GACA Professional Development

 Virtual Only

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Summit for Counselors

Thursday, June 11, 2026 - Saturday, June 13, 2026

Up to 18.5 CE Hours Approved by GACA, GSCSW and NAADAC.  Approved for up to 18.5 Clock Hours with NBCC.

Thursday, June 11, 2026

AI: Responsible and Transparent Usage as a Clinical Tool

Presented by Russell Proctor, LMSW, CAC-II, CCS, LADAC-II, QCS, SAP

• 8:45 AM Check-In  
• 9:00 AM Workshop Begins
• 12:15 PM Workshop Concludes
• 3.0 CE Hours

This workshop explores the history of AI, and multiple examples of how AI has already been integrated into many areas of life. In the context of clinical services, this workshop will cover existing regulation already in place by licensing/credentialing boards, and State legislative action, emphasizing transparent and responsible AI usage. This workshop will also discuss many ways that AI tools are being integrated into substance abuse and mental health services.

Learning Objectives

1. Highlight the history and progression of AI. 
2. Reinforce ethical, transparent, and responsible usage of AI as a tool for counselors, not a replacement. 
3. Provide counselors with practical ways that AI may be useful when used properly.

Russell has been in the substance abuse field since 2007. Currently, Russell works with the DUI Intervention Program, Mobile Crisis, and as a clinical supervisor and trainer in Georgia and Tennessee. Personal experience with addiction and recovery, combined with his education and work experience have equipped Russell with empathy, clinical skills, and professionalism to serve the substance abuse and mental health treatment fields.

Do Humans want Humans? AI Chatbot vs. Live Therapy

Dr. Laklieshia Izzard, Ed.D, LPC, NCC, ACS  

• 12:45 PM Check-In  
• 1:00 AM Workshop Begins
• 2:30 PM Workshop Concludes
• 1.5 CE Hours
  

We are living through one of the most advanced technological moments in the history of the internet. AI is now generating more content in a single day than humans produced in the first decade of social media. Blog posts, Captions, Videos,  Articles, Websites, and even entire “personalities” are now being created by machines. In a world drowning in artificial content, humanity becomes the premium(mindvalley.com). Some individuals have started using AI chatbot for therapy with drastic results. This presentation will explore AI chatbot versus Live human therapy along with myths, facts, benefits, ethical considerations, and culturally responsive approaches.

Learning Objectives

1. Participants will be able to identify myths and facts surrounding AI chatbot and Live Therapy
2. Participants will examine the ethical dilemmas and risks that may arise from using AI chatbot
3. Participants will explore cultural considerations that can be beneficial when using AI chatbot and Live therapy
4. Participants will be able to list ways to advocate for ethical use of AI in the mental health field

Dr. Laklieshia Izzard is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia and New Jersey, Georgia Certified School Counselor, a National Certified Counselor, an Approved Clinical Supervisor, Tri-Care Mental Health Counselor, Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) Suicide Prevention Instructor, Youth Mental Health First Aid Certified, Executive Public Speaker, and the Author of Faith Inspiration Therapy along with multiple publications. Dr Izzard is the founder and CEO of Shekinah Counseling a virtual private practice with more than 19 years of community mental health counseling experience with diverse populations. Dr. Izzard provides counseling, mentoring, speaking, training, panel and symposium coordination services. Dr. Izzard has been an Adjunct Professor for the past 12 years. Dr. Izzard is the founder and coordinator of The Black Men Thrive Wellness Symposium that she conducts in partnership with her Church Berean Christian Church for the past 6 years. Dr Izzard served on the board of directors for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Georgia from 2020-2023. Dr. Izzard currently serves on their Advisory Board and was the lead founding member of their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee. Dr. Izzard was recently elected to serve as 2nd Vice President to the NAMI National Board of Directors. Dr. Izzard is a founding member and served as President from 2019-2020 for the American Counseling Association of Georgia. Dr Izzard obtained her doctoral degree in Counselor Education and Supervision from Argosy University Sarasota, Dr. Izzard is a double HBCU Alumni with a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling from the largest HBCU in the nation North Carolina A&T State University and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Fayetteville State University! Dr. Izzard has won multiple awards for her pioneer and trailblazer service in the Mental Health space for diverse and underserved communities!

Navigating Digital Dangers and Real-World Trauma in the Age of AI

Rachel Murphy, MPM, C-MHC, Founder, Optimizing Futures

• 2:30 PM Check-In  
• 2:45 PM Workshop Begins
• 4:45 PM Workshop Concludes
• 2.0 CE Hours

From AI-generated content to wearable devices that blur the line between online and offline life, the landscape of digital risk is changing faster than many realize. What does trauma look like when it originates from technologies that did not exist a few years ago? And how does that kind of harm show up in the counseling room for both clients of all ages and professionals? 

This trauma-informed, discussion-based training will help attendees to understand what has changed in the digital environment and why new forms of harm are emerging from everyday behaviors such as posting, accepting terms and conditions or sharing a photo. Participants will examine how digital exposure affects client wellbeing, safety, identity, and sense of control, while also considering its impact on professional boundaries, confidentiality, and ethical judgment in practice.

Learning Objectives

1. Describe how AI and emerging technologies have changed the rules of online sharing and why everyday digital habits now carry different consequences. 
2. Recognize how digital exposure may lead to stress, anxiety, or trauma, and how these concerns may present in counseling settings. 
3. Apply strategies that help clients build safer digital habits with informed awareness rather than fear or avoidance.

Technology is reshaping how we live, work, learn, and connect. Rachel Murphy helps leaders, educators, and communities see it, name it, and respond wisely. She is a speaker, mental health coach, and founder of Optimizing Futures, bringing nearly 20 years of experience in human development, education, and systems change to her work on technology and its impact. She holds dual certification in mental health coaching from Light University, a Master of Public Management from Georgetown University, and has trained organizations including multinational corporations, counseling agencies, small businesses, HR teams, and faith communities on AI, digital safety, and technology's effects on wellbeing and relationships.

Her work focuses on how digital tools reshape autonomy, self-trust, and relational patterns. She develops trainings and resources that help individuals and organizations navigate emerging technology without sacrificing agency or human connection.

Friday, June 12, 2026

AI Unlocked: Practical Applications for Clinicians in Substance Use Treatment Settings

Kimberly Alexander, MBA, LPC, CPCS, CMAC, ACS 

• 8:45 AM Check-In  
• 9:00 AM Workshop Begins
• 12:15 PM Workshop Concludes
• 3.0 CE Hours

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming healthcare, but many behavioral health professionals remain uncertain about its role in substance use treatment. This session provides a clear, practical introduction to AI—what it is, what it isn’t, and how it can enhance clinical practice without replacing counselors. We’ll debunk common myths, explore ethical considerations, and demonstrate real-world applications that support treatment planning, engagement, and outcomes.

Learning Objectives

Participants will:

1. Explain the fundamentals of AI and its relevance to behavioral health and substance use treatment.
2. Identify practical ways AI tools can support clinicians in assessment, documentation, and client engagement.
3. Evaluate common myths and ethical considerations surrounding AI to make informed decisions about its integration into practice.

Kimberly Alexander is a dynamic leader and seasoned behavioral health professional with nearly three decades of experience helping individuals and organizations thrive. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor (CPCS), and Master Fitness Trainer. Kimberly holds an MBA from Emory University and a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from Richmont Graduate University.

Currently serving as Georgia State Director for Gateway Foundation’s Corrections Division, Kimberly manages substance use treatment programs within the Georgia Department of Corrections. Her unique background—spanning clinical administration, neuroscience pharmaceutical representation, and executive leadership—equips her to tackle complex challenges in behavioral health with confidence and clarity.

Kimberly is passionate about educating and inspiring audiences. Through engaging presentations, she shares practical strategies for navigating clinical, ethical, and leadership challenges in real time. Her mission is to empower professionals to think critically, act decisively, and lead with purpose.

Law & Order: Ethics Unit – Navigating Dilemmas in the Age of AI  

Dr. Witni Jackson, LCSW, MAC 

• 12:45 PM Check-In  
• 1:00 PM Workshop Begins
• 4:15 PM Workshop Concludes
• 3.0 Ethics CE Hours

In an era where technology is rapidly reshaping the helping professions, ethical decision-making has never been more critical, or more complex. Law & Order: Ethics Unit – Navigating Dilemmas in the Age of AI and Innovation transforms ethics education into an interactive, courtroom-style experience that brings real-world challenges to life.

Participants step into the role of investigators to examine “case files” based on authentic ethical dilemmas drawn from clinical and organizational practice. Using the professional code of ethics and established decision-making models, attendees will debate, deliberate, and deliver verdicts on cases involving confidentiality, boundaries, dual relationships, and emerging gray areas in the digital age.

A highlight of the session includes Special Case Files exploring the ethical frontiers of artificial intelligence — from AI-generated progress notes and predictive analytics in child welfare to telehealth platforms that analyze tone and speech for risk detection. Through structured discussion, role play, and peer reflection, participants will strengthen their ethical reasoning skills and enhance their confidence in navigating complex, tech-driven practice environments.

This highly INTERACTIVE training blends entertainment and education to help professionals uphold ethical standards while embracing innovation in a rapidly changing world.

Learning Objectives

1. Identify common ethical dilemmas in helping professions.
2. Apply NAADAC code of ethics to real-world scenarios.
3. Use structured decision-making frameworks to resolve ethical challenges.
4. Communicate ethical decisions effectively with clients, colleagues, and supervisors.

Dr. Witni Jackson is a seasoned social work professional with over 15 years of experience in mental health, crisis intervention, and program management, She holds a Doctorate in Social Worker from Capella University, a Master in Social Worker from Georgia State University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Spelman College. Dr. Jackson's expertise spans various sectors, including veteran services, mental health care and community outreach. 

Currently working as a social worker at an outpatient mental health clinic, Dr. Jackson serves as subject matter expert offering education and consultation to both internal and external stakeholders. In addition, Dr. Jackson is the CEO and Instructor at Kuna Consulting LLC where she designs and delivers accredited educational programs for social workers and professional counselors across Georgia, provides clinical supervision and also clinical consultation as needed.

Saturday, June 13, 2026

From 1-on-1 to Scalable Impact: Turn Your Practice into a Membership-Based Model Using AI, Automation & D.A.D.

Casey Cole Corbin, BS, Certified Life Coach, Certified Hypnotist

• 8:45 AM Check-In  
• 9:00 AM Workshop Begins
• 12:15 PM Lunch Break
• 1:00 PM Workshop Resumes
• 4:15 PM Workshop Concludes
• 6.0 CE Hours

How much will your work change in the next 12 months?

This session builds on foundational discussions of ethics and responsible AI use by focusing on real-world application for counselors. Participants will learn how to use compliant AI automation to streamline documentation, enhance client engagement, and reduce administrative burden.

The workshop also explores sustainable counseling-related income models—including private practice, consulting, and scalable services—while maintaining strong therapeutic relationships and regulatory compliance.

Designed for clinicians interested in expanding their impact, reducing burnout, and integrating technology responsibly into practice.

Learning Objectives

Participants will be able to:

1. Identify at least three compliant AI automation strategies that reduce administrative burden.
2. Evaluate alignment between supplemental income models and professional goals.
3. Describe at least two counseling-related business models appropriate for practitioners.
4. Develop a preliminary framework for integrating AI-assisted systems into practice safely within scope.

Casey Corbin is a credentialed counselor with over 28 years of experience and a consultant known for dynamic, experiential workshops blending neuroscience, mindfulness, and practical tools for clinicians. A past Program Director at Greenleaf Psychiatric Hospital in Valdosta, GA, Casey has worked across the full continuum of care for substance use and now offers 100% online private practice sessions using the same strategies he teaches. With over 88 online courses created and a deep passion for transforming clinical education for the post-information age, Casey’s sessions focus on interactivity, engagement, and practical tools that stick.

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The Association for Addiction Professionals (NAADAC) represents the professional interests of more than 100,000 addiction counselors, educators, and other addiction-focused health care professionals.

Georgia Addiction Counselors Association has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7302.  Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. Georgia Addiction Counselors Association is solely responsible for all aspects of the program.