The Practice of Self-Care and Its Benefits

Workshop Description

This 2-hour presentation, The Practice of Self-Care and Its Benefits, provides a structured and research-informed overview of how chronic stress impacts the brain, body, and behavior. Tailored for professionals and students in high-stress environments, the session begins by examining current stress trends and how they manifest in everyday functioning. Participants will learn to distinguish between performative self-care and evidence-based, restorative practices that regulate the nervous system. Through guided reflection, breathwork, and interactive exercises, attendees will practice micro-regulation techniques that are simple, low-cost, and effective. The course also explores common barriers to self-care—such as guilt, time poverty, and toxic productivity—and offers realistic strategies for overcoming them. Breakout discussions, live polling, and real-life scenarios are used to personalize learning. The session concludes with an emphasis on practical application and a personalized self-care plan participants can begin implementing immediately.

Learning Objectives

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:

• Identify the physiological and psychological effects of chronic stress on the brain and body.
• Differentiate between performative and restorative self-care practices based on current evidence.
• Apply at least three practical self-regulation techniques (e.g., breathwork, grounding, micro-habits) to reduce stress in real time.
• Recognize common internal and external barriers to self-care and formulate realistic strategies to overcome them.

Continuing Education Credits: 2.0

This workshop is approved for licensed social workers, licensed mental health counselors, licensed marriage and family therapists, and licensed psychologists.

Presenter: Kimberly Rivera

Kimberly Rivera, LMSW, CCM, is a licensed social worker and certified case manager with over 20 years of experience. She has served individuals and families across New York through therapy, care coordination, and program leadership in both clinical and community-based settings. As the co-founder of iN Counseling LCSW PLLC, Kimberly develops and delivers wellness programming that is practical, inclusive, and grounded in real-world application. Her work centers on self-care and burnout prevention, particularly for professionals, caregivers, and students navigating high-pressure environments. Kimberly brings a culturally responsive lens to her practice, with a special focus on empowering the Latino community, supporting marginalized populations, and addressing the mental health impacts of immigration. Her workshops blend lived experience, research-backed tools, and a deep commitment to accessibility in mental health care.