Current IEI Trainings
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IEI Trainings are designed for mental health, behavioral health, vocational rehabilitation service providers, and mental health consumers. They are offered throughout *southern New Jersey. A wide range of topics from basic skills to advanced practice are available each season and are taught by experienced IEI staff.
*Currently, our trainings are being offered through Zoom and are open to anyone interested.
Our trainings are split into prevocational and career services. These trainings give you the tools to facilitate preparatory activities for use with individuals or in a group setting.
There is no fee required for these trainings, however pre-registration is required. Registered participants will be notified in advance of any changes or cancellations via email or phone.
You can view the training offerings below. Offerings are updated seasonally.
NOTE: If a training has less than 3 attendees present, it will be canceled.
Career Services Trainings:
These interactive trainings are designed for practitioners working in vocational services and other rehabilitation and behavioral health settings to improve career services outcomes. This series also includes trainings that cover topics and resources for employee and student wellness.
Currently these trainings are free to anyone, but in the future, there may be a cost to attend if you are out of the state of New Jersey.
IEI Trainings are designed for mental health, behavioral health, vocational rehabilitation service providers, and mental health consumers. IEI webinars may be eligible for most professional license and certification post approval continuing education credits. Please follow up with your specific license or certification body for additional information. A fee may apply for your specific credential.
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May 1, 2024
10 AM – 11:30 AM EST
Virtual TrainingMany of us at some point in our professional lives decide what type of information and how much to tell others. We may not formally sit down and consider this decision, but we nevertheless weigh the pros and cons of what we would want our colleagues to know about us. Researchers in this area (McGahey et al., 2014) describe this type of disclosure decision making as developing a plan for managing personal information (PMPI). This workshop will provide resources and strategies to assist job seekers in developing a PMPI in employment, including assessing the need for and requesting reasonable accommodations.
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May 15, 2024
10 AM – 11:30 AM EST
Virtual TrainingBurnout is known as a stress-related work hazard, that is characterized by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and diminished personal accomplishment. Burnout has been shown to reduce providers’ sense of job satisfaction and success as well as increase organization turnover. Join us for this 90-minute webinar to support Career Services providers wellness by managing and mitigating burnout. Attendees will explore the profound implications of burnout on their wellness and learn practical strategies to alleviate this source of stress.
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May 16, 2024
10 AM – 11:30 AM EST
Virtual TrainingAs Employment Specialists and Job Developers, we help in the job search as well as support individuals in learning and using key job seeking skills, such as completing applications, resume writing, interviewing, and locating employers. This session will provide resources and strategies to support job seekers’ self-directed job searches. Discussions will clarify the employment’s role in supporting independent job searches as well the tools to promote job seekers’ engagement in the job development process.
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May 22, 2024
10 AM – 11:30 AM EST
Virtual TrainingThis presentation addresses the challenge many job seekers potentially encounter when they haven’t worked for some time or may have left jobs due to less than favorable reasons–gaps in work history. This can make it difficult to develop resumes, complete applications, and feel confident during job interviews. The training will: 1. Describe various responses when addressing work history gaps; 2. Identify strategies and resources to assist job seekers in describing work history gaps; and 3. Review tools to assist job seekers in completing applications and resumes to best explain work history gaps.
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June 5, 2024
10 AM – 11:30 AM EST
Virtual TrainingThe creator of the mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) program, Jon Kabat-Zinn, defines mindfulness as: “awareness that arises through paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment, non-judgmentally”. In this session, we will explore mindfulness as a practice, with a focus on the utilization of mindfulness techniques and strategies in our work to support the vocational goals of individuals living with mental health conditions.
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June 6, 2024
10 AM – 11:30 AM EST
Virtual TrainingIn this webinar, we will offer an introduction to the rapidly growing Career and Technical Education (CTE) industry. Additionally, we will explore how individuals with serious mental health conditions can benefit from CTE education and the opportunities it provides to obtain competitive jobs with living wages. With the focus on skill acquisition and hands-on learning, CTE programs offer a practical approach to career development that can be especially beneficial for individuals who may have faced barriers to traditional academic pathways. We will delve into the specific benefits of CTE education for individuals with serious mental health conditions, and how providers can best support their job seekers and students in accessing these opportunities. Whether you’re new to the field or looking to expand your knowledge, this webinar is a great opportunity to learn about the potential of CTE education in supporting individuals with serious mental health conditions in achieving their career goals.
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June 13, 2024
10 AM – 11:30 AM EST
Virtual TrainingThe use of social media when finding a new job has been increasing over the last several years. Both job seekers and employers have come to rely on various social media for employment acquisition purposes. This training will review the importance of having a social media presence as part of a job search plan. We will also identify tools and resources for using social media effectively as well as discuss some common pitfalls when using social media.
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June 19, 2024
10 AM – 11:30 AM EST
Virtual TrainingWith summer upon us, now is a great time to consider how our programs and practices can support the Transitional Age Youth and Young Adult (TAYYA) population in their shift from secondary school to post-secondary education. In this session, we will review the differences in accessing academic support and accommodations in high school as compared to college and/or post-secondary training. Strategies for supporting skill development for TAY students in self-advocacy and disclosure will be discussed, including an overview of common accommodations for students in post-secondary education. Attendees will build skills and identify resources to promote success for TAY students in their transition to post-secondary opportunities.
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June 20, 2024
10 AM – 11:30 AM EST
Virtual TrainingJob success is often linked to cognitive skills such as concentration, thinking speed, organization, problem-solving, attention, and memory (McGurk & Mueser, 2021). It is crucial for providers to understand how these skills contribute to both short-term and long-term career success. This training will cover the different types of work-related cognitive skills and how to effectively use them in supporting job seekers to achieve their career goals. Additionally, the training will highlight the importance of various cognitive skills and their impact on employment outcomes. In future webinars, each skill will be broken down to help providers support job seekers in learning these critical work-related cognitive skills.
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June 26, 2024
10 AM – 11:30 AM EST
Virtual TrainingAt times, job seekers may be ambivalent about employment. This ambivalence may take on different forms and behaviors, such as individuals’ refusal of all jobs no matter how close the match, leaving or losing jobs continuously, dropping out of services, cancelling, not showing up for scheduled appointments, or changing job goals frequently. Motivational Interviewing (MI) is an evidence-based practice that has been used in a variety of settings, including employment services, to assist individuals in making behavior changes and achieving goals. It focuses on exploring and resolving ambivalence and is geared toward understanding and enhancing internal motivations that facilitate change. This training will introduce skills to strengthen change talk and minimize sustain talk.
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July 10, 2024
10 AM – 11:30 AM EST
Virtual TrainingSupporting job seekers in their job search and in your job development efforts often requires an understanding of the company’s culture. Specifically, having knowledge of the company’s diversity and inclusion practices and policies can help you support job seekers in making good job matches. We’ll discuss some ways to explore diversity and inclusion practices within a potential company.
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July 11, 2024
10 AM – 11:30 AM EST
Virtual Training“If you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.” This quote, often attributed to Albert Einstein, illustrates the importance of working with our inherent skills, interests, and preferences, not against them. The same goes for the Career Services that we provide. In this session, we will explore strategies to utilize strengths-based focus, communication, and skill development to promote successful outcomes in Supported Employment and Supported Education services. Learn to apply appreciative inquiry to your career services provision to promote the development of a career trajectory that is truly in line with individuals’ strengths, skills, and interests.
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July 17, 2024
10 AM – 11:30 AM EST
Virtual TrainingIt’s important for career service providers to support individuals in returning to work or school and understand their cultural perspectives, beliefs, and influences. This understanding helps to build a stronger relationship and better understand the job seeker’s goals, interests, and preferences within the context of their culture. Corey et al. (2018) argues that if counselors and service providers only consider the impact of culture within a specific population, they may miss important elements in understanding and helping service participants. Therefore, being a skilled and culturally competent counselor or service provider allows you to explore the cultural factors in all aspects of an individual’s life to maximize their potential and help them achieve their desired employment goals. This webinar will cover topics such as culture, the difference between cultural competence and humility, and critical cultural competence skills.
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July 18, 2024
10 AM – 11:30 AM EST
Virtual TrainingInternalized stigma, often manifested as negative beliefs and perceptions about oneself due to societal stereotypes, can significantly impact one’s self-esteem, recovery journey, and ability to advocate for wellness needs. This session will provide an overview of evidence-based practices for practitioners to address internalized stigma, and illness identities in people you support. Through interactive discussions and practical exercises, attendees will gain valuable insights and tools to promote resilience, empowerment, and well-being.
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July 24, 2024
10 AM – 11:30 AM EST
Virtual TrainingRecovery-Oriented Cognitive Therapy (CT-R) offers a holistic approach that integrates cognitive behavioral therapy principles with a focus on personal recovery and individual empowerment. In this session, participants will learn how to apply CT-R techniques to help job seekers and postsecondary students overcome barriers, set meaningful career aspirations, and achieve sustainable employment outcomes. Attendees will gain practical interventions to enhance their practice and empower individuals in their journey towards fulfilling careers and meaningful lives.
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July 25, 2024
10 AM – 11:30 AM EST
Virtual TrainingPostsecondary students and job seekers with mental health conditions encounter numerous systemic barriers that hinder their access to employment and educational opportunities. Achieving true inclusion and equity for these individuals requires a multifaceted approach that dismantles these barriers and promotes collective action. Join IEI for this 90-minute synchronous webinar session that explores the intersection of disability rights, social justice, and employment/education equity, with a specific focus on addressing the challenges faced by individuals with mental health conditions. This webinar will provide participants with valuable insights and practical strategies for advancing social justice and disability rights in both the workforce and educational settings, particularly for those affected by mental health conditions.
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July 31, 2024
10 AM – 11:30 AM EST
Virtual TrainingWork works! Research indicates the positive impacts of obtaining and maintaining desired roles such as student and worker for individuals living with mental health conditions. In this session, we will dive into Peggy Swarbrick’s 8-Dimensions of Wellness model, as adopted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), with a focus on how the attainment of vocational goals impact each of the 8 dimensions. Participants will gain foundational knowledge of the holistic 8-Dimensions model and will be provided with resources to support the wellness of job seekers and students.
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August 1, 2024
10 AM – 11:30 AM EST
Virtual TrainingAs practitioners, cultivating an antiracist counseling identity is essential for fostering inclusive and equitable environments. This webinar is designed to equip practitioners with the tools and strategies needed to develop an antiracist counseling identity. Through a focus on broaching skills, cultural responsiveness, and a commitment to decolonized services, participants will gain valuable insights to challenge racism and promote equity in their professional practice.
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Career Services Supervisor Series
This series has been designed to provide targeted training for those in supervisory positions who are supporting Career Services staff in the provision of Supported Employment and Supported Education services. The series will be held via zoom on 6 consecutive Thursday mornings from 10:00-11:30 EST, beginning 4/4/24. Choose to sign up for the entire series, or to select the sessions that best meet your needs!
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May 2, 2024
10 AM – 11:30 AM EST
Virtual TrainingHow do we keep our community-based staff and our teams engaged and connected? In this session, we’ll explore strategies and opportunities to maintain connection and team cohesion. Topics will include ensuring opportunities and team building, utilizing virtual platforms and technology to remain connected, and (of course) utilizing an appreciative lens to continually encourage team cohesion and growth.
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May 9, 2024
10 AM – 11:30 AM EST
Virtual TrainingHow do we ensure that our staff are accurately documenting and capturing all billable services? In this session, we’ll review opportunities to support staff in understanding the scope of billable services, and provide strategies to ensure that all services are captured and documented appropriately.
Prevocational Services Professional Development:
This series is designed for NJ practitioners working in supported employment, supported education, vocational services, partial care/partial hospitalization, and other behavioral health and rehabilitation settings. The focus is on preparatory activities designed for use with individuals or in group settings. The series starts in the Fall and continues through the Spring of each year.
Completion of all modules in the Prevocational Series will result in a Certificate of Completion, which is required for mental health agencies by The Division of Mental Health & Addiction Services (DMHAS) and Medicaid.
NOTE: The Pre-Voc trainings are for New Jersey providers ONLY. Please do not register for these if you are from out of state. If you have questions, email us: iei@shp.rutgers.edu
Registration for the Pre-Voc Series Group is CLOSED.
NOTE: ONLY register for this series if you are a NJ practitioner!
This is a 12 session series from September to April. You will receive a certificate of completion when you complete all 12 sessions. This certificate is required for mental health agencies in NJ to ensure staff competency.
Registration for the next cohort will open up in Fall 2024.
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September 5th, 2023
10 AM – 11 AM EST
Virtual TrainingAttendees will examine the importance of recovery, explore the relationship of work and recovery, and identify empowerment strategies that promote work and careers. Additionally, attendees will learn information to counter common myths about work and mental illness and describe the benefits and barriers of returning to work.
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All sessions from 10 AM – 11 AM EST
Virtual Training
The S1 communication series is inclusive of skills that are essential to know for the remainder of the series; it’s important for attendees not to miss a part.9/12: Part 1 – Relationship Building & Engagement
9/19: Part 2 – Active Listening & Reflecting
9/26: Part 3 – Readiness Development
10/3: Part 4 – Putting it all Together; Skills Application
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October 10th, 2023
10 AM – 11 AM EST
Virtual TrainingThis session focuses on assisting job seekers with developing career goals and objectives. We’ll review the importance of developing goals that are consistent with job seekers’ interests, preferences, and career-related values as well as identifying the elements of SMART goals. Additionally, we’ll practice developing SMART goals. Please come prepared with a goal in mind, either your own or a job seeker’s, so that we can apply SMART goal planning during the call. We will also review strategies to include consumers as an integral part of identifying the information that should be included in the overall recovery and career goal planning.
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All sessions from 10 AM – 11 AM EST
Virtual Training10/17: Part 1
10/24: Part 2This two-part session will explore employment development from a career-oriented perspective in order to assist people in achieving productive job matches. It will include approaches to facilitate the process for people who are determining their values, interests, preferences, and in increasing their knowledge of the work world.
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All sessions from 10 AM – 11 AM EST
Virtual Training10/31: Part 1
11/7: Part 2These workshops will look at supports from two perspectives. First, participants will learn why family members are invaluable resources and how they can engage family members through the vocational process. Second, you will learn about community resources that are available to assist people with mental illness overcome barriers to work.
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All sessions from 10 AM – 11 AM EST
Virtual Training11/14: Part 1
11/21: Part 2Explore employment for persons who experience both a mental illness and substance use disorders. These sessions will review the impact of alcohol and drugs on psychosocial functioning. Strategies for working with individuals with co-occurring disorders who are seeking employment will be reviewed.
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January 9th, 2024
10 AM – 11 AM EST
Virtual TrainingAs employment specialists and job developers, we provide assistance in the job search while also supporting individuals in learning and using key job seeking skills, such as completing applications, resume writing, interviewing and locating employers. This session will provide resources and strategies to support job seekers’ self-directed job searches. Discussions will clarify the employment specialist’s role in supporting independent job searches as well the tools to promote job seekers’ engagement in the job development process.
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All sessions from 10 AM – 11 AM EST
Virtual Training1/16: Part 1
1/23: Part 2Oftentimes, consumers are unsure about returning to work because of concerns regarding the impact of work on Social Security and other entitlements. This training provides an overview of the definition of disability according to SSA guidelines and distinguishes between Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). In addition, trainees will examine how work may impact SSDI and SSI recipients’ benefits and the resources available to support job seekers in understanding work incentives and Social Security planning.
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All sessions from 10 AM – 11 AM EST
Virtual Training1/30: Part 1
2/06: Part 2
2/13: Part 3These trainings provide an overview of the six dimensions of wellness and discusses strategies to maintain health in each dimension. We will introduce the Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) as a self-directed recovery tool that is created by an individual to pursue their path to recovery as well as discuss other relapse prevention strategies that can be utilized to increase employment success.
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February 20th, 2024
10 AM – 11 AM EST
Virtual TrainingThis session will explore the common goals that clinical and vocational providers share, review the role of clinical staff in the return-to-work process, and discuss approaches to increase collaboration between employment programs and clinical staff.
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All sessions from 10 AM – 11 AM EST
Virtual Training2/27: Part 1
3/05: Part 2
This training will examine the benefits and challenges of offering employment support groups, provide information on how to start a group, and offer tips on making the groups effective and interesting for participants.
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All sessions from 10 AM – 11 AM EST
Virtual Training3/12: Part 1
3/19: Part 2
3/26: Part 3This training will examine how skills groups differ from support and other types of groups (e.g., psycho-education, mutual self-help). Learn group leadership skills for successful employment skills groups as well as the steps for teaching skills in effective and interesting groups.
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If you are unable to attend our regular training series due to work conflicts, we offer the following options:
- Joining Your Team Meetings: Our trainers can join team meetings at your organization and present on a scheduled topic.
- Monthly Professional Development Seminar: These can be scheduled monthly or as-needed. You have the option to choose one of our offered topics or work with IEI to create something custom for your organization.
- Lunch & Learn: Get some skill and professional development in during your lunch hour. For more information on any of these options, email us at iei@shp.rutgers.edu