Act 48 Processing PPA2025

6/18/2025 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM

Please select this "workshop" if you will be needing PPA to process Act 48 credits for you following the convention.

Act 48 of 1999 requires all Pennsylvania educators holding Pennsylvania public school certification including Instructional I and II, Educational Specialist I and II, Administrative, Supervisory, Letters of Eligibility and all vocational certificates to participate in ongoing professional education.

W01 - Act 31: Recognizing and Reporting Suspected Child Abuse in Pennsylvania

6/18/2025 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Presenter: Rachael Baturin, MPH, JD; Molly Cowan, PsyD

W01 - 2 CE Credits - Introductory

In 2013 and 2014 Pennsylvania enacted numerous changes to the Child Protective Services Law. The purpose of this workshop is to review the signs leading to the recognition of child abuse and the reporting requirements for suspected child abuse in Pennsylvania. Those mandated reporters who complete this course will fulfill their mandatory requirement for licensing renewal. This workshop describes the child welfare services in Pennsylvania, defines important terms related to the child abuse reporting law, and delineates the responsibilities of mandated reporters, ways to recognize child abuse, and other topics. This workshop fulfills the Act 31 requirement.

Presenters: Rachael Baturin, MPH, JD; Molly Cowan, PsyD

Program Objectives
At the conclusion of this program, participants will be able to:
1. Explain the definition/categories of child abuse as outlined in the PA Child Protective Services Law.
2. List the common indicators of suspected child abuse.
3. Describe the roles and responsibilities for persons required to report suspected child abuse (mandated reporters).
4. Apply the requirements and procedures for reporting suspected child abuse.
5. Describe the penalties for mandated reporters who willfully fail to report suspected child abuse.

W03 - Ethical and Legal Considerations in Supervision

6/18/2025 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Presenter: Linda Knauss, PhD, ABPP; Rachael Baturin, MPH, JD

W03 - 3 CE Credits - Intermediate

Supervision is the primary professional training model for mental health clinicians, and providing supervision is a key task for many clinicians. Most mental health professionals begin their career as supervisees, and the ways in which they are influenced during this period plays a critical role in their professional development. This workshop will focus on the essential elements of a successful supervisory relationship, and their goals of supervision. In addition, the impact of cultural competence on the supervisory relationship will be discussed. This workshop fulfills the Ethics requirement.

Presenters: Linda Knauss, PhD, ABPP; Rachael Baturin, MPH, JD

Program Objectives
At the conclusion of this program, participants will be able to:

1. List 2 duties of supervisors that emerge from statutes, ethics codes, and the professional literature.
2. Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of procedures typically used in monitoring supervision.
3. Identify the potential types of liability specific to supervision.

W05 - Anatomy of a Difficult Dialogue: Part 2

6/18/2025 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Presenter: Jade Logan, PsyD, ABPP; Lindsay Phillips, PsyD, ABPP

W05 - 3 CE Credits - Intermediate

This presentation focuses on preparing attendees to engage in difficult dialogue. The facilitators will provide a brief overview of a framework to engage in difficult dialogue. The facilitators will also provide an in-depth analysis of three scenarios using the framework. Participants will be encouraged to engage actively to practice the techniques.

Presenters: Jade Logan, PsyD, ABPP; Lindsay Phillips, PsyD, ABPP

Program Objectives
At the conclusion of this program, participants will be able to:

1. Describe constructive conversations model (Kim & Del Prado, 2019).
2. Demonstrate how to utilize the model through case examples.
3. List take aways to implement the model in future difficult dialogues.

W07 - From Clinician to Leader: Developing Leadership Competencies for Psychologists

6/18/2025 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Presenter: Jeanne DiVincenzo, PsyD

W07 - 3 CE Credits - Introductory

Psychologists possess unique skills for effective leadership but often lack formal training. This interactive workshop explores key leadership competencies for academic medicine, non-profits, and beyond. Attendees will learn to lead teams, foster DEI, and create safe, welcoming environments, leveraging their psychological expertise to thrive in leadership roles.

Presenter: Jeanne DiVincenzo, PsyD

Program Objectives
At the conclusion of this program, participants will be able to:

1. Define key leadership competencies relevant to psychologists in clinical and organizational settings.
2. Apply psychological theories and research to leadership practices, including team dynamics and organizational change.
3. Identify strategies for integrating DEI principles.
4. Develop a personalized plan for leadership development.

W09 - Sleep and Mental Health for the Non-Sleep Specialist

6/18/2025 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Presenter: Elaine Boland, PhD; Jacqueline Kloss, PhD; Philip Gehrman, PhD

W09 - 3 CE Credits - Introductory

Sleep is vital to mental health. Sleep disorder symptoms, however, remain under-assessed and under-treated, leading to attenuated treatment responses. This interactive workshop aims to: 1) improve awareness of how different sleep problems present in clinical practices; 2) enhance integration of sleep-focused assessments; and 3) optimize access to effective sleep interventions.

Presenters: Elaine Boland, PhD; Jacqueline Kloss, PhD; Philip Gehrman, PhD

Program Objectives
At the conclusion of this program, participants will be able to:

1. Describe features of common sleep problems in individuals with mental health concerns.
2. Identify appropriate assessment tools for evaluating the need for specialized behavioral sleep interventions.
3. Enhance mental health treatment planning to include modifiable sleep concerns.

W11 - What is Psychotherapy? Integration of Recovery Principles with Psychotherapy

6/18/2025 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Presenter: Mark Schenker, PhD

W11 - 3 CE Credits - Intermediate

Psychotherapy Integration includes both Theoretical and Technical Integration. This workshop proposes a model of psychotherapy which includes both perspectives, drawing on the 12-Step model of recovery as a template. Treatment principles derived from working with those in recovery will be reviewed for their relevance to understanding the process of psychotherapy.

Presenter: Mark Schenker, PhD

Program Objectives
At the conclusion of this program, participants will be able to:

1. Define a personal philosophy of psychotherapy.
2. Incorporate basic principles from the Recovery approach in psychotherapy.
3. Assess levels of therapy and apply appropriate interventions.

W13 - Brief Overview of Prescription Privileges for Psychologists and Our Advocacy Efforts

6/19/2025 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Presenter: Rachael Baturin, MPH, JD

W13 - 1 CE Credit - Introductory

This workshop will give an overview of prescription privileges for psychologists. Participants will gain an understanding about prescriptive authority for psychologists, our advocacy efforts in Pennsylvania, and how to get involved in the process.

Presenter: Rachael Baturin, MPH, JD

Program Objectives
At the conclusion of this program, participants will be able to:

1. Describe the qualifications for prescription authority.
2. Explain our advocacy efforts in Pennsylvania regarding prescriptive authority.

 

W15 - So your client or their loved one is in a cult: How to recognize it and what to do about it

6/19/2025 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Presenter: Steve K. D. Eichel, PhD

W15 - 3 CE Credits - Introductory

Both anecdotal and formal research have found that most therapists have little or no experience or training with the psychology of cultism. The goal of this workshop will be to provide enough information to recognize cultic dynamics and involvement, and be able to locate and utilize resources to help.

Presenter: Steve K. D. Eichel, PhD

Program Objectives
At the conclusion of this program, participants will be able to:

1. Explain the psychological dynamics typically found in a "cultic [coercive-control] relationship", whether that is with a large group, a small group, or an individual.
2. Recognize and articulate the subtle and not-so-subtle indicators of a cultic relationship.
3. Articulate the important differences between adults recruited into a cult vs. those born into a cult ("Born Intos" and "SGA/MGAs").
4. Articulate what to say, what not to say, and what kinds of intervention to consider or avoid, when dealing with clients involved with a cult, or clients with loved ones in a cult.

W17 - Introduction to PennPsyPAC- Political Giving for the Advancement of Psychology

6/19/2025 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Presenter: Rachael Baturin, MPH, JD; Michael DeStefano, PhD

W17 - 1 CE Credit - Introductory

This workshop will introduce you to our political action committee - PennPsyPAC. Members of the PennPsyPAC Board along with PPA staff will provide you with an overview of the functions of the PAC and how you can get involved to support the advancement of psychology in Pennsylvania.

Presenters: Rachael Baturin, MPH, JD; Michael DeStefano, PhD

Program Objectives
At the conclusion of this program, participants will be able to:

1. Describe PennPsyPAC.
2. Describe how PennPsyPAC helps advocate for the advancement of psychology in Pennsylvania.

W19 - Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Luncheon - Work Matters: Examining the Hidden Impacts of Social Class

6/19/2025 11:30 AM - 2:30 PM

Presenter: Maureen Perry-Jenkins, PhD

W19 - 3 CE Credits - Introductory

Social class affects our health, well-being, quality of life and relationships. The goal of this workshop is to explore the concept of social class as it shapes individual identity as well as creates a context for the development of roles and relationships. We will examine classism, cultures of privilege and poverty, and how class intersects with race and gender. We will develop greater cultural competency around the concept of class, gain a deeper understanding of how social class impacts identity and relationships, and develop skills that will help to create more empathic and supportive environments in therapeutic and educational settings.

Presenter: Maureen Perry-Jenkins, PhD

Program Objectives
At the conclusion of this program, participants will be able to:

1. Explore the concept of social class and consider its impact on individuals and society.
2. Identify class privilege and discrimination and understand how these concepts play out in different settings.
3. Develop strategies to address class inequalities in our relationships, policies, and systems.

W21 - Pennsylvania's Mental Health Crisis: Prescribing Psychology Can Help

6/19/2025 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Presenter: Dan Warner, PhD, MSCP; Alicia Plemmons, PhD

W21 - 3 CE Credits - Introductory

Pennsylvania faces a growing mental health crisis, including rising suicide rates. This panel features national leaders on prescribing psychology, highlighting how trained psychologists save lives, improve outcomes, and benefit colleagues like psychiatrists. Learn about the research, policy, and impact of prescribing psychologists in addressing this critical issue.

Presenters: Dan Warner, PhD, MSCP; Alicia Plemmons, PhD

Program Objectives
At the conclusion of this program, participants will be able to:

1. Review some of the key data points that demonstrate the severity of the current mental health crisis.
2. Describe the proposed legislation in Pennsylvania which outlines the learning and supervision requirements for psychologists to prescribe mental health medications.
3. Assess the benefits and costs of adding prescribing to your mental health practice.
4. Explain how the research shows that the field of psychiatry is not negatively impacted by prescribing psychology.
5. Detail the public health benefits that prescribing psychology has brought to places where licensing laws have passed.

W23 - Leveraging the Past to Understand the Future of Talent Optimization and Organizational Counseling

6/19/2025 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Presenter: Ross DeSimone, MA

W23 - 3 CE Credits - Intermediate

This interactive workshop offers tools to apply current psychological practices and strategies in a business setting. It defines future consulting applications to support organizational performance management objectives.

Presenter: Ross DeSimone, MA

Program Objectives
At the conclusion of this program, participants will be able to:

1. Define the key applications of psychological principles and practices for leadership development.
2. Describe the critical role of executive coaching for the future development of organizational sturdiness.
3. Apply approaches to building and installing talent management strategies in future business settings.

PPA2025 Exhibitor Wine and Cheese Reception

6/19/2025 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Exhibitor Wine & Cheese Reception

Join your peers and our exhibitors in the exhibit hall for this event on Thursday evening! Visit exhibitor booths to get drink tickets and enjoy snacks during this time of socialization and networking that is always a popular event!

W25 - The Legislative Process 101: An Introduction to the LGAC

6/20/2025 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Presenter: Tanya Vishnevsky, PhD; Rachael Baturin, MPH, JD

W25 - 1 CE Credit - Introductory

This workshop is intended to provide a brief overview of the workings of the Legislative and Governmental Affairs Committee (LGAC). We will start by presenting a summary of how legislation works in PA, provide some examples of legislation that we have worked on in the past year, and describe how psychologists can be more involved in legislative and advocacy work in our state.

Presenters: Tanya Vishnevsky, PhD; Rachael Baturin, MPH, JD

Program Objectives
At the conclusion of this program, participants will be able to:

1. Name the three branches of government in PA.
2. Explain how the LGAC works to support a bill in the PA House or Senate.
3. Identify at least three ways psychologists can become involved in legislative advocacy in PA.

W27 - Telehealth & Interjurisdictional Practice: Ethics & Risk Management

6/20/2025 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Presenter: Molly Cowan, PsyD

W27 - 3 CE Credits - Intermediate

Many psychologists incorporate telehealth into their daily work, and now more than ever, clinicians face scenarios where their patients are located outside the jurisdictions in which they are licensed. This workshop will focus on strategies for practicing telehealth ethically, legally, and in a patient's best interested clinically. There will be a focus on the pros and cons of PSYPACT as an option for interjurisdictional practice, as well as alternatives for providing services via telehealth in other jurisdictions, both nationally and internationally. This workshop fulfills the Ethics requirement.

Presenter: Molly Cowan, PsyD

Program Objectives
At the conclusion of this program, participants will be able to:

1. Discuss the ethical and legal implications of practicing in other jurisdictions.
2. Describe the process of appropriate practice under PSYPACT.
3. Identify strategies for providing good clinical care using telehealth.

W29 - Augmenting Continuing Education with Artificial Intelligence: Ethical Considerations and Innovations

6/20/2025 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Presenter: Krista Boyer, PsyD, MBA; Ryan Torrie, BS

W29 - 2 CE Credits - Introductory

This program explore the use of Artificial Intelligence to enhance continuing education for psychologists, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. It focuses on ethical AI development, evidence-based practices, and creating accessible, interactive learning experiences to support ongoing professional development, ensuring high-quality, culturally competent mental health services. This workshop fulfills 2 credits towards the Ethics requirement.

Presenters: Krista Boyer, PsyD, MBA; Ryan Torrie, BS

Program Objectives
At the conclusion of this program, participants will be able to:

1. Describe the fundamentals of AI technology and its relevance to psychological practices.
2. Identify potential applications of AI in psychological and mental health services.
3. Explain the roles of psychologists, researchers, AI developers, and client representatives in developing and applying AI tools for psychology.
4. Identify key ethical considerations and cultural sensitivities in the use of AI tools within mental health settings.
5. Analyze practical examples and case studies of AI applications in psychology and assess their effectiveness.

W31 - Legal Issues in Schools for School Psychologists (and others)

6/20/2025 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Presenter: Shirley Woika, PhD

W31 - 3 CE Credits - Intermediate

Legal issues abound in public school. This session will provide information regarding hot topics (student freedom of expression, threat assessment, search and seizure, yoga/mindfulness in schools, services animals) and diversity issues (immigrant status, racial inequities related to redlining, unintended bias in IQ tests, homelessness, English learners).

Presenter: Shirley Woika, PhD

Program Objectives
At the conclusion of this program, participants will be able to:

1. Describe how legal practice fits into a comprehensive role as outlined by the NASP Practice Model.
2. Explain basic relevant legal terminology necessary to participate in discussions of school law issues with supervisors, school counsel, parents, and members of the community.
3. Describe the legal responsibilities of educators regarding the rights of all students and apply that knowledge to practical scenarios.
4. Apply legal principles to determine an appropriate and legally defensible course of action in a related scenario.

W33 - Neuropsychological Community: Challenges and Opportunities for Psychologists

6/20/2025 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Presenter: Tad Gorske, PhD; Melissa Sutcliffe, PhD

00W33 - 3 CE Credits - Intermediate

This workshop will provide descriptions of common pediatric and adult neuropsychological disorders, detail the role of neuropsychology in assessment and rehabilitation of these disorders, and cover key considerations in working with individuals with such disorders. Key factors pertaining to the psychological care of individuals reentering the community will be reviewed.

Presenters: Tad Gorske, PhD; Melissa Sutcliffe, PhD

Program Objectives

At the conclusion of this program, participants will be able to:

1. Identify the diagnostic criterion of some common pediatric and adult neuropsychological disorders.
2. List at least two rehabilitation needs of patients with pediatric and adult neuropsychological disorders when they re-enter the community.
3. Describe at least two ways psychological services can assist patients in community re-integration and adjustment.

W35 - Cross-Cultural Clinical and Forensic Assessment

6/20/2025 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Presenter: I. Bruce Frumkin, PhD, ABPP

W35 - 3 CE Credits - Intermediate

This program will delve into culture and diversity, broadly defined and how they have an impact on conducting clinical and forensic assessments. The focus will be on intelligence and personality testing, language and the use of interpreters, and a discussion with case examples This program will be interactive in nature.

Presenter: I. Bruce Frumkin, PhD, ABPP

Program Objectives
At the conclusion of this program, participants will be able to:

1. Conceptualize culture from a broadened perspective.
2. Apply cultural considerations in their clinical and forensic evaluations.
3. Explain at least three ways culture impacts intelligence testing results.
4. Describe how and when to seek cultural consultants.
5. Discuss common pitfalls in conducting assessments when culture is inappropriately evaluated.

W37 - Artificial Intelligence and Psychology: Exploring its Intersection as a Psychologist, Educator, Student, and Client

6/21/2025 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Presenter: Harsimran Kaur Wadhwa, MS, LPC, NCC; Raquel Emdur, PsyD; Kristen Ullrich, PsyD

W37 - 3 CE Credits - Introductory

This presentation aims to explore how technology and Generative AI impacts the student trainee, psychologist, and supervisor. We will examine our biases and the potential impact on training and on clients. We will discuss misconceptions regarding using AI and the ethics surrounding it.

Presenters: Harsimran Kaur Wadhwa, MS, LPC, NCC; Raquel Emdur, PsyD; Kristen Ullrich, PsyD

Program Objectives
At the conclusion of this program, participants will be able to:

1. Describe how trends in Generative AI impact the student trainee, psychologist, and supervisor.
2. Discuss the intersectional perspective of the psychologist, who manages their own roles and personal/professional identity as a student, clinician, educator, and supervisor.
3. Identify ethical domains and considerations related to Generative AI.

W39 - Therapeutic Table Top Role Playing Games in Practice

6/21/2025 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Presenter: Amelia Herbst, PsyD; Elizabeth Kilmer, PhD; Jared Kilmer, PhD

W39 - 3 CE Credits - Intermediate

Table top roleplaying games (TTRPGs) are becoming a popular modality in group therapy. This workshop demonstrates how to run a therapeutic game by providing participants hands on experience with game play. Additionally, participants will be able to acquire skills related to documentation of and ability to describe therapeutic TTRPGs.

Presenters: Amelia Herbst, PsyD; Elizabeth Kilmer, PhD; Jared Kilmer, PhD

Program Objectives
At the conclusion of this program, participants will be able to:

1. Demonstrate use of basic mechanisms of TTRPGs in therapy.
2. Effectively write a treatment paperwork related to game play sessions.
3. Discuss research related to incorporating TTRPGs in therapeutic practice and its unique approach to therapy.