Professional Fiduciary Association of California · East Bay Chapter
Decoding Difficult Behavior
A practical guide for fiduciaries and care managers working with
clients who exhibit challenging behaviors — real-world solutions,
best practices, and strategies that reduce stress and risk.
Thursday, October 8, 2026
Orinda Community Center, Orinda, CA
1 CEU per person
Event Overview
Confident, compliant responses to challenging client behavior
This presentation will provide a guide for fiduciaries and care managers who work with clients who may exhibit difficult or challenging behaviors. Led by Vanessa Valerio, RN Gerontologist, CMC, CHCA, Co-Founder and Chief Nursing Officer of Care Indeed, the session draws on real-world solutions and best practices to help participants effectively manage unruly client interactions, reduce stress, avoid liability, and remain compliant while delivering quality service.
The session is built around practical takeaways you can apply immediately — de-escalation language, documentation habits that protect you, and a clearer understanding of the clinical and cognitive reasons behind behavior that can feel personal in the moment.
Event Details
Everything you need to know
Location
Orinda Community CenterFounders Room28 Orinda WayOrinda, CA 94563
Date & Time
Thursday, October 8, 202611:30 AM — Lunch & Networking12:00 PM — Presentation
Speaker
Vanessa ValerioRN, CMC, CHCA, GerontologistCare Indeed
Type of Meeting
In-Person Chapter MeetingOpen to Members and Non-Members
Credit
1 CEU per person
Food
Boxed Lunch provided
Member Price
$30
Non-Member Price
$40
Student Price
$25
About the Speaker
Vanessa Valerio
RN, CMC, CHCA, Gerontologist
Co-Founder & Chief Nursing Officer, Care Indeed
Vanessa Valerio is a Registered Nurse, Gerontologist,
Certified Care Manager, and Co-Founder & Chief Nursing
Officer of Care Indeed. Her story begins in 2000, when she
moved to the United States as a caregiver and made the
decision to become a nurse — a choice that would shape the
next two decades of her career.
In 2010, Vanessa co-founded Care Indeed, building it from the
ground up alongside her clinical practice. Over the years, her
role evolved from hands-on caregiving into organizational
leadership, as she grew the company while staying rooted in
the same values that first brought her into this work.
A few years ago, Vanessa discovered a deep passion for
dementia care. That passion led her to pursue certification as
a Dementia Coach, so she could help both professional
caregivers and family caregivers humanize the care they
provide — seeing beyond the diagnosis to the whole person
behind it.
In 2024, seeking to deepen her understanding of the aging
industry and expand her impact, Vanessa pursued her Master of
Science in Gerontology — a decision that reflects her belief
that leadership and learning go hand in hand.
Vanessa doesn't see herself as a typical entrepreneur. For
her, the work has never been about the business alone — it's
about people, purpose, and the belief that every older adult
deserves to age with dignity, connection, and to be truly
seen.
What to Expect
Practical takeaways you can use Monday
Understand the Behavior
Recognize the clinical, cognitive, and emotional drivers behind
difficult client interactions.
De-escalate with Confidence
Learn language and techniques that calm unruly interactions
without damaging the relationship.
Reduce Risk & Liability
Documentation and boundary-setting practices that keep you
compliant and protected.
Protect Your Own Wellbeing
Strategies to lower stress and prevent burnout while still
delivering quality service.
Venue
Orinda Community Center
The East Bay Chapter meeting is hosted in the Founders Room at
the Orinda Community Center — an accessible, comfortable space
with on-site parking, just minutes from Highway 24 and the
Orinda BART station.
28 Orinda Way
Orinda, CA 94563
Orinda, CA 94563
Reserve your seat for October 8
Seating is limited and a boxed lunch is included. RSVP today to
secure your spot and earn 1 CEU.
