Session #1: Managing Anxiety and Depression as We Age
Anxiety and depression are the two most common mental health concerns across the lifespan but are often under-recognized and under-treated in older adults. In this breakout session, attendees will learn how anxiety and depression are uniquely impacted by the context of aging and how to identify when experiences move beyond typical worries and the blues. Interactive discussion and activities will leave attendees with evidence-based strategies for managing these conditions.
Professional Bio of Kate Krajci, LCSW, Founder of Life Changes Counseling and Care Planning and President of the Illinois Coalition on Mental Health and Aging
Kate Krajci, LCSW is the Founder of Life Changes Counseling and Care Planning: a private practice in Chicago. Ms. Krajci has provided services to older adults and family caregivers for 14 years, with expertise in mental health, caregiving, dementia, care coordination, and the long-term impact of chronic illness and disability on individuals and families. Ms. Krajci is President of the Illinois Coalition on Mental Health and Aging, a member of the American Society on Aging's Mental Health and Aging Network Leadership Council, and a leading member of the Illinois Coalition on Substance Use and Aging. At the University of Chicago School of Social Service Administration, she directs and is an instructor for the "Social Work with Older Adults" post-graduate program and coordinates older adult specialization programming for Master's degree students. She received her Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Chicago School of Social Service Administration.
Professional Bio of Amy Wilbourne, Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Amy Wilbourne is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker offering psychotherapy, consultation, and training throughout the Chicagoland area. She completed her Master of Social Work and clinical training at Loyola University of Chicago where she specialized in work with individuals and families working through chronic and terminal illness, aging, life transitions, grief, and loss. She has worked with individuals and families in a variety of settings, including community agencies, home hospice and palliative care, and long term care. Additionally, she has worked as a Field Consultant and Graduate Student Instructor at The University of Chicago, The School of Social Service Administration. Ms. Wilbourne has more than 13 years of clinical experience providing support to individuals and families impacted by grief and loss, caring for ill and aging family members, working through life-stage transitions, experiencing depression and anxiety, coping with chronic and life-limiting illnesses, and moving through the journey of dementia.
Professional Bio of Kate Krajci, LCSW, Founder of Life Changes Counseling and Care Planning and President of the Illinois Coalition on Mental Health and Aging
Kate Krajci, LCSW is the Founder of Life Changes Counseling and Care Planning: a private practice in Chicago. Ms. Krajci has provided services to older adults and family caregivers for 14 years, with expertise in mental health, caregiving, dementia, care coordination, and the long-term impact of chronic illness and disability on individuals and families. Ms. Krajci is President of the Illinois Coalition on Mental Health and Aging, a member of the American Society on Aging's Mental Health and Aging Network Leadership Council, and a leading member of the Illinois Coalition on Substance Use and Aging. At the University of Chicago School of Social Service Administration, she directs and is an instructor for the "Social Work with Older Adults" post-graduate program and coordinates older adult specialization programming for Master's degree students. She received her Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Chicago School of Social Service Administration.
Professional Bio of Amy Wilbourne, Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Amy Wilbourne is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker offering psychotherapy, consultation, and training throughout the Chicagoland area. She completed her Master of Social Work and clinical training at Loyola University of Chicago where she specialized in work with individuals and families working through chronic and terminal illness, aging, life transitions, grief, and loss. She has worked with individuals and families in a variety of settings, including community agencies, home hospice and palliative care, and long term care. Additionally, she has worked as a Field Consultant and Graduate Student Instructor at The University of Chicago, The School of Social Service Administration. Ms. Wilbourne has more than 13 years of clinical experience providing support to individuals and families impacted by grief and loss, caring for ill and aging family members, working through life-stage transitions, experiencing depression and anxiety, coping with chronic and life-limiting illnesses, and moving through the journey of dementia.
Session #2: How to Thrive as a Caregiver – Challenges, Supports, Resources, and Rewards
Being a caregiver requires a high degree of dedication and compassion. While caring for others, one can easily feel like they are losing themselves in the process. Yet, in order to be a good caregiver, one must practice self-care too. There is a significant body of research that indicates that the happiest, healthiest caregivers are those who also attend to their own personal health, have a solid support system in place, and find ways to continue to develop and pursue their own unique interests. This workshop will provide strategies and resources to help thrive as a caregiver.
Professional Bio of Heather Resnick, MA in Clinical Psychology, Caregiver Specialist at North Shore Senior Center
Heather Resnick received a BA in Psychology from Northwestern and a MA in Clinical Psychology from Roosevelt University. She completed the Certificate on Aging program at the Institute of Geriatric Social Work in 2008. Ms. Resnick has over 25 years of experience working with adults and children in a variety of clinical settings, including residential treatment, vocational training, and vision therapy. She has worked at the North Shore Senior Center (NSSC) for 11 years and is currently the Caregiver Specialist where she works with family members caring for a loved one with a chronic illness, administers the respite program, provides caregiver education, and facilitates a weekly PD caregiver support group. She has also worked at NSSC as a Case Manager, APS Case Worker, and Peer Counseling Coordinator.
Professional Bio of Ben Ellenson, MSW, Caregiver Specialist at North Shore Senior Center
Ben Ellenson, MSW is a Caregiver Specialist at North Shore Senior Center where he works with family members to identify and manage the stresses and challenges of caregiving. Mr. Ellenson works to connect family caregivers with community resources, to provide supportive counseling, to administer respite funding, to facilitate monthly support groups, and to provide educational events and outreach. He received a Bachelor of Social Work degree from the University of North Dakota and a Master of Social Work degree from DePaul University. Over the past 5 years, he has worked with adults and youth in a variety of settings including social service agencies, high schools, and hospitals. Mr. Ellenson is committed to improving the well-being of older adults and those that care for them.
Professional Bio of Heather Resnick, MA in Clinical Psychology, Caregiver Specialist at North Shore Senior Center
Heather Resnick received a BA in Psychology from Northwestern and a MA in Clinical Psychology from Roosevelt University. She completed the Certificate on Aging program at the Institute of Geriatric Social Work in 2008. Ms. Resnick has over 25 years of experience working with adults and children in a variety of clinical settings, including residential treatment, vocational training, and vision therapy. She has worked at the North Shore Senior Center (NSSC) for 11 years and is currently the Caregiver Specialist where she works with family members caring for a loved one with a chronic illness, administers the respite program, provides caregiver education, and facilitates a weekly PD caregiver support group. She has also worked at NSSC as a Case Manager, APS Case Worker, and Peer Counseling Coordinator.
Professional Bio of Ben Ellenson, MSW, Caregiver Specialist at North Shore Senior Center
Ben Ellenson, MSW is a Caregiver Specialist at North Shore Senior Center where he works with family members to identify and manage the stresses and challenges of caregiving. Mr. Ellenson works to connect family caregivers with community resources, to provide supportive counseling, to administer respite funding, to facilitate monthly support groups, and to provide educational events and outreach. He received a Bachelor of Social Work degree from the University of North Dakota and a Master of Social Work degree from DePaul University. Over the past 5 years, he has worked with adults and youth in a variety of settings including social service agencies, high schools, and hospitals. Mr. Ellenson is committed to improving the well-being of older adults and those that care for them.
Session #3: Aging with Dignity: Self-Care Across the Life Span
This breakout session is about reminding us to love ourselves. Too often aging today means struggling personally with physical and emotional health problems along with a range of socioeconomic challenges. For many, by mid-life, medical, mental health, personal, and family issues begin accelerating leading to fatigue, feeling overwhelmed, and chronic stress, and these then intensify the problems. Who can find the time to put themselves first to nourish the love that is within? In this workshop, attendees will learn secrets of ancient Chinese medicine’s approach to living healthy into old age. Attendees will leave with gentle energy-based Qigong (“Chi-Kung”) practices that can be used at any age and at home to reconnect to oneself. With consistent practice, attendees can regain inner strength, clarity of purpose, and even better health.
Professional Bio of Larry S. Stoler, Ph.D., MSSA, Clinical Psychologist and Medical Qigong Practitioner
Larry S. Stoler, Ph.D., MSSA is a Clinical Psychologist and Medical Qigong practitioner. He is a leader in the integration of Eastern and Western healing philosophies. He is a past president of the Association for Comprehensive Energy Psychology: an international non-profit. He has practiced Qigong for 20 years and is currently a Qigong student of Grand Master Nan Lu. Dr. Stoler teaches nationally and internationally. He is the program director of and regular presenter at Grand Master Lu’s annual Building Bridges for Traditional Chinese Medicine Conference. His integrative healing practice, Budding Spring Healing (located in Wilmette, IL), combines psychotherapy, Medical Qigong, and group Qigong wellness programs for the public.
Professional Bio of Larry S. Stoler, Ph.D., MSSA, Clinical Psychologist and Medical Qigong Practitioner
Larry S. Stoler, Ph.D., MSSA is a Clinical Psychologist and Medical Qigong practitioner. He is a leader in the integration of Eastern and Western healing philosophies. He is a past president of the Association for Comprehensive Energy Psychology: an international non-profit. He has practiced Qigong for 20 years and is currently a Qigong student of Grand Master Nan Lu. Dr. Stoler teaches nationally and internationally. He is the program director of and regular presenter at Grand Master Lu’s annual Building Bridges for Traditional Chinese Medicine Conference. His integrative healing practice, Budding Spring Healing (located in Wilmette, IL), combines psychotherapy, Medical Qigong, and group Qigong wellness programs for the public.
Session #4: Spirituality and Aging
The retirement years are full of potential for learning and personal growth. This session will focus on the continued nurturing and development of our spiritual lives by providing participants with resources and strategies to effectively live the later years with spirit, resilience, and wisdom.
Professional Bio of Rabbi Andrea London, Senior Rabbi at Beth Emet Synagogue
Rabbi Andrea London is a nationally recognized leader who has served at Beth Emet Synagogue since 2000 and as the congregation’s Senior Rabbi since July 2010. Rabbi London is deeply engaged in all aspects of congregational life, including worship, lifecycle events, counseling and support, adult education, youth education and programming, social action, and interfaith relations. She serves on the President’s Rabbinic Council of the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion (HUC-JIR). She has served on the board of Rabbis for Human Rights North America (T’ruah) and has been on the faculty since 2001 at the Rabbinic Advisory Committee of the Olin-Sang-Ruby Union Institute (OSRUI), the Reform Movement’s summer camp in Wisconsin. She is also the Secretary of the Chicago Board of Rabbis and Co-Chair of the J Street Rabbinic Cabinet. In 2014, she was named by The Forward newspaper as one of America’s most inspiring rabbis. Rabbi London holds a degree in applied mathematics from Brown University. She received her smicha (ordination) in 1996 from HUC-JIR in New York and served as assistant rabbi at Temple Israel in Minneapolis from 1996 to 2000. She is married to Danny London and has two children, Yonah and Liora.
Professional Bio of Rabbi Andrea London, Senior Rabbi at Beth Emet Synagogue
Rabbi Andrea London is a nationally recognized leader who has served at Beth Emet Synagogue since 2000 and as the congregation’s Senior Rabbi since July 2010. Rabbi London is deeply engaged in all aspects of congregational life, including worship, lifecycle events, counseling and support, adult education, youth education and programming, social action, and interfaith relations. She serves on the President’s Rabbinic Council of the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion (HUC-JIR). She has served on the board of Rabbis for Human Rights North America (T’ruah) and has been on the faculty since 2001 at the Rabbinic Advisory Committee of the Olin-Sang-Ruby Union Institute (OSRUI), the Reform Movement’s summer camp in Wisconsin. She is also the Secretary of the Chicago Board of Rabbis and Co-Chair of the J Street Rabbinic Cabinet. In 2014, she was named by The Forward newspaper as one of America’s most inspiring rabbis. Rabbi London holds a degree in applied mathematics from Brown University. She received her smicha (ordination) in 1996 from HUC-JIR in New York and served as assistant rabbi at Temple Israel in Minneapolis from 1996 to 2000. She is married to Danny London and has two children, Yonah and Liora.
Session #5: Coping with Loss…Embracing Change
Many of us find change incredibly difficult; especially those changes that include loss. Yet, change also provides the opportunity to build resilience, to find new strength, to learn new skills, and to add to our circle of support. This session will focus on strategies for coping with changes in our lives, both anticipated and unanticipated, and provide new perspectives that empower us to embrace change and to forge a new path to a rich and fulfilling life as we adapt to these changes.
Professional Bio of Nancy Flowers, LCSW, Community Education Program Manager and Dementia Project Manager for Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care
Nancy Flowers, LCSW is the Community Education Program Manager and Dementia Project Manager for Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care. In this role, Ms. Flowers provides community and clinical education for community members and professionals on topics related to advance care planning, end of life care, grief and loss, and advanced dementia care.
Ms. Flowers has been a social worker, educator, and manager for the past 35 years. She has worked primarily with older adults and persons with disabilities in a variety of health care and government settings. Prior to assuming her current role, Ms. Flowers was the Social Work Manager at Rainbow Hospice. Ms. Flowers also served for 12 years as the Regional Ombudsman and Community Health Division Manager for the City of Evanston. She received a Master’s degree in Social Work from Indiana University and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Ms. Flowers is a member of the Social Work Steering Committee of the National Council of Hospice and Palliative Professionals; a steering committee member of ICSUA (Illinois Coalition on Substance Use in Aging); a member of the ILHPCO (Illinois Hospice and Palliative Care Organization) POLST Committee, IDPH (Illinois Department of Public Health) Alzheimer’s Disease Advisory Committee and the IDPH Hospice and Palliative Care Advisory Board; and Chair of the Three Crowns Park Board.
Professional Bio of Nancy Flowers, LCSW, Community Education Program Manager and Dementia Project Manager for Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care
Nancy Flowers, LCSW is the Community Education Program Manager and Dementia Project Manager for Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care. In this role, Ms. Flowers provides community and clinical education for community members and professionals on topics related to advance care planning, end of life care, grief and loss, and advanced dementia care.
Ms. Flowers has been a social worker, educator, and manager for the past 35 years. She has worked primarily with older adults and persons with disabilities in a variety of health care and government settings. Prior to assuming her current role, Ms. Flowers was the Social Work Manager at Rainbow Hospice. Ms. Flowers also served for 12 years as the Regional Ombudsman and Community Health Division Manager for the City of Evanston. She received a Master’s degree in Social Work from Indiana University and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Ms. Flowers is a member of the Social Work Steering Committee of the National Council of Hospice and Palliative Professionals; a steering committee member of ICSUA (Illinois Coalition on Substance Use in Aging); a member of the ILHPCO (Illinois Hospice and Palliative Care Organization) POLST Committee, IDPH (Illinois Department of Public Health) Alzheimer’s Disease Advisory Committee and the IDPH Hospice and Palliative Care Advisory Board; and Chair of the Three Crowns Park Board.
Session #6: Going it Alone – Finding the Support You Need When You are on Your Own
Living alone as one gets older can pose some unique challenges. This is especially true for those of us who do not have involved family or close friends living nearby. Many older adults who live alone report feeling lonely and isolated, or they may struggle with having to manage a household and taking care of their health and daily needs without assistance. This session will provide an opportunity to meet and learn from others who may share similar challenges but who may also have identified helpful strategies and resources. The facilitator will share research on the impact of social isolation and highlight some of the ways to get assistance and develop a stronger network of support.
Professional Bio for Sharon Dornberg-Lee, LCSW, Clinical Supervisor at CJE SeniorLife
Sharon Dornberg-Lee, LCSW received her Masters of Arts in Social Work from the University of Chicago, School of Social Service Administration. She is a Clinical Supervisor at CJE SeniorLife where she has worked for the last 20 years providing psychotherapy for older adults and supervising Care Managers in a variety of programs. Prior to her work at CJE, Ms. Dornberg-Lee was a community organizer, program manager, and consultant for a variety of nonprofit educational and advocacy organizations. Ms. Dornberg-Lee is a frequent presenter on topics related to effective clinical practice with older adults and has been an adjunct instructor at SSA where she taught Aging and Mental Health. She continues to teach in SSA's Professional Development Program, Social Work with Older Adults.
Professional Bio for Sharon Dornberg-Lee, LCSW, Clinical Supervisor at CJE SeniorLife
Sharon Dornberg-Lee, LCSW received her Masters of Arts in Social Work from the University of Chicago, School of Social Service Administration. She is a Clinical Supervisor at CJE SeniorLife where she has worked for the last 20 years providing psychotherapy for older adults and supervising Care Managers in a variety of programs. Prior to her work at CJE, Ms. Dornberg-Lee was a community organizer, program manager, and consultant for a variety of nonprofit educational and advocacy organizations. Ms. Dornberg-Lee is a frequent presenter on topics related to effective clinical practice with older adults and has been an adjunct instructor at SSA where she taught Aging and Mental Health. She continues to teach in SSA's Professional Development Program, Social Work with Older Adults.
Session #7: Differentiating Depression, Dementia, and Delirium
Older adults can experience both depression and cognitive disorders. Cognitive disorders can be chronic (e.g., dementia) or acute (e.g., delirium). Some older adults experience both depression and cognitive disorders. Determining an accurate diagnosis is the first step to obtaining effective treatment. Sometimes getting an accurate diagnosis is complicated because certain medical conditions can also contribute to cognitive and affective changes. This session will help to clarify the common symptoms of these conditions and provide guidance in navigating the systems of care to obtain effective treatment.
Professional Bio of Jeannine Forrest, Ph.D., R.N., President and CEO of Through the Forrest, LLC
Jeannine Forrest, Ph.D., R.N., President and CEO of Through the Forrest, LLC offers expert guidance and education to individuals and organizations committed to sensitive and competent care for persons with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. She has focused her clinical practice, education, and research in the care of older adults in the areas of dementia, palliative, and end-of-life care. She has served as faculty member at the University of Illinois at Chicago and Rush University and has held Board positions for the Illinois Hospice and Palliative Care Organization and Chicago End-of-Life Care Coalition. Dr. Forrest has provided palliative consultation for the World Health Organization in China. She has authored journal articles and book chapters on pain and geriatric related issues and has collaborated with the Alzheimer’s Association studying outcomes of comfort focused care for residents with advanced dementia in nursing homes. Dr. Forrest holds a Fellowship in the Institute of Medicine of Chicago. She has mentored hospice and nursing home programs in the Chicago Metropolitan area in their quest to provide excellence in dementia-related care. Dr. Forrest is a stakeholder on the Alzheimer’s Disease Advisory Committee for Illinois and a member of Advisory Board for the Dementia Society of America.
Professional Bio of Jeannine Forrest, Ph.D., R.N., President and CEO of Through the Forrest, LLC
Jeannine Forrest, Ph.D., R.N., President and CEO of Through the Forrest, LLC offers expert guidance and education to individuals and organizations committed to sensitive and competent care for persons with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. She has focused her clinical practice, education, and research in the care of older adults in the areas of dementia, palliative, and end-of-life care. She has served as faculty member at the University of Illinois at Chicago and Rush University and has held Board positions for the Illinois Hospice and Palliative Care Organization and Chicago End-of-Life Care Coalition. Dr. Forrest has provided palliative consultation for the World Health Organization in China. She has authored journal articles and book chapters on pain and geriatric related issues and has collaborated with the Alzheimer’s Association studying outcomes of comfort focused care for residents with advanced dementia in nursing homes. Dr. Forrest holds a Fellowship in the Institute of Medicine of Chicago. She has mentored hospice and nursing home programs in the Chicago Metropolitan area in their quest to provide excellence in dementia-related care. Dr. Forrest is a stakeholder on the Alzheimer’s Disease Advisory Committee for Illinois and a member of Advisory Board for the Dementia Society of America.
Session #8: Mindfulness and Chair Yoga for Older Adults and Caregivers
As the older adult population in the U.S. continues to grow, more family members are coming into caregiver roles. Signs of caregiver stress, according to the Alzheimer’s Association, include anxiety, depression, exhaustion, sleeplessness, and irritability. Also, stress and traumatic memories are often stored in the body. Learning to listen and tune into your body can help you cope with everyday life, chronic stress, and even trauma. In this workshop, the presenter will explore how mindfulness practices and chair yoga can help both older adults and their caregivers reduce stress and promote wellness.
Professional Bio of Alissa Catiis, MA, LCSW, RYT, Psychotherapist and Yoga Teacher at Womencare Counseling Center and The Erie Teen Health Center
Alissa Catiis, MA, LCSW, RYT is a psychotherapist and yoga teacher at Womencare Counseling Center in Evanston and at the Erie Teen Health Center in Chicago. She enjoys integrating art, literature, movement, and writing into her clinical work as a means of building relationships and exploring how life transitions and challenges lead us all towards rich, complex life journeys. Her clinical interests include working with people from diverse communities and marginalized populations, and she understands that identifying as a trauma survivor can lead to additional marginalization in society. Ms. Catiis also has experience as a school social worker, medical social worker, and geriatric case manager.
Professional Bio of Alissa Catiis, MA, LCSW, RYT, Psychotherapist and Yoga Teacher at Womencare Counseling Center and The Erie Teen Health Center
Alissa Catiis, MA, LCSW, RYT is a psychotherapist and yoga teacher at Womencare Counseling Center in Evanston and at the Erie Teen Health Center in Chicago. She enjoys integrating art, literature, movement, and writing into her clinical work as a means of building relationships and exploring how life transitions and challenges lead us all towards rich, complex life journeys. Her clinical interests include working with people from diverse communities and marginalized populations, and she understands that identifying as a trauma survivor can lead to additional marginalization in society. Ms. Catiis also has experience as a school social worker, medical social worker, and geriatric case manager.
Session #9: Grief and Loss in Older Adults
Older adults often experience multiple losses within a short period of time. Coping with these losses can be challenging, yet many older adults demonstrate incredible resilience. This session will focus on the interplay of love and loss. Participants will be encouraged to explore and tap into their inner resources to heal as they grieve by embracing the relationship and utilizing what they learned from their loved one to navigate the grieving process and to commit to living their best life as a tribute to those individuals they have lost.
Professional Bio of David Fireman, MSW, LCSW, Director at the Center for Grief Recovery and Therapeutic Services
David Fireman, MSW, LCSW is the Director at the Center for Grief Recovery and Therapeutic Services. In addition to directing the Center, Mr. Fireman holds a practice grounded in self and depth psychologies. His extensive background helping others grows out of a sincere respect for inherent individual differences, social learning, the interplay of love and loss throughout the life span, finding purpose and meaning, and placing value in the power of the therapeutic relationship. He is an active and involved therapist who believes that the rare combination of honesty and courage bring about lasting change. He is a proponent of pragmatic empathy, which entails working in partnership with the therapist to understand and explain core organizing beliefs about self and others, and practicing realistic ways to both manage and transform non-productive habit patterns into compassionate and useful actions. In tandem with his client work, he also provides professional consultation services to therapists in private or agency settings. Finally, to round out his traditional training in social work and psychotherapy, Mr. Fireman draws from his experience as a practitioner of Iyengar Yoga, Tibetan forms of meditation, and Jewish spirituality.
Mr. Fireman is an active and sought-after workshop presenter and blogger. His work has been published in various sources. He is a graduate of Matrix Leadership Institute, Victories of the Heart, and The Center's Guided Imagery Training. He was social work lecturer at The University of Chicago and Jane Adams College of Social Work, University of Illinois at Chicago. As past president of the Transpersonal Psychology Network Chicago, Mr. Fireman is committed to values and practices that nurture creativity, compassion, and pragmatic action.
Professional Bio of David Fireman, MSW, LCSW, Director at the Center for Grief Recovery and Therapeutic Services
David Fireman, MSW, LCSW is the Director at the Center for Grief Recovery and Therapeutic Services. In addition to directing the Center, Mr. Fireman holds a practice grounded in self and depth psychologies. His extensive background helping others grows out of a sincere respect for inherent individual differences, social learning, the interplay of love and loss throughout the life span, finding purpose and meaning, and placing value in the power of the therapeutic relationship. He is an active and involved therapist who believes that the rare combination of honesty and courage bring about lasting change. He is a proponent of pragmatic empathy, which entails working in partnership with the therapist to understand and explain core organizing beliefs about self and others, and practicing realistic ways to both manage and transform non-productive habit patterns into compassionate and useful actions. In tandem with his client work, he also provides professional consultation services to therapists in private or agency settings. Finally, to round out his traditional training in social work and psychotherapy, Mr. Fireman draws from his experience as a practitioner of Iyengar Yoga, Tibetan forms of meditation, and Jewish spirituality.
Mr. Fireman is an active and sought-after workshop presenter and blogger. His work has been published in various sources. He is a graduate of Matrix Leadership Institute, Victories of the Heart, and The Center's Guided Imagery Training. He was social work lecturer at The University of Chicago and Jane Adams College of Social Work, University of Illinois at Chicago. As past president of the Transpersonal Psychology Network Chicago, Mr. Fireman is committed to values and practices that nurture creativity, compassion, and pragmatic action.
Session #10: Aging in the LGBTQ Community
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals can face some unique challenges as they age. This session will provide strategies and resources to help members of the LGBT community successfully navigate the aging process.
Professional Bio of Jeff Zacharias, LCSW, CSAT, CAADC, Clinical Director of New Hope Recovery Center
Jeff Zacharias is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Counselor (CAADC) with extensive clinical experience in both the mental health and addictions fields. Currently, he is the Clinical Director of New Hope Recovery Center in Chicago. He also maintains a private practice there. His areas of expertise are working within the LGBTQ community; all forms of addiction, including with an individual client as well as their partners; severe and persistent mental health issues; and trauma with its impact on recovery. Mr. Zacharias is a member of National Association of Social Work (NASW); the Association of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Addiction Professionals and Their Allies (NALGAP); and NAADAC, the Association for Addiction Professionals. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for NALGAP. He has extensive experience speaking on issues related to addiction and the LGBTQI community most notably at the National Conference on Addiction Disorders (NCAD), NAADAC, NASW Illinois, NASW National Conference, and the NAMI National Conference. Additionally, Mr. Zacharias was voted the 2015 NASW-IL Social Worker of the Year.
Professional Bio of Jeff Zacharias, LCSW, CSAT, CAADC, Clinical Director of New Hope Recovery Center
Jeff Zacharias is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Counselor (CAADC) with extensive clinical experience in both the mental health and addictions fields. Currently, he is the Clinical Director of New Hope Recovery Center in Chicago. He also maintains a private practice there. His areas of expertise are working within the LGBTQ community; all forms of addiction, including with an individual client as well as their partners; severe and persistent mental health issues; and trauma with its impact on recovery. Mr. Zacharias is a member of National Association of Social Work (NASW); the Association of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Addiction Professionals and Their Allies (NALGAP); and NAADAC, the Association for Addiction Professionals. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for NALGAP. He has extensive experience speaking on issues related to addiction and the LGBTQI community most notably at the National Conference on Addiction Disorders (NCAD), NAADAC, NASW Illinois, NASW National Conference, and the NAMI National Conference. Additionally, Mr. Zacharias was voted the 2015 NASW-IL Social Worker of the Year.
Session #11: Ensuring the Well-Being of Aging Veterans
It is essential that we support the well-being of our veterans throughout the course of their lives. Nearly one in three veterans will experience a mental health challenge that can interfere with their capacity to fully realize his or her own potential, to cope with the stresses of life, and/or to participate fully in her or his community. Our veterans deserve to be embraced by their community and to have access to healthcare, including mental health services. This session will provide strategies and resources for veterans and those who care about them to ensure the highest quality of life possible throughout the aging process.
Professional Bio of Betsy E. Tolstedt, Ph.D., Director of Evanston Vet Center
Betsy E. Tolstedt, Ph.D. has been Director of the Evanston Vet Center since August 1985. Dr. Tolstedt is a Clinical Psychologist licensed in the state of Illinois. She completed her doctoral work at the University of Illinois at Chicago, Circle Campus. Prior to taking her current job with the Evanston Vet Center, Dr. Tolstedt worked at Hines VA Hospital and the DuPage County Health Department. As Director of the Evanston Vet Center, Dr. Tolstedt is responsible for management of the center and clinical supervision of staff, and she also carries a clinical case load. In 2002, the Evanston Vet Center was selected as a Vet Center of Excellence.
Professional Bio of Betsy E. Tolstedt, Ph.D., Director of Evanston Vet Center
Betsy E. Tolstedt, Ph.D. has been Director of the Evanston Vet Center since August 1985. Dr. Tolstedt is a Clinical Psychologist licensed in the state of Illinois. She completed her doctoral work at the University of Illinois at Chicago, Circle Campus. Prior to taking her current job with the Evanston Vet Center, Dr. Tolstedt worked at Hines VA Hospital and the DuPage County Health Department. As Director of the Evanston Vet Center, Dr. Tolstedt is responsible for management of the center and clinical supervision of staff, and she also carries a clinical case load. In 2002, the Evanston Vet Center was selected as a Vet Center of Excellence.
Session #12: Planning for Adult Children with Mental Illness and Other Special Needs
Parents who are caring for adult children living with mental illness or other special needs face unique challenges as they and their adult children age. This session will identify several key life domains that can be helpful to address in planning for the health and stability of each member of the family.
Professional Bio of Rosann Corcoran, LCSW, Clinical Supervisor in the Community Counseling Program at CJE SeniorLife and Coordinator of CJE SeniorLife’s Linkages Program
Rosann Corcoran, LCSW is a Clinical Supervisor in the Community Counseling Program at CJE SeniorLife and is Coordinator of CJE SeniorLife’s Linkages Program, which provides information and referrals to seniors who have adult children with disabilities. In this capacity, she is continually challenged with helping families and other professionals navigate both aging and disability service delivery systems. Prior to coming to CJE, Ms. Corocran worked at Thresholds Older Adult Program where she was a Clinical Supervisor and Team Leader of the Thresholds Older Adult Partial Hospitalization and Sustaining Care Programs. She has also worked at Neumann Association and Anixter Center providing direct services to people with disabilities of all ages. Ms. Corcoran has taught Social Work and Aging courses in MSW programs at University of Illinois at Chicago, Jane Addams College of Social Work and at Loyola University Chicago, School of Social Work. She is also an active and founding member of the Illinois Coalition on Substance Use and Aging (ICSUA).
Professional Bio of Rosann Corcoran, LCSW, Clinical Supervisor in the Community Counseling Program at CJE SeniorLife and Coordinator of CJE SeniorLife’s Linkages Program
Rosann Corcoran, LCSW is a Clinical Supervisor in the Community Counseling Program at CJE SeniorLife and is Coordinator of CJE SeniorLife’s Linkages Program, which provides information and referrals to seniors who have adult children with disabilities. In this capacity, she is continually challenged with helping families and other professionals navigate both aging and disability service delivery systems. Prior to coming to CJE, Ms. Corocran worked at Thresholds Older Adult Program where she was a Clinical Supervisor and Team Leader of the Thresholds Older Adult Partial Hospitalization and Sustaining Care Programs. She has also worked at Neumann Association and Anixter Center providing direct services to people with disabilities of all ages. Ms. Corcoran has taught Social Work and Aging courses in MSW programs at University of Illinois at Chicago, Jane Addams College of Social Work and at Loyola University Chicago, School of Social Work. She is also an active and founding member of the Illinois Coalition on Substance Use and Aging (ICSUA).
Session #13: Medications and Substance Use
Substance use is an emerging public health issue among older adults. Managing prescription medications and potential drug interactions can be complicated, especially for older adults who receive care from a number of different specialists in addition to their primary care physician. Additionally, changes in how our bodies metabolize alcohol as we age may make previous patterns of alcohol consumption riskier. This session will discuss factors that individuals may want to consider as they make decisions about the use of over-the-counter medications, prescription medications, alcohol, and other drugs.
Professional Bio of Christine McCall, LCSW, CADC, Coordinator of HEALING CONNECTIONS Intensive Outpatient Program and Aftercare Program at PEER Services
Christine McCall, CADC holds a Master’s of Social Work degree from Loyola University Chicago School of Social Work and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She developed and coordinates the HEALING CONNECTIONS Intensive Outpatient Program and Aftercare Program at PEER Services. She is the Chair of the Coalition on Substance Use and Aging as well as an active member of multiple community professional groups. She also leads presentations and training on substance use and aging, including most recently at the University of Chicago. Prior to her work with PEER Services, Ms. McCall provided clinical case management and therapy to individuals with dual diagnosis in a supportive housing program in addition to linking them with stable housing opportunities in Chicago.
Professional Bio of Claire Tobin, LCSW, CADC, Staff Therapist at PEER Services
Claire Tobin, LSW, CADC is a staff therapist at PEER Services providing individual and intensive outpatient group counseling for clients with substance use disorders. She has been working in the addiction field since 2015. Prior to working in the addictions field, she spent a decade serving elementary school students in New York City working as a teacher, instructional coach, and intervention coordinator for children with special needs. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology at Kalamazoo College, a Master’s degree in Childhood Education at Lehman College, and a Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work at the University of Chicago’s School of Social Service Administration. Since 2016, Ms. Tobin has been serving as Co-Chair for the Illinois Coalition on Substance Use and Aging.
Professional Bio of Christine McCall, LCSW, CADC, Coordinator of HEALING CONNECTIONS Intensive Outpatient Program and Aftercare Program at PEER Services
Christine McCall, CADC holds a Master’s of Social Work degree from Loyola University Chicago School of Social Work and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She developed and coordinates the HEALING CONNECTIONS Intensive Outpatient Program and Aftercare Program at PEER Services. She is the Chair of the Coalition on Substance Use and Aging as well as an active member of multiple community professional groups. She also leads presentations and training on substance use and aging, including most recently at the University of Chicago. Prior to her work with PEER Services, Ms. McCall provided clinical case management and therapy to individuals with dual diagnosis in a supportive housing program in addition to linking them with stable housing opportunities in Chicago.
Professional Bio of Claire Tobin, LCSW, CADC, Staff Therapist at PEER Services
Claire Tobin, LSW, CADC is a staff therapist at PEER Services providing individual and intensive outpatient group counseling for clients with substance use disorders. She has been working in the addiction field since 2015. Prior to working in the addictions field, she spent a decade serving elementary school students in New York City working as a teacher, instructional coach, and intervention coordinator for children with special needs. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology at Kalamazoo College, a Master’s degree in Childhood Education at Lehman College, and a Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work at the University of Chicago’s School of Social Service Administration. Since 2016, Ms. Tobin has been serving as Co-Chair for the Illinois Coalition on Substance Use and Aging.
Session #14: How Much Stuff is Too Much Stuff –
What to Do When Overwhelmed by our Possessions
It is natural to want to have our things accessible, yet sometimes, we can become overwhelmed by our possessions. Most of us would agree that people are more important than material goods, yet for some, possessions lead to becoming isolated from other people. This challenge is more common than most might guess. This session will provide strategies and resources to help those we care about be able to age in a place that is a safe environment and that allows them to feel comfortable hosting visitors and accessing support from friends, neighbors, family members, and other caregivers.
Professional Bio of Audrey Thompson, MSW, Adjunct Professor, Social Work Department at Northeastern Illinois University
Audrey Thompson, MSW began her work in the field of aging in 2010, when she relocated to the City of Evanston. Four days after moving to Illinois, Audrey was designated by the State of Illinois as the Regional Ombudsman for the City of Evanston. As Regional Ombudsman, she is responsible for investigating complaints in the 14 long-term care communities in Evanston, community education, training facility staff as well as recruiting, training and retaining all Volunteer Ombudsmen. Audrey is always looking for ways to increase programs and services for older adults in an effort to make Evanston the most age friendly town in the country. Audrey is a licensed social worker, received her B.A in English from Tougaloo College and has a Masters in Social Work from Jackson State University. She is currently an adjunct professor for the Social Work Department at Northeastern Illinois University where she teaches Human Behavior and the Social Environment, Practice, Social Work Advocacy and Advanced Field Practicum. Audrey is also the staff person for the Evanston Commission on Aging, a member of the Board of Directors for Evanston Rebuilding Warehouse and sits on the Advisory Boards for SASI, North Shore Senior Center, and North Shore Village.
Professional Bio of Barbara Sarasin, CNA, MSW, CJE SeniorLife
Barbara Sarasin, CNA, MSW has been working in the field of aging since 1984. Her formative experience as a Certified Nurse’s Aide helps her understand both the frailty and the challenges of hands-on physical care. She received her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. She has worked in private homes, skilled nursing facilities, adult day programs, and an inpatient psychiatric unit. Ms. Sarasin has been at CJE SeniorLife since 1992. She was involved in the development of the bill-paying program and has helped clients with their paperwork for more than 25 years. She runs the monthly caregiver support group at CJE’s Evanston Adult Day location and is a care manager for both the grant funded care management service, Project Connect, and the fee for service care management, Your Eldercare Consultants. She helps clients de-clutter their homes and has developed a model group approach to clutter management entitled “Conquer Your Clutter.” Ms. Sarasin is a member of two professional hoarding task forces and has been presenting on the topic of hoarding to both professional and community groups for more than 10 years. Ms. Sarasin’s warm, practical “no-nonsense” approach is extremely helpful to many clients. She has detailed knowledge of the senior housing resources throughout the city and suburbs. Clients know they can depend on her to sort through their personal matters in a non-judgmental, compassionate manner.
Professional Bio of Audrey Thompson, MSW, Adjunct Professor, Social Work Department at Northeastern Illinois University
Audrey Thompson, MSW began her work in the field of aging in 2010, when she relocated to the City of Evanston. Four days after moving to Illinois, Audrey was designated by the State of Illinois as the Regional Ombudsman for the City of Evanston. As Regional Ombudsman, she is responsible for investigating complaints in the 14 long-term care communities in Evanston, community education, training facility staff as well as recruiting, training and retaining all Volunteer Ombudsmen. Audrey is always looking for ways to increase programs and services for older adults in an effort to make Evanston the most age friendly town in the country. Audrey is a licensed social worker, received her B.A in English from Tougaloo College and has a Masters in Social Work from Jackson State University. She is currently an adjunct professor for the Social Work Department at Northeastern Illinois University where she teaches Human Behavior and the Social Environment, Practice, Social Work Advocacy and Advanced Field Practicum. Audrey is also the staff person for the Evanston Commission on Aging, a member of the Board of Directors for Evanston Rebuilding Warehouse and sits on the Advisory Boards for SASI, North Shore Senior Center, and North Shore Village.
Professional Bio of Barbara Sarasin, CNA, MSW, CJE SeniorLife
Barbara Sarasin, CNA, MSW has been working in the field of aging since 1984. Her formative experience as a Certified Nurse’s Aide helps her understand both the frailty and the challenges of hands-on physical care. She received her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. She has worked in private homes, skilled nursing facilities, adult day programs, and an inpatient psychiatric unit. Ms. Sarasin has been at CJE SeniorLife since 1992. She was involved in the development of the bill-paying program and has helped clients with their paperwork for more than 25 years. She runs the monthly caregiver support group at CJE’s Evanston Adult Day location and is a care manager for both the grant funded care management service, Project Connect, and the fee for service care management, Your Eldercare Consultants. She helps clients de-clutter their homes and has developed a model group approach to clutter management entitled “Conquer Your Clutter.” Ms. Sarasin is a member of two professional hoarding task forces and has been presenting on the topic of hoarding to both professional and community groups for more than 10 years. Ms. Sarasin’s warm, practical “no-nonsense” approach is extremely helpful to many clients. She has detailed knowledge of the senior housing resources throughout the city and suburbs. Clients know they can depend on her to sort through their personal matters in a non-judgmental, compassionate manner.
Session #15: Developmental Issues in Aging
Developmental Psychologist Erik Erikson developed an eight stage model of psychosocial development, which identifies the key tasks of late adulthood. These tasks include reflecting on life with pride and satisfaction, enjoying serving as a positive example for others, self-approval, and accepting the aging process gracefully while still actively thinking about the future. Some older adults struggle with these tasks. This session will focus on strategies to help approach this developmental stage with integrity.
Professional Bio of Emily Mysel, LCSW, Senior Program Case Manager at Family Service of Glencoe
Emily Mysel, LCSW is the Senior Program Case Manager at Family Service of Glencoe. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Miami University of Ohio, and she holds a Master of Social Work degree from University of Illinois at Chicago-Jane Addams College of Social Work with a concentration in community health and urban development. Ms. Mysel has been working with older adults and their families for the past 13 years. Her clinical expertise includes educating clients and their families on the complexities of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementia and providing support and referrals throughout their aging journey. She has vast experience in bereavement and end of life support, community outreach, and facilitating support groups. Ms. Mysel's passion for her work, combined with a commitment to providing older adults and their families the respect, compassion, and dignity they so deserve, is founded in her enduring love for her grandparents.
Professional Bio of Emily Mysel, LCSW, Senior Program Case Manager at Family Service of Glencoe
Emily Mysel, LCSW is the Senior Program Case Manager at Family Service of Glencoe. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Miami University of Ohio, and she holds a Master of Social Work degree from University of Illinois at Chicago-Jane Addams College of Social Work with a concentration in community health and urban development. Ms. Mysel has been working with older adults and their families for the past 13 years. Her clinical expertise includes educating clients and their families on the complexities of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementia and providing support and referrals throughout their aging journey. She has vast experience in bereavement and end of life support, community outreach, and facilitating support groups. Ms. Mysel's passion for her work, combined with a commitment to providing older adults and their families the respect, compassion, and dignity they so deserve, is founded in her enduring love for her grandparents.
Session #16: Integrative Medical and Mind-Body Solutions to Managing Chronic Pain
Chronic pain can severely impact your engagement in and enjoyment of life. Many older adults have received the message from their healthcare practitioners, and even their loved ones, that they simply have to learn to live with their chronic pain. Dr. Archana Lal-Tabak and her healing partner, Jim Lal-Tabak, disagree. They will teach participants holistic strategies that can significantly impact their life and change their experience of pain. Their philosophy is that rather than trying to mask pain, there are ways to listen and learn from one’s discomfort in order to make long-lasting changes to the level of health we experience. Their expertise utilizes both eastern and western medicine. This expertise, combined with personal experience with pain, makes their approach unique. After being misdiagnosed by numerous doctors and experiencing side effects from a multitude of different medications, Dr. Archana Lal-Tabak took back her health and completely healed naturally. Today she now helps others return to health using modern and ancient techniques. This session will help to empower individuals to tap into their innate knowledge of their bodies so they can maximize their own healing capabilities.
Professional Bio of Archana Lal-Tabak, M.D., Integrative and Complementary Mind-Body Physician
Archana Lal-Tabak, M.D. is an Integrative and Complementary Mind-Body Physician who practices Ayurveda, Vaastu, Homeopathy, and Body-Centered Transpersonal Psychiatry. She completed the Honors Program in Medical Education at Northwestern University in Chicago, Illinois and completed post-graduate training at U.C.L.A., Northwestern University, Oregon Health Sciences University, R.U.S.H., University of Chicago, The National Institute of the Clinical Advancement of Behavioral Medicine, Maharishi Ayurved, Ayushakti Health Services, and The National Center of Homeopathy. She assists her clients to achieve wholeness and health through Wellness Programs, Personal Education, Guided Imagery, Color Therapies, Body-Centered Psychotherapy, Internal and External Family Systems Work, and prudent use of conventional and natural, integrative approaches to healing. She is often an invited speaker and guest for educational and media programs.
Professional Bio of Jim Lal-Tabak, BA, Certified Practitioner of Yuen Method
Jim Lal-Tabak has a BA degree in Asian Studies from the University of Illinois. He has 35 years of promoting health and healing and is a Certified Practitioner of Yuen Method. He combines training in Yoga, Asian Studies, Tai Chi, Meditation, Diet, Fine Art, Ayurveda, Healing Spectrums, and Chinese Energetic Method in his healing practice. His mission is to facilitate the healing process on all levels including physical, mental, emotional, psychological, psychic, and spiritual. He sees clients privately, teaches classes, facilitates workshops, and offers lectures and demonstrations in Yuen Method, Healing Spectrums, Ayurveda, and Yoga.
Professional Bio of Archana Lal-Tabak, M.D., Integrative and Complementary Mind-Body Physician
Archana Lal-Tabak, M.D. is an Integrative and Complementary Mind-Body Physician who practices Ayurveda, Vaastu, Homeopathy, and Body-Centered Transpersonal Psychiatry. She completed the Honors Program in Medical Education at Northwestern University in Chicago, Illinois and completed post-graduate training at U.C.L.A., Northwestern University, Oregon Health Sciences University, R.U.S.H., University of Chicago, The National Institute of the Clinical Advancement of Behavioral Medicine, Maharishi Ayurved, Ayushakti Health Services, and The National Center of Homeopathy. She assists her clients to achieve wholeness and health through Wellness Programs, Personal Education, Guided Imagery, Color Therapies, Body-Centered Psychotherapy, Internal and External Family Systems Work, and prudent use of conventional and natural, integrative approaches to healing. She is often an invited speaker and guest for educational and media programs.
Professional Bio of Jim Lal-Tabak, BA, Certified Practitioner of Yuen Method
Jim Lal-Tabak has a BA degree in Asian Studies from the University of Illinois. He has 35 years of promoting health and healing and is a Certified Practitioner of Yuen Method. He combines training in Yoga, Asian Studies, Tai Chi, Meditation, Diet, Fine Art, Ayurveda, Healing Spectrums, and Chinese Energetic Method in his healing practice. His mission is to facilitate the healing process on all levels including physical, mental, emotional, psychological, psychic, and spiritual. He sees clients privately, teaches classes, facilitates workshops, and offers lectures and demonstrations in Yuen Method, Healing Spectrums, Ayurveda, and Yoga.
Session #17: Multicultural Perspectives on Aging
Aging isn’t just a biological process — it’s also very much a cultural one. Different cultures have different attitudes and practices around aging. These cultural perspectives can have a huge effect on our experience of getting older. While many cultures celebrate the aging process and venerate their elders, in Western cultures, aging is often stigmatized. Aging is often depicted in a negative light in popular culture, if it is even depicted at all. Many older adults have internalized this societal stigma. These older adults often report feeling invisible to others or that they simply don’t matter anymore. Some older adults avoid relationships with family members and friends out of fear of “becoming a burden.” This can lead to social isolation which often contributes to poorer health outcomes. Psychologist Erik Erickson argued that the Western fear of aging keeps us from living full lives. This session will look at aging through the lenses of three different cultures focusing on the ways different cultures support and/or interfere with positive aging.
Professional Bio of Rose Mabwa, Ph.D., Senior Community Life Manager at The Community Builders
Rose Mabwa, Ph.D. is the Senior Community Life Manager at The Community Builders, which is a leading nonprofit real estate developer that improves housing for families and seniors and invests in local businesses and public amenities to strengthen neighborhoods. Dr. Mabwa obtained a PhD in Business Administration and Management at Argosy University Chicago. Dr. Mabwa believes that if people are provided with the opportunity and the resources to take charge of their lives and community, they will.
Professional Bio of Eric Homer, LSW, In-Home Counseling for Seniors
Eric Homer, LSW is an educator, administrator, and counselor who works with people coping with life challenging conditions. The people he serves are coping with difficult health concerns, aging, poverty, inadequate housing, and disconnection from potential resources. Mr. Homer is a licensed social worker and certified elementary/secondary education teacher and has worked with vulnerable communities for 30 plus years. As part of a management team, over a 10 year period, he helped create sustainable, safe supportive housing for HIV+ African American and Hispanic women, heterosexual men, as well as gay men and transgender persons in Chicago’s North Lawndale neighborhood. He entered the affordable housing field after working as a medical social worker and social service administrator for 16 years at three HIV/AIDS agencies. During the 1980’s, Mr. Homer was one of the first counselor/case management coordinators at Chicago’s Howard Brown Health Center. Before Mr. Homer was a social worker, he was a teacher, and before that, an artist.
Professional Bio of Rose Mabwa, Ph.D., Senior Community Life Manager at The Community Builders
Rose Mabwa, Ph.D. is the Senior Community Life Manager at The Community Builders, which is a leading nonprofit real estate developer that improves housing for families and seniors and invests in local businesses and public amenities to strengthen neighborhoods. Dr. Mabwa obtained a PhD in Business Administration and Management at Argosy University Chicago. Dr. Mabwa believes that if people are provided with the opportunity and the resources to take charge of their lives and community, they will.
Professional Bio of Eric Homer, LSW, In-Home Counseling for Seniors
Eric Homer, LSW is an educator, administrator, and counselor who works with people coping with life challenging conditions. The people he serves are coping with difficult health concerns, aging, poverty, inadequate housing, and disconnection from potential resources. Mr. Homer is a licensed social worker and certified elementary/secondary education teacher and has worked with vulnerable communities for 30 plus years. As part of a management team, over a 10 year period, he helped create sustainable, safe supportive housing for HIV+ African American and Hispanic women, heterosexual men, as well as gay men and transgender persons in Chicago’s North Lawndale neighborhood. He entered the affordable housing field after working as a medical social worker and social service administrator for 16 years at three HIV/AIDS agencies. During the 1980’s, Mr. Homer was one of the first counselor/case management coordinators at Chicago’s Howard Brown Health Center. Before Mr. Homer was a social worker, he was a teacher, and before that, an artist.
Session #18: Becoming a Super Ager
The National Institute on Aging, in partnership with expert researchers across the county, has been studying Super Agers. Super Agers are defined as individuals in their eighties who on MRIs and other tests demonstrate the brain functioning of individuals in their twenties or thirties. Research indicates that there are several lifestyle factors which increase the likelihood that an individual will become a Super Ager. These factors include maintaining social connectedness by visiting with family and friends, volunteering and participating in cultural and community events, practicing good sleep hygiene, eating well, exercising, and continuing to stimulate your brain through lifelong learning. Dr. Rediger will share holistic strategies that can help each of us develop healthier behaviors that will contribute to an increased quality of life as we progress through the aging process.
Professional Bio of Jeffrey Rediger, M.D., M.Div., Faculty at Harvard Medical School and McLean Hospital
Jeffrey Rediger, M.D., M.Div. is a board-certified psychiatrist who is on faculty at McLean Hospital and Harvard Medical School. He also has a Master’s degree in Divinity. He focuses on the ability of the mind to promote health or illness in the body and in principles that appear to be associated with remarkable recoveries and their implications for the chronic lifestyle illnesses which afflict such a high percentage of western populations. As a medical director, he has focused on positive psychiatry and creating a person-centered model of treatment that is built on what is right in people. He strives to not overly-medicalize human problems of living and seeks to see each person in a positive sense as someone who is striving to grow, and perhaps, has become blocked in what a deeper aspect within is attempting to learn. Dr. Rediger was quoted in a 2014 New York Times Magazine article, What if Age is Nothing but a Mind -Set? In talking about how some people become Super Agers, Dr. Rediger reported, “health and illness are much more rooted in our minds and in our hearts and how we experience ourselves in the world than our models even begin to understand.” Dr. Rediger practices the medicine of hope and possibility!
Professional Bio of Jeffrey Rediger, M.D., M.Div., Faculty at Harvard Medical School and McLean Hospital
Jeffrey Rediger, M.D., M.Div. is a board-certified psychiatrist who is on faculty at McLean Hospital and Harvard Medical School. He also has a Master’s degree in Divinity. He focuses on the ability of the mind to promote health or illness in the body and in principles that appear to be associated with remarkable recoveries and their implications for the chronic lifestyle illnesses which afflict such a high percentage of western populations. As a medical director, he has focused on positive psychiatry and creating a person-centered model of treatment that is built on what is right in people. He strives to not overly-medicalize human problems of living and seeks to see each person in a positive sense as someone who is striving to grow, and perhaps, has become blocked in what a deeper aspect within is attempting to learn. Dr. Rediger was quoted in a 2014 New York Times Magazine article, What if Age is Nothing but a Mind -Set? In talking about how some people become Super Agers, Dr. Rediger reported, “health and illness are much more rooted in our minds and in our hearts and how we experience ourselves in the world than our models even begin to understand.” Dr. Rediger practices the medicine of hope and possibility!
Session #19: The Impact of Aging on Family Dynamics
Dynamics between aging couples can change is response to retirement, downsizing a home, or a change in health. For adult children involved in helping to provide emotional support for their parents as they navigate change can be both daunting and rewarding. This session will help family members across generations better prepare for some of the more common changes and challenges that families experience and will provide strategies that help family members focus on the joys of staying connected and enhance their resilience.
Professional Bio of Trish Abbey, LCSW, Private Practice Therapist with In-Home Counseling for Seniors
Trish Abbey, LCSW is a Clinical Social Worker with a focus on working with older adults. After earning her MSW from Loyola University Chicago, Ms. Abbey has developed her skills in case management, program development, elder abuse, memory care, and supervision. Ms. Abbey has previously worked as a case manager at Leyden Senior Services and North Shore Senior Services and at Palatine Township Senior Center as Director of Social Services. She is currently a private practice therapist with In Home Counseling for Seniors. Ms. Abbey has provided many continuing eduation presentations to a variety of audiences on a wide variety of topics. She is also the Executive Director of the Kott Gerontology Institute: a non-profit organization that provides scholarships to graduate level students in a variety of fields focused on aging.
Professional Bio of Trish Abbey, LCSW, Private Practice Therapist with In-Home Counseling for Seniors
Trish Abbey, LCSW is a Clinical Social Worker with a focus on working with older adults. After earning her MSW from Loyola University Chicago, Ms. Abbey has developed her skills in case management, program development, elder abuse, memory care, and supervision. Ms. Abbey has previously worked as a case manager at Leyden Senior Services and North Shore Senior Services and at Palatine Township Senior Center as Director of Social Services. She is currently a private practice therapist with In Home Counseling for Seniors. Ms. Abbey has provided many continuing eduation presentations to a variety of audiences on a wide variety of topics. She is also the Executive Director of the Kott Gerontology Institute: a non-profit organization that provides scholarships to graduate level students in a variety of fields focused on aging.