Behavioral Health in a Time of Polarization: A Discussion on Emotional Well-Being in Law Firms
Date: October 15, 2025
Time: 4-5:30 p.m. ET
Register: https://philadelphiabar.org/?pg=events&evAction=showDetail&eid=308487
Topic: Behavioral Health in a Time of Polarization: Supporting Legal Professionals When Silence Isn’t Neutral
Description: In today’s increasingly polarized social and political climate, law firms face a growing tension between the responsibility to foster psychologically safe workplaces and the perceived risks of speaking out on divisive issues. At the same time, lawyers and legal professionals are experiencing rising rates of stress, burnout, and moral fatigue, challenges that are exacerbated by workplace cultures that may remain silent during times of societal upheaval.
This program brings together behavioral health expert Renee Branson, MA, CReC, a resilience and emotional well-being leader, and Gina Rubel, a 30-year bar association member, past board member, public relations expert, and legal industry strategist. They will explore:
- The impact of polarization and silence on mental health and workplace culture in law firms.
- How legal employers can shift from performative to meaningful support of attorney and staff well-being.
- Tools for legal leaders and HR professionals to recognize, respond to, and support behavioral health needs.
- Practical strategies for communication, empathy, crisis planning, and resilience-building in an environment that often demands stoicism.
Whether attendees are in leadership, human resources, or simply concerned about your colleagues’ mental wellness, this program will provide actionable insights to navigate the complex intersection of mental health, professional responsibility, corporate communications, and institutional values.