Training and Events Calendar

La salud física y la salud emocional deben ser tratadas con la misma seriedad y prioridad. En la comunidad latina el estigma hacia la salud mental puede impedir y/o el atrasar la búsqueda de los servicios de salud mental. Durante este taller platicaremos sobre la importancia de cuidar nuestra salud emocional para prevenir condiciones como la depresión y ansiedad. Los/as participantes identificarán los principales estresores psicosociales en la comunidad latina, utilizarán estrategias para el manejo efectivo de las emociones, practicarán técnicas de relajación, y desarrollarán metas para mantener un balance holístico.   OBJECTIVOS DE APRENDIZAJE Definir bienestar emocional y salud mental. Identificar factores culturales que influyen en el proceso de aculturación de las comunidades Latinas. Proveer estrategias para manejar la regulación emocional y prevenir condiciones de salud mental.   AUDIENCIA Esta plática es dirigida a promotores/as de la salud, manejadores/as de caso y consejeros.   PRESENTERS Isa I. Vélez Echevarría, PsyD  Isa Vélez es psicóloga clínica, puertorriqueña. Es la manejadora de proyecto del estado de Ohio para los Great Lakes Addiction, Mental Health, and Prevention Technology Transfer Centers,  administrados por el Center for Health Enhancement Systems Studies en la University de Wisconsin-Madison. Durante su internado predoctoral en el Children's Institute de Los Ángeles, CA, obtuvo una certificación como Clínica de Psicoterapia Interpersonal. Se capacitó en Terapia Cognitivo Conductual Centrada en el Trauma y Terapia Familiar. Además, brinda servicios de telesalud a comunidades de color en Massachusetts y Puerto Rico. Su trabajo clínico se ha centrado en servicios culturalmente adaptados e informados sobre el trauma para las comunidades latinas. Alfredo Cerrato-Lanzo Alfredo Cerrato es el Oficial Principal de Desarrollo Cultural y Laboral del Great Lakes Technology Transfer Centers, administrados por el Center for Health Enhancement Systems Studies de la Universidad de Wisconsin en Madison. También es capacitador certificado a nivel nacional en Cultura: una parte integral de los servicios de salud mental, Aplicación clínica de elementos culturales en el tratamiento de salud mental para poblaciones hispanas y latinas, por el National Hispanic and Latino Mental Health Technology Transfer Center en Puerto Rico, y un capacitador de la Asociación Nacional de Consejeros de Alcoholismo y Abuso de Drogas (NAADAC, por sus siglas en inglés) en temas culturales. El Sr. Cerrato tiene 25 años de experiencia en relaciones internacionales y se especializa en comunicaciones interculturales, resolución de conflictos y mejora de procesos. Ha llevado a cabo trabajos de defensa, políticas y ayuda en casos de desastre en Irlanda del Norte, Honduras, Perú, Brasil, Japón, Sri Lanka y otros lugares del mundo. Su enfoque principal en Wisconsin ha sido trabajar con comunidades hmong, hispanas, latinas y pueblos indígenas de América del Norte a través de asistencia y capacitación intensiva, desarrollo de currículos y el NIATx, Change Leader Academy. This training is in partnership with: HOLA (Healthy Opportunities for Latin Americans) Great Lakes MHTTC ofrece esta capacitación para personas que trabajan en la Región 5 del HHS: IL, IN, MI, MN, OH, WI. Esta capacitación se brinda en respuesta a una necesidad identificada por las partes interesadas de la Región 5.

Learn more about innovative approaches to supporting better outcomes for those who provide care as well as those seeking and receiving behavioral health care in communities of color in New England! Join us and... Take a dive deep into the stats around the mental health and well-being of individuals and communities of color. Hear from thought leaders, researchers, practitioners, faith and community-based leaders, people with lived experience, and family advocates to discuss innovative approaches to fostering inclusion and engagement. Take away tools, resources, and actionable solutions to build a positive, inclusive, and transformational culture in your community/workplace.   This regional training event will take place daily from 11 am - 1 pm ET, Monday, May 13 - Wednesday, May 15, 2024. More info on the agenda, speakers, and CE credits available. Participants are eligible to receive attendance certificates and up to 6 CE credits upon confirmation of attendance and participation. Learn more about the event and register today!   The 2024 Innovations Virtual Regional Training Event is brought to you in collaboration with partners from the New England region’s Technology Transfer Center (TTC) Network—New England Addiction TTC, the New England Prevention TTC, and the New England Mental Health TTC.   If you would like accommodations to participate in any of our events, please contact us at [email protected] ahead of the event date. For example, if you would like an ASL interpreter, please let us know 3 weeks ahead of the event date so we have sufficient time to secure the services.  

  This 3-part learning series is intended for individuals working in behavioral health who are interested in building skills that will help increase their engagement in advocacy efforts promoting Hispanic and Latino behavioral health equity. This series will begin with an overview of the importance of advocacy for promoting equity, will transition to skill-building for advocacy, and end with developing action plans for engaging in advocacy. The goal of this series is to better equip and prepare behavioral health workers to advocate for behavioral health equity for Hispanic/ Latino clients and communities at the local, state, or federal. After the 3-part webinar series, an optional follow-up learning collaborative of non-profit organizations from Region 5 (IL, IN, MI, MN, OH, WI) will share about how they are advocating for Latino communities.     LEARNING OBJECTIVES: In session 2, Skill-Building for Advocacy, participants will learn: Key strategies for effective behavioral health advocacy Skills to engage using these key strategies     TRAINING SCHEDULE: Session 1, The Role of Advocacy in Promoting Behavioral Health Equity: April 9, 12:00–1:30 PM CT Session 2, Skill-Building for Advocacy: May 14, 12:00–1:30 PM CT Session 3, Action in Advocacy: June 25, 12:00–1:30 PM CT     CERTIFICATES: Registrants who fully attend this training will receive a certificate of attendance via email within two weeks after the conclusion of the series.     PRESENTER: Marilyn Sampilo, PhD, MPH, is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in integrated behavioral health and health disparities among minority populations. She received her PhD in clinical child psychology with an emphasis in pediatric psychology from the University of Kansas and a Master of Public Health from the University of Kansas Medical Center, both of which allowed her to specialize in physical and mental health promotion and prevention efforts to address health disparities among underserved populations. She has extensive experience in the cultural adaptation of treatment and interventions for Hispanic/Latinx children and families and in community engagement and advocacy for this target population. She is currently a Psychologist in the Center for Pediatric Behavioral Health at Cleveland Clinic, leads the Center’s health equity and social justice initiatives, and is a consultant and trainer on issues of diversity and cultural proficiency.     The Great Lakes MHTTC is offering this training for individuals working in HHS Region 5: IL, IN, MI, MN, OH, WI. This training is being provided in response to a need identified by Region 5 stakeholders.

This learning community is closed to select participants.  To learn more about this series, visit the homepage: Implementing Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) in Kansas  

  This series takes place on May 14, 21, 28 and June 4, 2024 from 2:30 PM–4:00 PM CT. You must attend all dates to receive your certificate.   DESCRIPTION: The NIATx Change Leader Academy (CLA) is the web-based version of the popular NIATx Change Leader Academy. The CLA has given thousands of behavioral health organizations the tools to make real changes that improve their systems of care. This interactive, expert-led program includes four weekly 90-minute learning sessions. An optional organizational consultation is available following the four sessions. This training and consultation are offered at no cost and are supported by funding from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).     LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Participants in the virtual CLA will learn:  The NIATx principles and how they motivate positive change How to build a change team and integrate NIATx principles at the organizational level How to conduct a change project to improve a specific process within their organization     CONTINUING EDUCATION: Registrants who fully attend this event or training will be eligible to receive 6 NAADAC-certified continuing education (CE) hours. CE certificates will be sent to qualified individuals via email within two weeks after the training.       PRESENTER: Mat Roosa, LCSW-R Mat Roosa was a founding member of NIATx and has been a NIATx coach for a wide range of projects. He works as a consultant in the areas of quality improvement, organizational development, and planning, evidence-based practice implementation. His experience includes direct clinical practice in mental health and substance use services, teaching at the undergraduate and graduate levels, and human service agency administration.       The Great Lakes A/MHTTC is offering this training for individuals working in HHS Region 5: IL, IN, MI, MN, OH, WI. This training is being provided in response to a need identified by Region 5 stakeholders.

SERIES DESCRIPTION The Central East MHTTC in collaboration with the National Center for School Mental Health is pleased to offer a school mental health webinar series with a focus on advancing high quality, sustainable school mental health from a multi-tiered system of support, trauma sensitive, and culturally responsive and equitable lens. To familiarize yourself with the foundations of school mental health, please review the school mental health guidance document. LEARNING OBJECTIVES Identify data sources to decrease disproportionality and promote equitable emotional, behavioral, and academic outcomes among BIPOC students Describe how to analyze data with an equity-focused lens Explore strategies to enhance data collection that are anti-racist and inclusive PRESENTERS Elizabeth Connors, PhD, is a Child-Clinical/Community Psychologist who is currently an Assistant Professor in the Yale School of Medicine, at the Yale Child Study Center, and an adjunct faculty member at the University of Maryland National Center for School Mental Health. Dr. Connors directs the Yale Program on School Mental Health Implementation Consultation and Research, which seeks to promote equitable access to high quality mental health promotion, prevention, early intervention, and treatment services in K-12 schools. She and her team have expertise in student- and family-centered, data-informed quality improvement practices and evidence-based practice implementation in schools.   Ashley Griffin Gilchrist, PhD, is an Assistant Professor and Child and Adolescent Studies Program Coordinator at Bowie State University in the Department of Behavioral Sciences and Human Services. Previously, she served as Vice President of Policy, Evaluation, and Research at the Black Teacher Collaborative (BTC), leading efforts to leverage data for developing and supporting Black educators to enhance Black children's achievements across social, emotional, and intellectual spheres. Before BTC, she directed P-12 research at the Education Trust, a civil rights organization focused on education. Dr. Gilchrist's career has been dedicated to exploring the intersections of race, education policy, and the academic experiences of Black children, families, and teachers. Her impactful work has been featured in major media outlets, including the New York Times and NPR, and she has presented at significant national conferences and Capitol Hill briefings. Dr. Gilchrist holds degrees from Georgetown and Howard Universities, including a Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology and certificates in Large Scale Assessment and Nonprofit Executive Leadership from the University of Maryland College Park and Georgetown's McCourt School of Public Policy, respectively. She is a committed scholar, advocate, and a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. AUDIENCE Educators, Administrators, Health and Behavioral Health Care Professionals, Central East (Region 3) Project AWARE Grantees, Policymakers and Advocates, and Child-Serving Agency Staff

Registration is now closed. Limited space available. Priority registration will be given to those working in Region 5: IL, IN, MI, MN, OH, WI.   Motivational Interviewing (MI) is an evidence-based collaborative conversational style used to help strengthen an individual's own motivation and commitment to change. In this interactive, skills-based workshop, participants will have the opportunity to learn about and practice the spirit and relational skills of MI.   Note: Participants must complete Motivational Interviewing: Relational Skills (Level 1) to be eligible to attend the subsequent training in the MI series: Motivational Interviewing: Technical Skills (Level 2). Those who fully attend Level 1 will automatically receive an invitation to register to attend Level 2.   LEARNING OBJECTIVES: After completing Motivational Interviewing: Relational Skills (Level 1), participants will: Have an introductory level understanding of the purpose, benefits, and challenges of MI Understand and practice the four processes used in MI: planning, evoking, focusing, and engaging Recognize differences between helpful client engagement vs. harmful client engagement Prepare to apply the spirit of Motivational Interviewing to patient interactions Observe and practice the core skills of MI: listening, open-ended questions, affirmations, reflections, and summarization.   TRAINING DATES: you must attend all dates listed below in their entirety to receive CEs. May 15, 2024 from 8:30am-11:30am CT/9:30am-12:30pm ET May 22, 2024 from 8:30am-11:30am CT/9:30am-12:30pm ET May 29, 2024 from 8:30am-11:30am CT/9:30am-12:30pm ET   CONTINUING EDUCATION: Registrants who fully attend this training will be eligible to receive 9 NAADAC certified continuing education (CE) hours. CE certificates are sent via email within two weeks after the conclusion of the training.   TRAINER: Sue EckMaahs has practiced and trained Motivational Interviewing (MI) for over 30 years.  With a background in Sociology, she has provided MI implementation, training, and coaching services to thousands of professionals and over two hundred organizations, nationally & internationally.  Her audience spans mental health, substance abuse, public health & primary care, education, child protection/family reunification, workforce development, and re-entry/corrections.  On a personal note, she loves hiking with her partner Steve & dog, Cassie!     To ensure all participants get the most out of these interactive virtual trainings, we ask that everyone be prepared to do the following in every session: The Great Lakes A/MHTTC is offering this training for individuals working in HHS Region 5: IL, IN, MI, MN, OH, WI. This training is being provided in response to a need identified by Region 5 stakeholders.

Join us for an engaging panel discussion designed for those with lived experience working as peers and mental health professionals seeking collaborative opportunities! This panel will cover the unique perspective that individuals with lived experiences bring to the peer support role. We'll showcase how these diverse experiences enrich peer support and contribute to the effectiveness of mental health treatment and recovery. This information is particularly pertinent for mental health professionals aiming to integrate and optimize their collaborative efforts with peers in diverse professional settings.   LEARNING OBJECTIVES Explain the integral role peers play in mental health services, promoting inclusivity, understanding, and empowerment in the recovery process. Explore the unique perspective that individuals with lived experiences bring to this role, emphasizing how these experiences contribute to effective peer support and recovery. Showcase the various career pathways available for peers, including opportunities within mental health organizations, community settings, and collaborative healthcare environments.   CERTIFICATES Registrants who fully attend this event or training will receive a certificate of attendance via email within two weeks after the event or training.   PRESENTERS Danielle Burkett, MSW, LSW, CSPR-PR, CAPRCII, MATS, CHW/CRS, Founder/Executive Director and Peer Recovery Coach, Unlikely Journeys Danielle is a passionate and accomplished professional with a Master of Social Work. Her background includes working in three county jails, work release programs, and alongside a police officer. Since 2017, she has been making a difference as a Peer Recovery Coach. However, her inspiring journey took an unexpected turn in March 2022 when she suffered a stroke. This life-altering event propelled Danielle to found Unlikely Journeys, an organization driven by the belief that time is precious, and fear is merely an illusion.   Mallory Chaffin, BS, Executive Director, Mallory's Mission Mallory, a University of Southern Indiana alumna, holds a BS in Accounting and Professional Services and has over a decade’s worth of experience in various accounting settings, including the nonprofit industry. A proud participant of the Indiana DMHA Leadership Fellows Academy (LFA) 2022-2023 program, she leveraged the experience and startup funding to establish a nonprofit business. As an adoptee and adoptive mother, Mallory's passion lies in providing trauma-informed education to foster and adoptive families. Her nonprofit also extends support to first families, particularly those affected by addiction, in their journey toward reunification with their children. The LFA program played a pivotal role in launching and nurturing her nonprofit initiative.   Yvette Markey, CHW/CRS, Y-MHFA, A-MHFA, MATS, CSPR-PR, CAPRC II-MH, CBTi, CEO/Founder, InTouch Outreach Yvette, is the Founder/CEO of InTouch Outreach (ITOR), a Recovery Community Organization and also works on the Behavioral Health Team, with a local organization providing Peer support services and Recovery Support groups as part of their newly created IOP Program. As a person with lived experiences of trauma, addiction and mental health challenges, Yvette is able to identify things that may be helpful as a person works towards their personal wellness. As a Human Services Professional that serves to connect people in need to people who care, her expertise aligns perfectly for the alignment of joining this panel. Yvette’s passion for helping people to help themselves has led her to some of the roughest streets of Indianapolis, the services she provides reach those in need. In her free time, she enjoys a good book, gardening and spending time with family, and outdoors in the warmer months enjoying nature.   The Great Lakes MHTTC is offering this training for individuals working in HHS Region 5: IL, IN, MI, MN, OH, WI. This training is being provided in response to a need identified by Region 5 stakeholders.

Event Description Review the increased nutritional needs of pregnancy and lactation. Learn about obstacles to achieving optimal dietary intake during pregnancy and after birth.  Explore the link between worsened mental health and poor or limited dietary intake in mothers and infants. Describe some steps clinicians can take to support people during the perinatal period through the lens of nutrition.    Trainer Nathaniel Johnson, PhD  Dr. Nathaniel Johnson is in his second year as an assistant professor at the University of North Dakota. He received his doctorate only a year and a half ago in Nutrition and Exercise Sciences from NDSU. He has published 14 research papers across a diverse set of journals such as Nutrition and Metabolic Insights, The Journal of Clinical Medicine, and Sensors. He is the founder and organizer of the UND Disability Affinity Network for Employees and is passionate about nutrition, disability, and equity. On a personal note, he loves his family, enjoys sports and competitions of all varieties, and has never met a dog that he doesn’t like.     

Event Description WHEN:  Every Wednesday, May 15 – June 12, 2024 from 12:00 – 1:30 PM Mountain/1:00 – 2:30 PM Central  LEARNING OBJECTIVES:  At the end of the series, participants will be able to:  Identify the key components of effective, trauma-informed crisis intervention and suicide prevention strategies within diverse communities.  Apply evidence-based techniques in crisis intervention to reduce risk factors and increase protective factors in acute suicidality.  Recognize and address the unique cultural and societal factors influencing mental health crises.  Utilize practical skills in empathetic communication, assessment, safety planning, and transitioning care in crisis situations.  Develop and implement an action plan for integrating crisis intervention and suicide prevention best practices into their professional setting.  INTENDED AUDIENCE:  Mental health professionals who are located in the Mountain Pains MHTTC region (HHS Region 8 includes CO, MT, ND, SD, UT, and WY).  PARTICIPANT COMMITMENT & EXPECTATIONS:  Attend a live 1-hour Orientation Session on May 15 at 12pm MT/1pm CT  Commit to 4-weeks of training for 1.5 hours weekly from May 22 – June 12  Complete 1-hour of weekly self-study learning activities  Access to appropriate technology to utilize online videoconferencing platform (i.e., an internet connection, webcam, computer/tablet, speakers, and microphone)  Be prepared and actively engage while on camera during the scheduled series time.    THERE IS NO COST TO PARTICIPATE  Registration for this series is limited to 35 mental health/behavioral health professionals who work in HHS Region 8 states on a first come first served basis (Region 8 includes Colorado, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming). Once the 35 spots have been filled, registration will be closed. Due to limited enrollment, if you cannot commit to the full requirements, please defer this opportunity to others.  Note: It is expected that participants will have access to the appropriate technology to be able fully participate and be on camera during the session. This is not a webinar series and active participation is required to gain/improve skills.  CONTINUING EDUCATION:  The series has been approved for a total of 11 contact hours (10-hours content instruction and 1-hour orientation session). No credit will be awarded for non-attendance. The knowledge and skills learned should be applied within the framework of any applicable Operating and/or Credentialing regulations in your State of practice.  Trainer Bianca D. McCall, LMFT 

The Community Resiliency Model (CRM) is a skill-based wellness and prevention program that provides a biological, non-stigmatizing perspective on normal human reactions to stress and trauma. In this webinar we will apply CRM to schools by teaching skills for educators, administrators, and the school mental health workforce to reduce burnout and promote staff retention. Attendees will gain knowledge of concepts to understand stress responses in themselves and others as well as learn skills to help regain emotional balance after experiencing strong negative emotions. The knowledge and skills gained will help attendees avoid burn-out and promote cultures of resiliency in schools to better support student mental health.   Learning objectives: 1. Describe how stress and trauma affect mental and physical health. 2. Describe how CRM can protect and heal via sensory-motor awareness. 3. Explain the 6 CRM skills. 4. Understand how CRM can help reduce burnout and promote resiliency.

The Person-Centered Recovery Planning (PCRP) Consultation Corner is a 6-month learning series featuring a monthly webinar on the “FAQs” of PCRP; offering practical tools and resources to support quality PCRP at the level of both individual service delivery and organizational systems change; and providing follow-up “office hours” through smaller-group technical assistance for webinar participants who wish to take a “deeper dive” on a given topic. The topic of webinar session 3 is "Peer Specialist Roles in PCRP-Aligning with Peer Ethics & Values." At the end of the series, participants will be able to: Define PCRP and its essential elements Increase familiarity with existing and emerging state and federal requirements regarding PCRP Articulate a minimum of three differences between traditional methods of treatment planning and best-practice PCRP Learn more about how the MHTTC PCRP Consultation Corner series can provide tools and resources to support the implementation of PCRP at your organization   While the Consultation Corner’s webinar series is open to a national audience, priority for technical assistance office hours following this webinar session on May 15 will be given to webinar participants from the New England (Massachusetts, Connecticut, Vermont, Maine, Rhode Island, New Hampshire) and South Southwest (Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Texas) regions.   Presenters: Janis Tondora and Amy Pierce Janis Tondora, Psy.D., is an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the Yale School of Medicine.  Her work involves supporting the implementation of person-centered practices that help people with behavioral health concerns and other disabilities to get more control over decisions about their services so they can live a good life as they define it. She has provided training and consultation to over 25 states seeking to implement Person-Centered Recovery Planning and has shared her work with the field in dozens of publications, including her 2014 book, Partnering for Recovery in Mental Health: A Practical Guide to Person-Centered Planning. Janis’ consultation and publications have been widely used by both public and private service systems to advance the implementation of recovery-oriented practices in the U.S. and abroad. She is a life-long resident of Connecticut where she lives with her husband and beloved labradoodles after recently becoming an empty-nester with two children in college.   Amy Pierce (she/her) is an international trainer and consultant has been working in the Peer Movement in the State of Texas for over two decades. She currently serves as Recovery Institute Associate Director at Via Hope by serving as a subject matter expert on the implementation of peer services and other recovery-oriented practices. She has extensive experience in the peer support sector, having started the first peer support program in the state hospitals in Texas, working as a peer support worker in a community mental health agency, and working as the Program Coordinator for a transitional peer residential housing project.   This series is co-sponsored by the New England and South Southwest MHTTCs. More information about the series.   Continuing Education Units for this event are offered by the Office of Professional Development, Steve Hicks School of Social Work, The University of Texas at Austin: · Social Work · Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) · Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)   Continuing Education Units for this event are offered by the Texas Institute for Excellence in Mental Health/South Southwest Mental Health Technology Transfer Center, The University of Texas at Austin as recognized by the Texas Certification Board: · Mental Health Peer Specialist (MHPS) · Recovery Support Peer Specialist (RSPS) · Re-Entry Peer Specialist (JI-RPS) · Peer Specialist Supervisor (PSS) · Certified Family Partner (CFP)   These entities are recognized as providers of continuing education credits, however, attendees are responsible for checking with their licensing or credentialing board to ensure acceptance of the CEUs issued. If you have questions about CEUs for a credential that you do not see listed here, contact [email protected].     If you would like accommodations to participate in any of our events, please contact us at [email protected] ahead of the event date. For example, if you would like an ASL interpreter, please let us know 3 weeks ahead of the event date so we have sufficient time to secure the services.  

DESCRIPTION   This workshop will introduce participants to the theory and practice of using theater in therapeutic ways to facilitate self-expression, support self-esteem, cultivate supportive communities, and challenge stereotypes among incarcerated and re-entry populations.     During our time together, we will explore the theoretical underpinnings of Drama Therapy, provide concrete examples of Drama Therapy applications with incarcerated and re-entry populations, and engage in several simple and transformative Drama Therapy exercises. Two individuals who have been formerly incarcerated will also share their experiences participating in therapeutic theater programs, both in prison and after returning home.     • • • •   INTENDED AUDIENCE   This training is intended to serve clinical practitioners, including marriage and family therapists, psychologists, psychiatrists, licensed clinical social workers, drug recovery counselors, psychiatric nurses, as well as those in training or internship programs for their respective licenses.   • • • •   LEARNING OUTCOMES   Participants will be able to: Explain why Drama Therapy is an effective intervention for incarcerated and re-entry populations. Articulate two ways in which theater and/or Drama Therapy can support  incarcerated and re-entry populations. Identify one similarity and one difference between “Drama Therapy” and “Theater as Therapy.” Learn and practice two Drama Therapy exercises that can be used in working with incarcerated and re-entry populations and articulate one benefit of each.   • • • •   **1.5 continuing education hours (CEH's) are available through full participation in this workshop.   • • • •   ABOUT THE FACULTY & PANEL SPEAKERS    Suraya Keating, MFT, RDT (she/hers) Suraya Keating, MFT (#43996), REAT, RDT is a bilingual (Spanish-English) Registered Expressive Arts Therapist, Registered Drama Therapist and master trainer in Expressive Arts and Drama Therapy.  Suraya has worked as Shakespeare for Social Justice Director for Marin Shakespeare Company since 2005, and helped expand Marin Shakespeare’s prison programs from a single prison (San Quentin) to 14 California prisons. She also co-founded Marin Shakespeare’s Returned Citizens’ Theater Troupe, a theater program for artists returning home from incarceration. She has worked as an adjunct professor at the California Institute of Integral Studies, John F Kennedy University and Santa Rosa Junior College, and supervised an Expressive Arts Therapy Program at Contra Costa Health Services, where she provided training and supervision to MFT associates in the use of therapeutic arts practices with multiple populations. Suraya loves facilitating Expressive Arts and Drama Therapy processes with individuals and groups in schools, prisons, hospitals, juvenile halls and in private practice, and has heavily focused her work on populations who are marginalized and oppressed. An avid practitioner of Playback Theater as well as a life-story performance coach, Suraya believes in the healing power of sharing and listening to each others’ life stories. She also has extensive experience in somatic practices including 5 Rhythms Dance, Open Floor Dance and Yoga.  www.suraya.org   Tony Cyprien  Photo and bio are forthcoming.    Preston “Zoe” Gardner Photo and bio are forthcoming.

This presentation presents evidence-based interventions as critical in mental health and substance use treatment. Through case scenarios, real-life stories, and discussion, we will work to identify specific barriers to treatment progress and explore strategies and cultural adaptations to address them. Attendees will engage in discussion, review case scenarios, and hear real life scenarios in order to: Review the code of ethics to examine how institutional racism has influenced the implementation of ethics and practical strategies for advancing racial equity within the social work profession. Obtain up-to-date, data-driven, meaningful, real-world applications for implementing culturally specific strategies within evidence-based practices. Consider how the use of evidence-based practices and cultural adaptation impacts client success in meeting goals relating to mental health and recovery. Important Note: A recording of this webinar will NOT be provided. Please only register for this event if you are able to attend live.   LEARNING OBJECTIVES After attending this training, participants will be able to: Discuss the 10 elements of culture and their influence on providing competent care Explain fidelity and cultural adaptation's purpose in behavioral health Determine effective strategies for culturally adapting Evidence-based interventions (EBI) Obtain practical strategies for advancing racial equity through ethical behavior   CONTINUING EDUCATION Participants who fully attend this virtual training will be eligible to receive 4 continuing education (CE) hours certified by NBCC. The hosting agency (WAFCA) will manage the dissemination of CE certificates after the conclusion of the event.   PRESENTER Chardé Hollins, LCSW Chardé Hollins is a licensed clinical social worker with over a decade of experience in healthcare, corrections, education, and grant management. Her remarkable contributions have propelled her to the forefront of the industry, earning her a seat on numerous advisory committees, including the distinguished Ohio Governor's Behavioral Health Workforce Advisory Council the Strategic Prevention Framework for Prescription Drugs in Ohio. As a keynote speaker and presenter for national organizations and state conferences, she captivates audiences with her insights and transformative strategies. Chardé groundbreaking initiatives have paved the way for monumental change, leading to the placement of mental health services in 100% of Ohio's second-largest county and setting a new precedent in school districts. With her invaluable consultation and technical assistance, she ensures proper program implementation and addresses challenges in early childhood mental health, prevention education, school-based services, and suicide prevention. Known for her exceptional ability to build rapport and provide innovative strategies for culturally adapting evidence-based practices, Chardé is sought after in various fields to support organizations in evaluating DEI practices, increasing cultural competence, and promoting mental health. Her transformative work in corrections has resulted in a remarkable increase in client treatment engagement and a significant reduction in violent behavior through the implementation of tailored curriculum and strategic partnerships. With a passion for uplifting minority-owned non-profits, Chardé goes beyond her clinical work to secure funding through grant writing. Under her exceptional leadership, her firm has secured over $4.5 Million in funding, specializing in crafting proposals that elevate the stories and amplify the voices of the people living in the communities they serve. This unique gift not only showcases her unwavering commitment to inclusivity but also strengthens her ability to support others in identifying ways to better support BIPOC communities. Beyond her professional achievements, Chardé is featured in national publications and recognized for her dedication to creating lasting impact and enhancing the continuum of care.     The Great Lakes MHTTC is offering this training for individuals working in HHS Region 5: IL, IN, MI, MN, OH, WI. This training is being provided in response to a need identified by Region 5 stakeholders.

Burnout is a general term that describes the chronic and cumulative effect of different stresses at work and how it negatively impacts the worker’s health and wellbeing. If unaddressed, the various stresses of Human Services work contribute to an erosion of compassion and empathy which reduces a worker’s effectiveness in helping others, rendering the worker ineffective and lacking confidence. This class builds awareness of the signs and stages of Compassion Fatigue and Burnout and offers strategies for cultivating compassion satisfaction for the individual and in team dynamics.   LEARNING OBJECTIVES Recognize warning signs of burnout and compassion fatigue Review of the “why” of caregiver work Assess current potential for compassion satisfaction Introduce strategies for reducing burnout in an individual and team   CONTINUING EDUCATION Registrants who fully attend this training will be eligible to receive 2 continuing education (CE) hours certified by the Minnesota Board of Social Work. CE certificates are provided by People Incorporated Training Institute.   PRESENTER Raymond Young, CPS, BA, has 15 years of experience training diverse groups of adult, youth, and adolescent learners prior to joining the Training Institute at People Incorporated Mental Health Services. He has trained mental health workers, police officers, transportation professionals, business partners, and clients. Ray received his certification as a Certified Peer Specialist from the Minnesota Department of Human Services in 2017 and has since worked with individuals with various mental health conditions and behavioral health concerns. He has also studied Drug and Alcohol Counseling. Ray has a passion for working with youth in Youth Leadership Programs and as a mentor in the community.   This training is provided by our valued partners at the People Incorporated Training Institute.   The Great Lakes MHTTC is offering this training for individuals working in HHS Region 5: IL, IN, MI, MN, OH, WI. This training is being provided in response to a need identified by Region 5 stakeholders.

Regardless of the form of therapy a practitioner may utilize or population worked with, it is likely that most mental health professionals will come into contact with individuals who struggle with an eating disorder or disordered eating. In this training, participants will learn the difference between disordered eating and a diagnosable eating disorder, when to refer out to a specialty provider as well as what to say and what not to say when working with an individual suffering from an eating disorder. Participants will also learn key characteristics of the most common eating disorder diagnoses as well as discussing key treatment objectives for each. A short overview of different treatment approaches for eating disorders will also be provided. A time for Q&A will be facilitated for the last portion of the training.   LEARNING OBJECTIVES Be able to identify the most common eating disorders based on symptoms Know the difference between disordered eating and an eating disorder Be able to create goals and objectives for treatment of an individual with an eating disorder Identify when it is appropriate to continue seeing a client suffering from an eating disorder and when to refer out Have the knowledge of helpful vs unhelpful things to say to someone struggling with food or their body Have knowledge of different popular approaches used in treating eating disorders   CONTINUING EDUCATION Participants who fully attend this training will be eligible to receive 1.5 continuing education (CE) hours certified by Ohio MHAS. CE certificates will be managed by the Ohio Association of County Behavioral Health Authorities (OACBHA).   PRESENTER Danielle Castro, MSW, LISW-S Dani holds a master’s degree in social work from the University of Toledo as well as an LISW-S license (Licensed Independent Social Worker with supervisory designation). She is passionate about treating eating disorders and body image/self-esteem concerns after healing from her own eating disorder. She is trained in FBT (Family Based Treatment) as well as CBT-e (Enhanced Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) both to treat eating disorders. She has worked in the field of eating disorders since 2017 and also treats conditions that frequently co-occur with disordered eating such as anxiety, depression, OCD, perfectionism, self-esteem issues and body image concerns. She is also trained in IBCT (Integrative Behavioral Couples Therapy) and offers couples counseling. Dani utilizes a strengths-based, solution-focused approach to therapy and utilizes a mixture of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy based on the needs of each individual.​ Dani believes that the relationship between therapist and client is an important part of the healing process. She operates from a faith-based approach if this is of interest to each individual. She is currently open for appointments Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays with morning, afternoon, and evening availability. She currently is accepting only self-pay clients and is able to provide a super bill to submit to insurance companies for reimbursement. She can see clients aged 16 and above. ​Outside of being a therapist, Dani enjoys spending time with her husband, baby and dog as well as running, teaching yoga, being outdoors, reading and exploring new coffee shops and restaurants.   The Great Lakes MHTTC is offering this training for individuals working in HHS Region 5: IL, IN, MI, MN, OH, WI. This training is being provided in response to a need identified by Region 5 stakeholders.

Event Description Executive function symptoms are common effects of everyday stress, myriad psychological concerns and, crucially, trauma and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). Yet, Criterion E—that ADHD is a diagnosis of exclusion—is often ignored. How can we adequately assess for ADHD given the pervasiveness of trauma? Best practice considerations will be discussed.     Trainer Melanie Wilcox, PhD, ABPP  Dr. Melanie Wilcox is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychological Sciences, Institute of Public and Preventive Health, and Department of Psychiatry at Augusta University. She is also a licensed psychologist and board certified in counseling psychology and works part-time in private practice providing both therapy and assessment via telehealth. Her clinical areas of expertise include culturally responsive and trauma-informed care as well as substance abuse and addiction. Her research focuses on culturally response and antiracist psychotherapy and training, racial and socioeconomic inequity in higher education, and racial and social justice more broadly. She is in her final year as a member of the American Psychological Association’s Board of Educational Affairs, which she chaired in 2020, and is currently President Elect-Elect of APA Division 17, the Society of Counseling Psychology. 

  This is session 6 of the Mindful Monday series, running from March 11 to May 20. Event Description We are excited to announce that Christina Ruggiero, RP, is returning to lead our first Mindful Monday series, Mindful Monday – Experiential Mental Health Practice, for Spring 2024. Join us as we continue to explore and experience different mindfulness practices related to the topics of creativity, rest, and self-care. This series is for anyone who desires to improve their overall well-being, resilience, and mental health.  The practices that are presented in the training are designed for quick and effective implementation both personally and professionally.  For mental and behavioral health practitioners these techniques can be easily incorporate into their practice.  Mindfulness practices are varied and can last anywhere from a couple of minutes to an hour or more. Vishen Lakhiani, Meditation Expert and CEO of Mindvalley, states “You can take a one- to three-minute dip into peacefulness, and you can see remarkable results. The biggest benefits are going to happen in the first few minutes.” Attendees who have participated in past Mindful Monday series have the following to say about the training: “Incredibly validating experience”, “Love doing this- can we do it indefinitely”, “Thank you for this training. It is hard to recognize we also deserve to be heard, have needs/wants and slow down and breathe for a while.” This is a 30-minute interactive training that begins on March 11th and will run every other week through May 20th, 2024.  Each training will feature exercises from different mindfulness disciplines. At the beginning of each session, participants will spend a few minutes grounding and learning about the practice for that day and then spend approximately 15-20 minutes in experiential practice, leaving a few minutes at the end for reflection and discussion. Trainer Christina Ruggiero Master’s Counselling Psychology  Registered Psychotherapist

Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Psychosis (CBT-P) is an evidence-based approach to support recovery for individuals experiencing psychosis. Case conceptualization can guide CBT-P individual treatment and team-based treatment in a multidisciplinary setting, such as a First Episode Psychosis (FEP) team. In these monthly case-based learning calls, First Episode Psychosis (FEP) Team Leads and Therapists in MHTTC Region 6 will practice using case conceptualization models for young people on their FEP teams. Each month, up to two providers will have the opportunity to present their case conceptualization and receive feedback from the group. Providers will be asked to submit their case conceptualization one week in advance of the call. Samantha Reznik, PhD, will facilitate the calls. Although the calls will practice using a CBT-P case conceptualization, other modalities may be integrated as clinically indicated by the conceptualization and an emphasis will be placed on shared decision-making and recovery-oriented approaches. Participants should expect to learn basic theory of CBT-P case conceptualization rather than to be competent in provision of full CBT-P. Further CBT-P training options will be discussed during the series.   Interested parties should register by completing this form by December 18, 2023 and expect to share at least one case conceptualization within the six-month series as well as having some materials to review in January. Applications will be reviewed and all applicants will be notified of the status of their selection by January 5, 2024. Accepted participants are expected to share at least one case conceptualization within the six-month series and will have some pre-work materials to review in January.   Facilitator Samantha Reznik is the current research postdoctoral fellow with the Advancing the Early Psychosis Intervention Network in Texas (EPINET-TX) project at the Texas Institute for Excellence in Mental Health (TIEMH), University of Texas at Austin. She has specialized in providing recovery-oriented services to individuals diagnosed with serious mental illness (SMI) and other underserved populations. She completed her PhD in Clinical Psychology at the University of Arizona. She trained in Coordinated Specialty Care (CSC) and Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Psychosis (CBT-P) at the Early Psychosis Intervention Center (EPICenter) in Tucson, Arizona. She completed an advanced clinical fellowship in rehabilitation and recovery for SMI at VA San Diego Healthcare System/University of California San Diego (VASDHS/UCSD), where she expanded her training in CBT-P and learned how to integrate Recovery-Oriented Cognitive Therapy (CT-R). She also completed a Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)-funded clinical internship at University of Kansas Medical Center to specialize in working with underserved populations.     Positionality statement:   I have been passionate about CBT-P since I saw how it can be used to effectively partner with young people in service of recovery. One important area of non-expertise in my use of CBT-P is that I do not have lived experience of psychosis or participating in CBT-P. Having a positionality as only provider rather than receiver of services, I am mindful that lived experiences may or may not align with the evidence base of CBT-P. I work to honor each individual’s lived experience of participating in CBT-P by sharing and collaboratively building any case conceptualizations and partnering in setting goals and techniques. I apply CBT-P flexibly and use CBT-P case conceptualization to guide therapy, which often incorporates strategies from other modalities.

ABOUT THIS EVENT It’s estimated that 50 million adults in the United States have chronic daily pain and approximately 19.6 million of those adults are experiencing high impact chronic pain that interferes with daily life or work activities. Nation-wide the cost of chronic pain is estimated to be between $560-635 billion annually and our nation is facing an opioid crisis that, over the past two decades, has resulted in an unprecedented wave of overdose deaths associated with prescription opioids, heroin, and synthetic opioids. Multidisciplinary and biopsychosocial pain management has long been the gold standard for the treatment of care, yet most allied behavioral health professionals are not trained in evidence-based interventions for chronic pain. This 90-minute workshop will utilize the shared knowledge of the University of Washington Center for Pain Relief’s multidisciplinary team to provide education and training on evidence-based interventions to support those in chronic pain. FACILITATORS Kaitlin Touza, PhD Kaitlin Touza is a pain psychologist and acting assistant professor at the University of Washington’s Center for Pain Relief. She provides evidence-based individual and group intervention, including CBT, ACT, EAET, and PRT.  She also provides consultation to a broad population in the Pacific Northwest region and Alaska through UW’s TelePain program. Kaitlin is fellowship trained at Stanford in clinical pain psychology and is committed to multidisciplinary care and education in pain management. She is passionate about educational outreach and program development for patients, family members, and healthcare providers, with the goal of improving access to specialized multidisciplinary pain management in rural and underserved populations. She believes in a patient-centered, evidence-based, and biopsychosocial approach to intervention, program development, and assessment.   Bethany Pester, PhD Bethany Pester is a pain psychologist and acting assistant professor at the University of Washington’s Center for Pain Relief. Her patient-centered approach incorporates evidence-based psychological treatments for chronic pain, such as CBT, ACT, EAET, and PRT, while partnering with each patient to understand their unique needs and tailor treatment accordingly. Bethany has collaborated with research teams at UW/Seattle Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical System, Medical University of South Carolina, and academic medical centers across Michigan to study biopsychosocial approaches to understand, treat, and prevent acute and chronic pain. She is passionate about advancing research to better understand these complex conditions and translate discoveries into effective personalized treatments for children, adolescents, and adults.   Eric Wanzel, MSW, LICSW Eric Wanzel is a masters-level therapist at the University of Washington’s Center for Pain Relief.  Eric has a special interest in the intersections between chronic pain and PTSD and provides evidence-based interventions to this population including CBT, ACT, PRT, CPT, PE, and WET.  He received his foundational training at the State University of New York and specialized training with the Neuro Orthopaedic Institute Australasia (i.e. noigroup) in pain neuroscience education and graded motor imagery.  Eric strives to provide whole person and multidisciplinary healthcare to underserved populations in addition to educational outreach and training for healthcare providers.   Elisabeth Powelson, MD, MSc Elisabeth Powelson is trained in anesthesia and pain medicine and treats patients at the University of Washington’s Center for Pain Relief and Harborview Medical Center. Additionally, she is an acting assistant professor in Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine and a T32 Research Fellow at the Pediatric and Sleep Innovations Lab.  She has a special interest in post-traumatic pain, PTSD, and pain in older adults. She believes that pain treatment requires a comprehensive multimodal approach and focuses on a partnership with her patients to improve their overall wellness and improve their quality of life. 

The Region 6 Peer Support Advisory Committee (PSAC) to the South Southwest MHTTC meets on a monthly basis to collaborate across the states and tribal communities to identify and address common areas of need and share resources. Based on feedback from the PSAC, and needs identified by peers across Region 6, the MHTTC organizes training and technical assistance focused on peer retention and workforce development. This is a closed meeting.

Join us to learn about person-centered, family-driven partnerships to support the recovery journey for individuals with mental health and/or substance use challenges and their families—the focus of a new, free, online course module Partnering with Families in Behavioral Health, developed by the National Family Support Technical Assistance Center and the Center for Psychiatric Rehabilitation at Boston University. The course's focus is to present an approach that teaches the behavioral health workforce how to partner with families.   The 6 lessons present strategies to put evidence-based partnership principles into action using the “FAMILY” approach: Facing Personal and Professional Attitudes; Acknowledging Family Identities and Expertise; Making Meaningful Partnerships; Identifying Solutions to Conflict; “Letting Go” to Support; and Yielding to Outside Resources.   The presentation will provide opportunities for participants to engage in reflection exercises, as well as opportunities to ask questions of the course developers, so that they can increase their understanding of the strategies involved in family partnerships.   Presenters: Gail Cormier, MS, brings over 25 years of experience providing national and statewide technical assistance and expertise working with families, youth, and young adults. She is a proven national family leader with both professional and family-lived experience. Cormier’s knowledge is demonstrated by her work at several levels. At the national level, she partners in the development of federal programs that serve at-risk and vulnerable individuals, families, and their children-of-any age. Dana Asby, MA, MEd, is a developmental and educational psychology researcher and author, as well as a mental health and transformational leadership educator. She has a passion for helping all members of the family use their strengths to find person-centered solutions to challenges. Dana applies her lived experience as a family member to those with mental health challenges, her own recovery from traumatic experiences, and a decade as a teacher in preschool to junior high school classrooms to her current work in behavioral health.   If you would like accommodations to participate in any of our events, please contact us at [email protected] ahead of the event date. For example, if you would like an ASL interpreter, please let us know 3 weeks ahead of the event date so we have sufficient time to secure the services.  

Reasonable accommodations and modifications for tenants with mental or behavioral health conditions is the focus of this 90-minute webinar. ABOUT THIS EVENT Housing isn't "one size fits all," and tenants with mental or behavioral health conditions might need adjustments to their housing so they, too, can have a stable, healthy home. Reasonable accommodations and modifications can help tenants make these necessary adjustments to their rental so their house can become a home. During this presentation, attorneys will review what reasonable accommodations and modifications are, how to talk to landlords about them, and provide tips on handling difficult cases. The Northwest MHTTC is proud to offer this webinar in partnership with the Tenant Law Center. FACILITATORS Elizabeth Powell, Staff Attorney Elizabeth Powell has been actively practicing law since she was admitted to the Washington Bar in 2000. She volunteered for the King County Housing Justice Project for years and took the knowledge she gained representing tenants facing evictions into her private practice, where she litigated well over a thousand cases in the last 23 years. She was solo counsel on Thoreson Homes v Prudhon, a Div I published decision which reversed the trial court. She has presented at CLE’s geared towards landlord-tenant litigation and has assisted with litigation and/or settlement of housing cases all over the state. She has handled grievance hearings with PCHA, THA, SHA, and KCHA. She has litigated matters involving the WSLAD, the ADA and service animals, and reasonable accommodation.   Kasey Burton, Senior Staff Attorney Kasey Burton is a Senior Staff Attorney at the Tenant Law Center, which provides eviction prevention and tenant advocacy services to King County. Kasey has spent several years practicing landlord-tenant law as both a right-to-counsel attorney for tenants facing eviction and providing eviction prevention assistance, which has allowed her to pursue her passion for housing justice.  Kasey attended the University of Washington for both her Bachelor’s in Political Science, with a minor in Law, Societies, and Justice, and her Juris Doctorate. She is currently working on her Master’s in Public Administration at the University of Colorado Denver and hopes to use this degree to facilitate her engagement in policy change that provides Washington citizens who are tenants or unhoused with the protections they deserve.

Event Description This online webinar offers a focused exploration into implementing Focused Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (FACT) within settings necessitating brief, effective interventions (e.g., Integrated Behavioral Health positions). This 60-minute session, split between didactic learning and hands-on practice, is designed for clinicians seeking effective, short-term therapeutic strategies that encourage long-term patient engagement. Learn the fundamentals of FACT, its application in IBH or similar settings for addressing a wide range of issues quickly and effectively, and techniques to boost patient retention and follow-up. Ideal for mental health professionals in fast-paced settings, this webinar will equip you with the skills to make a lasting impact in brief clinical encounters.    This training is in response to questions we received from participants at our April training,  Rural Resilience:  Bridging Mental Health Support for Men in the Heartland  Trainer Andrew Jordan Thayer, PhD, LP