The Power of Positivity: How to Drop Negative Thoughts Webinar

Date & Time: Wednesday, February 25, 2026 | 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Location: Webinar via Zoom
Cost: $5

This program is funded by a generous grant from the Staunton Farm Foundation.

What to Expect

This engaging and research-based session explores how positive thinking and optimism influence emotional well-being, mental health, and overall resilience. Participants will examine the connection between mindset and behavioral health, learning how conscious awareness and intentional thought patterns can reduce stress, improve coping, and enhance quality of life. Drawing from psychological research in cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness practices, the training provides practical strategies to recognize and reframe negative thinking while fostering self-compassion, balance, and emotional stability. Through interactive reflection and discussion, participants will leave equipped with tools to support themselves and others in building a more positive, mentally healthy outlook.

Objectives

Describe the relationship between positive thinking, mental wellness, and behavioral health outcomes.
Identify common forms of negative thinking and their impact on mood, stress, and behavior.
Apply research-based strategies such as cognitive reframing, mindfulness, and gratitude to counter negative thoughts.
Practice self-awareness techniques to promote optimism, resilience, and emotional regulation in daily life.
Develop an individualized action plan for integrating positive practices into professional and personal routines to support sustained mental wellness.

Facilitator

Laurie Neyhard is a seasoned professional specializing in ergonomics, wellness, and health promotion. With over a decade of experience, Laurie combines her expertise in injury prevention, workplace wellness, and life enrichment to design and implement impactful programs across various industries. Laurie holds a Master of Science in Exercise Science and Health Promotion from California University of Pennsylvania, graduating summa cum laude, and a Bachelor of Science in Recreation Management from Lock Haven University, where she earned multiple accolades for academic and leadership excellence. Laurie also holds certifications in wellness, fitness, and caregiver training. Her contributions include presenting at national conferences, serving on professional boards, and receiving awards for creative programming and best practices in her field.

Continuing Education Units (CEUs)

Social Work: 2.0 CEUs Available (No Additional Cost)
Nursing: 2.0 CEUs – Pending Approval (No Additional Cost)

Social Work: “NASW-PA Chapter is a co-sponsor of this workshop. 2.0 CEUs will be awarded for completion of this course. NASW has been designated as a pre-approved provider of professional continuing education for social workers (Section 47.36), Marriage and Family Therapist (Section 48.36) and Professional Counselors (Section 49.36) by the PA State Board of Social Workers, Marriage & Family Therapists and Professional Counselors.”

Nursing: Penn State Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing is approved with distinction as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by Pennsylvania State Nurses Association Approver Unit, an accredited approver by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation. Pending approval, participants with a valid RN license that attend the entire Nursing Continuing Professional Development program (NCPD), can earn 2.0 contact hours.; partial contact hours are not awarded.