Binghamton University Department of Social Work

09/04/2026

CONTINUING EDUCATION WORKSHOP in October 2026
Managing Difficult Group Therapy Participants: A Goal-Directed Approach
Friday, October 2, 2026 | 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Eastern Time (US & Canada)
Course number: NY20261002
Duration: 1 hour
Credits: 1 CEU
Practice area: Group Therapy — Advanced (Expert), Mid-Career (Intermediate)
Format: Live webinar

Workshop Description
This 1-hour continuing education training reframes how clinicians conceptualize and intervene with difficult participants in group therapy. Instead of viewing disruptive or disengaged behaviors as fixed personality problems, this approach applies a developmental engagement framework derived from George Vaillant's hierarchy of defense mechanisms. Participants will learn how to recognize behaviors as indicators of a participant's current stage of group engagement — from passive disengagement to active but nonreflective participation — and apply stage-matched interventions that promote group safety, cohesion, and therapeutic growth.

Through discussion, case vignettes, and reflection, the course helps clinicians move beyond behavioral labeling toward developmental understanding. Participants will gain practical strategies for regulating group dynamics, promoting reflective function, and utilizing the group itself as the core therapeutic intervention.

REGISTRATION LINK: https://naswny.socialworkers.org/Events/Events-Calendar/CEU-Schedule/CEU-Details/ArtMID/75511/ArticleID/7842/Managing-Difficult-Group-Therapy-Participants-A-Goal-Directed-Approach

08/18/2026

https://www.binghamton.edu/news/story/6392/binghamton-students-gain-insight-through-malawi-service-learning-trip

Through hands-on collaboration with Malawi Children’s Mission, students engage in strengths-based community work and gain lasting lessons in connection, cultural humility, and global citizenship.

06/09/2026

Assistant Professor of Social Work Monica Adams received the Distinguished Diversity Service Award at the Multicultural Resource Center's Cultural Recognition Ceremony last week. Congratulations, Dr. Adams! 🎉 💚 🏆

06/03/2026

📣 Professional Vacancy - Field Education Specialist

Please use the link below to view the details of the position.

05/15/2026

As another academic year comes to a close, we want to extend our sincere appreciation to the graduating members of the MSW Graduate Student Organization (GSO) Executive Board: Kearra Doheny, Lillian McCormack, Ashley Cicciarelli, Aly Ardell, Mia Cicoria-Timm, Emma Schockner, and Madison Mandarino.

They made a tremendous impact on the Department of Social Work through their leadership, advocacy, and commitment to their peers. From hosting regular Licensure Exam Trivia to organizing a wonderful year-end Char-CORD-erie celebration and formal, they created meaningful opportunities for connection and community building.

Beyond these events, this group consistently advocated for their fellow students and worked collaboratively to help create positive change within the Department. Their leadership, professionalism, and dedication have left a lasting mark on our community.

We are incredibly grateful for all they have contributed and cannot wait to see what comes next for each of them. Congratulations, graduates ... and thank you for your leadership! 🎓💚

05/12/2026

Please join us in congratulating our graduating BSW student, Debbie Zeleny, on receiving the prestigious SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence (CASE)!

The CASE award is the highest honor presented to students and recognizes outstanding achievement in academics, leadership, campus involvement, and community service.

Throughout her time at Binghamton University, Deborah has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to student support, mentorship, advocacy, and community engagement. In addition to excelling academically as a Social Work major, Debbie has served in numerous leadership and service roles across campus and the community, including through TRIO Student Support Services, the Education Club, campus programming, student mentorship, and her BSW internship in the Harpursville Central School District.

Please join us in congratulating, Debbie, on this well-deserved recognition!

04/28/2026

04/20/2026

During Spring Break, students and faculty from Binghamton University’s TRUST Program participated in a Rural Health Immersion Program in Malone, New York in collaboration with the Northern Area Health Education Center, Central New York Area Health Education Center, and Alice Hyde Medical Center.

Representing social work were faculty member Jackie McGinley and students Bridget Sheridan (MSW) and Abigail Beers (BSW), alongside an interdisciplinary group of faculty and students from other health-related professions.

Throughout the week, Abby, Bridget, and their colleagues engaged directly with the community, including shadowing healthcare providers, participating in panel discussions, and conducting a community-based survey on healthcare access and experiences. They presented their learning and findings to the community during an open forum at the conclusion of the program.

This is one example of how our social work students engage in hands-on, community-based learning beyond the classroom.

➡ Information about Binghamton University's TRUST Program: https://www.binghamton.edu/pharmacy-and-pharmaceutical-sciences/academics/pharmd/curriculum/trust/