Open help menu
In Person
Pathways to Innovation Conference

Contemporary Challenges, Timeless Solutions: Revisiting the Soulful Essence of Therapy

Derek Talkington, LADC, MH-S
|

Pricing

Information

Date & Time

Learning Objectives

Participants will be able to:

  • Identify three benefits of integrated philosophical thought.

  • Demonstrate effective use of formational skills and rule life.

  • Explain the connection between ancient thought and modern therapy.

Educational Goal

To increase motivation for therapeutic work, inspire deeper connection to purpose in therapeutic work, and reaffirm the foundation of the therapeutic alliance.

Description

"That which is oldest is most young and most new. There is nothing so ancient and so dead as human novelty. The ‘latest’ is always stillborn. It never even manages to arrive. What is really new is what was there all the time." -Thomas Merton

In a world dominated by rapid-fire posts, constant notifications, and the overwhelming surge of digital apps, we often find ourselves caught in a cycle of anxiety, isolation, and compulsion. Despite promises that technology would lead to a utopian future, it frequently leaves us feeling disconnected. What we need now is a pause—a return to the foundational principles of the helping profession. Let us cast our anchors into something timeless and proven, rediscovering the soulful essence of therapy and reconnecting with the deeper, more meaningful dimensions of our work. This journey will move us beyond simply managing symptoms, allowing clients to engage with their inner selves, values, and sense of purpose in a way that fosters profound healing. It’s a call to return to the philosophical depth, clarity of spirit, and humility that can guide our profession forward, enabling us to build healthier communities and lives grounded in true transformation.

Target Audience

  • Addiction Professional
  • Counselor
  • Marriage & Family Therapist
  • Psychologist
  • Social Worker

Presenters

Derek Talkington, LADC, MH-S
Derek Talkington, LADC, MH-S is a licensed addiction and mental health therapist and supervisor in Oklahoma. He is a skilled program director and clinician with experience in various outpatient and residential addiction treatment centers. His work has included outpatient adult, adolescent, and family work at Specialized Outpatient Services in Oklahoma City and intensive family and individual therapeutic work at Four Winds Ranch in Guthrie Oklahoma. Derek has previously sat as the Clinical Director of Second Story Ranch Recovery Community and as Executive Director of Parents Helping Parents, an Oklahoma based non-profit agency aimed at supporting families with children, of any age, affected by substance use and addiction. Derek was a co-founder and Chief Operating Officer at CLASSEN9, a premier treatment, consulting and community development firm in Oklahoma City and hosted The Chasing Sanity podcast. Currently, Derek serves as the Clinical Director of Country Road, a Pathways Recovery Center. Derek believes recovery involves creating healing and balance in all aspects of life in order to combat the pain and loneliness at the root of addiction. To keep his own life in balance, Derek often spends time with friends and family enjoying the great outdoors, good coffee, a competitive dominoes game or a challenging new book. It is through these new experiences with loved ones that Derek keeps his spirit fresh and his zeal for life and clinical work flourishing.