What we say matters

As educators, advocates, spouses, friends, and providers, our use of language can deeply affect the self-view of people living with diabetes every day.

Intentional communication is a powerful tool that can uncover trauma, identify barriers, and move both the provider and person with diabetes toward a greater understanding of the issues involved.

The language used in the health care setting is immensely important in determining trust, mutual respect, and meaningful long-term relationships.

Many people with diabetes have experienced injustice, trauma, and marginalization, and are often struggling with feelings of shame and blame.

Topics covered include:

• Learn phrases, words, and approaches that can be left behind.
• Describe diabetes language that is respectful, inclusive, person-centered, and imparts hope.
• Discuss how to evaluate for ACE and provide trauma-informed care
• Practice communicating about diabetes using phrases free from judgment with a focus on a strength-based approach.

Intended Audience: A critical course for anyone in the field of diabetes education!

Instructor: Beverly Thomassian RN, MPH, CDCES, BC-ADM is a working educator and a nationally recognized diabetes expert.

Two registration options:

• Enroll for FREE (No CEs): Click here to enroll.
• Earn 0.75 CEs – Fee: $19.00 – Click here to enroll in the course.

All hours earned count toward your CDCES Accreditation Information