Workplace bullying series wraps up Aug. 18 with online program
"Standing Strong Against Bullying," the final in the three-part series, will focus especially on the workplace on Tuesday, Aug. 18. The virtual presentation, from 6:30 to 8 p.m., is part of the free series "Facing the Bully Without & Within," sponsored by the Pastoral Care and Adult Faith Formation Departments of St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church in Naperville.
Reservations are required for the digital webinar replacing a spring program by the same name rescheduled because of the COVID-19 quarantine.
Those interested in attending this concluding discussion need not have attended previous sessions in the series.
The series is being led by Dr. Beth Plachetka, a licensed clinical social worker, and Dr. Charlotte Dillon, a clinical psychologist, to facilitate reflection and equip participants with skills and greater awareness about dealing with bullying.
Basing their comments on the neurosciences and research in attachment, both speakers agree. "We live our best lives when we are connected and nourished in healthy relational and spiritual connections." They add, "We all know we live in a very complex world in which the standards for how we treat one another are, in many instances, at an all-time low. Our hope in this series is to identify ways to address one aspect of how we treat one another: bullying, especially in the workplace."
In describing "Standing Strong Against Bullying," the speakers say, "Our final program will examine how to use our faith practices to stand strong against bullying, whether we are the target or are the witness/bystander. Many witnesses/bystanders are reluctant to intervene due to lack of effective tools, so we invite you to learn in community how to stand strong against bullying."
Plachetka, who also is a professional educator, relies on her experience as a target of workplace bullying; doctoral research; her work with individuals, families and groups; and current study of trauma and attachment to offer deep practical knowledge of workplace issues and interventions. She is an active member of the International Association of Workplace Bullying and Harassment.
Specializing in developmental trauma, Dillon teaches that how we treat one another is a core value of Christian discipleship. She has extensive training in tracking the nervous and attachment systems to promote trauma resolution and healing. She also holds a mastor's degree in pastoral studies from Loyola University and helps her clients integrate spiritual formation with psychological well-being.
"Facing the Bully Without & Within" is part of St. Thomas' Wellspring Educational Events calendar.
Wellspring programs seek to present interactive educational experiences whose goal is promoting a wholistic way of life that includes body-mind-spirit integration and well-being.
Reservations are required to ensure Zoom contact information is available to participants.
For reservations or more information about "Standing Strong Against Bullying," contact Felicia Lawlor, faith community nurse, at flawlor@stapostle.org or (630) 355-8980, ext. 104.
St. Thomas the Apostle, a parish of the Diocese of Joliet, strives to bear the Good News of God's unconditional love to all generations through worship, faith formation, witness and service. Organized in 1984, the St. Thomas faith community numbers more than 3,400 households of more than 10,750 people. Complete news and information on parish events, guest speakers and special programs is available at www.stapostle.org. The church is located at 1500 Brookdale Road.
For general parish information, call (630) 355-8980.