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Melmark Carolinas Caregiver Support Series

 

Join us for an upcoming MCS Caregiver Support Series event!

 

Thursday, April 30, 2026

Time: 1:00pm – 2:00pm EST

Location: 13325 South Point Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28273 or Zoom (link will be provided)

Topic: Strategies to Promote Communication

Presented by: Louise Buchholz Southern, Ph.D., LBA, BCBA

Abstract: Everyone needs effective and safe ways to advocate for themselves. However, many individuals we serve struggle to communicate needs, wants, and more complex thoughts and feelings. Without these skills, challenging behavior often becomes a primary form of communication. This presentation will review strategies that can be applied to promote self-advocacy skills within individuals across the learning and communication spectrum.

To register: <waiting for link from Brad or Judy>


Thursday, July 30, 2026

Time: 1:00pm – 2:00pm EST

Location: 13325 South Point Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28273 or Zoom (link will be provided)

Topic: Responding to Challenging Behaviors

Presented by: Louise Buchholz Southern, Ph.D., LBA, BCBA

Abstract: Despite all the best intentions and efforts, challenging behaviors may still occur. This presentation will review how to respond in escalated situations in a way that is safe and supportive in the moment, and also reduces challenging behaviors over the long term.

To register: <waiting for link from Brad or Judy>


Watch Past Event Recordings

(Click the ‘full screen’ icon at the bottom right corner of the video to view the video larger.)

 

Recorded: October 30, 2025

Topic: Basic Behavioral Principles

Presented by: Louise Buchholz Southern, Ph.D., LBA, BCBA

Abstract: When we encounter challenging behavior, it is critical that we look beyond the behavior itself to identify the factors that influence it.  In part, this process involves examination of our own behavior, as well as our beliefs and assumptions about behavior. This presentation will review key principles and guidelines on how behaviors are learned to consider when addressing behavior.

 

Recorded: January 29, 2026

Topic: Strategies to Prevent Challenging Behaviors

Presented by: Louise Buchholz Southern, Ph.D., LBA, BCBA

Abstract: Some of the most effective ways to manage challenging behaviors are strategies that minimize the need for challenging behaviors to occur in the first place. This presentation will review how to structure our communication, routines, supports, and interactions to prevent challenging behavior. 


For questions about Melmark Carolina’s Caregiver Support Series, contact:

Brad Stevenson, Ph.D., BCBA-D, LBA 
Director of Program Administration and Clinical Services
bstevenson@melmarkne.org
Phone: (704) 704-3941