How to Be an Extraordinary Group Facilitator

THURSDAY, APRIL 23, 2026
12 p.m. - 1 p.m. ET/11 a.m. - 12 p.m. CT

Webinar

Discover what truly sets extraordinary group facilitators apart! This session explores the ability to consistently value each person’s inherent worth, regardless of behavior. Grounded in Carl Rogers’ concept of unconditional positive regard, participants will examine how shifting from “liking” to “valuing” transforms group dynamics, builds trust, and reduces defensive or disengaged behaviors.

Facilitators will learn how to adopt a person-centered stance that holds steady even in the face of challenging interactions—approaching each individual with acceptance, curiosity, and enduring warmth. The session emphasizes a practical mindset shift: “I just don’t know enough about them yet,” and explores how this perspective opens the door to empathy, understanding, and more effective support.

A strong focus is placed on the intentional use of questions to deepen connection and promote self-directed insight. Facilitators will learn to ask one question at a time, allow space for reflection, and ensure clarity and accessibility. Emphasis is placed on exploring rather than advising, reinforcing the belief that individuals can identify their own solutions when supported in a safe environment. Practical tools include using open-ended questions, avoiding leading or limiting language, and applying simple prompts like “Tell me more” to encourage dialogue.

Participants will also explore how tone, presence, and nonjudgmental listening shape group dynamics. The session reinforces that effective facilitation is less about having the right answers and more about creating conditions where people feel heard, respected, and valued.

Presented by: Kristine Theurer, The Java Group
Dr. Kristine Theurer is a researcher who is pioneering the use of standardized peer support and peer mentoring programs to address loneliness and social isolation in senior living. She is a published author of a number of research articles, the most recent of which ‘It makes life worthwhile!’ Peer mentoring in long-term care—a feasibility study in the Journal of Aging & Mental Health, The Impact of Peer Mentoring on Loneliness, Depression, and Social Engagement in Long-Term Care in the Journal of Applied Gerontology and The Need for a Social Revolution in Residential Care, the most downloaded article in the Journal of Aging Studies. Kristine has completed her PhD at the University of British Columbia, leads training workshops and webinars in Canada and the US and presents regularly at international conferences. She has received numerous research awards including the Michael Smith Foundation for Health Research and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada. She serves on the planning committee for the national conference on culture change in Canada, hosted by the Schlegel-UW Research Institute for Aging.

Registration Policy
Registration includes digital handouts and tools for each of the sessions, ONE connection to the live virtual trainings for ONE person, and instructions for receiving CE credit/attendance certificate for one person. Please note that a recording of this training is not included in the registration fee. 

Contact Hours
This program is approved for 1 hour of CE credit for Florida and Louisiana assisted living/adult residential care administrators and nursing home administrators, and Florida occupational therapists and nurses. Contact hours will be reported to CE Broker within 30 days of the program date for attendees licensed under Florida Boards. All attendees may request a certificate reflecting hours earned for self-reporting continuing education to other boards and oversight agencies.

Cancellations/Refunds/Substitutions
Substitutions will be accepted at no additional fee until registration closes. All cancellations and substitution requests must be submitted in writing to kmccloud@leadingagesoutheast.org.

Questions
For assistance with your membership status or recovering login information, please contact us at (850) 671-3700.