The Institute for Innovative Practice
Instructor Led Training
Join us for live instructor led sessions starting at $89 per session.
PEOPLE
We help employees grow into their best selves by building emotional intelligence and resilience.
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LEADERSHIP
We empower leaders to lead with vision and heart, equipping them with tools to shape the future.
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PERFORMANCE
We elevate organizational performance by aligning people, systems, and strategy.
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MEMBERSHIP
Become a member of The Institute for Innovative Practice and unlock a year of unlimited training and professional development. You’ll gain access to our in-person or virtual instructor led training for 12 months.
- Unlimited Access: Get 50+ live instructor led trainings for one annual fee.
- Exceptional Content: Courses blend evidence-based insights with real-world application.
- Cost-Effective: Centralized, cost-effective professional development.
- Member Focused: Relevant, actionable content that addresses everyday challenges.
- Continuing Education Units (CEUs): Meet annual NASW and CCB CEU requirements with no extra fees for approved courses.
Individual memberships are just $199 for one year. PURCHASE HERE TODAY(opens in a new window).
Memberships are available for your entire team. To learn more about organizational memberships, CONTACT NIKITA JOSLYN.
Custom Training Solutions
We understand that no two organizations are alike. Our services are customized to align with your unique goals, values, and challenges. We deliver focused training that empowers people to navigate human interactions and corporate dynamics.
- Relevant: Focused on real challenges and opportunities.
- Effective: Targets precise skill and knowledge gaps.
- Engaging: Directly applicable to employees’ roles.
- Impactful: Actionable strategies for quick results.
Training sessions led by industry experts are available live or virtually, scheduled at your convenience, and delivered privately for your team. We also offer training space for off-site experiences at no additional cost.
Custom sessions start at $3,500 for up to 25 people and 2 hours.
Schedule a Free Discovery Session Today(opens in a new window)
For organizations ready to invest in the next generation of leaders, the I-RISE Leadership Academy equips emerging leaders with essential skills in emotional intelligence, decision-making, and performance management—preparing them to lead with clarity and confidence.
Schedule a Discovery Session with Jessica Smith(opens in a new window).
The experience was both insightful and empowering. I gained valuable tools and perspectives that I’m excited to apply in my day-to-day work as a manager. I’m grateful for your support and for The Connection’s investment in leadership development. I’ll definitely be adding the I-RISE badge to my LinkedIn profile with pride!
Manager of Vocational Services, The Connection
Consultation and Coaching
Whether you’re looking to elevate your workplace culture, improve team dynamics, or support leadership through organizational change, our expert consultants will provide the guidance and strategies needed to achieve sustainable growth and transformation.
We offer tailored support to meet your organization’s unique needs:
- One-on-one coaching
- Team Building
- Retreat Facilitation
- Grant Writing
I love working with your team because it doesn’t matter who I am working with, the experience is consistent. You are ALL who you encourage others to be.
Director of Social Services, Town of Enfield
Our Impact
The Institute for Innovative Practice delivers high-impact training to over 5,000 participants annually, partnering with more than 300 organizations to strengthen teams and elevate outcomes.
The Institute for Innovative Practice supports the professional development of The Connection’s employees by providing onboarding training in collaboration with Human Resources and offering grant management services for the organization.
Some of Our Clients Include:
The Institute - Clients
Recent Presentations Delivered At:
Talent - Meet the Team
Jessica Smith, LMFT
Senior Vice President of Strategy & Innovation
Jessica leads business development ventures such as the Institute for Innovative Practice as part of the executive team at The Connection. With over 20 years of experience, she specializes in leading transformational initiatives from concept to operational success. As a licensed therapist, Jessica champions the link between employee health and organizational vitality, driving sustainable growth and mission advancement.
Michele Klimczak, MA, LMSW
Assistant Vice President of Training and Grant Management
Michele leads product development initiatives at The Institute. She has published research with Yale University in top criminal justice and behavioral health journals and is a sought-after presenter on topics such as trauma-informed leadership, grant writing, and resilience at work. Michele’s work is grounded in neuroscience and focused on translating theory into practice through innovative training models that support both organizational change and professional growth.
Allison Deblasio
Senior Director of Communications and Business Strategy
Allison leads communications strategy at The Connection, supporting all programs across Connecticut. As a key member of the Institute team, she advances transformative training topics and brings strategic skills to consultation engagements. With 13 years of experience in the for-profit sector, Allison contributes deep business development, client relationship, and networking expertise. She is currently pursuing her MBA at George Washington University, driving innovation in nonprofit leadership and professional development.
Nikita Joslyn, LMSW
Senior Director of Business Development
Nikita leads certification and professional development training. Recognized as Connecticut’s top Mental Health First Aid Instructor in 2022 and 2023, she has trained over 1,100 participants and was named the 2023 National Adult Instructor of the Year. With a background in mental health, domestic violence, and criminal justice, Nikita also teaches at University of New Haven and Sacred Heart University and serves as Vice Chair of the Prudence Crandall Center’s Board of Directors.
Aaron Yosky
Training Manager
Aaron leads the creation and delivery of impactful workforce development programs. His career spans leadership roles including school administrator, lead teacher, and instructional coach, where he has mentored educators and driven academic excellence. With a strong foundation in classroom teaching and a passion for professional growth, Aaron is committed to inspiring teams and advancing organizational success.