Kinship Connections: Kin Raising Kin
2026-06-10 12:00 - 13:00, 2026-06-17 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York)
Are you an aunt, uncle, cousin, sister, or brother raising a relative?
You’re not alone—and you don’t have to navigate this journey by yourself. Raising children as a relative (other than a grandparent) comes with its own unique challenges. Aunts, uncles, cousins, and siblings often face different struggles than grandparents—whether it’s juggling work and parenting at various stages of life, blending kinship children with your own kids, or adjusting to the sudden changes in your family dynamic.
That’s why we created Kinship Connections: Kin Raising Kin Group—a welcoming space designed specifically for relatives who are not grandparents. This group focuses on the needs, challenges, and strengths that matter most to you, offering a place to share experiences, find encouragement, and connect with others who truly understand your perspective.
This group is led by Janie Murphy, a seasoned Kinship Care provider with over two decades of lived and professional experience supporting children and families through complex transitions. Janie is concerned in helping children by understanding their behaviors and practicing restorative care. As a caregiver, Janie facilitates compassionate guidance when things can feel very uncertain—offering stability, affirmation, and support. Janie believes the kinship caregiver needs to be supported and encouraged to be their own family advocate.
REGISTER HERE
This group meets every Wednesday at 12 PM EST through zoom and is a great time to meet other caregivers raising relative children. Join us for supportive time to talk and bring your lunch! We are excited to meet you!

Practicum Info Session
2026-06-10 15:00 - 16:00, 2026-06-17 15:00 - 16:00
Launch your social work career through your practicum experience—formerly known as field education. Attend an information session to learn about the process, opportunities, and support available as you prepare for hands-on learning in real-world settings.
The UK College of Social Work is affiliated with approximately 3,000 agencies across the United States, offering flexible placements in schools, hospitals, with advocacy groups, and in many other settings. During your placement, you will gain valuable experience, build your professional network, and have the opportunity to explore specialized paths, including clinical social work, child welfare, and substance use recovery.
At the UK College of Social Work, students drive their practicum journey, with the ability to select or propose placement sites that align with their goals. Advising and mentorship are built in to help you succeed before and after graduation.
Register for an information session to learn how your practicum experience will support your goals and open doors to meaningful, impact-driven work.
REGISTER HERE

*Attendees should register for virtual Practicum Info Sessions in advance. All times are EST. Sessions occur on Wednesdays at either noon or 3:00 (they are not offered when the University of Kentucky offices are closed, and classes are not in session).

The Gathering Spot – Thursday Meeting
2026-06-11 18:30 - 19:30, 2026-06-18 18:30 - 19:30
The Gathering Spot is a great NEW way to meet other kinship caregivers from the comfort of your own home and has been designed to be a spot where you can come for as long as you would like to meet other kinship caregivers, make a friend or two, and gain valuable information to help you in your kinship journey!
This is not strictly a support group, this is a virtual meeting space designed to connect caregivers together and create a kinship community, so that you can learn about important resources or information essential in your kinship journey.
Facilitator: Meet Christy Vincent, your Gathering Spot facilitator! Christy has been a kinship caregiver since 2017, when she began caring for her grandson. Christy reports this journey has been both the “most challenging and most rewarding experience” she has had in her life. Christy is passionate about kinship care and wants all kinship caregivers to know they are not alone in this journey and, even though it can be stressful, can walk this journey with joy, excitement, and love. Christy is a certified KY-KINS Peer Support Specialist and her goal is to ensure kinship caregivers have all the resources they need to feel supported and empowered!
This connection meeting is offered every week on Thursdays at 6:30 pm EST. Come and get connected!!
Register on the CoSW LMS website

Mary Jo Dendy’s Kinship Group
2026-06-11 19:00 - 20:00
This group is an opportunity for kinship caregivers to come together to find support, community, and resources in the care of relative and fictive children. This group will focus on the day to day issues involving relative and fictive kin care and will be shaped by the identified needs of group participants. This Group is open to any kinship caregiver and we welcome you to attend! This Support Group will meet monthly on the second Thursday of the month at 7 pm .
If you have any questions about this event, please email sheila.rentfrow@uky.edu or KINmaryjodendy@gmail.com or call 859-257-4785.
Register on the CoSW LMS website.

Stress Management for Caregivers
2026-06-12 18:00 - 19:30
Stress Management for Caregivers will equip foster/adoptive parents with tools to understand what stress and caregiver burnout is, and how to cope with the unique stressors of being foster/adoptive families. The training will equip foster and adoptive parents with coping skills when stress and burnout do occur.

After completing this training, participants will be able to:

Recognize the signs of physical, emotional, or psychological stress and burnout in themselves and others.

Utilize coping skills to decrease stress and burnout.

ASK-VIP trainings are expressly designed to meet the needs of foster and adoptive parents. Skilled trainers who have lived experiences with fostering and adoption provide these trainings in a virtual group setting. There is 1.5 hours of ongoing, elective foster parent training credit available for Kentucky’s foster parents.
REGISTER HERE
Create an account or log-in to register for this training. A reliable internet connection and a smartphone, tablet, or computer with web camera is needed to participate. If there are two adults in the same household that want to participate in this training, each person must register separately. Foster parent training credit is administered based on the duration of the meeting and each attendee’s participation. Training credit is only available if you have not participated in this training within the past twelve months.
If you have any questions about this training or how to register, please email ask@uky.edu or call 859-257-7361.

Healing After A Foster Child Leaves Your Home
2026-06-13 10:30 - 12:00 | Virtual through LMS, 619 Patterson Office Tower, Lexington, KY, 40506, United States
Healing After a Foster Child Leaves Your Home will equip foster parents understand, cope with and heal from the unique pain of a foster child leaving their home. It offers strategies and ideas to help parents work through the emotions associated with this type of loss and encourage healing. This training also provides ideas of where to find resources to aid in healing.
After completing this training, participants will be able to:
Discuss the grieving process and common obstacles to healing associated with a foster child leaving the home
Utilize strategies to help aid in their grieving process
ASK-VIP trainings are expressly designed to meet the needs of foster and adoptive parents. Skilled trainers who have lived experiences with fostering and adoption provide these trainings in a virtual group setting. There is 1.5 hours of ongoing, elective foster parent training credit available for Kentucky’s foster parents.
Create an account or log-in to register for this training. A reliable internet connection and a smartphone, tablet, or computer with web camera is needed to participate. If there are two adults in the same household that want to participate in this training, each person must register separately. Foster parent training credit is administered based on the duration of the meeting and each attendee’s participation. Training credit is only available if you have not participated in this training within the past twelve months.
Click Here to go to the registration page.
If you have any questions about this training or how to register, please email ask@uky.edu or call 859-257-7361.

Attachment and Bonding with Your Foster and Adopted Child
2026-06-13 21:00 - 22:30 | Virtual through LMS, 619 Patterson Office Tower, Lexington, KY, 40506, United States
Attachment & Bonding with your Foster & Adopted Child equips parents to enhance their relationship with foster/adopted children by teaching them the basics about bonding and attachment. This training also provides practical tips for promoting both bonding and attachment.
After completing this training, participants will be able to:
Articulate attachment styles and challenges to attachment often faced by foster/adopted children
Enhance attachment by utilizing strategies for bonding
ASK-VIP trainings are expressly designed to meet the needs of foster and adoptive parents. Skilled trainers who have lived experiences with fostering and adoption provide these trainings in a virtual group setting. There is 1.5 hours of ongoing, elective foster parent training credit available for Kentucky’s foster parents.
Create an account or log-in to register for this training. A reliable internet connection and a smartphone, tablet, or computer with web camera is needed to participate. If there are two adults in the same household that want to participate in this training, each person must register separately. Foster parent training credit is administered based on the duration of the meeting and each attendee’s participation. Training credit is only available if you have not participated in this training within the past twelve months.
Click Here to go to the registration page.
If you have any questions about this training or how to register, please email ask@uky.edu or call 859-257-7361.

Grief and Foster Care
2026-06-14 18:00 - 19:30 | Virtual through LMS, 619 Patterson Office Tower, Lexington, KY, 40506, United States
This course offers an exploration of the distinctive and complex grieving experience inherent in foster care and adoption, providing participants with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and emotions associated with this unique journey. The training will equip participants with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the intricacies of the foster care system, particularly focusing on the grieving process inherent in this environment. Participants will gain an in-depth understanding of the unique grieving experience associated with foster care.
By exploring the multifaceted layers of grief experienced by both foster children and caregivers, this course will shed light on the emotional complexities and dynamics surrounding loss within the foster care context.
ASK-VIP trainings are expressly designed to meet the needs of foster and adoptive parents. Skilled trainers who have lived experiences with fostering and adoption provide these trainings in a virtual group setting. There is 1.5 hours of ongoing, elective foster parent training credit available for Kentucky’s foster parents.
Create an account or log-in to register for this training. A reliable internet connection and a smartphone, tablet, or computer with web camera is needed to participate. If there are two adults in the same household that want to participate in this training, each person must register separately. Foster parent training credit is administered based on the duration of the meeting and each attendee’s participation. Training credit is only available if you have not participated in this training within the past twelve months.
Click Here to go to the registration page.
If you have any questions about this training or how to register, please email ask@uky.edu or call 859-257-7361.

MSW Info Session
2026-06-15 12:00 - 13:00 | https://socialwork.uky.edu/event/msw-info-session-13/
Explore our Master of Social Work (MSW) program during an online info session. Registration link is below.
Register through Zoom
The UK Difference
Our MSW program is an Advanced Generalist program that prepares students for social work practice across the micro-macro continuum with diverse populations.
Graduates of our program have the highest clinical licensing pass rates in Kentucky and routinely score above the national average, making our students uniquely poised to enter a competitive job market and make the most of forecasted growth within the social work profession.
Flexible Program Options
Choose from our regular (two year) or advanced (one year) standing options in a hybrid or fully online format.
Exceptional Career Support
Ensure a successful transition into advanced social work practice through our available career counseling, mentoring, and post-graduation support.
Unique Centers and Labs
Leverage our unique centers and labs, including the Training Resource Center, Interdisciplinary Research Center on Children and Families, Kentucky Kinship Resource Center, Self-Care Lab, Suicide Prevention and Exposure Lab, and Military Behavior Health Lab to enhance your learning and research.
Multiple Certificate Options
Earn specialized certifications in Clinical Social Work, Child Welfare, Military Behavioral Health, Integrative Behavioral Health, or Substance Use Disorder.

Register through Zoom

Healthy Boundaries: Strategies for Answering Tough Questions
2026-06-15 18:00 - 19:30 | Virtual through LMS, 619 Patterson Office Tower, Lexington, KY, 40506, United States
Healthy Boundaries: Strategies for Answering Tough Questions helps foster and adoptive parents understand the importance of setting boundaries in their lives. It explains the different types of boundaries (Physical and Emotional) and offers strategies and ideas to help parents work with children to build their own boundaries, especially when it comes to intrusive questions asked by classmates and strangers. This training also provides samples of questions foster and or adoptive children may be faced with.
After completing this training, participants will be able to:
Discuss how to set healthy boundaries to protect their wellbeing and that of their children.
Utilize strategies to help children in their home establish their own boundaries when asked intrusive questions by peers and strangers.
ASK-VIP trainings are expressly designed to meet the needs of foster and adoptive parents. Skilled trainers who have lived experiences with fostering and adoption provide these trainings in a virtual group setting. There is 1.5 hours of ongoing, elective foster parent training credit available for Kentucky’s foster parents.
Create an account or log-in to register for this training. A reliable internet connection and a smartphone, tablet, or computer with web camera is needed to participate. If there are two adults in the same household that want to participate in this training, each person must register separately. Foster parent training credit is administered based on the duration of the meeting and each attendee’s participation. Training credit is only available if you have not participated in this training within the past twelve months.
Click Here to go to the registration page.
If you have any questions about this training or how to register, please email ask@uky.edu or call 859-257-7361.

Creating Memories and Meaningful Family Traditions for Blended Families
2026-06-15 18:00 - 19:30 | Virtual through LMS, 619 Patterson Office Tower, Lexington, KY, 40506, United States
Creating Memories & Meaningful Family Traditions for Blended Families will inform parents of triggers children in their home may have and what they can do as parents to help create new memories that will add to their healing process. This training will also discuss activities and ideas for creating memories and new family traditions with the new children in their home to help create a positive family unit.
After completing this training, participants will be able to:

Create family traditions to foster a sense of belonging with children in their home.
Understand the importance of shared memories with children and how recording and remembering aids in their healing.

ASK-VIP trainings are expressly designed to meet the needs of foster and adoptive parents. Skilled trainers who have lived experiences with fostering and adoption provide these trainings in a virtual group setting. There is 1.5 hours of ongoing, elective foster parent training credit available for Kentucky’s foster parents.
Create an account or log-in to register for this training. A reliable internet connection and a smartphone, tablet, or computer with web camera is needed to participate. If there are two adults in the same household that want to participate in this training, each person must register separately. Foster parent training credit is administered based on the duration of the meeting and each attendee’s participation. Training credit is only available if you have not participated in this training within the past twelve months.
Click Here to go to the registration page.
If you have any questions about this training or how to register, please email ask@uky.edu or call 859-257-7361.

Transfer Tuesday
2026-06-16
Transfer Tuesdays at the UK College of Social Work
Thinking about transferring to the University of Kentucky? We’re making it easier to take the next step with Transfer Tuesdays. These are special application days where transfer students can apply with a completely waived application fee.
Whether you’re exploring a future in Social Work, Criminal Justice, or another path through the College of Social Work, Transfer Tuesdays are a great opportunity to begin your journey and save on application costs.
Eligible transfer students can submit their application at no cost on these select Transfer Tuesday dates.
Our team is here to help you navigate the transfer process, answer questions, and connect you with information about our academic programs and opportunities at UK.
Ready to learn more? Explore transfer information and program details by contacting us and take the next step toward becoming part of the UK community.
Start your transfer journey with us. We can’t wait to welcome you to UK.

The Gathering Spot
2026-06-16 12:00 - 13:00
The Gathering Spot is a great NEW way to meet other kinship caregivers from the comfort of your own home and has been designed to be a spot where you can come for as long as you have time to meet other kinship caregivers, make a friend or two and gain valuable information to help you in your kinship journey.
This is not a support group, this is a virtual meeting space designed to connect caregivers together and create a kinship community, so that you can learn about important resources or information essential in your kinship journey.
Facilitator: Meet Lory Scarberry, your Gathering Spot facilitator! She and her husband have been kinship caregivers for more than six years. They received custody of their granddaughter and a year later, their grandson. Caring for two children who are medically fragile brought about many unexpected challenges but mostly joy. After the death of the children’s mother, their daughter, in 2021, the placement became permanent. While this brought on another level of challenges, they have navigated each new day as a family through love. Lory is also KY-KINS Peer Support Specialist.
Lory believes her virtual kinship support community was an integral part of navigating her journey and shared that “The friendships I forged through my kinship community not only helped me in my time of need but some of them became lifelong friends that are still an active part of my life.”
Register on the CoSW LMS website.

This connection meeting is offered every week on Tuesday at 12 pm EST. Come and get connected!!

Fostering and Adopting At-Risk Children
2026-06-16 18:00 - 19:30 | Virtual through LMS, 619 Patterson Office Tower, Lexington, KY, 40506, United States
Fostering & Adopting At-Risk Children explores categories of at-risk behaviors among children and adolescents that may lead to negative consequences, like poor health, injury or death. It assists foster/adoptive parents with identifying as-risk behaviors and offers strategies to help address them.
After completing this training, participants will be able to:

Identify types of “at-risk” behaviors in youth.
Discuss strategies to problem solve “at–risk” behaviors to stabilize a child’s placement.

ASK-VIP trainings are expressly designed to meet the needs of foster and adoptive parents. Skilled trainers who have lived experiences with fostering and adoption provide these trainings in a virtual group setting. There is 1.5 hours of ongoing, elective foster parent training credit available for Kentucky’s foster parents.
Create an account or log-in to register for this training. A reliable internet connection and a smartphone, tablet, or computer with web camera is needed to participate. If there are two adults in the same household that want to participate in this training, each person must register separately. Foster parent training credit is administered based on the duration of the meeting and each attendee’s participation. Training credit is only available if you have not participated in this training within the past twelve months.
Click Here to go to the registration page.
If you have any questions about this training or how to register, please email ask@uky.edu or call 859-257-7361.

Learning to Communicate: Developing Social Skills
2026-06-16 21:00 - 22:30 | Virtual through LMS, 619 Patterson Office Tower, Lexington, KY, 40506, United States
Learning to Communicate: Developing Social Skills will equip parents to understand the process of communicating with children, teaching children to communicate with adults and peers, and developing interpersonal social skills. It offers strategies and ideas to help parents and children communicate with each other more effectively and offers strategies to help children in care specifically.
After completing this training, participants will be able to:

Utilize strategies to assist children in developing effective communication skills and communicate with their children more effectively.
Articulate types of social skills and assist children in developing these skills.

ASK-VIP trainings are expressly designed to meet the needs of foster and adoptive parents. Skilled trainers who have lived experiences with fostering and adoption provide these trainings in a virtual group setting. There is 1.5 hours of ongoing, elective foster parent training credit available for Kentucky’s foster parents.
Create an account or log-in to register for this training. A reliable internet connection and a smartphone, tablet, or computer with web camera is needed to participate. If there are two adults in the same household that want to participate in this training, each person must register separately. Foster parent training credit is administered based on the duration of the meeting and each attendee’s participation. Training credit is only available if you have not participated in this training within the past twelve months.
Click Here to go to the registration page.
If you have any questions about this training or how to register, please email ask@uky.edu or call 859-257-7361.

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders: Parenting a Child with an Invisible Disability
2026-06-17 18:00 - 19:30 | Virtual through LMS, 619 Patterson Office Tower, Lexington, KY, 40506, United States
Join our comprehensive training designed specifically for foster and adoptive parents to equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively support children affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). Led by our expert ASK liaisons, this training covers essential topics such as understanding FASD, recognizing its symptoms, implementing strategies for managing behavior, accessing resources and support networks, and promoting positive outcomes for children with FASD. With practical insights and evidence-based approaches, this training empowers parents to provide nurturing environments and tailored care for children with FASD, fostering resilience and optimal development.
ASK-VIP trainings are expressly designed to meet the needs of foster and adoptive parents. Skilled trainers who have lived experiences with fostering and adoption provide these trainings in a virtual group setting. There is 1.5 hours of ongoing, elective foster parent training credit available for Kentucky’s foster parents.
Create an account or log-in to register for this training. A reliable internet connection and a smartphone, tablet, or computer with web camera is needed to participate. If there are two adults in the same household that want to participate in this training, each person must register separately. Foster parent training credit is administered based on the duration of the meeting and each attendee’s participation. Training credit is only available if you have not participated in this training within the past twelve months.
Click Here to go to the registration page.
If you have any questions about this training or how to register, please email ask@uky.edu or call 859-257-7361.

Healthy Boundaries in Teenage Relationships
2026-06-17 19:30 - 21:00 | Virtual through LMS, 619 Patterson Office Tower, Lexington, KY, 40506, United States
Healthy Boundaries in Teenage Relationships explores healthy and unhealthy dating behaviors. It is designed to assist caregivers in identifying warning signs that a teen may be involved in an abusive dating relationship and provides suggestions for talking to teens and/or their friends who find themselves involved in such relationships.
After completing this training, participants will be able to:

Identify signs that a teen is being abused in a relationship
Explain strategies to address when a teen is being abused in a relationship.

ASK-VIP trainings are expressly designed to meet the needs of foster and adoptive parents. Skilled trainers who have lived experiences with fostering and adoption provide these trainings in a virtual group setting. There is 1.5 hours of ongoing, elective foster parent training credit available for Kentucky’s foster parents.
Create an account or log-in to register for this training. A reliable internet connection and a smartphone, tablet, or computer with web camera is needed to participate. If there are two adults in the same household that want to participate in this training, each person must register separately. Foster parent training credit is administered based on the duration of the meeting and each attendee’s participation. Training credit is only available if you have not participated in this training within the past twelve months.
Click Here to go to the registration page.
If you have any questions about this training or how to register, please email ask@uky.edu or call 859-257-7361.

DSW Info Session
2026-06-18 12:00 - 13:00
Turn Your Goals into Reality
Explore our Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) program during an online info session. Registration link is below.
The UK Difference
Our Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) program was developed with practitioners in mind. This high-quality, rigorous program prepares practitioners to navigate the complexities of a contemporary practice landscape by providing education and experiences congruent with advanced practice proficiency among specialized populations.

Anywhere, Anytime
Courses are taught online through asynchronous models with the exception of residency week during the summer, which is taught synchronously. An asynchronous option is available for those who cannot be in attendance.

Multiple Concentration Options
Choose from one of five concentrations: Administrative Leadership, Clinical Social Work, Social Work Education, Military Behavioral Health, or Sport Social Work.

Unique Centers and Labs
Leverage our unique centers and labs, including the Training Resource Center, Interdisciplinary Research Center on Children and Families, Kentucky Kinship Resource Center, Self-Care Lab, Suicide Prevention and Exposure Lab, and Military Behavior Health Lab to enhance your learning and research.

Efficient
Using an innovative Core Plus Model, our DSW program affords you an efficient and affordable way to earn your degree. From start to finish, you can complete the DSW degree in two to three years, depending on full-time or part-time status.

Register through Zoom, or through the link below under ‘Website’.

Hands on Treatment for Anxiety Disorders (6/18/2026) – Virtual
2026-06-18 13:00 - 16:15
Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health concerns encountered in clinical practice. This session supports clinicians in recognizing anxiety disorders in clients and developing treatment strategies to address symptoms that affect quality of life. Content includes an overview of the brain structures involved in anxiety as well as evidence-based treatment approaches such as CBT and techniques that activate the parasympathetic nervous system. Learning will be supported through handouts and worksheets that can be used in clinical settings, along with opportunities to practice relaxation techniques during the session.
Learning Outcomes
At the conclusion of this training, you will be able to:

Explain the biological mechanisms that contribute to anxiety and describe how physiological responses generate common symptoms.
Identify indicators of anxiety disorders in clients who present with varied or non-specific complaints.
Differentiate among four subtypes of anxiety disorders by comparing their defining features.
Apply intervention tools to support clients in managing symptoms and enhancing overall well-being.

Delivery Method
synchronous distance learning
Cost
$60
Credit Hours
3.0 (ACE)
Accreditation
University of Kentucky College of Social Work, Provider # 1377, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 9/29/25-9/29/28. Social workers completing this course receive 3 clinical continuing education credits.
Instructor
Barbara Hedspeth, LCSW
Dr. Barbara Hedspeth, LCSW ’s bio: Barbara Hedspeth, LCSW is currently in private practice in Louisville, Ky, where she specializes in the treatment of anxiety disorders and OCD. She has many years of experience working with a broad range of client populations and clinical presentations. She served as Clinical Director at Bridgehaven Mental Health Services, as well as other leadership and clinical roles at Our Lady of Peace Hospital. She worked as a supervisor and clinician at Family and Children’s Counseling Centers where she developed her interest in anxiety disorders in children and adults. She has worked with trauma at the YWCA Spouse Abuse Center where she was a therapist and Director of Shelter and Counseling Services. Prior to attending graduate school at Kent School of Social Work at University of Louisville, she worked in child protective services with foster care and adoptions. She is strong environmental advocate and sings in her church choir.

How to Claim Credit
You must sign in and out of the training, attend the training in its entirety and complete the evaluation.
Cancellation/Refund Policy
If this course is canceled, you will be contacted and given the option of a full refund, or course credit to be used within 1 year.
Click Here to go to the registration page.
Questions
Contact Christina.Krantz@uky.edu with any questions regarding this course, registration assistance or to request accommodations.

Hands on Treatment for Anxiety Disorders (6/18/2026) – In Person
2026-06-18 13:00 - 16:15 | UK Coldstream Research Campus, 1648 McGrathiana Pkwy, Lexington, KY, 40511, United States
Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health concerns encountered in clinical practice. This session supports clinicians in recognizing anxiety disorders in clients and developing treatment strategies to address symptoms that affect quality of life. Content includes an overview of the brain structures involved in anxiety as well as evidence-based treatment approaches such as CBT and techniques that activate the parasympathetic nervous system. Learning will be supported through handouts and worksheets that can be used in clinical settings, along with opportunities to practice relaxation techniques during the session.
Learning Outcomes
At the conclusion of this training, you will be able to:

Explain the biological mechanisms that contribute to anxiety and describe how physiological responses generate common symptoms.
Identify indicators of anxiety disorders in clients who present with varied or non-specific complaints.
Differentiate among four subtypes of anxiety disorders by comparing their defining features.
Apply intervention tools to support clients in managing symptoms and enhancing overall well-being.

Delivery Method
In Person
Cost
$60
Credit Hours
3.0 (ACE)
Accreditation
University of Kentucky College of Social Work, Provider # 1377, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 9/29/25-9/29/28. Social workers completing this course receive 3 clinical continuing education credits.
Instructor
Barbara Hedspeth, LCSW

Dr. Barbara Hedspeth, LCSW ’s bio: Barbara Hedspeth, LCSW is currently in private practice in Louisville, Ky, where she specializes in the treatment of anxiety disorders and OCD. She has many years of experience working with a broad range of client populations and clinical presentations. She served as Clinical Director at Bridgehaven Mental Health Services, as well as other leadership and clinical roles at Our Lady of Peace Hospital. She worked as a supervisor and clinician at Family and Children’s Counseling Centers where she developed her interest in anxiety disorders in children and adults. She has worked with trauma at the YWCA Spouse Abuse Center where she was a therapist and Director of Shelter and Counseling Services. Prior to attending graduate school at Kent School of Social Work at University of Louisville, she worked in child protective services with foster care and adoptions. She is strong environmental advocate and sings in her church choir.
How to Claim Credit
You must sign in and out of the training, attend the training in its entirety and complete the evaluation.
Cancellation/Refund Policy
If this course is canceled, you will be contacted and given the option of a full refund, or course credit to be used within 1 year.
Click Here to go to the registration page.
Questions
Contact Christina.Krantz@uky.edu with any questions regarding this course, registration assistance or to request accommodations.

Perceptions of Adoption: A Child’s Developmental View
2026-06-18 21:00 - 22:30 | Virtual through LMS, 619 Patterson Office Tower, Lexington, KY, 40506, United States
Perceptions of Adoption: A Child’s Developmental View will discuss the ways a child’s cognitive development skills and emotions develop, and how that impact his or her perceptions regarding adoption. This training provides information on how these perceptions change at each major developmental stage, along with how foster and adoptive parents can help children work through any issues that might arise.
After completing this training, participants will be able to:

Identify and articulate how children’s perceptions of adoptions change with each major developmental milestone.
Utilize strategies to identify common triggers or life events that may cause issues with a child’s understanding of adoption and help their child work through them.

ASK-VIP trainings are expressly designed to meet the needs of foster and adoptive parents. Skilled trainers who have lived experiences with fostering and adoption provide these trainings in a virtual group setting. There is 1.5 hours of ongoing, elective foster parent training credit available for Kentucky’s foster parents.
Create an account or log-in to register for this training. A reliable internet connection and a smartphone, tablet, or computer with web camera is needed to participate. If there are two adults in the same household that want to participate in this training, each person must register separately. Foster parent training credit is administered based on the duration of the meeting and each attendee’s participation. Training credit is only available if you have not participated in this training within the past twelve months.
Click Here to go to the registration page.
If you have any questions about this training or how to register, please email ask@uky.edu or call 859-257-7361.

Support Group with Kay
2026-06-21 18:00 - 19:00
ASK-VIP Support Groups are expressly designed to meet the needs of foster and adoptive parents in an inclusive, safe, and compassionate environment. They are led by seasoned facilitators who have lived experiences with fostering and adoption. If you’re seeking an opportunity to share resources, suggestions, frustrations and successes with those who share the unique experience of fostering and adoption, ASK-VIP is for you!
REGISTER HERE
Create an account or log-in to register for this support group. A reliable internet connection and a smartphone, tablet, or computer with web camera is needed to participate. If there are two adults in the same household that want to participate in this support group, each person must register separately.
If you have any questions about this support group or how to register, please email ask@uky.edu or call 859-257-7361.

Teaching Growth Mindset to Children
2026-06-21 18:00 - 19:30 | Virtual through LMS, 619 Patterson Office Tower, Lexington, KY, 40506, United States
Teaching Growth Mindset to Children introduces parents to the two types of mindsets and how beneficial it is for parents to help their children develop a growth mindset. This training will also cover a step-by-step outline for how to teach growth mindset to children over a four week period.
After completing this training, participants will:

Learn how to differentiate between growth and the fixed mindset.​
Think about what type of mindset you have.​
Learn how to teach growth mindset techniques to children of all ages.​

ASK-VIP trainings are expressly designed to meet the needs of foster and adoptive parents. Skilled trainers who have lived experiences with fostering and adoption provide these trainings in a virtual group setting. There is 1.5 hours of ongoing, elective foster parent training credit available for Kentucky’s foster parents.
Create an account or log-in to register for this training. A reliable internet connection and a smartphone, tablet, or computer with web camera is needed to participate. If there are two adults in the same household that want to participate in this training, each person must register separately. Foster parent training credit is administered based on the duration of the meeting and each attendee’s participation. Training credit is only available if you have not participated in this training within the past twelve months.
Click Here to go to the registration page.
If you have any questions about this training or how to register, please email ask@uky.edu or call 859-257-7361.

Grandparent’s Connection
2026-06-22 12:00 - 13:00
Grandparent’s Connection is a supportive gathering created just for grandparents raising grandchildren. This group offers a welcoming space to share experiences, find encouragement, and connect with others who understand the joys and challenges of kinship care. Together, we’ll celebrate successes, explore helpful resources, and build a strong circle of support so no one feels alone on this journey. Whether you’re seeking guidance, support, community, or simply a listening ear, Grandparent’s Connection is here for you.
This group will meet the 2nd and 4th Mondays of every month at 12:00 PM EST (noon). We look forward to meeting you!!
Facilitator Angel Hayes is a grandmother raising her teenage grandson who enjoys creative projects such as painting, scrapbooking, drawing, etc. and loves to meet and support others walking the kinship journey.
Register on the CoSW LMS website

Why Words Matter – The Importance of Positive Adoption Language
2026-06-22 17:00 - 18:30 | Virtual through LMS, 619 Patterson Office Tower, Lexington, KY, 40506, United States
Participants will delve into the recognition of positive adoption language and its vital importance in nurturing a nurturing and affirming environment for children. By understanding the impact of language on identity and self-worth, participants will explore how positive adoption language contributes to a child’s sense of belonging and self-esteem within their family and the broader community. The course will engage participants in discussions on how to sensitively address adoption, early life experiences, and cultural/racial diversity with the children in their care.
Strategies for effective communication and creating a safe space for these discussions will be explored, empowering participants to navigate these conversations with empathy, understanding, and cultural sensitivity.
ASK-VIP trainings are expressly designed to meet the needs of foster and adoptive parents. Skilled trainers who have lived experiences with fostering and adoption provide these trainings in a virtual group setting. There is 1.5 hours of ongoing, elective foster parent training credit available for Kentucky’s foster parents.
Create an account or log-in to register for this training. A reliable internet connection and a smartphone, tablet, or computer with web camera is needed to participate. If there are two adults in the same household that want to participate in this training, each person must register separately. Foster parent training credit is administered based on the duration of the meeting and each attendee’s participation. Training credit is only available if you have not participated in this training within the past twelve months.
Click Here to go to the registration page.
If you have any questions about this training or how to register, please email ask@uky.edu or call 859-257-7361.

Myths and Realities of Foster Care and Adoption
2026-06-22 19:30 - 21:00 | Virtual through LMS, 619 Patterson Office Tower, Lexington, KY, 40506, United States
Myths & Realities of Foster Care & Adoption enables parents to identify myths and realities related to foster care and adoption.
After completing this training, participants will be able to:

Identify myths that surround foster care and adoption and articulate accurate realities.
Interpret statistics to distinguish between foster care and adoption myths and facts.

ASK-VIP trainings are expressly designed to meet the needs of foster and adoptive parents. Skilled trainers who have lived experiences with fostering and adoption provide these trainings in a virtual group setting. There is 1.5 hours of ongoing, elective foster parent training credit available for Kentucky’s foster parents.
Create an account or log-in to register for this training. A reliable internet connection and a smartphone, tablet, or computer with web camera is needed to participate. If there are two adults in the same household that want to participate in this training, each person must register separately. Foster parent training credit is administered based on the duration of the meeting and each attendee’s participation. Training credit is only available if you have not participated in this training within the past twelve months.
Click Here to go to the registration page.
If you have any questions about this training or how to register, please email ask@uky.edu or call 859-257-7361.

Foster/Adoptive Parents of Teens Support Group
2026-06-22 20:00 - 21:00
ASK-VIP Support Group for Foster/Adoptive Parents of Teens is specifically designed for foster/adoptive parents who are caring for teenagers or those considering fostering and/or adopting teenagers. This support group offers an opportunity to share experiences, questions, resources, and concerns in a safe and compassionate environment. The support group is led by a seasoned foster/adoptive parent who has lived experience caring for teens.
REGISTER HERE
Create an account or log-in to register for this support group. A reliable internet connection and a smartphone, tablet, or computer with web camera is needed to participate. If there are two adults in the same household that want to participate in this support group, each person must register separately.
If you have any questions about this support group or how to register, please email ask@uky.edu or call 859-257-7361.
