Overview: Managing Threatening Confrontations is designed to assist you in learning how to effectively support individuals who could experience the full range of behavioral escalation. These moments often appear chaotic – when to step back, who to call for back up, and “when to duck.” This seminar is designed to put order to the chaos. Stages of escalation are described and each stage is paired with a positive action plan for caregivers as well as teams. The content places strong emphasis on proactive supports. The principles taught in a straightforward manner so as to provide a framework for conceptualizing behavior escalation that can readily translate into positive plans of action. The learning is brought to life using a video of a dramatic, real life enactment of theatening confrontations by professional actors.

Learning Methods: The learning style includes small group work, video and physical practice, so wear comfortable clothing. You will receive a training manual to take back to work for reference to share with colleagues.

Some of What You’ll Learn: 

• A framework for understanding and recognizing stages of behavior escalation
• How to avoid “power struggles” that can result in behavioral escalation
• Skills in connecting with people early on, in order to sustain emotional control
• An array of creative communication strategies during periods of tension
• What the price know about presenting a “neutral presence” during stages of distress
• How caregivers can support both clients and themselves during the Recovery Stage

This training meets continuing education requirements for social workers as prescribed by the Wisconsin Department of Regulation and Licensing Chapter MPSW 19.

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Registration Change: All trainings occurring after May 15, 2026 will be processed through a new online system which will require payment via credit/debit card at the time of registration. We will no longer be issuing invoices for training registrations. If you are a caregiver who is wanting a CLTS plan to cover the registration fee, email Michael Truman at mltruman@wisc.edu to coordinate this process. Do not register here.

Registration closes Monday, October 12 at 4:00 PM.

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About the Presenter:

Josh Lapin, MSSW, has over 25 years of experience in supporting people with developmental disabilities. He is the director of the Community TIES program which is part of Community Outreach Wisconsin through the University of Wisconsin’s Waisman Center. The mission of the TIEs program is to address the behavioral, psychological, and emotional needs using therapeutic approaches that assure continued participation in supported community life. He has extensive experience as a consultant and advocate for persons with developmental disabilities. He strongly believes that a positive relationship is vital in promoting proactive behavioral support. Mr. Lapin also teaches a field seminar at the School of Social Work for undergraduate and graduate students interested in disability.

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Community Outreach Wisconsin and the Waisman Center value inclusion and access for all participants and are pleased to provide reasonable accommodations for this event. Please contact Michael Truman at mltruman@wisc.edu to make a reasonable accommodation request. Requests must be submitted by September 30, 2026.