Important Information Before You Register:
- This is a hybrid program: Online via Zoom and in-person at the University at Albany, School of Social Welfare. Location: 135 Western Ave, Albany, NY. Registration is required for both in-person and online attendance.
- This session is limited to 20 participants.
- All attendees must register—whether joining in person or online—and whether seeking CE credit or not.
- This is a highly interactive group discussion, not a lecture or formal presentation. Active participation is required to receive a CE certificate. Please ensure your microphone and camera are working.
Workshop Description
When a client says, “I’m depressed most of the time,” the next ten seconds can shape the entire clinical session. How do you decide what to say next?
Join us for an engaging discussion focused on identifying clinical opportunities within everyday client language. This interactive workshop explores practical applications of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) and invites participants to reflect, experiment with language, and strengthen their clinical responses in real time.
Since 2010, the Hudson Valley Solution Focused Network (HVSFN) has facilitated Solution-Focused Brief Therapy discussions grounded in evidence-based practice. While this meeting is designed for professionals who are familiar with SFBT and currently using the model in their clinical work, all are welcome to participate and explore the approach.
To learn more about HVSFN, watch this podcast: Hudson Valley Solution Focused Network Podcast .
For additional background on Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), visit: Solution-Focused Brief Therapy Overview .
Learning Objectives
After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
- Co-construct a conversation with clients about a better life.
- Discuss the application of solution-focused therapy.
- Use practice examples to demonstrate how solution focus can be applied.
- Navigate problem-saturated systems.
Continuing Education Credits: 3.0
This workshop is approved for licensed social workers, licensed mental health counselors, licensed marriage and family therapists, and licensed psychologists.
Fees
- NASW-NY Member - $45.00
- Other Chapter Members (e.g., NASW-NJ, etc.) - $75.00
- Non-Member - $90.00
- NASW-NY Student and Transitional Member (Non-CE Eligible) - $0.00
Presenter:
Mark E. Lane Credential, LCSW-R is an experienced solution focused therapist with over 30 years of experience using and teaching solution focused therapy. He facilitates Hudson Valley Solution Focused quarterly meetings and has taught solution focused therapy at the Graduate School of Social Welfare at the State University of NY at Albany since 1996. He currently works in private practice specializing in group therapy and as a school social worker with Guilderland Schools where he leans heavily on solution focused principles.
Joel Simon, LCSW, ACSW, BCD has been in clinical social work practice for over 40 years in a variety of both inpatient and outpatient settings. He has been a solution-focused practitioner, trainer, presenter, and consultant since 1992. Joel attended 3 advanced solution-focused trainings at the Brief Family Therapy Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the home of solution-focused brief therapy. He is a founding member of the Solution Focused Brief Therapy Association and the recipient of the Steve de Shazer Memorial Award for “significant contributions to the field of solution-focused brief therapy over many years.” Currently, Joel is in private practice, provides solution-focused training, supervision, and consultation. Joel co-authored several articles on solution focus including two with Insoo Kim Berg, a co-developer of the model. Joel has authored and co-authored 4 books on solution-focused topics. Please visit www.0to10.net for further information.
John W. O’Grady, LCSW, has been a therapist for 40 years. He practiced in a family counseling clinic for 18 years, gradually introducing Solution-Focused Therapy into his work with parents, youth, and families. In 2011 he opened a private practice in Albany, where he uses SF therapy to serve a wide range of clients.
Janelle joins the HVSFN team helping out with tech and learning and practicing ways to integrate solution focused throughout her life and work. Janelle currently works for mobile crisis for the capital region, as well as the Employee Assistance Program for NYS. Before this, Janelle worked at the National Association of Social Workers-NYS chapter, coordinating trainings for social workers throughout the state. She also previously worked with the state at the SUNY Albany School of Social Welfare supporting their admissions and student services office. In her free time, Janelle enjoys dancing, music, playing frisbee, and spending time with friends and chosen family.
Sydney earned her MSW from University at Albany in 1995, with post-masters training in attachment issues, trauma treatment, and solution-focused therapy. Sydney has worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families for over 30 years, in community-based programs, home-based programs, health care, and private practice.