For mental health professionals, family caregivers, and other supportive professionals
SANTA BARBARA —While caring for an aging parent or family member could be viewed as a burden, a growing body of research that suggests caregivers can benefit from their role—achieving an increased sense of purpose and personal growth. The Caring Together Symposium, organized by Family Service Agency and Antioch University, will explore how to manage caregiver stress and find balance and joy. Scheduled for 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on September 7 in Santa Barbara and (same time) on September 8 in Santa Maria, the presentation is free and open to the public.
The course is geared toward mental health professionals, family caregivers, and other supportive professionals and community members. Keynote speakers Barry J. Jacobs, Psy.D. and Julia L. Mayer, Psy.D. will present “Finding Gratitude and Positive Meaning in Family Caregiving.” A panel discussion and question-and-answer session will follow. Spanish interpretation will be provided. Refreshments and free parking are also available. The course qualifies for 3.5 continuing education units (CEUs) for LCSW, LMFT, and LPCC participants.
The symposium is made possible through generous sponsorship of Santa Barbara City College and the Santa Barbara Foundation.
Reservations are recommended, as seating at both venues is limited. For more information and to register, visit CaringTogetherSB.org.
About Family Service Agency of Santa Barbara County: The mission of Family Service Agency (FSA) is to strengthen and advocate for families and individuals of all ages and diversities, helping to create and preserve a healthy community. Established in 1899, FSA is one of Santa Barbara County’s most reliable and effective nonprofit human service organizations. Its Caregiver Mental Health & Support Program provides free counseling and support services to those who care for a senior and includes needs assessment, goal setting, individual, family, and/or group counseling, information and referrals. For more information, visit www.fsacares.org.
About Antioch University: Antioch University provides learner-centered education to empower students with the knowledge and skills to lead meaningful lives and to advance social, economic, and environmental justice. Antioch aspires to be a leading university offering learners and communities transformative education in a global context that fosters innovation and inspires social action. For more information, visit www.antioch.edu.
FSA, Antioch, and the Alzheimer’s Association formed a partnership in 2016 to support and educate caregivers and the professionals who serve them, including student training at Antioch University in Santa Barbara.