Voices of CPI Blog

Perspectives and insights from experts and partners.

Editor's Picks

Education
January 04, 2021 Classroom Management Techniques

Are you looking for ways to manage challenging classroom behavior? CPI can tailor classroom management programs based on your school’s needs.

General
October 15, 2020 CPI’s Top 10 De-Escalation Tips Revisited
General
October 12, 2016 7 Tips for Empathic Listening
Behavioral Health
January 27, 2021 CPI's Crisis Development Model: An Opportunity for a Positive Outcome

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Recent Blogs

Health Care
May 04, 2022 How CPI Training Supports Compliance with Workplace Violence Prevention Standards
Learn how CPI training supports compliance with requirements like the Joint Commission’s current workplace violence prevention standards.
Health Care
May 02, 2022 An Inside Look: How CPI Successfully Implements De‑escalation Training in Health Care Facilities
The impact of de-escalation training in health care facilities is often determined by how it is designed and executed. Explore CPI’s time-tested implementation process designed to maximize your ROI.
Health Care
April 22, 2022 Creating a Culture of Safety in Health Care Starts with Coordination
Just like delivering patient care, creating a culture of safety in health care requires a coordinated effort.
Dementia Care
April 15, 2022 Gardening Activities for Persons Living With Dementia
For persons living with dementia and other cognitive challenges, purposeful activities that relate to nature and gardening can be very therapeutic.
Education
April 13, 2022 Preparing for Difficult Conversations Along the Pathway to Student Success
Effective preparation for difficult conversations not only helps your students succeed; it helps you grow as an educator, too.
Education
April 01, 2022 Our Tone of Voice Tells the Truth
Our nonverbal communication signals safety or danger and our tone of voice matters more than the words we speak. This paraverbal communication is key to a successful classroom.
Health Care
March 18, 2022 18 Strategies for Building Rapport with Patients
Properly responding to agitated behavior and—better yet—preventing it, starts with building rapport with patients. This Certified Instructor shares his strategies for success.
Dementia Care
March 18, 2022 Caring for Dementia: The Where and the Who
Families seeking the best way for caring for dementia should prioritize the care providers, the quality of the care, and the options available.
Education
March 10, 2022 The Integrated Experience: Your Role in School Climate and Culture
Our behavior can influence not only our students, classrooms, and fellow staff members, but school climate and culture as well.
Education
March 09, 2022 How to Successfully Implement De-escalation Training in Schools
You’re ready to bring evidence-based de-escalation training to your school. But first, dive into the process CPI uses to ensure you are set up for success.
Education
March 07, 2022 De-escalation Strategies in the Classroom: One District’s Approach
Discover how Maryland’s largest school district went about successfully implementing de-escalation strategies in the classroom.
Education
March 03, 2022 Training that Emphasizes Safety, Consistency, and Restraints as a Last Resort
We believe that consistency in training requirements, definitions, and reporting will lead to more positive outcomes for children, families, and schools.
Dementia Care
February 21, 2022 Person-Centered Care is Key to Equality and Diversity in Dementia Care
Dementia care providers need to become more culturally aware and competent to gain the trust and respect of a diverse client population.
Dementia Care
February 18, 2022 Designing Dementia Capable Environments Workshop—EFA 2022
Dementia Care Specialists at CPI shares expert insight into how to design dementia friendly care environments at the Environments for Aging (EFA) Conference.
Health Care
February 18, 2022 10 Hospital Safety Tips for Visitors
Hospital safety tips for visitors are not a one-size-fits-all approach, but there are important choices to keep in mind when visiting a loved one in a health care setting.
Education
February 10, 2022 Educators, Practice Your Emotional Regulation Skills
Emotional regulation starts with understanding what is beneath the behavior that is creating agitation, irritation, anxiety, worry or anger.
Education
February 10, 2022 Add Classroom Design to Your Behavior Management Toolkit
An excerpt from our Creating Engaging Learning Environments eBook; bridging collaborative classroom design elements with CPI behavior management techniques.
Dementia Care
January 31, 2022 Living With Dementia Means Living in The Moment
Our hope for 2022 is that every person living with dementia is enabled to fulfill their potential and live with quality of life, in each moment.
Education
January 27, 2022 Unlocking the Power of Active Listening Leadership
Active listening leadership builds bridges of possibility while attending to the gaps of dissension that keep schools and organizations from thriving.
General
January 26, 2022 CPI Introduces the Certified Instructor Professional Association (CIPA)
The Professional Enrichment Series of speakers is available exclusively to CPI Certified Instructor Professional Association (CIPA) members.
Health Care
January 24, 2022 Top 5 Workplace Safety Resources for Health Care Professionals
Health care professionals will find these CPI prevention and de-escalation resources beneficial as they navigate through 2022.
Education
January 20, 2022 Caring for Students Exposed to Negative Peer Behavior
When students see negative peer behavior, don’t ignore it. Help them understand what’s behind the behavior and start creating cultures of felt safety.
Education
January 13, 2022 Support Students Who Present Challenging Behaviors
The best behavior management training not only helps educators address challenging behaviors in students; it helps the students themselves.
Education
January 06, 2022 What Makes a Resilient Educator?
A resilient educator is a critical component to student success and staff retention. Learn strategies for empowering yourself and your colleagues.
Education
December 20, 2021 Reading Resources for Teachers: Top 10 of 2021
Educators like you found these reading resources for teachers helpful this year. Download your personal copies and share the links with your fellow educators.
Dementia Care
December 17, 2021 A Holiday Message from Our Team
This holiday season, our team has a very special message to share.
Health Care
December 17, 2021 A Culture of Safety in Health Care? It Starts With Civility.
Health care environments mired in incivility will be hard-pressed to achieve a culture of safety. It takes collaboration and a commitment to change.
Education
December 16, 2021 Managing Student Behavior is About More Than You Think
Educators need to model emotional self-regulation before they can begin managing student behavior in a way that builds character and independence.
Dementia Care
December 09, 2021 Preparing the Holidays for People with Dementia
While holidays for people with dementia may not be the same as they were, knowing how to adapt traditions and celebrations can still bring joy to all.
Health Care
December 06, 2021 Hospital Security Directors: Bridging Departments for a Safer Facility
Hospital security directors are experts on workplace violence prevention, but a safe hospital requires that every department collaborate to reduce risks. This is where CPI comes in.
Education
November 22, 2021 Students Communicate Through Behavior. Are You Listening?
Once we understand that all behavior is communication, we begin to hear our students’ feelings, validate them, and manage a healthier learning environment for everyone.
Health Care
November 17, 2021 What To Do When an Agitated Patient Starts Screaming at You
Knowing how to respond to an agitated patient can mean the difference between de-escalating the situation or allowing it to escalate into a crisis.
Health Care
November 15, 2021 Stop Workplace Violence Against Health Care Workers
High-stress health care environments often lead to violence against health care workers. Training staff on de-escalation techniques can help.
Dementia Care
November 10, 2021 Serving Those Who Served: Dementia in Veterans
They served our country with honor. But when the physical and emotional toll of that service leads to dementia in veterans, it’s our turn to serve.
Education
November 09, 2021 Intuition vs. Logic: How Educators Can Keep Their Emotional Brain in Check
You can’t make rational decisions in your classroom if you are too emotional, but you need the emotional brain to rationally sort through options, too. CPI share strategies to help educators find that balance.
Behavioral Health
November 03, 2021 Support All Levels of Risk: Advanced Physical Intervention Training
Learn how CPI Advanced Physical Skills training extends beyond advanced physical interventions, providing problem-solving and decision-making skills that benefit all levels of risk.
Education
October 26, 2021 3 Ways To Turn Ultimatums Into Positive Student Interactions
Educators who know how to turn ultimatums into positive student interactions can strengthen relationships instead of challenging or damaging them.
Dementia Care
October 12, 2021 Optimizing Mental Health for those Living with Dementia and their Loved Ones
You can help those living with dementia and their loved ones “live well” by taking the time to understand and address their mental and emotional health.
Education
October 11, 2021 Beyond the Student: How Educators Can Help Alleviate Parental Anxiety
Educators are playing a key role in helping children re-acclimate to the classroom. But this year, there is a growing need for them to help alleviate parental anxiety around this transition too.
Dementia Care
September 30, 2021 Chemical Restraints in Nursing Homes: Dementia Care Specialists Responds to NY Times Article
Dementia Care Specialists responds to a news article on the over-use of chemical restraints in nursing homes and explains why person-centered care is the answer to achieving better outcomes.
Dementia Care
September 21, 2021 Help People with Dementia and Their Loved Ones Thrive
You can help people with dementia by offering care, service and support that addresses the individual’s personhood as well as the needs of their loved ones.
Education
September 16, 2021 Three Strategies for Creating Positive Classroom Routines
Teachers who relentlessly model consistent positive classroom routines can help eliminate anxiety, insecurity, and challenging behaviors in their students.
Dementia Care
September 15, 2021 Understanding and Responding to Dementia Related Distress Behaviors
Preventing or reducing the incidences of distress behaviors in people living with dementia starts by successfully identifying the triggers.
Education
September 14, 2021 CPI Training Helped Me Address Student Trauma
Teachers have an important role to play in dealing with student trauma. CPI training can help you make a lasting, positive impact in children’s lives.
Dementia Care
September 13, 2021 It’s Vital to Identify and Support Clients with Dementia in Home Care
Home care clients living with dementia, or symptom positive and not diagnosed, need their family and care team working as one to maintain quality of life.
Education
August 26, 2021 Behavior is Communication: A Deeper Dive
Educators know that behavior is communication. But do you know what’s beneath the behavior as you interact with your students all day long?
Education
August 25, 2021 Make Being Supportive Your Superpower
Being supportive of an anxious person means we take the time to understand and share their feelings in a way that is empathic and nonjudgmental.
Education
August 24, 2021 Introduce Felt Safety to Your School
Encouraging teachers and students alike to express what they need to achieve felt safety can help school leaders create cultures of belonging and connection.
Education
July 30, 2021 The Importance of Positive School Climate and Classroom Culture
A positive school climate that supports and empowers teachers and students alike can drive a range of positive outcomes that extend far beyond the classroom.
Education
July 28, 2021 What is Trauma-Informed Teaching and a Trauma-Responsive School? 
In trauma-informed teaching and a trauma-responsive school, social and emotional learning occur throughout the day, creating a culture of safety and connection.
Education
July 26, 2021 Re-creating a Learning Environment
Creating a learning environment that stresses routine, connection, and quality over quantity can rebuild emotional and physical stamina lost during the pandemic.
Education
July 13, 2021 Our Nervous Systems and Trauma-Informed Teaching
Settled adult bodies produce settled student bodies: Prioritize emotional connection as a key element of trauma-informed teaching in upcoming school years.
Dementia Care
June 28, 2021 Supporting and educating families who have loved ones with dementia in senior living
You can help family members who don’t have regular, in-person contact with a loved one living with dementia feel informed and involved.
Education
June 15, 2021 Now is the Time for Teacher Self-Reflection
Reflective practice in teaching can show how you’ve responded to past successes and challenges in the classroom and help prepare you for the new school year.
Dementia Care
May 19, 2021 How Do I Earn a Dementia Care Specialization? (Part 2 of 2)
Part two of this series explores questions to ask as you explore dementia care training and a specialist credential.
Dementia Care
May 12, 2021 What is a Dementia Care Specialist? (Part 1 of 2)
Part one of this series from CPI explores a Dementia Care Specialist title and what it means to earn a Dementia Care Specialization.
Dementia Care
April 29, 2021 COVID-19 and Memory Care
The April Dementia Care Specialists blog looks back at the impact the COVID-19 pandemic had on the memory care community and highlights the heroes that rallied around long-term care centers.
Behavioral Health
April 20, 2021 The Integrated Experience and the Power of Positive Behavior
Dive into the Integrated Experience and hear from CPI staff and Certified Instructors on ways to ensure the behaviors you’re influencing are positive and calm.
Education
April 14, 2021 New CPI Program for Educators: Classroom Culture Training
CPI’s new Classroom Culture Training is for education professionals interested in fostering a positive culture within each classroom.
Behavioral Health
April 13, 2021 The Powerful Decision-Making Tool That Helps Reduce Behavioral Risk Factors
CPI’s Decision-Making MatrixSM is a powerful tool that assesses behavioral risk factors and the steps you can take to prevent, plan for, and identify crises.
Behavioral Health
April 06, 2021 Managing the Noncompliant Person
CPI’s blog explains how to deal with a noncompliant person without losing your cool or chance at compliance.
Education
March 31, 2021 How Trauma Informed Schools Help Every Student Succeed
CPI’s blog discusses how trauma-informed practices in schools can lead to a safer, more resilient student body, staff, and community.
Dementia Care
March 24, 2021 Cognitive Assessment Tools
CPI’s blog provides an introduction and overview of the Allen Cognitive Level Screen, one of the important cognitive assessment tools for dementia caregivers.
Education
March 17, 2021 How Teachers Can Help Students Be Successful
CPI’s blog provides supportive techniques teachers can apply to help students be successful during the school year.
Behavioral Health
March 03, 2021 What’s Behind the Aggression?
CPI’s blog discusses how the influence of precipitating factors can lead to aggressive behavior.
Behavioral Health
February 24, 2021 How to Avoid Power Struggles
Is there someone who constantly baits you into a power struggle? This will help you change things from negative to productive.
General
February 22, 2021 Trauma-Informed Care
To help you support individuals in your care who have experienced trauma, here are resources that can teach you more about trauma-informed care.
Dementia Care
February 17, 2021 Help for Caregivers of Dementia Patients: Person-Centered Care
CPI’s blog introduces you to person-centered care, with tips on how it provides help for caregivers of dementia patients.
February 15, 2021 Canada Work Place Violence Regulations
Education
February 10, 2021 Facing Back-to-School Anxiety
Learn the impact COVID-19 had on teachers, and how CPI’s COPING ModelSM can help guide you in future situations related to back-to-school anxiety and crisis teaching.
Dementia Care
February 03, 2021 Essential Dementia Caregiver Tips
CPI’s blog shares how a person-centered perspective can provide help for caregivers of dementia patients.
General
February 03, 2021 THINK Before You Speak, PAUSE Before You Act
Want to minimize challenging behaviors and encourage learning? This article teaches us that pausing before we act can lead to great success in the classroom.
Behavioral Health
January 27, 2021 CPI's Crisis Development Model: An Opportunity for a Positive Outcome
Learn more about CPI’s Crisis Development ModelSM including how to identify behaviors at each level and effective staff approaches to crisis behavior.
General
January 20, 2021 4 Simple Ways to Foster Meaningful Respect at Work
Cultures of caring and safety are rooted in respect. But how do you establish a common language of respect when somebody else’s definition of it might be vastly different from yours? These tips will help.
Dementia Care
January 20, 2021 Compassion Fatigue Symptoms and Strategies
CPI’s blog breaks down compassion fatigue symptoms and provides strategies for recovery.
General
January 14, 2021 Virtual Learning for a Virtual World: CPI training keeps pace with an evolving world
The need for empathic person-centered care has led CPI to launch new virtual and blended training solutions that ensure well-being for every learner.
Behavioral Health
January 13, 2021 Breaking the Stigma of Mental Health Conditions
CPI's blog helps establish a mental health awareness and provides the steps you can take to end the stigma surrounding mental health.
Dementia Care
January 12, 2021 5 Helpful Caregiving Tips for Those Living With Dementia
If you’re one of the millions of Americans who are caring for a loved one with some form of dementia, these practical tips can make daily life better for them—and for you.
Behavioral Health
January 06, 2021 Ten Reflections on Person-Centered Care
10 CPI Certified Instructors share how they bring person-centered care to life in their teaching and their work.
Education
January 04, 2021 Classroom Management Techniques
Are you looking for ways to manage challenging classroom behavior? CPI can tailor classroom management programs based on your school’s needs.
General
November 18, 2020 Tips on Effective Virtual Training
These five tips can help to ensure that your virtual training is a success!
General
November 05, 2020 Managing Distress After a Crisis
Despite common beliefs, most people are quite resilient. People seldom respond completely irrationally during any crisis.
General
October 26, 2020 Tips for Managing Stressful Interactions at the Polls
These four techniques will help you avoid or de-escalate tense situations, keep stress low, and your environment calm.
General
October 15, 2020 CPI’s Top 10 De-Escalation Tips Revisited
CPI's top ten de-escalation tips are everyday strategies for crisis prevention, and a way of seeing humanity as full of potential, and not hopelessly problematic.
Dementia Care
September 29, 2020 New Dementia Capable Care 2nd Edition
Learn about the updates to CPI’s Dementia Capable Care program, and the benefits for you and your organization.
General
August 12, 2020 Guidelines to Train Your Staff Virtually During COVID-19
Learn tips, ideas, and strategies for delivering virtual training that maximizes staff competencies.
General
March 23, 2020 Crisis Prevention Institute Update from Tony Jace, CEO
With the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) continuing to respond to the outbreak of COVID-19, we wanted to assure you that the Crisis Prevention Institute is actively monitoring developments in the ongoing spread of the coronavirus.
Retail
March 16, 2020 Verbal Intervention: 7 Effective Strategies
Get tips for safe, respectful, and effective verbal intervention.
Health Care
March 14, 2020 Responding to Abusive Patient Behavior
Discover the ten ways to defuse incidents, three pitfalls to avoid when training staff, and guidance on how to reduce the risks of restraints.
General
March 13, 2020 When Working Alone
Leverage these Prepare Training Program lone worker safety tips to keep your employees safe.
Health Care
August 28, 2019 From Care Provider to Care Receiver
I help people with brain injury rebuild their futures. But when I was diagnosed with epilepsy, I needed help rebuilding my own.
General
August 08, 2019 Lacking Support for Your Training? Look No Further
CPI leadership gives you the tips and tricks you need to gain organization buy-in and set Instructors and training up for success.
Education
July 31, 2019 What to Say to a Bully: 31 Expert Recommendations
Need to know what to say to a bully? Try these tips from 31 thought leaders in school bullying prevention.
Security
July 11, 2019 How to Boost Security & Clinical Teamwork
You don’t have to be in charge to help historically siloed departments collaborate effectively to keep everybody safer. The right tools and talking points can help you get the buy-in of your peers and drive lasting culture change.
General
July 08, 2019 Interaction and Discovery in CPI’s Prepare Training® Program
Learn a technique to make your training programs more interactive and engaging.
Education
June 23, 2019 School Safety Grants: Where to Find Them and How to Apply
Finding funds for school safety training can be tough. This blog is designed to help you find school safety grants, and how to apply for them.
Behavioral Health
June 21, 2019 Psychiatric Policy and Procedures: 4 Tips for Shifting From Institutional to Individual
Here's how offering clear, reasonable, enforceable, and positive choices can help you boost hospital safety.
Health Care
May 01, 2019 Changing Organizational Culture in Healthcare? Try This
From brain chemistry to community dynamics, choosing your words wisely has never been more important.
Retail
March 27, 2019 Considering Human Factors in Crisis Communication Plans
When an emergency happens at work, you need a solid plan in place to ensure that everyone is safe and prepared.
Human Services
January 16, 2019 A Veteran Crisis Manager Shares Her Tips for Curating Culturally Sensitive Training
Individual and cultural differences make it daunting to reach a common language of respect, caring, and safety. A veteran Certified Instructor shares her experiences working within unique cultures to facilitate care, welfare, safety, and security.
Dementia Care
December 21, 2018 Person-Centered Ways to Meet the Psychosocial Needs of the Elderly
The psychosocial needs of elderly residents in nursing homes can be better fulfilled through comprehensive person-centered care delivery—with added benefits to staff and organizational performance, too.
General
December 12, 2018 How CPI Training Made Us Confident Crisis Managers
Even the most experienced crisis managers were once first-time CPI Certified Instructors. Find out how they used their newfound skills to nurture cultures of compassionate, constructive crisis management in their workplaces.
Health Care
November 13, 2018 Rethinking Physical Restraints in the ICU: How Nurses Are Leading the Way
Physical restraints are frequently employed in the ICU setting, but are linked to an array of adverse outcomes. Nurses around the world are leading the charge to shift paradigms about this practice.
Behavioral Health
November 08, 2018 Trauma and Addiction: How to Support Lasting Recovery
Trauma and addiction are closely related—an experienced clinician shares the trauma-informed approaches that can support lasting recovery.
General
November 01, 2018 7 Key Questions Our Customers Ask About CPI Training
Investing in CPI training is an important decision—one that can have lasting benefits for your organization. Here are seven great questions we frequently hear from our customers (and the answers, of course!).
Education
September 20, 2018 What Out-of-School Suspensions Really Cost Students—and What Educators Can Do About It
In a single school year, more than 11 million days of instruction time were lost entirely due to out-of-school suspensions. Finding a solution has never been more imperative. Learn what you can do to make sustainable, positive changes in your school’s approach to behavior management.
Dementia Care
September 17, 2018 Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late to Fulfill State Dementia Care Training Regulations!
Dementia Care Specialists’ upcoming Three-Day Instructor Program in Indianapolis, IN, is just one way that memory care partners can fulfill regulatory requirements and support individuals with dementia in a more caring and constructive way.
Dementia Care
September 14, 2018 What I’ve Learned About Helping a Loved One with Dementia
Shifting your paradigm can awaken new possibilities for a positive experience in caring for a loved one with dementia. Senior Global Professional Instructor Dan Lonigro shares what he learned when he became a full-time caregiver for a parent with dementia.
Education
September 13, 2018 It’s Time to Think Globally About Ending Violence in Schools
A new UNICEF report confirms that the short-term and long-term effects of violence in schools are too great to be ignored. Learn more about five significant kinds of violence that impact students around the world, and what action you can take to help end violence in schools everywhere.
Human Services
September 10, 2018 Stay Even Safer When Conducting Off-Site Visits with These Expert Tips
If you’re visiting a client, student, or patient at home or elsewhere off-site, these newly expanded and updated tips from Senior Level Certified Instructor and clinician T.D. Loftus can help you stay safer.
General
August 09, 2018 Are You the Parent of an Adult Struggling with Addiction? Try These Tips
If you’re the parent of an adult struggling with substance abuse, these five strategies can help you care for yourself and your child in a constructive way that supports recovery.
Health Care
July 31, 2018 Debriefing: The Tool You Need to Improve Transparency and Trust
CRPs are changing the way clinical staff and those in their care interact after a crisis. Debriefing compliments a range of associated best practices by providing space to process trauma, evaluate the effectiveness of an intervention, and plan successfully for future prevention—ultimately enriching organizational cultures with person-centered values.
Health Care
July 25, 2018 Second Victims—Trauma, Treatment, and the Trouble with Tricky Terminology
As many as half of all clinical professionals will experience a traumatic patient-involved event. Sometimes referred to as “Second Victims”, is your culture of safety equipped to empower their recovery?
Health Care
July 17, 2018 How Our Security and Psychiatry Teams Improved Their Team Approach—And Patient Safety
Nurse Educator Sara Holland saw an opportunity to build a bridge between siloed departments—her quick action strengthened collaboration and dramatically improved hospital safety.
Dementia Care
July 16, 2018 Do Your Care Staff Have the Training They Need to Fulfill These CMS Requirements?
The latest CMS requirements insist that long-term care partners apply an interdisciplinary approach to person-centered care that supports an individual’s best abilities to thrive. Dementia Care Specialists has responded with a powerful new training solution and innovative, enhanced curriculum.
Dementia Care
July 06, 2018 6 Tips for Telling a Loved One It’s Time to Stop Driving
For many adults, driving is a critical part of maintaining a sense of independence and autonomy. A Dementia Care Specialists Global Professional shares her advice for broaching a conversation with a loved one about driving in a way that preserves their dignity—as well as their safety.
Education
June 26, 2018 Integration and Inclusion: 6 Steps to Student Success
To start developing an inclusive model at your school, integrate students with special education needs into mainstream learning environments. Laura Seckington shares her process for planning and developing an integrated classroom where all students can collaborate and thrive.
Health Care
June 22, 2018 Environment of Care Management—Is Your Security Plan as Strong as it Should Be?
Environment of Care standards aren’t just about compliance or accreditation—they’re the way to sustain a culture of safety for staff, patients, and visitors.
Dementia Care
June 12, 2018 How TMC Is Transforming Memory Care—With Training
After training more than 650 care partners across the country, this Dementia Capable Society Leader shared remarkable feedback.
General
May 21, 2018 What You CAN Do – Meaningful Action Matters in the Face of Violence
In the wake of yet another mass shooting, our belief is simple: every person deserves a safe and peaceful world, and each of us can play a part in making that world a reality, because no effort one person might make is too small to matter.
Education
May 17, 2018 Behavior Impacts Behavior: Diving Deeper Into Children’s Perspectives on Kindness and Caring
Review a recent survey by the Making Caring Common Project and the Cartoon Network and glean key feedback from grade schoolers about how they perceive kindness and caring—and how adults can help.
Dementia Care
April 27, 2018 When Person-Centered Care Becomes Policy
Person-centered care is no longer simply a best practice. It’s now a mandate to learn the life stories of the individuals in acute, post-acute, and long-term care settings—which means that positive outcomes are now more possible than ever.
Education
April 24, 2018 School Safety—It’s Time to Give Teachers the Training They Deserve
Educators engage directly with the next generation of citizens—so why aren’t we empowering them to do the best job they can, in the safest way possible?
Dementia Care
April 13, 2018 How We Can Help Those Living Alone With Alzheimer’s and Dementia
More than a million people with Alzheimer’s live alone in the US. It’s time to come together as a society to make sure that each and every one of them has the support they need.
General
April 09, 2018 What Are You Doing About Workplace Violence Prevention?
Workplaces are critical hubs where otherwise divergent populations intersect—which is why workplace violence prevention isn’t just about your organization, it’s about making a safer and more caring world for all people.
Behavioral Health
April 05, 2018 Want to Reduce the Risks of Restraint? Master Your Supportive Stance.
A Master Level Certified Instructor and experienced school psychologist shares a powerful story about the risks of restraint—and how we can keep ourselves and those in our care truly safe and supported during a crisis.
Human Services
March 28, 2018 Organizational Culture by Design, not Default
In human services agencies, building organizational culture with intention is particularly critical because what we model as professionals impacts our clients’ ability to meaningfully cope with the challenges that require our services.
Education
March 20, 2018 The Case for a Culture of Caring in Schools
Children are looking to adults more than ever to take a bold step forward in establishing cultures of caring and safety in their schools. Training can help cultivate lasting empathy and kindness in the community of the classroom—ultimately leading to a safer and more caring world for all of us.
Education
March 14, 2018 Restorative Practices Cultivate Caring, Empathy, and Community in Schools
Restorative practices support meaningful cultures of caring in which staff and students can connect, learn, and thrive.
Dementia Care
March 06, 2018 Geriatric Care Staff Want More Training On-Site—And It’s More Feasible Than You Think
On-site geriatric-focused education improves staff retention, supports positive outcomes for residents, and is a critical component to readying our culture to support the largest American population of elders yet.
Dementia Care
February 27, 2018 6 Ways to Advocate for Your Aging Loved One’s Health Needs
Advocating for an aging loved one can be challenging, but these simple strategies can help you stay organized and effective as liaison between elders and their care providers.
General
February 19, 2018 Does Your Training Meet OSHA’s Guidelines for Preventing Workplace Violence?
Make sure that your training process for preventing workplace violence supports a meaningful culture of safety by checking its curriculum against OSHA’s guidelines.
Education
February 06, 2018 Student Management Techniques from an Education Expert
Effective student management is rooted in experience—this veteran educator shares evidence-based strategies that really work.
General
January 29, 2018 Solid Strategies for Difficult Conversations at Work
Nobody likes to give bad news—but these pointers can help you facilitate difficult conversations at work in a professional, person-centered way.
Health Care
January 17, 2018 How Many Opportunities Are You Missing to Make Your Hospital Safer?
Some of the simplest ways to create a culture of safety are hiding in plain sight—do you know how to spot them?
Behavioral Health
January 08, 2018 Disruptive Behavior Can Be Safely Managed--These Tools Can Help
Understanding disruptive behavior can help you start an informed, actionable conversation with your staff about why ongoing training is so critical.
General
January 05, 2018 Take a Supportive Stance in Your Collegial Communication
Professional colleagues benefit from the same Empathic Listening and focused attention that we give to our clients—so why don’t we give it as generously? 
General
January 04, 2018 Conflict Resolution in the Workplace Starts With Confident Leadership
Conflict resolution in the workplace shouldn’t be avoided or feared—take the lead in promoting a caring and respectful work environment.
Dementia Care
December 08, 2017 7 Questions Every Alzheimer’s Caregiver Should Ask the Doctor
When the diagnosis is Alzheimer’s, an ongoing conversation with your loved one’s physician can help ensure person-centered, quality care.
General
December 05, 2017 5 Practical Tips for Coping with Toxic Behaviors
Guest author Anna Ciulla returns with key insights on using limit setting to heal and strengthen relationships with loved ones.
General
November 28, 2017 The Underlying Factor
One hospital’s internal debriefing memo from a fateful week in 1963 still has powerful relevance today.
General
November 21, 2017 The Surprising Science of Practicing Gratitude
Engaging in a daily practice of conscious gratitude can transform the world around you—and make a profound difference in your mental health.
Education
November 17, 2017 Making Sense of School Climate Survey Results
School climate surveys can help improve staff retention and transform student outcomes, by matching specific pain points with practical fixes.
Behavioral Health
November 13, 2017 5 Effective Tools for Coping with Traumatic Memories
Trauma is a hidden epidemic, but recovery is possible—guest blogger Anna Ciulla shares resources that support lasting healing.
Dementia Care
November 08, 2017 Peconic Landing’s Harbor South Embodies the Vision of a Dementia Capable Society
With their recent Distinguished Provider recognition, Peconic Landing’s Harbor South community exemplifies engagement and empowerment as a dementia capable society.
Health Care
October 30, 2017 Decoding Horizontal Violence in Nursing
Nurses face the greatest risk of horizontal violence at work, but this risk can be reversed with the right organization-wide training and support.
General
October 20, 2017 A Surprising Way to Help Children and Adults Harness Empathy
Nobody wants their child to be a bully, but empathy levels are dropping among youth. One mom developed a powerful exercise to help children (and adults) reconnect to their compassion.
Dementia Care
October 19, 2017 Reflections of Gratitude from the Toni Finn Dementia Symposium
Kim Warchol shares her experience attending the Toni Finn Dementia Symposium and advocating for Dementia Capable Care.
General
October 10, 2017 6 Tiny Tips for Saving the World
A CPI Global Professional Manager shares tips to mindfully make the world a better place, paired with CPI resources that can help you implement these tips into your everyday life.
Dementia Care
October 09, 2017 Beau Ridge Independent Living Earns Our Distinguished Provider Award
Beau Ridge Independent Living & Memory Care Assisted Living is the latest recipient of Dementia Care Specialists' Distinguished Provider recognition.
General
September 29, 2017 De-Escalation Tip of the Day: Allow Time for Decisions
A person’s stress rises when they feel rushed. Allowing time brings calm.
General
September 28, 2017 De-Escalation Tip of the Day: Allow Silence for Reflection
Silence can be a powerful communication tool when de-escalating an individual in crisis.
General
September 27, 2017 De-Escalation Tip of the Day: Choose Wisely What You Insist Upon
It's important to be thoughtful in deciding which rules are negotiable, and which are not.
General
September 26, 2017 De-Escalation Tip of the Day: Set Limits
Stock your toolbox with these tips, resources, and perspectives on using your CPI training at work and home. 
General
September 25, 2017 De-Escalation Tip of the Day: Ignore Challenging Questions
Redirect challenging behavior and restore focus to the issue at hand.
General
September 25, 2017 Preparation and Perspective
Be a good neighbor in times of crisis by learning how you can be a citizen responder.
General
September 22, 2017 De-Escalation Tip of the Day: Focus on Feelings
Sometimes just being present can be a powerful force of a calm in a crisis.
General
September 21, 2017 De-Escalation Tip of the Day: Avoid Overreacting
Keeping your cool in a crisis might be easier said than done, but it can facilitate real healing for a person in need.
General
September 20, 2017 De-Escalation Tip of the Day: Use Nonthreatening Nonverbals
A former prosecutor’s tip for connecting with jurors is readily adaptable to helping calm an individual in crisis.
General
September 19, 2017 De-Escalation Tip of the Day: Respect Personal Space
Defuse tension in a crisis by taking a Supportive Stance℠.
General
September 18, 2017 De-Escalation Tip of the Day: Be Empathic and Nonjudgmental
Mindful compassion can take a situation from conflict to connection.
General
September 08, 2017 Coping and Healing in a World Shaped by Crisis
Traumatic events can leave long shadows across our lives, but with resilience and courage, recovery is possible.
Education
September 07, 2017 5 Ways You Can Take a Supportive Stance in Your Classroom
With practical tips for a positive, effective approach, a seasoned instructor shares even more of her insights on integrating CPI into the special education setting.
Education
September 05, 2017 5 Strategies for a Stronger School Year
Blend CPI training and PBIS approaches for success in the classroom all year long.
General
August 21, 2017 We Asked CPI Instructors: Is Kindness Worth It?
What’s the true cost of kindness in the schedule of busy staff? CPI Certified Instructors answer.
August 09, 2017 A Safe Work Environment Starts With You
We’ve packed this post with free resources and training to help you jump-start a culture of Care, Welfare, Safety, and Security℠ at your health care facility.
Dementia Care
August 08, 2017 Stories From the Front Lines of Memory Care
Why is dementia training so critical for staff? Because it can give memory care residents a second chance at enjoying life in a real way.
General
August 07, 2017 Radiant Reflections: FlexMKE 2017
Looking back at our 2017 Instructors’ Conference, we celebrate the relationships, growth, and camaraderie that make being a Certified Instructor so meaningful.
Behavioral Health
July 20, 2017 What Steps Can You Take to Set Healthy Boundaries?
Healthy boundaries are a key component of mental health. But what are they really, and how do you establish them in your relationships?
General
July 13, 2017 Setting Limits: Solutions Beyond Words
Conflict management can be daunting, but CPI’s approach to setting limits will help you reach a positive outcome every time.
Behavioral Health
July 10, 2017 5 Easy Tips for Effective Limit Setting
Limit setting isn’t just a skill for crisis prevention; it’s a tool that can help you negotiate any challenge, big or small.
Dementia Care
July 05, 2017 Rosemary’s Face: A Portrait of Person-Centered Care
In the end, it’s what we can give that counts the most: the best quality of life possible, regardless of disease, dementia, or disability.
June 30, 2017 Get on Your Feet for Fun at FlexMKE!
In the heart of downtown, FlexMKE 2017 offers a wide range of ways to enjoy growth, relationships, and camaraderie.
Retail
June 28, 2017 Substance Abuse in the Workplace: A Person-Centered Approach
A substance abuse policy protects the development of your workplace, and demonstrates your capacity for compassionate leadership.
Dementia Care
June 22, 2017 Dementia Training for CNAs: Memory Care Can’t Happen Without It
Treating key staff as assets instead of liabilities makes them better caregivers—and reduces the high rate of turnover that plagues memory care facilities.
Dementia Care
June 14, 2017 Adventures in Animal-Assisted Memory Care
All kinds of pets have therapeutic potential when it comes to memory care, just ask me, and my traveling petting zoo.
Dementia Care
June 08, 2017 Giving Your Parents Quality Time Improves Their Quality of Life
My mom has early onset-dementia. She was there for me when I needed her most, and now it’s time for me to be there for her.
Behavioral Health
June 07, 2017 A Code Gray With a Silver Lining
A successful implementation of CPI training meant that no physical intervention was needed to de-escalate a combative patient.
Behavioral Health
June 02, 2017 Neuroplasticity and Trauma: 5 Powerful Ways to Support Recovery
New research about the brain’s ability to heal offers insights for trauma-informed care, and real hope for children and adults who have experienced trauma.
General
June 01, 2017 IACET Accreditation Ensures More Opportunities for YOU Through CPI!
CPI is pleased to announce that we are now an accredited training provider through the International Association of Continuing Education and Training (IACET)!
Health Care
May 26, 2017 A Powerful Team-Building Exercise
With this activity, your staff will see how they’re stronger collectively as they work to achieve a goal.
Health Care
May 24, 2017 The Easiest Way to Raise Your HCAHPS Scores
Try these 4 supportive strategies and watch your patient satisfaction scores soar!
Dementia Care
May 23, 2017 Activities for Dementia: How to Engage Seniors in Arts & Crafts
If you're looking for crafts for seniors with dementia, you'll love this excerpt from our Activity Planning Book!
Behavioral Health
May 19, 2017 5 Easy Tips for Effective Limit Setting
Creating a supportive environment for recovery in your family may not ultimately be up to you, but there are concrete things that anyone can do in pursuit of that goal.
Dementia Care
May 10, 2017 CMS Dementia Focused Survey: Top 10 Rules and How to Comply
With evidence-based, best-practice solutions, we can help you ensure compliance and avoid fines and citations.
Dementia Care
May 09, 2017 5 Memory Care Tips for Mother’s Day
Make Mother’s Day special for a person with dementia by taking a flexible, focused and hopeful approach to holiday traditions with these five ways to celebrate.
Human Services
May 04, 2017 If Your Job Robs Your Hope, Try This
Caring for a living is hard. Here's an incredible chance to make life easier for yourself and everyone around you.
Behavioral Health
April 26, 2017 A Candy Bar and a Handshake
Randy had no hope in his life. But when two caring people listened, they offered him a tipping point.
Behavioral Health
April 21, 2017 The Blessing of This Curse
I understand what it is to struggle every day. And I find that we're all more alike than different.
Behavioral Health
April 18, 2017 The Truth About Mental Illness
Myth: Mentally ill people are violent. Hidden truth: People with mental illness are more likely to be victims, rather than perpetrators, of violence.
General
April 14, 2017 How Working Together Stopped Our Organization From Shutting Down
What we learned through our struggle boiled down to one thing. Without it, no organization can progress.
Human Services
April 13, 2017 Mindful Practice: 12 Tips for the Busy Social Worker
These tips have worked for me, for other social workers, and anyone willing to give them a try!
Education
April 10, 2017 Welcoming Pivotal Education to the CPI Family
We have exciting news because we’re committed to helping educators and students everywhere THRIVE!
General
April 05, 2017 The Mindfulness of Community
To prevent stress from becoming overpowering, two things in my life are key.
Dementia Care
April 03, 2017 Reduce Off-Label Meds for Dementia by Modifying the Home
Off-label medications are often prescribed for agitation, sleeplessness, and depression, but they have dangerous side effects.
Education
March 30, 2017 3 Ways to Teach Kids the Importance of Teamwork
With these fun strategies, kids will absorb lessons about how to conduct themselves in team-based situations—without even realizing they’re learning!
General
March 15, 2017 How We Pulled Dad Out of Depression
Mandatory retirement sent Dad into a downward spiral. Things kept getting worse, until we took 5 steps to help him recover.
Dementia Care
March 13, 2017 How to Build a Positive Relationship With Your Client's Family
Here are three powerful ways to provide peace of mind for your client and their family.
Dementia Care
March 09, 2017 Alzheimer’s Dementia: What Is This New Term?
When a person displays these symptoms of impaired functional cognition, they are said to have Alzheimer’s dementia.
Behavioral Health
March 08, 2017 Art Therapy: An Effective Addiction Treatment Method
Art therapy is all about replacing a negative coping technique with a positive one. Here's how to use it in the addiction recovery process.
General
March 07, 2017 Your Mind Is a Garden. Your Thoughts Are the Seeds.
“Your mind is a garden. Your thoughts are the seeds. You can grow flowers or you can grow weeds.” Share this meme to spread the message of mindfulness!
Education
February 28, 2017 Come See CPI at the CEC Convention and Expo!
If you're going to the biggest special education event of the year, swing by our booth to ask questions, pick up free resources, or just say hello!
Education
February 28, 2017 The Secret Balance of How We Establish Rapport on Our School Buses
When an employee can jump in and say, “I’m CPI certified—do you need help?”, it brings a feeling of relief for the other staff member.
Behavioral Health
February 21, 2017 5 Tips for Helping a Troubled Family Member
When a family member is having problems, it can be hard to know how to help them. Try these tips to improve the situation.
Behavioral Health
February 20, 2017 What's the Likelihood of a Behavior?
A client wanted more alone time. Staff weren't sure if it was safe. Here's how we made the best choice.
General
February 17, 2017 I Am an Unfinished Circle
"I may not be perfect, nor am I complete. But I will try my earnest to keep those I meet safe from the monster inside of me."
Behavioral Health
February 07, 2017 A Surprising Way to Stay Safe From Fights
What should you do when someone strikes you? While that's a smart, practical question, there's a better one you should ask before a punch is even thrown.
Dementia Care
February 02, 2017 What’s Missing in Memory Care Facilities
One of the root causes of the problems we all seek to solve is simple in nature and vital to fix.
General
February 01, 2017 How to Handle the Health Effects of Bullying
The mental stress caused by bullying can lead to digestive issues, heart disease, and even allergies. Here's how to prevent health problems.
Health Care
January 27, 2017 Everything You Wanted to Know About Hospice Care but Were Afraid to Ask
Hospice care is an uncomfortable topic for many families. Here are some FAQs to help you understand a philosophy of care that acknowledges death while valuing life.
Education
January 26, 2017 A Surprisingly Simple Way to Get Kids Reading
A teacher sent a letter to a publishing house asking for children’s books. A week later she got a phone call asking, “Where should I back the truck up to?”
Education
January 20, 2017 How Can You Prevent School Violence in Texas?
Stay safe and keep your students safe. Here's a breakdown of a whitepaper on the resources available to you as an educator in Texas.
Dementia Care
January 19, 2017 A Proactive Approach to Avoiding Difficult Behaviors in Dementia
Telling someone they can’t do something, or talking to them in a certain tone, will only escalate an issue. Here’s how to reduce problems.
General
January 17, 2017 Debriefing Techniques: How to Use Them for Prevention
Take a deep dive into debriefing techniques, and improve staff consistency while you’re at it.
Education
January 16, 2017 How the Primal Brain Affects Behavior
What's going on when someone screams at you or gets upset? Something physiological is happening in their brain. And there are things you can do.
General
January 13, 2017 New Year, New You: 6 Ways to Get Clean
The pain of withdrawal can be horrific. But there are surprising ways to fight withdrawal and make the process as pain-free as possible.
Dementia Care
January 09, 2017 5 Tips for Designing a Dementia-Capable Memory Care Environment
Avoid pitfalls like a one-size-fits-all approach, and get expert advice on how to design a memory care facility that helps people with dementia thrive.
Dementia Care
January 05, 2017 A Therapist's Guide to Laws and Regulations in Dementia Care
Medicare denial practices are loosening. And you're more empowered than ever as a professional by the National Alzheimer's Project Act and the IMPACT Act.
Dementia Care
January 04, 2017 Dementia Training Urgency
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, there are approximately 5.4 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease (AD).
Dementia Care
December 27, 2016 Learn How to Design a Dementia-Friendly Living Space
Are you ready to raise the standard for memory care? Join dementia expert Sharon Host at the EFA Conference this February!
Dementia Care
December 16, 2016 Music and Dementia Expert Roundup
Music and Dementia: Music has the power to evoke the past for someone with dementia, and lift their heart with joy.
Behavioral Health
December 15, 2016 When a Cry for Help Is Hidden Behind Anger: 5 Ways to Help Someone Recover From Addiction
The brain of someone struggling with addiction is hardwired to undermine good judgment. But there are ways you can help them on the path to healing.
Dementia Care
December 14, 2016 Top 10 Resources for Dementia Caregivers
Dementia doesn't have to equal suffering. Here are this year's top resources to help you be the best tool for making life better for someone with dementia.
Education
December 14, 2016 Top 10 Resources for Educators
Whether you're looking to reduce class disruptions or just trying to get through the day, this year's top resources can help YOU and your students thrive!
General
December 14, 2016 Top 10 Resources for Crisis Prevention
Do you face serious problems that seem like they can't be reduced? Check out our most popular resources of 2016 to help you make things better.
Health Care
December 13, 2016 I Advocate for Restraint Reduction. Then My Sister Was Put in Restraints.
When what you fight for in your work becomes a battle in your personal life, your mission hits home hard.
Dementia Care
December 13, 2016 How Will the IMPACT Act Impact Your Dementia Care Community?
Find out how you can meet the requirements and make life better for your residents and their families.
General
December 09, 2016 What Inspires Me About My Job: A Company With a Purpose
From a vibrant, Red-Bull-chugging CEO to a mission that changes lives, I see a company that's driven by meaning, passion, and a belief in what we do.
General
December 02, 2016 The Road to Rational Detachment
An exciting trip I took this year amplified my appreciation for the concept of Rational Detachment.
Behavioral Health
December 01, 2016 Your Ultimate Gift Guide for the Kid With Asperger’s in Your Life
Shopping is easy with these 7 tips, plus loads of insight into the Aspie world!
General
November 21, 2016 Strategies for Parents to Cope With Children’s Difficult Behavior
Parents, you are not alone! There are ways to handle the stress and make things better when your child is displaying difficult behaviors.
Behavioral Health
November 04, 2016 3 Keys to Help Staff Cope With Secondary Trauma
Hearing the shocking stories of our clients can have a devastating effect, especially over time. These keys can be the antidotes.
Dementia Care
October 31, 2016 The Medicare IMPACT Act and Dementia Care
With Dementia Capable Care, you can meet the challenges of the CMS Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Act, or the IMPACT Act.
Education
October 26, 2016 Emotional Self Regulation: Techniques for Teaching
Improve learning and life by teaching emotional self regulation skills.
General
October 24, 2016 The Skills That Saved Us on Southwest Flight 201
I was in the middle of the plane when a man started shouting and moving aggressively up the cabin.
Dementia Care
October 18, 2016 How Therapy in Home Health Helps Families With Dementia
When family members struggle to keep their loved ones at home, trained therapists can help in many ways.
General
October 14, 2016 The Terrible Things That Happen Without Compassion
Pain tries to tell us things. Here's why we need to listen.
General
October 12, 2016 CPI Is Not a Self-Defense Class
Sometimes your participants will want to release their inner ninja. But that's not what CPI is about.
General
October 12, 2016 7 Tips for Empathic Listening
Sometimes people simply need to be heard. Here’s how you can show them your compassion and empathy by listening.
General
October 03, 2016 The Value of Frequent Training
When you renew your learning in fresh new ways, you prevent training drift and build stronger skills.
Behavioral Health
September 30, 2016 How to Stay Safe During Home Visits
It can be scary being alone on someone else's turf. Try these 15 tips to practice prevention and stay safe.
Human Services
September 19, 2016 One Thing We Forget When We Care for a Living
Human services work works with humans. And let’s admit it: We aren’t the easiest species to get along with.
General
September 09, 2016 When Domestic Violence Intersects With Your Workplace
Domestic violence can spill over into the workplace, but you can prevent and respond to incidents—and meet victims' needs.
General
September 08, 2016 5 Things You Need to Know About Nonviolent Crisis Intervention® Training
What if you could deconstruct the chaos of crisis and defuse, rather than escalate, a situation?
General
September 07, 2016 Ordinary Heroes: Honoring the 15th Anniversary of 9/11
When an announcement over the loudspeaker urged people to stay at their desks, Rick Rescorla grabbed his bullhorn and walkie-talkie and saved 2,700 people.
Dementia Care
August 31, 2016 Improving Assisted Living for Residents With Dementia: Two Solutions
Too often, residents with Alzheimer's or dementia are not identified or treated appropriately. But the key for success can be turned in two ways.
Behavioral Health
August 24, 2016 4 Calming Techniques for Kids and Adults
The kids in this video explain how they pause and curb their negative emotions. This is something both kids and adults can do to find a place of calm.
General
August 05, 2016 Why Good Crisis Prevention Training Is Paramount
Behavioral health intervention specialist D.C. Foster explains how training builds skills for using proportionate interventions.
Education
July 29, 2016 A Surprising Way to Make This School Year More Productive
For more success, for more students, more of the time, you may find answers by asking an unexpected question.
General
July 28, 2016 3 Ways to Stop Chaos and Start Respect
What if you could turn on the news and see less hate? We’re all in this together. We need one another.
Dementia Care
July 22, 2016 “I Want to Go Home!” What Elopement and Wandering Mean for Individuals With Dementia
What should you do when someone with dementia tries to head out? Use these tips for prevention and to understand where the person is really trying to go.
General
July 15, 2016 Does Staff Training Prevent Harassment?
Training is essential to stop harassment. Here's what it needs to be effective.
Education
July 12, 2016 5 Ways to Improve Relationships With Educational Assistants & Paraprofessionals
Teachers, here's how to develop rapport with assistants and empower them to help your students learn both academically and behaviorally.
Dementia Care
July 11, 2016 A Caregiver's Guide: Maximizing Mealtime for People With Dementia
Try these tips from a registered dietitian (and make her nutritious chocolate pudding!) to help someone with dementia enjoy mealtime again.
Dementia Care
July 08, 2016 Preventing Falls for a Person With Dementia
Whether in a family home or a care facility, falls must - and can - be prevented. Learn how from an OT with special skills in dementia care.
Dementia Care
July 06, 2016 Validation Therapy: Should You Enter Your Client’s World and Agree With Their Reality?
A man dressed in his best suit to meet his sister when he was reminded that she was dead. This forever changed how I relate to people with dementia.
Dementia Care
July 01, 2016 What Is the Allen Cognitive Disabilities Model?
The Allen Cognitive Disabilities Model helps improve quality of life for persons with dementia by finding things they can do at every stage of the disease.
Education
June 27, 2016 The Use of Touch: Haptics & Students With Special Needs
Haptics can send different messages in different situations. When is hands-on OK, and when is hands-off the best choice?
Behavioral Health
June 24, 2016 How Names and Labels Affect Patient Care
Labeling patients as borderlines, schizophrenics, crazies, and nuts shows little compassion and minimizes how a patient is a person who needs our help.
General
June 23, 2016 How These 3 C’s May Escalate a Situation With Someone in Crisis
If you do something for one of these three reasons, you're not only being motivated by the wrong approach. You're at risk of making the situation explode.
Education
June 20, 2016 10 Behavior Management Strategies for Educational Assistants & Paraprofessionals
With these strategies, you'll build a go-to tool kit for handling and preventing behavior problems.
Education
June 17, 2016 How Teachers Create Personal Learning Networks on Social Media
Find out how to create a personal learning network on social media to connect with the latest resources and news about education.
General
June 15, 2016 The Benefits of the Prepare Training Program
Do you know about all the benefits we offer Instructors, and how these perks can help you and your colleagues and clients stay safe?
General
June 14, 2016 The Difference Between School Bullying and Workplace Bullying
There's a difference between why kids and adults bully, and the two motivations actually boil down to the same thing.
Education
June 13, 2016 Sensory Activities: Celebrate Summer Outdoors
5 fun sensory activities for helping kids with autism improve their cognitive and problem-solving abilities.
Dementia Care
June 13, 2016 Dementia and Driving
Taking away the car keys is tough for families and distressing for a person with dementia. Here are facts and tips to help.
General
June 10, 2016 How the Element of Surprise Helps You Conduct Staff Trainings
Try this activity when you're teaching your colleagues about anxiety and crisis development.
Behavioral Health
June 09, 2016 Our Results With CPI: Restraint Reduction and Client Empowerment
Restraint use has dropped by over 80%. I'm also very happy about what's been happening with at least 10 out of 16 clients.
General
June 01, 2016 Behavioral Strategies When Confronted With a Weapon
Read and share these simple tips on what to do if you're confronted with a weapon.
Education
May 19, 2016 6 Ways to Spend Your School’s Year-End Budget Wisely
Your fiscal year may wrap up on June 30, but you have time to unwrap smart safety tools for your school!
Education
May 15, 2016 School Safety: Strategies for Educators
The best school safety measures are simple, effective, low-cost and no-cost strategies you can put to use right away.
Education
May 13, 2016 Classroom Management Strategies for Educators
Need classroom management plans that work? Three veteran teachers discuss strategies you can use to stop taking the bait and start streamlining your time.
General
May 11, 2016 Crisis Response Training: Develop a Team & Procedures With These Resources
This staff development program and free checklist will help you meet your crisis response training needs.
Dementia Care
May 10, 2016 12 Ways to Create an Empowering Dementia Environment
Here's how to help someone with dementia feel in control of their life and valued as a person with a history.
General
May 09, 2016 Try This Exercise in Your Next Crisis Prevention Training
This is a good team builder, and staff tell me it's enormously helpful for showing the value of debriefing and prevention.
Education
May 06, 2016 What Crisis Prevention Trainees Learned From a Mock Car Crash
As the emergency vehicles arrived on the scene, our trainees didn't know what to expect - not what they learned on Day 2 of training.
Education
May 05, 2016 10 Tips for Defusing Problem Behavior
Find out the best response for defusing behaviors before a spark can become a fire.
Education
May 04, 2016 Restraint Reduction With Positive Behavior Supports and CPI Training
With weekly training, we've dramatically reduced physical restraint. We've also gone from 100 lost workdays last year to just one this year.
Education
April 29, 2016 7 Strategies for Foster Parents
Whether a placement is successful depends on a lot of factors. Use these strategies in your compassionate goal to change a child's life for the better.
Human Services
April 28, 2016 Helping Children Cope With Traumatic Events
Do you support kids who cope with traumatic events? Use these caring strategies to help them build resilience and heal.
Dementia Care
April 25, 2016 The Glass Is Half Full for Dementia Care
See what we've been up to as we teach why there's hope for individuals, families, and caregivers on the dementia journey.
General
April 21, 2016 What IBM's Watson Thinks About CPI Certified Instructors
Watson, a program that analyzes writing styles, uncovered some intriguing trends about our customers’ personalities.
Dementia Care
April 20, 2016 5 Ways to Celebrate Your Superstar Profession This OT Month
OTs have unique skills to help people with dementia and their families live better lives. Celebrate with these tips.
General
April 20, 2016 How to Set Limits
Setting limits is one of the most powerful tools to promote positive behavior change for your clients, students, residents, patients, etc.
General
April 18, 2016 What Is #CWSS and How Can It Help You at Work?
This is so much more than four words. Find out what’s at the heart of what you and CPI do.
Human Services
April 14, 2016 If Only We Listen, They Will Be Heard
This poem shows how essential it is to care with compassion and patience. I hope it brings bright light to you and our elders.
General
April 07, 2016 Neurocounseling and Trauma
Bridging the brain and behavior, neurocounseling helps create new neural pathways for clients to cope and heal.
Behavioral Health
April 05, 2016 Smart Online Tips for Parents of Children With Special Needs
Nothing matters more than protecting your child in the digital sphere and the real world. Use these tips for a safe online experience for your special child
Dementia Care
March 30, 2016 3 Simple Ways to Improve Dementia Care Immediately
If you haven't had training, here's what you can do right now to make a difference in someone's life.
Behavioral Health
March 30, 2016 An Open Letter to a Teacher From a Mom of a Child With Asperger's
Thank you for being so open-hearted with my child! It means so much knowing my son is being cared for as I hoped. It helps more than you can even imagine.
Education
March 28, 2016 How to Shine a Light on Autism in Your School
What do Play-Doh, light bulbs, and Talk to Me have in common? Try these tools for embracing differences during Autism Awareness Month!
Dementia Care
March 25, 2016 Precipitating Factors Associated With Alzheimer’s and Dementia
Because of the nature of Alzheimer’s, working with this population requires compassionate caregivers who are educated about psychopathology.
Behavioral Health
March 18, 2016 8 Ways to Help a Child on the Autism Spectrum
When a child with autism is struggling, try these strategies to understand what they need and how to support them with empathy and respect.
General
March 17, 2016 Prevention Before Intervention: 3 Ways to De-Escalate
Master these three communication skills and you can prevent injuries and violence with your clientele.
General
March 15, 2016 Personal Resilience: How to Be Resilient When You’re a Caregiver
To stay strong in a crisis (and bounce back when it's over), flex your seven personal resilience muscles.
General
March 09, 2016 10 Techniques for Teaching Sensitive Topics in CPI Training
Whether you're educating staff on workplace bullying issues, mental illness, or something else, you can steer resistance toward constructive learning.
Health Care
March 09, 2016 A Pound of Prevention: Putting the P in CPI
The way we use CPI, we get in front of potential issues. In our hospital, it's about prevention in a great many ways.
Human Services
February 26, 2016 Catfishing: Teens Falling for Fake Online Identities
It is shocking the extent some teens will go to - catfishing fake online personas and often emotionally harming someone else.
Education
February 24, 2016 How to Manage Passive-Aggressive Behavior in Your Classroom
There are different levels of passive-aggressive behavior, and strategies for dealing with each. Try these keys to getting your classroom under control.
Education
February 23, 2016 What It Will Take to Reduce Restraint and Seclusion in Wisconsin Schools
An alarming number of students are being restrained or secluded in schools. But together we can make all our schools, students, and staff safer.
General
February 22, 2016 Here’s How You Can Manage Your Anger
We’ve all had moments when anger sparked regrettable reactions. Sometimes I buried my anger and brushed off issues until they became too much.
Education
February 18, 2016 Professional Development for Teachers: Now Every Educator Can Get CPI Training
Ever been through such effective professional development for teachers that you wanted to share it with every educator you know? Now you can!
General
February 15, 2016 3 Ways to Implement Training Now So You Don’t Pay Big Later
Picture you and your colleagues and clients feeling safer, physically and emotionally. Now try these tips to make your training program work for you.
Behavioral Health
February 11, 2016 Trauma-Informed Care in Crisis Work
Years ago, the way we thought about mental illness could do more harm than good. That's changing with trauma-informed care.
General
February 08, 2016 What Audi's Super Bowl Commercial Says About Person-Centered Care
A man sits alone and disenchanted. What his son does next rockets him out of despondency and back to feeling purpose.
Dementia Care
February 02, 2016 The Most Valuable Lessons I've Learned Were From a Dementia Patient
As an experienced OT, the most valuable lessons I've learned were not from my years of formal education. They were from patients like Karl.
Behavioral Health
January 28, 2016 How I Calmed an Upset Patient and Prevented a Bad Situation From Getting Worse
A man was yelling at staff, refusing to get out of the transport van. What I did isn’t typical in facilities like ours, but it calmed the situation down.
General
January 22, 2016 Team Intervention Strategies: How to Help Yourself and Others Stay Safe
"I can handle this on my own." Ever thought that - and then regretted it? Find out why you need team intervention strategies, and get tips for success.
Education
January 21, 2016 Special Education Strategies for General Education Teachers: Crossing the Divide
Something happened when I found myself in front of 40 special and general education professionals. We started breaking down walls.
General
January 20, 2016 How We Keep Experienced Hospital Workers Engaged in Training
How do you teach staff who say training doesn't work? This veteran Instructor has four tips for showing staff how CPI works in real life.
General
January 18, 2016 A 3-Step Response Strategy for Any Difficult Question
Whether someone's trying to pull you into a power struggle or they're just looking for information, take these steps to make your response a breeze.
General
January 11, 2016 “I Still Matter!” 4 Stories About Empathy
He didn't need my pity, just my respect. Here's how I erased the “in” from “invisible” and valued someone different from me.
General
January 08, 2016 What Our Customers Say About CPI Training Enhancements
We want you to have every strategy to manage and PREVENT a crisis. Here's what Certified Instructors say about the enhancements we've made to help you.
Security
January 07, 2016 Get Law Enforcement In-Service Training Hours With CPI Training
You can earn 26 training hours through boards such as the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards.
Behavioral Health
January 04, 2016 7 Tips to Help With Context Blindness and Autism
When someone has context blindness, they have trouble responding to more than one thing at a time. When others don't understand this, here's how to help.
General
December 23, 2015 Is the Internet Getting Worse for Our Kids?
We decided not to take this dark view of the Internet lying down. Here's how we can build a safe and positive Internet for children and teens.
Education
December 22, 2015 Secrets From a Behavior Intervention Pro: How to Get Your Students to Cooperate
I've developed a knack for getting kids to actually listen and cooperate with my directives. Here's what works.
Dementia Care
December 21, 2015 The Dementia Stages: A Care Roadmap
Discover how to identify the four dementia stages. It's like having a care roadmap to guide you with clarity.
Education
December 18, 2015 How to Talk a Student Down From Violence
A 10-year-old boy is threatening to kill everyone in the room. What this school safety assistant does next might surprise you, and it prevents harm.
Dementia Care
December 15, 2015 Making Wisconsin a Dementia Capable State
As advocates for people with dementia, their families, and their care partners, we give testimony to a legislative task force on Alzheimer’s and dementia.
General
December 10, 2015 How Our Training Model Improves Staff Retention and Client Outcomes
Our co-creative model improves staff satisfaction and empowers our clients to be part of the solution to the many traumas they face.
Education
December 10, 2015 Kansas School District Accepts Rachel’s Challenge to Reduce Bullying
When a Kansas school district needed to decide how to spend donated funds, one principal suggested a bullying reduction program to benefit all students.
Health Care
December 10, 2015 How We De-Escalate Aggressive Individuals in Our Healthcare Setting
Trouble calls can turn into stand-offs. Here are the steps I’ve learned from years of settling situations as a security captain in our psychiatric facility.
Education
December 03, 2015 It’s Time to Teach (and Learn!) Effective Classroom Management Strategies
Learn these classroom management strategies to support students with special needs, improve test scores, expand parental support, and reduce disruptions.
Dementia Care
December 02, 2015 How to Choose a Gift for Someone With Dementia
Loved ones with dementia can and should be part of the celebration. Here are two kinds of gifts you can give, plus tips for giving the best one: your time.
Dementia Care
December 02, 2015 Therapeutic Use of Self: How to Facilitate Positive Behaviors in Someone With Dementia
Dealing with difficult behaviors? Try the therapeutic use of self to help someone make positive behavior change.
Behavioral Health
November 23, 2015 How to Navigate the Holidays With Someone on the Autism Spectrum
Weird food. Loud noise. The holidays can overwhelm anyone on the spectrum. Try these tips to make your festivities less stressful and more fun for everyone.
Dementia Care
November 23, 2015 Providing Person-Centered Dementia Care for Our Veterans
After we trained staff across the board on our campus, even a resident who seemed to have no ability to function responded to dementia-capable techniques.
General
November 20, 2015 Managing Workplace Depression and Mental Health
While attitudes and practices at work can contribute to mental health problems, your workplace can contribute constructively to mental wellness. Here's how.
Dementia Care
November 20, 2015 VA Community Living Centers Awarded for Dementia Capable Care
“By interacting on a deeper level with our veterans, we learned that a man who 'wandered' into everyone’s room had been a mailman.”
Education
November 17, 2015 How (and Why) to Talk to Teens About Digital Citizenship
Sexting. Cyberbullying. These five digital citizenship conversation starters can get kids thinking about their digital footprint.
General
November 16, 2015 How to Manage Combative Alzheimer's Behavior Without Drugs
How can you prevent Mr. Smith from acting out violently during showers? Use this protocol to discover WHY he gets violent - and to plan your interventions.
General
November 12, 2015 A Car Almost Hit Me, and I Realized THIS
I grumbled to myself about how people are careless jerks...until I remembered that we all are, sometimes - but there's a way for us not to be.
Dementia Care
November 10, 2015 How to Establish Dementia Care Best Practices and Why They Matter
Want to be a leader in memory care? These principles will help you exceed industry standards, optimize resident quality of life, and strengthen staff skills
Education
November 10, 2015 Research Scientist Dr. Dorothy Espelage Explains Five School Bullying Misperceptions
Educational psychologist Dr. Dorothy Espelage helps raise awareness about the realities of school bullying by examining five common misperceptions.
Behavioral Health
November 09, 2015 How Therapeutic Writing Can Help Crisis Workers
Each day as a psych nurse I was exposed to other people’s pain. One night, unable to sleep, I discovered what helped me process my feelings about tragedy.
Education
November 04, 2015 Don't Let Your School Face Restraint Lawsuits
How does your school measure up? It’s not too late to do a check-up and make improvements. Policies and procedures are a start—but you need more than that.
Health Care
November 03, 2015 Top 5 Tips for Preventing Falls for Seniors
Try these five simple steps to reduce the chance of a patient falling.
Dementia Care
November 02, 2015 Take off the Cape: The Dual Role of Care Partner and Loved One Can Be Too Much, Even for a Superhero
Asking for help when you're a caregiver is in everyone's best interest. You can’t properly help someone else unless you take care of yourself too.
General
November 02, 2015 College Credit Now Available for Nonviolent Crisis Intervention® Instructors
All Certified Instructors can now apply for undergraduate or graduate college credits through Augustana University of South Dakota!
Human Services
October 21, 2015 9 Things Someone in Your Care Wants You to Know
When you choose to serve others, that desire to help fellow human beings makes you a very special person. This is a message of gratitude for all you do.
Education
October 21, 2015 What to Say to Stop Someone From Bullying
How do you help someone realize the harm they're causing? Start with one very important first step.
Education
October 20, 2015 Practice What You Preach: Stop Bullying for Kids AND Adults!
We will undo the hard work we put into educating our children on this very important matter if we fail to address bullying as an adult issue too.
Education
October 16, 2015 How We Should Prevent School Shootings and Other Acts of Terror
If violence is the language of the unheard, and all behavior is communication, let us all hear each other when we are simply anxious.
Behavioral Health
October 15, 2015 12 Ways to Help a Developmentally Traumatized Child
When a kid with trauma explodes like the Tasmanian Devil, here's what to say and do to get them back on track.
Education
October 05, 2015 Classic Classroom Management Book Turns 50
An evolving classic, Conflict in the Classroom helps teachers handle disruptive behavior safely.
Behavioral Health
October 01, 2015 The Amazing Abilities of Autism Service Dogs
When Teddy came into my life, I didn't know what to expect. But he has helped me in many positive ways.
Behavioral Health
September 30, 2015 ASD: A Catalyst for Creativity
Bypassing socially ingrained responses opens more paths to one-of-a-kind thinking when it comes to autism.
Education
September 24, 2015 Teach Kids These 3 Ways to Stop Bullying
Give kids these three courageous options and they'll know what to do when they see someone being hurt.
Dementia Care
September 23, 2015 Miss Colorado on Why You’re Way More Than “Just a Nurse”
Watch RN Kelley Johnson's powerful message about how nurses are the heart of care and how she reached a patient with kindness and skill.
Health Care
September 17, 2015 How Crisis Intervention Training Helped a Hospital Reduce Workplace Violence
This study shows that putting just 2% of payroll toward crisis prevention training can reduce the potential for hospital workplace violence by 23%. 
Behavioral Health
September 14, 2015 Tales From the Trauma Unit! Psychiatric Nurse Featured on Unrestrained, the CPI Podcast
Psychiatric nurse Laurie Barkin reveals the trauma and remarkable endurance of the patients who populate her award-winning 2011 book, The Comfort Garden.
Health Care
September 14, 2015 Setting Limits at San Francisco General Hospital
Health care professionals often have to set limits on patient behavior, but what about when they feel compelled to set limits on other staff members?
Behavioral Health
September 03, 2015 How to Help Someone Who Has a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
Anxiety. Flying off the handle. Not understanding cause-and-effect. FASD is an invisible disability with a host of symptoms. Here are strategies to help.
Dementia Care
August 28, 2015 Use This Life Story Questionnaire for More Person-Centered Dementia Care
The Life Story Questionnaire gives you a key to person-centered dementia care: understanding a person’s preferences, values, and motivation in life.
Dementia Care
August 27, 2015 Does Your Dementia Care Facility Meet These Standards?
Families and regulations are demanding more training, better activities, and dementia-friendly design. You can exceed standards and be a care leader.
Health Care
August 26, 2015 How Hospital Staff in China Are Preventing Healthcare Violence
Staff in Hong Kong and Beijing are learning strategies to handle (and PREVENT!) explosive situations.
Dementia Care
August 25, 2015 How to Meet the Massachusetts Dementia Care Regulations
Does your community meet these standards for training, person-centered activities, and a dementia-friendly environment?
Education
August 24, 2015 Your Back-to-School Special Ed Classroom Checklist
Try these seven tips from Laura Merkle to get your special education program started on the right foot!
Education
August 20, 2015 What’s the Difference Between an Individualized Education Plan and a 504 Plan?
These two types of supports can be tough to unravel, especially when you're already overwhelmed. Here's some help.
General
August 14, 2015 How 9 People React to This Hate Message Is Incredible
How would you feel if you read a message like this? See how witnessing hate can result in compassion.
Education
August 13, 2015 4th Graders’ Response to Autism May Surprise You
When fourth graders were asked to write anonymous questions about autism to classmates on the spectrum, the similarity of their concerns surprised experts.
Dementia Care
August 05, 2015 Study Suggests Watching Too Much TV Raises Risk of Alzheimer's
Sedentary lifestyles and social isolation seem to speed decline of cognitive function, researchers say.
Dementia Care
July 29, 2015 The Dementia Talking
How do you cope with guilt when your loved one is in care? Beth Britton, whose dad had vascular dementia, has ideas to help.
Education
July 29, 2015 4 Powerful Ways to Reduce Racism and Discrimination in Schools
Here's how to challenge the assumptions, biases, and structures of racism and discrimination.
Education
July 28, 2015 Boys Don't Tell on Sugar-and-Spice-but-Not-So-Nice Girl Bullies
Girls bullying boys isn't talked about much, but it's still a problem. And there are solutions you can implement in any setting.
General
July 22, 2015 When a Hero Retires, His Legacy Lives On
Don Rolfe, an education specialist in Texas, dedicated his career to helping students succeed.
General
July 06, 2015 Tips for Facilitating Interactive Activities and Lectures
When participants are uncomfortable or too shy to participate, you might wonder if you can simply demonstrate activities. Does this work?
General
June 26, 2015 The Hits, the Hurricane, and the Integrated Experience: R&B Great Irma Thomas Talks to CPI
Tune in to this interview with R&B legend Irma Thomas about her history, music, and her experience during and after Hurricane Katrina.
Behavioral Health
June 26, 2015 How Music Therapy Helped My Sons on the Autism Spectrum
Your child is diagnosed with autism. Where do you go from here? Watch and read this for a story about the power of music and hope!
General
June 25, 2015 This Risk Assessment Tool Helps You Deal With Difficult Behavior Better Than Ever
When someone threatens harm, the Decision-Making Matrix gives you even more ability to choose the safest intervention and make the best choice.
General
June 25, 2015 Before You Help, Think About This
If you want to provide true person-centered care, here’s what you need to consider first to keep from sounding judgmental.
Dementia Care
June 19, 2015 What's the Difference Between Dementia and Delirium?
These two different illnesses often coexist. Here are the details, plus strategies for helping someone who has one or both.
Dementia Care
June 16, 2015 Glacier Hills Senior Living Earns Our Distinguished Provider Award
Our latest winners build their care around each resident's individuality, preferences, and abilities.
Dementia Care
June 16, 2015 Music Soothes Last Moments for Father With Dementia
This interview tells a touching story about a “procedural memory” response between Tom and his son, Tim, who sang his father a song as he lay dying.
Dementia Care
June 15, 2015 How to Reduce Transfer Trauma for a Person With Dementia
Transfer trauma is a term used to describe the stress that an individual with dementia may experience when changing living environments.
General
June 11, 2015 The Savvy Professional’s Checklist for Handling Crisis Situations
Do you need go-to strategies for handling unexpected events? The first thing to do is to prepare, and this Crisis Response Planning Checklist can help.
Education
June 11, 2015 10 Ways to Help Reduce Bullying in Schools
From humiliation to death threats, school bullying has become an epidemic. But there are steps you can take to prevent it—and STOP it.
Dementia Care
June 10, 2015 How OTs Help People With Dementia Live to Their Fullest Potential
It’s natural to feel hopeless about a condition that doesn’t “get better.” Yet there's something hopeful that more people need to know.
Behavioral Health
June 09, 2015 What Swimming Can Do When You Have Asperger's
Swimming has changed my life in so many positive ways. I’m physically stronger, but I know I’m mentally stronger as well.
General
May 29, 2015 Want to Be the Envy of Everyone Around You?
Whether you're a big kid or a little kid, there's always that one thing everyone seems to covet. Now we've got something you won't want to miss!
Dementia Care
May 28, 2015 Can You Win at a Video Game That Simulates Alzheimer’s/Dementia?
A new video game called Forget-Me-Knot aims to increase dementia awareness by immersing players in an unfamiliar environment meant to simulate Alzheimer’s.
Education
May 26, 2015 The Kids in This Video Explain How They Calm Down When They're Upset
These kindergartners have a go-to strategy we could all use when we get stressed, angry, or worked up!
Dementia Care
May 26, 2015 6 Things To Know About Someone With Dementia
I can still communicate. I can't talk the way I used to, but I can still communicate. Be patient as I try. This will help me feel connected.
Education
May 22, 2015 Should All Schools Be Trauma-Informed?
A class-action lawsuit, filed on behalf of teachers and students in Compton, might bring more sensitivity to all schools - for all students.
Dementia Care
May 20, 2015 Greendale, WI Memory Care Café Serves Up Community Support
Ferch’s Malt Shoppe & Grille has recently joined other restaurants on the forefront of respect for those with dementia by becoming a memory café.
General
May 15, 2015 CPI Delivers! To All Corners of the World
As I stood alongside that becalmed Arctic Sea, I couldn't help but be amazed: Look how far our message has spread.
Human Services
May 15, 2015 Two Things Children Need to Succeed in Life
At-risk groups, poverty, abuse. When a child has odds stacked against her how can we help her achieve a meaningful life? Jill Roche provides two key ideas.
Security
May 14, 2015 Why We Need to Debrief
I know how tired you sometimes feel. And that was after a day when no one tried to kill me or kill someone else in front of me.
General
May 12, 2015 What Does CPI Training REALLY Help You Do?
There's some mystery, and different understandings. But there's one big thing we strive to help you do in your work every day.
Retail
May 06, 2015 12 FAQs About CPI’s Prepare Training® Program
How can the Prepare Training® program help you at work? Check out these FAQs and find out!
Education
May 04, 2015 My Top 10 Ed Tools for Kids With Autism
Special educator Laura Merkle shares her favorite ASD resources - from iPad apps to sensory toys to AugComm tools and more.
Education
April 22, 2015 What I Learned as an OT at the Council for Exceptional Children Conference
I often attend conferences for OTs and other health care professionals, but what I found at this education-focused opportunity was an eye-opening surprise.
General
April 21, 2015 Beating the Goldfish: 4 Strategies for Keeping Your Learners’ Attention
8 seconds. I have 8 seconds to get your attention. Goldfish have 9-second attention spans, and ours average 8 seconds. But we can trump 'em and FOCUS!
Dementia Care
April 21, 2015 Sleep Disturbances in Alzheimer's Are All Too Common
Older adults with Alzheimer's are prone to sleep disturbances. How do you treat without causing adverse effects?
Dementia Care
April 14, 2015 How the Colonnade Community Is Winning at Senior Care
What's the reward for making life better for seniors? For the Colonnade Senior Living community there are actually three rewards.
General
April 06, 2015 New Online Course! The Angry Smile
Do you work with passive-aggressive kids? Do you need to sharpen your intervention skills? This quick and informative course can help!
Dementia Care
April 06, 2015 “They Stole My Necklace!” How Do You Deal With Dementia?
Sometimes a complaint or an accusation isn't the real issue. It might be just a CLUE to the real issue, and maybe even a key to resolving the problem.
Dementia Care
April 02, 2015 10 Essential Self-Care Tips for Dementia Caregivers
Caregiving can be physically and emotionally depleting, but there are ways to maintain your health and rejuvenate your spirit.
Behavioral Health
March 26, 2015 What's It Like to Have a Child With Autism?
"If you saw her on a good day, you'd maybe think she was a little shy and kooky. You'll never see her on a bad day as she can't leave the house."
General
March 25, 2015 4 Things My New Puppy Taught Me About Human Behavior
As odd as it might sound, some of the principles we teach at CPI also apply to others in the animal kingdom, including dogs!
Security
March 18, 2015 The Most Important Tool for Police Officers Responding to a Person With Mental Illness
Police work is hard. Often the situation is already getting out of hand by the time the cops are called. What if a person with mental illness is involved?
Human Services
March 17, 2015 How to Help Someone With Developmental Disabilities Lead a Meaningful, Fulfilling Life
Even basic needs can be difficult for people with developmental disabilities to fully express. Here are ways to help people communicate what they need.
General
March 16, 2015 On the Road With a CPI Trainer
We know YOU commit precious time and resources to get to our classes, so we, in turn, weather storms to get to you!
Education
March 13, 2015 How Danita Taylor's Making a Difference for Her Students
"Every single student I work with matters and can succeed. My job is to help them discover for themselves that they are valued and are capable of success."
Health Care
March 11, 2015 SAMHSA's Suicide Safe App Helps Healthcare Providers Address Risk
This new, free app from SAMHSA helps primary care and behavioral health providers integrate suicide prevention strategies into their practice.
Behavioral Health
March 10, 2015 Top 10 Words to Know When Joining an Autism Support Group
When you join an autism support group online or in person, you’ll likely discover a whole new vocabulary. Here are 10 key terms to know before jumping in.
Health Care
March 09, 2015 What This Med Student Believes Is Either Totally Naive or Incredibly Possible
Cordelia Ross has hope that an alcoholic patient will finally recover. "At least that’s what the naïve med student in me wants to believe."
General
March 05, 2015 Easing the Effects of Daylight Savings Time on Kids With Autism
Because many kids with autism deeply value routine, daylight savings can be incredibly disruptive. But there are steps you can take to help a child adjust.
Education
March 04, 2015 3 Strategies for Getting Upset Students Back on Track
Elementary school principal Shannon Sobeck shares three of many helpful strategies to use when a student acts out.
General
March 03, 2015 Prepare Training® Instructor Standards Changes
We’ve simplified our Prepare Training® standards to reduce cost and improve your training flexibility.
Dementia Care
March 03, 2015 What Alzheimer’s Really Feels Like
One of the hardest things, says Rick Phelps, is realizing that dementia is taking your memories, and knowing you can't do anything about it.
General
February 26, 2015 Replace Aggression With Empathy, Stephen Hawking Says
"The human failing I would most like to correct is aggression...it threatens to destroy us all."
General
February 24, 2015 New Training for Dealing With Workplace Substance Abuse
In your job, do you deal with people who abuse drugs? Do you need to meet training requirements under Drug-Free Workplace legislation? This course can help.
Dementia Care
February 16, 2015 Try This Powerful Care Model for People With Alzheimer's
You can make people's lives better using these three techniques.
Education
February 13, 2015 Students—Don’t Eat Alone Today
This student-led lunchtime initiative from Beyond Differences makes it easy for kids to overcome social isolation in their middle schools.
General
February 10, 2015 Mirror, Mirror, on the Wall
Who has the greatest impact of them all? Here are tips and inspiration on how YOU can change your work and your life.
General
February 04, 2015 I Found 3 Rewarding Ways to Make People’s Lives Better
Since 2008, I've used and taught incredible techniques to build relationships and help people solve problems. 
Dementia Care
February 02, 2015 Dementia Care Specialist Reviews “Still Alice” Book
The phenomenal book Still Alice shows what it's like to change and decline, yet still remain who you are.
Dementia Care
February 02, 2015 Grind Dining Dishes Up New Menus for Memory Care
People with Alzheimer’s often can’t feed themselves, right? Not necessarily! This alternative to spoon-feeding promotes dignity and even happiness.
Dementia Care
January 29, 2015 Are Persons With Dementia Responsible for Crimes They Commit?
Persons with frontotemporal dementia were responsible for 37% of crimes as opposed to 8% with Alzheimer’s, per a recent study.
Behavioral Health
January 22, 2015 6 Intervention Strategies for Dealing With Hostile, Intoxicated People
"Addiction to alcohol or drugs is a constant inner battle," says Judith Schubert, president of CPI. "And the fight often reaches unintended victims."
Education
January 22, 2015 Bzzzz! Is Low-Level Classroom Noise Distracting Your Student?
We often hear that white noise is good for us. But what if it's TOO distracting for your child in school?
Education
January 09, 2015 How to Stop Kids From Calling Each Other Names
"Loser," "geek," "gay," "worthless," "retard," "freak." Words can lay kids open. Make your school a part of No Name-Calling Week.
General
December 31, 2014 12 People Who Did Great Work for the Common Good in 2014
Get inspired by this list of 12 incredible people - and unexpected heroes - who did amazing things in 2014 to help society's most vulnerable.
General
December 23, 2014 Dontre Hamilton and Why Police Need Crisis Intervention Training
What would happen if all cops were trained in crisis prevention and intervention—and EVERYONE was educated about mental illnesses?
General
December 17, 2014 Where Do We Go From the Middle of the Road?
Families affected by police use of force feel immense pain, and it's also true that the job of a police officer is incredibly difficult.
Behavioral Health
December 17, 2014 Disruptive Behavior Can Be Safely Managed--These Tools Can Help
While trauma can affect a child's health and development, a new study highlights the power of helping a kid develop coping skills.
Education
December 15, 2014 What to Do When a Kid Screams, Swears, and Calls You Names
An enraged boy screamed curses at Maria Navone. But once she took a special approach, he was sitting on her knee, calmly showing her his artwork.
General
December 12, 2014 Personal Violence, War, and What You Can Do
War is the BIG expression of accumulated acts of smaller - but no less devastating - aggressions. Prevent those and you contribute to world peace.
General
December 12, 2014 6 Simple Ways to Manage Your Boss’s Behavior
Ever wondered how to handle conflicts with your boss while keeping your relationship - and your job - intact?
Dementia Care
December 10, 2014 How to De-Stress From Caregiving
"Take care of yourself," everyone says. But how exactly do you do that when there are so many demands on your time and energy?
Education
December 09, 2014 Why Teachers Are Dropping Out
Half a million teachers leave the profession every year. Here's what needs to happen in higher and continuing ED to keep teachers teaching.
Human Services
December 08, 2014 How to Help People Handle Trauma
Strategies for attuning your own emotions can help you care for people who carry the weight of trauma.
Dementia Care
December 01, 2014 Beau Provence: A Distinguished Provider in Memory Care
In December, this Louisiana assisted living community received the highest credential in memory care for its commitment to exceptional, personalized care.
Dementia Care
November 26, 2014 Functional Cognitive Assessment and Partnering With Kindred Healthcare
Functional cognitive assessments help you provide the best approaches throughout the continuum of care for a person with Alzheimer's/dementia.
Retail
November 17, 2014 Workplace Violence: Are You at Risk? OSHA May Think So
If you have one or more of these risk factors at work, find out what you can do about it with the Prepare Training® program.
General
October 29, 2014 5 Things to Do When Someone’s Rude to You
Ever greeted someone with a pleasant "Good morning" and received a less than pleasant response? Here's what to do.
Education
October 28, 2014 Behavior Improvement Plans: Are Yours on Target?
"Ready! Fire! Aim!" is one way to develop a behavior improvement plan (BIP)—but here's what works better.
Education
October 28, 2014 Stand Up to Bullying With BullyBust!
BullyBust is about helping kids shift from being bystanders to advocates who STAND UP.
Education
October 24, 2014 Would Your Students Agree With These Statements?
What your students say about your school can help you connect PBIS and bullying prevention.
General
October 20, 2014 Do You Know Bullying? SAMHSA’s App Is Here to Help
Just 15 minutes a day can build a strong foundation between you and your children when it comes to preventing bullying.
Education
October 19, 2014 SymbolStix Teaches Students With Disabilities About Bullying Education
These visual tools and symbols help kids with disabilities understand bullying and communicate their needs.
Human Services
October 18, 2014 Born This Way Foundation Offers Hope for Teens
Lady Gaga's foundation helps embrace differences and celebrate individuality.
Education
October 16, 2014 Safe Social Media With the SodaPop App
Discover a social network where kids can post comments and photos free from online predators—and get help if they're being bullied.
Education
October 15, 2014 How to Teach Digital Citizenship
Digital citizenship - the responsible and appropriate use of online media - is an important value and skill set you can teach.
Behavioral Health
October 13, 2014 What’s Your Concept of Trauma?
SAMHSA's concept and guidance give you tools to help people who carry the weight of trauma cope and heal.
Education
October 13, 2014 Cruel's Not Cool: How to Teach Kids to Be Kind
Why are people so mean to each other? Annie Fox has the answer—and solutions.
Education
October 10, 2014 Research and Outreach to Power Bullying Prevention
The Empowerment Initiative strives for respectful, bullying-free environments.
October 07, 2014 Bullying Prevention and The UnSlut Project
What does slut shaming have to do with bullying? Everything.
General
October 05, 2014 What Ten Famous Films Teach Us About Bullying
These ten famous films include scenes with constructive commentary about bullying.
Behavioral Health
October 02, 2014 Ten Things Every Child with Autism Wishes You Knew
Equipping those around our children with basic understanding of autism has a huge impact on their ability to move towards productive, independent adulthood.
Dementia Care
October 01, 2014 How Therapeutic Gardening Helps People With Alzheimer's and Dementia
Caring for plants provides a special kind of therapy that reaches beyond dementia and into memory and ability.
September 30, 2014 "Bullying will NEVER go away!"
For School Bullying Prevention Month, take a look at the people for whom "never" couldn't stop them from trying.
Human Services
August 26, 2014 How to Help a Troubled Youth
What are your options when everything you try ends up escalating a kid's behavior instead of defusing it?
Education
August 22, 2014 CPI and LSCI on Conflict in the Classroom
How can you help troubled kids learn and grow? Get insight from the LSCI Institute, CPI's Dr. Randy Boardman, and other experts in education and psychology.
August 19, 2014 Bullying, Your School, and What You Can Do About It
One of many things I took away from the summit was a renewed sense of purpose for doing everything I can to help kids value each other, not harm.
Behavioral Health
August 15, 2014 Memories of Madness: My Dad’s Bipolar Disorder
Like looking through a peephole, I'm on the outside looking in, so I will never truly understand what goes on inside my father's mind.
Behavioral Health
August 12, 2014 Let’s Call It What It Is: Death by Depression
After Robin Williams’ passing, maybe the one thing we can take away is to remember that depression can kill.
Human Services
August 05, 2014 CPI and LSCI Bring Hope, Care
We're collaborating with the Life Space Crisis Intervention Institute to bring you integrated training programs for supporting vulnerable people.
Dementia Care
August 01, 2014 The 4 Keys to How Parc Provence Excels in Memory Care
From architecture to training to a care model that helps people with dementia to thrive, Parc Provence sets the bar.
Dementia Care
July 31, 2014 How a Paradigm Shift Helped Me Grow Professionally
If you pursue continuing education for professional development, growth, and to maintain licensure, I can help!
General
July 30, 2014 How SMEs Become SME's (Unrestrained Episode 2)
Susan Keith, CPI Director of Curriculum Development, talks about her experiences training and working with Certified Instructors to develop content.
General
July 30, 2014 Protecting Teens From Workplace Violence
Teens are often the last to receive training on handling robberies or assaults, but are often in positions of the most risk.
Dementia Care
July 29, 2014 How David Schonberg Is Changing Dementia Care
Is there a memory care community that can truly meet your loved one's needs? David Schonberg, pioneer in memory car facilities, thinks so.
Behavioral Health
July 28, 2014 How to Help Someone in a Mental Health Crisis
You carry intervention skills with you wherever you go. Here's how to use them.
Dementia Care
July 17, 2014 Parc Provence: A Distinguished Provider in Memory Care
The St.-Louis-area assisted living community received the highest credential in memory care at its 10-year anniversary celebration.
Dementia Care
July 17, 2014 The Best Medicine
As a caregiver, what moments have made you laugh?
General
July 14, 2014 Why Is “Hands Off” Safer When a Client Gets Violent?
What can you do when you're running out of verbal intervention options, and it's not safe to physically intervene?
Behavioral Health
July 11, 2014 Diagnosing: Is It ADHD—Or Trauma?
Looking beyond behavior to underlying causes can reveal an unexpected diagnosis. We need to be able to treat emotional damage inflicted by traumatic events.
Dementia Care
July 09, 2014 Heritage at The Colonnade Presents: Dementia Care for Families
The memory care facility held a three-hour educational program for families on how to care for loved ones who have Alzheimer's and dementia.
General
July 01, 2014 Is Trauma-Informed Care Just Another Buzzword?
The police bring in a patient who's kicking and screaming. What the doctor does saves the patient's life, and defines a concept that's a very hot term.
General
June 30, 2014 Restraint Reduction Conference a Success!
What do care professionals have to say about our European event on strategies for reducing restraint?
Health Care
June 24, 2014 What Is CPI Training for Nurses?
A research project tested the effectiveness of CPI's Nonviolent Crisis Intervention<sup>®</sup> training program for nursing students.
Health Care
June 19, 2014 New Trauma TIP for Healthcare Professionals
This guide from SAMHSA can help you assist individuals whose health and behavior challenges stem from trauma.
General
June 18, 2014 Every Bump Is a Boost
What's one piece of advice your parents or grandparents gave you that's stuck with you?
Education
June 17, 2014 Common Care Standards for Schools
As we struggle to agree on the Common Core academic standards, we should also think about standards for Common Care.
Health Care
June 16, 2014 Can Crisis Prevention Training Prepare Nursing Students for the Job?
Nurses face huge challenges when caring for people who verbally or physically act out due to stress, trauma, pain, or any number of factors.
Education
June 05, 2014 What's in the School Discipline Consensus Report?
Blending multidisciplinary strategies with input from youth and families, the report details positive ways to keep kids in school and out of trouble.
Dementia Care
June 04, 2014 Spotlight on Design for Dementia Care: An Interview With PDC Midwest’s Amy Schoenemann
Amy Schoenemann, director of design development for PDC Midwest, an architect-led firm that specializes in senior living talks about designing for dementia.
Dementia Care
May 23, 2014 Schonberg's Winning Strategy for Memory Care Communities
Cutting-edge memory care leader David Schonberg builds pioneering assisted living communities from the ground up.
Education
May 20, 2014 ASD & Stopping Bullying With Empathy
Social skills training helps both students on the spectrum and neurotypical kids. Teaching students empathy is key to helping them communicate healthily.
Dementia Care
May 20, 2014 Making Memory Care Human: Innovating LTC Design
What struck me was how often I heard that while their firm "does" memory care, they want to do it better.
Behavioral Health
May 13, 2014 What Teens With Trauma Want You to Know
If your job is to help kids feel safe and cope with what they've been through, browse these resources.
Education
May 08, 2014 A Different Perspective on Teacher Appreciation
Appreciation is defined as “a feeling of being grateful for something.” This definition is well-represented in the Teacher Appreciation Week sentiments.
Dementia Care
May 02, 2014 The Power of Long-Term Memory (Part II)
Sometimes something as simple as going swimming can reawaken memories and recharge the spirit of a person with dementia.
Dementia Care
May 01, 2014 Favorite Group Activities For Persons With Dementia
When you're a caregiver, how do you keep things interesting for your loved one or client?
General
April 25, 2014 NEW! StealthWear (TM) Protective Clothing
To help you balance care with safety, we’ve partnered with StealthWear™ Clothing Inc. to offer their Active Aide™ line of protective clothing.
Health Care
April 21, 2014 Preventing Workplace Violence in Healthcare
I say that guns have no place in a training program that's aimed at preventing violence.
Dementia Care
April 15, 2014 Why Memory Care Must Be Flexible
Find out what goes into creating a flexible memory care environment built around residents' interests and abilities.
Education
April 14, 2014 Restraint and Prevention in the Ridgefield School District
How staff in one district deal with student behaviors such as hitting, kicking, and causing self-injury.
General
April 03, 2014 Does CPI Training Work?
It sure does! Here’s how de-escalation skills can help you defuse crisis situations quickly and effectively.
Education
March 26, 2014 School Fight Prevention Tips
How do you prevent fights in your school? Here are some strategies to help.
Dementia Care
March 10, 2014 VA Raises the Standard of Care for Vets With Dementia
Exciting news! We now have the opportunity to offer our trainings to 53 Veterans Administration facilities across the country.
General
March 10, 2014 Zip It or Quip It: Talking After an Incident
Communicating after a disagreement or crisis is an opportunity and can be relationship defining. Here are some pros and cons of speaking after a crisis.
Behavioral Health
March 10, 2014 How to Respect People Who Have Developmental Disabilities
Special Olympian John Franklin Stephens wrote a powerful post about intellectual and developmental disabilities that aims straight for your heart.
Education
March 06, 2014 Reducing Suspensions With Restorative Practices and SWPBIS
The new policy is designed to empower teachers with classroom management tools they can use before or instead of referring a student out of the classroom.
February 27, 2014 Federal Bill S2036: Keeping All Students Safe
Training can help educators handle problem behavior more safely.
General
February 26, 2014 CEU FAQs
Why are there so many different regulations for continuing education credits? How do I navigate the confusion?
Education
February 26, 2014 Trauma: When Life Deals Kids a Handful of ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences)
Violence and abuse (Adverse Childhood Experiences) derail kids' health and development. Here's how to help them endure.
Dementia Care
February 17, 2014 New Guides for Professional Caregivers to Help Families With Dementia
Your clients' friends and families probably have a lot of questions about Alzheimer's disease and dementia. These guides can help.
February 13, 2014 Restraint in Schools and the Keeping All Students Safe Act
Can prevention training and PBIS help educators keep their classrooms safe?
February 07, 2014 Improving Behaviour by Sanction Is Not the Only Way
I hope for a deeper emphasis on prevention, and more funds and time for school staff to get prevention training.
Dementia Care
February 05, 2014 Flying: What One Man Did for His Dad With Dementia
Tap into someone’s long-term memories of things they loved throughout their lifetime to help them feel joy and fulfillment.
Education
February 05, 2014 Classroom Management Techniques Every Teacher Can Use
Interested in ways to handle disruptive behavior in your school? See what Certified Instructors did to end violence.
General
February 05, 2014 Welcome From the Continuing Education Department!
Our training has continuing education approvals for a variety of professions in numerous states. Get ready to explore the world of continuing education!
General
February 05, 2014 Training Tips Corner: Energizing Review Activity
This energetic and fast-paced activity focuses on the major terms and concepts taught during the Prepare Training® Foundation Course.
Education
February 04, 2014 How I Feel After Reading "What I Saw"
Kitt saw someone with autism feeling afraid, and I see a powerful perspective that can teach us a lot.
General
January 28, 2014 Get Outta My Face: Preventing Problems by Respecting Personal Space
How much does someone’s comfort zone and personal space have to do with their behavior?
Education
January 20, 2014 The Empathic Educator
The Empathy Quotient is a self-administered screening tool for measuring empathy levels in people with autism. What do you score?
Education
January 17, 2014 How to Erase Meanness in Your School
What's your school doing to combat bullying? Sixth-grade teacher Eric Johnson started with just one word.
Education
January 16, 2014 School Climate: Helping Kids Succeed
What can you do to improve your school climate when you're dealing with mountains of referral forms and countless instances of misbehavior?
Retail
January 13, 2014 Strategies to Stop Workplace Bullying
These tips can help you whether you're a leader, a manager or supervisor, or any employee in your organization.
General
January 13, 2014 Restraint Reduction and CPI Training
Find out how CPI training, tips, and resources can help your organization with restraint reduction and meet state requirements.
Security
January 10, 2014 Hospital Security and Joint Commission Standards
What are your policies and procedures for keeping yourself and your patients safe? What can you do to keep them relevant and helpful?
General
January 09, 2014 Critical Incident Management Training
What's incident management training and how can CPI help you manage the behaviors that emerge during a crisis?
Behavioral Health
January 08, 2014 5 Things "Difficult" People Are Really Saying
Here are five simple needs that people in crisis have—and how to meet those needs.
Behavioral Health
January 06, 2014 Behavior Intervention
Prevent dangerous behavior from escalating with these behavior intervention tips and training from CPI.
Human Services
December 17, 2013 How a Social Worker Uses CPI Training to Help Kids Calm Down
How do you handle situations that might turn violent? Find out about Angie Smith's verbal and nonverbal techniques.
General
December 09, 2013 The Holidays and Rational Detachment
You know that Nonviolent Crisis Intervention® training helps individuals manage their anxiety levels at work, but it’s also useful during the holidays too.
Human Services
November 15, 2013 "Be a man, for crying out loud!"
Bullying and harassment in the workplace can happen to anyone. What are some of its behavioral signs? And how can we react in helpful ways?
Health Care
November 13, 2013 Patient Safety and Staff Safety: Inherently Intertwined
When we talk about finding real solutions to workplace violence, we tend to lose sight of the violence that hospital employees deal with daily.
Education
November 07, 2013 Master Level Certified Instructor Named Superintendent of the Year
Dr. Ron Walsh, superintendent of the Elk Mound Area School District in Wisconsin, has goals for every student: Community. Prosperity. Liberty. Equality.
Dementia Care
October 31, 2013 Create the Just-Right Challenge for National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month
Millions of people are affected by Alzheimer’s/dementia, and there will be millions more. Our goal is simple: working together to stop suffering and stigma.
Dementia Care
October 23, 2013 The Willows at Mallard Cove Awarded With Distinguished Provider Recognition
Dementia Care Specialists has awarded The Willows at Mallard Cove, Cincinnati, OH with Distinguished Provider recognition for dementia care.
General
October 04, 2013 5 Things You Might Not Know About Crisis Intervention
Simple, universal communication skills can help you at work, at home, and wherever you go.
General
September 04, 2013 5 Tips for National Preparedness Month and Beyond
Here are five important things to consider as you review and evaluate your violence prevention policies and procedures.
Education
September 04, 2013 What's Your State's Policy on Restraint and Seclusion in Schools?
Balancing teaching with behavior management can be tricky. CPI can give you skills to decrease problem behavior so you can focus on teaching.
General
August 27, 2013 The Meaning of Being Meritorious
Implementing training isn’t easy. That’s why we started identifying exceptional Certified Instructors who demonstrate high levels of expertise in training.
General
August 14, 2013 Do Me a Favor
I know it’s hard to believe, but the individuals in our care are actually doing us a favor when they yell, scream, and display acting-out behavior.
Dementia Care
July 30, 2013 Major Neurocognitive Disorder: The DSM-5’s New Term for Dementia
Whether we call the disease dementia or major neurocognitive disorder, quality memory care should focus on the whole person.
General
July 23, 2013 8 Tips for Respectful Online Communication at Work
Get tips for writing respectful emails—and what to do the next time you receive a not-so-great one.
Human Services
July 17, 2013 Changing Perceptions; Changing Care
How do your perceptions shape your patient care? Here's what you can do today to improve care for your patients--and yourself.
Behavioral Health
July 11, 2013 7 Essential Elements of Healthcare Excellence
Here are seven ways to focus more on quality patient care and worry less about violence in your workplace.
Behavioral Health
July 09, 2013 A Message From the Perspective of a Developmentally Traumatized Child
Mitch Abblett believes that empathy for the kids in our care is crucial.
Human Services
July 02, 2013 Heroes: A Dedication to All Who Work in Human Services
Do you need help dealing with difficult behavior? Here are some thoughts to help you rationally detach.
General
June 20, 2013 An Essential Key to Staying Calm During a Crisis
Rational Detachment is key to calming down when your heart beats fast and your breathing gets shallow.
General
June 14, 2013 Reducing Workplace Violence: Using Postvention for Prevention
How can you reduce incidents of workplace violence? Get five quick tips for making staff and service users safer.
Dementia Care
June 07, 2013 10 Tips to Ease the Caregiver Journey
Do you need tips to ensure the quality care that your loved one deserves? Get resources here.
Behavioral Health
June 06, 2013 DSM-5: New Diagnostic Criteria
How do new DSM-5 terms like Major Neurocognitive Disorder affect the person-centered approach to care that CPI promotes?
Health Care
June 05, 2013 Reducing Healthcare Violence
There is no acceptable level of violence in healthcare. We must equip staff with skills and strategies for reducing healthcare violence.
Education
May 29, 2013 Changing School Culture With Restorative Practices
Building strong student–teacher relationships and supporting positive behavior is key to transforming school climate.
Education
May 28, 2013 Verbal Intervention Training Helps Educators With Classroom Management
Find out how teachers who get training with CPI's verbal intervention materials report more confidence in effectively managing their classrooms.
Behavioral Health
May 24, 2013 Temple Grandin Advises How to Expand Autism Abilities
Drawing on her experience, Dr. Temple Grandin explains that motivating children with autism includes expanding their fixations beyond immediate interests.
Dementia Care
May 23, 2013 12 Things You Should Say to a Family Caregiver
What do caregivers want to hear the most? Find out how to help people who care for their loved ones.
Education
May 21, 2013 Resources for Coping With a Crisis at School
We've gathered resources to help you and your loved ones handle your response to the disaster in Oklahoma.
Behavioral Health
May 15, 2013 6 Tips for Creating a Compassionate Culture of Care
Get strategies for making sure that everyone gets the respect and dignity they deserve.
General
May 06, 2013 Preventing Domestic Violence Incidents at Work
Get tips on measures your organization can take to prevent harm from extending to employees on the job.
General
May 01, 2013 4 Quick Tips for Managing Workplace Bullying
It's everyone’s responsibility to address bullying. Here are a few tips and ways we can help you train staff to prevent workplace violence and bullying.
General
April 25, 2013 Respect Is Central to Prevention
Share this word cloud featuring Prepare Training® program words on Facebook, or hang it up to show your commitment to building respect in your workplace!
Dementia Care
April 18, 2013 Provision Living - Summit at Park Hills 2
There was a decrease in quality with her grooming tasks and difficulty with dressing. She demonstrated poor safety awareness with her power chair operation and was putting herself and others at risk for injury.
Dementia Care
April 18, 2013 Provision Living - Summit at Park Hills 1
We noticed a decline in her cognitive abilities and difficulty fully recovering with each infection and hospitalization.
April 10, 2013 Dreams of an Ideal World
Mark Gorman shares elements of an ideal world that are simple, free, and filled with diversity.
Retail
April 08, 2013 In the Heat of the Moment
Raquelle Solon reflects on how she keeps her cool during heated encounters - and invites you to learn how you can handle difficult situations too.
General
April 08, 2013 CPI Hosts First Nonviolent Crisis Intervention® Training in Hong Kong
Last week, we hosted our first Nonviolent Crisis Intervention® Instructor Certification Training Program in Hong Kong.
Health Care
April 08, 2013 Hospital Culture: 5 Tips for Changing Yours
What are five things to consider as you prepare to change your hospital culture and prevent and manage workplace violence?
General
April 08, 2013 Upgrade: After the Crisis: Employee Debriefing Strategies Topic Module
We’re pleased to announce the release of the revised Prepare Training® Employee Debriefing Strategies Topic Module.
General
April 08, 2013 CPI’s Powerful Adult Teaching Methods
How do you help staff learn the strategies taught in training? Everyone’s learning style is unique, but most benefit from a mix of these powerful methods.
Education
April 05, 2013 Improving School Culture With Restorative Justice
Restorative justice teaches kids how to handle things better, and it's helped the Ralph J. Bunche Academy reduce suspensions by half.
March 28, 2013 Tips for Tapping Into the Power of Empathy
Watch this powerful video by Cleveland Clinic and get strategies for making your work easier by building better rapport.
General
March 26, 2013 Employee Debriefing Strategies
Debriefing employees after crisis events has been a widely debated practice. It’s important to differentiate CPI’s post-crisis debriefing model from others.
Dementia Care
March 18, 2013 Provision Living: Raising the Standard for Memory Care
Hear Maureen Rodgers talk about Provision Living's commitment to deepening their skills to raise the standard of care for those with Alzheimer's.
General
February 27, 2013 Don’t Take It Personally
Get tips for rationally detaching when you're faced with rude or insulting behavior.
Dementia Care
February 26, 2013 Follow Your Heart to Raise the Standard for Memory Care!
Check out this awesome infographic that conveys the importance of caring for people with Alzheimer's with passion and heart!
Education
February 21, 2013 Reducing Restraint: Thoughts on Balancing Safety
Let's work together to reduce the need for physical restraint and to ensure safety for students, teachers, staff, patients, and families.
Dementia Care
February 19, 2013 Poetry Program Sparks Joy for Persons With Dementia
"We’re creating a poem about love, and I want to ask you, when you hear the word love, what do you think of? What comes to mind for you?"
Dementia Care
February 13, 2013 Breakthrough Legislation: Medicare to Cover Therapy for Persons With Alzheimer’s Disease
In this video, I talk about a landmark ruling that benefits persons with Alzheimer’s/dementia and their families immensely.
February 05, 2013 Changing Your Hospital’s Culture of Care
How do we work together to ensure that nonviolence is a reality? Get our take and tell us yours!
Health Care
January 31, 2013 CPI at the ANA Conference: Helping You Reach the CORE of Quality
Visit us at the ANA's Nursing Quality Conference in Atlanta and tell us how we can help craft a solution for your facility!
Behavioral Health
January 28, 2013 12 Awesome Books About Autism and Asperger’s
Check out this post about how you can get the resources and the tools to work successfully with individuals on the autism spectrum.
General
January 24, 2013 You Can’t Judge a Book by Its Cover
Find out how being aware of the causes of difficult behavior can help you improve your interactions with others.
General
December 19, 2012 Happy Holidays? Happy Holidays!
Season's Greetings! CPI's Raquelle Solon challenges you to take two curative actions for peace during the holiday season.
Dementia Care
December 13, 2012 Dementia Capable Care Training at the Wilkes-Barre VA Medical Center
Check out this video about the wonderful work of dementia-care staff members at the Wilkes-Barre VA Medical Center!
December 12, 2012 Strategies for Reducing Restraint & Seclusion
“We take heart in all the organizations that have reduced or eliminated the use of restraint and seclusion by changing their cultures of care and implementing our offerings.”
Behavioral Health
December 06, 2012 6 Core Strategies to Guide Restraint & Seclusion Reduction
CPI CEO Tony Jace discusses the Nonviolent Crisis Intervention® training program and the Six Core Strategies to Prevent Conflict and Violence.
December 03, 2012 NREPP Reviews 6 Core Strategies to Prevent Conflict & Violence
Find out how Nonviolent Crisis Intervention® training parallels the Six Core Strategies to Prevent Conflict and Violence: Reducing Seclusion and Restraint.
Behavioral Health
November 28, 2012 Behavior Modification Techniques
We can help you center your care on positive techniques that ensure dignity and safety for yourself, your staff, and the individuals you support.
General
November 16, 2012 CPI Extends Its Mission to the Wonderful People of China!
We're extending our community of caring to China! Click to learn about how we're beginning our work of helping the vulnerable people there.
Dementia Care
November 02, 2012 Terra Osbourne
The resident was withdrawing, and wouldn’t allow the staff to bathe her or help her much with ADL’s.
Education
October 30, 2012 Beyond Seclusion and Restraint: Creating Positive Learning Environments for All Students
Restraint-free classrooms are perfectly possible—even for kids with problem behaviors—when we rethink class environments and interactions.
Education
October 19, 2012 Building a Better Behavioral Framework: Tiers of Positive School Support
People come to me after training saying, ‘This is not what I expected, but totally what I needed. Why aren’t people giving this training every single year?’
Dementia Care
October 11, 2012 How to Gain Family Support When Your Loved One Has Dementia
"When communicating with your siblings, try to be concrete and objective about your mom’s changes and challenges and the help she requires."
Behavioral Health
October 08, 2012 10 Ways to Enhance Relationships and Communication for Individuals With Special Needs
When others do not communicate with us in the way we've become accustomed, we may lose patience or dismiss their communication attempts altogether.
September 20, 2012 8 Great Back-to-School Resources
“I invite you to challenge yourself to constantly be aware of how you as an individual can make a difference in the life of a child,” writes Susan Keith, a Global Professional Instructor of CPI’s Nonviolent Crisis Intervention® program.
Education
September 19, 2012 9 Tips for Interacting With Individuals With Autism
Here's my interpretation of Sarah Stup's 9 Ways to Interact With People With Autism.
Dementia Care
September 04, 2012 The Sound of Music Matters for Persons With Alzheimer's Disease
“Those precious memories that he had held onto all his life were still preserved in spite of him being at the end of Alzheimer’s disease.”
Dementia Care
August 31, 2012 How to Use Music to Awaken Precious Memories in Persons With Alzheimer's
Kim Warchol shares a moving story about how music gave her a key to unlocking precious memories for a man with end-stage Alzheimer's disease.
Retail
August 17, 2012 Behavior Management Strategies
Safe, effective behavior management training and techniques provide strategies for stopping problem behavior and boosting positive, productive behavior.
General
August 14, 2012 The Power of Community
Vulnerable people, young and old, can often feel alone, and a sense of community takes more than just the four walls that may form much of their world.
August 14, 2012 A Community of Caring
What does the word “community” mean to you?
General
July 23, 2012 Conflict Management Training
Conflict management training and resources provide strategies for satisfying the needs of all parties and achieving conflict resolution.
General
July 20, 2012 Calling for Perspective in the Face of Today’s Colorado Tragedy
Dealing with painful emotions can be a matter of shifting perspective. We offer these tips for anyone attempting to maintain perspective following tragedy.
Education
July 20, 2012 Applying PBIS to Decrease Bullying
Learn how PBIS provides an effective model for reducing challenging behaviors, including bullying behaviors, and get more resources for reducing bullying.
General
June 27, 2012 Customer Relationship Management Through the Lens of CPI's Prepare Training® Program
We typically think about customer relationship management (CRM) as a technical function, but CRM really involves much more than powerful software.
Behavioral Health
June 18, 2012 Reinforce Positive Behavior Through Choice
When you look at a child through a child-centered lens, what do you see?
Dementia Care
June 07, 2012 Caring for Persons With Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD)
Because FTD often strikes at a younger age, it can affect ability to perform job responsibilities, and so hinder a person’s ability to earn a living.
Human Services
May 23, 2012 Region Ten Celebrates "Earthshaking" Training Implementation
While many Instructors worry about training distractions such as phone use, Missy Rand rolled along with one large disruption: a 5.8 magnitude earthquake.
General
April 27, 2012 Workplace Violence and US Laws
Here are some answers to questions about laws on prevention and response to workplace violence and how these laws relate to CPI’s Prepare Training® program.
Human Services
April 27, 2012 Expecting the Unexpected: Responding to Unpredictable Behavior
Addiction to alcohol or drugs is a constant inner battle. Anger and hostility can be frightening, so staff responses can help or hinder crisis resolution.
Behavioral Health
April 23, 2012 Celebrating Autism Awareness Month
The more we learn about and understand individuals with autism spectrum disorders, the richer and more rewarding our relationships with them will become.
General
April 17, 2012 The Challenges in Defining Workplace Bullying
Unfortunately, bullying doesn't end at graduation. Bullying at work is a worldwide issue, but has difficulty being defined.
April 16, 2012 Bullying in School: The Traumatic Effects of Bullying on Children
School leaders should be vigilant in sending a clear message to bullies that bullying is not tolerated in their setting.
Education
April 16, 2012 Enhancing Respectfulness Through Restorative Practices
Using interventions, students are learning more positive behaviors and productive ways to respond when they feel that another student has harmed them.
Dementia Care
April 13, 2012 DCS Helps VA Medical Center Focus on Best Abilities
With veterans needing more long-term dementia care, it’s often a race between staff understanding the disease and the increasing number of clients.
Behavioral Health
April 05, 2012 Top 10 Recommended Trauma-Informed Care Online Resources
Here we present ten of our favorite online resources dedicated to the practice of trauma-informed care.
Behavioral Health
March 29, 2012 Top 10 Recommended ASD Websites
These organizations are dedicated to improving the lives of all affected by autism through education, advocacy, services, research, and support.
Dementia Care
March 21, 2012 How to Engage Senior-Living Residents in Meaningful Activities
When you empower seniors to engage in activities on their own initiative, this fosters participation without forcing it.
Health Care
March 13, 2012 Choosing a Rehab Facility for a Loved One
Keeping a cool head, putting your loved one first, and drawing on the following tips will get you through the process with as little stress as possible.
General
March 05, 2012 Inappropriate Customer Behavior: How Do You Respond to It?
An individual tells a receptionist that if she was mistaken about his deductible, he was “going to come back and take the difference out of her hide.”
General
February 27, 2012 Training Tips: CPI Electronic Presentations
Learn more about the Prepare Training® Electronic Presentations, and how they can reinforce the points you make during training.
Dementia Care
February 23, 2012 DCS Awards GreenTree at Mt. Vernon With Distinguished Provider Recognition
Dementia Care Specialists (DCS) has awarded GreenTree at Mt. Vernon with the status of Distinguished Provider--the highest credential in dementia care.
February 22, 2012 DCS Awards The Summit at Park Hills With Distinguished Provider Recognition
Dementia Care Specialists (DCS) has awarded The Summit at Park Hills with the status of Distinguished Provider--the highest credential in dementia care.
Education
February 21, 2012 Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports on the School Bus
Many of us have implemented school-wide PBIS in our buildings, but how many of us have considered extending these strategies to the school bus?
General
February 17, 2012 Safety First: Firefighting in Canada
The amendment to Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act grants workers the right to refuse to work where they feel endangered by workplace violence.
General
January 31, 2012 HUFF
Here’s an easy-to-follow approach for using the information in the Nonviolent Crisis Intervention® program using the acronym HUFF.
January 30, 2012 Crisis Planning Checklist
If you face danger at work, you need simple and clear guidelines to ease your actions and decisions.
Health Care
January 23, 2012 Restraint Use: Culture of Assumptions
The culture of a hospital unit not only lies in the culture of the organization, but also a dynamic process defined and reinforced every day by its staff.
Behavioral Health
January 20, 2012 The Culture of Autism: Clues to Causation of Crises and a Source for Solutions
Making the most of strengths associated with autism will help put us on the right path to achieving the goal of preventing a crisis whenever possible.
Behavioral Health
January 20, 2012 The Culture of Disability
As human service providers, we can serve as resources to persons within the culture of disability who do not have access to accommodations and technology.
General
January 18, 2012 Cultural Competence in Crisis Intervention
It's important for us to feel validated and respected—particularly in crisis situations. Cultural competence can be key.
General
January 11, 2012 Tertiary Prevention: Tier 3 in the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) Framework
Tertiary supports are specialized and intensive for individuals who exhibit very high-risk behaviors.
General
January 04, 2012 Phrases to Use While Training
In this post I’ll explain some of the phrases that I’ve used to explain concepts in our training programs, like the ‘crisis werewolf’ and ‘verbal vomit.’
Security
December 14, 2011 CPI Training Options for Everyone on Campus
As a security manager at an Ontario community college in June 2010, I shouldn't have been surprised by the focus on my thoughts on workplace violence.
General
November 22, 2011 What Is Fair and Reasonable
What may seem reasonable to us may not be reasonable or fair to the person we are setting limits with. So how do we know whether we’re being fair or not?
General
November 21, 2011 When It All Goes Wrong
Nothing causes anxiety like uncontrollable changes in plan. What we can control is our response to this anxiety, making the situation better or much worse.
General
November 09, 2011 Crisis Intervention Music on the Beach
There is an old saying that music soothes the savage beast. I would have to agree with that. Music can also excite, bewilder, or even upset people.
General
November 03, 2011 Powerful Simplicity
During crisis situations, simple and clear guidelines for directing our decisions and actions work best.
Behavioral Health
November 01, 2011 Staying Well When You Have a Mental Illness
When you have a mental illness, your overall health is vital to your recovery. Find ways to aid your recovery and help you feel better overall.
General
October 26, 2011 Empathy Exercise
While empathy is one of the cornerstones of the Nonviolent Crisis Intervention® program, it can be difficult to put into practice.
Behavioral Health
October 24, 2011 Applying Prepare Training® Concepts and Skills: People Living With Mental Illness
It is important that professionals serving the mentally ill in any setting approach these individuals with a sense of respect, service, and safety.
Dementia Care
October 10, 2011 Behavior Is Communication
Want to prevent difficult behaviors? Learn the secret language of what a person is really trying to tell you.
General
September 30, 2011 Workplace Bullying Resources and References
CPI offers resources to raise awareness about workplace bullying and help you maintain respectful, service-oriented, and safe workplaces.
Education
September 27, 2011 Grabbing a Bully by the Horns
A bully doesn't care about gender, race, age, culture, or ability. However, a bully does care about finding new ways to torment their targeted victim.
Human Services
September 27, 2011 Fostering Emotionally Safe Environments for Caregiving
As a teacher, it is my response that decides whether a crisis will be escalated or de-escalated, or a child humanized or de-humanized.
Dementia Care
September 26, 2011 September is World Alzheimer’s Month
Since September is World Alzheimer’s month, I’d invite you to view this CPI video, “Unlocking Abilities: Nurturing Capabilities to Improve Quality of Life.”
Health Care
September 23, 2011 Domestic Violence: What Can Nurses Do?
Nurses play a vital role in helping victims of domestic violence and abuse. So it is imperative to train them in assessing and responding to victims.
Security
September 21, 2011 Find Risk Before It Finds You
Learn proven assessment methods that may help you be proactive rather than reactive when implementing safety measures in your organization.
Education
September 19, 2011 School Bullying Resources and References
Developing an understanding of bullying and the facts and myths that surround it is critical to dealing effectively with bullying behaviors.
General
September 01, 2011 Combating the Varieties of Violence at Work
Bullying behaviors include verbal and nonverbal behaviors, written communication, and the manner and style in which we use the words we choose.
Education
August 31, 2011 School Bullying Can Take a Toll on Your Child's Mental Health
Many children being picked on by bullies feel the need to suffer in silence. But bullying is rarely a problem that takes care of itself. We need to act.
General
August 22, 2011 Getting a Handle on a Hands-Off Policy
While a hands-off policy is an excellent goal, it often takes time for restraint reduction efforts to be fruitful enough to deem a facility restraint-free.
General
August 17, 2011 What Is and What Is Not Acceptable?
Are nontraditional types of crisis interventions acceptable? We’d love to hear what you think.
Dementia Care
August 11, 2011 6 Best Practices for Activities Programming in Dementia Care Units
All activities can be meaningful when you have my top 6 tips for best practices in dementia care activity programming.
Security
August 10, 2011 To Continuum or Not to Continuum . . . That Is the Question
Having been a security executive, I believe we need to give security professionals more tools to identify and de-escalate crisis behaviors.
Behavioral Health
August 09, 2011 Ten Things Your Student With Autism Wishes You Knew
Believe that you can make a difference for me. It requires accommodation and adaptation, but expect more and you will get more.
General
July 13, 2011 Tornadoes Bring Awareness to Other Safety Concerns
Proper precautions save lives when tornado sirens sound. Similarly, violence prevention training gives employees the chance to mitigate crisis situations.
Behavioral Health
July 06, 2011 Self-Injurious Behavior in People With Developmental Disabilities
What additional resources are available to Certified Instructors on peripheral topics related to the Nonviolent Crisis Intervention® training program?
July 05, 2011 Using Training in Verbal Skills to Reduce the Use of Seclusion and Restraint
Find out what the Pine Rest staff did, and the misconceptions they overcame, to dramatically reduce restraint and seclusion with CPI training.
Behavioral Health
July 05, 2011 Reducing Seclusion and Restraint for Improved Patient and Staff Safety
The reduction of seclusion and restraint has been a quality indicator in psychiatric services for many years.
June 30, 2011 Secondary Prevention: Tier 2 in the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) Framework
This post is the second in a series of three, and examines the second level of the Positive Behavioral Interventions Supports framework.
Dementia Care
June 23, 2011 Treating Psychotic Symptoms in Persons With Dementia
Agitation is a common problem seen in persons with dementia. The first step to lessening it is to discover and treat the cause for the psychotic symptoms.
General
June 01, 2011 Crisis Management Training
CPI’s crisis management programs emphasize prevention, intervention, and nonphysical methods for managing disruptive behavior.
General
June 01, 2011 Workplace Violence
Workplace violence is a very real issue. CPI offers professional workplace violence training to help you prevent violence in the workplace.
General
June 01, 2011 Verbal Intervention
Apply these seven simple and versatile principles for effective verbal intervention.
Education
June 01, 2011 School Bus Safety
Check out these school bus safety tips to keep drivers and passengers safe.
Behavioral Health
June 01, 2011 Restraint and Seclusion
Explore a selection of resources for preventing and reducing restraint and seclusion.
General
June 01, 2011 Physical Intervention Training
Physical intervention training should stress positive de-escalation skills as the most important, using physical intervention only as a last resort.
General
June 01, 2011 Crisis Response Team Training
Here are seven easy tips to developing a highly effective crisis response team and promoting a culture of care.
General
June 01, 2011 De-escalation Techniques
Watch a preview of CPI’s Preventive Techniques II DVD to learn how you can use your nonverbal behavior to safely manage the disruptive behavior of others.
Dementia Care
June 01, 2011 Alzheimer's Care Training
The need for staff training to successfully care for people with Alzheimer's is expanding. A person-centered care philosophy is crucial.
June 01, 2011 Autism Training
Check out these two courses offered by CPI to train your staff to assist those on the autism spectrum.
General
June 01, 2011 Crisis Intervention Training
CPI's Nonviolent Crisis Intervention training focuses on methods to prevent problem situations before they can occur.
General
June 01, 2011 Positional Asphyxia
Learn more about restraint-related positional asphyxia and get tips and resources for reducing it in your workplace.
General
June 01, 2011 Physical Restraint Training
Check out these resources to see how CPI programs are about more than physical restraint training—they’re about prevention.
General
June 01, 2011 De-escalation Tips
CPI's verbal de-escalation training can help keep a disruption from turning into a full-blown crisis situation.
General
June 01, 2011 Behavior Management
CPI provides safe behavior management training, programs, best practices and innovative resources to professionals around the world.
General
June 01, 2011 Positive Behavior Support
Explore a variety of strategies related to Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) from various expert sources.
General
April 19, 2011 Postvention Clarity
Postvention is probably one of the least understood and most underrated elements of an overall intervention policy.
General
April 08, 2011 Pastrami on Rye
After watching an employee at a deli remain in control while being yelled at, I asked him what he usually did to manage disgruntled customers.
General
April 07, 2011 Respect, Service and Safety—Everyone Wins!
We typically think about customer relationship management as a technical function but it really involves much more than great software.
General
April 07, 2011 Dealing with Office Bullies: Developing Respect, Service, and Safety on the Job
Simply stated, workplace bullying is any negative behavior that demonstrates a lack of regard for other workers.
Retail
April 07, 2011 Taking Threats Seriously: Establishing a Threat Assessment Team and Developing Organizational Procedures
Organizations are increasingly called upon to assess and respond to threats of workplace violence and other situations where targeted violence is possible.
General
April 07, 2011 Domestic Violence Statistics and Your Workplace
With the prevalence of domestic violence and the amount of time we spend working, domestic violence is seeping into the workplace and can’t be overlooked.
General
April 06, 2011 Auditing Disaster Prevention
An auditing process can help employers use corporate values to infuse respect and tolerance into employees’ behaviors and prevent workplace emergencies.
Human Services
April 06, 2011 A Manager's Guide to Handling Painful Anniversaries in the Workplace
Our lives change when something awful happens. Some of us lose friends and family. We’re all affected. Here’s what you can do to help yourself and others.
General
April 06, 2011 How to Manage Challenging Behavior in Your Training Environment
Challenging behavior is an opportunity. It gives you the perfect platform to model and teach the techniques of the Prepare Training® program.
General
March 22, 2011 Maximize Role-Play Benefits
I had always heard that role-plays were a drag for participants. But why? Aren’t there many benefits to this form of learning?
Human Services
March 11, 2011 PBIS Values: Person-Centered and Strength-Based
Two key values that have been pivotal to PBIS since its earliest days are "person-centered" and "strength-based."
General
February 21, 2011 Skill Building—Strategies for Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS)
This post is the second of three in a series that will address these key aspects to consider when developing Behavior Intervention Plans.
Education
February 09, 2011 School Bullying and Our New Nonviolent Crisis Intervention® Refresher Option
There's no question that school bullying is a critical issue. CPI now offers a refresh to help you teach staff about this important topic.
General
February 03, 2011 Staff Responses and Giving Praise—Strategies for Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS)
Effectively supporting positive behaviors involves making changes in three areas: the environment, staff responses, and skill building.
General
February 03, 2011 Staying Safe When Working Alone: Applying Prepare Training® Concepts and Skills
Working alone can be difficult or dangerous, but simple skills can help you stay safe.
Education
January 07, 2011 Environmental Strategies for Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS)
This post is the first of three in a series that will address these key aspects to consider when developing Behavior Intervention Plans.
December 09, 2010 Tell Us Your Success Stories
In preparation for our next Conference, we want to hear from you about the impact that crisis intervention training has had in your organization!
Dementia Care
November 23, 2010 New Resource From Greater Illinois Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association
While researchers are working hard to find a cure to Alzheimer’s, we must do what we can to educate and support professional and family care partners.
General
November 22, 2010 Safe and Secure Travel
Flying is a privilege, not a right, even when we wish we could just tap the heels of our ruby slippers and magically appear at our destinations.
Dementia Care
November 15, 2010 How to Code and Bill Your Interventions for Patients With Dementia
This article presents a synopsis of correct coding to help insure clinical reimbursement.
Dementia Care
November 15, 2010 How to Reduce Weight Loss Associated With Alzheimer's Disease
Unfortunately, persons with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and related dementias are at a very high risk for weight loss.
General
November 12, 2010 Restraint When and Why
A person is screaming, swearing, and threatening you. What can you do to make sure your reaction is appropriate?
Dementia Care
November 12, 2010 Middle Stage Dementia: Techniques to Maximize Function
Studies indicate that currently most individuals with Alzheimer's and related dementias are functioning in the early stage.
Dementia Care
November 12, 2010 How Dementia Stages Impact Nursing in Long-Term Care
Recognition of the specific hallmarks in each dementia stage enables nurses to celebrate the resident and the abilities that remain beyond the diagnoses.
Dementia Care
November 12, 2010 Activity Intervention for Alzheimer's & Related Dementias: Medicare Regulations for SNF/ALF
Skilled therapeutic intervention disperses daily activities to elicit a sense of worth in persons with progressive degenerative diseases. How do we do that?
Dementia Care
November 12, 2010 Sensory Stimulation Programs for Persons in Allen Level 1 and 2
Persons functioning in Allen level 1 and 2 will greatly benefit from a sensory stimulation maintenance program.
Dementia Care
November 01, 2010 An Update on the Happenings of The Allen Cognitive Network
I encourage you to learn more about the Allen Cognitive Network. There is much value in being able to share ideas, visions, accomplishments, and challenges.
Dementia Care
November 01, 2010 A Review of the Dementias Related to Alzheimer's Disease
We often read the phrase “Alzheimer's and related dementias.” I’d like to provide an up-to-date overview of some common “related dementias.”
Dementia Care
November 01, 2010 Regulation Updates Impacting Dementia/Alzheimer Therapy Intervention
As the health care industry attempts to battle rising costs and insure appropriate coverage for beneficiaries and regulations are becoming more restrictive.
Dementia Care
November 01, 2010 Serving People with Dementia: An Update "The Barrier to Serve May not Be What You Think!"
As the end of 2008 approaches, it’s time to sit down and review the happenings of the past year related to the provision of Dementia Therapy services.
Dementia Care
November 01, 2010 Preserving the Dignity of a Person With Alzheimer’s Disease
What contributes to loss of dignity when a person is afflicted with Alzheimer's or a related dementia? What are the consequences? Let's discuss.
Dementia Care
November 01, 2010 An Interdisciplinary Dementia Approach in Long-Term Care
Long-term care communities tend to be rooted in the medical model—simply meeting nursing and medical needs at the expense of quality of life needs.
Dementia Care
November 01, 2010 Assessment and Scoring of Higher Functioning Patients Using the LACLS and Routine Task Inventory
Often the administration and scoring of higher level patients is a challenge. For one, these are individuals who are typically independent in routine ADLs.
Dementia Care
October 29, 2010 Top 5 Home Care Assessment Tips for Therapists
Providing therapy at home can be challenging and rewarding. These strategies can help you discover what a patient needs and what their support systems are.
Dementia Care
October 29, 2010 New Diagnosis to Support Cognitive Intervention
Code 780.93 gives experienced therapists an opportunity to further diagnose mild cognitive impairment and dementia.
Dementia Care
October 29, 2010 Initial Assessment Process Recommendations
We are often asked which order the Allen assessments should be administered to achieve the best results. Claudia Allen suggests this process.
Dementia Care
October 29, 2010 Identifying Opportunities to Serve Individuals With Dementia
I continue to be disappointed in the inadequate therapy intervention that I see occurring for a resident of a long-term care environment who has dementia.
Dementia Care
October 29, 2010 Home Health Care: Addressing Behavioral Issues in the Person With Dementia
When caregivers provide total care, they unwittingly remove clients’ sense of independence. We call this excess disability. How do we respond?
Dementia Care
October 29, 2010 Middle Stage Dementia: Learning to Identify Allen Level 3 Modes in Functional Activities
The topic for this month is focused on successfully serving the person who is functioning in the Middle Stage of dementia.
Dementia Care
October 29, 2010 Early Indicators of Mild or Early Stage Dementia
Early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s and related dementias can enable physicians to prescribe a cognitive enhancing medication such as Aricept.
Behavioral Health
October 29, 2010 A Quick Trick for Verbal Intervention
So you know that the tone, volume, and cadence of your voice impacts someone's behavior. Now try this and see how it helps you prevent a crisis.
Dementia Care
October 29, 2010 The "Progressively Lowered Stress Threshold" Model—Understanding and Minimizing Challenging Behavior
The Progressively Lowered Stress Threshold Model can provide a frame or reference to understand and reduce the challenging behaviors associated with ADRD.
Dementia Care
October 29, 2010 Using Allen Cognitive Theory in Acute Geriatric Psychiatry
These guidelines for implementing the Allen Theory from the occupational therapy perspective can be adapted to other settings and as treatment methods.
Dementia Care
October 29, 2010 Using MDS Data to Guide Your Dementia Therapy Practice
How many people in your facility are reported to have Alzheimer's or related dementias? There is a way to find out.
Dementia Care
October 29, 2010 Determining Capacity as It Relates to Financial and Legal Transactions
As people live longer due to advancements in medicine, the percentage of persons with dementia rise. Alzheimer's is now being considered an epidemic.
Dementia Care
October 29, 2010 A Discussion of Cognitive Screening Instruments and Executive Functions
It’s imperative that a therapist/facility have a procedure to proactively identify cognitive impairment as we can’t rely on early diagnosis or self-reports.
Dementia Care
October 29, 2010 A Current Discussion of The Allen Cognitive Disabilities Model and Our Ability to Serve Persons
I would like to share two important items discussed in the recent Allen Cognitive Network Board in February 2007 with the members of this community.
Dementia Care
October 29, 2010 Using Clinical Reasoning to Avoid Denials for Interventions Related to Cognitive Impairment
Medical necessity, reasonable and necessary, and the need for skilled therapy must be evident when a claim is reviewed.
Dementia Care
October 29, 2010 Tips to Reduce Bathing and Showering Challenges—A Therapist's Role
Professional and family caregivers often report bathing the most challenging area of dementia care. Here are some strategies to make things easier.
Dementia Care
October 29, 2010 The Adapted FAST: Introduction and Application
FAST, standing for Functional Assessment Staging Tool, is a tool designed by Dr. Barry Reisberg to assess the stage of dementia of people with Alzheimer's.
General
October 27, 2010 What's in a Face? Adaptations of the CPI Classroom Model for Teaching Hearing Impaired Participants
How can we understand the concept of tone, volume, and cadence in a different light when considering deaf and hearing impaired participants?
General
October 27, 2010 Training Staff with Varying Abilities and Special Needs
Training staff with special needs adds complexity to teaching the Nonviolent Crisis Intervention® program. Get creative as you adapt to participant needs.
General
October 27, 2010 Seven Signs A Weapon Is Being Concealed
Often the indicators that an individual is hiding a weapon go undetected. That’s why security professionals must be able to recognizes behaviors.
Education
October 27, 2010 More Than Just the "Restraint Class"
Staff know now that CPI training teaches us how to avoid physical intervention by focusing on early verbal intervention.
Human Services
October 27, 2010 Prevention as Public Policy
Former US Attorney General, Janet Reno, speaks about creative solutions to keep our troubled youth out of prisons.
Education
October 27, 2010 Out of the Classroom -- Into the Street -- Applying Classroom Management Techniques During Crise
Many classroom management techniques have become essential for successfully intervening with emotionally disturbed or behaviorally disordered students.
General
October 27, 2010 The Nonverbal Escalation Continuum
Dustin Hoffman as Raymond Babbet, an autistic savant in "Rainman," has brought a great deal of attention to the severe developmental disorder of autism.
Health Care
October 27, 2010 Adverse Effects Associated With Physical Restraint
This article reviews the literature concerning actual and potential causes of deaths proximal to the use of physical restraint.
General
October 27, 2010 Linguistic Barriers to Effective Communication
An effective dialogue with an individual who may be showing signs of anxiety can divert energy from an "acting out" scenario to a more rational one.
General
October 21, 2010 Who's In Control?
Whose behavior do I have to control first when a child starts screaming at me?
Behavioral Health
October 18, 2010 How to Stay Safe During Home Visits
The goal of MIAW is to encourage all NAMI organizations and affiliates to work together on mental illness outreach, education, and advocacy all year long.
General
October 13, 2010 Beyond the Slides: Using Audiovisuals Effectively
These simple yet powerful models help address unique needs of adult learners, which tend to cluster around three primary modes of information processing:
Education
September 28, 2010 Top 10 Positive Behavior Support (PBIS) Online Resources
We have compiled a list of the top 10 resources for you to explore with information that you can use within your own organization.
Dementia Care
September 20, 2010 The Use of Music in Dementia Care
For years I’ve been using music to reach into the memories of my clients with dementia. Learn the many benefits to using music as a therapeutic modality.
Dementia Care
September 20, 2010 Using Functional Assessments to Determine Mental Capacity in the Person With Dementia
Functional assessment scales describe patterns of behavior at all stages of dementia and provide reference for understanding how the disease may unfold.
Dementia Care
September 20, 2010 Psychiatric Illnesses in Persons With Dementia
Psychiatric problems can be a challenge when it comes to determining cognitive levels and treatment plans. Follow these steps to address this comorbidity.
General
September 17, 2010 What's In A Response?
“Give a rational response” is the underlying theme for every intervention CPI promotes. It's a commonsense strategy that works well when given a chance.
General
September 02, 2010 A Surprising Trick to Answering Challenging Questions
The person who knows the answer is the last person you might expect. Try this to put the brakes on never-ending questions and power struggles.
Dementia Care
August 12, 2010 Using Allen Cognitive Level Knowledge to Assess for MCI
Early recognition of executive skills deficits may assist in maintaining independence and quality of life for persons with Mild Cognitive Impairment.
Dementia Care
August 12, 2010 Providing Care and QOL for the Person in the Late Stages of Dementia Utilizing the Allen Cognitive Disabilities Theory
Though functional skills are lost, people with late-stage dementia continue to have the ability to feel loved or lonely, sad or happy and secure.
Dementia Care
August 12, 2010 Scanning the Environment
The concept of "scanning the environment" (the title of the Allen Cognitive Mode 4.6), is often misinterpreted.
Dementia Care
August 12, 2010 Advocating for the Use of the Cognitive Disabilities Model in Determining Capacity
Using the Allen Cognitive Disabilities Model developed by Claudia Allen may be the most accurate way to determine impairment in a client's capacity.
Dementia Care
August 12, 2010 Working With Families
When our clients have cognitive deficits, we need their families to become part of the treatment, cueing them to continue to perform at their best ability.
Dementia Care
August 12, 2010 Documentation of Therapy Services for Persons With Dementia in Home Care
Palmetto GBA published a policy to help home health agencies use Medicare to fund teaching and training for caregivers with Alzheimer’s patients.
Dementia Care
August 12, 2010 "Therapeutic Use of Self": The Concept of Action and Reaction in Dementia Care
Try the therapeutic use of self, and you have a tremendous key to making life better for someone with Alzheimer's—and less stressful for their caregivers.
Dementia Care
August 12, 2010 Monitoring of Medications Is Important in Behavior Management
Medications should always be evaluated when considering a possible cause for a change in behaviors or a decline in functional or cognitive status.
General
July 20, 2010 Who's On My Crisis Response Team?
What is a crisis response team? Who can be on it? How many staff are recommended for the team? How do you summon and utilize one?
Education
June 25, 2010 Keeping Students and Schools Safe
An expert on school violence who co-wrote the book Innocent Targets talks about the need for supportive adult bonds to create bullying-free school climates.
Education
June 25, 2010 The Importance of Taking a Strength-Based Perspective
Why are some people successful with students when others have given up? I believe it's because they have 8 strength-based behaviors that draw out success.
Human Services
June 25, 2010 Antidote to Learned Helplessness: Empowering Youth Through Service
A powerful practical reclaiming strategy for youth at risk is to tap their potential for serving others. This counters a sense of learned helplessness.
Human Services
June 01, 2010 Take Care, Not Take Down
As Certified Instructors, it is especially important to be mindful of what we say. We are role models, and staff follow our lead.
Behavioral Health
January 21, 2010 After We Lost Andrew
Andrew McClain, 11, died while he was restrained face down on the floor of a Connecticut psychiatric hospital.
Education
December 20, 2009 Reasons to Reduce the Use of Restraint
The practice of using restraint has been an integral part of programming in residential and public school settings for many years.
Education
November 30, 2009 You Can't Spell L-E-A-R-N-I-N-G Without Safety
If you ask people what the role of educators is, they would say to teach children. But that role takes a back seat to providing a safe learning environment.
Education
November 02, 2009 National Zogby Survey Reveals Trends in School Violence
CPI commissioned-study shows students more prone to violence—teacher training is critical in managing disruptive behavior.
Human Services
October 12, 2009 Too Late to Change a Decision
Jason had been staying at the alternative school for a couple of weeks when a panicked act of noncompliance cost him his life.