Listen
The 2024 Mental Health KC Conference will take place on May 23-24, 2024, at Johnson County Community College in Overland Park, KS.
One in five people in the U.S. struggle with their mental health each year. Breaking the stigma surrounding mental illness is a critical public health issue.
In recognition of May as National Mental Health Awareness Month, the Metropolitan Council of Community Behavioral Health Centers (“Metro Council”) organizes the annual Mental Health KC Conference.
The conference focuses on bringing mental health awareness and education to anyone in the Kansas City area interested in breaking the stigma of mental health and working toward real change. In addition to community health, mental health, and social service workers, the conference provides vital information to business and human resources leaders and the general public.
The conference will include well-known keynote speakers and local and regional subject-matter experts who will offer engaging presentations about a variety of subjects focused on behavioral health and well-being. The program will include:
To keep this conference accessible to all, the cost for the conference is $50.
For questions about the conference, please contact info@mentalhealthkc.org.
May 23, 2024
Day 1: 9am-4:30pm
8:00-9:00 Check-in
9:00-9:15 Welcome/intros with Tom Petrizzo
9:15-10:30 Keynote
10:30-10:45 Break/vendor extravaganza
10:45-12:00 75 minute breakouts
12:00-12:45 Lunch
12:45-1:45 60 Minute breakouts
1:45-2:00 Break
2:00-3:15 75 minute breakouts
3:15-3:30 Break
3:30-4:30 60 minute breakouts
May 24, 2024
Day 2: 9:00am-12pm
8:30-9:00 Check-in
9:00-9:45 Welcome/keynote
9:45-10:00 Break
10:00-10:45 45 min breakouts
10:45-11:00 Break
11:00-12:00 60 min breakouts
The Mental Health KC Conference will provide 8.25 contact hours for the 1.5 day conference
The mental health of pregnant and parenting persons is essential, not only for their own well-being but also for the entire family system. Panel participants will discuss the topic from several perspectives, including psychiatry, therapy services, and lived experience.
Rev. Roxanne Pendleton, MDiv, CYT200
Senior Behavioral Health Consultant, Center for Trauma Informed Innovation, University Health
Eriko Her, LPC
Inderjeet Kaur MD, ABPN, PMH-C
Kim Hawley,
President of Whole Parent Foundation, LMSW
Moderator: Jennifer Craig
President/CEO, ReDiscover
Corey Keyes' new book Languishing explores a state of mental exhaustion that impacts self-esteem and motivation. It’s not simply depression, it’s about a loss of self-meaning, struggling to feel in control, or feeling uncertain about life. Without help, this can spiral into a mental health crisis. Keyes’ is a leader in the field of positive psychology and known for coining the psychological terms “flourishing” and “languishing.” He has worked for the Center for Disease Control and is a member of the Positive Psychology Network.
Corey Keyes
Families, litigants, lawyers, and practitioners entangled in complex family law cases are juggling many stressors. The inability to effectively resolve conflict is indicative of a constant state of the players being in a constant state of fight-flight-freeze; no one feels safe. Recognizing the role of the autonomic nervous system, provides a path to helping parties self-regulate and leads to innovative path forward and to improve communication and decision making. The mental health professional will learn to apply concepts in neuroscience to create informed treatment strategies.
Traditional therapy and court involved therapy are not the same. A therapist who is untrained in the intricacies of court involved work can unintentionally cause harm and contribute to further polarization. The mental health professional will understand the differences between traditional and court involved therapy and evaluate best practices in dealing with court involved cases.
Parents who have experienced the conflict of divorce are often unable to articulate or identify their surrounding emotions. A focus on verbal communication in working with this population can often decrease feelings of safety and increase resistance. Providing an environment of safety can foster connection and attunement lending to connecting with previously unprocessed emotions and a path forward for these families. The mental health professional will learn innovative strategies to promote safety, connection and attunement while working with co-parents.
Trina Nudson
Amy Hyken
Suicide is the third leading cause of death for ages 10-19 and the second leading cause of death for ages 20-34. 90% of those who died by suicide had a diagnosable mental health condition at the time of their death and 94% of adults surveyed in the U.S. think that suicide can be prevented. More people are talking about mental health but deaths by suicide increased 2.6% from 2021-2022. We aim to expose the raw truth of what someone living with suicidal thoughts experiences when it comes to their healthcare and how we can change things to bring about better outcomes for those who are vulnerable. This will be done by sharing lived experience from the perspective of the caregiver, the patient, and the patient’s psychiatrist. The patient was a 14 year old boy, Pierson Phillips, who spoke publicly about his mental illness and suicidal thoughts, so his thoughts and words will be used periodically throughout the presentation via video. Hilaire Phillips and Dr. Batterson will invite discussion and questions at specific times during the presentation and will offer their proposal at the end of the presentation on what they believe will help provide better outcomes for patients.
Hilaire Phillips
Bob Batterson
Perfectionism: what seems a strength can actually have devastating consequences on one’s quality of life. As a recovering perfectionist I lived many shame filled years of not meeting the marks I set for myself in relationships, school, work, my appearance and the environment around me. I thought if I just tried harder, was a little more perfect, then I would be good enough. Then I would be happy. My perfectionism was compounded by anxiety, depression and an eating disorder.
As a clinician I have seen how perfection impacts many wonderful individuals who have so much going for them. Often perfectionism and anxiety go hand in hand. As a recovered perfectionist I enjoy giving clients hope that they do not have to continue to live under the prison walls they feel trapped in. The first step is understanding if you are a perfectionist, and if so, how does it manifest in your life? We will also learn how perfectionism is impacting your quality of life. We cannot change what we do not acknowledge.
Whether you are a clinician or not, this talk will help you identity perfectionism and how you can shift to living in excellence, living with self-compassion and recognizing the beauty of mistakes.
Kori Hintz-Bohn
Neverbefore have we had so much insight into how our anatomy and neurobiology shape our minds and lives. Using cutting edge research and brain mapping, Cindy will help you discover how you can take control of your mind, thoughts, and behaviors. By appyling this fundamental information and and strategies to your own life and mind, you can help guide your clients toward balance and regulation.
Cindy Lamb
When it comes to overcoming anxiety and depression, it’s a simple matter of “mind over matter,” right? Or maybe it’s all solvable simply through taking a pill? Well what if it’s something else? Something that every human being possesses innately – at our core. Something that is exquisitely designed and suited to handle almost every human ill and difficulty that we humans experience.
Somatic therapies (such as SE, or Somatic Experiencing) are based on this premise: unresolved and incomplete survival responses (what we commonly call “fight, flight or freeze”) lie at the heart of nearly every maladaptive behavior. And there is a way to resolve and complete these.
The “somatic lens” is rooted in the polyvagal theory of the human autonomic nervous system (ANS). Today we will delve into the three operational principles of polyvagal theory that guide the ANS. Additionally, we will explore the insightful work of Johann Hari (Lost Connections) and the seven antidotes to the modern human plagues of anxiety and depression.
Jim LeCluyse
“Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” was the law of the land for far too long and still remains the status quo for many organizations who serve the LGBTQIA+ community. By not asking about a client’s gender identity and sexual orientation, clients are unintentionally sent the message that these are taboo conversations and are left unsure how and/or if their identity will impact the services they receive. By not asking, these aspects of their personhood are made invisible thus leaving room for assumptions to be made and inadequate services to be provided. Conversely, providing clients with opportunities to share information about their sexual orientation and gender identity in a welcoming environment facilitates important conversations with providers who are in a position to significantly promote these clients’ optimal health and wellbeing. This training outlines the imperative of collecting this data, how to appropriately ask clients about their identity, and what to do with this data to produce meaningful performance and quality improvement.
Jess Harman
Consider the equation Wellbeing + Productivity = Flourishing. But what if we did not feel productive, does a sense of wellbeing alone mean we flourish? Or if we only focus on our productivity, does that imply we are flourishing? What if we took the approach to move from functioning to flourishing by being empowered stewards of our own wellbeing. This session delves into the intricate relationship between wellbeing and our own productivity, unveiling the significant impact strategies such as resilience and self-care have on our ability and opportunity to flourish. By understanding the interconnectedness of how individuals, teams, and workplaces may flourish, we unlock the critical role of well-being, resilience, and other strategies to create inherently more productive work and life experiences for all. Attendees will explore the transformative journey toward cultivating individual and workplace resilience and flourishing for unparalleled employee well-being. When employees flourish, business will flourish.
Haley Prophet
"Your Trauma Is Talking: Examining Stress Responses and Communication in Relationships” is an exploration of the intricate relationship between trauma, stress responses, and communication dynamics within interpersonal connections. This topic delves into the nuanced ways in which personal and relational trauma shape individuals’ reactions to stress and, consequently, influence the way they communicate in relationships. Trauma has a profound impact on stress responses, manifesting in diverse and sometimes unexpected ways. Understanding these responses is crucial for learning to respond, rather than react, in personal and relational contexts.
Tamicka Monson
The ZenTangle Method of Drawing was created by Rick Roberts & Maria Thomas in 2004. This artform is meditative and mindful, focusing on the process of creation, as opposed to the final product. Zentangle is an easy-to-learn, relaxing, and fun way to create beautiful images by drawing structured patterns. These patterns, the so-called "tangles", are created using combinations of dots, lines, and simple curves. While creating their ZenTangles, participants may experience increased focus, creativity, self-confidence, or an increased sense of well-being. Once familiar with the ZenTangle steps, participants will be able to guide others in learning the method.
Tara Hanna
Within our organizations and across healthcare systems, change is happening at a dizzying rate. Dealing with the fallout of the pandemic changes in healthcare, shifting public perceptions and interactions with healthcare workers and medical science, worldwide turmoil, economic and social unrest leading frequently to personal instability, and the rapid and expansive changes happening in the way we provide care with the rise of telehealth and AI, the requirement for constant change is a daily reality within our organizations. This reality can all too easily lead to change fatigue, pushing our already over-extended workforce over the edge, increasing attrition, and limiting service provision.
Annie Thomas-Landrum
The rates of suicide and non-suicidal self-injury are on the rise in youth, but many still struggle to understand what it is, why people do it, and how to help. Education and training on NSSI and appropriate treatments have traditionally been inadequate or absent from many programs. Due to their limited training, providers can often feel ill-prepared to understand and adequately treat clients suffering from NSSI. Identifying alternatives to self-harm and appropriate treatments is critical for clients’ physical and mental health and well-being. Participants in this session will learn to identify the risk factors and warning signs of non-suicidal self-injury, learn the facts to dispel myths and misconceptions, and learn the differences between non-suicidal self-injuring and suicidality.
Cristin Martinez
Amy Hill
The creative arts as a healing modality goes back to ancient cultures. Join this panel in unpacking the science behind the arts in mental health.
Xavier Fleming MA, MT-BC
Music therapist
Jackie Gonzalez, MS, R-DMT
Dance/ movement therapist
Emily Bartlett RDT, TTT
Drama therapist
Jordan Graves LCPC, LMAC
Art therapist-in-training, coordinator of therapeutic arts program
Anne Palmer, DMA
Audience development at ArtsKC and coordinator of NeuroArts Blueprint work
Moderator: Andrea Dalton
Director, Center for Trauma Informed Innovation, University Health
This workshop will give background information and give practical tools to those supporting the healthy development of children from military and veteran caregiving homes. There are 2.3 million children living in veteran caregiving homes. When our service members who have sustained an injury or developed an illness because of their military service need care from the primary adult in the household this can become disruptive to any children living in the home. These children consequently take on additional responsibilities – ranging from household chores to caregiving responsibilities for their injured or ill service member or veteran and responsibilities for siblings who would otherwise have been cared for by the adults in the home.
In the end, children in these homes can get lost in their family’s response to the need of the care recipient. It has been found that these children have an increased rate of child behavioral problems, violence, or hostility. They can become socially withdrawn, nervous, or fearful and have more health problems such as stress, burnout, and fatigue.
In this workshop, we will examine the research that has shown ways in which mental health professionals, school personnel, and our community can best support healthy outcomes for these children. We will explore culturally competent care and what that means for the veteran family. Our learning outcomes will include solutions directly from these children living in veteran caregiving homes.
Shawn Moore
Natasha Swayze
The presentation ""Empowering Mental Health Among Black & Brown Trans Women: Perspectives & Strategies for QTBIPOC Communities"" is a comprehensive exploration of the unique mental and behavioral health challenges faced by transgender women of color. Presented by Nyla Foster from the Trans Women of Color Collective (TWOCC), this session delves into the intersectional experiences of Black and Brown trans women, highlighting the systemic barriers and societal stigmas that often impede their access to adequate mental health care.
The discussion will commence with an overview of the current mental health landscape as it pertains to Black and Brown trans women. We'll examine statistical data that sheds light on the higher rates of depression, anxiety, and PTSD within this community, often exacerbated by experiences of racism, transphobia, and socio-economic challenges.
Following this, the session will explore effective strategies and best practices for supporting the mental well-being of QTBIPOC individuals. Emphasis will be placed on culturally competent care, the importance of community support networks, and advocacy for inclusive health policies. Real-life case studies and testimonials from Black and Brown trans women will be presented to provide attendees with a deeper, more personal understanding of the issues at hand.
Furthermore, the presentation will offer insights into how healthcare providers, mental health professionals, and community allies can become effective advocates for this marginalized group. By promoting understanding, empathy, and proactive support, we aim to foster an environment where Black and Brown trans women can thrive mentally and emotionally.
In conclusion, this session is not just an educational discourse but a call to action to empower and uplift one of the most vulnerable segments of our society.
Nyla Foster
There is no better time to reflect on the health and well-being of healthcare providers than now. In today's healthcare climate of increased workloads, higher productivity demands, complex patient problems, and ever changing technology, those who wish to care for patients, clients, or consumers must first care for themselves. Healthcare providers are at risk for communication errors, burnout, and an eroded sense of purpose and engagement in our work. We solve the compassion deficit by establishing a mental practice of self-compassion while opening to the suffering of others. This workshop is based on the science of self-compassion (Lown, 2016; Neff, 2012; Singer & Steinbeis, 2009). Human beings are hardwired to understand the pain and suffering of others. Self-compassion goes beyond self-care, which generally occurs outside of our work environments. Although this workshop is geared toward individual growth, it is only logical to want to extend compassion to the workplace, and our communities. This workshop will include foundational evidence-based content, experiential activities, reflective discussions, and group work allowing for processing of personal learning. Experiential activities will add to the overall learning when participants begin to establish a mental practice that activates the parts of the brain responsible for positive affect. When we cultivate compassion in ourselves, the benefit is we generate compassion toward others by embracing our shared humanity.
Janis Davis
Local public health agencies (LPHAs) are tasked with developing and implementing Community Health Improvement Plans (CHIPs). However, LPHAs often miss the opportunity to engage community partners in at a system level, resulting in solutions that don't address root causes. Jackson County Public Health (JCPH) is addressing this by fostering co-design and co-implementation of their unconventional CHIP process, centering systems thinking and involving community voice and stakeholder perspectives at every stage. InCoLab (Innovation + Community + Lab), initiated by JCPH, collaborates with regional leaders to embed these community perspectives in guiding CHIP's systems practice efforts. InCoLab has two priority areas of housing & economic stability (HES), and mental & behavioral health (MBH) as impactful social determinants of heath. As a part of this lab, members engage in collaborative and in-depth analysis of mental and behavioral practices and structures in EJC. Some of the key themes that have emerged from this analysis are: barriers to MBH, unmet basic needs, inadequate investment in mental health and the lasting impacts of oppressive policies and practices. Over the next 6-12 months, the labs are strategically focusing on identifying leverage points in a system map and developing a plan for the launch of community-based interventions. The ultimate objective is to create a trauma-aware community where individuals with mental and behavioral health experiences belong and can pursue their purpose, with access to equitable, affordable, and timely mental and behavioral services.
Adelaide Elam
Kelsey Saragnese
Anna VanBrunt
This presentation delves into the intricate realm of trauma, offering a closer examination of its multifaceted aspects.
The exploration begins with an insightful definition of trauma, encompassing both its psychological and physiological dimensions. By dissecting trauma into its fundamental components, we aim to provide a clear understanding of its origins and manifestations. The presentation then transitions into an examination of the diverse types of traumas. By categorizing these types, we aim to highlight the varied experiences individuals may undergo.
Building upon this foundation, the presentation explores the intricate effects of trauma on individuals, systems, and the brain. This includes discussions on the potential development of mental health disorders, coping mechanisms, and the impact on interpersonal relationships.
Finally, the presentation turns towards a hopeful perspective by delving into effective approaches for healing from trauma. By incorporating both traditional and contemporary methodologies, the aim is to equip individuals, professionals, and communities with tools for recovery. This section will touch upon therapeutic interventions, support networks, self-care practices, and resilience-building strategies.
Through this comprehensive exploration, the presentation strives to foster awareness, empathy, and a nuanced understanding of trauma. By acknowledging its complexity, we aspire to contribute to a collective effort in creating a supportive environment for those affected and promoting a path towards healing and resilience.
Kelsie Carlton
Geni Harms
Traumatic events are unfortunately common in youth, with approximately 46-62% of children under the age of 17 reporting at least one traumatic experience. Children with an intellectual or developmental disability (IDD) are four times more likely to be the victim of family violence and are at greater risk for sexual assault than their peers. While approximately 16% of youth will develop posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as few as 10% of children achieve resiliency following an adverse or traumatic event. Exposure to traumatic and stressful events can impact a child’s physical and mental health as well as the overall well-being of families and providers of primary care. Providers in primary care, such as pediatricians, can serve as a key entry point for children and adolescents exposed to potentially traumatic events, especially when parents support screening and view the pediatrician as a trusted individual. Early identification of exposure to traumatic events and trauma-related symptoms can facilitate access to mental and behavioral health services as well as reduce risk for negative health outcomes. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends routine screening for trauma exposure to better support positive child development and promote wellbeing. This presentation will discuss trauma-informed care, the use of trauma assessments in primary care, and strategies to implement screening and overcome possible barriers. Intended for non-clinicians and mental health clinicians.
Allison Morton
Hannah West
Erika Franta
Hanna Grandgenett
Community Services League used traditional social service tools and case management for 100 years. In 2015, we began the slow build moving from transaction to transformation. Using a trauma informed community development approach, CSL now looks at poverty as not simply an individual issue but a community situation we must all come together around. See, traditional social services would say, “I’ll give you a food box, help you get a job … see you next month.” That mindset is part of the problem. Poverty is a community issue and we must address the root. As our understanding expanded, CSL adopted new vision and mission statements, core values, and a strategic plan to go deeper with our work. Today, we still give out food boxes, but it’s HOW we go about our business that has changed.
Our innovative programs require us to believe two key trauma informed principles: do no harm and nothing about me without me. As we build deep partnerships with those of lived experience, we address systems that keep people marginalized. We build trustworthy, safe relationships with community partners and neighbors to design programs that align with transformation. CSL staff will be transparent in sharing how we internalize the core values we work by. We had to really ask ourselves, “Do I believe that every person that walks in our door is the expert in their own lives?” We must consider the trauma of poverty and oppression in poverty reduction work.
Jennifer Manuleleua
Brianna Powers
Reclamation Clubhouse follows the clubhouse model along with over 320 clubhouses worldwide. Clubhouse members are coequal colleagues with staff who help one another solve problems and work on goals such as wellness, education, and employment. Clubhouse International provides 37 clubhouse standards to meet for a clubhouse to become accredited. In this workshop you will learn how to connect with other clubhouses in your area or start your own clubhouse.
Josh Lyman
Judie Howell
Emily Lamar
As folks who care about mental health, we know how cathartic it can be when we express our deepest emotions and feel validated. We often aim to create brave spaces where our people feel comfortable being themselves. However, the vulnerability necessary to foster that experience doesn't always make it into the spaces we lead. If we want people to be open and vulnerable with us, we must lead by example. We must create an atmosphere that welcomes vulnerability from everyone, including ourselves.
Join Kelsey Bigelow, MASC, poet, speaker, and educator, to explore three keys to building brave spaces. The keys live in the way your people are introduced to you, the way you respond to the things they share with you, and the way you showcase your own vulnerability. This session will provide attendees with a real-time assessment and discussion of choices a leader makes to understand why they were or were not effective in fostering the brave space. Attendees will evaluate and discuss their own comfort with vulnerability and how they show up in spaces they lead. This session will also guide attendees through a discussion around how we respond to others' vulnerability and the impact we can leave.
By the end of this session, attendees will be able to identify your comfort level with vulnerability, recognize we can be both professional and human, and implement practical tips for building brave spaces.
Kelsey Bigelow
Our current approach to mental health is inadequate. With anxiety, depression, and burn out at all-time highs, conventional solutions fall short. Based on antiquated ideas and an overemphasis on individual interventions, it is time to rethink mental health.
Challenging misperceptions, outdated beliefs, and stigmas, this thought-provoking and inspiring keynote is a call to action for providers and non-providers alike.
We explore the prevailing model of mental health and the conceptualizations upon which it is built, setting the stage for a paradigm shift. Rather than the historical perspective that mental health care is about reducing symptoms and restoring to baseline, (primarily applicable only to diagnosable mental illnesses), we must continue conversations that illustrate the universal relevance of mental health for every single human.
Then, we highlight the flaws in our current system and call out ways to expand our current approaches to make them more robust and effective. We explore a three dimensional approach to fostering mental health, one that centers on multifaceted interventions across nested levels of functioning (essentially combining the biopsychosocial model of mental health with preventative models of care). We discuss how lifestyles and social environments must be a more integral part of the solution in order to support traditional individual interventions like therapy and medication, and we investigate innovative ways to expand the reach of those traditional options. Finally, we share a vision of a future in which mental health IS health.
Ashley Smith
In this training you will see how harm reduction can benefit your community and how you can apply harm reduction interventions and strategies to reduce risks and harm to the community. This training will share what harm reduction is, as well as what harm reduction isn’t. Attendees will have an opportunity to learn the principles of harm reduction and see how they can integrate harm reduction interventions into their daily life.
David Stoecker
Following up from last year's panel discussing the initiation of 988, this panel will share how the roll-out of 988 has gone, lessons learned, and what is to come.
Heather Mason, LCSW, LSCSW
ReDiscover
Rob MacDougall, LMSW
Director of Emergency Services, Johnson County Mental Health Center (JCMHC)
Laurie Cox, LCSW, LSCSW
Swope
Michelle Rogers, MA, LPC
UHBH
Colene Medrano
Executive Director of RSI, Wyandot BHN Crisis Stabilization Center
Sherrie Stafford, MS, LPC
Comprehensive/Burrell
Kristin Feeback
CommCare
Moderator: Susan Lewis
Mental Health America of the Heartland
Angela Duckworth's research shows that hope separates the gritty from those who give up. The hope she espouses rests on the expectation that our own efforts can improve our future (self-efficacy). “I have a feeling tomorrow will be better” is different from “I resolve to make tomorrow better.” The uncertainty of the world, including the environmental impacts of the Covid pandemic, the developmentally appropriate existentialism of adolescence, much less actual mental health challenges can interfere with hope development. For example, Existentialism is the searching for understanding, meaning and purpose in life. In adolescents, this can sound like, “what’s the point,” “why bother,” or “why am I even alive.” In extreme cases, this questioning can become a “crisis” If the crisis is not handled appropriately, an individual becomes depressed or anxious or triggers other mental health concerns. Therefore, hopelessness can come from and/or exacerbate depression / anxiety / any mental health struggle and consistently leads to suicidal ideation and attempts. When an adolescent has no more “hope” that the pain they are in will end or that they can see no other way to help themselves suicide seems like a reasonable answer. Utilizing the DNA-V model (ACT for adolescents) this presentation/workshop will attempt to frame, explain and train attendees in practical, concrete tools around Sparks (from Peter Benson of the Search Institute) of Wonder to ignite adolescent curiosity and hope shown to have a wide range of positive outcomes in teens. Useful to all.
Jason Bohn
Good psychotherapy takes too long. How can I be effective more quickly? "90 Day Dive" is a new 12-week psychotherapy program that offers individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder a supportive environment to treat their mental illness. Through a powerful combination of evidence-based therapy techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Mindfulness, participants are empowered to reflect on their experiences related to parental emotional negligence and the development of C-PTSD. With two hours of weekly group psychotherapy, daily reading, and peer support, the program is designed to help individuals overcome personal barriers and achieve relief from mental suffering more quickly than standard individual psychotherapy. Treatment only works if it works; the “90 Day Dive” program demonstrates that using data analytics is essential to establishing the validity of a new treatment model and ensuring statistically significant improvement of symptoms.
Katherine (Kate) Jackson
Jordyn Kelso
The transgender and gender nonconforming community faces numerous barriers. Structural, interpersonal, and individual stigmas against this community have led to health disparities, many of which are particularly relevant to the psychiatric community. Rates of most mental health diagnoses are much higher in the transgender community than in the general population, including mood disorders, psychotic disorders, and substance use disorders, giving psychiatric clinicians ample opportunity to intervene for the good of our patients. Provider discrimination, historical stigma from the psychiatric community, and previous poor experiences from medical providers lead to continued hesitancy to best help this population. In this presentation, we explore literature surrounding this topic, understand current views from the American Psychiatric Association on the transgender community, and evaluate ways that we can help this community. We define appropriate vocabulary, explore hormone replacement therapy and surgical options, and evaluate letters of support. We review the national transgender survey outlining current trends amongst the transgender community and what we as mental health providers can do to advocate for our patients. There is evidence behind hormone replacement therapy and gender affirming surgeries in this community, and as providers with a very high likelihood of encountering several members of this community in our practices, this presentation is a call for action to provide appropriate care, referrals, and advocacy for this patient population.
Ethan Johnston
Demetrios Walker
The Children’s Place is unique in the Kansas City area. Here, no child is turned away; we are the intensive care unit treating young children who have seen the worst life has to offer. Although the agency is accredited, credentialed, and has reputable affiliations in the early childhood education arena—we are, first and foremost, a mental health agency focused on providing high-quality, evidence-based treatment for the most vulnerable children in the community.
Within the community served we often see children in a constant state of survival. These children have an average age of 4.5 and have experienced three or more Adverse Childhood Events already in their lifetime. They most often have had a loss of sense of safety and relationships with those who matter the most. They may have experienced abuse, neglect, or loss and are all coming to The Place to find a sense of safety.
“Flipping the lid” coined by Dan Siegel, occurs when our mid brain takes over and becomes disconnected from the more rational upper brain. Unfortunately, for many children who have experienced trauma are in a constant state of their “lid being flipped”.
Learn how to identify and regulate within the “Zones of Tolerance” to better serve the children of our community who are often times misunderstood due to their early childhood experiences.
Candis Boily
What do we do when our superhero helper persona, the one that doesn’t need to eat or drink throughout the day, the one that always says yes to staying late, the one that doesn’t rest because the need is so great, wears suddenly thin and our humanity comes screaming through? When the story we write as healthcare professionals suddenly goes dark and we can’t find the passion and joy in the work anymore?
In this session Annie will take us through her own journey of burnout and compassion fatigue as a helper and invite us to join her on a journey of healing and restoration. We will explore the motivations that drive us, the assumptions our healthcare systems are based on, and the desperate need our world has for healthcare professionals who have embraced their own humanity. Together we will imagine what the story we are writing this year could look like if we leaned into our human needs, and how we can find little, doable places to begin. And finally, we will explore how Relational Leadership Theory can create work environments and systems that support our humanity rather than demand we play the need-less continual giver. Becoming human: finding our humanity as helpers once again.
Annie Thomas-Landrum
Do you ever feel like something is wrong with your time management skills because you can’t seem to align the needs of your professional and personal life? Do you look around and see others seemingly able to navigate life? This interactive workshop is designed for each participant to pause and take an inventory of their responsibilities, activities, relationships and ask thoughtful questions about the values and needs in your life. It is important to recognize what brings satisfaction and what are the sources of stress. Once this foundation occurs, it is possible to develop healthy strategies to integrate and flex to the changes. This workshop will create awareness and cultivate skills which will lead to a stronger work life harmony.
Ann Thomas
"Learn to Lead" is a presentation designed to help any one who currently works in the mental health profession be an amazing leader! Whether you supervise employees, run a company, or even lead counseling sessions you are a leader in some capacity and you are impacting other peoples lives. It is so crucial to be a great communicator and have the skills you need in order to inspire others to be there very best. Great leaders want to create and cultivate a positive workplace culture where effective communication is welcomed and employees feel heard and valued. This presentation is deigned to help people build healthy relationships and connections within their team. When people feel happy and healthy at work, they will want to stay long term and will do an amazing job talking care of themselves and their clients. Leadership is not something that everyone learns about in school, in fact some people are put in those positions just because they have seniority or a great resume but alarmingly have actually never had any training on it. It can be a challenge for us in the helping profession to hold people accountable if they are not doing their job. A good leader does just that, but in a gentle and encouraging way. The good news is, this presentation will help you learn tools to be a great leader! The greatest thing we can do on this earth is impact others for the better, and it starts with having an amazing and inspiring leader.
Susie Arbo
Participants will learn an expressive writing activity, The Imagine Project, that helps overcome old stories of trauma/stress and create new stories of post-traumatic growth. During this presentation, we are going to be looking at how the old stories that we and our students have in our heads influence the way we perceive ourselves and live life and how these old stories hold us back from overcoming challenges and achieving our goals and dreams. In response to these old stories, you will learn a practical expressive writing activity called The Imagine Project that you can use for yourself and in your practice to start the process of overcoming old stories that represent trauma and stress and creating new ones that lead to post-traumatic growth.
Brant Winn
This roundtable will be presented by 3 people from 2 professional entities: Universty Behavioral Health (represented by Stephanie Morris) and Kansas City Art Institute Counseling Services (represented by Elisabeth Sundermeier and Gina Golba). Despite one mental health center being in a college and the other being in a hospital, the two have found a lot of common ground as to the goals of their work. Both share the strongest passion for preventing the worsening of young adult mental illness, and both try many common sense methods to identify and minimize illness in their respective settings. Together they piloted a program inside KCAI to identify and route potentially suicidal students to care BEFORE crisis hit, and getting those people to the most effective possible care as early as possible. The results have been a substantial improvement in the number of crises on campus. They will discuss the value of knowing the mental health partners/neighbors near you; knowing what services they have (because maybe they have something you need); and using common sense, flexibility, and both partners' talents, to solve the problems you both desire to solve. Much discussion is hoped for and encouraged.
Elisabeth Sundermeier
Gina Golba
Stephanie Morris
At Camber Children’s Mental Health, innovative approaches like expressive therapies help us support and connect to the clients we serve. Expressive therapy is a growing field that is gaining traction in popularity because of its successful outcomes. This mode of therapy uses creative activities to help find, recognize, and process thoughts, emotions, and memories that may be more difficult to express in words. Expressive therapies create a way for therapists to better understand what someone, especially a child, is thinking, feeling and experiencing. It’s a window into their world. In this training led by Music Therapists, attendees will explore several different modalities included in the expressive therapies, understand expressive therapy implementation and their potential impact, and participate in a music therapy activity to better understand the client experience.
Kara LePage
Hillary Sametz
The fight against mental health challenges demands innovative solutions. This presentation explores two powerful threads: the potential of Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs) and the impact of technology-driven care coordination on reducing self-reported mentally unhealthy days. We'll weave these threads together through a compelling Louisville study conducted by Unite Us and Louisville United Way.
Michael Mitchell
Death is the great equalizer. It is a topic we will would often rather avoid, and yet we are missing out on a wealth of knowledge and wisdom when we do this.
This presentation will talk about what death can teach us living. The wisdom and clarity about our values and choices that comes from those facing death.
Lara Ashbaugh
Caring for someone with a mental illness can be mentally, physically, and emotionally draining. Come learn how to provide appropriate support for those coping with a mental health diagnosis, while also learning how to recognize signs of burnout in yourself.
Heather Wilson
Suzie Seitz
Jessica Janis
The primary goal of this training workshop is to equip social work leaders with the knowledge and skills necessary to enhance workforce retention. By focusing on effective supervision strategies, we aim to address key factors influencing behavioral health professionals' intentions to stay on their jobs and enjoy job satisfaction.
Lin Grant
We all know we SHOULD journal – even science says so…but how? If a blank sheet of paper intimidates and overwhelms you more than public speaking join us for tips, tricks, and conversation to get your thoughts out of your head and onto the page. I’ll show you the 1-3-3 method for gratitude journaling – that only takes about 6 minutes a day – and how it was the snowball that avalanched into a best-selling Amazon book and so much more.
Crystal Webster
As organizations that support youth and families with co-morbid mental health and I/DD, together we are better.
This presentation is an example of how a multi-organizational collaboration was organically developed to better equip each organization to serve youth and families in an area of the Kansas City Metro, illustrated through a realistic vignette. Essentially, the presentation reflects the importance and need for developing relationships, and the impact of sharing meaningful time and space with others with an overarching goal of making a difference for families and youth.
This presentation includes staff from: Children’s Mercy, Kansas City; PACES, Wyandotte county CCBHO; Wyandotte county CDDO; Sunflower, MCO; and KU, KFSC at KCART. This group was formed from an introductory outreach call in the summer of 2022 from Children’s Mercy, with the intention of sharing no-cost resources that could benefit families receiving services at PACES, these organizations overlap with the families they serve. During that call, a relationship began and partnering opportunities were discussed, including supporting families of youth with co-morbid I/DD and mental health diagnoses. To better be able to support families, this partnership developed into a collaboration. Connections from other organizations were invited to the group and added to the collaboration. These organizations are aligned in their missions to serve youth and the community with similar concerns, with differing roles. The people from these organizations have developed relationships, shared information and resources and have included additional participants to the collaboration, improving their ability to serve and strengthen the safety net for the community, and plan to continue.
Angela Guzman MA, LCSW, LSCSW
Behavioral Health Community Education Coordinator, Division of Developmental and Behavioral Health, Children’s Mercy Hospital, Kansas City
Bethany Anderson, MSW
PACES SED waiver supervisor
Diane Victory, MS, LCMFT
Phyllis Wallace
Kristine Meier, M.S.Ed., BCBA
Sean Swindler, M.S.Ed.
Service to others often exposes Veterans and First Responders to elevated levels of trauma, posing distinct challenges to their well-being. While strides have been made in comprehending the science and impact of trauma, there remains a significant gap in understanding how to facilitate the healing process for these individuals. This session aims to delve into the challenges that Veterans and First Responders encounter as they strive to overcome trauma.
Traditional healing methods, while valuable, may fall short in addressing the unique needs of those who have served on the front lines. This presentation will explore the limitations of conventional approaches and emphasize the crucial role of transformation in the healing journey for our nation's heroes.
Jamie Wehmeyer
Many families involved in child welfare find themselves in a situation where the family needs safety (due to out of control behaviors), but need and want to remain together. Using evidence-based practices, the most current brain science, and relational interventions including Kinship Support, In-Home Behavior Intervention, Trauma Education for the caregiver and Trauma-Informed Therapy, this case study demonstrates a child that made significant gains and remained in his caregivers home without the need for out of home placement. Staff Members involved with these interventions will be joining in this presentation.
Kealey Williams-Roach
Angela Binder
Denaye Ersery
In this presentation we will review the basics of the suicide conversation and talk deeper about how innovation plays a huge role in an uncomfortable conversation that we all must be prepared for in this field. Suicide prevention is a topic that often we shy away from feeling confident in so this presentation aims to increase that confidence and increase attendees knowledge of the topic as a whole.
Kirsti Millar
Narcissism is currently a buzzword and is used as a popular word to label and blame someone. In this session, we will learn to recognize if someone's behaviors are actually narcissistic, and consider how harm occurs when in a relationship with someone with narcissistic traits. The toxicity of narcissistic abuse is far-reaching, including manipulations, emotional blackmail, devaluing, and gaslighting behaviors. We will discuss ways to heal from a toxic or narcissistic relationship, explore treatment options, and discuss how healing comes from learning new coping skills and treating the underlying trauma clients experience.
What is the process to aid recovery from a narcissistic relationship? We will explore tools useful to assist clients in regaining their sense of self.
Barbara Beck
Join these panelists as they share their lived experience of receiving a diagnosis of a mental illness, navigating the challenges of the mental health system, and what they do for their own recovery and well-being.
Natalie Hull
Attorney-at-Law
Markie Ridgway (He/They)
Peer Support Specialist/Peer Team Supervisor
Shalise Williams, CPS, CHW-C & MRSS
Moderator: Tom Petrizzo
CEO, Beacon Mental Health
Wesley Hamilton shares his remarkable journey from surviving multiple gunshots to becoming an unstoppable force of inspiration. Hamilton's powerful narrative of overcoming the unimaginable through courage, strength, and perseverance is not just his story—it's a universal call to action. His real-life lessons on positivity, self-awareness, empowerment, resilience, and acceptance equip you with the tools needed to face any of life's challenges head-on. This talk challenges the conventional perception of adversity, encouraging us to welcome and embrace our obstacles as pathways to growth. Learn how to accept and find positive lessons in every situation, understanding that our reactions shape our lives far more than the circumstances themselves. it's a transformative experience that teaches you to value your life in such a way that adversity becomes a welcomed challenge with endless rewards.
Wesley Hamilton
Ketamine therapy is making revolutionary contributions to mental health. Improved outcomes can be achieved for a variety of mental health diagnoses.
Ketamine therapy has shown effectiveness in addressing treatment-resistant depression, anxiety disorders, acute suicidality, PTSD, and others. Ketamine also increases neuroplasticity and facilitates the implementation of heathy habits and routines in daily life.
NAD is a coenzyme involved in cellular energy restoration and can enhance brain function. NAD may be another effective adjunct, as it exhibits promise in treating addiction, anxiety, depression, and age-related cognitive decline.
Routine evaluation is essential to gauge mood and therapeutic impact. Clinicians can employ standardized rating scales, patient self-reports, and clinical observations to assess improvements in mental health symptoms, functionality, and overall well-being.
Integrating pharmacological interventions with psychotherapeutic approaches enhances treatment outcomes, addressing both biological and psychological aspects of mental health. Collaboration amongst providers ensures open communication channels for a seamless integration of infusion therapies into the broader treatment plan.
As clinicians, we contribute to a comprehensive and personalized approach to mental health care by understanding the indications and limitations of ketamine and NAD infusions, employing effective evaluation strategies, and integrating them with talk therapy. By embracing these innovative therapies, we advance the possibilities for improved patient outcomes and wellbeing.
Room No: RC 101 A/D
Jordan Schmidt
Concrete and analytical thinkers often encounter a distinct divide when engaging with individuals who lead with abstract or emotive thought processes. As many therapists, and the modalities they employ, utilize a language of abstraction, this poses a significant barrier to effective counseling as certain aspects are challenging to access. The imperative lies in constructing a bridge to cross this divide.
This bridge is first born out of creating a collaborative and responsive therapeutic environment which is facilitated through adjusting methods based on the client’s preferences. Leveraging certain key theories and approaches into effective communication concepts and interventions can go a long way toward creating more access to change.
While translating emotive and abstract elements of therapy demands effort, the undertaking is undeniably worthwhile. It introduces grounding and precision to the abstract and infuses empathy and understanding into the concrete. Most importantly, in the process of bridging between the two, a third emergent understanding is cultivated, fostering a new integrated perspective for both the client and the therapist alike.
Room No: MTC 232
Amber Dickson
Focused on Young Professionals as they transition into the working world. Throughout their lives young people are told "go to college, and get a job" where all focus and resource is targeted at that goal. After graduation or upon entry into the working world, what's next? What does a young professional do for the next 40+ years of their life? What happens when that dream job doesn't end up being the dream job, or the paycheck doesn't bring the happiness expected. This paired with the pressure of social media and comparing themselves to their peer's highlight reels, young professionals feel more isolated, or lost when trying to find their path. This is where the importance of community and genuine connection come into play. Creating a community of young professionals allows young people to cultivate productive relationships outside of social media and also lean on others who are on the same or similar path experiencing the same or similar challenges. Education is another key part of growth and development post grad. Just because school has ended doesn't mean education does as well. Arming young professionals with information on topics not necessarily talked about in school can help set them up to tackle the real adversities life will throw at them. In the same vein, Mental Health support, just like a bruise or a cut, when a young professional is struggling with their mental health this community has resources and guidance to get them the help they need and be a reminder they are not on their journey alone.
Room No: RC 270
Mark Potts
Ryder Chaffee
I started The Just A Mom podcast in September of 2022 based on my personal experience of parenting a child with mental illness. When my son was in the darkest point of his illness I felt very alone and, at points, that there wasn’t a lot of hope. I kept my son’s struggles to myself because I was afraid of the judgment around my parenting. I was afraid I would be called a “bad parent” because my son was struggling with depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation. The Just A Mom podcast features interviews with parents of kids who have struggles with mental illness, those with lived experience, and mental health professionals and organizations. The Just A Mom podcast is in its fifth season and has over 20,000 total downloads. The goals of The Just A Mom podcast are to help people know they are not alone and there is hope, encouraging people to talk about mental health thus reducing the stigma, and sharing mental health resources. My presentation I will address the following myths about mental illness:
Based on bad parenting
Is a choice
Is all “in your head”
Is a character flaw
Is a sign of weakness
Is less important than physical health
Room No: RC 175
Susie Gurley
In this presentation we will learn how to become efficient, significant and successful leaders. We will learn how to build a healthy workplace culture with developing collaboration and a sense of community. We will learn how to help staff identify stress, burnout and compassion fatigue. We will learn how to develop ways to manage stress, burnout and compassion fatigue.
Room No: RC 101 B/C
Monty Miller
Writing is a therapeutic exercise that can help an individual process experiences, express emotions in a healthy way, and record events for future reference. Writing can also aid someone in drawing out memories of the past that may need to be addressed and resolved. In this presentation, Caroline S. Cooper, a peer specialist in mental health and a published author on mental health topics, will teach session attendees about different styles of writing and how they can benefit an individual moving through the recovery process. As an example, Caroline will share how writing played a crucial role in her recovery journey. During the workshop, attendees will have opportunities to participate in writing exercises to practice some of the material presented. A handout will be provided for notes and will contain a summary of the different writing styles which will include the following: poetry, journal, blog, social media posts, and memoir.
Room No: MTC 212
Caroline Cooper
This will be an examination of the Substance Use Disorder and the impact that the disease has on the person experiencing addiction, as well as examination of the impact of the disease on those close to the the person experiencing addiction. It will explore ways in which the person experiencing addiction can be exposed to recovery and a life without alcohol/drugs. Equally important, it will look at the impact that the destructive behavior of the person experiencing addiction has on family members and those close to the person with substance use disorder, how they can cope with the stress associated with that behavior, and what they can do to help the person experiencing addiction, and/or themselves.
No one but the addict can take the first step towards recovery; but there are tools, such as intervention, which can increase the chances of the alcoholic facing their addiction. Intervention, though, is only one of the tools. There are others, and even if those methods don't lead the addict to recovery, they can still help the person close to the alcoholic gain some acceptance and healthy way for them to deal with the situation going forward.
The presenter has spent a quarter of a century helping members of the Missouri Bar with substance use issues to examine their situation. The presenter has also spent more than a decade (and 3 years as Board of Directors President) of a not-for-profit which has a major emphasis on helping those close to the alcoholic.
The information provided in this presentation can help mental health providers treat addicts and those close to them.
Room No: RC 145
Hugh O'Donnell
This presentation will cover the mental health benefits of humor in the workplace, whether giving or receiving. Data will be provided on how humor can impact the environment and well-being of both employees and those we support.
Hopefully we laugh a little bit too!
Room No: NMOCA 217
Lisa Stone
Join us to navigate the evolving landscape of crisis response, where the 988 initiative serves as a linchpin in transforming how we approach mental health emergencies. From dissecting internal mechanisms to exploring external partnerships, this presentation promises an enlightening journey into the heart of crisis intervention strategies in Johnson County, KS.
Room No: RC 181
Jessica Murphy
Renee VanMeter
During this session, we’ll share the journey some organizations have been on to become a CCHBC and ways technology was leveraged along the way.
Room No: MTC 234
Scott Green
Join panelists from reStart to discuss the intersection houselessness, transitional housing, and mental health
Room No: MTC 211
Elijah Buchholz, LPC, LCAC (he/him)
Clinical Director—Housing and Employment, ReDiscover
Marion Petty III
Housing Liaison -- Swope
Robyn Hudson
CPRC Supervisor—Housing, Beacon MH
Moderator: Randy Callstrom
President/CEO, Wyandot Behavioral Health
During “The Road Home” will embark together on a variety of stories surrounding the mental health impact of people experiencing homelessness right here in the metro. They will share intimate details thru their video stories and we will have a panel discussion with participants and reStart team members.
Room No: RC 183
Stephanie Boyer
ReStart
Jessica Brown, MSW
Director of Adult and Clinical Services.
Rachelle Smith
This presentation delves into the landscape of mental health help-seeking behaviors among men, with a specific focus on blue collar and rural demographics. In a society where mental health stigma persists, exploring the social determinants that influence men's reluctance to seek support becomes imperative. The lens of masculinity further complicates this issue, as traditional notions of strength and self-reliance can act as deterrents to acknowledging and addressing mental health concerns.
Our discussion will unveil the unique challenges faced by blue collar and rural men, shedding light on the impact of cultural and occupational factors on their mental health journey. By dissecting these barriers, we aim to develop a comprehensive understanding of the intricate dynamics at play.
To bridge the gap between mental health services and the underserved demographic, our presentation will explore strategies to increase accessibility. Tailoring services to align with the specific needs and preferences of men in these communities is essential for fostering a more inclusive and effective mental health support system. We will delve into innovative approaches that acknowledge and respect the diverse ways men express vulnerability and seek help.
Join us in this exploration of breaking down societal norms, challenging stereotypes, and paving the way for a more inclusive and responsive mental health ecosystem. Together, we can cultivate an environment where blue collar and rural men feel empowered to prioritize their mental well-being without compromising their identity or livelihoods.
Room No: RC 101 B/C
Geni Harms
Mandy Greene
Embodying the broader theme of change and diversity as essential elements in achieving equitable and fair outcomes across various sectors. Through delving into the challenges presented by societal evolution and emphasizing the need for adaptability and a commitment to fundamental principles. Discussion surrounding the transformative power of embracing unseen diversities, fostering relationships, and practicing inclusive leadership in navigating periods of change. This workshop will ask participants to reflect on the impact of recent global challenges, such as the pandemic, on individuals' perspectives and the potential for growth during times of turmoil. Upon attendance, attendees will be empowered to advocate for a continuous commitment to inclusiveness, diversity, and positive change across different contexts by normalizing diversities, viewing differences as opportunities for growth, and building relationships to enhance psychological safety.
Room No: RC 181
AUDREY ANGER
Living with ADHD and other types of neurodiversity present a challenge, as the world isn't built with them in mind. Coping skills and life skills are built for the neurotypical, and often times these don't fully meet the needs of those with neurodiversity. This presentation is about how to approach skills from diversity perspective, how to change skills to work for the individual, and suggestions for life skills created for the neurodiverse mind.
Room No: NMOCA 217
Lara Ashbaugh
10 Considerations When Working With Foster Families provides social workers with psychoeducation on lived experiences from a foster parent and research informed, evidence-based interventions that can strengthen foster family relationships. The ten topics include: (1) Learn how to implement the Foster-Mapping exercise, (2) learn how to identify and address the unknown fear response of foster youth, (3) learn how to antidote narcissistic personality symptoms, (4) learn and bust common myths foster parents believe, (5) learn how to help foster parents identify unique qualities of foster youth, (6) learn how to address emotional abuse from foster parents, (7) learn how to help foster parents to address anger outbursts, (8) learn the importance of exploring nutrient therapy with foster families, (9) learn how to support foster parents with identifying their limitations, and (10) learn about various spiritual practices that foster families may use to support their resilience.
David Wermuth
Online (Electronic) Safety is a constantly changing and highly dangerous issue that children face today. Topics will include: current online/technology dangers, perpetrator characteristics, reporting process, safety tips and tools, sexting laws and the latest app/gaming information. Bring your questions, concerns and challenges, as this presentation will be an interactive format, including developmentally appropriate information for youth.
Room No: RC 270
Monica Cattau
Det. Chris Moore
This workshop will help you retain your staff and help them to feel positive and productive when they come to work. People want to work for a company they feel cared for and valued and that they are a piece of the puzzle to make the company flow. This workshop will give you tips and tricks to engage and retain employees. In the mental health field we are struggling to find enough clinicians to serve all the people reaching out for therapy. In this workshop, we will teach people how to welcome diversity and inclusivity. This is the first time that we are working with 5 generations in the workplace so knowing how to communicate with everyone on staff is so important. It is crucial to be able to keep people happy and healthy working for your company.
Room No: RC 101 A/D
Susie Arbo
Lindsey Bush
Depression and anxiety are two prevalent mental health disorders that often coexist and share overlapping symptoms. Both conditions can manifest as persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. Additionally, individuals may experience physical symptoms such as fatigue, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, and restlessness.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an evidence-based therapeutic approach that has shown effectiveness in addressing both depression and anxiety. ACT focuses on developing psychological flexibility by teaching individuals to accept their thoughts and feelings without judgment while committing to actions aligned with their values.
ACT offers a holistic approach to addressing the complex interplay of depression and anxiety symptoms. Rather than trying to eliminate these symptoms, ACT aims to help individuals cultivate psychological resilience and lead more fulfilling lives despite their challenges.
Room No: MTC 232
Jennifer Watts, LCSW
This session will describe the passing of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, and how the Department of Labor (DOL) has increased enforcement of Mental Health Parity laws and ensuing members receive promised mental health and substance use disorder benefits. Federal Parity rules require health plans that offer mental health coverage to ensure that financial requirements (such as deductibles, copayments, coinsurance, and out-of-pocket limits) and treatment limits (such as day and visit limits as well as nonquantitative limits on benefits such as prior authorization) on these benefits are no more restrictive than those on medical and surgical benefits. The COVID-19 pandemic heightened awareness of mental health concerns. Strengthening parity protections is part of a larger policy discussion that includes addressing denied claims, rising treatment needs among youth, inadequate health care infrastructure to address those in crisis, and the need for improved coordination and integration of primary care and mental health care in underserved communities. All of these issues contribute to the access and coverage challenges in health coverage that MHPAEA laws intend to address. As EBSA continues to work with other federal agencies to update parity regulations, our presentation explains the federal Mental Health Parity Act requirements – including who they apply to and how they’re enforced — and sets out key policy issues and accessible tools to use for compliance.
Room No: RC 183
Grace Williams
RWorkplace bullying poses a significant threat to mental health and well-being, presenting a challenge for mental health professionals who grapple with limited effective strategies for both targets and bystanders. Traditional interventions, rooted in outdated approaches, risk amplifying the traumatic effects on those seeking assistance. The goal is to redefine the narrative around workplace bullying by emphasizing the importance of harm reduction strategies and addressing the traumatic effects on targets and bystanders.
Mental health professionals must be cognizant of the potential harm associated with using such interventions. Building awareness and fostering a deeper understanding of workplace bullying, with all its nuances, are crucial for effective interventions. It becomes essential to emphasize the incorporation of harm reduction strategies into their practices. This approach not only contributes to trauma mitigation but also establishes a more supportive environment for both targets and bystanders, addressing the overarching issue of workplace bullying.
Harm reduction emerges as a guiding principle in navigating workplace bullying interventions, prompting professionals to reconsider their approaches. Through the sharing of knowledge and the implementation of innovative strategies, the intention is to reshape the narrative on workplace well-being, emphasizing empathy, understanding, and harm reduction to foster resilience and promote overall well-being.
Room No: RC 145
Jan Kircher
This session offers a multifaceted approach to addressing substance use disorders and enhancing community response. Participants will gain invaluable insights as a peer recovery support specialist shares their lived experience of drug use, overdose, and navigating the care continuum. The training includes: a peer recovery support specialist sharing their lived experience of drug use, overdose, and navigating the care continuum; the effect of addiction on the brain; and the role stigma and biases play in delaying the recovery process.
Room No: MTC 212
Kreasha Williams
Jennifer Wolfe-Brown
Join panelists from both sides of the state line, representing several systems, in this revealing discussion about what goes on at mental health court and the benefits for both participants and the community.
Room No: MTC 211
Sergeant Sean Hess
CIT with KCPD
Christine Barr, LMSW, LCSW
Manager for treatment court-Beacon Mental Health
Chris McMullin
Chief Deputy District Attorney, Johnson County DA’s Office
Mark Bonds
Court Programs Coordinator, Johnson County Mental Health
Moderator: Tim DeWeese
Director, Johnson County Mental Health
This breakout session focuses on the critical, yet frequently neglected, overlap between mental health and disability.
Room No: MTC 234
Wesley Hamilton
Metro Council is able to offer the annual Mental Health KC Conference in large part due to the participation of sponsor organizations. These sponsorships allow us to bring an affordable, first-rate conference experience along with additional subject-specific symposiums throughout the year.
Metro Council offers a variety of sponsorship opportunities from which to choose. You may click below to view the sponsorship levels for the 2024 Mental Health KC Conference.
Please choose the event sponsorship package that best fits your organization's needs and fill out the form to start receiving your sponsor benefits!
For questions regarding sponsorship opportunities, please contact Carl Anderson at canderson@thecmhs.com
