Overview: Effective communication transcends the mere exchange of words. Knowing

effective communication skills is not only vital in the mental health sector but

also in your professional relationships. 

Effective communication facilitates

understanding, empathy, and trust, foundational to the therapeutic relationship,

effective treatment, and relationships with peers. Knowing how to listen can be

just as important as the words used in conversations along with understanding

non-verbal body language. This presentation will cover the different elements of

effective therapeutic communication. 

Will address the skills required for

effective communication. Also, will also talk about how to identify and actively

address the communication barriers that can hinder therapeutic and professional

relationships.

Who Should Attend?

Criminal Justice Professionals

Social Workers

Counselors

Therapists

LGBTQ+ Advocates

Researchers

About the speaker:

Pam Akins, LMFT & LPCC, is a Clinical Supervisor who has over 20 years’

experience working in mental health and social services in foster care,

residential treatment with adolescents with sexual behavior problems, and with

parolees presenting with sexual behavior issues. 

She has worked at HOPE Program for 8 years where she works with adult parolees with sexual offense issues,

substance abuse, and mental health issues. Being a woman of African-American and

Native American decent, differently abled, and lesbian, she shares many

perspectives in treating clients as a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. When not at work, Pam can be found

writing fiction and playing many of her handmade drums and flutes.