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Bullying Prevention Expert

Clinical Mental Health Therapist

Professional/Motivational Speaker

Researcher

Author

In 1986, Mr. Lakewood earned his Bachelors degree in Social Work at George Williams College, Downers Grove, Illinois. In 1987, while enrolled in the advanced standing program, Mr. Lakewood earned his Masters degree in Social Work at Aurora University, Aurora, Illinois.

After graduating with his Master's degree, Mr. Lakewood provided counseling services at a variety of medical clinics, hospitals, mental health facilities, and a family preservation agency. He also obtained employment at a variety of family preservation and mental health facilities.

Mr. Lakewood developed and facilitated a parenting program for parents of strong-willed children, Techniques In Parenting Skills (TIPS), that gained local recognition. This program taught parents strategies and techniques to help them effectively manage their children's behavior. He also created and developed the Intensive Family Therapy (IFT) model, an observational/interactive technique, which uses teachable moments to help parents learn, develop, and implement effective parenting skills and techniques.

Mr. Lakewood also provided clinical and consultation services to school administrators, educators, and students on issues of bullying and behavior management. He was featured and interviewed on television/radio programs and in newspaper articles. In 2002, Mr. Lakewood opened his own private practice where he provided individual, family, marital, couples, and group therapy outpatient mental health services to children, adolescents, and adults.

Mr. Lakewood is CEO and founder of Building Strong Families National Seminars since 2006. As a motivational/professional speaker, Mr. Lakewood presently facilitates seminars on family-related issues. With his dynamic speaking style, Mr. Lakewood uses humor and practical skills to help others overcome life obstacles. Mr. Lakewood is easy going, an excellent communicator, entertainer, inspiring, provides a relaxed and safe environment, and promotes awareness and understanding to help others obtain the necessary skills to resolve their conflicts. With his enthusiasm, uniqueness, and high energy level, Mr. Lakewood's speaking style keeps his audiences attentive.

In 2006, Mr. Lakewood authored and video-taped his first parenting DVD/downloadable video series entitled the 'Sudden Compliance' Program. This program is designed to empower parents to swiftly improve the behavior of their children at home, school, and within the community. This program is presently available for purchase. In addition to the DVD's/downloadable videos, the 'Sudden Compliance' Program is also offered as a live webinar series.

Also in 2006, Mr. Lakewood authored the 'Standing Up To Bullying' conference. Introducing the latest research, this powerful conference is designed to empower and equip school administrators, educators, social workers, counselors,psychologists, and others who work with children with skills and tools designed to recognize, minimize or eradicate youth bullying and school violence. Mr. Lakewood not only authored this conference but is presently touring the country with it.

In 2007, after working several years with children on issues of bullying, Mr. Lakewood developed the 'Standing Up To Bullying' game. Offered as a computer and card game, this educational and noncompetitive game teaches school-age children anti-bullying skills in a fun and exciting way by teaching effective ways to resolve issues of bullying without resorting to violence. This game can easily be played at home, classroom, and therapy settings. This game is currently offered as a download.

Mr. Lakewood subscribes to three therapeutic models: 1) Ecological/Systems theory, 2) Cognitive theory, and 3) Behavioral theory. The Ecological/Systems model focuses on how we are affected by our environment. The Cognitive model focuses on how we are affected by our thoughts and beliefs. The Behavioral model focuses on how we are affected by our behavior. Mr. Lakewood believes that all three models are very effective in reducing or eliminating emotional and behavioral problems in children, adolescents, and adults.

As a Crohn's disease survivor, Mr. Lakewood continues to encounter medical obstacles which limits his ability to maintain his role as a therapist. However, his condition has not stopped him from sharing his knowledge and expertise with others.