The Society for Clinical and Medical Hair Removal

Prepared! A Healthcare Guide to Aid the Electrolysis with Aging Clients & Parents
2026-01-12 20:00 - 22:00 (America/New_York)
Presented by: Cheryl Field MSN, RN

This session is tailored for caregivers of all types whether you’re caring for a client, a patient, an aging parent, spouse, child, or friend. This session will empower you! The strategies presented will help you understand and be equipped to manage the physical and psychosocial demands of aging clients, including hair growth. This session will cover topics such as balancing self-care with caregiving responsibilities, navigating healthcare systems, effective communication techniques, and accessing support networks. The goal of the session is to help the electrolysis maintain their own health, business, and that of their aging clients. You have a lot on your “shoulders” and we hope you can join for this session designed just for you. Whether you’re a new or have been in this role for years, the session will deliver valuable insights and tools to support your journey. This webinar is not being recorded.

Electrolysis Tissue Injury: From Normal to Extreme Reactions
2026-02-23 20:00 - 22:00 | SCMHR
This presentation examines the full spectrum of tissue responses to electroepilation. Participants learn to distinguish expected inflammatory reactions from adverse outcomes, understand tissue healing mechanisms, and apply strategies that balance treatment efficacy with skin integrity. Emphasis is placed on clinical decision-making, risk reduction, and maintaining professional trust.

Presented by: Joanie Gonella

Joanie Gonella is a Licensed Professional Electrologist since 2003, Joanie owns and operates OC Electrolysis & Skin Care, a successful Electrology clinic in Orange County, CA. As a nationally and internationally recognized trainer and speaker in the field of electrology, Joanie has travelled the world to further both the education and profession of electrology. After 15 years of growing her business, cultivating a broad client base, and lecturing worldwide, Joanie redirected her efforts to growing the next generation of electrologists. Utilizing her extensive experience and professional training. Joanie has been a Certified Professional Electrologist since 2013. In 2018 she formed California Electrology Academy, Southern California’s premier electrology school. Joanie has a Baccalaureate degree in Neuroscience from the University of California, Irvine and a Post-Baccalaureate pre-medical certificate from Florida Atlantic University.

PCOS & Our Role as Electrologists
2026-03-09 20:00 - 22:00
This course provides an in-depth understanding of polycystic ovary syndrome (pcos) and the critical role hair removal experts play in managing the condition. Participants will learn about the effects of androgens on hair growth, diagnosing hirsutism, treatment options, and advocacy for the pcos community.
Learning Outcomes: By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

Understand the effects of androgens on hair growth.
Diagnose hirsutism and recognize its signs and symptoms.
Identify and understand drugs that curb androgen levels and their prescribers.
Find and collaborate with practitioners specializing in hormone care.
Apply appropriate electrolysis and laser therapies while avoiding post-treatment hyperpigmentation.
Advocate effectively for clients with PCOS and engage with the PCOS community

Presented by: Stephanie Shields, CPE, Electrologist Laser Specialist, Educator, Advocate: Stephanie Shields, CPE, is a highly regarded electrologist, laser specialist, educator, and industry advocate with over two decades of experience in permanent hair removal. She has been a laser specialist since 2003 and an electrologist since 2004. Stephanie is the co-owner of Zap Master Electrology, a seven-station electrology school in Washington state, specializing in all modalities of electrolysis. Her expertise spans education, clinical practice, and business development in the field of hair removal.

HEC Signature Hair Removal Consultation
2026-04-20 20:00 - 22:00
Guided by knowledge. Customized for you. A comprehensive, education based approach to hair removal. Developed through decades of clinical experience and continued education. Refined with insights from multiple professional perspectives. Focused on long term results **not quick fixes. Empowering clients through understanding, trust, and realistic expectations.

Presented by: Robyn Graham, CPE LE RE CME CCE CLHRP LSO

*This will not be recorded.

Comprehensive Consultations: Setting the Stage for Success
2026-05-11 20:00 - 22:00
Presenter: Stephanie Shields, CPE, CLS
Course Description:
A successful electrology consultation begins long before the first insertion. This course explores how to create a seamless, professional, and client-centered consultation process that builds trust, improves treatment outcomes, and strengthens long-term client relationships. Participants will learn how to guide clients from initial contact through assessment, treatment planning, documentation, education, and follow-up care.
Topics include phone and online communication, intake forms, consultation terminology, informed consent, medical considerations, treatment planning, realistic expectation setting, progress tracking, and relationship-building strategies. Special emphasis is placed on communication skills, professionalism, inclusive care, and creating a welcoming environment for clients of all backgrounds.
This course is designed to help electrologists refine their consultation techniques while improving client retention, documentation practices, and interdisciplinary communication with medical professionals.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

Explain the role of the consultation in establishing trust, professionalism, and long-term treatment success.
Demonstrate effective communication strategies for phone calls, online scheduling, and in-person consultations.
Identify essential components of comprehensive intake forms, informed consent, and client documentation.
Recognize medical red flags, contraindications, and situations requiring referral or medical clearance.
Discuss electrolysis modalities and treatment expectations using terminology that aligns with client understanding and comfort levels.
Develop individualized treatment plans based on hair growth patterns, skin type, medical history, lifestyle factors, and client goals.
Educate clients on realistic timelines, pain expectations, healing responses, aftercare, and treatment consistency.
Utilize photographs, SOAP notes, and progress documentation to monitor outcomes and support continuity of care.
Apply inclusive and trauma-informed communication techniques, including respectful terminology, preferred names, and culturally competent interactions.
Implement follow-up and retention strategies that improve client confidence, compliance, and long-term professional relationships.
Understand the importance of interdisciplinary communication and how electrology integrates into broader medical, dermatological, and gender-affirming care settings.

Modern Marketing Playbook for Laser Hair Removal Electrolysis Providers.
2026-05-18 20:00 - 22:00
We’ll share what’s driving patient growth right now, including how to rise to the top of AI-powered search results, use social media that actually converts, and host in-office events that
fill your schedule fast.
Presented By: Sherry Sbraccia
You’ll learn:
● How AI and Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) are reshaping Google search
● Smart strategies to grow your visibility and attract ideal patients
● Proven steps to become your area’s most recommended provider

The Art and Science of Hair Growth Cycles: Implications for Treatment Planning
2026-06-29 20:00 - 22:00
Course Description:
This course provides an in-depth review of hair growth cycles and their critical role in electrology and laser hair removal. Participants will explore the anagen, catagen, and telogen phases and learn how accurate cycle assessments impact treatment efficacy. Through case studies, students will analyze real-world examples demonstrating the significance of understanding growth cycles in optimizing treatment outcomes. Additionally, the course will cover strategies for client education, helping practitioners set realistic expectations and manage treatment timelines effectively.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

Identify and explain the phases of the hair growth cycle.
Assess the importance of targeting the anagen phase in permanent hair removal treatments.
Analyze case studies demonstrating the impact of accurate cycle assessments on treatment success.
Develop effective client communication strategies regarding hair growth cycles and treatment timelines.
Apply knowledge of growth cycles to improve treatment planning and optimize long-term results.

Instructor: Joanie Gonella
Duration: 2 Hours
Speaker Bio
Joanie Gonella is a Licensed Professional Electrologist and the founder of California Electrology Academy and OC Electrolysis & Skin Care. With over 20 years of clinical and educational experience, she is a Certified Professional Electrologist and a nationally recognized trainer and speaker. Joanie co-founded the Electrology Education Coalition in 2023 to advance research, education, and community in the field. She holds a degree in Neuroscience from UC Irvine and a post-baccalaureate pre-medical certificate from Florida Atlantic University.
