NOTE: The entire Professional Skills Certificate Program, containing all 15 modules in the series, is also for sale as a single discounted item. Look for the “Professional Skills for Early Career Certificate Program” in the CE Smart Catalog to purchase

This bundle contains the following modules:

Presented by: Tammy L. Filipiak RDH, MS, FADHA

Course Description: This course explores why effective communication is essential for dental hygienists to deliver high-quality patient care and collaborate successfully within interprofessional teams. Throughout the module, you will receive a comprehensive overview of verbal, non-verbal, visual, and written communication strategies tailored specifically to clinical environments. By engaging with real-world scenarios, you will learn to recognize common communication barriers, such as patient anxiety, limited health literacy, and team hierarchy. You will also apply active listening techniques to foster understanding and trust. Ultimately, you will leave equipped with practical tools, frameworks, and best practices to navigate challenging conversations, elevate your communication skills, and enhance both patient outcomes and your professional team dynamics.

Presented by: Melia Lewis, MEd, RDH, FADHA

Course Description: Clinical excellence alone is not enough to create meaningful patient experiences. It’s how patients feel during care often matters more than the procedures themselves. Participants will learn practical, evidence-based strategies to enhance rapport, including active listening, empathy, nonverbal communication, and patient-centered dialogue. Through real-world examples, dental professionals will develop skills to confidently navigate challenging patient interactions, foster connection, and create a more positive and productive clinical environment. This course emphasizes that while clinical skills may secure a position, strong interpersonal skills are what build lasting patient relationships, increase case acceptance, and elevate long-term career success.

Presented by: Lesley Harbison, MS, RDH, EPP, FADHA

Course Description: Every patient who sits in your chair brings more than a chief complaint. They bring fears, experiences, and expectations. This module examines the role of empathy and person-centered care in dental hygiene practice, exploring how meaningful communication transforms clinical encounters. You will leave with a clear framework for connecting with patients as whole people, not just cases to be treated.

CE Credit Hours: 2.0

Course Launch Date: August 1, 2026

The American Dental Hygienists' Association is designated as an approved provider by the American Academy of Dental Hygiene, Inc. #AADHADH (Jan. 1, 2026–Dec. 31, 2026). Approval does not imply acceptance by a state or provincial Board of Dentistry. Licensee should maintain this document in the event of an audit.

The American Dental Hygienists’ Association is an approved provider of dental continuing education as recognized by the Dental Board of California, Provider #5238.