Training and Technical Assistance Announcement

 

New Upcoming Trainings!


Cold Weather Training Series


CCEH will be offering several trainings as part of our Cold Weather Training Series. This series is designed to equip housing and homeless service providers with the skills, tools, and support needed during the busiest time of year as we serve those who are most vulnerable.


Additional trainings and dates will be shared as they are scheduled, so please stay tuned for upcoming opportunities to prepare for the winter season.

Verbal De-escalation and Crisis Intervention Training

December 11th, 2025


1:00 P.M. - 2:30 P.M.

This Verbal De-escalation and Crisis Intervention training is designed specifically for cold weather providers in the homeless response system. The session equips staff with practical communication strategies to de-escalate tense situations and respond to crises with empathy, professionalism, and confidence. Participants will learn how to recognize signs of distress, defuse conflict, and engage individuals in crisis with care and respect. The training aims to enhance safety, foster trust, and promote a compassionate, responsive approach to supporting people experiencing homelessness during the cold weather season.


*While this training is tailored for cold weather providers, all housing and homeless service providers are welcome to attend. The skills and techniques covered are applicable across a variety of settings and situations.


Presenters:

Stephanie Boyce, LCSW

Director of Homeless Prevention, Outreach and Food Access

Hands on Hartford


Evan Serio, LMSW

Director of Client Engagement & Quality Assurance

Downtown Evening Soup Kitchen, Inc



Connecticut's Crisis Service System for Adults

January 8th, 2026


3:00 P.M. - 4:30 P.M.

The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is a core component of the state's comprehensive crisis continuum, providing immediate, accessible, and person-centered support for individuals experiencing emotional distress, mental health challenges, or behavioral health crises. Connecticut's coordinated crisis system of care, which includes 988, mobile crisis teams, and the broader crisis response network, ensure timely intervention, stabilize urgent situations, and connect individuals to services in their communities. Crisis services play a critical role in preventing unnecessary hospitalization, reducing reliance on law enforcement for behavioral health emergencies, and ensuring that people receive compassionate, trauma-informed care at their moment of need.

 

By the end of this session, participants will be able to understand the structure of Connecticut’s Adult Crisis Service System, identify when and how to utilize 988 and mobile crisis services, describe the response process, understand what responders can provide, and strengthen collaboration across systems.

 

Presenters:

 

Erika Echevarria, LCSW

Behavioral Health Clinical Supervisor

CT Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services

Elders in Housing Programs

* To support different schedules, we’re offering the same training on both days. Please register for the date and time that works best for you.

January 14th, 2026


1:00 P.M. - 3:00 P.M.

January 15th, 2026


10:00 A.M. - 12:00 P.M.

Homeless and housing programs are increasingly supporting older adults who may be experiencing medical decline, cognitive impairment, behavioral health changes, or other forms of decompensation. Providers often have questions about when an elder is in crisis, how to respond, and which community systems can offer appropriate support. This training brings together experts from the field to provide a comprehensive overview of available resources and clarify how each program functions.

 

Participants will learn the real role and scope of Elderly Protective Services (EPS)—including debunking common myths and misunderstandings—along with practical guidance for making referrals and supporting client safety. The training will also introduce home care services available through DSS, how they can support aging tenants, and how they intersect with housing programs. Additionally, providers will gain an understanding of the DMHAS Nursing Home Diversion and Transition Program and how it can assist with complex medical, cognitive, or behavioral health needs.

 

The session concludes with a Q&A to ensure staff leave with clear, actionable information to navigate elder crises more confidently and effectively.

 

Presenters:

 

Amy Dumont, LCSW, Behavioral Health Clinical Manager

CT Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services

 

Effie Morris-Ferguson, Manager

CT Department of Social Services

 

Dorian Long, Social Services Program Administration Manager

CT Department of Social Services

*Please contact Amber Freeman at afreeman@cceh.org if you have any questions or concerns.

Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness

(860) 721-7876 | training@cceh.org | www.cceh.org

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