In Person - WRC Empowering Clients: Stress Management & Healthy Coping Skills

Presenter's Bio:

Sarah is a highly experienced educator, facilitator, and addiction specialist with over two decades of
frontline experience supporting individuals, families, and communities across a range of mental
health and wellbeing contexts. Currently leading the Drug Education and Prevention Strategy (DEPS)
team at Limerick Youth Service, she specialises in the design and facilitation of workshops that
integrate trauma-informed, person-centred, and strengths-based approaches.Her academic and professional development includes a BA in Training Galway, diplomas in Addiction Studies and Youth & Community Work, and certification as a WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plan) facilitator. She also holds qualifications in Auricular Acupuncture and Group Facilitation and is trained in the Community Reinforcement Approach (CRA), Adolescent
CRA, and CRAFT (Community Reinforcement and Family Training).

Drawing on years of experience in youth work, restorative justice, addiction services, and adult education, She brings a nuanced understanding of stress, burnout, and emotional regulation — not only in clients, but also in helping professionals. Her workshops on Self-Care & Stress Managementprovide psychotherapists with practical, evidence-informed tools to support their own wellbeing, prevent burnout, and reflect on sustainable practice.Known for her grounded, engaging facilitation style, she creates reflective, inclusive learning spacesthat prioritise safety, empowerment, and experiential learning. Her sessions blend psychoeducationwith lived experience and are especially valuable for practitioners working in high-demand or emotionally intensive settings.

Event Outline: 

The core topics will include (but not limited to)

• Understanding Stress
• Defining stress, causes, and signs and symptoms
• The mind-body connection & the "fight or flight" response
• Health and long-term effects of stress
• Identifying Stressors
• Recognizing personal stressors and triggers
• Identifying practical supports that work for you
• Coping Mechanisms
• Relaxation Techniques Deep breathing, mindfulness, and meditation
• Cognitive Strategies Challenging negative thoughts, using positive thinking,
   & practicing cognitive restructuring
• Behavioural Strategies: Assertiveness, setting boundaries, time management,
   prioritizing tasks, and saying "no"
• Resilience and Prevention
• Developing a growth mindset and resilience to bounce back from challenges
• Discussing healthy lifestyle habits, including diet, exercise, and sleep

CPD Certs will be emailed to participants after attendance at the Event