ProfessionalCommunication for Therapists: Collaboration, Referral, and Managing Conflict

Professional communication is an essential part of clinical practice, influencing everything from referrals and collaboration to professional relationships and client care. Even experienced therapists can encounter challenges when expectations are unclear, communication styles differ, or conflict arises with colleagues.

This course will help clinicians strengthen the skills needed to communicate clearly and professionally across a variety of settings. We explore effective referral and collaboration practices, professional networking and consultation, verbal and nonverbal communication, written and email communication, and the unique challenges that can arise when communicating virtually. 

We also move beyond everyday communication and into navigating professional conflict. Clinicians will explore common conflict styles, recognize their own patterns under stress, learn strategies for difficult interactions, and consider how to establish boundaries, repair professional ruptures, and recognize when escalation or additional support may be appropriate. 

This course is offered asynchronously and, upon completion, participants can earn 3 CEs. It is taught by Julie Labanz, MA, LPCC-S, CST, CST-S and Matt Lachman, M.Ed., M.S., LPCC-S, CST, CST-S.