The Counselor Hygienist-Kandice Swarthout, RDH, LPC

04/12/2025

EMPOWER is a trauma-informed framework that helps dental teams create safer, more supportive patient experiences.

Credit to for the EMPOWER model 🤍

✅ Small actions. Big impact.

03/12/2025

A reminder to all healthcare professionals today! 💙

03/12/2025

Thank you for the amazing feedback. 💙✨

02/12/2025

Let’s level up patient care together! 💜
Catch me live at the Winter CE Blizz as we unpack effective support for patients with eating disorders.
Virtual + 1.5 CE — register now https://www.greatercollindha.org/ ❄️

27/11/2025

Happy Thanksgiving! 🦃

Today we gather with grateful hearts, share laughter with loved ones, and celebrate the blessings. Big and small things that make life sweeter. May your day be filled with warmth, good food, and even better company. 🥧🍁

26/11/2025

How can dental professionals support grieving patients?

- Build trust before asking sensitive questions.
- Avoid clichés like “time heals everything.”
- Allow space for patients to share their feelings.
- Ask supportive questions, such as:
“How will you remember your loved one this holiday season?”
- Offer extra listening time for comfort.
- Provide referrals to mental health providers or grief support groups.

Learn and read more here: https://www.todaysrdh.com/mental-health-spotlight-grief-can-make-holiday-dental-appointments-not-so-jolly-and-bright/

26/11/2025

Dental professionals should be aware that grief can impact patients during their visits. A routine hygiene appointment may feel heavier for someone who is grieving, as even small triggers, like music or decorations, can evoke strong emotions.

🦷 Signs of grief in the dental setting include:

🪥 Sudden tears or emotional overwhelm
🪥 Difficulty concentrating
🪥Anxiety or withdrawal
🪥 Fatigue or tension
🪥 Unusual quietness or irritability

Learn and read more here: https://www.todaysrdh.com/mental-health-spotlight-grief-can-make-holiday-dental-appointments-not-so-jolly-and-bright/

24/11/2025

Not everyone feels merry and bright during the holidays. In the dental chair, grief can show up in quiet ways. A little empathy can go a long way. 😔

Remember: You may be the only person that day who treats the patient with patience, empathy, and kindness. Trauma-informed care doesn’t require complicated systems, just awareness, compassion, and willingness to meet people where they are.

As we navigate the holiday season, let’s approach every patient with greater sensitivity. Behind the smiles, there may be stories of loss. Acknowledging that truth can make a powerful difference.

Learn and read more here: https://www.todaysrdh.com/mental-health-spotlight-grief-can-make-holiday-dental-appointments-not-so-jolly-and-bright/

For most of us, the holidays are a time of joy, family, remembrance, feasting, and celebration. We come together with family and friends with the intent

21/11/2025

Empowering dental professionals to recognise, respond, and support those at risk. 💙
Join us in making mental health a priority in every dental practice.

Visit https://www.kandiceswarthout.com to learn more!

20/11/2025

Let’s break the stigma, one term, one conversation at a time. 💙

19/11/2025

A thriving dental team starts with a supportive culture.
Here are simple, intentional ways to create a calmer, healthier workplace. 🦷💙

19/11/2025

In-person CE is here!

Learn how trauma impacts dental fear and how to create safe, empowering experiences for your patients.

Hosting a conference or big team event? Kandice is available for hire to speak to large groups and would love to support your organization.

Visit https://www.inspirededucationce.com/courses for more information.