6 Contact Hours
This course explores why some individuals more easily adapt to a life-altering disability, illness, or effects of aging while others do not, and the therapist's role in helping clients identify effective coping strategies to prevent additional serious physical and psychological repercussions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder.

Instructor: Joel Desotelle, MS OTR/L

Joel is an occupational therapist who specializes in neurological disorders in children and adults.  He received his Bachelors of Science (B.S) degree in occupational therapy from Keuka College (Keuka Park, NY) in 1995 and his post-graduate Masters of Science (M.S.) degree from Misericordia University (Dallas, PA) in 2010.  He holds a post-graduate certificate in pediatrics from Misericordia University (2006) and has worked in a variety of settings from out-patient pediatrics to in-patient adults.  Joel is an experienced author and instructor who has presented on a wide range of topics including stroke rehab, neuromuscular disorders, autism, sensory dysfunction, dementia, falls, and outcomes-based therapy..

Instructor: Joanne R. Desotelle, Ph.D

Dr. Joanne Desotelle is a Professor of English and for the past twelve years has been Chair of the Humanities and Fine Arts Division at Keuka College, Keuka Park, NY. In over 25 years of academic service, in addition to teaching, Joanne has been involved in research, assessment strategies, course development, curriculum development, and program development including designing and writing the New Major Proposal for the New York State Department of Education for majors in American Sign Language, Visual and Verbal Art, Theatre and Drama, and ASL-English Interpreting. (All proposals were approved.)

• Interactive Online Classroom, or...


• Home Study Course - Includes self-study manual. Two certificate options:


• Complete case studies and final exam online. You will be able to print your certificate from your computer immediately after achieving a passing score.
• Complete the paper/pencil case-studies and final exam at home and mail it in to your instructor. Your certificate will be mailed to you after achieving a passing score.

• demonstrate knowledge about the causes and consequences of stress;
• demonstrate an understanding of the cognitive coping theory of stress;
• recognize positive and negative coping strategies;
• assess the client’s coping strategies, and
• devise strategies for assisting the client in activating effective coping strategies.