From Webinar to Workshop: Bringing De-escalation Skills to Life at CLEAR 2026
When CLEAR recently hosted a webinar on de-escalation techniques, the response from the regulatory community was immediate and overwhelming. The session filled quickly, highlighting a reality many regulators face every day: navigating difficult conversations, managing conflict, and responding effectively in high-pressure situations has become an essential professional skill.
As regulatory environments grow increasingly complex, professionals are encountering more emotionally charged interactions, challenging investigations, and high-stakes conversations. Knowing how to de-escalate these situations while maintaining professionalism and ensuring personal safety is critical to effective regulation.
That's why CLEAR is expanding this highly sought-after topic into an interactive, in-person pre-conference workshop at the 46th Annual Educational Conference.
De-escalation in Practice: Advanced Skills for Navigating High-Stakes Interactions
September 14, 2026
1:00 – 4:00 PM (PDT)
An additional registration fee applies
Designed to build on the concepts introduced during the webinar, this hands-on workshop moves beyond theory and into practice. Participants will have the opportunity to develop and apply de-escalation techniques in realistic scenarios while receiving feedback from experienced facilitators and engaging with peers.
What You'll Learn
Participants will explore practical strategies to:
- Apply effective verbal and non-verbal de-escalation techniques
- Recognize early warning signs and behavioral triggers
- Maintain professionalism while prioritizing personal safety
- Practice responses through interactive, scenario-based exercises
Unlike a traditional presentation, this workshop emphasizes active participation, allowing attendees to strengthen their skills through real-world application and discussion.
Meet the Facilitators
An internationally recognized expert in physician health and occupational psychiatry, Dr. Puddester brings extensive experience in clinical practice, leadership, and professional education. His work has focused on supporting professionals operating in demanding and high-pressure environments. He has also contributed significantly to physician wellness resources, including serving as lead editor of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada's CanMEDS Physician Health Guide.
A respected attorney and regulatory leader, Amigo Wade has spent decades working in investigations, adjudication, and legislative policy. As a longtime CLEAR instructor and contributor, he has delivered more than 100 National Certified Investigator Training (NCIT) programs throughout the United States and Canada. Known for his practical and engaging teaching style, Amigo has helped countless regulatory professionals strengthen their investigative and communication skills.
Start Your Conference Experience with Practical Skills You Can Use Immediately
The Annual Educational Conference is an opportunity to learn, connect, and grow alongside regulatory professionals from around the world. This pre-conference workshop offers a unique chance to develop valuable skills before the conference officially begins—skills that can be applied immediately in your daily work.
If you missed the webinar or are ready to take your learning to the next level, don't miss this opportunity to gain hands-on experience with proven de-escalation strategies.
Add De-escalation in Practice to your conference registration and start your conference experience equipped with tools you can use right away.