GLGPS is known for its outstanding programming. Throughout the decades we have hosted remarkable speakers of all backgrounds from renowned experts in the field of group work to early career professionals with a niche offering of interest to our members. Much of our programming incorporates experiential components because we believe that learning-by-doing is the most effective way to internalize a new approach. In addition, we are offering more free or low-cost social/networking opportunities to help us reconnect in our post-COVID isolation. Tell us here what you would like to see more of.

We want our quality events to be accessible to people of all means. In service of this goal, we offer generous scholarships to offset the cost of event registration fees. Hope to see you at our next event!

Upcoming Events

Great Lakes Symposium – August 10, 2024

The Invisible Struggle:

Bias Awareness and Self-Development in Working with BIPOC Clients

GLGPS is pleased to welcome Brandon “Diggs” Williams, founder of The Diggs Method, to present our next GLS! Mr. Williams will provide information related to the development and manifestations of prejudice, discrimination, and racism. Participants will be empowered to develop bias awareness through introspection and self-analysis so they may better serve their indigenous clients and clients of color. Challenges inherent to both the provider and client will be addressed. This training will involve both psychoeducation and opportunities to process.

 Saturday August 10, 2024 9:00am to 1:00pm CDT

Virtual Event Via Zoom

3 CEUs available

Meet Our Presenter

Brandon “Diggs” Williams, LCSW, CGP

Mr. Williams is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and currently works full-time at the Durham VA Medical Center (DVAMC). He provides individual, couples, and (primarily) group therapy through the VA. He received his Bachelor of Social Work degree in 2005 (UNCG), his Master of Social Work in 2012 (JMSW Program), and his clinical license in 2012. Mr. Williams carries a national certification in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Depression. He also specializes in personal/spiritual development, transformative thinking, and cultural competency with a focus on the Black community.​

Mr. Williams is involved in multiple efforts that contribute to ally-ship, diversity and inclusion, and anti-Black racism efforts at the departmental and facility level at the Durham VA. He created, developed, and facilitates “The Invisible Struggle” therapeutic group which focuses on providing clinical mental health care for veterans dealing with stress unique to Black people in America. He also serves on multiple boards/teams at the DVAMC including: The Antiracism and Black Equity Advisory Board, the Diversity and Inclusion Workgroup, and the Social Work Service Social Justice Committee. Mr. Williams has provided consultation to supervisors from entry level to the director of the Durham VA and the executive leadership team.​

Mr. Williams is a Racial Equity Institute Alumni, has participated in their Black and White caucuses, and continues to contribute to the cause of equity when possible. He has also created and leads a community organization called “Lion Tamers” that is dedicated to the holistic development of Black men. This development takes place mainly in “Sharpening Sessions” which are small groups held virtually. During these sessions focus is placed on education, fellowship, and general support. He currently serves on the board of AGPA and led an institute at Connect 2024.

Leader As Member: Practical Skill Set for Connecting Across Difference 

TWO-DAY INSTITUTE – AUGUST 2023

Presented by Darryl Pure, PhD, ABPP, CGP & Christine Carpenter, PsyD, CGP

Darryl Pure and Christine Carpenter presented a model of leadership based on the Interpersonal Dynamics class they teach at the University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business. A growing body of research shows that the most effective leadership style combines unique expertise with the ability to bring ones authentic self to the role. Clinicians are often taught to keep their “selves” out of the therapy space. But this perpetuates a power imbalance that may inhibit the growth potential of the client, particularly for BIPOC and members of other marginalized groups. In this two-day workshop the presenters will demonstrated the power of modeling vulnerability and self-disclosure in service of creating deeper trust and true safety.

Free Happy Hour in Chicago!

June 23, 2023

Time Out Market – 916 W. Fulton Market

Thank you so much to everyone who came out for our Happy Hour! The weather was gorgeous, the view was beautiful and the excitement to be connecting in person around group work was palpable. Many attendees expressed a wish for regular opportunities to gather socially so keep checking back here for more events like this.

Past Events

Stop “Shoulding” on Yourself:  Identifying the Roots of

Shame-Fueled Behavior

June 2022

Presented by Carmen Burlingame, LCSW

This workshop centered on the case for and benefit of a psychoeducational group on the topic of shame. The presenter provided examples of the curriculum and content that was cultivated for this GLS. Case examples were provided from both an in-person and online iteration of the group to explore the benefits of both formats. Attendees had the opportunity for didactic and experiential learning within this workshop. The presenter provided examples for ways in which psychoeducational groups can benefit individuals as a stand-alone group and as a potential feeder for process groups. 2 CEUs available upon completion of the workshop requirements.

Introduction to Psychodrama:  The Magic of Growth and Change

February 2022

Presented by Shelley Korshak Firestone, MD, FAGPA, CP, PAT

Psychodrama is perhaps our most powerful and effective tool in our therapeutic arsenal. This largely experiential workshop presents the history, theory, and technique of psychodrama. It will teach techniques invaluable for individual, family, couple, and group psychotherapy and for anyone interested in self-improvement. The participants of this workshop will have the opportunity to experience the magic of growth and change, while gaining training and expertise in basic psychodrama techniques.