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OACP Spring 2026 President's Newsletter: Growth, Connection & What’s Ahead
President's Report
As the season shifts and winter gives way to spring, there is a sense of renewal all around us. The days are longer, the energy is changing, and here at OACP we find ourselves in a moment of both reflection and forward movement. We are looking ahead to what is next for this organization and the community we continue to build together.
This year has already offered meaningful opportunities for connection and professional growth. From our educational gatherings to our interdisciplinary training and social events, there is a steady rhythm taking shape. Alongside that, there is an open invitation to welcome new voices, fresh ideas, and renewed participation as we continue to evolve.
Looking Ahead
As we move toward the summer months, there is a sense of openness and possibility. We encourage you to stay connected, continue engaging in our offerings, and invite colleagues who may be curious about Collaborative Practice to learn more.
Thank you for being part of this community and for the care you bring to this work.
Community Service
A Call for Leadership
As we begin planning for the coming year, we will be opening board positions, including roles on the executive committee. This is an exciting time to step into leadership. OACP is growing and changing, and there is real opportunity to help guide that direction.
If you have been considering getting more involved, we encourage you to reach out. New energy and a range of perspectives help ensure that this organization remains responsive, thoughtful, and strong.
Expanding Our Reach
Our Low Bono Committee is taking time to reflect on how we can better serve the broader Oregon community, with particular attention to those who have had limited access to Collaborative services.
We welcome your ideas and involvement. Whether through partnerships, outreach, or creative approaches to access, your input can help shape what this work becomes.
Welcome New Members
In February, we gathered at The Grotto in Portland for our Introductory Interdisciplinary Collaborative Practice Training. Professionals from legal, financial, and mental health backgrounds came together over three days to build a shared foundation.
We are pleased to welcome many newly trained professionals into the OACP community and look forward to their contributions.
Welcome new members!
Calendar of Events
May 15, 2026
Rae’s Loft in Portland
We are looking forward to gathering for our Annual Conference, featuring keynote presenter Tracey Biebel, LCSW:
When Conflict Gets Triggered: Trauma-Responsive Skills for Legal and Helping Professionals
This full-day training will offer practical, trauma-informed tools for navigating high-conflict situations with greater awareness and effectiveness. The content is relevant across disciplines and designed for anyone working in Collaborative practice.
Registration is now open, and we encourage you to reserve your spot soon. Register here: Oregon Association of Collaborative Professionals - Meeting/Event Information
Monthly Educational Meetings
Our monthly educational series continues to offer meaningful, practice-enhancing content while creating space for us to learn and grow together as Collaborative professionals.
January 2026
Rethinking Discipline: Brain-Based Tools for Better Outcomes
Presented by Megan Barella, this session explored neuroscience-informed strategies to support families navigating conflict.
February 2026
Discernment Counseling: Helping Couples Navigate Divorce Decisions
Panelists Dr. Lisa Gabardi, Chandra Emery, and Nadia Delshad provided valuable insight into working with ambivalent couples considering separation.
March 2026
Collaborative Family Law 25 Years Later: Revisiting and Reimagining Best Practices
Facilitated by Jo Posey, Lee Hamilton, Meg Merrill, and Diana Fedoroff, this interactive discussion invited members to reflect on how the practice has evolved and where it is headed.
April 2026
The Challenge of Holding Two Perspectives at the Same Time
Presented by Tsipora Dimant. This upcoming session will explore the psychological and practical barriers to holding competing viewpoints, along with tools we can use to support ourselves and our clients.
Our mentoring meetings continue alongside these offerings, providing a more personal space for reflection, skill-building, and connection as we deepen this work together.
Community and Connection
Our Spring Social at Loyal Legion in March offered a chance to reconnect and welcome new members in a relaxed setting. These gatherings continue to be an important part of how we build trust and community.
Our Social Committee is actively creating opportunities for connection and reaching out to newer members so that everyone feels included and engaged. If you are looking for a way to get involved, this is a wonderful place to begin.
Enjoy Summer!
As we move into the summer months, OACP will be taking a seasonal pause from our monthly educational and mentorship meetings through September 2026. We hope this time offers you space to rest, recharge, and enjoy all that summer has to offer. We look forward to reconnecting in the fall with renewed energy and continued opportunities to learn, collaborate, and grow together.
