The 509 Public Sector
Training Program
The courses in our Training Program are free for SEIU Local 509 Public Sector state workers. We offer live trainings (in person or virtually) and self-paced learning on virtual platforms.
Register for a Live Training
Enhance your skills and take the next step to success!
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Click on the arrow next to the training name to open the description.
Click on the registration link at bottom of the description.
Fill out the online registration form.
After registering, you’ll receive a confirmation email within one business day. Please note, ADA accommodations are available upon request. Simply indicate the accessibility services you need on the training registration form at least 2 weeks before the training date. Take the first step and explore upcoming trainings below!
Didn’t receive a confirmation email or need help registering? Please Contact Us
Advanced Practice Institute
Our Advanced Practice Institute offers career-focused programs that help workers access certifications, CEUs, PDPs, and other training and professional development focused on career specialization.
Open the description of the training to find the registration link.
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Date: August 11, 2026
Time: 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Trainer: Suzy Langevin, LICSW, LADC I
Location: Virtual on Zoom
The experience of trauma shapes more than just our reaction to that single event. It shapes how we understand and make sense of the world around us, on a brain and body level. That’s why it is essential for human service practitioners to understand these connections, and to operate from a place that is trauma-informed and resiliency-focused, one that acknowledges and honors the impact of trauma while also cultivating the safety and support necessary to promote growth and healing. This three-hour training will provide an overview of the model of trauma-informed care, including the history and development of the body of research that helps us understand the impacts of trauma, the tenants of trauma-informed care, and the importance of promoting resilience.
Following this training the participants will understand:
The NEAR science of trauma and resilience, how trauma impacts the brain and body.
The rationale for a “universal precautions” approach that uses TIC at all organizational levels, from individual interactions to systems decisions.
Ways to integrate a more trauma-informed approach into our work, regardless of setting.
Credits:
3 CE credits approved for Certified Rehabilitation Counselors and MA Licensed Mental Health Counselors
2.5 CE credits approved for MA Social Workers
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Date: September 16, 2026
Time: 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Trainer: Ayala Livny, M. Ed. and Liz Geisel, MSW
Location: Virtual on Zoom
Harm Reduction is both a philosophy and a set of strategies for reducing the harm caused by a behavior. Though often discussed in the context of substance use or sexual risk, the philosophy and strategies can be utilized in discussions around any behavior that has a negative consequence to an individual or a community. This training will explore the history and guiding principles of Harm Reduction, and participants will explore how to develop a Harm Reduction approach in working with clients, and apply concepts and strategies in case studies.
Following this training the participants will understand:
Describe the core principles and historical foundations of Harm Reduction.
Explain how Harm Reduction differs from abstinence-only or compliance-based approaches across a range of behaviors.
Apply Harm Reduction strategies to real-world client situations to reduce risk and promote safety.
Evaluate case examples to determine how Harm Reduction approaches can support engagement, autonomy, and incremental change.
Credits:
3 CE credits approved for Certified Rehabilitation Counselors
2.5 CE credits approved for MA Licensed Social Workers
Application has been submitted for CE credits for Licensed Mental Health Counselors. Contact us at info@509training.org with any questions.
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Date: September 24, 2026
Time: 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Trainer: Suzy Langevin, LICSW, LADC I
Location: Virtual on Zoom
The training will provide an overview of the Illness Management and Recovery practice, including the importance of integrating a recovery-oriented philosophy into the delivery of the model.
IMR is an evidence-based practice created for people who experience symptoms related to Schizophrenia, Bipolar, Schizoaffective, and Depression. This manualized treatment that supports people in setting personalized goals, and application of various skills learned in the eleven topic areas covered in the treatment. Practitioners use a variety of best practices that support this process, including Psychiatric Rehabilitation, CBT, Motivational Enhancement and Educational strategies.
The IMR model is rooted in empowerment, helping people envision their future with hope and possibility. IMR teaches participants skills in problem solving, goal setting, and self-management strategies.
With over 15 years of experience implementing IMR in a variety of treatment settings, our trainer emphasizes a balance between personalized, creative interventions and fidelity to the practice and aims to help all participants develop their unique style as an IMR practitioner.
Following this training the participants will understand:
The core ingredients of the IMR practice.
The main take-home messages of the practice.
Key elements of fidelity to the IMR model.
Examples of what the IMR looks like in practice.
Ideas on providing this treatment in various settings.
Credits:
3 CE credits approved for Certified Rehabilitation Counselors and MA Licensed Mental Health Counselors
2.5 CE credits approved for MA Social Workers
Languages and Cultures
Trainings in this category aim to expand workers’ awareness of the languages and cultures represented in the Commonwealth.
Open the description of the training to find the registration link.
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Dates: Tuesdays & Thursdays, June 23 - August 13, 2026
Time: 3:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Trainer: Jaclyn Browning, M. Ed.
Location: Virtual on Zoom
Overview: This 16-hour course is an introductory Spanish course that does not require any background knowledge in the Spanish language. The course is focused on practicing speaking and listening skills in Spanish in human service settings, general community outreach, and developing cultural competency for engaging with people who speak Spanish.
Attendance at 13 of 16 classes is required to earn a certificate.
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Dates: September 10 and 17, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Trainer: Signing Basics
Location: Virtual on Zoom
Overview: In this two-part workshop, participants will learn more about the culture of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community and some functional signs to effectively communicate with Deaf and Hard of Hearing clients and their families.
Part 1: Deaf Culture: An overview of the culture and the unique characteristics found among people within the D/deaf community. Also, you will learn about the ADA, legal issues and deaf patient rights. Participants will practice with role plays on engaging with people in the D/deaf community.
Part 2: Functional Sign Language for Human Services Staff: Train with a live, experienced ASL instructor with a focus on the signs you need to communicate with colleagues and clients.
Learning Objectives:
Overview the culture and unique characteristics found among people within the D/deaf community.
Learn about the ADA, legal issues and deaf patient rights.
Practice with role plays on engaging with people in the D/deaf community in appropriate culturally responsive ways.
Finger spelling in American Sign Language
Common signs to communicate with colleagues and clients for human service contexts
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Dates: Tuesdays & Thursdays from September 19 through November 19, 2026
Time: 4:15 - 5:15 p.m.
Trainer: Jaclyn Browning, M. Ed.
Location: Virtual on Zoom
Overview:
This 16-hour course is an introductory Spanish course that does not require any background knowledge in the Spanish language. The course is focused on practicing speaking and listening skills in Spanish in human service settings, general community outreach, and developing cultural competency for engaging with people who speak Spanish.
Attendance at 13 of 16 classes is required to earn a certificate.
Learning Objectives:
Identify words, phrases, and basic information aligned with human services work
Respond to culturally diverse colleagues, clients, and community members by expressing curiosity and empathy
Ask and respond to memorized questions
Provide simple, basic, prepared information in culturally appropriate ways
Recognize and identify factors that contribute to individual and cultural identities
Registration Opens August 10
Wellness and Sustainability
Our Wellness and Sustainability program is centered on personal and team sustainability amid trauma stewardship and stressful caseloads. The program aims to provide resources to help workers monitor and mitigate the impact of work stress that can lead to burnout.
Open the description of the training to find the registration link.
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Date: July 15, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Facilitator: Amy Ebbeson, Trauma Specialist, Licensed Social Worker, and Kelsey Hopkins, Joy Coach, Public Health Professional, and International Development and Social Change Scholar
Location: Virtual on Zoom
Mental health is shaped by more than individual choices—it is influenced by our relationships, experiences, environments, and communities. This workshop explores the impact of trauma, stigma, identity, and connection on mental well-being while highlighting practical ways to build resilience, strengthen relationships, and support both ourselves and others.
Learning Outcomes:
1. Describe how trauma, stress, and stigma can affect mental health and behavior.
2. Recognize the role of connection, empathy, and belonging in promoting wellness.
3. Identify signs of vicarious stress and strategies for maintaining personal well-being.
4. Apply resilience-building practices that support long-term mental health.
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Date: August 12, 2026
Time: 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Facilitator: Amy Ebbeson, Trauma Specialist, Licensed Social Worker, and Kelsey Hopkins, Joy Coach, Public Health Professional, and International Development and Social Change Scholar
Location: Virtual on Zoom
Stress is unavoidable, but suffering doesn't have to be. This interactive workshop introduces practical tools that can help participants manage stress, regulate emotions, improve focus, and respond more effectively during challenging moments. Participants will explore strategies such as breathing exercises, reframing, self-compassion, and time management while creating a personalized self-regulation toolkit they can use at work and beyond.
Learning Outcomes:
Recognize common signs of stress and nervous system activation.
Practice self-regulation strategies that promote emotional balance and focus.
Identify coping tools and strategies that can be incorporated into daily routines.
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Date: September 9, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Facilitator: Jorge C. Armesto, Ph.D., C-IAYT, Clinical Psychologist & Yoga Therapist
Location: Virtual on Zoom
Designed to introduce participants to the concept and benefits of mindfulness as a tool for well-being. This program aims to pique interest in mindfulness and encourage further exploration. It assumes that participants have no previous experience with mindfulness practices. Participants will be given tools they can use every day in a variety of settings.
Learning Outcomes:
Define mindfulness and understand its foundations in present-moment awareness and non-judgment.
Experience and reflect on core mindfulness practices (e.g., body scan, breath awareness).
Recognize the role of mindfulness in reducing stress and increasing emotional regulation.
Identify simple ways to integrate mindfulness into everyday life.
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Date: September 18, 2026
Time: 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Facilitator: Jorge C. Armesto, Ph.D., C-IAYT, Clinical Psychologist & Yoga Therapist
Location: Virtual on Zoom
Work can be demanding, especially in roles shaped by high expectations, limited resources, and ongoing uncertainty. Many workers experience stress, exhaustion, and emotional strain as part of their day-to-day lives, particularly in environments affected by systemic inequities. This one-hour session is designed as a supportive space that blends practical learning with shared reflection and acknowledging the real pressures human service workers face.
Rather than a traditional lecture, the session offers participants an opportunity to pause, connect, and access tools that support emotional regulation and well-being.
Using trauma-sensitive mindfulness practices, participants will be introduced to simple, accessible strategies for noticing stress responses, grounding in the present moment, and reducing emotional overwhelm. The session also emphasizes the role of collective care, recognizing that healing and resilience are often strengthened through connection, shared experience, and mutual support.
Participants are invited to engage at their own comfort level. The session functions both as a skills-based learning experience and a drop-in support space, honoring the realities of workers’ lives while offering practical tools that can be used on the job and beyond.
Learning Outcomes:
Identify common signs of stress and emotional overload in themselves and others, particularly in the context of demanding or inequitable work environments.
Practice at least one trauma-sensitive mindfulness or grounding technique that can be used during moments of distress, fatigue, or emotional intensity.
Describe how connection, shared experience, and collective care can support emotional well-being and resilience among workers.
Recognize that seeking support and using regulation tools are strengths, not weaknesses, and part of sustaining long-term health and capacity.
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Date: September 22, 2026
Time: 9:30 - 11:00 a.m.
Trainer: Suzy Langevin, LICSW, LADC I
Location: Virtual on Zoom
Talking about mental health can feel overwhelming at times, especially with so much information and misinformation about mental health presented in both traditional and social media. Designed for the general public, these 90-minute conversations will provide an overview of different clinical presentations, providing accurate and empathic information about the impact of these mental health issues, and give participants a deeper understanding of living with these challenges.
Following this training, participants will understand:
Understand the common symptoms of depression
Learn about the different ways depression can present across different ages and
Explore treatment options and resources to learn more
Frequently Asked Questions
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There are no costs associated with these training sessions. All offerings are free to SEIU Local 509 Public Sector state workers.
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Members will not have to take personal time off for these training sessions. Please follow the guidelines of your agency for requesting time for professional development or training.
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It is always advisable to check in with your supervisor when planning to attend training. You may sign up for training in advance. If you are unable to attend for any reason, please let us know by contacting us at 509commtraining@seiuesf.org.
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Email confirmations will be sent by the end of the business day. If you register after 4 p.m. Eastern Time or on a weekend day, you will receive confirmation by the end of the following business day.
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Yes, all of the details needed for each session are contained within the confirmation. Please note that you may receive additional information from the training provider ahead of the training session.
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Yes, you can register for more than one course at a time. Please note that many of these courses will repeat as the training series continues, so we encourage you to spread out your participation over time. Spreading out participation will allow the most members to participate at one time.
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Yes, some trainings will offer CEUs. Please refer to specific training descriptions for CEU information.
“ It was a very good training and I loved the presenters!! I learned so much and it gave the a more more appreciation and understanding of the community and the language!! THANK YOU so much! "
- Local 509 Member
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