Minnesota Association for Marriage and Family Therapy upcoming events

Conference Committee Meeting (April 17, 2026)

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 14:00:00 GMT

MAMFT monthly Conference Committee Meetings are open to MAMFT members; they are encouraged to attend. Join us to learn more about the committee's efforts and current projects.

Meetings are held at 9 AM on the third Friday of the month.

Conference Committee

Google Meet joining info

Video call link: https://meet.google.com/nvi-giyc-vxx

Or dial: ‪(US) +1 224-650-8394‬ PIN: ‪458 599 924‬#

More phone numbers: https://tel.meet/nvi-giyc-vxx?pin=1187684657982

Questions about attending a meeting? Contact MAMFT's Training Director at devin@mamft.net

Helping Clients in Crisis: Risk Assessment and Protective Factors (April 22, 2026)

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Earn 1.5 CEUS!*

Lyndsie Standerwick, LMFT, RPT (She/Her)

Lyndsie is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Registered Play Therapist. She has worked in crisis mental health for the last three and a half years. During the early parts of her career Lyndsie worked with people experiencing domestic and sexual violence. Lyndsie then moved on to inpatient mental health work, and then day treatment with children and adolescents. Throughout her career thus far, she has also provided individual and family therapy in an outpatient setting.

Mark Wilde, (He/Him) LMFT

Mark is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. He is a board approved supervisor and also an AAMFt approved supervisor. He has worked in crisis mental health for the last two years. In addition to years of outpatient therapy, Mark has worked in ARHMS and CTSS programs and children’s day treatment.

Description

This presentation is designed to familiarize clinicians with the contemporary mental health crisis landscape and strengthen their confidence in responding effectively when clients present with acute distress. As the demand for crisis services continues to rise, clinicians across all settings—outpatient, community-based, medical, and educational—are increasingly called upon to make rapid, well‑informed decisions that balance client safety, autonomy, and therapeutic rapport. This training will explore core components of crisis assessment, risk stratification, protective factors, safety planning, and determining the most appropriate next steps in care.

A central focus of the presentation is the mental health safety assessment, a structured yet flexible process used to evaluate the immediacy and severity of risk. A safety assessment typically includes exploring suicidal ideation, intent, plan, means, past attempts, self‑harm behaviors, and other indicators of danger to self or others. It also involves assessing the client’s current mental status, substance use, trauma history, and environmental stressors. Effective safety assessments are not simply checklists; they require attunement, curiosity, and the ability to hold space for intense emotion while gathering essential information. Clinicians will learn how to differentiate between passive thoughts, active intent, and imminent risk, as well as how to document findings clearly and ethically.

In addition to evaluating risk, clinicians must also identify protective factors—conditions, strengths, and supports that reduce the likelihood of harm and promote resilience. Protective factors may include strong social connections, cultural or spiritual beliefs, a sense of responsibility to loved ones, engagement in treatment, problem‑solving skills, stable housing, or access to supportive community resources. Understanding protective factors helps clinicians contextualize risk and avoid overly restrictive interventions when a client’s strengths can be mobilized to support safety.

The presentation will also cover safety planning, an evidence‑based, collaborative intervention that empowers clients to recognize warning signs, use coping strategies, reach out to supportive individuals, and access crisis resources when needed. Unlike “no‑harm contracts,” safety plans are practical, personalized, and actionable. Clinicians will learn how to co‑create plans that are realistic, culturally responsive, and aligned with the client’s values.

Finally, the training will guide clinicians in determining next steps—whether that involves continued outpatient care, increased support, crisis stabilization, or emergency intervention. The goal is to equip clinicians with the knowledge and confidence to make thoughtful, ethically grounded decisions that prioritize both safety and dignity.

Objectives

1. Identify when clients are in crisis and learn assessment skills to determine risk level.

2. Identify protective factors and understand what services and supports exist for clients.

3. Identify the difference between crisis and emergency. Learn about safety planning and increasing protective factors.

* This CE activity offered by Minnesota Association of Marriage and Family is approved by the Minnesota Board of Social Work as an approved CE Provider (approval valid through July 25, 2026).

This CE activity is pending CE approval with Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Board of Marriage and Family Therapy.

MAMFT April Board Meeting (April 24, 2026)

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 14:00:00 GMT

MAMFT Monthly Board Meetings are open to the public and MAMFT members are encouraged to attend. Join us to learn more about the board's efforts and current projects

Friday Apr 24, 2026 ⋅ 9am – 12pm (Central Time - Chicago)

Google Meet joining info

Video call link: https://meet.google.com/xok-nphb-qbz?hs=224

Questions about attending a board meeting? Contact MAMFT's Secretary Jenn Geryol at Secretary@MAMFT.net

The Healing Power of Two Stories (April 24, 2026)

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Earn 2 CEUS!*

Mark E Anderson, MA, LP, LMFT has been a family therapist in private practice for 30+years. 30 years as a trainer for Family Therapy Specialists, 20+ years teaching Family Systems at Bethel University and 20+ years teaching Bridge Builders MFT exam prep classes. Approved MN and AAMFT supervisor. Currently working out of Arden Woods Psychological Services in New Brighton, MN. He does not live in California and has no dogs at this time.

Description

A 2020 national survey of adult Americans found that 27% reported being currently estranged from a relative, with 10% reporting an active estrangement from either a parent or an adult child. For many of these families one side of the cutoff is coming to therapy to reconcile, heal or confront this rift. These estrangements are often fueled by deeply held convictions and values and therefore not easily resolved. However, the core of these divisions is often due the family's inability to hold two very different stories about their family identity at the same time. This workshop will be presenting some critical factors that may explain this phenonmenon. In particular, why familial cutoff has become such a common "solution" of choice to family relational problems and why so many ousted family members are mystified why the rift even occurred. This workshop will offer serveral pragmatic insights and tools for reframing the family narrative and teaching families how to maintain relationships while also holding two conflicted stories about who we are at the same time. Finally, the workshop will provide suggestions on how to remove common blocks to healing, restoring trust, accountability and reconciliation that may be helpful to therapists thrust into the middle of this family crisis.

Objectives:

1. Understanding the powerful values that create and maintain family estrangement.

2. Recognize the role and responsibility of psychoeducation in family estrangement and family repair, recognizing strengths and deficiencies in our obligation to families.

3. Offer a pragmatic path forward for restoration and reconciliation in estranged families that clients can understand and apply.

4. Suggest various ways the paths of healing and restoration of family connection can be blocked and how to resolve those blocks in therapy.

* This CE activity offered by Minnesota Association of Marriage and Family is approved by the Minnesota Board of Social Work as an approved CE Provider (approval valid through July 25, 2026).

This CE activity is pending CE approval with Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Board of Marriage and Family Therapy.

Navigating Existential Issues in Psychotherapy: Top Ethical Challenges (April 27, 2026)

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Earn 3 CEUs!*

Kirsten Lind Seal, PhD, LMFT [MA in Counseling Psychology and a PhD in Couple and Family Therapy] teaches Ethics at two universities and conducts trainings on Ethics and Cross-Cultural issues nationally and internationally. Her research has been published in Psychology Today, Journal of Marital and Family Therapy and Family Process. She has a completely virtual private practice where she works with individuals, couples and family, and offers ethics consultations to colleagues. She has for the last 10 years has been a regular on-air contributor on Relationship Reboot, a weekly segment on relationships on WCCO TV’s Channel 4 (CBS Twin Cities).

Description

Have you ever wondered how to manage your countertransference when working with clients on deep existential issues? Does your own fear of dying or getting very ill influence how you show up for them? Do you ask yourself how you can help people find meaning when you often struggle with finding meaning yourself? Or maybe you work regularly with people who are ill, or in an existential crisis around end-of-life issues, and at times you find it hard to stay grounded yourself. This workshop will help you navigate this uncertain and yet wildly human terrain with more equanimity and grace. You will learn how to more calmly and surely walk alongside your clients as they grapple with the larger questions that we all face, while adhering to relevant ethical standards regarding self-disclosure, for example. Managing countertransference, applying of ethical principles and professional codes and clear clinical recommendations will be included.

Objectives:

1. List 3 ways to manage existential countertransference with clients who are dealing with end-of-life issues

2. Examine their own beliefs relevant to working with existential issues in psychotherapy

3. Develop greater self-awareness around reasons to consider therapist self-disclosure regarding existential issues with clients

4. More deeply understand the ethical principles most relevant to working with existential issues in psychotherapy

* This CE activity offered by Minnesota Association of Marriage and Family is approved by the Minnesota Board of Social Work as an approved CE Provider (approval valid through July 25, 2026).

This CE activity is pending CE approval with Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Board of Marriage and Family Therapy.

The Body Tells a Story (May 08, 2026)

Fri, 08 May 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Earn 1 CEU!*

Erin Durkee, MA, LMFT is a clinician in Duluth, MN. They received their MA from the California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS) in San Francisco, CA and have a level 1 certification in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy. Erin works with people experiencing anxiety, depression, chronic pain, recovery from abuse, developmental and acute trauma as well as LGBTIA+ and rural folks.

Description

The body holds memories and developmental patterns of response that form conscious and unconscious stories of how to be in the world. Explore in an experiential format, how our embodied responses are shaped by experience and how stories can be transformed in the therapeutic relationship, processing patterns and development of adaptive responses to life's challenges. Using the foundations of Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and presenting on the work of FTW (femme, trans, women) clinical theories, this workshop proposes that we are 'more than a score' and that our stories and our client's stories are central to how understand ourselves.

Objectives:

1. Understand the foundations of Sensorimotor Psychotherapy in clinical practice

2. Understand the contributions of FTW theorists to trauma therapy and clinical practice

3. Support using self-of-the-therapist in clinical practice through experiential learning

* This CE activity offered by Minnesota Association of Marriage and Family is approved by the Minnesota Board of Social Work as an approved CE Provider (approval valid through July 25, 2026).

This CE activity is pending CE approval with Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Board of Marriage and Family Therapy.

Conference Committee Meeting (May 15, 2026)

Fri, 15 May 2026 14:00:00 GMT

MAMFT monthly Conference Committee Meetings are open to MAMFT members; they are encouraged to attend. Join us to learn more about the committee's efforts and current projects.

Meetings are held at 9 AM on the third Friday of the month.

Conference Committee

Google Meet joining info

Video call link: https://meet.google.com/nvi-giyc-vxx

Or dial: ‪(US) +1 224-650-8394‬ PIN: ‪458 599 924‬#

More phone numbers: https://tel.meet/nvi-giyc-vxx?pin=1187684657982

Questions about attending a meeting? Contact MAMFT's Training Director at devin@mamft.net

Family Therapy for Caregivers of Older Adults (May 19, 2026)

Tue, 19 May 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Earn 3 CEUs!*

Liam O’Sullivan is a psychotherapy student at Saint Mary’s working towards LPCC pre-licensure, with a focus on existential-humanistic counseling for people experiencing loss. He recently emigrated from the UK, where he worked as a mental health and palliative care nurse in settings including community HIV services and hospice care, as well as co-authoring qualitative healthcare research. He has served diverse groups since 2006 including majority Bangladeshi and Black British inner-city hospital populations, immigrants to the Twin Cities, and the LGBT+ community. Outside of his studies, he enjoys the Minnesota Orchestra, national parks, and pulpy werewolf novels.

Tamara is a passionate advocate for older adults and their families. In her private practice she sees adult individuals, couples, families, and groups. Her work focuses on maintaining quality of life in the face of health challenges, wellbeing while caregiving, and support throughout grief and loss. Tamara is an adjunct professor at Saint Mary's, a board-approved clinical supervisor in MN and WI, and she engages in collaborative research on topics related to aging, grief, illness, caregiving, and dementia with researchers around the U.S. She enjoys working on her 100 year old house, snuggling her wienerdog, and camping in her teardrop camper.

Description

Chronic illness is almost universal in older adults, with over 80% of people over 65 in the US affected by one condition, and over 60% by multiple. In an aging worldwide population with increasing incidence of chronic difficulties, caregiving is becoming more complex, and increasingly an occupation of individuals and families. Chronic illness itself has both evident and unseen impacts on wellbeing: both for the person who experiences it, and their families, who in turn must decide how to respond to these life transitions, care burdens, and their own reactions. Family therapists are therefore well placed to support caregivers and help alleviate these broad impacts, using theoretical models that recognize the psychosocial dynamics of caregiving beyond the biomedical impact on the individual experiencing illness.

This webinar is led by a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in the care of older adults and their loved ones experiencing chronic and terminal illness, and a former mental health and palliative care nurse turned student psychotherapist, bringing decades of clinical experience across two continents to bear on this topic.

Attendees will be informed on the climate of chronic illness care, the nature of common and serious long-term conditions, and their various physical, social, psychological and spiritual impacts on the individual. Myths, preconceptions, and unseen difficulties of caregivers will be highlighted, delving into caregiver stressors and consequences.

The evidence base and literature regarding chronic illness caregiving in a multicultural context will be examined, to inform the use of therapeutic models of family and couples therapy with caregivers. The role of the family therapist will be addressed, including common therapeutic themes, scope of practice, and practical issues.

Complex ethical and therapeutic scenarios based on the trainers’ clinical experiences will be explored along with trainees, assisting in grounding effective pluralistic approaches and interventions. Finally, attendees will have the chance to ask their own burning questions and receive pointers for further learning.

Objectives:

1. Understand the implications of the increasing prevalence of chronic illness for therapists

2. Explore typical difficulties faced by people with chronic illness and its various impacts on families and caregivers

3. Become aware of the evidence base and models of family therapy related to chronic illness and caregiver stress

4. Describe practical applications of family therapy for clinical work with caregivers

5. Address ethical issues, multicultural needs, and interpersonal elements in working with clients impacted by chronic illness

* This CE activity offered by Minnesota Association of Marriage and Family is approved by the Minnesota Board of Social Work as an approved CE Provider (approval valid through July 25, 2026).

This CE activity is pending CE approval with Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Board of Marriage and Family Therapy.

MAMFT May Board Meeting (May 29, 2026)

Fri, 29 May 2026 14:00:00 GMT

MAMFT Monthly Board Meetings are open to the public and MAMFT members are encouraged to attend. Join us to learn more about the board's efforts and current projects

Friday May 29, 2026 ⋅ 9am – 12pm (Central Time - Chicago)

Google Meet joining info

Video call link: https://meet.google.com/zyu-rhgy-eip?hs=224

Questions about attending a board meeting? Contact MAMFT's Secretary Jenn Geryol at Secretary@MAMFT.net

Compassion Fatigue & Vicarious Trauma (May 29, 2026)

Fri, 29 May 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Earn 3 CEUs!*

Dr. Sunitha Chandy, Psy.D., a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Founder of Artesian Collaborative, has worked with diverse individuals and communities for over 20 years. She aims to equip people with skills to tap into their resources during painful and tense situations. Her commitment to community-based and systemic thinking has led her to bring skills beyond the therapy room into diverse environments, including Fortune 100 companies, Small Businesses, NGOs, Nonprofits, community organizations, hospital systems, and private practice. Her expertise in developmental psychology, trauma-informed care, cross-cultural engagement, and working with high-risk populations in her clinical work has equipped her to aid teams, even those with intense conflict, in reaching a place of shared understanding and engagement.

Sithara Stohr is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and licensed yoga and meditation instructor. They have experience in organizing and supporting restorative justice and social justice initiatives with a passion for bridging gaps in communication within communities in need of support. Throughout their career, they have had the opportunity to provide mental health services directly to a wide variety of communities. Their experiences have provided them with the needed facilitation skills to lead large group training events, small groups, and community-based interventions. Sithara utilizes a somatic-focused, strengths-based, and person-centered approach within all facets of their work. In a training or community setting, they excel at fostering safe spaces for teams to work through tension together. Their work focuses on creating connection and providing sustainable skills to maintain the work outside of sessions. They value community and believe that healing and growth often happen in these supported group spaces.

Mel Burbules, M.Ed, individual, couple and family therapist with Artesian Collaborative, believes in the power of authentic, collaborative relationships to foster personal growth. Drawing on her background as a professional opera singer, she helps clients connect with their true “voice.” Her work is grounded in Person-Centered Therapy, feminist theory, and advocacy, with a focus on anxiety, identity, trauma, and the impact of systemic injustice—especially for women of color and LGBTQIA+ clients. Melanie’s compassionate, curiosity-driven approach supports clients in aligning with their most authentic selves.

Description

Core Concepts

What is Compassion Fatigue

The concept of compassion fatigue and related terms such as chronic stress and vicarious trauma will be explored. Participants will complete a questionnaire to gauge their risk of compassion fatigue and burnout to help conceptualize the ways these issues arise for themselves and their teams.

The Impact of Trauma

Whether you experience trauma firsthand, witness it, or work with those affected, trauma disrupts lives and communities. We will explore how trauma disrupts people's lives from a physical, emotional, cognitive, behavioral, relational, and systems perspective to reduce judgment and stigma around the costs of caring. We’ll explore how working with those who have experienced trauma can lead to the vicarious experience of trauma.

Healing Power of Vulnerability

To heal our experiences, we need to allow ourselves to be vulnerable internally and with our communities. We will explore the forms of vulnerability that lead to burnout and the ways to build self and community care to utilize vulnerability as a strength to support individual and team health.

Skills to Engage

Mindful Stewardship

Sometimes we actively disengage from painful things as a form of self-protection. Building awareness of the impact of trauma is part of your stewardship as well as maintaining a connection to hope and joy. Finding the balance between responding to pain and seeking joy is a core component of trauma stewardship and a mandatory aspect of sustainable trauma care work.

Community Care Skills

Our session closes with continued discussion on skills that address keeping these topics in our awareness and building a regular system to address their impact. We will share skills to lower distress and manage burnout for ourselves as well as how to continue to support others.

Key Takeaways

This training will give you an overview of the concepts of compassion fatigue, vicarious trauma, and burnout. The main takeaway will be how best to care for yourself while continuing to care for others.

Objectives:

1. Explore compassion fatigue, burnout, and vicarious trauma, and how they manifest.

2. Recognize and assess the multidimensional impacts of trauma on individuals and those caring for them

3. Score your risk of compassion fatigue, vicarious trauma, and burnout.

4. Evaluate how the dimensions of your identity impact your experience of vicarious trauma

5. Articulate how varying identity factors shape how we navigate and cope with the impact of trauma.

* This CE activity offered by Minnesota Association of Marriage and Family is approved by the Minnesota Board of Social Work as an approved CE Provider (approval valid through July 25, 2026).

This CE activity is pending CE approval with Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Board of Marriage and Family Therapy.

How to Integrate Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging into Our Work with Clients (June 03, 2026)

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Earn 3 CEUs!*

Dr. Kimmery Newsom, Ph.D., LMFT, CFLE, is a marriage and family therapist, educator, and author with nearly 20 years of experience in mental health and higher education. She is the founder and CEO of Kimmery Newsom, LLC, a therapist and education consulting business. Dr. Newsom directs the M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy program at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. Licensed in MN, WI, and KS, she specializes in trauma recovery, racial trauma, and cultural issues. A skilled clinician and researcher, she’s first author on Culture and Diversity in Family Life Education (2020, 2025). Newsom is also a sought-after speaker on diversity, equity, inclusion, and White racial identity development.

Description

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) are definitely topics that have a place in marriage and family therapy (MFT). It is important that we address them, as the majority of MFT providers are white and female. This presentation will be centered around our ethical responsibility for developing an ongoing cultural competence, understanding cultural humility, identifying microaggressions, and the psychological impact that they have on our clients.

During this presentation, we will examine the ways that we can educate ourselves on the different cultural aspects clients present with, and how we can be more aware of our own biases. We will talk about intent v impact and how they are necessary for awareness. We will have opportunities for questions and have case examples so it will be an interactive session as well. You will learn principles related to ways to converse with clients regarding your questions about their ethnic heritage, their mindset regarding different cultures between you, as their provider and their family. Additionally, we will address issues that arise for you with work that you do with clients who are of a different cultural background as you. Privilege, power and difference will also be discussed. It is imperative to examine how privilege can be used to create scenarios in sessions that change power dynamics related to difference.

Objectives:

1. Explore Cultural Education: Learn about different cultural aspects that clients may present and how to become more aware of your own biases.

2. Understand Intent vs. Impact: Discuss the importance of intent and impact in fostering awareness during interactions.

3. Engage Interactively: Participate in an interactive session with opportunities for questions and case examples to enhance understanding.

4. Address Privilege and Power Dynamics: Examine how privilege and power influence relationships and discuss ways to manage these dynamics effectively in professional settings.

* This CE activity offered by Minnesota Association of Marriage and Family is approved by the Minnesota Board of Social Work as an approved CE Provider (approval valid through July 25, 2026).

This CE activity is pending CE approval with Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Board of Marriage and Family Therapy.

Your Zipper Is Down: Turning Difficult Feedback Into Growth (June 11, 2026)

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Earn 3 CEUs!*

Lonnie Weaver-Johnson is a dynamic and authentic public speaker known for her infectious energy, humor, and memorable storytelling. With more than 20 years of experience leading organizational change and developing people, she brings a passion for transformation to every event. Lonnie specializes in performance management, knowledge sharing, and conflict resolution, helping individuals and teams grow with confidence and clarity. A seasoned educator and mentor, she connects with audiences through practical tools, real-world stories, and a genuine commitment to creating positive, productive workplaces.

Description

Most people struggle far more with receiving feedback than giving it, and this challenge shows up every day in our workplaces. In this talk, we shine a light on the overlooked skill of accepting critical feedback with openness, clarity, and emotional maturity. Through humor, real-life stories, and practical tools, I help participants understand why becoming skilled at receiving feedback is one of the most important steps they can take toward personal and professional growth.

We begin by exploring why feedback matters, not only as a performance tool but also as a powerful relationship builder. People often assume they are good at receiving feedback simply because they have heard it before, but hearing and receiving are two very different experiences. Participants learn to recognize that difference and understand how true receiving requires curiosity, emotional regulation, and a willingness to consider new information even when it is uncomfortable.

Since emotions can quickly take over, we take a compassionate look at the natural reactions that surface when we feel criticized. These may include defensiveness, shutting down, rationalizing, or wanting to argue our point. Instead of judging these reactions, we identify what is happening in the brain and body and then practice making proactive choices about how to respond. Participants walk away with strategies for staying present, keeping themselves grounded, and choosing responses that support trust.

We also discuss what it means to respond well in the moment. Even when feedback is surprising, unclear, or feels unfair, people can learn to listen for useful insights, give themselves time to think, and respond with professionalism and clarity. The session offers practical language, mindset shifts, and simple steps that help people navigate these conversations with confidence instead of dread.

Finally, we look at what to do after the conversation ends. Participants learn how to reflect on the feedback, decide what actions make sense, and follow up in a way that strengthens relationships and demonstrates maturity. This is where true growth happens and where trust is reinforced.

By the end of the session, participants understand the importance of receiving feedback well, know how to manage their emotional responses, can distinguish hearing from truly receiving, and feel prepared with actionable steps to move forward even when the message is difficult. This talk supports teams in building cultures where openness is normal, learning is continuous, and people feel stronger for having heard the truth.

Objectives:

1. Understand why being able to receive critical feedback is important for personal and professional growth

2. Understand emotional responses and how to make proactive choices about said responses

3. Recognize the difference between merely hearing feedback and receiving it

4. Be prepared to respond in the moment and take important steps for moving forward

* This CE activity offered by Minnesota Association of Marriage and Family is approved by the Minnesota Board of Social Work as an approved CE Provider (approval valid through July 25, 2026).

This CE activity is pending CE approval with Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Board of Marriage and Family Therapy.

Engaging Tension of Diversity (June 15, 2026)

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Earn 3 CEUs!*

Description

Core Concepts

Understanding Yourself

Your perspective of the world is shaped by the identities you see and focus on. This section provides the foundation for how we see the world and how our experiences are shaped by identity factors we are and are not exposed to in development. This section creates the foundation for normalizing blindspots and ways we can increase awareness to address them.

Tension of Bias

This section explores the progression from blindspots to unconscious bias, to microaggression. The environmental and personal impact of unconscious bias and microaggressions on the person committing a microaggression, the person receiving it, and those observing it are discussed.

Tension of Privilege

Through activity and discussion, participants explore the concept of privilege and how it impacts social interactions. The tension around historic and situational aspects of privilege is discussed along with the different perspectives those with and without privilege may have.

Approaching Differences

There are many ways to approach uncomfortable and new experiences. This section provides a framework that focuses on normalizing the tension inherent in cross-cultural interactions and values and behaviors that enable people to stay open to diverse experiences.

Skills to Engage

Preparing for Tension

We will review skills focused on preparing yourself for situations that you expect may lead to tension. These skills will also assist you in reflecting on your own identity and experiences and understanding how this affects your interactions with others. The goal of these skills is to help you develop an internal awareness of how you respond in moments of tension in order to care for yourself and engage with others.

Approaching Differences

Our training will explore the approaching differences model. This skill allows you to reflect on what kind of internal space you are engaging from. We then process together how to shift toward interactions that follow a pathway of openness and empathy.

Key Takeaways

Engaging the tension of diversity provides foundational skills to interact in ways that align with a pathway of openness in moments of tension. We all have moments when we fall off this pathway, for many reasons. The key goal of this training is to help you recognize when this is happening so that you can reflect and intervene in order to work your way back to an open pathway to support the vital work you do as a mental health professional.

Objectives:

1. Examine tension's purpose and its positive impact on individual and team growth and engagement.

2. Analyze how individual identity influences perspectives and group interactions.

3. Define microaggressions and discuss their impact on the aggressor, victim, and observer.

4. Explore different experiences of privilege based on different aspects of identity.

5. Recognize the two responses to differences in conflict situations and evaluate actions to foster a culture of belonging.

* This CE activity offered by Minnesota Association of Marriage and Family is approved by the Minnesota Board of Social Work as an approved CE Provider (approval valid through July 25, 2026).

This CE activity is pending CE approval with Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Board of Marriage and Family Therapy.

Conference Committee Meeting (June 19, 2026)

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 14:00:00 GMT

MAMFT monthly Conference Committee Meetings are open to MAMFT members; they are encouraged to attend. Join us to learn more about the committee's efforts and current projects.

Meetings are held at 9 AM on the third Friday of the month.

Conference Committee

Google Meet joining info

Video call link: https://meet.google.com/nvi-giyc-vxx

Or dial: ‪(US) +1 224-650-8394‬ PIN: ‪458 599 924‬#

More phone numbers: https://tel.meet/nvi-giyc-vxx?pin=1187684657982

Questions about attending a meeting? Contact MAMFT's Training Director at devin@mamft.net

MAMFT June Board Meeting (June 26, 2026)

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 14:00:00 GMT

MAMFT Monthly Board Meetings are open to the public and MAMFT members are encouraged to attend. Join us to learn more about the board's efforts and current projects

Friday Jun 26, 2026 ⋅ 9am – 11am (Central Time - Chicago)

Google Meet joining info

Video call link: https://meet.google.com/oxk-ycgi-uxa?hs=224

Questions about attending a board meeting? Contact MAMFT's Secretary Jenn Geryol at Secretary@MAMFT.net

Understanding Antisemitism: Impacts and Approaches for Mental Health Providers (June 27, 2026)

Sat, 27 Jun 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Earn 3 CEUs!*

Loni Fagel, MA, MEd, LPCC, is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, EMDR Certified Therapist (EMDRIA), EMDRIA Approved Consultant, and international speaker specializing in expressive arts therapy. Her work integrates neuroscience, creativity, and trauma-informed practice to support healing from grief, medical trauma, and intergenerational trauma, particularly within Jewish identity and experiences of antisemitism. A presenter and co-author of Friends of the Bush: A Journey of Safety and Connection, Loni provides EMDR consultation and trainings worldwide and is an active member of EMDRIA, ACA, IEATA, and AMHCA.

Description

This training explores the historical and contemporary impact of antisemitism on mental health, intergenerational trauma, and resilience. By examining the psychological effects of historical persecution—including the Holocaust—and ongoing antisemitism worldwide, participants will gain a deeper understanding of how these experiences shape identity, community, and well-being across generations.

A key focus of the training will be the role of epigenetics in trauma transmission, providing insight into how historical traumas can affect individuals and communities long after the events have occurred. Participants will explore how antisemitism manifests in today’s world, including the psychological and emotional toll of recent events such as the October 7th attacks in Israel. These discussions will provide context for understanding the reactivation of generational trauma and the unique challenges Jewish individuals and communities face in the present day.

Through discussions, case studies, and practical exercises, clinicians will examine the intersection of identity, trauma, and resilience. The training will equip mental health professionals with the tools to engage in informed and sensitive conversations about antisemitism and its psychological impact while fostering a therapeutic space that promotes healing and empowerment.

Additionally, this program will emphasize the importance of inclusivity and awareness in clinical practice. Participants will develop practical strategies to support clients who have been directly or indirectly affected by antisemitism, historical trauma, and recent global events. By fostering an understanding of the complexities surrounding these issues, mental health professionals can better support Jewish clients and contribute to a more culturally competent and trauma-informed practice.

This training is designed for therapists, counselors, and mental health professionals who seek to expand their knowledge of historical and intergenerational trauma, epigenetics, and the impact of antisemitism in today’s world. By the end of the session, participants will have gained valuable insights and actionable strategies to enhance their clinical work, advocate for inclusivity, and support healing in affected individuals and communities.

Objectives:

1. Understand the historical and contemporary impact of antisemitism on mental health.

2. Explore intergenerational trauma and epigenetics in family systems.

3. Examine the intersection of identity, community, and resilience in therapy.

4. Develop trauma-informed strategies to support Jewish clients.

5. Enhance cultural competency and inclusivity in clinical practice.

* This CE activity offered by Minnesota Association of Marriage and Family is approved by the Minnesota Board of Social Work as an approved CE Provider (approval valid through July 25, 2026).

This CE activity is pending CE approval with Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Board of Marriage and Family Therapy.

Conference Committee Meeting (July 17, 2026)

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 14:00:00 GMT

MAMFT monthly Conference Committee Meetings are open to MAMFT members; they are encouraged to attend. Join us to learn more about the committee's efforts and current projects.

Meetings are held at 9 AM on the third Friday of the month.

Conference Committee

Google Meet joining info

Video call link: https://meet.google.com/nvi-giyc-vxx

Or dial: ‪(US) +1 224-650-8394‬ PIN: ‪458 599 924‬#

More phone numbers: https://tel.meet/nvi-giyc-vxx?pin=1187684657982

Questions about attending a meeting? Contact MAMFT's Training Director at devin@mamft.net

MAMFT July Board Meeting (July 24, 2026)

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 14:00:00 GMT

MAMFT Monthly Board Meetings are open to the public and MAMFT members are encouraged to attend. Join us to learn more about the board's efforts and current projects

Friday Jul 24, 2026 ⋅ 9am – 12pm (Central Time - Chicago)

Google Meet joining info

Video call link: https://meet.google.com/osa-rbmw-brd?hs=224

Questions about attending a board meeting? Contact MAMFT's Secretary Jenn Geryol at Secretary@MAMFT.net

Conference Committee Meeting (August 21, 2026)

Fri, 21 Aug 2026 14:00:00 GMT

MAMFT monthly Conference Committee Meetings are open to MAMFT members; they are encouraged to attend. Join us to learn more about the committee's efforts and current projects.

Meetings are held at 9 AM on the third Friday of the month.

Conference Committee

Google Meet joining info

Video call link: https://meet.google.com/nvi-giyc-vxx

Or dial: ‪(US) +1 224-650-8394‬ PIN: ‪458 599 924‬#

More phone numbers: https://tel.meet/nvi-giyc-vxx?pin=1187684657982

Questions about attending a meeting? Contact MAMFT's Training Director at devin@mamft.net

MAMFT August Board Meeting (August 28, 2026)

Fri, 28 Aug 2026 14:00:00 GMT

MAMFT Monthly Board Meetings are open to the public and MAMFT members are encouraged to attend. Join us to learn more about the board's efforts and current projects

Friday Aug 28, 2026 ⋅ 9am – 12pm (Central Time - Chicago)

Google Meet joining info

Video call link: https://meet.google.com/jyc-qimd-hyb?hs=224

Questions about attending a board meeting? Contact MAMFT's Secretary Jenn Geryol at Secretary@MAMFT.net

Conference Committee Meeting (September 18, 2026)

Fri, 18 Sep 2026 14:00:00 GMT

MAMFT monthly Conference Committee Meetings are open to MAMFT members; they are encouraged to attend. Join us to learn more about the committee's efforts and current projects.

Meetings are held at 9 AM on the third Friday of the month.

Conference Committee

Google Meet joining info

Video call link: https://meet.google.com/nvi-giyc-vxx

Or dial: ‪(US) +1 224-650-8394‬ PIN: ‪458 599 924‬#

More phone numbers: https://tel.meet/nvi-giyc-vxx?pin=1187684657982

Questions about attending a meeting? Contact MAMFT's Training Director at devin@mamft.net

MAMFT September Board Meeting (September 25, 2026)

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 14:00:00 GMT

MAMFT Monthly Board Meetings are open to the public and MAMFT members are encouraged to attend. Join us to learn more about the board's efforts and current projects

Friday Sep 25, 2026 ⋅ 9am – 12pm (Central Time - Chicago)

Google Meet joining info

Video call link: https://meet.google.com/yzw-nfpt-ybv?hs=224

Questions about attending a board meeting? Contact MAMFT's Secretary Jenn Geryol at Secretary@MAMFT.net

Conference Committee Meeting (October 16, 2026)

Fri, 16 Oct 2026 14:00:00 GMT

MAMFT monthly Conference Committee Meetings are open to MAMFT members; they are encouraged to attend. Join us to learn more about the committee's efforts and current projects.

Meetings are held at 9 AM on the third Friday of the month.

Conference Committee

Google Meet joining info

Video call link: https://meet.google.com/nvi-giyc-vxx

Or dial: ‪(US) +1 224-650-8394‬ PIN: ‪458 599 924‬#

More phone numbers: https://tel.meet/nvi-giyc-vxx?pin=1187684657982

Questions about attending a meeting? Contact MAMFT's Training Director at devin@mamft.net

MAMFT October Board Meeting (October 23, 2026)

Fri, 23 Oct 2026 14:00:00 GMT

MAMFT Monthly Board Meetings are open to the public and MAMFT members are encouraged to attend. Join us to learn more about the board's efforts and current projects

Friday Oct 23, 2026 ⋅ 9am – 12pm (Central Time - Chicago)

Google Meet joining info

Video call link: https://meet.google.com/oob-bbdd-gbq?hs=224

Questions about attending a board meeting? Contact MAMFT's Secretary Jenn Geryol at Secretary@MAMFT.net

MAMFT November Board Meeting (November 20, 2026)

Fri, 20 Nov 2026 15:00:00 GMT

MAMFT Monthly Board Meetings are open to the public and MAMFT members are encouraged to attend. Join us to learn more about the board's efforts and current projects

Friday Nov 20, 2026 ⋅ 9am – 11am (Central Time - Chicago)

Google Meet joining info

Video call link: https://meet.google.com/cfo-qsai-ihs?hs=224

Questions about attending a board meeting? Contact MAMFT's Secretary Jenn Geryol at Secretary@MAMFT.net

Conference Committee Meeting (November 20, 2026)

Fri, 20 Nov 2026 15:00:00 GMT

MAMFT monthly Conference Committee Meetings are open to MAMFT members; they are encouraged to attend. Join us to learn more about the committee's efforts and current projects.

Meetings are held at 9 AM on the third Friday of the month.

Conference Committee

Google Meet joining info

Video call link: https://meet.google.com/nvi-giyc-vxx

Or dial: ‪(US) +1 224-650-8394‬ PIN: ‪458 599 924‬#

More phone numbers: https://tel.meet/nvi-giyc-vxx?pin=1187684657982

Questions about attending a meeting? Contact MAMFT's Training Director at devin@mamft.net

MAMFT December Board Meeting (December 11, 2026)

Fri, 11 Dec 2026 15:00:00 GMT

MAMFT Monthly Board Meetings are open to the public and MAMFT members are encouraged to attend. Join us to learn more about the board's efforts and current projects

Friday Dec 11, 2026 ⋅ 9am – 12pm (Central Time - Chicago)

Google Meet joining info

Video call link: https://meet.google.com/mgm-azgy-gka?hs=224

Questions about attending a board meeting? Contact MAMFT's Secretary Jenn Geryol at Secretary@MAMFT.net