Narrative therapy, homelessness, mental health, and substance use

with Barbara Baumgartner (MSW, RCSW)

Brian Dean Williams (MA, CCC)

and “Insiders”

Isaac Newton once said: “If I have seen further than others, it is by standing upon the shoulders of giants.”

After three years with the RainCity Housing First ACT Team, Brian and Barbara have learned more from program participants than any textbook could teach. In their workshop, they will use Narrative Therapy to show how workers can meaningfully respond to the daunting, systemic issues of homelessness, substance use, and mental health.

This collaborative, respectful approach centers each person as the expert in their own life. The workshop includes a practical overview of Narrative Therapy and its application to this field. But you don’t need any prior knowledge to attend. Frontline workers are especially welcome. There are no academic requirements. Instead, you will experience the approach firsthand through videotaped or live interviews, therapeutic documents, group discussions, and more.

Details

Date: Saturday January 12th, 2013

Location: Community room – Woodwards Community Housing – 131 W.Hastings Street, 10th Floor

Time: 9am – 4pm / Arrive at 9:00am for coffee/tea/pastries.  Session commences in community room at 9:30am and ends at 4pm.

Food: Large kitchen and fridge available for your use, if you want to bring your lunch.  Many restaurants and cafes nearby.

What to bring: Water container, lunch and snacks as needed.

Cost: sliding scale $50 – 150.  Your employer may provide professional development funding (invoices available).  Please contribute the maximum amount you are able.  Nobody turned away for lack of funds – let us know if you cannot pay.

Registration: email your name, phone number, emergency contact person / number, and level of experience with narrative therapy to:  workshop@briandeanwilliams.com .  Payment arrangements required to confirm registration.

Payment:  via cheque (make arrangements via email address above), or PayPal