Ongoing learning isn’t just a licensing requirement — it’s a vital part of being an effective, confident, and connected clinician. Continuing education (CE/CEU) helps you stay current with evidence-based practices, meet evolving client needs, and remain aligned with ethical and legal standards. In private practice, it can also reignite your passion and prevent burnout.
Whether you’re early in your career or a seasoned clinician, here’s how to make the most of CE opportunities and professional development — along with specific options in Michigan, Illinois, Minnesota, and Wisconsin.
Why Professional Development Matters in Private Practice
In private practice, you’re in charge of your own growth and development, which can be both empowering and challenging. That’s why continuing education and professional connection are so valuable. Regular CE participation can:
- Deepen your clinical expertise
- Help you expand into new specialties
- Support your ethical practice
- Build your professional confidence
- Keep your licensure up to date
It’s also an opportunity to connect with other therapists, share experiences, and combat the isolation that sometimes comes with solo practice.
At Great Lakes Psychology Group, we recognize how important this is. That’s why we offer in-house CE opportunities designed to fit the needs of busy private practice clinicians, making it easier to continue growing while maintaining a full caseload.
Choosing the Right CE Opportunities
Every private practice is different, so finding the right CE opportunities for your specific niche is important. Look for:
- Approved CE providers for your license type and state
- Topics relevant to your specialities, practice, or desired growth areas
- Interactive and engaging formats (e.g., live workshops, virtual webinars, or self-paced modules)
- Courses with practical tools you can apply right away
You may also want to prioritize CEs that meet your state’s ethics, supervision, or trauma-informed care requirements.
Where to Find CE Opportunities in Your State
Great Lakes Psychology Group offers in-house CE events focused on the practical needs of therapists in private practice. These trainings are accessible, engaging, and rooted in evidence-based practices — and they’re just one of the many resources available to our clinicians.
Alongside Great Lakes’ internal trainings, here are trusted, license-specific CE resources for mental health professionals across Michigan, Illinois, Minnesota, and Wisconsin:
Michigan
Social Workers
- MSU School of Social Work
- University of Michigan SSW
- Wayne State University CE Courses
- NASW-Michigan CE Central
Psychologists
Counselors
Illinois
Social Workers
Psychologists
- Illinois Psychological Association
- The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
- APA CE Sponsors Directory
Counselors
Minnesota
Social Workers
Psychologists
Counselors
Wisconsin
Social Workers
Psychologists
Counselors
Don’t Forget About National and Multistate CE Resources
- PESI – A trusted provider of affordable, practical CE courses for therapists nationwide
- Social Work Today – National Events
- ACA Continuing Education
Join Professional Networks and Associations
In addition to formal CE, professional organizations provide valuable learning and networking opportunities. Joining a state or national association connects you with:
- Peer support and mentorship
- Advocacy efforts for your profession
- Free or discounted CE courses
- Opportunities to present or publish
- Referral and supervision directories
Being active in your professional community helps you stay informed and feel supported in your career.
Continuing Education is a Career Investment
Continuing education isn’t just about maintaining your license. It’s about staying curious, building your confidence, and becoming the therapist you want to be. Whether you’re attending a state association training or joining one of Great Lakes Psychology Group’s in-house CE events, you’re investing in both your clinical growth and your ability to support your clients effectively.
Want to learn more about how Great Lakes Psychology Group supports your professional development? Visit careers.glpg.net.
