The Mental Health Board and the Center for Emotional Wellness of the Northwest Suburbs have partnered to offer this training opportunity for our Behavioral Health network.
REGISTER HERE!
FREE: 1 IDFPR CEU for LSW/LCSW, LPC/LCPC, Psychologists, and ISBE CPDU’s for School Professionals
SUMMARY and OBJECTIVES
This virtual CEU training provides counselors with an in-depth understanding of the psychological, emotional, and social impacts of chronic pain and chronic illness. Participants will explore evidence-based counseling approaches that help clients manage pain-related distress, adjust to long-term health conditions, and enhance overall well-being. The training emphasizes a biopsychosocial perspective, culturally responsive care, and practical interventions that support resilience, coping, and improved quality of life.
By the end of this training, participants will have a deeper understanding of the complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors that shape the experience of chronic pain and chronic illness. They will learn to recognize common mental health concerns associated with chronic health conditions, including depression, anxiety, grief, and adjustment challenges, while developing practical skills to implement evidence-based counseling interventions. The training will also explore strategies for fostering resilience, self-management, and adaptive coping, as well as the broader impact of chronic conditions on family relationships, employment, and daily functioning. Emphasis will be placed on integrating culturally responsive and trauma-informed practices and strengthening collaboration with healthcare providers and interdisciplinary teams to support comprehensive, client-centered care.
PRESENTERS
Megan Nogasky, JD, LCSW, is a warm, nonjudgmental clinician who enjoys building unique therapeutic relationships with each person she sees. She received her undergraduate degree from Yale University and law degree from The University of Chicago. After several years as an attorney, Megan completed UIC’s MSW program and is currently a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Prior to joining the Center for Emotional Wellness, she developed and served as Director of the Mental Health, Pain, and Illness PHP/IOP at Compass Health Center in Northbrook. She has extensive experience providing individual, family, and group therapy to clients with a wide variety of diagnoses and stressors, including: depression, anxiety, perfectionism, trauma, chronic pain and illness, and grief and loss. Megan has particular interest in working with lawyers, law students, executives, teachers, and other professionals.
One of Megan’s top priorities as a therapist is to offer a friendly, open environment in which clients feel safe enough to discuss vulnerable topics. She values balance in her practice: between empathy and challenge, comfort and actionable steps. This balance is also apparent in her modalities of choice: Megan is highly knowledgeable in evidence-based practices (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), but is keenly aware that therapy is not one-size-fits-all. She prides herself on her eclectic approach, and her ability to quickly shift strategies when needed. Megan is committed to providing an inclusive space that is welcoming to those from marginalized communities (including LGBTQ+ clients, those in non-traditional family or relationship structures, and more).
