The matters of our hearts and minds are at the center of our worlds like never before. The spaces that we live our lives- work, school, community centers, retreats and online are microcosms of our world at large. We are in a point in time where we are de-stigmatizing real world issues in these spaces. Anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, mood disorders and more take up space, everywhere.

One way Blackwell supports this need is coming to chat about it! At workshops, conferences, forums, lectures and Grand Rounds, podcasts and other social events Blackwell can come to you or your organization to support you in many area of expertise. In a lighthearted, engaging yet direct way, we’ll explore and discuss solutions to the following topics:

  • Aging, Trauma and Social Work Practice

  • Policy, Politics and Mental Health

  • Race Based Trauma

  • Healthcare, Healthcare Workers and Mental Health

  • Mental Health and the Artist, Athlete and Creative

Aging, Trauma, and Social Work

Blackwell supports social workers, health care professionals and caregivers with transformative workshops that address the complex intersection of aging, trauma, and social work practice. As a clinician and advocate for older adult and caregiver well-being, we offer dynamic workshops designed to enhance understanding, skills, and support for older adults impacted by traumas.

As our population ages, social workers play a vital role in supporting older adults' mental health and well-being, especially those who have experienced racial trauma throughout their lives. By addressing the unique challenges and needs of aging survivors of trauma, we can promote healing, resilience, and dignity in later life. Blackwell’s workshops blend expertise in trauma-informed care with a deep understanding of aging and social work principles. Through historical deep dives and case studies, participants will gain valuable insights, practical tools, and resources to effectively support older adults impacted by trauma.

Workshop Topics Include:

  • Supporting Aging Survivors of Historical Trauma and Adversity

  • Understanding Trauma Across the Lifespan: Implications for Aging

  • Trauma-Informed Approaches to Geriatric Social Work Practice

  • Addressing Trauma and Resilience in Older Adult Populations

  • Self-Care and Burnout Prevention for Social Workers in Aging Services

Each workshop is tailored to meet the specific needs and goals of social work professionals, agencies, and organizations. Whether focusing on direct practice, program development, or policy advocacy, we customize content and delivery to maximize relevance and impact.

Race Based Trauma

Racial trauma, or race-based traumatic stress, is the mental and emotional injury caused by primary or secondary encounters with racial bias and ethnic discrimination, racism at the center. Any individual that has experienced an emotionally painful, sudden, and uncontrollable racist encounter is at risk of suffering from a race-based traumatic stress injury. Black, Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC) are most vulnerable due to living under a system of white supremacy in the Western World however this extends into Africa, Asia, Australia and South America.

In our society, racial discrimination and injustice have profound implications for individuals, families, and communities. Race-based trauma encompasses the psychological and emotional toll of experiencing or witnessing racial discrimination, oppression, and microaggressions. By addressing race-based trauma, we can foster understanding, empathy, and resilience in the face of adversity.

Blackwell’s speaking engagements provide a safe and inclusive space for honest conversations about race, trauma, and healing. Through education, storytelling, and interactive discussions, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the root causes and manifestations of race-based trauma, as well as strategies for coping, clinical implications, policy implications and advocacy.

Topics Include:

  • Recognizing and Validating Race-Based Trauma Experiences

  • Understanding the Intersectionality of Race, Identity, and Mental Health

  • Healing from Racial Trauma: Coping Strategies and Resilience Building

  • Addressing Systemic Racism in Mental Healthcare and Support Services

Each speaking engagement is customized to meet the unique needs and goals of your audience. Whether speaking to mental health professionals, educators, community leaders, or the general public, we adapt content and delivery to promote meaningful dialogue and actionable change.

Politics, Policy and Mental Health

In today's complex world, policy decisions profoundly impact mental health outcomes for individuals, families, and communities. By shedding light on the intricate and intersectional relationship between policy and mental health issues and practice, we can advocate for change, promote access to care, and foster resilience in the face of societal challenges. Blackwell’s speaking engagements blend 11 years of clinical experience in psychotherapeutic settings, care coordination and advocacy with a deep understanding of policy implications. Whether addressing healthcare reform, social determinants of health, or stigma reduction, we provide valuable insights, practical strategies, and inspiring stories to inform and inspire your audience.

Topics Include:

  • Healthcare Policy and Mental Health Access

  • Legislative Advocacy for Mental Health Equity

  • Addressing Social Determinants of Mental Health

  • Breaking Down Stigma: Policy Perspectives

  • Crisis Intervention and Policy Response

Whether speaking to policymakers, healthcare professionals, community organizations, or the general public, Blackwell adapts content and delivery to maximize impact and engagement.

Mental Health and the Artistic Athlete

Unlock the potential of the artistic athlete with transformative workshops that prioritize mental health, resilience, and peak performance. As a dedicated psychotherapist and advocate for holistic well-being, I offer dynamic workshops designed to empower performers to thrive both on and off the stage. In the demanding world of artistic performance, mental health plays a critical role in achieving success and sustaining longevity. By addressing the unique challenges and pressures faced by artistic athletes, we can cultivate a culture of support, self-care, and mental resilience. My workshops blend expertise in psychotherapy with a deep appreciation for the creative process. Through interactive exercises, meaningful discussions, and practical tools, participants will gain valuable insights, strategies, and resources to enhance their mental well-being and performance.

Topics Include:

  • Understanding Performance Anxiety and Stress Management

  • Cultivating Confidence and Self-Efficacy in Artistic Expression

  • Building Resilience: Coping Strategies for Challenges and Setbacks

  • Mindfulness and Mind-Body Connection for Peak Performance

  • Balancing Artistic Passion with Self-Care and Boundaries

Each workshop is tailored to meet the specific needs and goals of artistic athletes, coaches, and organizations. Whether focusing on individual performance enhancement, team dynamics, or organizational culture, I customize content and delivery to maximize relevance and impact.

If you are ready to empower your communities with the tools and strategies, contact me to discuss booking a workshop for your team, organization, or event. Together, we can foster a culture of support, resilience, and artistic excellence.