NGA’s virtual coffee chats are designed to be interactive, with members asking questions and sharing tips that have worked for them. Each one-hour chat will have an overall theme, but not necessarily a full presentation. This is a great opportunity to ask and answer questions in real time while participating in a casual environment.
Identifying Risk & Staying Safe When Your Client Is Unpredictable
Monday, August 31, 2026 | 1:00 pm Eastern
Moderated by Joyce McHugh, LCSW, Advocate Care Services
Grab your coffee and join us for an hour of casual conversation about something every guardian or social worker deals with but rarely gets to talk through openly: staying safe—physically and emotionally—when a client’s behavior is unpredictable.
There’s no formal presentation here. This is an open, relaxed space to talk about what we notice in the field: trusting your gut when something feels “off,” reading the indicators of unpredictable behavior, and setting boundaries that keep you safe. We’ll swap practical tips on planning ahead for home visits and office visits, de-escalating tense moments, meeting court requirements when safety is a concern, and knowing when to end a visit and walk away.
Bring your questions, your own experiences, and anything you’ve always wanted to ask a colleague about handling these situations.
You must register in advance for this meeting. Register here.
Coffee chats are offered exclusively to NGA members. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
We are limited to how many people can attend each chat. If you register, please attend, or cancel if your plans change so that we may offer the space to other interested members.
Coffee chats will be recorded and the most recent recording is available to members.
Coffee chats are interactive discussions with other members. They are not educational presentations and are not eligible for continuing education credit.
All coffee chats are held at 1:00 pm Eastern.
Recording from previous coffee chat: Click here.
Do you have a theme idea for a future chat? Please submit it below!
Coffee Chat Theme Suggestions