2024 Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh Seminar Series


A Seminar Utilizing a Gestalt Framework to Explore Everything You’ve Always Wanted to Know About Psychopharmacotherapy

It is common for mental health clinicians to encounter clients facing decisions about medications. In an effort to increase familiarity with Psychopharmacotherapy, this seminar will provide an opportunity to increase understanding of both FDA approved, Over the Counter,(OTC)  and self-medication options utilizing a Gestalt framework.

Join Our Esteemed Experts in Their Seminar Focusing on FDA Approved Mental Health Medications and An Examination of non-FDA approved medications for mental health conditions, including ketamine, psilocybin and MDMA.

Thursday October 17, 2024

5:30 – 8:45 pm

Tuition $120

Register here.

3.0 Continuing Education credits

LPC, Social Work and Marriage and Family Therapists and Psychologists

This is an On-line presentation via ZOOM.

Presented by:

Nicole Weiland, PharmD, Master’s in Counseling Candidate at SWC

Dr. Nicole Weiland (she/her) is a pharmacist with a specialized focus in pain management, palliative, and hospice care currently working in the managed care setting. Through years of working with patients at the end of life, she has developed a nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between the body, mind, and spirit.

Nicole is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Counseling at Southwestern College in Santa Fe, with a specific emphasis on psychedelic medicine. Nicole is passionate about exploring the potential of novel therapeutic approaches to address mental health care. By combining pharmaceutical expertise with learned counseling skills, Nicole hopes to provide holistic, alternative, and compassionate care to her patients in the future.

Holly Lassila, DrPH, MSEd, RPh, LPC 

Dr. Lassila earned her pharmacy degree from the University Of Pittsburgh School Of Pharmacy and her doctoral degree in Epidemiology from the University Of Pittsburgh Graduate School Of Public Health.  She also earned her Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling from the School of Education at Duquesne University.  She is a licensed pharmacist and a licensed professional counselor.  In her role as Associate Professor at Duquesne University, she teaches courses in all four professional years.  Her clinical site is at Squirrel Hill Health Center, which is a federally qualified health center.  She has completed the Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh’s Two Year training Program for Professionals and the Earned a Certificate for completion of GIP’s Advanced Training program.  She is adjunct faculty for the Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh and maintains a private practice in the Institute offices. 

Learning Objectives:  Upon completion of this 3-hour seminar, participants will be able to:

  1. Identify commonly used medications for mental health related treatment.
  2. Integrate effective methods of collaboration with medication prescribers to support continuity of care for clients.
  3. Identify the differentiating elements between FDA approved medications and currently trending non FDA approved medications for mental health conditions, including ketamine, psilocybin and MDMA.
  4. Evaluate the ethical considerations surrounding psychedelic-assisted therapy, including informed consent, potential risks and benefits, and the role of therapeutic settings.

Statement on Multiculturalism and Diversity:  Many indigenous cultures have long-standing traditions of using psychedelic substances for spiritual and healing purposes. Recognizing and respecting these traditions is essential for culturally sensitive psychedelic therapy. Also, as psychedelic therapy becomes more prevalent, practitioners look to the queer and kink communities that have paved the way for establishing informed consent in un-ordinary states of consciousness

OTHER PROGRAM INFORMATION

Statement on Privacy Policy
This Privacy Policy explains the Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh’s treatment of your personally identifiable information collected in connection with your activities with the Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh and its website. This Privacy Policy also explains how you can ask questions and make suggestions about our privacy practices and review and update your personal information. We urge you to read the GIP Privacy Policy carefully and to check back periodically as this Privacy Policy may change from time to time. Please note that this Privacy Policy does not apply to the practices of companies or websites, which are not owned or controlled by the Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh.

Statement on Assessment and Evaluation

Knowledge and Skills Assessment: This seminar will utilize directed experiential activities and feedback to assess participant’s increased knowledge proficiency

Feedback Mechanisms: Recommendations will be made through the use of constructive feedback to participant’s regarding future skill development in this specialty area.

Statement on Possible Risks

Every effort will be made to minimize any potential discomfort that may arise from challenges associated with the process of learning, related to adjustment of personal and professional knowledge, abilities, and skills

REGISTER NO LATER THAN Monday October 14, 2024 Here.

The Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. GIP maintains responsibility for this program and its content. The Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 5069. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified.                         

Refund Policy: Cancelations up to 36 hours prior to seminar date will receive full tuition refunded minus a $30 cancelation fee.

Cancellations within 36 hours will receive 50% of tuition cost as refund. 
Neither Holly Lassila, Nicole Weidman, Dr. Petrone, nor The Gestalt Institute is funded by any entity who would benefit from the presentation of this program.


Suicide Prevention Training for Mental Health Professionals

This training fulfills the requirements of House Bill 64 (Matt Adler Suicide Prevention Continuing Education Act).

The Bill requires that all mental health licensees complete at least one hour of continuing education in the assessment, treatment and management of suicide risks as part of the total continuing education required for license renewal.

Presenter: Dr. Thomas Petrone, Psychologist, LPC, NCC

Offered twice.

Friday, November 8, 2024 from 4:30 to 5:30 pm

Location: This is a virtual training via ZOOM 

AND

Friday, November 15, 2024 from 4:30 to 5:30 pm

Location:  This is an In Person Seminar at the Institute – 1824 Murray Avenue Suite 201 PGH Pa 15217

Register here.

1.0 CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDITS

 Psychologists, LPC, Social Work and Marriage and Family Therapists

Learning objectives: 

Upon completion of this seminar participants will be able to:

  • Explain the primary differences between suicide ideation, intent, gestures and attempts 
  • Identify two ways to assess for possible environmental and community-based sources of distress leading to suicidality
  • Summarize three interventions for tracking suicidal behavior, feelings, and ideation in the management of suicidal clients

The Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. GIP maintains responsibility for this program and its content. The Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 5069. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. GIP is solely responsible for all aspects of the program.

Refund Policy: Cancellations up to 36 hours prior to seminar date will receive full tuition refunded minus a $30 cancellation fee.

Cancellations within 36 hours will receive 50% of tuition cost as refund.  
Neither Dr. Petrone, nor The Gestalt Institute is funded by any entity who would benefit from the presentation of this program.

Register here.


A Gestalt Approach to Ethics and Boundary Management

This Gestalt theory based seminar will focus on supporting mental health practitioners’ commitment to the highest levels of ethical behavior, competence and integrity in the provision of mental health services

Presenter: Dr. Maura Krushinski, Psychologist, LPC, ACS, NCC 

Offered twice:

Friday, November 8, 2024 from 1-4:15 pm

Location:  This is a virtual training via ZOOM 

AND

Friday, November 15, 2024 from 1-4:15 pm

Location:  This is an In Person Seminar at the Institute – 1824 Murray Avenue Suite 201 PGH Pa 15217

Tuition: $100

Register here.

 3.0 CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDITS

 Psychologists, LPC, Social Work and Marriage and Family Therapists

Learning objectives: 

Participants will have the opportunity to: 

  • Demonstrate an understanding of three core concepts of Gestalt theory in recognizing and addressing three common ethical dilemmas
  • Apply two skills of Gestalt therapy as applied to the ethical decision-making process, diagnosis, and treatment planning while engaging in the provision of mental health services
  • Demonstrate the use of an ethical decision-making model when providing mental health services.

The Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. GIP maintains responsibility for this program and its content. The Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 5069. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. GIP is solely responsible for all aspects of the program.

Refund Policy: Cancellations up to 36 hours prior to seminar date will receive full tuition refunded minus a $30 cancellation fee. Cancellations within 36 hours will receive 50% of tuition cost as refund.  

Neither Dr. Krushinski, nor The Gestalt Institute is funded by any entity who would benefit from the presentation of this program.

Register here.


Embodied Connections: Sex Therapy through a Gestalt Lens

Join us for another opportunity to discuss this vital topic with a more in-depth look at the applications of Gestalt Therapy to sex as a topic in clinical practice

Presenter: Marisa Floro, LCSW, C.S.T.

Marisa Floro is a Gestalt-trained Certified Sex Therapist, whose therapeutic approach focuses on trauma-informed practice and somatic awareness.

Wednesday, November 13, 2024

5:30 pm to 8:45 pm

Fee: $120

Location: GIP 1824 Murray Avenue Suite 201 PGH Pa 15217

Register here.

3.0 CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDITS

And AASECT CEUs

LPC, Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapists and Psychologists, and Certified Sex Therapists

Upon completion of this 3-hour seminar, participants will be able to:

  • Practice techniques for Guiding Sexual Health Discussions 
  • Explain the Purpose of Sex Therapy and Its Link to Gestalt Theory
  • Explore the Importance of Awareness and Contact in Sexual Health
  • Integrate Gestalt Concepts and Experiments in Addressing Sexual Concerns
  • Reflect on Personal and Professional Beliefs about Sexuality

                                 

The Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor for continuing education for psychologists. GIP maintains responsibility for this program and its content. The Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 5069. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. GIP is solely responsible for all aspects of the program.

Refund Policy: Cancellations up to 36 hours prior to seminar date will receive full tuition refunded minus a $30 cancellation fee.

Cancellations within 36 hours will receive 50% of tuition cost as refund.  
Neither Marisa Floro, nor The Gestalt Institute is funded by any entity who would benefit from the presentation of this program.

Register here.


Continuing Education:

The Program offers a specific number of Continuing Education Credit per seminar

The Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. GIP maintains responsibility for this program and its content. The Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 5069. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. GIP is solely responsible for all aspects of the program.

Program Participants:

Each program is designed for participants who are:

  • Mental health professionals holding a degree in their respective field at a Masters and/or Doctoral degree level.
  • Licensed human services professionals including Psychologists, Social Workers, Licensed Professional Counselors and Marriage and Family therapists 
  • Teachers and school counselors in both educational and community settings.
  • Graduate students preparing for professional careers in mental health disciplines, behavioral sciences, or in the area of human services in which Gestalt methods would be a relevant extension of basic professional competence.
  • Professionals who are practicing law and specializing in mediation services
  • Two Year Program participants and graduates who are not practicing mental health professionals but who are interested in further skill development

Program Faculty:

This seminar training program is staffed by the current Faculty of the Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh and Program Graduates. The members of the faculty of the Pittsburgh Gestalt Therapy Training Program for Professionals are practicing therapists with over 40 years of experience. They have earned certificates for completing 2-year Gestalt Training programs and have participated in advanced Gestalt training for more than 30 years.  They are joined by Guest faculty who are practicing Gestalt therapists and vital members of the GIP community. This series also includes Umaa Thampu Faculty member Gestalt Centre of London.

  • Thomas Petrone, Ed.D. Licensed Psychologist, Licensed Professional Counselor
  • Maura Krushinski, Ed.D. Licensed Psychologist, Licensed Professional Counselor
  • Kristy Carnahan, MA. Licensed Professional Counselor
  • Connie Kramer, MA Licensed Professional Counselor
  • Stephanie Helsel, PhD, LPC
  • Holly Lassila, DrPH, MSEd, RPh, Licensed Professional Counselor
  • Umaa Thampu MBACP (Accred)

Mission Statement:  The mission of the Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh is educate, enlighten an excite individuals and trainees about the theory, integration and application of Gestalt therapy. Our Faculty and staff provide the highest quality programs to individuals seeking training, personal development and support for their professional and personal endeavors. The Institute is guided by belief in the wholeness of human experience, adherence to the highest ethical standards and support of social justice values.

Program Description:  This seminar program provides participants the time and opportunity to develop and practice foundational skills they acquired in their educational and in other professional endeavors.  It supports development from basic mental health practice to becoming a more skilled and more accomplished therapist with a Gestalt approach. The program offers the opportunity for theoretical inquiry, skill development and personal growth experience necessary to integrate Gestalt theory and methodology into each therapist’s personal and professional therapeutic style.

Statement on Multicultural Considerations and Equitability:

The field-theoretical and the phenomenological tenets as well as the principles of holism take, per definition, cultural differences into consideration. Implicit in its field-theoretical understanding is the fact that human beings are not islands but impacted by social influences as well as impactful on others. With respect to the existential field, each person shares a world with others in a variety of ways contributing to meaning and value. (Kirchner, 2000). As such the Administrative staff and faculty of the Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh are dedicated to conveying respect to all program participants without bias toward gender, physical disability, culture, ethnic origin, spiritual/religious orientation, sexual orientation or other personal differences.  It is the expectation of the Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh that all program participants will exercise the same principles.

Statement on Evaluation Process:

The Institute faculty will consider the following key elements when determining each participant’s completion of individual seminars and awarding of Continuing Education credit:

  • Full attendance and participation
  • Completion of seminar evaluation

Statement on Privacy Policy:

This Privacy Policy explains the Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh’s treatment of your personally identifiable information collected in connection with your activities with the Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh and its website. This Privacy Policy also explains how you can ask questions and make suggestions about our privacy practices and review and update your personal information.

We urge you to read the Privacy Policy (listed in full on our website) carefully and to check back periodically as this Privacy Policy may change from time to time. Please note that this Privacy Policy does not apply to the practices of companies or websites, which are not owned or controlled by the Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh.