The Strengths-Based Approach to Psychotherapy
Trainer
Dr. Kimberly Ernest, Ph.D., LPC (Read Bio)
Description
The Strengths-Based Approach to Psychotherapy training explores how clinicians can reorient from deficit-focused models toward frameworks that identify and cultivate client assets, resilience, and positive functioning. Rooted in positive psychology and systemic theory, the training emphasizes understanding “what is strong” rather than “what is wrong” with clients. Participants learn to integrate strengths-based principles across therapeutic modalities. We will explore how one can integrate strengths-based approaches in CBT and psychodynamic approaches as well as solution-focused and family systems models. This is done by highlighting contextual supports such as family, community, and cultural resources. Through research-backed strategies, the presentation demonstrates how strengths-based work enhances client empowerment, engagement, and long-term outcomes, particularly among marginalized or trauma-affected populations. Clinicians are also encouraged to recognize vicarious resilience. Introducing a brief exercise that will cultivate the professional growth and hope derived from witnessing client recovery, which contributes to lower burnout and greater professional satisfaction. Ultimately, the training positions strengths-based practice as both an ethical and sustainable foundation for individual, systemic, and organizational transformation.
Credits Available
1.50 APA CE Credits For Psychologists, Social Workers or Professional Counselors
(See Additional Credit Details)
Cancellations: PCS reserves the right to cancel or reschedule any training at any time (in which case you will have the option to receive a full refund or attend on the rescheduled date).
Refunds: Participants may cancel their registration(s) at any time prior to the training date. A 10% cancellation fee will be deducted from the original registration fee, and the remainder will be refunded. No refund will be provided if the cancellation occurs within two weeks of the training date.
- PCS is approved by the American Psychological Association (APA) to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. PCS maintains responsibility for this program and its content.
- People who attend PCS trainings in their entirety may receive CE credits for psychologists/LPC/ LSW/LCSW/ LMFT or general training credits, including CAC/DDAP. For other licenses, please consult with your respective licensing board.
- Following each training, participants who have attended the training in its entirety will receive a PCS Training Feedback form via email.
- After receipt of the completed form, PCS will issue a certificate via email indicating the CE credits that have been obtained.
Kimberly Ernest lives in Hummelstown, PA, with her husband and two young boys. Kimberly holds a bachelor's degree in psychology from Pennsylvania State University, a master's degree in experimental psychology from the University of Texas at San Antonio, and a doctorate in clinical psychology from the University of North Texas. Kimberly is currently a licensed clinical psychologist and a licensed professional counselor. She presently serves as the Executive Vice President & Vice President of Criminal Justice and Recovery Programs for Pennsylvania Counseling Services.