Mental Health Counseling Continuing Education Series

Searight Professional and Continuing Education (PACE) has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7431. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. Searight PACE is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.

Fall 2024

INTRODUCTION TO PLAY THERAPY (PACE 209)

Friday, November 15, 2024

• Learning Objective 1: Increase their understanding of different play theories and play therapy approaches.
• Learning Objective 2: Understand the developmental stages of children and children’s play.
• Learning Objective 3: Demonstrate an understanding of the role of the play therapist and the play therapy in the context of the client’s broader clinical (medical/psychiatric) and non-clinical system (family, school, community).
• Learning Objective 4: Read and understand the minimal training/supervision and voluntary practice guidelines promulgated by the Association for Play Therapy.

LAUNCHING A PRIVATE PRACTICE (PACE 208)

Friday, January 31, 2025

In this two-part PACE class event, the morning will be devoted to providing valuable information on how to start your own private counseling practice.

• Learning Objective 1: From Dream to Reality: Participants will learn information to assist in creating a healthy private practice.
• Learning Objective 2: Focusing on the Details: Participants will gain an understanding of practice management policies and procedure.
• Learning Objective 3: Financial Necessities: Participants will gain information about accounting, billing, and compensation.

BECOMING A TRAINING INSTITUTE (PACE 211)

Friday, January 31, 2025

This afternoon session focuses on creating a training institute.

• Learning Objective 1: Becoming a Training Institute: Participants will gain an understanding of the planning involved in developing a training institute.
• Learning Objective 2: Boundaries and Limits: Participants will learn about practice management.
• Learning Objective 3: Board Basics: Participants will learn what is involved in establishing a board.

MIND, BODY, SPIRIT: NAVIGATING DSM, THERAPEUTIC TRENDS, AND BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVES (PACE 210)

Friday, December 13, 2024

This presentation explores the multifaceted landscape of mental health, blending clinical mental health counseling, treatment modalities, and spiritual perspectives. It begins by delving into the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), the cornerstone reference for diagnosing mental health conditions. Attendees will gain insight into the diagnostic criteria, assessment tools, and the evolving nature of mental health classification.

Moving beyond diagnosis, the presentation navigates through diverse treatment approaches. From psychotherapy to pharmacotherapy, attendees will explore evidence-based interventions tailored to specific mental health disorders. Holistic modalities, encompassing lifestyle changes, alternative therapies, and complementary medicine, will also be discussed to highlight the importance of a comprehensive treatment approach.

The integration of biblical insights adds a unique dimension to the discourse. Drawing upon scriptures and spiritual principles, the presentation illuminates how faith can intersect with mental health. Attendees will examine the role of spirituality in coping mechanisms, resilience building, and finding meaning amidst psychological struggles.

Overall, this presentation offers a holistic perspective on mental health, encompassing clinical, psychological, and spiritual dimensions. By synthesizing DSM diagnoses, treatment strategies, and biblical wisdom, it aims to foster a deeper understanding of mental well-being and provide attendees with practical insights for navigating the complexities of the human psyche.

Instructor Bios

Dr. Cathy Sparks is the Director of the Master of Arts in Christian Counseling at Erskine College.  She is a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Supervisor, and a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor.  She has 37 years of experience as a therapist.  She is the Director of Counseling Education at Middle Tyger Community Center in Lyman, SC specializing in play therapy for children.  Dr. Sparks educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Wofford College, Master of Education in Elementary School Counseling from the University of South Carolina, Educational Specialist in Counseling from the University of South Carolina, Educational Specialist in Marriage and Family Therapy from Converse College, and an Educational Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Liberty University.

Dr. Lorell Gordon is an Assistant Professor in the School of Psychological Sciences and Counselor Education at Gardner-Webb University. Dr. Gordon’s background includes working with various agencies to include group and solo practice, behavioral health facilities, and military settings; she is also a veteran of the Naval Reserves. Dr. Gordon holds several credentials in South Carolina such as Licensed Professional Counselor/Supervisor, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist/Supervisor, and Licensed Addictions Counselor. She currently teaches in the Clinical Mental Health Counselor graduate program. Dr. Gordon earned a Ph.D. from the University of South Carolina in Counselor Education, an Ed.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy from Converse College, and a M.Ed. in Guidance and Counseling from Winthrop University. 

Dr. Simone McIntyre (PhD, NCC, LCAS, LCMHC, LAC, LPC, CCM, MAC) is a dually licensed mental health and addictions therapist in North and South Carolina.  She has worked in the field in various capacities since 2002 and strives to improve lives and strengthen communities through education and empowerment.  She earned her PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision where her dissertation focused on the collaboration experiences between professional counselors and African American pastors. Dr. McIntyre is a wife and mother of four. She is also a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated and her favorite quote is by Audrey Hepburn, “Nothing is impossible, the word itself says I’m possible”.

Dr. Sharon Webb is Professor and Program Coordinator for the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Programs in the Department of Counselor Education at Gardner-Webb University. She has a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision, with a Specialization in Trauma and Crisis. She is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, a National Board-Certified Counselor, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.  Dr. Webb has been a volunteer with the American Red Cross for over 25 years, to include serving as a National Disaster Mental Health Manager, Disaster Mental Health Trainer, and Service to the Armed Forces Resiliency Lead and facilitator for NC and 4 SC counties.  

Susan Tankersley has had a passion for families for thirty years. She began working in her local church with the children and youth ministries at the age of 18. In order to better help families, Susan returned to school and earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from North Greenville University and a Master of Marriage and Family Therapy from Converse College. Susan also earned a two-year Fellowship with WestGate Training and Consultation Network after graduating from Converse. In 2010 Susan began teaching in the Psychology Department of North Greenville University and opened her first private practice. As Susan continued to learn and grow as a Marriage and Family Therapist, she had a strong desire to help train other mental health professionals. In 2013 Susan began taking on graduate student interns and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy Associates to mentor and supervise. In 2019 Susan created the non-profit teaching clinic, Heritage Institute, where she serves as a Supervisor and the Executive Director. Currently, with the private practice, Susan Tankersley Family Therapy, Susan works with high conflict couples and high conflict families involved with the family court system.

Terrance Dawkins is a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Independent Social Worker-Clinical Practice (LISW-CP) from Spartanburg, South Carolina. He holds dual licenses as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in South Carolina and North Carolina and operates his own private practice, Missing Pieces Counseling Services. He also works at the Counseling Center at Furman University. Mr. Dawkins holds a Master’s degree in Social Work from Winthrop University.