Presenter: Sarah Malavenda, LCSW 

Sarah Malavenda is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) who works with adults navigating challenges related to anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, sex, and relationships. She is passionate about providing supportive and affirming treatment, especially for neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ individuals. She uses an integrative approach, drawing from a variety of modalities such as CBT, DBT, Attachment Theory, Mindfulness, and Internal Family Systems. Sarah also has leadership experience in the mental health technology sector at an organization connecting prospective therapy clients with employer-sponsored care.

Learning Objectives

Learning Objective #1

Intro to AI & Mental Health: Participants will understand the foundational concepts of artificial intelligence and large language models, as well as current research on their impact on mental health.

Learning Objective #2

Self-Determination vs. Commitment to Clients: Participants will be able to identify ethical considerations for supporting clients who use AI while navigating tensions between client self-determination and the promotion of client well-being.

Learning Objective #3

Treatment Approaches & AI Use: Participants will be able to identify patterns of risky AI use and apply therapeutic interventions to help clients evaluate and modify their relationship with AI.

Technical Information:

Best Therapies is committed to protecting the confidentiality and security of participant information. Information collected through registration, payment, attendance verification, course participation, evaluations, and continuing-education records will be used only for program administration, communication, regulatory compliance, and the issuance of continuing-education documentation. If you have questions, concerns, grievances, or accessibility needs, please contact Training Director Kai Korpak at [email protected]. Live trainings with Best Therapies are delivered through Zoom. Participants must have access to an updated version of Zoom, a reliable internet connection, and working audio. Best Therapies is approved as a Registered Social Work Continuing Education Sponsor by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Sponsor License No. 159.001548; expiration date: November 30, 2027.