The Micro-Moments of Disengagement: Conversation Analysis and Premature Termination in Counseling s

The Micro-Moments of Disengagement: Conversation Analysis and Premature Termination in Counseling

Description: Premature termination is one of the greatest barriers to effective counseling, with anywhere from 15–70% of clients leaving therapy prematurely. What happens in those first sessions, and the subtle choices a therapist makes, can mean the difference between dropout and deep engagement. This session explores therapist factors such as facilitative skills, question type, and emotional expression, and their impact on the working alliance and client retention. Drawing on original research using conversation analysis and affect coding, attendees will gain practical, evidence-based tools to strengthen relationships, boost engagement, and reduce early dropout across diverse settings.

Learning Objectives:

CEU Workshop Agenda

10:45 am - Registration
11:00 am*- Lunch Served and Networking
11:15 am - Self-Introductions, Sponsor Spotlight, and Speaker introductions
11:40 am - Learning Part I
12:45 pm - Break and Networking
1:00 pm - Learning Part II
1:55 pm - Closing and Evaluations
2:00 pm - Event Concludes

2.0 General CEU Hours

Erin Beattie, PhD, LMHC, QS, is a licensed mental health counselor, clinical director, and counselor educator with experience working with adolescents, families, and complex trauma. She holds a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision and serves as adjunct faculty in graduate counseling programs. Her clinical and research interests center on the therapeutic relationship, therapist-client interaction, premature termination, and trauma-informed systems of care. Erin currently leads program development and clinical training initiatives within adolescent treatment settings and is passionate about bridging research, supervision, and real-world clinical practice.

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