Not all Beneficiary Sessions are Created Equal
This presentation is designed for all staff providing direct assistance to beneficiaries and caregivers. In our work with the public, beneficiaries or caregivers may come to us for assistance in an emotional or behavioral state, which can create hurdles that must be addressed either upfront or throughout the session. This may especially be true when helping others amidst emotionally charged topics and climates like COVID-19 and the pandemic. If these hurdles are not overcome quickly, sessions can get sidetracked, making it difficult for staff to be effective and for clients to get their needs met. This presentation will provide a framework and strategies for assisting staff in safely and effectively addressing and overcoming these barriers. These strategies will help clear a path for better outcomes for the individuals served. |
Dennis Smithe MA
Client Services Manager
SHIP TA Center (NEI3A)
Dennis Smithe joined NEI3A and the SHIP TA Center team February 7, 2017. He is the Client Service Manager and is responsible for ensuring a our communications with the public and others is professional. Dennis has a MA in Mental Health Counseling and over 30 year of experience most of which has been in Child Welfare. Dennis has a broad range of experiences ranging from direct client services to being a Director of Residential Services.
Dennis’ areas of specialty include Trauma Informed Care as well as using those concepts for developing effective supervisory relationships to reduce staff turnover. Dennis has been recognized as expert in behavior management techniques including physical interventions. Dennis is a certified Level 1 and Level 2 trauma trainer and has been a certified Mandt Trainer for close to 20 years.
Donya Currie (Moderator)
Senior Editor, NCOA
National Council on Aging
Donya Currie is a journalist, writer, editor, and content strategist who brings a passion for social justice and equity to her work at NCOA. She has decades of experience covering health and public health as well as expertise in helping other tell their powerful personal stories. She is a National Center to Reframe Aging facilitator and would love to talk to you about changing the way we think about aging.