Speaking up at the Capitol can feel intimidating, even for seasoned clinicians. Many psychologists want to advocate for the issues that matter most to their clients and communities, but the legislative process often feels unfamiliar, high-stakes, or overwhelming. This training is designed to replace that anxiety with clarity, confidence, and practical skills you can use immediately.

Join us for a hands-on, supportive webinar that breaks the testimony process into simple, manageable steps. Whether you have never submitted written testimony before or are nervous about offering oral remarks during a public hearing, CPA’s Legislative Committee will guide you through exactly what to expect and how to prepare.

Event Details

📅 Date: Friday, January 23, 2025
🕒 Time: 1:00–2:00 PM EST
💻 Location: Virtual (Zoom link provided upon registration)
🎟 Registration: Free for CPA Members

What You’ll Learn

Through expert instruction, real examples, and step-by-step guidance, participants will learn:

• How the Connecticut legislative process works and where testimony fits in

• How to craft compelling written testimony, including structure, tone, and key elements

• Templates you can use during the 2025 legislative session

• Strategies for delivering effective oral testimony, even if public speaking makes you nervous

• Role-play demonstrations to show how testimony actually unfolds in a hearing room

• Practical tips from experienced advocates that eliminate guesswork and demystify the process

This webinar focuses on one core idea: any psychologist can learn to do this—and your voice truly matters.

Featuring

Dr. Mark Spellmann, Ph.D.: A long-standing leader in legislative advocacy for psychologists.

Dr. Reanne Cunningham Chilton, Ph.D.: CPA Legislative Fellow and early career psychologist shaping statewide advocacy efforts.

Why This Training Matters

Psychologists have a unique and powerful perspective on issues affecting children, families, and communities across Connecticut. Lawmakers rely on the expertise of mental health professionals, but only if we feel prepared to show up.

This training turns what can feel like an intimidating civic process into a clear, doable, and empowering skill set. By the end of the session, you’ll walk away with tools, templates, and the confidence to participate in the 2026 session and beyond.

Who Should Attend

• Psychologists interested in shaping public policy

• Practitioners addressing system-level barriers

• Early-career psychologists seeking advocacy experience

• Any CPA member who has ever thought: “I want to help… but I don’t know where to start.”

If you’ve been hesitant, this is the place to begin.