I was at the Partner Agency Conference today and took the opportunity to sketch the people in front of me.  I painted it when I came home.
Funny...The conference was located at the Faith Center. I believe it is a Four Square Gospel Church.   We were sitting in the Worship Center, a large amphitheater shaped room with a stage that held a piano and a drum set along with some very simple dried flower arrangements and two large viewing screens.  No cross or crucifix to be found anywhere in the entire room.  What is getting worshiped in that room?
The conference was interesting.  The first session covered de-escalation.  I've taken this before but it is always good for me to refresh my memory on how to work with people who are in distress in some way.  There are so many skills that I can see useful just in everyday communication with family members and friends.
The second session was titled Trauma Informed Care.  It was in some ways along the same line as the de-escalation session but went into detailing what trauma was and what are the causes of it.  Also very interesting.  I was especially impressed with the tips she gave to help us who are trying to provide help on how to deal with our own trauma induced behaviors so we can be more effective in helping others.