Just want to make sure you know that my contract for teaching for the State of WA DSHS has come to an end, as it has for many of our WA State independent trainers, as the state makes changes. 
It appears that caregiver training has become a very political issue.  I still get calls, however, from clients and students who want business coaching and specific guidance.  I can still teach you Care Home Business Strategy, I just don't have authorization to give you a Wa State sanctioned certificate for that. 

If you're looking for WA State caregiving classes, I think your best shot is to connect with Robin VanHyning.  She accomplished what I'd been asking the state permission to do for years... getting the trainings online and approved by the state.  She also has trainers in local areas of the state for the hands on skills testing.  

Here's her contact information: (Please do tell her I sent you!)
Contact: Robin VanHyning
Phone: (360) 317-4529
Fax: (510) 280-9023
Email: chtcompany@gmail.com
Company website is www.CHTCompanyOnline.com
Classroom website is www.chcc.digitalchalk.com

Many thanks to you for connecting with me and for the work you do in providing quality care in your Adult Family Home. 

Blessings,
Jo Lyn

Just read an article discussing this politically hot issue.  If you're in the long term care industry in WA State, it's a must read.  Here's the link:
http://www.washingtonstatewire.com/home/8836-seiu_home_care_training_program_gets_10_million_while_workers_get_massive_cuts.htm

Besides being an AFH trainer since 1996, I have my own AFH - and yes, after 5 years living in as owner/operator, burnout took me out in a big way. I became so ill that I doubted my ability to survive.I never expected that stress would get me down...  after all, I am a nurse, a trainer, and I thought I was doing everything "right". 
You know the statisticians tell us that @ 90% of illnesses are stress related, but they don't tell us what to do about it or how to prevent it. Many people feel that they are somehow "lacking in character" if they
experience burnout. 

A basic awareness of the different kinds of stress and the cellular physiology of how our bodies react to stress is the first critical step in combating it.  Then, there is a five step process that I teach on how to stop stress in it's tracks, and regain good health. Even better news is that there are specific ways to prevent burnout from happening in the first place, and a special approach you can take to keep the energy in your home peaceful and nurturing - even in crisis.

Don't let burnout get you down.  There's ways to heal, and even to prevent it.  Contact me for more information.

2011 brings new caregiver training requirements for the State of Washington for Individual Care Providers, Adult Family Home Care Givers, and Assisted Living Care Givers.  Here's information from the state to Community Based Educators - like me: Can Community Instructors Provide Continuing Education Training to Individual Providers?