Continuing education is important and the company that I work for Truman Medical Center, provides staff with many opportunities for continuing their education. Over the years I have appreciated the opportunity to attend the American Counseling Association’s annual conference where excellent educational opportunities exist. In my specialized area of work, the National Commission on Correctional Health Care has afforded me the opportunity to upgrade my knowledge in mental health and health care in corrections. I think that you will agree that this is quite a specialized area of interest.
The National Commission on Correctional Health Care (NCCHC) has several educational opportunities annually. In the fall NCCHC offers the National Conference on Correctional Health Care. Since its inception in 1977, this conference has been the must-attend event of the year. With its exceptional lineup of educational sessions, abundant networking opportunities and the best commercial exhibition in this field, this fall conference attracts dedicated professionals. The spring conference, Updates in Correctional Health Care, is for professionals and presents cutting edge clinical, research, and administrative educational topics. The Correctional Mental Health conference is held each summer. NCCHC and an impressive roster of partners, host this intensive two day educational meeting to help correctional health professionals and administrators address the challenges of providing adequate care to the growing population of inmates with mental illness and substance abuse problems.
As professionals it is up to us to keep current in our field. Becoming familiar with and using Evidenced Based Practice (EBP) is the standard expected in the field of mental health treatment. Whether you are using Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or another EBP, your clients deserve the very best you have to offer. It is your responsibility to learn and impart your knowledge and use the tools and techniques of your trade.
Nancy White is a counselor who has spent much of her professional life working in corrections.