Workshop Attendance
Effective April 1, 2024, VTSC (Veterans Training Support Center) has implemented a new No-Show & Attendance Tracking Procedure.
- Cancellation: If you find that you are unable to attend a workshop, please take the following steps:
- Cancel Your Registration: If you know in advance that you won’t be able to attend, kindly cancel your registration.
- Email Notification: Alternatively, you can email us at vtsc@dva.wa.gov at least 48 hours prior to the workshop date to inform us of your inability to attend.
- Late Arrivals: Participants who arrive more than 30 minutes late will not be allowed into the classroom.
- No-Show:
- In the event of a no-show, an email notification will be sent to the address you used to register for the training.
- If a VTSC participant accumulates three NO-SHOW incidents within a calendar year, they will become ineligible to attend any VTSC workshops for the remainder of that year.
- Petition: The participant has a right to petition the VTSC Training Manager.
Upcoming workshops will be advertised on our monthly newsletter. You can sign up HERE to join our email list.
Upcoming or Ongoing Workshops
View workshops on the DVA Calendar
REGISTER HERE
When: Thursday, April 25th | Thursday, May 23rd | Thursday, June 20th | Thursday, August 22nd | Thursday, October 24th
Time: 1 - 2 pm
Where: Virtual/Online
CEs Available: None
Trainers: Various
Workshop Description:
This training program aims to facilitate the connection between healthcare providers in community hospitals to VA Puget Sound Health Care, enabling them to link Veterans with resources. Its primary goal is to enhance clinicians’ comprehension of available Veteran resources, thereby streamlining access to appropriate care for Veterans.
REGISTER HERE
When: Friday, May 24th and Friday, June 21st
Time: 1- 4 pm, PST
Where: Virtual/Online
CEs Available: 0
Description
In a two-part workshop, participants will learn the basic concepts and goals of being effective peer supporters and community builders while also engaging in collaborative dialogue with other participants to identify different perspectives and experiences in working with others. This will foster a deeper understanding of the self, our peers, and our diverse community identities. This will also strengthen our abilities in serving those who serve(d).
Learning Objectives
After taking part in this training, participants will be able to:
- Participants will define their role as peer support or as someone working in the helping professions.
- Participants will discuss best practices for forming meaningful professional relationships based on a person-centered approach built upon a foundation of unconditional positive regard for those we work with and our communities.
- Participants will not only discuss the basic skills of the peer supporter but also put them into practice during breakout sessions, ensuring a hands-on learning experience.
- Participants will engage in focused discussions on topics relevant to the field, such as active listening, working from a trauma-informed perspective, ethics, goal setting, cultural awareness, self-care, and communication.
- Finally, participants will network with others to begin building or strengthening their existing professional networks, where ongoing communication and support can be fostered through collaborative consultation.
REGISTER HERE
When: May 31
Time: 9am-4pm
Where: Virtual/Online
CEs Available: 6
47,000 Americans died by suicide in 2017, and sadly, over 14% of the completed suicides were Veterans. Despite increased funding and awareness, the Veteran suicide rate is still steady. Assessing and Managing Suicide Risk (AMSR) helps give clinicians the skills and confidence to meet suicide care standards and competencies.
This training is designed for outpatient providers to assess and manage suicide risk with the goal of aiding in patient recovery. Clinicians will learn through group discussion, case examples, and videos, and should expect to participate in this class with a collaborative, non-adversarial and nonjudgmental stance. This course meets the Washington State requirements (RCW 43.70.442) for social workers, mental health counselors, marriage and family therapists, and psychologists.
Objectives
1.Identify and apply the following core competencies to suicide prevention: maintaining an effective attitude and approach, collecting accurate
assessment information, formulating risk, developing a treatment and services plan, and managing care.
2.Demonstrate an increased willingness, confidence, and clarity in working with individuals at risk for suicide.
3.Describe specific methods to better care for individuals at risk for suicide.
REGISTER HERE
REGISTER HERE
The United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) S.A.V.E. suicide prevention training program is designed to help recognize the warning signs of suicide and provide support and resources to individuals at risk of suicide. The S.A.V.E. program aims to help V.A. employees and volunteers develop the skills and knowledge necessary to identify and respond to individuals at risk of suicide and to connect them with the resources and support they need to get the help they need. The program is an integral part of the V.A.'s overall efforts to reduce suicide among veterans and to ensure that all veterans have access to the support and resources they need to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.
VA S.A.V.E. Training will help you act with care and compassion if you encounter a veteran in crisis or experiencing suicidal thoughts. The acronym S.A.V.E. helps you remember the important steps involved in suicide prevention:
S - Signs of suicidal thinking should be recognized
A - Ask the most important question of all -- "Are you thinking of killing yourself?"
V - Validate the veteran's experience
E - Encourage treatment and Expedite getting help
REGISTER HERE
REGISTER HERE
When: Friday, June 7th
Time: 9 am - 4 pm, PST
Where: Virtual/Online
CEs Available: 6
Trainer: Dr. Peter Schmidt
Description
Brain injury has always been a part of war, but it wasn’t until the Afghanistan and Iraq wars where it received more attention and understanding. Many service members have left military service undiagnosed with a brain injury for a variety of reasons. Some symptoms of PTSD can overlap with a brain injury, and as a result the latter is never addressed. The purpose of the presentation is to provide an overview of the types of combat-related brain injury, its classifications, symptoms, treatment and resources.
Learning Objectives
After taking part in this training, participants will be able to:
- Highlight theories on the trauma that occurs with the impact from an improvised explosive device and other blunt force.
- Compare and contrast post-traumatic stress disorder and TBI, and other complicating issues.
- Summarize how military training can influence and complicate one’s experience of TBI.
- Identify accommodation strategies and resources.
- Discuss programs and resources offered by the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs, Brain Injury and Recovery Program (HeatherLynn Bahme, Program Manager and Brianna Flott, Program Specialist).
REGISTER HERE
When: Friday, June 7th
Time: 9 am - 4 pm, PST
Where: Virtual/Online
CEs Available: 6
Trainer: Dr. Peter Schmidt
Description
Brain injury has always been a part of war, but it wasn’t until the Afghanistan and Iraq wars where it received more attention and understanding. Many service members have left military service undiagnosed with a brain injury for a variety of reasons. Some symptoms of PTSD can overlap with a brain injury, and as a result the latter is never addressed. The purpose of the presentation is to provide an overview of the types of combat-related brain injury, its classifications, symptoms, treatment and resources.
Learning Objectives
After taking part in this training, participants will be able to:
- Highlight theories on the trauma that occurs with the impact from an improvised explosive device and other blunt force.
- Compare and contrast post-traumatic stress disorder and TBI, and other complicating issues.
- Summarize how military training can influence and complicate one’s experience of TBI.
- Identify accommodation strategies and resources.
- Discuss programs and resources offered by the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs, Brain Injury and Recovery Program (HeatherLynn Bahme, Program Manager and Brianna Flott, Program Specialist).
REGISTER HERE
When: Friday, June 7th
Time: 1 - 4 pm, PST
Where: Virtual/Online
CEs Available: 3
Faculty: JK Costello
Description
Pathways to Recovery; How to Support Individuals by Meeting Them Where They Are
Learning Objectives
After taking part in this training, participants will be able to:
- Discuss how stigma and bias can prevent recovery.
- Identify strength-based approaches that support holistic care.
- Discuss how behavioral health professionals can adopt a recovery system of care approach.
REGISTER HERE
When: Friday, June 14th (9 am - 4 pm) and Friday, June 21st (9 am - 1 pm)
Where: Virtual/Online
CEs Available: 0
Faculty: Donna Brock, Bob Dare
Description
2-part series, Veteran Service Organization leadership development.
Learning Objectives
After taking part in this training, participants will be able to:
- Developing veteran leadership, within veteran services organization and programming.
- Understand tools and process’s to build strong teams in service to Veterans
- Understanding communication, and facilitation skills.
- Building on promising practices around cultural competency, and how to develop leadership among SMVF in Veteran services.
REGISTER HERE
When: Thursday, April 25th | Thursday, May 23rd | Thursday, June 20th | Thursday, August 22nd | Thursday, October 24th
Time: 1 - 2 pm
Where: Virtual/Online
CEs Available: None
Trainers: Various
Workshop Description:
This training program aims to facilitate the connection between healthcare providers in community hospitals to VA Puget Sound Health Care, enabling them to link Veterans with resources. Its primary goal is to enhance clinicians’ comprehension of available Veteran resources, thereby streamlining access to appropriate care for Veterans.
REGISTER HERE
When: Friday, June 14th (9 am - 4 pm) and Friday, June 21st (9 am - 1 pm)
Where: Virtual/Online
CEs Available: 0
Faculty: Donna Brock, Bob Dare
Description
Veteran Service Organization leadership development/ training.
Learning Objectives
After taking part in this training, participants will be able to:
- Developing veteran leadership, within veteran services organization and programming.
- Understand tools and process’s to build strong teams in service to Veterans
- Understanding communication, and facilitation skills.
- Building on promising practices around cultural competency, and how to develop leadership among
REGISTER HERE
When: Friday, May 24th and Friday, June 21st
Time: 1- 4 pm, PST
Where: Virtual/Online
CEs Available: 0
Description
In a two-part workshop, participants will learn the basic concepts and goals of being effective peer supporters and community builders while also engaging in collaborative dialogue with other participants to identify different perspectives and experiences in working with others. This will foster a deeper understanding of the self, our peers, and our diverse community identities. This will also strengthen our abilities in serving those who serve(d).
Learning Objectives
After taking part in this training, participants will be able to:
- Participants will define their role as peer support or as someone working in the helping professions.
- Participants will discuss best practices for forming meaningful professional relationships based on a person-centered approach built upon a foundation of unconditional positive regard for those we work with and our communities.
- Participants will not only discuss the basic skills of the peer supporter but also put them into practice during breakout sessions, ensuring a hands-on learning experience.
- Participants will engage in focused discussions on topics relevant to the field, such as active listening, working from a trauma-informed perspective, ethics, goal setting, cultural awareness, self-care, and communication.
- Finally, participants will network with others to begin building or strengthening their existing professional networks, where ongoing communication and support can be fostered through collaborative consultation.
REGISTER HERE
When: July 12th (9 am - 12 pm, PST)
Where: Virtual/Online
CEs Available: 3
Trainer: Eric Strom, JD, Ph.D, LMHC
Description
While new and emerging technologies can provide clinicians with powerful and effective clinical tools, such technologies also have the potential to create a range of new challenges. In this workshop we will address the specific legal and ethical implications of the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning within the practice of behavioral health. We will identify and discuss the evolving standards found in federal law, state law, and in the professional codes of ethics. Participants will gain the ability to identify and implement a legally and ethically sound approach evaluating and implementing new AI technologies in clinical practice.
Learning Objectives
After taking part in this training, participants will be able to:
- Identify the emerging ethical standards relating to clinical use of AI
- Apply federal HIPAA standards to the use of AI powered clinical tools
- Create strategies to effectively evaluate the clinical applicability of new technologies
- Apply legal and ethical standards regarding the use of AI to clinical practice
REGISTER HERE
REGISTER HERE
The United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) S.A.V.E. suicide prevention training program is designed to help recognize the warning signs of suicide and provide support and resources to individuals at risk of suicide. The S.A.V.E. program aims to help V.A. employees and volunteers develop the skills and knowledge necessary to identify and respond to individuals at risk of suicide and to connect them with the resources and support they need to get the help they need. The program is an integral part of the V.A.'s overall efforts to reduce suicide among veterans and to ensure that all veterans have access to the support and resources they need to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.
VA S.A.V.E. Training will help you act with care and compassion if you encounter a veteran in crisis or experiencing suicidal thoughts. The acronym S.A.V.E. helps you remember the important steps involved in suicide prevention:
S - Signs of suicidal thinking should be recognized
A - Ask the most important question of all -- "Are you thinking of killing yourself?"
V - Validate the veteran's experience
E - Encourage treatment and Expedite getting help
REGISTER HERE
REGISTER HERE
When: Thursday, April 25th | Thursday, May 23rd | Thursday, June 20th | Thursday, August 22nd | Thursday, October 24th
Time: 1 - 2 pm
Where: Virtual/Online
CEs Available: None
Trainers: Various
Workshop Description:
This training program aims to facilitate the connection between healthcare providers in community hospitals to VA Puget Sound Health Care, enabling them to link Veterans with resources. Its primary goal is to enhance clinicians’ comprehension of available Veteran resources, thereby streamlining access to appropriate care for Veterans.
Dedicated to forging stronger bonds and enhancing collaboration among those who serve our nation’s heroes, Washington State’s Serving Those Who Served Conference is a beacon of knowledge and support for veterans and their families. The conference is a proud partnership between the Washington State Department of Veteran’s Affairs, Employment Security Department, and ArtsWA and we stand united in our commitment to ‘Serving Those Who Served’.
This two-day conference is designed to enhance collaboration among professionals who support veterans and their families. It serves as a hub for sharing knowledge and resources, with a focus on practical solutions and impactful discussions.
Conference Highlights:
- Statewide Networking: Connect with peers and experts in veteran services.
- Expert Insights: Gain valuable knowledge on a variety of veteran-related issues.
- Interactive Sessions: Participate in discussions on topics that are focused on veteran benefits, employment best practices, behavioral health, and veterans engaging with art.
The conference is open to all professionals in the field at no cost.
REGISTER HERE
When: October 4th
Time: 9am-4pm
Where: Virtual/Online
CEs Available: 6
47,000 Americans died by suicide in 2017, and sadly, over 14% of the completed suicides were Veterans. Despite increased funding and awareness, the Veteran suicide rate is still steady. Assessing and Managing Suicide Risk (AMSR) helps give clinicians the skills and confidence to meet suicide care standards and competencies.
This training is designed for outpatient providers to assess and manage suicide risk with the goal of aiding in patient recovery. Clinicians will learn through group discussion, case examples, and videos, and should expect to participate in this class with a collaborative, non-adversarial and nonjudgmental stance. This course meets the Washington State requirements (RCW 43.70.442) for social workers, mental health counselors, marriage and family therapists, and psychologists.
Objectives
1.Identify and apply the following core competencies to suicide prevention: maintaining an effective attitude and approach, collecting accurate
assessment information, formulating risk, developing a treatment and services plan, and managing care.
2.Demonstrate an increased willingness, confidence, and clarity in working with individuals at risk for suicide.
3.Describe specific methods to better care for individuals at risk for suicide.
REGISTER HERE
REGISTER HERE
The United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) S.A.V.E. suicide prevention training program is designed to help recognize the warning signs of suicide and provide support and resources to individuals at risk of suicide. The S.A.V.E. program aims to help V.A. employees and volunteers develop the skills and knowledge necessary to identify and respond to individuals at risk of suicide and to connect them with the resources and support they need to get the help they need. The program is an integral part of the V.A.'s overall efforts to reduce suicide among veterans and to ensure that all veterans have access to the support and resources they need to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.
VA S.A.V.E. Training will help you act with care and compassion if you encounter a veteran in crisis or experiencing suicidal thoughts. The acronym S.A.V.E. helps you remember the important steps involved in suicide prevention:
S - Signs of suicidal thinking should be recognized
A - Ask the most important question of all -- "Are you thinking of killing yourself?"
V - Validate the veteran's experience
E - Encourage treatment and Expedite getting help
REGISTER HERE
REGISTER HERE
When: Thursday, April 25th | Thursday, May 23rd | Thursday, June 20th | Thursday, August 22nd | Thursday, October 24th
Time: 1 - 2 pm
Where: Virtual/Online
CEs Available: None
Trainers: Various
Workshop Description:
This training program aims to facilitate the connection between healthcare providers in community hospitals to VA Puget Sound Health Care, enabling them to link Veterans with resources. Its primary goal is to enhance clinicians’ comprehension of available Veteran resources, thereby streamlining access to appropriate care for Veterans.
REGISTER HERE
When: December 6
Time: 9am-4pm
Where: Virtual/Online
CEs Available: 6
47,000 Americans died by suicide in 2017, and sadly, over 14% of the completed suicides were Veterans. Despite increased funding and awareness, the Veteran suicide rate is still steady. Assessing and Managing Suicide Risk (AMSR) helps give clinicians the skills and confidence to meet suicide care standards and competencies.
This training is designed for outpatient providers to assess and manage suicide risk with the goal of aiding in patient recovery. Clinicians will learn through group discussion, case examples, and videos, and should expect to participate in this class with a collaborative, non-adversarial and nonjudgmental stance. This course meets the Washington State requirements (RCW 43.70.442) for social workers, mental health counselors, marriage and family therapists, and psychologists.
Objectives
1.Identify and apply the following core competencies to suicide prevention: maintaining an effective attitude and approach, collecting accurate
assessment information, formulating risk, developing a treatment and services plan, and managing care.
2.Demonstrate an increased willingness, confidence, and clarity in working with individuals at risk for suicide.
3.Describe specific methods to better care for individuals at risk for suicide.
REGISTER HERE
REGISTER HERE
The United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) S.A.V.E. suicide prevention training program is designed to help recognize the warning signs of suicide and provide support and resources to individuals at risk of suicide. The S.A.V.E. program aims to help V.A. employees and volunteers develop the skills and knowledge necessary to identify and respond to individuals at risk of suicide and to connect them with the resources and support they need to get the help they need. The program is an integral part of the V.A.'s overall efforts to reduce suicide among veterans and to ensure that all veterans have access to the support and resources they need to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.
VA S.A.V.E. Training will help you act with care and compassion if you encounter a veteran in crisis or experiencing suicidal thoughts. The acronym S.A.V.E. helps you remember the important steps involved in suicide prevention:
S - Signs of suicidal thinking should be recognized
A - Ask the most important question of all -- "Are you thinking of killing yourself?"
V - Validate the veteran's experience
E - Encourage treatment and Expedite getting help
REGISTER HERE