Custom Training ~ Training that Transfers to the Workplace

Public sector employees don’t always think of themselves as customer service providers. Becoming Customer Service Stars explores the skills needed to achieve customer service excellence and the impact of interpersonal staff relationships that affect that process. Participants evaluate areas that work and those areas that need improvement. The thrust of the course is skill building in the areas of identified weakness. The overall mission of the Department is reviewed and the place that customer service plays in carrying out the mission is examined. Phone, e-mail, and verbal communication skills are practiced. Participants take home a workbook that they can use for future reference and create an Action Plan to transfer the learning in the class to the workplace.

Each of these generational groups has a different value system and way of experiencing the world and the workplace. Different doesn’t have to mean wrong. This course gives you the information that leads to a deeper understanding of all the generational perspectives. It also provides the communication skills to bridge the "generation gap." This is an enlightening course that delivers more than it promises: it brings understanding, appreciation, and insight. It is interesting and timely material. This course should be mandatory.

Do you ever have the feeling or thought that the opposite gender is speaking a foreign language? There are communication differences, but if you understand these differences, they don’t have to get in the way of productive work relationships. Learn about your own gender communication style and gain skills to talk to the opposite sex with more insight and effectiveness.

The writing styles of summary and analysis are often confused: this course offers the opportunity to get clarification on the differences between the expectations behind these two writing styles. It is helpful for both veteran probation officers working a juvenile caseload as well as newer hires who may not have taken their department’s respective core training program. Probation officers evaluate department reports and “get inside” the Probation Officer’s Evaluation section to deconstruct the anatomy of analytical writing. Sentence structure instruction to facilitate analytical writing style positively impacts writing competency. This class is extremely well-received and probation officers love this course, and, more importantly, learn a great deal.

This dynamic, interactive class combines vital counseling skills and strategies for daily interaction with clients/juveniles with all the components of effective crisis diffusion. Participants learn the steps involved in an escalating crisis situation from the standpoint of the client/juvenile and the proper response from the staff member to effectively diffuse the crisis situation before the critical control phase (use of force) takes place. They learn to anticipate, using their observational skills, an impending crisis and avert it. Participants learn to effectively and strategically use their body, voice, attitude, bearing and personality to gain and keep control of situations. Extensive demonstration from the knowledgeable instructor, as well as role-play and interactive exercises reinforce learning.

Building rapport with minors and using simple behavior modification strategies prepares juvenile institutions staff to interact and work with minors more safely and effectively. Institutions staff identify challenges they experience with minors and practice specific skills to build and maintain relationships that promote bonding, trust, and behavior change while maintaining a “firm, fair, and friendly” stance. The importance of active listening is stressed and structured activities support and enhance the retention of listening skills. Participants explore the importance of teamwork among staff members in role modeling positive behaviors for the minors. This class is easily customized to focus on a particular identified issue, if necessary.

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This course focuses on change and the changing roles line staff experience as they move to management. Often when line staff get promoted, they find themselves in the new position of supervising their peers. This course offers the opportunity to discuss, explore, and learn ways to deal well with this change while being effective. Additionally, new and seasoned supervisors learn strategies to make their team more effective; the focus is on leadership skills rather than simply “managing people.” Practical, logical, and insightful, this course provides supervisors skills to excel in their role.

This class prepares juvenile hall staff to receive both direct instruction and on-the-job coaching while working with “at risk” minors and their families and extended families. The motivational interviewing skills learned in prior class will be reinforced with feedback on style and ability to create a working relationship with minors, their families, and other community- based organizations and agencies. Participants are given individual verbal and written feedback on performance. Specific areas of improvement are identified in both interview and relationship building with an ongoing process to improve performance.

This course provides necessary skills to identify several mental illnesses. Participants explore difficulties associated with communicating with the mentally ill and learn how to use “tactical communication,” a necessary skill to effectively communicate. In addition, participants learn and practice how to speak with and listen to family members/caregivers of this population. Strategies for working with the physically or verbally mentally ill are covered in great detail. Finally, staff learn treatment and intervention strategies for the mentally ill.

Probation Department Supervisors identify and discuss current communication practices between staff and minors. Supervisors assess the communication styles and practices that impede a positive and safe environment in the institution. Participants self-evaluate individual supervisory styles and match these styles with the needs of the supervised line staff. Role play and reflective time are given priority. Action Plans are drafted and shared.

Juvenile Institutional staff examine their own value systems while, at the same time, discuss challenges that incarcerated minors face every day. Participants learn practice, and retain behavior modification communication techniques that support more positive interactions. This is a communication nuts-and-bolts course designed to equip staff with communication skills they need to thrive in the institutional setting.

Effective Performance-Based Evaluations are a productivity enhancement tool designed to motivate and encourage the employee. The relationship supervisors and managers create with employees motivates them (either positively or negatively). Meant to be non-punitive and instructional, the correct drafting and completion of these evaluations have one desired outcome: motivation. If effectively constructed, employee evaluations are helpful to the employee and aid in establishing, creating, and sustaining accountability within the department.

This course addresses unmanaged conflicts that can be potentially dangerous. Instruction is provided on how when one person loses their temper everyone around him/her can be affected. Participants discuss unresolved workplace conflicts that often have disastrous consequences: increased anxiety, anger, intimidation, blame, resentment, and, loss of productivity. Our instructors provide the tools to manage conflict in a positive way, turning a conflict that was once a liability into an asset. This course addresses a variety of situations from the most mundane procedural conflict to high tension and potentially explosive confrontations. This class is for all staff, from those whose first instinct is to react with anger in a difficult situation to those who avoid conflict so much they are paralyzed.

What are the root causes of stress in your work life? Participants examine stressors that lower productivity, job satisfaction, and impact their health and relationships, both on the job and at home. Stress is a fact of life for all law enforcement personnel. Recent research indicates increases in stress-related diseases that are caused by lifestyles saturated with stress and tension. Burnout, heart attacks, ulcers, decreased productivity; relationship problems, depression, loneliness, poor diet, substance use, and cynicism are frequent symptoms of chronic stress that adversely affect us personally, professionally, and physically. This class imparts techniques to lower your overall stress level. Participants learn to deal effectively with stressful people and situations by examining past lifestyle choices. Exposure to and practice with relaxation exercises is highlighted as is drafting a plan to make more drastic lifestyle choices. The course demands honest scrutiny of physical fitness and eating choices as well as ineffective communication strategies that may be causing unnecessary stress.

Coping with Difficult People enables participants to identify common characteristics and behaviors of "difficult" people and create and practice strategies to cope with them more easily and effectively. The dynamics of negativity and anger is investigated and the impact on work productivity. Interpersonal communication approaches are presented and practiced with learning aids to take back to the job. An Action Plan to go forward to use the learning in the workplace is created by each participant.

This course is designed for institutional staff who work with juvenile offenders in all probation department settings. Staff are often tasked with gathering large amounts of quality information in short amounts of time. Because minors need to feel supported while being directed and held accountable, staff members must have a working understanding of juvenile development, well-honed listening skills, and a good working knowledge of motivational interviewing techniques. Staff also need to know what to watch for to anticipate suicidality and severe depressive episodes in the minors. Counseling Skills for Time-Constrained Juvenile Staff provides staff proven strategies and practices that conserve time, create a better relationship with the minors, and help minors develop responsibility and self-esteem.

All aspects of courtroom testimony are explored in depth as participants identify and retain the needed behaviors to establish themselves as competent witnesses in and out of the courtroom. Probation officers learn how to establish credibility and believability. They are able to easily identify courtroom personnel and their roles as well as list key considerations in preparing for court. They learn the legal terminology used as well as the importance of dress, speech, body language, and demeanor. This is a strong course that provides solid information.

This vital, four-hour course imparts a volume of information to institutions staff about how to identify and interpret warning signs and triggers. Oppositional-Defiant Disordered minors, those who have just returned to the unit after seeing their probation officer, those who have a “bad visit” with their parents, or have come from court etc., can all be in a mental/emotional state to “act out” and potentially harm themselves and staff. Solutions for dealing with these situations - as well as identifying all the stages of a crisis and the most effective manner and time to intervene - are covered in this class which uses role play with real-world techniques, and real-world solutions.

Time to make an impact on detained minors is limited, but it is possible if all staff members consistently use the same strategies to meet the challenge and deal with their charges in a firm, fair, and consistent manner. The need to cover shifts seven days a week and around the clock -with a variety of staff- makes one issue critical: everyone needs to be “on the same page.” This course covers the absolute basics from de-escalation to five-minute counseling sessions. The focus is on building a working relationship with a minor that can motivate desire to change.

“Crystal” is now the illegal "drug of choice" nationwide. Physiology and pharmacology of the drug in its various forms begins this class and the identifiable symptoms of use/abuse/dependence. Use and impact of other drugs in concert with “crystal” is covered as is treatment, relapse, and probationer management issues. Participants hear from law enforcement officers, whenever possible and current methods used in intervention and the possible dangers to officers in making home visits is taught. A simple drug abuse/dependence screening method is taught and community resources are identified, including the use of 12-step programs as a way of supporting as well as holding probationers accountable.

Engaging participants in the learning process and creating transfer learning takes more than a good presenter and quality content! In this course, a course designer learns to meet the needs of the sponsoring department with clearly defined learning outcomes. Participants also learn how to choose materials and activities that create dynamic learning environments. This requires the understanding of different learning styles, learner motivation, and time use. Participants are invited to bring a course idea and leave with a course designed! This is a powerful course if training units and content area experts want to shorten their course creation and execution learning curve!

This class explores needed skills to achieve customer service excellence as well as the impact of interpersonal staff relationships that may help or hinder that process. Participants evaluate areas that are working well and also those areas that need improvement. The thrust of the course is skill-building in the areas of identified weakness. The overall mission of the department is reviewed and the place that customer service plays in carrying out the mission is examined. Phone, e-mail, and verbal communication skills are practiced as is the reinforcement that customers are both internal and external to the department. *Currently, a four-hour course.

In this advanced customer service skills course, participants are shown that all internal and external contacts are customers: clients, managers, and professional support staff. Emphasis is on communication and identifying personal communication style and its role in miscommunication. Participants focus on changing and monitoring their own behavior and communication patterns to create solution-based problem solving. Heavy emphasis is paid on telephone communication with both internal and external “customers.” In addition, face-to-face de-escalation techniques are taught and practiced. Participants learn how to handle a variety of reception area problems as well angry clients. Emphasis is on productive, healthy communication strategies between line staff and supervisors, as well. This is a solutions focused course and training experience.

Determinant Sentencing Law-Basic, a two-day course covers vital material probation officers need to understand and experience. Factors in aggravation and mitigation, enhancements, basic sentencing, consecutive sentencing, priors, aggregate terms, three strikes, and sex crimes are all covered in detail. Participants receive detailed instruction and clear, specific information on each. Afterwards, they experience a number of hands-on opportunities and real-world case scenarios; through these, they hone their skills by practicing new and/or updated information into case studies and hands-on activities. This course is thorough and interactive. Each section builds on the last. It is engaging and fun as well as very practical.

Participants learn both ethics fundamentals as well as the ethical standards within their own organization. The importance of proper conduct and decision making is stressed, as is the importance of instilling a code of professionalism. The art and science of becoming an ethical role model is underscored as is the reinforcement of each professional’s commitment to being the “best” they can be. This course inspires authentic reflection.

This course explores the impact of personal value systems, socialization, media, and generational affiliation on individual attitudes about other people: the learners identify historical changes that impact the experience of diversity here in this culture. While there is a discussion of gender, cultural, racial, and societal issues, the focus of this discussion is not what one might expect. Difference itself is generally the issue that divides people, more than skin color, cultural background, class, religion, or gender. The course allows participants to engage in dialogue that leads to greater appreciation and understanding of difference while, at the same time, hones communication skills.

This course presents a simple, standardized process for giving writers feedback on a document. The writer is able to make corrections more easily and with a clear idea of what is expected. Supervisors practice on actual sample documents and take away a sample of a standardized way to edit. The need for consistency in editing it underscored. Grammar review is included. Your department\'s own documents are generally used.

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This comprehensive, two-day course educates the participant on intimate partner abuse, and both family and juvenile domestic violence. The progressive nature of domestic violence (DV) is discussed and explored: the “cycle of violence” is examined. Participants learn about Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and other potential long-term psychological effects of DV on victims and those who witness the abuse and violence. Participants learn the current response from law enforcement, penal code sections, court orders, and the processes and pitfalls of prosecution. Further discussion centers on the impact domestic violence has on children in addition to DPO supervision issues including treatment oiptions for victims, perpetrators and their families. The second day affords a dynamic opportunity to meet and network with representatives from law enforcement (when possible) and local service agencies who share information and resources. Connections are made. There is a short question and answer period. This is a very productive, time-efficient course.

DSL Update (Advanced) covers vital material probation officers need to understand and have hands-on experience with. Factors in aggravation and mitigation, enhancements, basic sentencing, consecutive sentencing, priors, aggregate terms, three strikes, and sex crimes are all thoroughly covered. Course participants receive detailed instruction via clear, specific lecture on each area in the course. Each section builds on the last. It is engaging and fun as well as very practical.

Probationers are often from dysfunctional families, a fact that greatly influences whether or not they will succeed on probation! Understanding family systems is vital for both the Investigating and Supervision Probation Officer. The probation officer must understand family systems, as well, if there are planned family interventions. This class uses three familiar family traumas: incest, domestic violence, and substance abuse. Participants become familiar with family roles, possible interventions, as well as local community resources. Listening and speaking skills needed to communicate with these families are identified and practiced.

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This course focuses on the dynamics of dysfunctional families containing one or more members who suffer from any number of diagnosed mental illnesses. Participants learn effective strategies to recognize the symptoms and learn techniques to formulate treatment plans. Knowledge in this arena is also necessary to make appropriate recommendations to the courts.

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This course addresses the peace officer training requirements of Section 2951 (f)(1) of the Probate Code and focuses on significant topics surrounding elder abuse: elder abuse laws, recognizing financial abuse and fraud, mental competence assessment (in accordance with the standards set forth in Part 17 of the Probate Code), and reporting requirements/procedures for the investigation of financial abuse (and related) crimes. Neglect, as a crime, is covered as are civil and criminal procedures for the protection of the victims. Perpetrators of elder abuse, additional crimes related to the offense, and the human and psychological trauma involved are highlighted.

Enhancing Victim Interviewing Skills reviews the mechanics and theory base of the cognitive interview model universally used by law enforcement personnel. The course aids participants in identifying unique challenges they experience in interviewing victims and provides information and skill practice to work with a variety of victim populations. Particular emphasis is given to interview mechanics, memory enhancing techniques, reality of the victim, and particular challenges when interviewing minors and minors’ family. This course is specialized and offers real-work skills that can be used the next day.

This leadership course is powerful! In it, probation personnel get the opportunity and guidelines to learn the processes needed to redefine and/or create new programs, policies, and procedures. Learners practice the communication skills necessary to move forward with new ideas and create a framework for implementing a cultural change in any organization. From problem to idea, this course helps your organization facilitate change.

Domestic or Relationship Violence embeds itself in the family system and creates many victims. The most current intervention and treatment methods are taught; additionally, representatives are brought in as speakers and help sworn staff understand treatment options and logistics around programs available. Law enforcement, legal, and treatment resources representatives from your community help to create a training day that is high impact. Participants take away knowledge of the cycle of violence as it affects the whole family, a community resource list, and a very unique and powerful opportunity to network with other community agencies.

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Gain exposure and learn about gay, lesbian, and transgender lifestyles, issues, and dynamics. The class focuses on topics which may include: “coming out,” health issues, biases, and the legal and liability concerns/issues for those who manage this client. A community resource speaker is a part of this course and answers questions about the topic as well as discusses local programs and support resources in your community.

Participants learn to be great “executives” regardless of their title by increasing their personal effectiveness through learning to prioritize and organize. Staff increase skill level by using effective “win-win” communication techniques and practice stress-management techniques for better results in all work situations. High-energy and participant-centered, this course combines direct instruction with collaborative learning and role-play. Our course workbook, journaling, small-group discussion, and team-building activities are used to reinforce content and skills that transfer to the workplace. Participant Action Plan acts as “follow-through” takeaway resource as does the Getting Control of Your Workday workbook.

Using "group process" is an efficient and effective way to create behavior change in adult probationers. This class gives participants the needed information to begin to facilitate groups with confidence. The stages of group development are covered as is the role of the leader in each stage. Learn the strategies to deal with the “non-participator," "actor-outer," and “conversation monopolizer.” Practice facilitating a group and get feedback from a professional. Take away an anger management module and lots of hints on making groups productive and enjoyable for everyone.

Handling Change in Law Enforcement: Changing Times and Changing Lives teaches staff understanding and coping strategies to deal with rapid change in both their own lives and in the professional environment of Corrections. The focus is on the dynamics of change and resistance to it. Participants learn ways to stay both focused and productive. Staff also learn techniques to cope with the fear, loss, and the stress that accompanies change. At the conclusion of the course, using the techniques learned, participants are better able to proactively embrace the rapid changes taking place in both Corrections and their personal lives.

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This course is designed for law enforcement officers, warrant service teams, tactical teams, narcotics officers, probation officers, gang units, or military operators who work in an environment where a dynamic entry, whether planned or hasty, is required. The course begins with detailed classroom time covering intelligence gathering, operation planning, equipment selection and other essentials. Following the classroom presentation portion, participants receive practical application of this material. Participants experience hands-on training, working on and improving their approaches, breaking-and-entry drills, officer safety tactics/techniques and various types of room entries (stealth, wall flood, penetration flood, dynamic, warrant, etc.). This is an excellent, hands-on course with a highly specialized, experienced instructor.

Addiction to alcohol and/or drugs affects not only the user but those around him or her. Probation officers learn to quickly screen a probationer for alcohol/drug abuse/dependence in a non-confrontational way and determine the probable level of care needed. They become familiar with common treatment strategies used and determine the role and importance of 12-Step programs in full recovery. Varieties and classifications of drugs are covered in detail; furthermore, the course ties personality traits associated with one type of drug addict over another. Questions like these are easily answered after this class: What are the personality traits of a heroin addict versus the methamphetamine addict? Co-existing mental disorders, often a huge hurdle for recovering addicts/alcoholics, are discussed in detail. This course is a great first expsore as well as a great refresher. It is updated each year.

Writing skills can be a big workplace challenge for non-native English speakers. Improving Writing Skills for Non-Native Speakers reviews the smallest building blocks of written English with focused grammar review and sentence and paragraph construction. Conquer those tricky contractions and possessive nouns! Practice correct usage of prepositional phrases, as well writing concise, complete sentences with appropriate punctuation. Many resources are shared, so that the participant leaves with a roadmap to enhancing their learning outside the classroom.

Savvy interviewing techniques are vital to navigating both Investigations and Supervision of probationers. Different types of interviews require different approaches; these are all explained, as are barriers to getting good information. Conducting the actual interview is explained in detail as is active listening to elicit maximum information. Body language, avoidance of eye contact, voice fluctuations, and other behaviors are discussed and given meaning. Participants learn and practice skills via role-play and discussion debrief. This course provides POs solid information and skills and reminds the probation officer that “we” have to be more skilled at “reading them” than “they” may be at “not telling the truth.”

Reported violence among teens is growing. While the dynamics of violent relationships sometimes mirrors that of adults, understanding the particular psycho-social developmental stage of adolescents is critical in this context. This course addresses the particular role that love relationships play in teens’ lives; the importance of peers is stressed as well as ways of communicating with teens so that they are able to “hear” the message. Components of teen prevention and education programs are presented.

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Leadership is the responsibility of every employee in creating a productive, safe, and rewarding workplace. Learning basic leadership skills allows each person to contribute. The Mission Statement of an organization drives programs and defines ways that staff is to be with juvenile detainees, arrestees, clients, other citizens, and one another. To create this kind of workplace requires teamwork. Participants learn about the components of leadership, teamwork, and effective ways to complete projects and/or assignments. Activities and skill practice facilitate participants learning open communication, conflict resolution, and giving effective feedback to others.

This course teaches processes needed to redefine and/or create a new Mission Statement. Learners utilize work groups within the training class to discuss and define what their department’s Mission Statement might need to contain. The entire class then considers the needs of the probationer or minor, the stated purpose of the Department, and the unique needs of their Department. This class design helps facilitate this process for your Department. This is a useful forum for those departments that are seeking to change their Mission Statement and would like an organized, effective way to do that.

Screening someone for possible substance abuse is a necessary skill for nearly everyone who has an adult or juvenile caseload. In this course, you will learn (or review) the basics. Addiction can be puzzling and this class helps you “break the code.” You learn the strategies and practice the skills that let you partner with treatment programs in holding the probationer or minor accountable while motivating him/her to get and stay “clean and sober.” Learn the 12-Step lingo, relapse prevention techniques, and the value of consequences to change behavior. Take away resources are specific to your community.

The success of evidence-based practices and strength-based assessment require departments to excel at motivational interviewing, tying resources to case planning. The goal of motivational interviewing is to form a working relationship with the probationer. The end result of a working relationship with a probationer is to encourage compliance with the terms and to successfully complete their probation grant. With both adults and juveniles, the interview skill of the officer can and does influence the probationer motivation level. This class instructs participants in motivational interview methods and techniques recognized as being effective with this population. Using case studies, participants practice this specific interview method step by step and take away learning aids and a workbook that support the officer in putting the learning into practice on the job. This is an active, hands-on course, and is extremely well-received statewide.

This class picks up where the basic Motivational Interviewing class leaves off. Remembering that the success of evidence-based practices and strength-based assessment require departments to excel at motivational interviewing, the goal of motivational interviewing is to form a working relationship with a probationer. The end result of a working relationship with a probationer is to encourage compliance with the terms and to successfully complete their probation grant. With both adults and juveniles, the interview skill of the officer can and does influence the motivation level of the probationer. This class reviews the learning from the basic class and shares experiences from implementation. The focus is on honing these skills in a variety of case study scenarios. Peers will observe skill practice dyads or role play family groups and give feedback to colleagues on specific criteria keyed to Motivational Interviewing concepts. Participants will take away a learning aid to help transfer skill to the workplace.

Negativity in the workplace is a phenomenon that, in some organizations, has become a cultural norm. Negative thinking and behavior is a choice. Learners explore their own experience of negativity and assess its impact. The instructor helps the participants identify the sources of negativity: the “clients,” the department or division, co-workers, and/or themselves. Through group and individual activities, staff acquires many survival skills and communication strategies to limit and manage personal and others’ toxic, negative behavior. Negativity is a choice: this course helps participants understand the reasons they choose negative thoughts and actions. At the end of the day, individuals and groups create Action Plans and anti-negativity materials to take back to their workplace(s) and home(s).

Confrontation doesn’t have to mean "getting in someone’s face." Verbal skills are a safe and viable alternative to force, when you know how to use them. Designed for those who have the ability to use force but want only to use it as a last resort, Positive Confrontation defuses escalation and provides a safer environment for the officers and people with whom they interact. Use of Force can create personal and organizational liability, injury, and mountains of paperwork. This is a great course with powerful tools.

This course helps to create clarity about the characteristics of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It explores the elements of stress-related and traumatic incidents, including occupational stress. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder sheds light on the symptom constellations in stress disorders and teaches intervention strategies. The final module of the course explains how specifically to manage a person diagnosed with this mental disorder.

This course updates and/or informs Juvenile Field Officers about Strength-based Assessment for juveniles and their families. This interactive, participant-centered course reviews the Pre-Plea/Dispositional Court Report and practices writing key sections. It can be modified to suit your department’s specific learning gaps or other identified needs.

High quality presentation skills are critical; this course teaches the "basics of group process" and explains how to use those "basics" to keep learners engaged and activities alive and enjoyable. This course teaches the best ways to overcome resistance for mandated training and deal with disruptive/difficult participants; further, the secrets of getting participants back from breaks on time, mixing up groups, and “reading your audience” are highlighted in this course that takes the participant to the next level. Each person receives feedback on their presentation style and a chance to practice their skills.

Probation Eligibility Made Clear teaches the basics of felony probation eligibility requirements. In addition, probation officers get the facts about presumptive state prison cases, their basic framework, and how to determine if a case is unusual. Particular applications are covered and participants have the opportunity to learn how to process the information through the use of case studies and real examples. The most current information in the field is provided in this course and the instructor, a legal expert, makes clear the different rules and requirements. Suitability is covered. Participants receive resource material that isvaluable reference material.

Probation Officer Safety and Tactics equips probation officers with the tools required to maintain the correct mindset to practice safety and the appropriate and effective physical stances, etc. which ensure safety. Safe searches of dwellings, restraint techniques, striking instruments (baton) retention, gun retention, room searches as well as vehicle searches are covered in detail. This is a great survey course that offers a great deal of basic information, a great refresher.

In today’s climate of rapid change, early retirement, and faster promotions, staff need additional methods to manage their workloads. This course focuses on creating a personal system to know how time is currently spent and ways to pre-plan time use. Participants learn stress-reducing techniques enabling them to be more efficient and better at prioritizing. They learn the dynamics of procrastination and use this information to better handle the increasing demands on their time and energy. Time is a finite component of the workday; this class enables all learners to assess how their time is spent and what activities and behaviors are not productive.

Search and Seizure demystifies these laws and separates “fact from fiction.” This course uses basic scenarios and case studies to clarify Search and Seizure Law for field officers. Clarity about what basic search law includes and recent, updated information about law changes helps field officers conduct probation field work effectively, efficiently, and legally.

Sentencing Credits or Credits for Time Served provides the DPO with information regarding sentencing credits or credit for time served. There is a need to understand this material by adult probation, investigations and supervision officers and issues pertaining to juvenile offenders. In addition to statutory requirements, issues regarding entitlement for actual and good conduct/work credits can change periodically with changes in case law. The material is updated periodically as changes in either the statutory law or case law occur.

The course material provides reference to the applicable case law that pertains to the different credit for time served situations. Statutory requirements and case law is addressed. Activities include written exercises, based on realistic scenarios, and the student is required to apply what is learned. Each written exercise problem is then discussed and reviewed in class to facilitate the learning process.

Process addictions; sex, gambling, and relationships, share many of the same diagnostic features as addiction to drugs and alcohol. The major difference is that the individual with a process addiction manufactures his/her own drug in the brain. It is vital to understand the difference between a sex addict and a sexual predator, for risk assessment and treatment decisions. Gambling addiction is an escalating societal problem (Internet) and can start in teen years. Relationship addiction, another process addiction, often follows recovery from drug/alcohol addiction. This course explores the brain chemistry of process addictions, how to pinpoint and what psychologists look for, and the kinds of illegal activities that typically result. The suggested etiology, progress, and treatment are covered as are resources and case management challenges. Insightful material and discussion provides supervision DPOs with context for probationer behavior. Lively course.

Sexual harassment and discrimination law, including Title VII, are detailed and reviewed in this course which defines and explains sexual harassment law. Effective sexual harassment policy is reviewed, and retaliation and adverse employment examples are discussed. Participants examine mediation and investigation techniques. Case studies and scenarios are examined and scrutinized. This course demystifies the laws and provides personnel a clear picture of legal, and illegal, behavior.

Much of what staff learn, they learn on the job from years of experience doing the job well. This priceless experience should be transferred to new staff. Everyone can be a trainer on the job if given specific concrete skills and strategies. The participant receives the skills and strategies as well as the needed confidence to train peers to be more effective and confident. This is a valuable course!

This custom designed course builds on the Writing it Right course and allows specific writing skills review to actual court documents written by field officers. Using guidelines specifically created for each report and for each Department, and excellent writing samples, field officers learn more energy-efficient ways to write comprehensive and succinct court reports. Description of the Offense and Evaluation sections are emphasized. Paraphrasing techniques and processes as well as the anatomy of analytical writing is covered. Participants take away report Checklists that set the standard for performance and examples of excellent (department-approved) court reports. This is valuable training for these perishable skills. We have won awards in this vital area of skills training!

Examples of Juvenile Field Services Checklists: Dispositional Reports, Annual or Progress Reports, Intake/Jurisdictional Report, Violation of Probation Reports, etc.

Examples of Adult Field Services Checklists: Pre-Plea/P & S Report, R & S Report, Misdemeanor R & S Report, General Violation Report, Bench Warrant Pick-Up Report, Supplemental Report, Progress Report, Court Memo Report, VOP, etc.

With a trainer gifted at addressing sensitive issues in the classroom, this customized course allows work teams to identify the challenges in getting projects done effectively and on time. With the aid of a team learning instrument, teams self-assess and are able to give and receive feedback on their experience of team cohesion. Teams set goals and create Action Plans to move ahead, move forward, and increase productivity. Using advanced communication skills, individuals increase their communication competency and learn how to give feedback on ideas and processes. The result: growth in work relationships and increased productivity and morale. This is a powerful course to explore operationalizing Evidence-Based Practices.

Strength-Based Assessment for Minors and Their Families enables line staff, who work with juveniles and their families, to acquire and hone skills in communicating, interacting with, and assessing this population. Participants increase their understanding of the impact of the family on the minor as well as gain clarity about the stages of adolescent psychosocial development. Juvenile probation officers practice assessing both minors and their families for strengths as well as for risk factors; further, they self-assess their own listening styles and practice active