Hell or High Seas Screening & Panel Discussion
2022-09-08 18:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York)
Screening and panel discussion in recognition of Suicide Awareness Month. A moving portrait of a Veteran using his own painful journey with PTSD to find healing. Panel discussion moderated by program implementation specialist, Lee Wagner.

Thursday, September 8, 6 PM – 9 PM
William Pitt Union
3959 5th Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA
Screening is free and open to the public. Register online to attend.
A virtual screening will also be available.

Integrating Public and Ecosystem Health Systems to Foster Resilience
2022-09-19 11:00 - 15:00
Integrating Public and Ecosystem Health Systems to Foster Resilience: A Workshop to Identify Research to Bridge the Knowledge-To-Action Gap

About this event

September 19, 11:00 am-3:30 pm EDT virtual

This workshop will bring together research, practitioner, and policy communities along with other stakeholders to explore opportunities to advance understanding of the interconnections between public health and Nature and discuss how to move from knowledge to action through better integration of knowledge, policy, and practice.
This workshop will consider the strengths and lessons learned from existing activities focused on the integration of public health and Nature research. It will also explore how we can advance integration through new and emerging cross-cutting research areas and develop solutions that inform policy and practice while promoting equity, justice, and resilience. Building on these discussions, workshop participants will consider how to develop a new research agenda that harnesses existing knowledge and new advancements and more effectively promotes the translation of this information into policy and practice.
Learn more and register online.

Erie VAMC Mental Health Summit 2022
2022-09-27 08:30 - 12:00
When:

Tue. Sep 27, 2022, 8:30 am – 12:00 pm ET

Where:
This is an online event.

Cost:
Free

Join Erie VA Medical Center, along with representatives from the Pittsburgh VAMC-UD, VA Butler Healthcare System, and the Erie County Office of Drug and Alcohol Abuse as they present crisis management and suicide prevention education to Veterans, family members, and community stakeholders.
Topics of discussion to include:

Widespread use of substances in the Veteran population
The increase in substance abuse related deaths since 2020
The correlating statistics of substance abuse and suicidality, including the higher likelihood of suicide attempts
Referral, admission, and contact procedures for the Substance Abuse programs at the Erie VA; the Butler Domiciliary, and the Pittsburgh Center for the Treatment of Drug and Alcohol Abuse
Services offered at the Erie County Office of Drug and Alcohol Abuse, including trends seen by this office

Register by phone or email:
814-860-2403 | Anne.Rill@va.gov

Coaching Into Care – Role of Veterans Family Members and Friends in Mental Health Care
2022-10-05 11:00 - 12:30
Coaching Into Care – Role of Veterans Family Members and Friends in Mental Health Care
Wednesday, October 5, 2022
11:00 AM – 12:30 PM EST

Where
Virtual Webinar
Start Time by Time Zones:
8:00 am – Pacific / Arizona
9:00 am – Mountain
10:00 am – Central
11:00 am – Eastern

Contact
Katie E. Civiletto Stenger
Summit BHC Tactical Recovery
716-673-5017 katie.stenger@summitbhc.com

Presented By:
Cindy Swinkels, Ph. D., CBSM, DBSM

11th Annual National LOSS Team Conference
2022-10-16 08:00 - 2022-10-18 17:00
The Annual National LOSS (Local Outreach to Suicide Survivors) Team Conference is a multi-dimensional, multi-day event that actively explores the public health crisis of suicide. It includes community engagement, nationally recognized subject experts, and strategic conference topics, creating a unique opportunity for mental health professionals, first responders, school counselors, faith leaders, funeral directors, suicide loss survivors, LOSS Team members, and other community members to share and learn about caring for those struggling with a loss to suicide.

This year’s conference theme is ‘Postvention is Prevention’. Developing a LOSS Team and integrating it into a community provides immediate support and resources to persons who have lost a loved one, friend, or colleague to suicide. LOSS Teams engage in advanced postvention efforts that take place immediately following a death by suicide and provide services, support, and linkage to the suicidally bereaved. Regrettably, in many communities there is no organized response to local suicides, which can leave survivors to feel isolated, guilty, or ashamed as they attempt to find a path forward. The bereaved may struggle for long periods of time before seeking or receiving help. LOSS Teams can change that. Research shows that families touched by suicide that do not receive initial services by a LOSS Team will wait many years before reaching out for help.

The ONSITE conference registration fee includes the following:

Admittance to all 4 keynote speakers
Admittance to 5 workshops
CEUs*
Breakfast, lunch, and snacks for both conference days
Optional evening excursion: Trolley ride to downtown Fort Wayne

The VIRTUAL conference registration fee includes the following:

Admittance to all 4 keynote speakers
Admittance to one workshop from each track
LOSS panel
LOSS Team panel

*Continuing education hours are available for conference attendees and are included in the registration fee. Certificates are awarded by Purdue University Fort Wayne and will be emailed after the conference.

Visit the conference website for full details and registration.

How States and Communities Can Better Support Military and Veteran Caregivers
2022-12-13 14:00 - 15:30
Date: Three-part series: December 13, 2022; January 12, 2023; February 9, 2023Time: 2:00–3:30 p.m. ET
Register Online

Session 1 – The Future of Caregiving: A Path for the Way Forward

Part 1: Tuesday, December 13, 2022, 2:00-3:30 p.m. ET

Learning Objectives

Describe what we know about the caregiver population, which includes not only spouses but also children, grandparents, siblings, neighbors, and friends
Review the recently released National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers
Examine the latest research and national trends on military and Veteran caregivers

Presenter

Roxana Delgado, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, UT Health San Antonio; Research Advisor to the Campaign for Inclusive Care, Dole Caregiver Fellow Alumna, Elizabeth Dole Foundation

With over 5.5 million military and Veteran caregivers in the United States, the implementation of the newly released National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers is a critical step forward for those caring for our Nation’s wounded, ill, and injured service members and Veterans. Caregivers consistently experience worse health outcomes, greater challenges in family relationships, and increased difficulties in the workplace than non-caregivers. Military and Veteran caregivers are unique in that they tend to be younger and serve in caregiver roles longer than their civilian counterparts.

This learning community will provide participants an opportunity to learn in a small group and interactive setting. The objectives of this learning community are to (1) Discover a framework for supporting military and Veteran caregivers, (2) Examine how both paid and informal caregivers can be recognized and valued in the continuum of care, and (3) Identify resources available that are specifically tailored for military and Veteran caregivers.

The learning community will meet monthly for three sessions beginning in December 2022 via Zoom. Each session will feature an expert presentation with engaging group discussion incorporated throughout.

Acupuncture & Pain Management for Veteran Clients with Physical Symptoms of PTSD and Chronic Pain
2022-12-16 11:00 - 13:00
Acupuncture & Pain Management for Veteran Clients with Physical Symptoms of PTSD and Chronic Pain
December 16, 11:00 am to 1:00 pm EST
The course will be about introducing alternative options for physical symptoms related to PTSD such as insomnia, nightmares, chronic pain, and fatigue. It will include detailed information on modalities to help manage these symptoms for better engagement in clinical services.

How States and Communities Can Better Support Military and Veteran Caregivers
2023-01-12 14:00 - 15:30
Date: Three-part series: December 13, 2022; January 12, 2023; February 9, 2023Time: 2:00–3:30 p.m. ET
Register Online

Session 2 – Identifying and Engaging Military and Veteran Caregivers

Thursday, January 12, 2023, 2:00-3:30 p.m. ET

Learning Objectives

Describe the challenges of self-identification
Discover strategies for better outreach and engagement
Identify opportunities to empower the caregiver voice

Presenter

Melissa Comeau, M.S., Director, Military Veteran Caregiver Network, American Red Cross

With over 5.5 million military and Veteran caregivers in the United States, the implementation of the newly released National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers is a critical step forward for those caring for our Nation’s wounded, ill, and injured service members and Veterans. Caregivers consistently experience worse health outcomes, greater challenges in family relationships, and increased difficulties in the workplace than non-caregivers. Military and Veteran caregivers are unique in that they tend to be younger and serve in caregiver roles longer than their civilian counterparts.

This learning community will provide participants an opportunity to learn in a small group and interactive setting. The objectives of this learning community are to (1) Discover a framework for supporting military and Veteran caregivers, (2) Examine how both paid and informal caregivers can be recognized and valued in the continuum of care, and (3) Identify resources available that are specifically tailored for military and Veteran caregivers.

The learning community will meet monthly for three sessions beginning in December 2022 via Zoom. Each session will feature an expert presentation with engaging group discussion incorporated throughout.

Recovery is Community Virtual Narcan Training
2023-01-19 12:00 - 13:00
Virtual Training Series
This is a Recovery is Community NWPA grant project through UPMC Western Behavioral Health at Safe Harbor.
We hope you can join us for our Recovery is Beautiful NWPA Naloxone Training Series every third Thursday at 12-1pm. These talks will feature Susan Huffman, Senior Program Specialist for Venango County SCA and Julia Covert, Prevention Specialist for Crawford County Drug and Alcohol.
FREE. Register online.
Free CE credit of 1.0 hour will be offered for LSW/LCSW/LPC/LMFT and Nursing to those who attend.

Requirements include attendance for the duration of the session and completion of a course evaluation provided at the end of the session.
ACCREDITATION
In support of improving patient care the University of Pittsburgh is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) to provide continuing education for the health care team.
SOCIAL WORK (CEU)
Mercyhurst University’s Department of Social Work is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education and is an approved provider of Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapist and Professional Counselor continuing education by the Pennsylvania State Licensing Board.

Recovery is Community: Tobacco Use in Behavioral Health
2023-02-07 12:00 - 13:00
Presented by Tony Klein, MPA, NCACII, & Katie Gassner, CTTS
Despite significant progress made in reducing smoking in the general population, individuals with mental and substance use disorders bear a disproportionate burden of tobacco-related illness, disability, and premature death. This training explores the basis for widespread smoking in the recovering community and the bio-psycho-social aspects of tobacco use disorder. The basis of all recovery is hope and a belief that our current circumstances can be improved, managed, and overcome. Learning tobacco-free coping skills is safe, achievable, enhances physical and mental health, reduces social stigma, and contributes to long-term recovery.
Learning Objectives – participants will be able to:

Define the origin of prevailing tobacco-related social norms in the recovery and treatment culture.
Identify strategy to mobilize the recovery and treatment community to de-normalize tobacco use and support interventions tailored to individuals in behavioral health services.

ONLINE Tuesday, Feb 7 • 12 pm to 1 pm
FREE. Register online.

Free CE credit of 1.0 hour for AMA, ANCC, and LSW/LCW/LPC/LMFT will be offered to those who attend.
Requirements include attendance for the duration of the session and completion of a course evaluation provided at the end of the session.
ACCREDITATION
In support of improving patient care the University of Pittsburgh is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) to provide continuing education for the health care team.
PHYSICIAN (CME)
The University of Pittsburgh designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
SOCIAL WORK (CEU)
Mercyhurst University’s Department of Social Work is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education and is an approved provider of Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapist and Professional Counselor continuing education by the Pennsylvania State Licensing Board.

How States and Communities Can Better Support Military and Veteran Caregivers
2023-02-09 14:00 - 15:30
Three-part Series: December 13, 2022; January 12, 2023; February 9, 2023Time: 2:00–3:30 p.m. ET
Register Online
Part 3: February 9, 2023

Session 3 – Strengthening Community Supports and Promoting Financial Wellness for Military and Veteran Caregivers

Thursday, February 9, 2023, 2:00-3:30 p.m. ET

Learning Objectives

Illustrate how states and communities can come together to support military and Veteran caregivers
Highlight the challenges caregivers face related to financial wellness and the resources available to help

Presenter

Shawn Moore, L.M.S.W., Founder, Executive Director, Caregivers on the Homefront; Program Manager, Financial Wellness, Elizabeth Dole Foundation

With over 5.5 million military and Veteran caregivers in the United States, the implementation of the newly released National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers is a critical step forward for those caring for our Nation’s wounded, ill, and injured service members and Veterans. Caregivers consistently experience worse health outcomes, greater challenges in family relationships, and increased difficulties in the workplace than non-caregivers. Military and Veteran caregivers are unique in that they tend to be younger and serve in caregiver roles longer than their civilian counterparts.

This learning community will provide participants an opportunity to learn in a small group and interactive setting. The objectives of this learning community are to (1) Discover a framework for supporting military and Veteran caregivers, (2) Examine how both paid and informal caregivers can be recognized and valued in the continuum of care, and (3) Identify resources available that are specifically tailored for military and Veteran caregivers.

The learning community will meet monthly for three sessions beginning in December 2022 via Zoom. Each session will feature an expert presentation with engaging group discussion incorporated throughout.

Recovery is Community: Differential Diagnosis with Complaints of Attention Problems
2023-02-10 12:00 - 13:00
Presented by Lisa May, Ph.D.
This presentation will review common differential diagnoses and symptom presentation for attention/focus patient complaints.
Learning Objectives – Participants will be able to:

·Identify common differential diagnoses when presented with patient complaint of attention problems.
·Identify some common screening tools that could be used to assist with diagnosis.
·Identify when referral for neuropsychological evaluation is recommended to assist with diagnosis.

FREE. Register online.
Free CE credit of 1.0 hour for AMA, ANCC, and LSW/LCW/LPC/LMFT will be offered to those who attend.
Requirements include attendance for the duration of the session and completion of a course evaluation provided at the end of the session.
ACCREDITATION
In support of improving patient care the University of Pittsburgh is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) to provide continuing education for the health care team.
PHYSICIAN (CME)
The University of Pittsburgh designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
SOCIAL WORK (CEU)
Mercyhurst University’s Department of Social Work is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education and is an approved provider of Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapist and Professional Counselor continuing education by the Pennsylvania State Licensing Board.

Recovery is Community: The PA Statewide Tobacco-Free Recovery Initiative
2023-02-21 12:00 - 13:00
Tuesday, Feb 21 • 12 pm to 1 pm
FREE. Register online.
Presented by Tony Klein, MPA, NCACII, & Katie Gassner, CTTS
Pennsylvanians who enter recovery from mental and substance use disorders deserve the best care possible. Over the years, we’ve learned that people who are offered evidenced-based tobacco interventions while in treatment for other addictions have better overall treatment outcomes compared to those who do not. Despite this understanding, tobacco use is often overlooked in the treatment setting and smoking remains a prime form of socialization in the recovering community. This training provides an overview of the Pennsylvania Statewide Tobacco-Free Recovery Initiative. Advancing a new normal supportive of tobacco interventions is achieved through an integrated, data-driven systems approach, community partnerships, and a strength-based, recovery-oriented perspective.
Learning Objectives – Participant will be able to:

Define the PA Statewide Tobacco-Free Recovery Initiative’s vision and mission.
Cite three strategies to advance evidence-based tobacco use disorder interventions within a recovery-oriented framework.

Free CE credit of 1.0 hour for AMA, ANCC, and LSW/LCW/LPC/LMFT will be offered to those who attend.
Requirements include attendance for the duration of the session and completion of a course evaluation provided at the end of the session.
ACCREDITATION
In support of improving patient care the University of Pittsburgh is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) to provide continuing education for the health care team.
PHYSICIAN (CME)
The University of Pittsburgh designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
SOCIAL WORK (CEU)
Mercyhurst University’s Department of Social Work is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education and is an approved provider of Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapist and Professional Counselor continuing education by the Pennsylvania State Licensing Board.

Caring for Veterans in Crisis: First Responder Summit
2023-02-22 08:30 - 12:00
FIRST RESPONDER SUMMIT
Caring for Veterans in Crisis
Wednesday, February 22, 2023
8:30 a.m. – Noon | Registration 8:00 a.m.
Blasco Library
Hirt Auditorium
160 East Front Street, Erie, PA 16507
Erie VA Medical Center Behavioral Health Clinic and the Erie County Department of Veterans Affairs invite front line workers, police, fire and rescue, and EMTS participate in our First Responder Summit.
Presenters will share best practices to assist and treat Veterans in:
• Suicide Prevention
• Homeless Care
• Substance Use Disorder
Attendees will also receive information on resources and programs available to assist Veterans with:
• VA’s Whole Health Program – complimentary alternative medicine
• PACT Act Claims – navigating expanded VA health care
• Compensated Work Therapy – Additional employment resources
Speakers will discuss best practices for assisting and treating Veterans in need.
Register by February 21. Contact Jason Brown
at 814-860-2023 or jason.brown10@va.gov

Evaluating the Effects of Opioids and Benzodiazepines on All-Cause Mortality in Veterans
2023-03-09 09:00 - 12:00
March 9, 2023 | 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. ET
Opioids and benzodiazepines are often prescribed to manage chronic pain. The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine has convened an expert committee to evaluate the effects of opioids and benzodiazepines on all-cause mortality of veterans, including suicide.The Committee to Evaluate the Effects of Opioids and Benzodiazepines on All-Cause Mortality of Veterans will hold a public session during its second meeting on March 9, 2023, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. ET, to include presentations on trends in opioid and benzodiazepine use, and data and study design considerations.The event will be accessible via live webcast, and there is limited capacity for in-person attendees on a first come, first served basis. Learn more and register on the event page.

Recovery is Community: Evaluation and Diagnosis of ADD in Adults
2023-03-10 12:00 - 13:00
Friday, Mar 10 • 12 pm to 1 pm
FREE. Register online.
Presented by Lisa May, Ph.D.
This presentation will review diagnostic criteria for adult ADD diagnoses and review neuropsychological evaluation processes as well as screening tools that can be used.
Learning Objectives – Upon completion of this session participants will be able to:

· Identify the DSM -5 diagnostic criteria for Attention Deficit Disorder.
· Identify elements of a neuropsychological evaluation for attention difficulties.
· Identify some common screening tools that can be helpful in identify possible diagnoses related to attention complaints.
·Identify at least 3 compensatory strategies to offer to patients that are not medication related.

Free CE credit of 1.0 hour for AMA, ANCC, and LSW/LCW/LPC/LMFT will be offered to those who attend.
Requirements include attendance for the duration of the session and completion of a course evaluation provided at the end of the session.
ACCREDITATION
In support of improving patient care the University of Pittsburgh is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) to provide continuing education for the health care team.
PHYSICIAN (CME)
The University of Pittsburgh designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
SOCIAL WORK (CEU)
Mercyhurst University’s Department of Social Work is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education and is an approved provider of Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapist and Professional Counselor continuing education by the Pennsylvania State Licensing Board.

Women Veterans Conference
2023-03-24 - 2023-03-26
March is Women Veterans Month
Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of PA is proud to sponsor the Women Veterans ConferenceMarch 24–26, 2023Pittsburgh, PAPittsburgh Marriott North, 100 Cranberry Woods Drive, Cranberry Township, PA 16066
Agenda Includes: Veterans Benefits and how to access proper health care and benefits for women; presentations by several women veterans’ advocacy groups; leadership seminars; a motivational speaker; networking and camaraderie and much more All women veterans in Pennsylvania are welcome to attend. You do not need to be a member of the VFW in order to attend.
Please join us for a weekend of fellowship, camaraderie, and informational workshops by, for, and about women veterans—and the issues that matter and impact them directly. Preregistration is required; please see the VFW Dept. of PA Website for forms and the tentative agenda, or contact Amy MacKenzie (info below).Final Registration 01/31/2023 (or until sold out)www.vfwpa.org (under the “resources” tab)
This event is organized by the Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of Pennsylvania, with financial contributions from Districts, Posts, Auxiliaries, & Individuals.
Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of PA Women Veterans ChairpersonAmy MacKenzie717.575.3982 quartermaster@ephratavfw.org

Motivating Veterans to Engage in Substance Use Disorder Treatment
2023-03-28 12:30 - 14:00
Motivating Veterans to Engage in Substance Use Disorder Treatment
Tuesday, March 28th, 2023
9:30AM PST – 10:30AM MT – 12:30PM EST
Location:
Virtual Presentation
Presented By:
Alice Maynor, LCSW
Description:
Veterans are a unique population to treat for substance use and mental illness due to their background in the military. After ears of having strict structure, highly stressful career expectations, and rigorous back to back training, Veterans re-entering the civilian world can be a difficult challenge to overcome for most. Because of this, Veterans struggling with substance use disorder and PTSD often enter treatment extremely guarded and/or resistant to treatment, which can lead to them leaving treatment early. Substance abuse and PTSD are complex issues that require consistent care and commitment to healing for any population, but for Veterans, it’s important to understand the barriers that they face on a daily basis and how to help them overcome them.
Register online.

Working With Military Families & Their Unique Behavioral Health Needs
2023-04-13 09:00 - 11:00
This presentation will identify the unique behavioral health needs for military families. It will also provide techniques and interventions for the most effective ways to work with military families and how to support building resiliency.
Thursday, April 13, 2023 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM MDT – Online
Register online

Improving Access to High-Quality Mental Health Care for Veterans
2023-04-20 08:00 - 2023-04-21 17:00
The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine will hold a 1.5 day hybrid (virtual and in-person) public workshop on Improving Access to High-Quality Mental Health Care for Veterans on April 21 and April 22, 2023 to explore the current landscape for mental health care services in the United States, including the use of telehealth services. The workshop will consider ways to improve veterans’ timely access to high-quality care for mental health conditions. In particular, the workshop will consider internal and external best practices for three critical needs for mental health access (known as tripartite access in the VA): urgent/crisis access, engagement access, and sustained access.
Learn more and register online.

Building a Bridge to Veterans: Trust Centered Programs, Mental Health & Moral Injury
2023-04-26 12:00 - 14:00
Building a Bridge to Veterans: Trust Centered Programs, Mental Health & Moral Injury
Wednesday April 26th, 2023
12:00-2:00PM EST
(11am CST • 10am MT • 9am PST)
Location:
Virtual Presentation
Presented By:
Alia Schenck MA, MSW, LCSW-A
Description:
A look at service delivery, important principles of relational building and cultural awareness for Veterans and family members. This class wIll seek to discuss supporting veterans that have unique challenges including Traumatic Brain Injuries IBIs), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), Moral Injury, and combat post-traumatic stress. Finally, we will discuss lessons learned from establishing rapport with trust-centered programs and conducting self-assessment among providers.
Register online.

Delivering Hope Through Building Connections
2023-05-02 08:30 - 15:30
Tuesday, May 2, 2023
8:30 am – 3:30 pm EST
Location:
Soldiers & Sailors, Third Floor Ballroom
4141 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA
Presented By:
Melissa Jenkins-Fernández, Psy.D. Licensed Clinical Psychologist & USAF Veteran
Catherine Markosky, CEO & Founder, STAT, Inc.
Emily Benjamin, MS, Residential Addiction Counselor, St. Joseph Institute
Making personal connections is key to good mental health. Summit BHC Tactical Recovery Team, Mountain Laurel Recovery Center, and St. Joseph Institute for Addiction are teaming up to bring together Mental Health Professionals who serve our military, Veteran and First Responder Communities for this all-day seminar.

Sleeping Our Way to Preventing Suicide
2023-05-31 17:30 - 20:00
AFSP Western PA Research Connection Event with Tina R. Goldstein, Ph.D. and Peter Franzen, Ph.D.

Join us for our Sleeping Our Way to Preventing Suicide: How sleep impacts suicide risk…and what we can do about it research connection event with Dr. Tina Goldstein and Dr. Peter Franzen.
Hear firsthand what researchers are exploring in the world of suicide prevention. This event will feature a presentation followed by a Q&A based conversation, bringing your community together with leaders in the field of suicide prevention research. Light hors d’oeuvres and beverages will be served.
The more we understand about suicide, the more we can prevent it. AFSP-funded research is essential to our mission of saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. Our research funding goes toward studies from neurobiological, psychosocial, and genetic perspectives, as well as topics including clinical treatment, community intervention, and survivors of suicide loss. Our grants help sponsor young investigators, engage senior researchers in suicide prevention, and foster new ideas from suicide researchers at all levels to build a scientific community.

We believe it is important to share our findings to increase public knowledge and awareness. Join us for an AFSP Research Connection Program, where you will have the opportunity to engage in a conversation with a researcher about their work and about suicide prevention.

Learn more at afsp.org/research.

Date: May 31, 2023

Time: 5:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Thomas E. Startzl Biomedical Science Tower, Room S100
200 Darragh St, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Contact Information: Jesse Putkoski, jputkoski@afsp.org

The Landscape of LGBTQ+ Affirming Healthcare in Erie: A Panel Discussion
2023-06-14 11:30 - 13:00
The Landscape of LGBTQ+ Affirming Healthcare in Erie: A Panel Discussion
June 14, 2023 11:30 AM – 1 PM

Blasco Library: 160 E Front St, Erie, PA 16507
Contact us at (814) 454-0843 or sfrigon@eriecommunityfoundation.org
Register online

This is a free event provided by UPMC Western Behavioral Health at Safe Harbor, The LGBT Funds of The Erie Community Foundation, Mercyhurst University and The Hamot Health Foundation.

Historically, the LGBTQ+ community has faced barriers to accessing quality healthcare due to discrimination, stigma, and lack of knowledgeable and welcoming providers. Additionally, many LGBTQ+ people face challenges that increase health risks and can lead to negative health outcomes. Combined, this creates health disparities for LGBTQ+ individuals compared to their cisgender, heterosexual counterparts. This is a concern across countless communities, including here in Erie.
LGBTQ+ affirming healthcare ensures that all individuals have access to high-quality healthcare services, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. It is important for healthcare and social service providers to understand the unique needs of LGBTQ+ individuals. It is equally important for facilities to provide a welcoming, inclusive, and competent environment.
Our panel will discuss the current healthcare landscape for LGBTQ+ individuals in our area and what resources are available.

Learning Objectives for CME/SW/LPC/LMFT Credits:

Identify three core principles of LGBTQ+ affirming healthcare
Review at least five health risks potentially faced by individuals in the LGBTQ+ community
Name at least three barriers to care that may impact LGBTQ+ individuals
Describe the current healthcare landscape for LGBTQ+ individuals in our region, including in primary care, mental health, and substance use settings.
Set an actionable goal to improve LGBTQ+ health for our region.

ACCREDITATION
In support of improving patient care the University of Pittsburgh is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPA), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) to provide continuing education for the health care team.
Physician (CME)
The University of Pittsburgh designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
Social Work (CEU)
Mercyhurst University’s Department of Social Work is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education and is an approved provider of social work, Marriage & Family Therapist and Professional Counselor continuing education by the Pennsylvania State Licensing Board. 1.0 hours of CEUs offered to all attendees.
For CEUs in LSW/LCSW/LMFT/LPC, requirements include attendance for the entire session as verified by Teams attendance records (or sign-in/sign-out sheets for in-person) and completion of a course evaluation that will be provided at the end of the session.
For AMA CME/CNE credit, a code will be provided with further instructions.

A Conversation About Mental Health in the Black Community
2023-07-27 14:00 - 15:00
Please join the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention at 2pm ET on Thursday, July 27, for their upcoming panel, “A Conversation About Mental Health in the Black Community,” at facebook.com/afspnational.

In advance of the launch of AFSP’s new, upcoming suicide prevention education program focused on the Black and African American community, this event will bring together the following panelists for a discussion of mental health and suicide prevention:

Victor Armstrong, MSW (Director, Soul Shop for Black Churches) will moderate this conversation on the impacts of mental health in the community, and strategies to save lives
Doug Middleton (NFL veteran safety and mental health advocate; Dream Yoga owner/founder) on healing from the loss of a friend to suicide
Arielle H. Sheftall, Ph.D. (Youth Suicide Researcher; Associate Professor, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Rochester Medical Center) on the scope of suicide among the Black and African American population and prevention strategies
Sherry Molock Ph.D., M.Div. (Associate Professor of Psychology, The George Washington University; and Pastor, Beloved Community Church, Cincinnati, Ohio) on how mental health can be supported through the faith community
Keon Lewis, MHSA (Lifetime Member, Pi Phi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity; and Board Chair, AFSP North Carolina Chapter) on how awareness, understanding and support can be engaged through chapter networks and other community engagement

We hope you’ll join us for this important and impactful conversation.

Suicide Prevention Alliance 2023 Annual Conference
2023-08-08 08:00 - 2023-08-09 17:00
The 2023 Suicide Prevention Alliance Conference is designed to meet the diverse interests and needs of attendees (mental health professionals, those impacted by suicide (Attempt/Loss Survivors), teachers, LGTBQIA+, Veterans, etc., while creating a powerful opportunity for networking and learning, and developing powerful techniques to prevent suicide in the community.
Join Suicide Prevention Alliance as we welcome Congresswoman Susan Wild and Dr. David A. Jobes as our Keynote Speakers for our inaugural conference.
Dates and Location:
August 8th and 9th
Best Western Premier, Harrisburg, PA
Learn more, register on the conference website.

Viewing and Panel Discussion of My Ascension
2023-09-19 17:00 - 19:30
Join us for a viewing of My Ascension followed by a panel discussion.
At 16 years old Emma Benoit attempted to end her life. Through navigating the challenges of recovery, she discovers purpose and passion in helping other struggling teens. My Ascension is the story of the day that changed Emma’s life, and everything that’s happened since.
When: September 19, 2022 at 5:00pm
Where: Succop Theater
Butler County Community College
107 College Dr, Butler, PA 16002
Presented by the Butler County Suicide Coalition, Butler VA Health Systems, Clearfield-Jefferson Suicide Prevention Team, and BC3
No reservations necessary! Representatives from the NW PA Veteran Suicide Prevention Program will have an informational table at this event. Please stop by and say hello!

2023 VISN 4 Community Mental Health Summit - Outside The Box
2023-09-22 09:00 - 16:00
VISN 4 Community Mental Health Summit Outside the Box-Alternative Treatment Methods
Hosted by Local Recovery Coordinators – Coatesville, Lebanon, Wilmington and Butler VA
Friday, September 22 · 9am – 4pm EDT, online

Agenda Includes: MDMA assisted therapy, rTMS, Ketamine treatment, Peer perspective of VA MH care, CBT-Psychosis and more
* Registration will be open until 9/15/23 @4pm and there is a maximum capacity of 360 attendees for this event.

Erie County Suicide Prevention Conference 2023
2023-09-27 08:00 - 17:00
Erie County Suicide Prevention Conference 2023
Date and time: Wednesday, September 27 · 8am – 4:45pm EDT

Location: Ambassador Hotel and Conference Center, 7794 Peach St Erie, PA 16509
Register online.

About this event

“A Public Health Approach to Suicide Prevention: Recognizing and Supporting All Areas of Our Lives (based on the CDC’s Seven Suicide Prevention Strategies).”
Our Keynote Speaker, Matt Dorgan, was born and raised in York, Pennsylvania. It was after the loss of his daughter Brianna to suicide, December 3, 2020 that Matt decided that things need to change. Matt wanted to channel his grief into something positive for the community so others would not have to suffer the way Brianna suffered and so other parents would not have to suffer the grief of having to bury a child. In January 2021, Matt started putting together an awareness and fundraising event called Building Bridges for Brianna. After several weeks Matt decided we need to build the bridge between people that need help and people that can provide help. That was when Matt realized that this cannot be an event, it needs to be a movement and expanded the organization to reach as many people as he can.
Other speakers represent various agencies and resources within the Erie community and serve to build a foundation for support, intervention and suicide prevention in our own community.
Program Schedule:
Registration/Check-In : 8:00am-8:45amWelcome, Introductions & Keynote: 8:45am -10:15amBREAK: 10:15am-10:30am
Breakout Session 1 (will be selected on day of conference):11:00am – 12:00 pm
OPTION 1A : “988 and Collaboration with Law Enforcement in Erie County” :Stacey Buettner & Tracy Carlini
OPTION 1B : “Harm Reduction”: Cortney Elliot, Sarah Suhan, and Shannon Brown
OPTION 1C: “Heroes Need Help Too”: Robin Archer and Pensiri Nuk Kongkaw-Oden
LUNCH BUFFET (INC. WITH REGISTRATION):11:45am -12:45pmSurvivor Panel Discussion: 12:45pm -1:45pmBREAK: 1:45pm – 2:00pm
Breakout 2: 2:00pm – 3:15pm
OPTION 2a – “Suicide in a Chaotic World” – Govan MartinOPTION 2b – “We are Human, Not Broken”- Kevin Berceli, LPC, NCC, CPH, CP-TRE, CP-NLPOPTION 2c – “Parenting Skills to Improve Family Relations” – NAMIBREAK: 3:15pm – 3:30pm
Breakout Session 3: 3:30pm – 4:45pm
OPTION 3a – “Examining the Connections Between Substance Use and Risk Behaviors and Suicidal Ideations / Actions” – Dr. Amy Gallaher-Miles, DO, IBCLCOPTION 3b – “Assessing Suicidality/High Risk Among the Perinatal Population” – Diomarys Nunez, LPC
Continuing Education Information
Certificates will be sent out via email – Total CE 5 hours
Contact Zachary Cathcart at cathcartz@upmc.edu with questions about continuing education information for this event.
CEUs will be available for LSW/LCSW/LMFT, ACT 48, ANCC/AMA, EMS
Scholarship Information:Please note there are a limited number of scholarships available, made possible by a generous donation from Erie County Department of Health and Human Services. Anyone with financial need is encouraged to attend. Interested individuals may reach out to Sharon Sandberg at sandbergs@upmc.edu or 814-835-2953.
We strongly encourage anyone interested in a scholarship to apply by preparing a one page essay detailing why it is important for you to attend this conference and the importance of community suicide prevention. Essays can be emailed directly to Sharon Sandberg at sandbergs@upmc.edu.

ACORN: An Overview of a VHA Social Risk Screening and Social Needs Referral Initiative
2024-01-10 12:00 - 13:00
Focus on Health Equity and Action Cyberseminar Series
Upcoming Session:
Wednesday, January 10, 2024
12PM – 1PM (ET)
Learn More About the Session
Register
Title: Assessing Circumstances and Offering Resources for Needs (ACORN): An Overview of a VHA Social Risk Screening and Social Needs Referral Initiative
Description:
Hospitals and health systems, including the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), are increasingly working to identify patients’ social risks and address social needs as part of clinical care. Assessing Circumstances and Offering Resources for Needs (ACORN) is a VHA social risk screening and referral program that aims to identify and address unmet social needs among all Veterans to improve health outcomes and advance health equity. This session will provide an overview of ACORN, including background on the development of the initiative, information about the ACORN Dashboard, and research and clinical implications.
Presenters:
Alicia Cohen, MD, MSc (she | hers)

Core Investigator, VA HSR&D Center of Innovation in Long Term Services and Supports (LTSS-COIN)
Primary Care Physician, Women’s Health Clinic and Homeless Clinic, VA Providence Healthcare System
Co-lead, VHA Assessing Circumstances and Offering Resources for Needs (ACORN) Initiative
Assistant Professor of Family Medicine and Health Services, Policy, and Practice, Brown University Medical School and School of Public Health

Sarah Leder, MSW (she | hers)

Health Systems Specialist, Office of Health Equity
Specialist, VHA Assessing Circumstances and Offering Resources for Needs (ACORN) Dashboard, Data, and Evaluation Team
Lauren Russell, MPH, MPP (she | hers)
Social Determinants of Health Lead and Health System Specialist, VHA Office of Health Equity
Co-lead, VHA Assessing Circumstances and Offering Resources for Needs (ACORN) Initiative

Intended audience:
Researchers, clinicians, care coordinators, policy makers, educators, data analysts, Veteran stakeholders and representatives of vulnerable Veteran groups who are interested in understanding and/or promoting equitable health among all Veterans.

Past Sessions
Use the following links, or continue reading on this page, for information on:

About the Focus on Health Equity and Action Cyberseminars
The VHA Office of Health Equity (OHE) in partnership with the VA Health Services Research and Development (HSR&D) launched the Focus on Health Equity and Action Cyberseminars. Each cyberseminar spotlights activities that promote the implementation of the VHA Health Equity Action Plan (HEAP), and aims to:

Catalyze, synergize, and coordinate VHA programs, projects, and initiatives to effectively identify, understand, seek and implement solutions to diminish and where possible eliminate health disparities;
Demonstrate alignment with other federal partners working to achieve health equity;
Bring focus to VHA efforts to provide a more equitable, individualized and patient-driven health care delivery system;
Improve overall quality of care through equity in all policies and the achievement of health equity for all;
Incorporate the innovative ideas and input of all users in order to encourage a bottom up approach while maintaining a strong connection to the overarching goals of the VA;
Capitalize on the existing network of advocates and programs in both administrative and clinical realms to weave health equity dialogue and cultural attunement into training and other activities within and outside the health care system; and
Serve as a guide and/or starting place that would remain a living document which is open to modification and adaptation to continuously meet the needs of the Veterans entrusted to the VHA.
