach to Mental Health. His work in the field of organic brain damage led to The Hoffman Organicity Test. From the time of his work at the Hazleton/Nanticoke MH/MR Center in Pennsylvania, in 1976, Dr. Hoffman assisted in the development, training and of child custody evaluations between the mental health center and the Luzerne/Wyoming County Circuit Court. He is an expert witness in the field of forensic mental health evaluations, child custody disputes, and competency assessments throughout the United States. Dr. Norm is a qualified and approved Parenting Coordinator as well as a former Florida Family Law Supreme Court Mediator.

Aaron Norton, Ph.D., LMHC, LMFT, NCC, CCMHC, CRC, MAC, CFMHE, CFBA, DCMHS

Executive Director, National Board of Forensic Evaluators

Aaron Norton is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with certifications in addictions, alcohol and drug counseling, rehabilitation counseling, clinical mental health counseling, forensic mental health evaluation, and forensic behavioral analysis. He is recognized by the American Mental Health Counselors Association as a Diplomate and Clinical Mental Health Specialist in Substance Abuse and Co-Occurring Disorders. He serves as Executive Director of the National Board of Forensic Evaluators, a national not-for-profit board officially endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association that provides training, certification, and professional advocacy for licensed mental health professionals specializing in forensic mental health evaluation. He is an Adjunct Instructor at the University of South Florida's College of Behavioral and Community Sciences as well as a doctoral candidate in the Counselor Education and Supervision program at USF. He serves as Southern Regional Director for the American Mental Health Counselors Association and President and Chair of Education, Training Standards, and Continuing Education for the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association. He also works in a private practice specializing in both therapy and forensic and clinical evaluation, as well as providing clinical supervision to mental health counselor and marriage and family therapist interns as a Qualified Supervisor. He has nearly 20 years of experience in the counseling profession. He was awarded Mental Health Counselor of the Year by the American Mental Health Counselors Association and Counselor Educator of the Year by the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association in 2016 and has been published in Addiction Professional, American Journal of Orthopsychiatry, Journal of Individual Psychology, Journal of Gay and Lesbian Social Services, and The Advocate Magazine.

Continuing Education Information

This workshop has been approved for 3 contact hours in Ethics and Professional Boundaries with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling, CE Broker Tracking # 20-746282 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Michael Holler, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC, CFMHE, CCCE

A "Bad" Witness vs. A "Good" Witness: A Judge's Perspective (2 CEs - CE Broker Tracking No. 20-698707 CE Broker Provider No. 50-15823 - ACEP No. 6189) (12 Apr 2022)

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT

Afraid of testifying in court?

Want to brush up on your skills as a fact or expert witness?

Get the inside scoop from an experienced judge on what judges want and need from a good witness!

This 2-hour webinar was designed to provide mental health professionals, whether therapists or forensic evaluators, an overview of basic skills every witness should know from a judge's perspective. The overall purpose of this webinar is to help you to:

Be able to prepare for and present a case before the court, demonstrating confidence, competence and ease as a witness under both direct and cross examination
Be able to demonstrate best practices in both case preparation and testimony

Learning Objectives

1. Describe court room etiquette required and the courtroom procedures.

2. Describe the types of evidence to bear the burden of proof and how the types of evidence should be presented.

3. How to best prepare case information.

4. Describe and demonstrate the necessary skills required for preparing a case for presentation in court.

Cost

$30 (members of NBFE and partnering organizations)

or $40 (non-members) will be assessed.

About the Presenter

Ashley Willcott, JD, CWLS

is a Certified Child Welfare Law Specialist and an experienced trial attorney who currently serves as a Judge Pro Tem in Juvenile Court. She has practiced in various capacities in juvenile courts since 1992 including as a parents attorney; guardian ad litem; a Special Assistant Attorney General representing the Division of Human Resources, Division of Family and Children Services; and currently as a Juvenile Court Judge Pro Tem. She is a 1989 graduate of Newcomb College, Tulane University with a degree in Psychology and English, earning a Juris Doctorate from Emory University School of Law in 1992. She has also worked in the government sector as the on-going and current Georgia Supreme Court Justice on Committee for Children Cold Case Project lead; and as a Governor Appointee Child Advocate for the State of Georgia. Ashley has her own child welfare consulting firm, where she trains case managers, experts, and lawyers nationwide, including for the National Institute of Trial Lawyers, Georgia State University, and Families First.

Continuing Education Information

This webinar has been approved for 2.0 general contact hour(s) with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling, CE Broker Tracking # 20-698707 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Conducting Forensic Evaluations Outside of the Traditional Office Setting: Considerations for In-Home Services and Telehealth (1 CE • CE Broker Tracking # 20-785032 • ACEP No.6189) (12 Apr 2022)

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT

Need to provide in-home or telehealth evaluations?

Forensic evaluations are sometimes conducted in none-traditional environments, such as jails. Some states require evaluators to visit the homes of parents when conducting parenting evaluations for child custody cases. Due to the current pandemic, some evaluators who typically meet with clients in-person are looking for ways to conduct evaluations via-webcam. Scenarios such as these present evaluators with unique challenges and considerations. This 1-hour webinar is a discussion of ethical, legal, and procedural concerns about conducting forensic evaluations in the homes of clients and via telehealth.

Learning Objectives

To better understand ethical considerations of testing, and interviewing outside of traditional office setting.
Explore the benefits and risks of conducting forensic evaluations outside of traditional settings.
Help providers become more confident in conducting evaluations outside of the traditional settings.

Cost

$15 for members (i.e., Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluators, CFMHE applicants and candidates) and members of partnering organizations (see Professional Partners page for a complete list).

$20 for non-members.

About the Presenter

Ekom Essien, LPC, NCC, CFMHE, CCCE

is a licensed professional counselor in Georgia. He serves as the southern regional director for NBFE and is an adjunct instructor at Brenau University in the clinical mental health counseling program under the department of psychology. Ekom owns an operates his private practice Verity Counseling & Forensic Evaluations in Fayetteville Georgia where he works with clients and their families.

Continuing Education Information

This webinar has been approved for 1.0 Telehealth contact hour(s) with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling, CE Broker Tracking # 20-785032 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

How to Become a Dangerous Expert Witness (4 CEs • CE Broker Tracking # 20-802998 • ACEP No.6189) (12 Apr 2022)

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT

This is an on-demand course/training.

Description

This course will demonstrate strategies and techniques necessary for the expert witness to command as he/she enters the world of the courtroom. Dangerous experts understand how to deal with the opposing counsel’s traps and manipulations that are designed to humiliate, discredit, make you look foolish, unethical, biased, dishonest and unintelligent.

Dangerous experts are the most sought-after of all of the expert witnesses. Frequently, the mere disclosure of a dangerous expert witness to the opposing side can increase the change of settlement.

Learning Objectives

1.      Preparing the expert to testify
2.      Develop articles for each case presented
3.      Defeating opposing counsel’s tactics to discredit the expert
4.      Bulletproofing the expert’s opinion

Cost

$60 for NBFE members (i.e., CFMHEs and CFMHE applicants/candidates) and, for members of our partnering organizations (see Professional Partners for current listing)
$80 for non-members

About the Presenters

John M. Selden, Esq.

Appellate Specialist and Chief, Civil Commitment Division, Office of the Public Defender, 7^th Judicial Circuit. Mr. Selden is a graduate of Princeton University (B.A., English 1978), and New York Law School (J.D., 1981). He was admitted to the Bars of New York and New Jersey, and practiced there for ten years (currently inactive). After moving to Florida In 1991, he was admitted to the bar and has practiced there ever since. He has conducted hundreds of trials, over sixty of which were dependent upon forensic psychological expert witness testimony. He has also argued cases at both the New Jersey and Florida Supreme Courts.

Tommy Black, Ph.D., LMHC, LPC, CFMHE

Richard Stride, Psy.D., MBA, LPC, LMHC, CFMHE

Aaron Norton, LMHC, LMFT, MAC, CFMHE, CFBA, CCMHC

Aaron Norton is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy serving as Executive Director of the National Board of Forensic Evaluators, Adjunct Instructor at the University of South Florida, Southern Regional Director for the American Mental Health Counselors Association, and President of the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association.

He has nearly 20 years of clinical and forensic experience at Integrity Counseling, Inc., was awarded Mental Health Counselor of the Year by the American Mental Health Counselors Association and Counselor Educator of the Year by the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association in 2016, Researcher of the Year by Florida Mental Health Counselors Association in 2020, and has been published in several social science journals and professional magazines in clinical mental health counseling.

Norman Hoffman, Ph.D., Ed.D., LMHC, LMFT, CFMHE, CCCE, CFBA

Continuing Education Information

This webinar has been approved for 4.0 general contact hour(s) with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling, and the Florida Board of Psychology, CE Broker Tracking #20-802998 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Introduction to Forensic Mental Health Evaluation (2 CEs • CE Broker Tracking # 20-810980 • ACEP No.6189) (12 Apr 2022)

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT

This is an on-demand course/training.

Description

In an ever-evolving healthcare landscape, many mental health professionals are looking for ways to diversity their practice. Forensic mental health evaluation is an interesting, impactful, and lucrative option for counselors who wish to branch out into new areas of expertise. For many clinicians, forensic work triggers a series of questions:

What can I do and not do as an expert witness?
Am I qualified to administer and interpret psychological tests?
What are judges and attorneys looking for in an evaluation?
What are some of the unique ethical considerations for forensic evaluation?
Can I do forensic work without having a doctorate?
Is it true that forensic evaluation is for psychologists and psychiatrists and not counselors, social workers, and marriage and family therapists?
How would I get business?
How much should I charge for my services?
What training or experience would I need?

Whether you want to practice exclusively in the specialty area of forensic mental health, want to do a little bit of it on the side, or are just curious and want to learn more, this training could be a helpful introduction into the field. We will cover various types of forensic specialties, ethical and legal guidelines for practice, options for training and certification, and how to build a forensic practice. We will also dispel common myths about the scope of practice of clinical mental health counseling as it relates to administering and interpreting psychological tests and conducting forensic evaluations. Finally, we will review various resources and options for training and certification.

Learning Objectives

1. Define forensic mental health evaluation as a specialization.

2. List and describe the various types of forensic mental health evaluations counselors can specialize in.

3. Describe ethical and legal considerations for forensic mental health.

4. Identify several resources for training in forensic evaluation.

Cost

$30 for NBFE members (i.e., CFMHEs and CFMHE applicants/candidates)
$30 for members of partnering organizations (see Professional Partners for current listing)
$45 for non-members

About the Presenter

Presented by: Aaron Norton, PhD, LMHC, LMFT, MAC, CFMHE, CFBA, CCMHC, CRC

Aaron Norton is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy serving as Executive Director of the National Board of Forensic Evaluators, Adjunct Instructor at the University of South Florida, Southern Regional Director for the American Mental Health Counselors Association, and Past-President of the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association.

Continuing Education Information

This webinar has been approved for 2.0 contact hours (1.0 general and 1.0 ethics hours) with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling, CE Broker Tracking # 20-810980 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

How Records Reviews Can Make or Break an Evaluation (1 CE • CE Broker Tracking # 20-885218 • ACEP No.6189) (12 Apr 2022)

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT

This is an on-demand course/training.

Description

Records reviews are one of the four essential categories of data sources for a quality forensic mental health evaluation, yet few mental health professionals have ever been formally trained on how to conduct them. Evaluators often ask NBFE questions about these reviews, such as:

What is a records review?
How to I determine what records to obtain?
What am I looking for?
How do I report what I find?

Using real case examples, this 1-hour webinar was designed to provide guidance on these questions.

Learning Objectives

Define "records review" in the context of forensic mental health evaluation and summarize what ethical codes and practice guidelines say about them.
List some of the most common types of records that should be reviewed during the evaluation process.
Communicate pertinent information from records review in a forensic evaluation report.

Cost

$15 for NBFE members (i.e., CFMHEs and CFMHE applicants/candidates) and, for members of our partnering organizations (see Professional Partners for current listing)
$25 for non-members

About the Presenter

Aaron Norton, PhD, LMHC, LMFT, MAC, CFMHE, CFBA, CCMHC, CRC

Dr. Norton is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist serving as Executive Director of the National Board of Forensic Evaluators, Adjunct Instructor at the University of South Florida, Southern Regional Director for the American Mental Health Counselors Association, and President of the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association.

He has nearly 20 years of clinical and forensic experience at Integrity Counseling, Inc., was awarded Mental Health Counselor of the Year by the American Mental Health Counselors Association and Counselor Educator of the Year by the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association in 2016, Researcher of the Year by Florida Mental Health Counselors Association in 2020, and he was the recipient of the American Mental Health Counselors Association's Public and Community Service Award in 2020. He has been published in several social science academic journals and professional magazines in clinical mental health counseling.

Continuing Education Information

NBFE is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content.

This webinar has been approved for 1.0 general contact hour(s) with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling, CE Broker Tracking # 20-885218 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Outsmarting the Liars: An Introduction to the Verbal Lie Detection Tool Cognitive Credibility Assessment (2 CEs • CE Broker Tracking # 20-871597 • ACEP No.6189) (12 Apr 2022)

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT

Description

Cognitive Credibility Assessment is a verbal lie detection tool that exploits differences between truth tellers and liars in their cognitive processing and strategies they use to appear convincing. It consists of three clusters interview techniques: (i) imposing cognitive load, (ii) encouraging interviewees to say more and (iii) asking unexpected questions. This webinar introduces these three clusters together with the empirical evidence that it results in an accuracy rate of around 75% in discriminating truth tellers and liars.

Learning Objectives:

Summarize three clusters of interview techniques to differentiate truth tellers from liars.
List the preferred strategies used by truth tellers and liars to appear convincing in interviews.
List the most diagnostic verbal cues to deceit.

Cost:

$50 for members, including Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluators (CFMHEs), CFMHE applicants/candidates, and members of all associations partnering with NBFE (see Professional Partners link for full listing)
$60 for non-members

About the Presenter:

Dr. Aldert Vrij is Professor of Applied Social Psychology, University of Portsmouth (UK). His main research interest is deception, resulting in almost 600 publications, which have been widely cited (> 25,000 citations and H-index 79). He received grants from British Research Councils, Trusts and Foundations, Insurers, Federal Bureau of Investigation, High value detainee Interrogation Group, and American, British, Dutch, and Singapore Governments, totalling > $11,000,000. He works closely with practitioners (police, security services and insurers) in terms of conducting research and disseminating its findings. His 2008 book Detecting lies and deceit: Pitfalls and opportunities is a comprehensive overview of research into (non)verbal and physiological deception and lie detection. He is the contact person of the European consortium of Psychological Research on Deception Detection (EPRODD) www.eprodd.eu. In 2016 he received the International Investigative Interviewing Research Group (iiiRG) Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his significant contribution to investigative interviewing.

Continuing Education:

The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) has been approved by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6189. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. NBFE is solely responsible for all aspects of the program.

NBFE is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content.

This workshop has been approved for 2.0 hours of continuing education with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling

CE Broker Tracking # 20-871597 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

The Mental Health Professional's Role in Prevention and Mitigation of Police Violence and Burnout (1.5 CEs • CE Broker Tracking # 20-895265 • ACEP No.6189) (12 Apr 2022)

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT

Images generated using ChatGPT AI

Description

The death of George Floyd, as well as numerous other violent and tragic encounters with police caught on camera, have sparked increased awareness and interest in police violence, racial injustice, and the need for police reform.

Statistics related to police violence, racial injustice, and police burnout yield alarming, puzzling, and perhaps seemingly contradictory findings. For example, police have killed 781 people in 2020 and Black people were about twice as likely as White people to be killed. Minority neighborhoods are disproportionately patrolled by police officers.

On the other hand, the populist "defund the police" slogan is murky, with the majority of racial and ethnic minorities in the U.S. stating that they do not want a reduced police presence in their neighborhoods. Meanwhile, violence against police officers, as well as suicide rates among their ranks, is on the rise.

In addition to implicit racial bias and systemic racism, police burnout has been cited as one contributor to police violence, and police burnout may be rising at the present time in relation to increased demands on police officers during periods of civil unrest, especially in larger metropolitan areas.

How can mental health professionals play a role in reducing police violence against American minorities as well as reducing police burnout? In this 1.5--hour webinar, three forensic mental health experts offers three strategies that mental health professionals can use to prevent and mitigate police violence and burnout.

Learning Objectives

Identify components of "fitness for duty" evaluations for police officer candidates.
Describe models in which mental health professionals respond alongside police officers at mental health-related calls.
Provide counseling interventions aimed at reducing and ameliorating police violence and burnout.

Cost

$30 for NBFE members (i.e., CFMHEs and CFMHE applicants/candidates) and, for members of our partnering organizations (see Professional Partners for current listing)
$40 for non-members

Presenters

  Norman Hoffman, Ph.D., Ed.D., LMHC, LMFT, CFMHE, CCCE, CFBA

Dr. Norman Hoffman is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, and Founder and President of the National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE). He is an experienced expert witness, forensic examiner, author, and jazz musician. Dr. Hoffman developed the Hoffman Organicity Test (HOT), which aids clinicians in differentiating between organic brain disorders, non-organic disorders, and psychotic disorders. Dr. Hoffman began his work with the Devereux Foundation in 1963, specializing as a music therapist for children. In 1969, he then completed a one-year clinical internship at the Menninger Memorial Hospital in Kansas. That experience led to his first book, Hear the Music! A New Approach to Mental Health. His work in the field of organic brain damage led to The Hoffman Organicity Test.

Ekom Essien, LPC, NCC, CFMHE, CCCE

Ekom Essien is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia. He serves as the southern Regional Director for the National Board of Forensic Evaluators and is an Adjunct Instructor at Brenau University in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program under the Department of Psychology. Ekom owns and operates his private practice Verity Counseling & Forensic Evaluations in Fayetteville Georgia where he works with clients and their clients, and he has history working with crisis response teams.

Aaron Norton, Ph.D., LMHC, LMFT, CFMHE, CFBA

Dr. Aaron Norton is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy serving as Executive Director of the National Board of Forensic Evaluators, Adjunct Instructor at the University of South Florida, Southern Regional Director for the American Mental Health Counselors Association, and Past-President of the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association. He has nearly 20 years of clinical and forensic experience at Integrity Counseling, Inc., was awarded Mental Health Counselor of the Year by the American Mental Health Counselors Association and Counselor Educator of the Year by the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association in 2016, Researcher of the Year by Florida Mental Health Counselors Association in 2020, and has been published in several social science journals and professional magazines in clinical mental health counseling. Dr. Norton has extensive history providing therapy for police officers.

Continuing Education Information



This webinar has been approved for 1.5 general contact hour(s) with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling, and the Florida Board of Psychology, CE Broker Tracking # 20-895265 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) has been approved by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6189. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. NBFE is solely responsible for all aspects of the program.

NBFE is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content.

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

2021 Update: The Mental Health Professional's Role in Evaluating the Need for Emotional Support Animals (3 CEs • CE Broker Tracking # 20-899083 • ACEP No.6189) (12 Apr 2022)

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT

This is an on-demand course/training.

In 2018, the National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) provided a comprehensive overview of legal, ethical, and clinical considerations for addressing client requests for emotional support animal (ESA) letters, including a checklist that mental health professionals could use to ensure due diligence and to protect themselves from liability when writing such letters.

However, in 2021, significant changes in federal and state law have created the need for an update. If you're still following old guidelines, you're going to really want to attend this event!

Attendees will be given access to a PDF handout version of PowerPoint slides for this program with hyperlinks to references, an updated checklist that can be used to facilitate assessment of the need for emotional support animals, and revised and updated sample letters and templates.

Get answers to important questions about ESA letters requests, such as:

How does federal law protect ESAs?
What does the law say must be provided to document the need for an ESA?
When it an ESA letter appropriate or inappropriate?
What sources of data does a mental health professional use when assessing the appropriateness of an ESA letter?
What should a letter include?
What liability does a healthcare professional accept when writing a letter, and how can a professional protect themselves from liability?
What happens when a healthcare practitioner is court-ordered to testify in court about an ESA letter?

Learning Objectives:

Define emotional support animals (ESAs) and differentiate ESAs from service animals, therapy animals, and pets.
Describe the legal and ethical ramifications for recommending ESAs for clients with emphasis on recent changes in federal law.
Differentiate between potentially harmful or problematic uses of ESA letters and therapeutic and clinically-relevant uses of ESA letters.
List several recommended practices, tools, and resources for addressing requests for ESA eligibility letters.

Cost

$40 for NBFE members (i.e., CFMHEs and CFMHE applicants/candidates) and, for members of our partnering organizations (see Professional Partners for current listing)
$50 for non-members

About the Presenter

Aaron Norton, PhD, LMHC, LMFT, MAC, CFMHE, CFBA, CCMHC, CRC

Continuing Education Information

This webinar has been approved for 2.0 general contact hours, and 1.0 Ethics and Boundaries hours with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling, CE Broker Tracking # 20-899083 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

NBFE is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content.

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

DSM-5-TR: What Mental Health Professionals Should Know About the New Edition (2 CEs • CE Broker Tracking #20-913034•ACEP No.6189) (14 May 2022)

Sat, 14 May 2022 04:00:00 GMT

On-Demand

DSM-5-TR: What Mental Health Professionals Should Know About the New Edition

Description

The DSM-5-TR was released in March 2022, nine years after the release of DSM-5. Although the medical model is not the only model that mental health professionals work with, it is an important one. Standards within the mental health professions (e.g., graduate program accreditation standards, best practice guidelines, codes of ethics) and from outside of the professions (e.g., licensure boards, third party payers) encourage or require mental health professionals to have an updated understanding of the DSM. Clinicians and forensic evaluators are busy professionals. With a myriad of competing responsibilities, it’s understandably challenging to put aside a little time to learn about changes in the DSM diagnostic system. This succinct, two-hour on-demand webinar was designed as a tool mental health professionals can use to get updated on important changes in the new edition.

Learning Objectives

Identify symptoms of Prolonged Grief Disorder, a new condition in DSM-5-TR.
Describe the APA’s efforts to increase attention to culture, racism, discrimination, gender identity, and childhood symptoms in DSM-5-TR.
Describe changes to Section III of DSM-5-TR (i.e., conditions for further study and assessment tools).

About the Presenter

Presented by: Aaron Norton, PhD, LMHC, LMFT, MAC, CFMHE, CFBA, CCMHC, CRC

Executive Director, National Board of Forensic Evaluators

Cost

$30 for NBFE members (i.e., CFMHEs and CFMHE applicants/candidates) and, for members of our partnering organizations (see Professional Partners for current listing)
$40 for non-members

Continuing Education Information

This webinar has been approved for 2.0 general contact hour(s) with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling, and the Florida Board of Psychology, CE Broker Tracking #20-913034 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823

NBFE is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content.

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy

Sound Preparation To Avoid Disqualification as an Expert Witness (2.0 CEs - CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1344933 • ACEP No. 6189) (03 Sep 2023)

Sun, 03 Sep 2023 18:00:00 GMT

Description:

This 2 hour webinar will help prepare the mental health expert to avoid common mistakes while preparing and testifying in court. The course involves sound tips on preparation before testifying and what is necessary to avoid disqualifying during testimony.

Learning Objectives:

Prepare the mental health professional with the necessary understanding before testifying as an expert in court.
Develop a foundation when forming their expert opinion.
Describe the importance of the opposing counsel’s “word traps.”
Develop and understanding of the experts position in the court process.

About the Presenter

Norman Hoffman, PhD, EdD, LMHC, LMFT, CFMHE, CCCE, CFBA, CFP

Dr. Hoffman had the boldness and courage to create a training and certification process paving the way for those seeking the status as psychiatrists and psychologists have. His dedication and persistence, despite systematic discrimination, made it possible for licensed professional counselors to have equal, if not elevated status in the field of forensic mental health.

Dr. Hoffman is considered a pioneer with his passion and creativity to develop the pattern for those who pursue a role as an expert forensic mental health expert witness.

Cost

$40 for NBFE members (i.e., CFMHEs and CFMHE applicants/candidates) and, for members of our partnering organizations please see Professional Partners for current listing)
$65 for Non-members

Continuing Education Information

ACEP No. 6189

Florida CE Broker Tracking # 20-1344933

CE Broker Provider #50-15823

NBFE is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content.

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

This workshop has been approved for 2 general hours with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling. CE Broker Tracking # 20-1344933 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Suitability and Fitness for Duty Evaluation (8.0 CEs - CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1096440 • ACEP No. 6189) (14 Sep 2023)

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 15:00:00 GMT

Description:

National news outlets (e.g., CNN, Fox News, NPR) and law enforcement organizations (e.g., International Association of Chiefs of Police) have reported declines in morale alongside national shortages in candidates seeking careers in law enforcement, and similar trends have been reported for paramedics, emergency medical technicians, and firefighters. National polling data reflect a strong desire for police reform coupled with a high level of support for law enforcement among Americans. More than 90% of police departments require candidates to undergo some form of psychological evaluation in the hiring process (i.e., suitability evaluations).

As public safety and fire and rescue agencies scramble to fill vacancies, the role of mental health professionals in suitability evaluations is all the more pertinent, balancing the need for filling vacancies with the importance of screening out candidates who are not suitable for the demands of these high-stakes occupations. Mental health professionals also play a critical role when an officer or other first responder is removed from duty in the aftermath of a critical incident and required to undergo evaluation before being considered for return to active duty (i.e., fitness for duty evaluations).

This eight-hour workshop brings police chiefs and mental health professionals together with the goal of enhancing the competency of mental health professionals specializing in both suitability or fitness for duty evaluations. The workshop is also one of the requirements for NBFE’s new Certified Suitability and Fitness for Duty Evaluator (CSFDE) credential,* which is designed to certify licensed mental health professionals (psychologists, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, counselors, clinical social workers, and marriage and family therapists) who have attained expert status in evaluating applicants for first responder public service occupations (i.e., law enforcement officer, firefighter, EMS/paramedic) as well as evaluating fist responders' mental fitness for duty.

*This workshop partially (but not fully) fulfills the requirements for the CSFDE credential. However, individuals are free to attend this workshop regardless of whether they intend to pursue the CSFDE credential. To view additional requirements for the CSFDE credential, click here. NBFE's Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluator (CFMHE) credential is a pre-requisite for the CSFDE credential.

Objectives:

Summarize legal and ethical guidelines impacting suitability and fitness for duty evaluations.
Articulate factors explaining the importance of and need for suitability and fitness for duty evaluations.
Conduct suitability evaluations for public safety and fire and rescue agencies while adhering to best practice guidelines.
Conduct fitness for duty evaluations for public safety and fire and rescue agencies while adhering to best practice guidelines.

About the Presenters and Panelists

Norman Hoffman, PhD, EdD, LMHC, LMFT, CFMHE, CCCE, CFBA, CFP (Presenter)

Aaron Norton, PhD, LMHC, LMFT, CFMHE, CFBA, CFP (Presenter)

Dr. Aaron Norton is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy serving as Executive Director of the National Board of Forensic Evaluators, Visiting Instructor at the University of South Florida's Department of Mental Health Law and Policy, Southern Regional Director for the American Mental Health Counselors Association (AMHCA), AMHCA Ethics Committee Liaison, and Chair of the Government Relations Committee of Florida Mental Health Counselors Association. He has 20 years of clinical and forensic experience at Integrity Counseling, Inc., where he has worked extensively with law enforcement officers and other first responders. He was awarded Mental Health Counselor of the Year by the American Mental Health Counselors Association and Counselor Educator of the Year by the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association in 2016, Researcher of the Year by Florida Mental Health Counselors Association in 2020, and has been published in several social science journals and professional magazines in clinical mental health counseling.

Chief Manuel J. Marino (Presenter)

Chief Manuel J. Marino was appointed as the City of Port Orange Police Department's Chief of Police on October 25, 2021. Chief Marino is a 27-year law enforcement officer who began his career with the Hollywood, Florida Police Department in April 1995. After serving as a police officer, neighborhood team leader and field training officer, Chief Marino was promoted to Sergeant in 2003, Lieutenant in 2008, and became a member of the command staff with his promotion to Major in 2012. In March of 2018, Chief Marino was promoted to Assistant Chief of Police and assumed command of the Investigations and Support Services Bureau where he served until his appointment with the City of Port Orange.

Chief Marino holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Public Administration from Barry University, and a Master of Arts in Administrative Leadership from the University of Oklahoma. In 2010, Chief Marino graduated from the 240th Session of the Federal Bureau of Investigation's National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. While at the FBI National Academy, Chief Marino also earned a Graduate Certificate in Criminal Justice Education from the University of Virginia. In 2015, Chief Marino graduated from the 61st Session of the Police Executive Research Forum's Senior Management Institute for Police in Boston, Massachusetts.

Throughout his career, Chief Marino has been the fortunate recipient of many internal and external awards, commendations, and letters of recognition. Among those are the Hollywood Police Department's Officer of the Year, Florida Retail Federation's State of Florida Officer of the Year and Florida Junior Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Young Police Officer.

Chief Marino is a member of the FBI National Academy Associates, International Association of Chiefs of Police, Police Executive Research Forum, Florida Police Chiefs Association, FBINAA Florida Chapter and the Volusia/Flagler Chiefs of Police Association.

Stephen K. Aldrich (Presenter)

Chief of Police (Retired)

City of Holly Hill, Florida

Chief Stephen K. Aldrich (Ret.) proudly served the citizens of Holly Hill, Florida for nearly 30 years. Beginning his career as police officer with the City of Holly Hill shortly after graduating from Daytona Beach Community College's Basic Law Enforcement Academy in 1991. Serving as a Patrol Officer then progressing quickly into a multi-agency Narcotic Unit as an Investigator. Promoting to the rank of Sergeant in 1998, he supervised the city's Criminal Investigation Division before transitioning to take on the challenge of starting the city's first Special Response Team. Promoted to the rank of Captain in 2008, he was responsible for all the daily operations of the Police Department's Criminal Investigation Division and Special Response Team. After obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration, from Columbia Southern University, he was promoted to serve as the Chief of Police for the City of Holly Hill. A position he held for seven years prior to retiring. He continues to be an active member of the FBI National Academy Association (238th Session) and continues to serve the citizens of Florida as an Auxiliary Florida Highway Patrol Trooper.

Dr. Brian Sheble, LCPC, LPC, CCMHC, CFMHE, CCCE, CCTP-II, C-PD, CDMDTP (Presenter)

Dr. Brian Sheble is a School Psychologist, Licensed Professional Counselor, and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who currently provides expert witness, consulting, assessment, counseling, and advocacy services for children, adolescents, and adults in his private practice, Growth Mindset Assessment and Counseling, LLC, located in Creve Coeur, MO. Brian earned his Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Psychology at the University of Missouri-St. Louis. Dr. Sheble has also received an Educational Specialist in School Psychology from the University of Missouri-St Louis, a Graduate Certificate in Educational Administration from the University of Southern Illinois at Edwardsville, a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling from Lindenwood University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Education also from Lindenwood University. He is the current President of the Missouri Mental Health Counselors Association, Treasurer-Elect for the Missouri Association of School Psychologists, and was previously an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Educational Psychology at the University of Missouri-St. Louis. Dr. Sheble is on the editorial review board for the Journal of Mental Health Counseling and Psychology in the Schools. Dr. Sheble is a National Certified School Psychologist, National Certified Counselor, Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluator, Certified Personality Disorders Treatment Professional, Certified Clinical Trauma Therapist-Level Two, and Certified Child Custody Evaluator. Dr. Sheble is licensed as a School Psychologist in Illinois, Missouri, and Arizona. Brian has also been a court-appointed counselor and licensed mental health evaluator in Missouri and Alaska. Dr. Sheble is also licensed as a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri, Alaska, and Georgia and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois.

Darwin P. Crosland, MC-MHC, LCMHC, CFMHE (Presenter)

Mr. Darwin P. Crosland is a highly skilled mental health professional with over 40 years of experience in the fields of behavioral sciences. He earned his associate of science degree from Snow College in Ephraim, Utah. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Social Work (BSW) with minors in Human Development and Child Development from Utah State University, Logan, Utah. He earned his Master of Counseling / Mental Health Counseling from the University of Phoenix in Salt Lake City, Utah. He has worked as a mental health professional in Utah, New Mexico, Colorado, Idaho, and Wyoming.

He started his career being trained at Provo Utah in theology and was as a clergyman providing marriage counseling in Nova Scotia Canada. Upon returning to the United States, he began his formal secular education. Upon earning his undergraduate BSW, he became a Child Protective Services Investigator. At the conclusion of earning his graduate degree he has worked at Oxbow Jail, implementing the Correctional Addiction Treatment Services (CATS) program. He also worked extensively with sex offenders at Utah State Prison. He also worked at Wyoming State Prison with inmates in general population.

He has earned certifications in treatment of adult sex offenders, adolescent sex offenders, as well as certifications in working with perpetrators and victims of domestic violence. He is nationally certified as a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Mental Health Specialist.

He was an adjunct professor at Eagle Gate College in Salt Lake City, Utah, teaching Human Development through the Life Span to Nursing students. He has been a guest lecturer at Trinidad State Jr. College in Trinidad, Colorado preparing nurses to effectively manage psychotic patients.

He is currently working at Clearfield Job Corps Center as a Center Mental Health Consultant and Substance Abuse Treatment Supervisor. He is the Founder and CEO of his own company, Crosland Forensics, Inc, located in Syracuse, Utah. He is trained as a Utah Designated Examiner.

He has held several titles throughout his career, Clinical Director, Chief HIPAA Compliance Officer, Center Director, Chief Financial Officer and others. His favorite title is dad. He has four adult girls, Anna, Grace, Faith, and Hope, who are his pride and joy. He has been married to the love of his life, Sue, for 37 years.

Dr. Kim Soban, PhD, LCMHC, CFMHE (Panelist)

Dr. Soban served as a High Point Police Officer for 15 years from 1983-1998. During her tenure at HPPD she worked as a patrol officer and was then assigned to special investigations where she specialized in the investigation of child and sexual abuse cases. In 1990, Dr. Soban was assigned as a detective in Homicide Division where she served for 8 years. Other duties included being a field training officer and serving as a hostage negotiator for 9 years. Dr. Soban taught criminal investigations in the BLET program and served as a member of the critical incident team that worked with officers involved in critical incidents.

In 2001, Dr. Soban was hired as the Director of Psychological Services at High Point University until 2009 when she was named the Clinical Director at Mental Health Associates of the Triad. Currently she supervises clinical therapists in outpatient services and oversees Destiny House, a psych-social rehabilitation program for severally and persistently mentally ill clients and court services.

Dr. Soban serves as a consultant for mental health and drug court. Dr. Soban is a certified forensic mental health evaluator and provides capacity to proceed evaluations for the courts. Dr. Soban also serves as the mental health consultant for the Guilford County Sheriff’s Department and the High Point Police Department. These duties include providing training for the peer support teams and mental health consultation for the negotiating/swat teams. Dr. Soban also evaluates officers involved in critical incidents to determine if a fitness for duty is necessary for them to return to work.

Tim Strickland, LPC, CFMHE, MAC, SAP, CPCS, CCS (Panelist)

My name is Tim Strickland. I grew up in Glennville, Georgia, and now reside in Statesboro, Georgia. I graduated from Georgia Southern University with a Masters Degree in Education Counseling in 1998 and have worked in the field of counseling for over 20 years. I have extensive experience working with both adolescents and adults with mental health and substance abuse issues. I am a Georgia Licensed Professional Counselor. I am a Georgia approved Clinical Evaluator and Treatment Provider for the DUI Intervention Program regulated by the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities. I have certifications in Relapse Prevention, Clinical Supervision, Forensic Mental Health Evaluations, and I am an Anger Management Specialist. I assist individuals in meeting requirements to get their driver licenses reinstated after multiple DUI's on their record or to meet adjudicated services for probated sentences. I am also certified by the Federal Department of Transportation to provide substance abuse services to employees that are in DOT Safety Sensitive Positions who may have tested positive for alcohol and/or drugs. As a Substance Abuse Professional, I serve as the initial point of contact to establish parameters of change necessary for an individual to safely return to duty via initial assessment and follow up sessions that are required by employers and the Federal government. Our Outpatient facilities offer affordable and quality programming to assist clients in addressing maladaptive behaviors associated with numerous mental health and substance abuse issues. In 2013, I was fortunate to be honored as Georgia's Licensed Professional Counselor Association’s Counselor of the Year for the development and oversight of a Long Term Residential Treatment facility and extensive work done with an Outpatient population to bring about positive changes in men and women who suffer from addiction in the Bulloch County area as a Treatment Provider for Bulloch Recovery Resources. I have brought my energy, insight, and professionalism to the forefront and established Creative Counseling Solutions, LLC (CCS).

We have the tools to meet all your RECOVERY needs is not just a slogan that is catchy and pertinent to counseling. Literally, Creative Counseling Solutions, LLC, can assist individuals with a multitude of needs in almost every aspect of the levels of care outlined by the American Society of Addiction Medicine, at an affordable cost! Whether it is to meet the conditions of a probated sentence, get driver licenses reinstated, or to profoundly change the direction of someone's life who has found themselves desperate for change in either in the Mental Health or Substance Abuse arena, we have a plan for you! I purposefully set the private fees for services to be in line with what most people would pay for a co-pay or deductible if they were insured AND have a sliding fee scale to assist those who are struggling financially. If it's time to steer your car in another direction, let us help with a road map of strategies that have been proven with our Evidenced-Based curriculum and years of experience on the highways of life offered through our counseling services. The Joint Commision recently awarded Creative Counseling Solutions, LLC-dba New Day Counseling the Behavioral Healthcare and Human Services Accreditation and we are a licensed outpatient treatment facility for the state of Georgia for Level and Level II services.

Cost

$250 for NBFE members (i.e., CFMHEs and CFMHE applicants/candidates) and, for members of our partnering organizations please see Professional Partners for current listing)
$300 for Non-members

Continuing Education Information

ACEP No. 6189

Florida CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1096440

CE Broker Provider #50-15823

NBFE is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content.

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

This workshop has been approved for 8 hours of continuing education (7 general hours, and 1 hour ethics/professional boundaries) with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling and the Florida Board of Psychology, CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1096440 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Trauma, Compassion Fatigue, Resiliency, and Law Enforcement (2.0 CEs, ACEP No. 6189 CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1107100 CE Broker Provider No. 50-15823) (14 Sep 2023)

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 18:00:00 GMT

Presenter

Norman E Hoffman, PhD, EdD, LMHC, LMFT, CFMHE, CCCE, CFBA, CFP

Dr. Hoffman is considered a pioneer with his passion and creativity to develop the pattern for those who pursue a role as an expert forensic mental health expert witness.

Today, as Clinical Director of the Counseling and Psychotherapy Center in Ormond Beach, Florida, Dr. Hoffman continues to break through conventional barriers to provide families with the help and guidance they need. But he has not forgotten his musical foundation. He credits music with inspiring his collaborative approach to working with parents and professionals, and he continues to perform and write the jazz that started it all.

Description

This webinar will provide an overview of trauma, vicarious trauma, and resiliency with respect to the experiences of law enforcement and other first responders.

Learning Objectives

Objective 1-Define vicarious trauma and traumatization

Objective 2-Define secondary traumatic stress, vicarious resilience; discuss how working with traumatized populations affect law enforcement staff; assess the impact of vicarious trauma on organizations; and identify particular strategies that enhance both personal and professional resilience.

Objective 3-Define compassion fatigue.

Objective 4-Identify characteristics of burnout, and resilience

Cost

$35 for NBFE members (i.e., CFMHEs and CFMHE applicants/candidates) and, for members of our partnering organizations please see Professional Partners for current listing)
$50 for Non-members

Continuing Education Information

ACEP No. 6189

CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1107100

CE Broker Provider No. 50-15823

This webinar has been approved for 2 General CEs with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling, and the Florida Board of Psychology.

NBFE is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content.

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy

Tips for Enhancing Your Forensic Mental Health Practice (2.0 CEs - CE Broker Tracking No. 20-634783 • ACEP No. 6189) (19 Jun 2024)

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 16:00:00 GMT

Forensic mental health evaluation is a meaningful, impactful, stimulating, and lucrative specialization within the broader mental health profession. Clinicians sometimes do well with learning how to produce quality forensic evaluation reports and to provide skilled expert testimony in court while struggling with the more practical aspects of building their forensic practice.

This unprecedented program will provide you with a plethora of tips for making your forensic mental health practice far more lucrative, so that you can continue to do the quality work that you love so much.

Learning Objectives

Objective 1 Learn methods of gaining more attorney referrals

Objective 2 Points on developing a more attractive resume

Objective 3 Become more cognizant of what attorney's are looking for

Objective 4 Develop a lucrative niche

About the Presenters

Norman Hoffman, Ph.D., Ed.D., LMHC, LMFT, CCMHC, CFMHE, CFBA, CCCE

Dr. Norman E. Hoffman – a highly regarded psychotherapist, president of the National Board of Forensic Evaluators, Inc. a nonprofit public charity, and a board-certified mental health counselor Dr. Hoffman is in full-time private practice in Ormond Beach, Florida, both as a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and Mental Health Counselor.

Dr. Hoffman began his work with the Devereux Foundation in 1963, specializing as a music therapist for children. In 1969, he then completed a one-year clinical internship at the Menninger Memorial Hospital in Kansas. That experience led to his first book, Hear the Music! A New Approach to Mental Health. His work in the field of organic brain damage led to The Hoffman Organicity Test.

From the time of his work at the Hazleton/Nanticoke MH/MR Center in Pennsylvania, in 1976, Dr. Hoffman assisted in the development, training and of child custody evaluations between the mental health center and the Luzerne/Wyoming County Circuit Court. He is an expert witness in the field of forensic mental health evaluations, child custody disputes, and competency assessments throughout the United States. Dr. Norm is a qualified and approved Parenting Coordinator as well as a former Florida Family Law Supreme Court Mediator.

Michael Jeffrey, LPC, LMFT, CFMHE

Michael F Jeffrey was an army brat and traveled the US and ended up graduating high school in Paris, France. After college he became a VA Probation and Parole Officer for the next 31 years. While a PO he became fascinated with drugs and addiction and eventually wrote the syllabus used by probation and parole serviced for their basic drug and alcohol training and taught the class for 12 years. Realizing he also had a fascination for mental health he became an LPC a year before he retired in 1999.

Continuing Education Information

This workshop has been approved for 2 hours of continuing education with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling and the Florida Board of Psychology, CE Broker Tracking # 20-634783 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Differential Diagnosis Academy: Sharpening Your Diagnostic Skills (8.0 CEs CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1289640 - CE Broker Provider No. 50-15823) (31 May 2025)

Sat, 31 May 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Description

Do you feel insecure about your diagnoses? Thinking about expanding your practice to include psychological testing or forensic evaluation? Or maybe you’re just looking to sharpen your diagnostic skills? Want to arrive at an accurate diagnosis when working with clients with complicated symptoms presentations?

Clinicians are often trained in graduate school with seamless, "cookie-cutter" case examples, but in the real world, clients often don't present with "textbook" presentations of symptoms that neatly fall into a particular disorder.

Many symptoms of mental disorders are "overlapping," meaning that the same symptom may be listed under several disorders. How do clinicians differentiate one disorder from another? What sources of data might you base your conclusions on? If you wanted to venture into forensic evaluations, mandated employer evaluations, bariatric surgery evaluations, and disability-related evaluations, what standards and tools should be used?

This eight-hour workshop was designed to equip you with practical tools for differential diagnosis, providing an overview of malpractice related to improper diagnosis, root-cause analysis, the "essential features" of commonly misdiagnosed disorders, guidelines for evaluation and testing, the American Psychiatric Association’s six-step process for differential diagnosis, four categories of sources of data that can be used to arrive at conclusions, and an introduction to the APA’s cross cutting symptom measures. Participants will learn to use diagnostic decision trees to arrive at a diagnosis for real case examples and will be provided with sample formats for both clinical and forensic evaluation reports. Finally, you’ll learn how to bill insurance companies and other third-party payers for more in-depth evaluation services.

Learning Objectives

Adhere to ethical and professional standards for assessment, evaluation, and testing.

Write a quality clinical or forensic evaluation report.

Implement the APA’s 6-step differential diagnosis process.

Identify four categories of data that can be used to inform conclusions.

Presenter

Aaron Norton, PhD, LMHC, LMFT, CFMHE, CFBA

Dr. Aaron Norton is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with certifications in addictions, alcohol and drug counseling, rehabilitation counseling, clinical mental health counseling, trauma treatment, forensic mental health evaluation, forensic behavioral analysis, and forensic psychometry. He serves asExecutive Director of the NationalBoard of Forensic Evaluators,Assistant Professor of Instruction at the University of South Dept. of Mental Health Law & Policy,Southern Regional Director, Ethics Committee Liaison, andInternational Counseling Task Force Chair for the AmericanMental Health Counselors Association, and Chair of theGovernment Relations Committee for the Florida MentalHealth Counselors Association. He co-authored the ForensicEvaluation section of the “AMHCA Standards for the Practice of Clinical Mental Health Counseling,” authored the proposal for AMHCA’s Clinical Mental Health Specialist in ForensicEvaluation (CMHS-FE) credential, served on the expert panel that created the standards and written exam for the FloridaCertification Board’s Certified Telehealth Practitioner (CTP)credential, and has been published in several journals and professional magazines. He has 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist and clinical supervisor.

Cost
$150 for NBFE members (i.e., CFMHEs and CFMHE applicants/candidates) and, for members of our partnering organizations please see Professional Partners for current listing)
$180 for Non-members

Continuing Education Information

ACEP No. 6189

Florida CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1289640

CE Broker Provider No. 50-15823

The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) has been approved by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6189. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. NBFE is solely responsible for all aspects of the program. NBFE is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content. NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

This workshop has been approved for 7.0 general hours, and 1.0 ethics/professional boundaries hours, with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling and the Florida Board of Psychology, CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1289640

(CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Balancing the Roles of Care, Custody, and Control: The Challenges of a Mental Health Professional Working with Incarcerated or Paroled Individuals (1 CE - ACEP No. 6189 Florida CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1331603 CE Broker Provider No. 50-15823) (02 Oct 2025)

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

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Description

Working within the correctional setting or with parolees can provide additional challenges to the mental health professional. Care is our primary focus, but additionally the responsibilities of custody and control become important aspects of our work (Houser et al., 2019).

Within the correctional setting as well as working in the outpatient setting with parolees, mental health professionals now need to incorporate considerations of legal restrictions placed on the individual to support their mental health treatment (Houser et al., 2019; Lurigio, 2001; Matejkowski & Ostermann, 2015; Ostermann & Matejkowski, 2014). Understanding and being able to apply custody and control to our work with the clients in these settings is important and doing so without sacrificing the necessary therapeutic alliance essential (Gayman et al., 2018, Owens et al., 2011, Stringer, 2019).

This webinar will provide an overview of the three main responsibilities of mental health professionals working with inmates or paroles: Care, Custody, and Control, while proving practical suggestions on how to incorporate these into our practice all while supporting the recovery of mental health.

Learning Objectives

1: Evaluate the role of the mental health counselor when working within the correctional setting or with parole clients.

2: Assess the importance of the various roles of the mental health counselor when working with correctional or parole clients regarding care, custody, and control.

3: Describe the alignment of the various responsibilities of care, custody, and control and how to manage these while supporting a therapeutic alliance in mental health treatment.

4: Recognize and appraise own perceptions of the responsibilities of care, custody, and control within mental health services and forensic evaluation in the correctional setting or with parole clients to increase self-evaluation and reduce biases.

Presenter

Tricia M. Mikolon, PhD, CRC, LPC(PA), BC-TMH

Tricia M. Mikolon, PhD, CRC, LPC, BC-TMH earned her PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision from Regent University, her master’s degree is in Rehabilitation Counseling from the University of Scranton, and her Bachelor of Science degree is in Psychology from Elizabethtown College. She is a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and holds an LPC in Pennsylvania as well as board certification in telemental health (BC-TMH). Dr. Mikolon worked for over 10 years with probation/parole cases, served as a court-appointed evaluator, and retired from a 20-year career in the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections as a psychological services specialist. Her interests include correctional fatigue, the impact of self-definition and coping skills on holistic recovery, and the use of art therapy techniques in counseling. She is employed in the Counseling Department at the University of the Cumberlands as an assistant professor and has been on numerous dissertation committees. She has authored works on rehabilitation counseling and corrections fatigue, as well as online counseling and supervision, online teaching, and the dissertation process. Dr. Mikolon has presented on the topics of corrections fatigue, motivational interviewing, multiculturalism and social justice in the online classroom, the importance of self-care in counseling, and co-occurring disorders.

Cost

$20 for NBFE members (i.e., CFMHEs and CFMHE applicants/candidates) and, for members of our partnering organizations please see Professional Partners for current listing)

$40 for Non-members

Continuing Education Information

ACEP No. 6189

Florida CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1331603

CE Broker Provider No. 50-15823

The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) has been approved by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6189. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. NBFE is solely responsible for all aspects of the program. NBFE is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content. NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

This workshop has been approved for 1 general hours with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling. CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1331603

(CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Cannabis Induced Psychosis: Recent Trends in Cannabis Use (3 CEs - ACEP No. 6189 Florida CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1331588 CE Broker Provider No. 50-15823) (02 Nov 2025)

Sun, 02 Nov 2025 04:00:00 GMT

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Description

Cannabis is the most used substance nationwide after tobacco and alcohol (NIH, 2020). Approximately 16 million Americans report regularly using cannabis (NIH, 2020). The vast majority of cannabis users begin using during their teenage years (NIH). Problems have arisen with the broad legalization of pot, including a failure to account for increased toxicity and the dangerous effects on early teens and young adults. Rapid increases in anxiety, paranoia, and psychosis-related hospitalizations from cannabis are causing alarm.

Cannabis has been shown to increase early-onset schizophrenia by 3 years. As well, the spectrum of psychotic disorders, including schizoaffective disorder, schizophreniform disorder, brief psychotic disorder, delusional disorder, and substance-induced psychotic disorder have been stark and concerning. Cannabis is found to be linked to the onset of bipolar disorder with psychotic features and increases in the onset of symptoms of mania.

Learning Objectives

Understanding and discussing the trends and increase in cannabis use amongst adolescents and young adults.

Understanding and discussing the difference between traditional cannabis and high concentrate THC oil.

Understanding the impact of chronic cannabis use on anxiety, depressive disorders, and reduction of social and occupational functioning.

Understanding the correlation of cannabis use related to early-onset psychosis and initial psychotic breaks.

Understanding and discussing interventions of cannabis use disorder and how to treat it.

Presenter

John Puls, LCSW, MCAP

John Puls began working with individuals suffering from substance use disorder and acute mental illness in 2013 in a support staff role. During this time, John completed his bachelor’s degree in social work from Florida Atlantic University while working as a case manager. John was accepted to the advanced standing master’s in a social work program at Florida Atlantic University and is currently a licensed clinical social worker. While working as a primary therapist in a residential substance use disorder facility, John became a master's level certified addiction professional (MCAP) through the Florida Certification Board. Additionally, John is passionate about educating social work students and serves as an adjunct professor at the School of Social Work at Florida Atlantic University. John owns a private psychotherapy, crisis intervention, and case management practice in Boca Raton, FL.

Cost

$40 for NBFE members (i.e., CFMHEs and CFMHE applicants/candidates) and, for members of our partnering organizations please see Professional Partners for current listing)

$65 for Non-members

Continuing Education Information

ACEP No. 6189

Florida CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1331588

CE Broker Provider No. 50-15823

The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) has been approved by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6189. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. NBFE is solely responsible for all aspects of the program. NBFE is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content. NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

This workshop has been approved for 3 general hours with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling. CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1331588 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Youth Who Are Sexually Abusive and Risk Assessment: What You Need to Know (3.0 CEs - CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1339207 • ACEP No. 6189) (03 Nov 2025)

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Description

This webinar will review the current research findings on youth of all ages, (including youth with low intellectual functioning), who are found to engage in persistent coarse sexual improprieties, and/or harmful, problematic sexual behaviors including sexually abusive behaviors. A new area of sexual abuse, technology‐facilitated youth sexual abusers (TFYSA), will be discussed. Differentiations related to gender diversity and youth will be delineated including risk levels and family histories. Available assessment tools for youth ages 2-19 years will be compared, differentiating those that are standardized (developed according to the scientific method) versus those that are not (substandard tools—colander approach).

Learning Objectives

1. Describe the empirical study findings on youth of all ages (including youth with low intellectual functioning), who are found to engage in persistent coarse sexual improprieties, and/or harmful, problematic sexual behaviors, including sexual abusive behaviors.

2. Compare and contrast empirical study findings between male, female, and gender diverse youth who are sexually abusive.

3. Summarize empirical study findings differentiating risk levels, according to gender and age groups, including youth with low intellectual functioning.

Presenter

L.C. Miccio-Fonseca,Ph.D.

Dr. L.C. Miccio-Fonseca is highly specialized in assessment of individuals who are sexually abusive, or who have sex disorders (the paraphilias), maintaining a practice in Southern California. Her ongoing research on individuals who are sexually abusive has spanned over 40 years. It includes a 7-year research project comparing individuals who are sexually abusive and sexual abuse victims, and the construction and validation of the innovative risk assessment tool MEGA♪ with multiple cross-validation studies on close to 4,000 youth with coarse sexual improprieties and/or sexually abusive behaviors. MEGA meets the best standards of forensic practice for assessing adjudicated and non-adjudicated youth, including those with low intellectual functioning.
Dr. Miccio-Fonseca’s research has been selected for presentation in international conferences in Caracas, Venezuela, Toronto Canada, and Rome Italy, and published in multiple peer review journals including special issues of the Journal of Psychology and Human Sexuality and the Journal of Child Sexual Abuse.

Cost
$40 for NBFE members (i.e., CFMHEs and CFMHE applicants/candidates) and, for members of our partnering organizations please see Professional Partners for current listing)
$65 for Non-members

Continuing Education Information

ACEP No. 6189

Florida CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1339207

CE Broker Provider No. 50-15823

The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) has been approved by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6189. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. NBFE is solely responsible for all aspects of the program. NBFE is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content. NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

This workshop has been approved for 3.0 general hours, with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling. CE Broker Tracking # 20-1339207 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Innovative Horizons: The Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Mental Health Evaluation (2.0 CEs - CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1343018 • ACEP No. 6189) (03 Nov 2025)

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Description

Early in the COVID-19 pandemic, mental health professionals scrambled to embrace a technology that only 5 to 10% of them had previously dabbled in—telehealth. Just as many of us felt like we’d achieved at least a moderate level of competency in telehealth, artificial intelligence (AI) emerged as yet another mysterious, exciting, and—perhaps—deeply concerning technology to have to contend with, creating a slew of relevant questions: Can AI help me write my reports or with differential diagnosis? With writing articles for publication? Does AI perpetuate ethnoracial stereotypes? Is it true that some clients are recording their interactions with mental health professionals (without the clinicians consent) and then selling those recordings to tech developers who are working on developing AI-powered therapy bots? Will AI make mental health professionals obsolete? Is Cyberdyne finally coming to destroy us all? (Okay, that last one’s a little over the top…or is it?). This presentation was designed to offer an overview of how AI can (and already has) impacted mental health evaluation, as well as strategies for ethical and impactful use of AI from authoritative organizations within the mental health professions.

Learning Objectives

1. Define and describe artificial intelligence (AI) and some of the ways AI has been used by mental health professionals.

2. Identify and describe emerging issues (including benefits and drawbacks) related to the use of AI in mental health evaluation.

3. Implement a list of guidelines and strategies for ethical and effective use of AI in evaluation.

Presenter

Aaron Norton, PhD, LMHC, LMFT, CRC, CFMHE, CFBA, CFP

Dr. Aaron Norton is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with certifications in addictions, alcohol and drug counseling, rehabilitation counseling, clinical mental health counseling, trauma treatment, forensic mental health evaluation, forensic behavioral analysis, telehealth, and forensic psychometry. He serves as Executive Director of the National Board of Forensic Evaluators, Assistant Professor of Instruction at the University of South Dept. of Mental Health Law & Policy, International Counseling Task Force Chair for the American Mental Health Counselors Association, and Chair of the Government Relations Committee for the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association. Dr. Norton has particular interest in the use of technology in counseling and has written, taught, and presented on the use of virtual reality, telehealth, artificial intelligence, and computers in counseling. He co-authored a set of universal telehealth guidelines for a joint AMHCA-International Association of Counseling task force, served on the expert panel that created the standards and written exam for the Florida Certification Board’s Certified Telehealth Practitioner (CTP) credential, and co-wrote a revision to the AMHCA Code of Ethics clarifying ethical standards for the use of artificial intelligence in counseling. He has 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist, clinical supervisor, researcher, and professor.

Cost
$40 for NBFE members (i.e., CFMHEs and CFMHE applicants/candidates) and, for members of our partnering organizations please see Professional Partners for current listing)
$65 for Non-members

Continuing Education Information

ACEP No. 6189

Florida CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1343018

CE Broker Provider No. 50-15823

The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) has been approved by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6189. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. NBFE is solely responsible for all aspects of the program. NBFE is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content. NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

This workshop has been approved for 2.0 general hours with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling. CE Broker Tracking # 20-1343018 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Dr. Marc J. Ackerman Presents "Your Day in Court: Preparation and Challenges" (2.0 CEs - CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1340147 • ACEP No. 6189) (07 Nov 2025)

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT

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Description

This webinar is designed to prepare for direct and cross examination, how to prepare your file for Court, and how to understand and avoid Daubert Challenges.

Learning Objectives

1. Understand Daubert and how it applies to your case.

2. Learn appropriate courtroom demeanor.

3. Learn how to deal with direct and cross examination.

4. Learn how to prepare for Court.

Presenter

Marc J. Ackerman Ph.D., Professor Emeritus

Dr. Ackerman has been involved in thousands of forensic psychology cases, has given over 100 workshops worldwide and published dozens of articles over the past 40 years as part of his international practice. He is a founding faculty member of the WI School of Prof Psych, where he developed the forensic course sequence and was awarded Professor Emeritus status. He has authored or coauthored 17 editions of forensic psychology books. In addition, he is the former chair of the Wisconsin Ethics Committee and published research that defines the standard of forensic practice. He is still active in all of these pursuits.

Cost
$40 for NBFE members (i.e., CFMHEs and CFMHE applicants/candidates) and, for members of our partnering organizations please see Professional Partners for current listing)
$65 for Non-members

Continuing Education Information

ACEP No. 6189

Florida CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1340147

CE Broker Provider No. 50-15823

The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) has been approved by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6189. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. NBFE is solely responsible for all aspects of the program. NBFE is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content. NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

This workshop has been approved for 2.0 general hours, with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling. CE Broker Tracking # 20-1340147 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Dr. Marc J. Ackerman Presents "Risk Management and Ethics in Forensic Mental Health" (2.0 CEs - CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1340150 • ACEP No. 6189) (07 Nov 2025)

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT

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Description

No matter what form of mental health practice you have, you will engage in forensic issues, such as divorce, personal injury, substance abuse, maltreatment... Risk management involves ethical issues such as record keeping, confidentiality, conflicts of interest, dual relationships...

Learning Objectives

1. Learn how to avoid malpractice suits and board complaints.

2. Understand confidentiality and appropriate record keeping.

3. Understand multiple relationships and conflicts of interest.

4. Learn how to deal with contentious clients.

Presenter

Marc J. Ackerman Ph.D., Professor Emeritus

Dr. Ackerman has been involved in thousands of forensic psychology cases, has given over 100 workshops worldwide and published dozens of articles over the past 40 years as part of his international practice. He is a founding faculty member of the WI School of Prof Psych, where he developed the forensic course sequence and was awarded Professor Emeritus status. He has authored or coauthored 17 editions of forensic psychology books. In addition, he is the former chair of the Wisconsin Ethics Committee and published research that defines the standard of forensic practice. He is still active in all of these pursuits.

Cost
$40 for NBFE members (i.e., CFMHEs and CFMHE applicants/candidates) and, for members of our partnering organizations please see Professional Partners for current listing)
$65 for Non-members

Continuing Education Information

ACEP No. 6189

Florida CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1340150

CE Broker Provider No. 50-15823

The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) has been approved by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6189. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. NBFE is solely responsible for all aspects of the program. NBFE is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content. NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

This workshop has been approved for 2.0 general hours, with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling. CE Broker Tracking # 20-1340150 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Dr. Marc J. Ackerman Presents "Parental Alienation and Forensic Evaluation: Variables to Address and How to Address Them" (2.0 CEs - CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1340152 • ACEP No. 6189) (07 Nov 2025)

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT

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Description

This webinar will address the history of parental alienation issues. The major focus will be on new approaches and new dynamics that have been reported in the past several years. It will also address protocols to be utilized in alienation evaluations.

Learning Objectives

1. Understand what alienation is.

2. Understand the difference between alienation and estrangement.

3. Learn about interventions that are available.

4. How to work with alienated and alienating parents.

Presenter

Marc J. Ackerman Ph.D., Professor Emeritus

Dr. Ackerman has been involved in thousands of forensic psychology cases, has given over 100 workshops worldwide and published dozens of articles over the past 40 years as part of his international practice. He is a founding faculty member of the WI School of Prof Psych, where he developed the forensic course sequence and was awarded Professor Emeritus status. He has authored or coauthored 17 editions of forensic psychology books. In addition, he is the former chair of the Wisconsin Ethics Committee and published research that defines the standard of forensic practice. He is still active in all of these pursuits.

Cost
$40 for NBFE members (i.e., CFMHEs and CFMHE applicants/candidates) and, for members of our partnering organizations please see Professional Partners for current listing)
$65 for Non-members

Continuing Education Information

ACEP No. 6189

Florida CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1340152

CE Broker Provider No. 50-15823

The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) has been approved by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6189. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. NBFE is solely responsible for all aspects of the program. NBFE is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content. NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

This workshop has been approved for 2.0 general hours, with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling. CE Broker Tracking # 20-1340152 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Evaluating Client Suggestibility - Assessing Influence of Authority on Confessions (2.0 CEs - CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1340278 • ACEP No. 6189) (07 Nov 2025)

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Description

Join us for an enlightening and interactive workshop designed specifically for mental health professionals looking to deepen their understanding the basics of suggestibility in the context of forensic evaluations.

Learning Objectives

1. Define key concepts related to suggestibility and its significance in forensic evaluations.

2. Examine various assessment tools and techniques used to measure suggestibility in forensic evaluations.

3. Evaluate biopsychosocial aspects influencing suggestibility.

4. Examine a case using evaluation of suggestibility.

Presenter

Dr. Brian Sheble NCSP, LPC LCPC, NCC, CCMHC, CFMHE, CCCE,

CFBA, CFP

Dr. Brian Sheble is a School Psychologist, Licensed Professional Counselor, and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who currently provides expert witness, consulting, assessment, counseling, and advocacy services for children, adolescents, and adults in his private practice, Growth Mindset Assessment and Counseling, LLC, located in Creve Coeur, MO. Brian earned his Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Psychology at the University of Missouri-St. Louis. Dr. Sheble has also received an Educational Specialist in School Psychology from the University of Missouri-St Louis, a Graduate Certificate in Educational Administration from the University of Southern Illinois at Edwardsville, a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling from Lindenwood University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Education also from Lindenwood University. He is the current President of the Missouri Mental Health Counselors Association, Treasurer-Elect for the Missouri Association of School Psychologists, and was previously an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Educational Psychology at the University of Missouri-St. Louis. Dr. Sheble is on the editorial review board for the Journal of Mental Health Counseling and Psychology in the Schools. Dr. Sheble is a National Certified School Psychologist, National Certified Counselor, Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluator, Certified Personality Disorders Treatment Professional, Certified Clinical Trauma Therapist-Level Two, and Certified Child Custody Evaluator. Dr. Sheble is licensed as a School Psychologist in Illinois, Missouri, and Arizona. Brian has also been a court-appointed counselor and licensed mental health evaluator in Missouri and Alaska. Dr. Sheble is also licensed as a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri, Alaska, and Georgia and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois.

Cost
$40 for NBFE members (i.e., CFMHEs and CFMHE applicants/candidates) and, for members of our partnering organizations please see Professional Partners for current listing)
$65 for Non-members

Continuing Education Information

ACEP No. 6189

Florida CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1340278

CE Broker Provider No. 50-15823

The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) has been approved by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6189. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. NBFE is solely responsible for all aspects of the program. NBFE is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content. NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

This workshop has been approved for 2.0 general hours, with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling. CE Broker Tracking # 20-1340278 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Performing Fitness for Duty Evaluations in the Workplace: Avoiding Pitfalls, Best Practices, & Ensuring ADA Compliance (1.5 CEs - CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1340279 • ACEP No. 6189) (07 Nov 2025)

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Description

When mental health issues present within an employee in the workplace, it's invaluable to understand best practices for performing an employer requested Fitness for Duty evaluation. To protect all parties involved, it is paramount that the evaluating clinician understand their role in performing Fitness for Duty evaluations. Additionally, understanding the guidelines offered by The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the US Equal Opportunity Employment Commission (EEOC) can help clinicians ensure that an employee is appropriate and meets criteria for a workplace Fitness for Duty evaluation and avoid potential litigation. This training will help licensed clinicians better understand when a Fitness for Duty evaluation for an established employee is warranted, review ADA and EEOC requirements for performing an evaluation, the importance of the referral call, and best practices for engaging in the Fitness for Duty evaluation.

Learning Objectives

1. Describe what a Fitness for Duty evaluation is and the reasons why a FFDE may occur.

2. Differentiate between an employee who has behavioral concerns and poor performance versus an employee who demonstrates the necessary criteria for a FFDE to occur.

3. Explain best practices in performing a FFDE (what to include in your report, what not to include, importance of the referral call, the evaluating clinician's role in a FFDE).

4. Explain the guidelines imposed by the ADA and EEOC for performing Fitness for Duty evaluations for an established employee.

Presenter

Rachel Ann Dine, LMHC, LPC, LPCC, CFMHE, CFP

Rachel Ann Dine is licensed as a Professional Counselor in Florida, Virginia, and California. She is a Registered Supervisor for Residents in Counseling in Virginia, Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluator, Certified Neuroscience Informed Practitioner, and Certified Forensic Psychometrist. Rachel Ann has worked in the mental health field since 2005 in a variety of settings from crisis hotline, long term residential and acute stabilization psychiatric hospitals, military and family life counseling, emergency department as behavioral health support, and has written evidence-based educational courses on psychiatric disorders for hospital employees. Rachel Ann has owned and operated her mental health private practice, Humanitas Counseling and Consulting, since 2017 and currently works with counseling clients in Virginia and California; and offers select forensic and Fitness for Duty evaluations for Virginia residents and agencies. Since obtaining the CFMHE credential in 2021, Rachel Ann has had the opportunity to provide a multitude of Fitness for Duty evaluations for established employees in various private and state agency settings. She is passionate about providing the highest standard of practice when engaging in the Fitness for Duty evaluation process, consulting with agencies on mental health issues in the workplace, and ensuring that necessary ADA and EEOC guidelines for engaging in the FFDE process are upheld to protect an employee’s rights.

Cost
$25 for NBFE members (i.e., CFMHEs and CFMHE applicants/candidates) and, for members of our partnering organizations please see Professional Partners for current listing)
$45 for Non-members

Continuing Education Information

ACEP No. 6189

Florida CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1340279

CE Broker Provider No. 50-15823

The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) has been approved by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6189. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. NBFE is solely responsible for all aspects of the program. NBFE is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content. NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

This workshop has been approved for 1.5 general hours, with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling. CE Broker Tracking # 20-1340279 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Casting the Net: Considerations for Evaluating and Testifying in Catfishing Cases (1 CE - CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1308523 • ACEP No. 6189) (08 Nov 2025)

Sat, 08 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT

On-Demand

Description

"Catfishing" is a relatively new phenomenon. As such, there are complex, and significant, psychological, ethical, and legal factors associated with evaluating both "Catfishing" perpetrators and victims. This webinar will provide in-depth information related to the conceptualization and evaluation of victims, but especially perpetrators, to assist mental health professionals to begin to navigate the "wild west" of digitalized manipulation.

Learning Objectives

1. Participants will identify predictors of Catfish perpetrators and victims.

2. Participants will discuss implications regarding the evaluation and assessment of perpetrators and victims.

3. Participants will describe testifying and legal complications regarding Catfishing cases.

Presenter(s)

Eric J. Camden, PhD,

LPC, NCC, ACS

Dr. Camden's extensive clinical journey began by supporting adolescents at the local Community Services Board. With a Master's degree in hand, he dedicated years to serving adolescents at a state acute hospital and later specialized in counseling adolescent males with intellectual disabilities at a residential treatment center. Having supervised the clinical team,

Dr. Camden now thrives in a faculty position. His research spans burnout, attachment, online deception, and advocacy for adolescents with autism and intellectual disabilities. An active member of professional counseling organizations, Dr. Camden has provided counseling to diverse clients, including catfish perpetrators, and conducted assessments for the Social Security Administration.

Derek Parker, PhD, LPC

Dr. Derek Parker, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania, boasts a rich 15-year career as a master’s level clinician, Clinical Supervisor, and agency Director. Specializing in children, adolescents, families, and addiction, his dedication extends to the emerging age adult population, addiction, and clinical supervision.

Currently serving as an assistant professor in the Department of Counselor Education and Family Studies, Dr. Parker actively contributes to state, regional, and national conferences. His research focuses on sexual shame, emerging age adulthood, and clinical supervision. In leadership roles, he is the President of the Pennsylvania Association of Counselor Education and Supervision (PACES), Communications Co-Chairman of the North Atlantic Region Association for Counselor Education and Supervision (NARACES), and a member of the Editorial Review Board of the Journal of the Pennsylvania Counseling Association (JPCA).

Cost
$20 for NBFE members (i.e., CFMHEs and CFMHE applicants/candidates) and, for members of our partnering organizations please see Professional Partners for current listing)
$35 for Non-members

Continuing Education Information

ACEP No. 6189

Florida CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1308523

CE Broker Provider No. 50-15823

The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) has been approved by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6189. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. NBFE is solely responsible for all aspects of the program.
NBFE is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content. NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.
This workshop has been approved for 1 general hour(s) with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling. CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1308523 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Ketamine, Kava, and Kratom: A Comprehensive Overview for Professionals (2 CEs - CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1352946 • ACEP No. 6189) (20 Jan 2026)

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Description

In recent years, the use of ketamine, kava, and kratom has surged, driven by their reported benefits and growing popularity in various communities. This two-hour presentation aims to equip healthcare professionals with a comprehensive understanding of these substances, focusing on new trends, pharmacological effects, reported benefits, and potential negative consequences. The session will begin by exploring the rise of ketamine, kava, and kratom, highlighting their increasing prevalence in both clinical settings and recreational use. Participants will delve into the unique properties of each substance, gaining insights into their mechanisms of action and reported therapeutic benefits. Attention will then shift to the adverse effects and risks associated with these substances, providing a balanced view of their impact on physical and mental health. Participants will learn about the legal and professional implications of ketamine, kava, and kratom use, ensuring they are well-informed about the potential challenges in their practice. Finally, the presentation will cover intervention and treatment strategies for individuals using these substances. Practical approaches to screening, assessing, and managing use will be discussed, empowering professionals to provide effective support and guidance to their paitents. By the end of this session, participants will be well-equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to address the complexities of ketamine, kava, and kratom use in their professional practice.

Learning Objectives

Objective 1: Identify and describe the new trends and rise in the use of ketamine, kava, and kratom.

Objective 2: Understand the pharmacological effects, reported benefits, and negative side effects of ketamine, kava, and kratom.

Objective 3: Recognize the implications of these substances for healthcare professionals, including potential risks and legal considerations.

Objective 4: Develop effective intervention and treatment strategies for individuals using ketamine, kava, and kratom.

Presenter

John Puls, LCSW, MCAP

John has been dedicated to making a meaningful impact in mental health and substance use disorder since 2013, starting as support staff. To expand his knowledge and skills, he joined the advanced standing master’s in social work (MSW) program at Florida Atlantic University, completing his degree in May 2017. John is now a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and a master’s certified addiction professional (MCAP). John also shares his expertise with the next generation of social workers as an adjunct professor at Florida Atlantic University’s School of Social Work. Additionally, he serves as a qualified expert witness, conducting forensic reviews for cases involving substance use disorder and mental health.

Cost
$60 for NBFE members (i.e., CFMHEs and CFMHE applicants/candidates) and, for members of our partnering organizations please see Professional Partners for current listing)
$85 for Non-members

Continuing Education Information

ACEP No. 6189

Florida CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1352946

CE Broker Provider No. 50-15823

The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) has been approved by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6189. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. NBFE is solely responsible for all aspects of the program. NBFE is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content. NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

This workshop has been approved for 2.0 general hours, with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling and the Florida Board of Psychology, CE Broker Tracking # 20-1352946 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

How To Prepare For Depositions: How to Avoid Impeachment and Disqualification (2.0 CEs - CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1338355 • ACEP No. 6189) (31 Jan 2026)

Sat, 31 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Description

It is obvious that sometime during your lifetime you will become involved either in court, being deposed or as a witness for your patient.
Being deposed can be one of the most challenging experiences in the legal process. Preparation is the key to ensuring confidence, clarity, and credibility. In this webinar, you will learn essential strategies for approaching a deposition with professionalism and composure. We’ll cover what to expect, common pitfalls to avoid, and practical techniques for answering questions effectively. Whether you are a professional, expert witness, or simply want to strengthen your understanding of the process, this session will equip you with the tools you need to be prepared and poised under pressure.
Your case can be won or lost during a deposition.

Learning Objectives

1. Prepare for difficult deposition questions.

2. Describe prinicipal facts that guide depositions.

3. Describe “rabbit holes” associated with depositions.

4. List "tricks" the opposing counsel may use during depositions.

Presenter

Norman E Hoffman, PhD, EdD, LMHC, LMFT

A man who saw the potential, an innovator, pushing the boundaries to advance the cause of licensed professional counselor in the field of forensic mental health. He had the vision, the success in his field, sometimes overcoming great challenges to pave the way for those seeking status and professional recognition in a field of forensic mental health that has in the past been inaccessible.

Dr. Hoffman is considered a pioneer with his passion and creativity to develop the pattern for those who pursue a role as an expert forensic mental health expert witness, having founded the National Board of Forensic Evaluators, created the Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluator (CFMHE) credential, developed the Hoffman Organicity Test (HOT) to differentiate between schizophrenia and other organic brain disorders.

Dr. Hoffman developed and validated the Child & Adolescent Forensic Screening Inventory (CAFSI), meticulously designed to support professionals in conducting thorough and effective clinical interviews with children and adolescents within forensic contexts, ensuring that critical information is gathered accurately and efficiently.

Cost
$40 for NBFE members (i.e., CFMHEs and CFMHE applicants/candidates) and, for members of our partnering organizations please see Professional Partners for current listing)
$65 for Non-members

Continuing Education Information

ACEP No. 6189

Florida CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1338355

CE Broker Provider No. 50-15823

The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) has been approved by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6189. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. NBFE is solely responsible for all aspects of the program. NBFE is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content. NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

This workshop has been approved for 2.0 general hours, with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling. CE Broker Tracking # 20-1338355 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.