Upcoming Workshops
ICPN team members have been providing onsite-learning opportunities since the inception of the program. In 2015, ICPN launched the Professional Development Initiate to benefit members of the community and provider agencies. Since this time, both members of ICPN and outside speakers have offered Professional Development Workshops and Learning Experiences throughout the state of Illinois. All topics are based on observed trends in the field in an effort to provide support to staff and community members working with adults and children with challenging behaviors and/or medical difficulties. Goals of this initiative include increasing the education to those who take care of and provide services, providing relevant tools, and attempting to shift the focus of treatment away from crisis, and work towards prevention.
Understanding Personality Disorders in People with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities
June 3, 2021
The conceptualization of personality disorders has centered largely on the personality functioning of neurotypical populations. Historically, little attention has been focused on the identification and treatment of personality disorders in persons with intellectual/developmental disabilities (IDD). The National Association for the Dually Diagnosed (NADD) outlines special factors related to this topic. This presentation will explore these special factors, including developmental processes, differential diagnosis, and unique cultural experiences, among others. We will explore the 10 personality disorders currently recognized in the DSM-5 through the lens of the Diagnostic Manual for Intellectual Disability (DM-ID-2) as well as through select case examples. Special emphasis will be placed on the onset, course, etiology, and treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder.
2.0 CEU’s available for: LNHA, LCPC, LPC, LSW, LCSW, QIDP, OTA, OT, PT, PTA, LPN, RN, APN
Differential Diagnosis of Genetic Disorders and Autism Spectrum Disorder
June 9, 2021
This presentation will compare and contrast Autism Spectrum Disorder with the most prevalent Genetic Disorders. Specifically, we will compare the physical characteristics, co-morbid medical conditions, and issues, along with the behavioral presentations of ASD with these syndromes. The presentation will emphasize the unique characteristics and issues associated with each condition that may assist in the differential diagnosis of these conditions. Case studies will be presented to exemplify the similarities and differences between these conditions. The presentation will also review current treatment recommendations for different genetic disorders and highlight current research on promising treatments for those disorders. Participants will receive a tool to aid in the differential diagnosis of genetic disorders along with links to resources for support.
Medication Dynamics and Polypharmacy Issues in Vulnerable Populations
June 23, 2021
During this presentation, we will examine the basic principles of pharmacodynamics (what drugs do to the body) and pharmacokinetics (what happens to drugs in the body). Diving into drug management issues, we will identify challenges faced with polypharmacy among vulnerable populations such as people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and older adults. We will also discuss the consequences of overprescribing and how optimal therapy can be achieved. We will review risk factors for the development of adverse drug effects and highlight some key concepts regarding drug interactions with other medications and disease processes. Lastly, we will highlight some troublesome medications and ways to prevent polypharmacy when working with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Beyond the Basics: Dealing with Dementia after Diagnosis
July 13, 2021
You notice signs and symptoms of dementia in your client and take him/her to the physician. Your client receives a diagnosis of dementia – what should you do next?! This workshop will identify and discuss the steps a health care worker should take after a doctor verifies memory impairment. You will learn about ways to inform your staff and peers in the home or community and recognize how goals and service plans may change throughout the decline process. Instructors will also review other medical issues that may arise during the diagnosis.
Useful Treatment Strategies: Understanding and Supporting Persons with an Intellectual/Developmental Disability Who Have Been Diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder
July 27, 2021
Borderline Personality Disorder is a serious mental disorder marked by a pattern of ongoing instability in moods, behavior, self-image, and functioning. These experiences often result in impulsive actions and unstable relationships. This learning experience will provide an overview regarding the features of Borderline Personality Disorder as well as discuss how Borderline Personality Disorder may present in people with Developmental Disabilities. In addition to this, an overview of treatment strategies for managing difficult behavioral incidents common for people with Borderline Personality Disorder with be provided.
Differential Diagnosis of Genetic Disorders and Autism Spectrum Disorder
July 28, 2021
This presentation will compare and contrast Autism Spectrum Disorder with the most prevalent Genetic Disorders. Specifically, we will compare the physical characteristics, co-morbid medical conditions, and issues, along with the behavioral presentations of ASD with these syndromes. The presentation will emphasize the unique characteristics and issues associated with each condition that may assist in the differential diagnosis of these conditions. Case studies will be presented to exemplify the similarities and differences between these conditions. The presentation will also review current treatment recommendations for different genetic disorders and highlight current research on promising treatments for those disorders. Participants will receive a tool to aid in the differential diagnosis of genetic disorders along with links to resources for support.
Compassion Fatigue and Burnout
August 10, 2021
Compassion fatigue and burnout are common experiences for staff in the helping professions. In this training, staff will be able to learn about these difficulties as well as how to combat them. Learning how to build resiliency and sustain our personal and professional selves allows us to continue to serve the intellectual disabilities community to the best of our abilities.
Beyond the Basics: Dealing with Dementia after Diagnosis
August 17, 2021
You notice signs and symptoms of dementia in your client and take him/her to the physician. Your client receives a diagnosis of dementia – what should you do next?! This workshop will identify and discuss the steps a health care worker should take after a doctor verifies memory impairment. You will learn about ways to inform your staff and peers in the home or community and recognize how goals and service plans may change throughout the decline process. Instructors will also review other medical issues that may arise during the diagnosis.