WC25 Program_LR 8

TRACK WORKSHOPS

Sheri Denham Keffer, Ph.D., CSAT BraveOne.com

fects on self-esteem, anxiety, relational dynamics, and long term mental health. A clinical lens is applied to analyze the psychological and emotional processes by which shame emerges and perpetuates during adolescence. The presenta tion integrates a faith-based psychology perspective, empha sizing the transformative role of grace, forgiveness, presence, and identity in Christ as therapeutic tools for mitigating the effects of shame for willing Christian clients. Designed for psychologists, licensed mental health professionals, and min istry leaders, this workshop highlights the importance of pro moting open communication and fostering a faith-centered framework for self-worth. By equipping clinicians with strate gies to support families and communities, adolescent clients can build resilience, embrace their inherent value, and navi gate the challenges of shame with hope and purpose. Learning Objectives 1. Analyze the psychological and emotional mechanisms through which shame impacts adolescent development, particularly regarding self-esteem, relationships, and mental health. 2. Evaluate the role of faith in healing shame, focusing on how grace, forgiveness, and presence can foster resilience and a positive self-identity in adolescents. 3. Develop practical strategies to create emotionally safe en vironments for adolescents, integrating open dialogue and spiritual support to effectively address and mitigate shame. 311. Rebounding in Ministry: Helping Clergy Find Resilience After Forced Termination 1.25 credit hours Continuing Education Accreditations applicable to this workshop: IBCC, ASWB, NBCC, Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Mental Health Counseling Level: Intermediate Dallas Speight, Ed.D., D.Min Clinical Pastoral Education International

Summary One of the most challenging aspects of counseling couples dealing with sexual betrayal is how to effectively navigate the pain caused by pornography and sexual addiction, or what the World Health Organization calls Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder. Individuals struggling with these issues often lack empathy due to repeated deception and an un derlying loss of integrity, resulting in extreme self-interest and a lack of consideration for the impact on the partner’s emotional well-being. Without a clear plan, couples may split, stay angry, become stuck, or settle into disconnected cohabitation in an attempt to keep the family intact. In this workshop, psychologists, licensed mental health profession als, and ministry leaders will identify how three key compo nents- empathy, ownership, and truth-telling- are essential for healing. Participants will assess the Early Recovery Cou ples Empathy Model (ERCEM), a straightforward approach that guides couples through the stages of safety, grief, and growth. Participants will analyze the eight steps of the Empa thy Cycle, including listening, validation, containment, and safety, which foster co-occurring change and rebuild a posi tive self-image for both partners. Learning Objectives 1. Identify the three essential components—empathy, own ership, and truth-telling—necessary for effective healing in couples dealing with sexual betrayal and addiction and how these elements foster relational repair. 2. Assess the Early Recovery Couples Empathy Model (ERCEM) and its role in guiding couples through critical stages of safety, grief, and growth, providing a clear framework for recovery. 3. Analyze the eight steps of the Empathy Cycle, including listening, validation, containment, and safety, and learn how these steps can foster emotional healing, facilitate change, and rebuild a positive self-image for both partners. 310. Beyond Shame: Nurturing Resilience in Adolescent Development 1.25 credit hours Continuing Education Accreditations applicable to this workshop: ASWB, NBCC, IBCC, Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage

Sheila W. Speight, Ph.D. Liberty University

Summary The impact of forced termination among clergy is an area with limited research. However, existing studies point to its pro found effects on the minister, their family, the congregation, and the community. This workshop is designed for coaches, pastors, pastoral counselors, and lay counselors to explore the spiritual and emotional reactions to forced termination. Par ticipants will analyze these reactions, identify factors that may contribute to involuntary termination, and articulate positive resources and strategies for those affected. Additionally, par ticipants will discuss a process for rebounding and reinvent ing life after forced termination, offering particular guidance

and Family Therapy, and Mental Health Counseling Education CEUs applicable to this workshop: ACSI Level: Intermediate

Megan Clunan, Ph.D. Moody Bible Institute

Summary This presentation examines the profound impact of shame on adolescent development, focusing on its detrimental ef

2025 AACC UNITED WORLD CONFERENCE

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