Hear from Breann Vandenberg, a Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) instructor from a rural community in Oregon who works in agriculture. Breann shares her first exposure to MHFA, her experience starting MHFA in her area, how it combats stigma and why this training is so effective.
Breann Vandenberg works with the Oregon State University Extension Service based in Lake County, OR. She is an alumnus of the University of Idaho and holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in Animal Science-Physiology. Breann has worked in all facets of animal agriculture and pharmaceutical research, as well as youth programming while providing leadership for the 4-H Youth Development Program in Lake County. In response to community need, in 2020 Breann jumped aboard the Coast to Forest team with Oregon State University, focusing efforts in Mental Health response, building awareness and improving community capacity, and reducing stigma to Mental Health and Substance Use challenge. In addition to her family’s beef operation and county 4-H appointment, she delivers trainings such as Youth and Adult Mental Health First Aid, Question Persuade Refer, and Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) to Pacific Northwest communities.
Christina Clayton has been working in the behavioral health field since 1993 working with people and programs addressing severe mental health issues, substance use, co-occurring issues, chronic homelessness, integrated care, outreach, physical health, trauma and diversity/equity/inclusion topics. Christina has education and licenses/credentials in clinical social work, mental health and substance use. She is also a Clinical Assistant Professor and Field Instructor for the University of Washington School of Social Work (MSW ’97). Learn more about MHTTC Staff & Faculty
