The Resilient Veteran

QPR for Clearfield and Jefferson Counties
2023-10-11 10:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York)
QPR for Clearfield and Jefferson Counties
HELP PREVENT SUICIDE
Suicide prevention training webinars aim to save lives. Learn steps you can take to save a life and reduce suicidal behaviors in your community. Question, Persuade and Refer is an emergency health intervention program designed to give you practical tools and techniques to address and prevent suicide. Gain insights to recognize warning signs of suicide in friends, coworkers, family members or neighbors in need. Anyone concerned about helping others may participate in QPR. Discuss potential scenarios and engage active listening and persuasion techniques.
WEBINAR SCHEDULE
Plan to attend one of these 2-hour webinars to learn how to identify and interrupt a crisis and to direct someone to proper care.
+ 10 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 11
+ 1 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 26
+ 10 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 2
+ 1 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 7
+ 1 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8
+ 10 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 13
REGISTER AT:
extension.psu.edu/qpr-clearfield-jefferson
Once registered, you will receive a link to access the webinar.
Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences research and extension programs are funded in part by Pennsylvania counties, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The Pennsylvania State University encourages qualified persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the physical access provided, please contact Penn State Extension at 1-877-345-0691 in advance of your participation or visit.
Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
Code 6728 | U.Ed. AGR 23-42 | Rev.25C07/23mpc

QPR Training
2023-10-11 11:00 - 13:00, 2023-10-24 13:00 - 15:00, 2023-11-08 09:00 - 11:00
QPR is a two-hour educational program designed to teach professionals as well as lay “gatekeepers” the warning signs of a suicide crisis and how to respond. A gatekeeper is someone in a position to recognize a crisis and warning signs that someone may be at risk of suicide.
Pennsylvania suicide rates, especially in rural counties, are higher than the national average. QPR is a two-hour educational program designed to teach professionals as well as lay “gatekeepers” the warning signs of a suicide crisis and how to respond. A gatekeeper is an individual who can recognize a crisis and the warning signs of someone possibly contemplating suicide. Anyone can become a gatekeeper: parents. friends, neighbors, teachers, athletic coaches, ministers, doctors, nurses, office supervisors, squad leaders, foremen, police officers, advisors, caseworkers, firefighters, etc. Gatekeepers come from all walks of life and do not require any prior training or education.
Click on the image to download. You can access the registration online. Please contact us if you experience challenges with registration.
We look forward to meeting you at an upcoming training session!

QPR + CALM Training
2023-10-18 09:00 - 12:00, 2023-10-23 13:00 - 16:00, 2023-11-10 12:00 - 15:00, 2024-01-25 13:00 - 16:00, 2024-01-29 09:00 - 13:00
QPR is a two-hour educational program designed to teach professionals as well as lay “gatekeepers” the warning signs of a suicide crisis and how to respond. A gatekeeper is someone in a position to recognize a crisis and warning signs that someone may be at risk of suicide.
This date also offers a 1-hour Counseling on Access to Lethal Means Training (CALM) directly after the QPR sessions. You can opt-in to one or both trainings.
Pennsylvania suicide rates, especially in rural counties, are higher than the national average. QPR is a two-hour educational program designed to teach professionals as well as lay “gatekeepers” the warning signs of a suicide crisis and how to respond. A gatekeeper is an individual who can recognize a crisis and the warning signs of someone possibly contemplating suicide. Anyone can become a gatekeeper: parents. friends, neighbors, teachers, athletic coaches, ministers, doctors, nurses, office supervisors, squad leaders, foremen, police officers, advisors, caseworkers, firefighters, etc. Gatekeepers come from all walks of life and do not require any prior training or education.
Click on the image to download. You can access the registration online. Please contact us if you experience challenges with registration.
We look forward to meeting you at an upcoming training session!

Mental Health Awareness & Suicide Prevention for Veterans
2023-10-20 08:30 - 15:00
Serving those Who Served Us! Mental Health Awareness & Suicide Prevention for Veterans Hybrid Training
Friday, October 20, 2023
8am to 8:30am Registration & Continental Breakfast
8:30am to 3pm Training
Lunch provided for In-person attendees
QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) Gatekeeper Training for Veteran’s Suicide Prevention: Presenter Patti Tanner, MA Senior Program Implementation Specialist, PERU, Veteran.
Moral Injury, education on its prevalence among service members, common precipitating events, health outcomes, and treatment options.
Presenter: Sheena Bice, CCO, Forge Health, Veteran
Science of Trauma, Going through biology of the brain and body when dealing with extreme levels of stress. Presenter: Sheena Bice, CCO, Forge Health, Veteran.
A family member’s perspective, Brittany Reonason. Her husband was a veteran and died by suicide.
Veteran’s Panel Discussion

Credits:
CEUs for AMA (Physician), ACPE (Pharmacy), ANCC (Nursing), and ASWB (Social Work).

QPR for Clearfield and Jefferson Counties
2023-10-26 13:00 - 15:00
QPR for Clearfield and Jefferson Counties
HELP PREVENT SUICIDE
Suicide prevention training webinars aim to save lives. Learn steps you can take to save a life and reduce suicidal behaviors in your community. Question, Persuade and Refer is an emergency health intervention program designed to give you practical tools and techniques to address and prevent suicide. Gain insights to recognize warning signs of suicide in friends, coworkers, family members or neighbors in need. Anyone concerned about helping others may participate in QPR. Discuss potential scenarios and engage active listening and persuasion techniques.
WEBINAR SCHEDULE
Plan to attend one of these 2-hour webinars to learn how to identify and interrupt a crisis and to direct someone to proper care.
+ 1 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 26
+ 10 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 2
+ 1 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 7
+ 1 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8
+ 10 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 13
REGISTER AT:
extension.psu.edu/qpr-clearfield-jefferson
Once registered, you will receive a link to access the webinar.
Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences research and extension programs are funded in part by Pennsylvania counties, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The Pennsylvania State University encourages qualified persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the physical access provided, please contact Penn State Extension at 1-877-345-0691 in advance of your participation or visit.
Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
Code 6728 | U.Ed. AGR 23-42 | Rev.25C07/23mpc

QPR for Clearfield and Jefferson Counties
2023-11-02 10:00 - 12:00
QPR for Clearfield and Jefferson Counties
HELP PREVENT SUICIDE
Suicide prevention training webinars aim to save lives. Learn steps you can take to save a life and reduce suicidal behaviors in your community. Question, Persuade and Refer is an emergency health intervention program designed to give you practical tools and techniques to address and prevent suicide. Gain insights to recognize warning signs of suicide in friends, coworkers, family members or neighbors in need. Anyone concerned about helping others may participate in QPR. Discuss potential scenarios and engage active listening and persuasion techniques.
WEBINAR SCHEDULE
Plan to attend one of these 2-hour webinars to learn how to identify and interrupt a crisis and to direct someone to proper care.
+ 10 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 2
+ 1 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 7
+ 1 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8
+ 10 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 13
REGISTER AT:
extension.psu.edu/qpr-clearfield-jefferson
Once registered, you will receive a link to access the webinar.
Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences research and extension programs are funded in part by Pennsylvania counties, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The Pennsylvania State University encourages qualified persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the physical access provided, please contact Penn State Extension at 1-877-345-0691 in advance of your participation or visit.
Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
Code 6728 | U.Ed. AGR 23-42 | Rev.25C07/23mpc

QPR for Clearfield and Jefferson Counties
2023-11-07 13:00 - 15:00
QPR for Clearfield and Jefferson Counties
HELP PREVENT SUICIDE
Suicide prevention training webinars aim to save lives. Learn steps you can take to save a life and reduce suicidal behaviors in your community. Question, Persuade and Refer is an emergency health intervention program designed to give you practical tools and techniques to address and prevent suicide. Gain insights to recognize warning signs of suicide in friends, coworkers, family members or neighbors in need. Anyone concerned about helping others may participate in QPR. Discuss potential scenarios and engage active listening and persuasion techniques.
WEBINAR SCHEDULE
Plan to attend one of these 2-hour webinars to learn how to identify and interrupt a crisis and to direct someone to proper care.
+ 1 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 7
+ 1 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8
+ 10 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 13
REGISTER AT:
extension.psu.edu/qpr-clearfield-jefferson
Once registered, you will receive a link to access the webinar.
Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences research and extension programs are funded in part by Pennsylvania counties, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The Pennsylvania State University encourages qualified persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the physical access provided, please contact Penn State Extension at 1-877-345-0691 in advance of your participation or visit.
Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
Code 6728 | U.Ed. AGR 23-42 | Rev.25C07/23mpc

988 Formative Research: Messaging and Communications about 988 to People at Higher Risk for or Disproportionately Impacted by Suicide
2023-11-07 14:30 - 15:30
Date & Time: Nov 7, 2023 02:30 PM
Register online

This webinar will preview findings of the 988 Formative Research. These findings can help form the basis of future culturally sensitive, responsive, effective, and successful 988 communications: First, to make more people aware of 988 across the country, and then to instill trust and confidence in the service so people will contact 988 when struggling with mental health, or in a moment of crisis, or in need of support. The webinar will also preview resources developed by the project that can support behavioral health agencies and service providers’ communication efforts to increase awareness and use of 988 in their communities.

With the nationwide transition to 988 as the 3-digit number for 24/7 support for anyone experiencing a mental health crisis or emotional distress, a need arose for 988-specific formative research among groups at higher risk for or disproportionately impacted by suicide. The 988 Formative Research Project began in summer 2022 as a collaborative effort led by the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention (Action Alliance), the Suicide Prevention Resource Center (SPRC), and the Ad Council Research Institute (ACRI), supported by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

The project fills a critical research gap and supports more informed 988 messaging and implementation efforts. Learning Objectives:
• Learn about key findings from the 988 Formative Research.
• Learn how this research can support communication efforts to increase awareness and use of 988 among groups at higher risk for or disproportionately impacted by suicide.

Addressing Chronic Pain In The Veteran Community
2023-11-13 19:00 - 20:00
Webinar Date: Nov. 13, 2023, 7 p.m.
Questions? Contact Adeline Hatfield, at 330-571-1348 or email adeline@militaryvetsofamerica.org
Join Military Veterans of America for our webinar with health specialist Dr. Shenika Vilton, MD. She will discuss the latest advancements in the treatment of chronic pain, offering insights into both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches. We will also shed light on the importance of health advocacy for veterans and discuss strategies to improve access to pain management resources, reduce stigma, and foster a supportive environment for our veterans.
Register online.

QPR for Clearfield and Jefferson Counties
2023-12-08 13:00 - 15:00
QPR for Clearfield and Jefferson Counties
HELP PREVENT SUICIDE
Suicide prevention training webinars aim to save lives. Learn steps you can take to save a life and reduce suicidal behaviors in your community. Question, Persuade and Refer is an emergency health intervention program designed to give you practical tools and techniques to address and prevent suicide. Gain insights to recognize warning signs of suicide in friends, coworkers, family members or neighbors in need. Anyone concerned about helping others may participate in QPR. Discuss potential scenarios and engage active listening and persuasion techniques.
WEBINAR SCHEDULE
Plan to attend one of these 2-hour webinars to learn how to identify and interrupt a crisis and to direct someone to proper care.
+ 1 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8
+ 10 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 13
REGISTER AT:
extension.psu.edu/qpr-clearfield-jefferson
Once registered, you will receive a link to access the webinar.
Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences research and extension programs are funded in part by Pennsylvania counties, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The Pennsylvania State University encourages qualified persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the physical access provided, please contact Penn State Extension at 1-877-345-0691 in advance of your participation or visit.
Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
Code 6728 | U.Ed. AGR 23-42 | Rev.25C07/23mpc

INTEGRATING TRAUMA INFORMED CARE INTO SUICIDE RESPONSE (ITIC)
2023-12-11 10:00 - 11:00, 2024-01-17 11:00 - 12:00
INTEGRATING TRAUMA INFORMED CARE INTO SUICIDE RESPONSE (ITIC)
Suicide Prevention Training
The Integrating Trauma Informed Care into Suicide Response course will describe the role of trauma in both risk for suicide behaviors and in coping with suicide loss. It is a one-hour virtual training primarily designed for those who work with people at risk for suicide, such as health care providers and social service professionals.
The curriculum covers the role of trauma in suicide risk, the SAMHSA principles of trauma informed care, as well as specific trauma informed strategies to utilize with survivors of suicide.
Trainings are open to anyone and will be delivered virtually, via Zoom.
Funded by the CDC’s Division of Injury Prevention
Call: 878-208-8186
Email: pag109@pitt.edu
SIGN-UP TODAY!
https://tinyurl.com/4p6kamf7
Upcoming ITIC Training Sessions:
• Monday, December 11th , 2023 from 10:00-11:00 AM
• Wednesday, January 17th , 2024 from 11:00AM-12:00 PM

Butler County Mental Health First Aid Training
2023-12-13 08:30 - 16:30
Free youth and adult in-person mental health first aid training courses available to those living/working in Butler County.
The in-person training is an 8-hour program held at the UL Conference Room at the Butler County Human Services Building (directions to be sent out once registration is closed).
To register for training, please email Lena Southworth at lsouthworth@ccrinfo.org and Samantha Hite at shite@ccrinfo.org
In Person Adult Mental Health First Aid Class Options:
Wednesday, December 13, 2023, from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
Registration deadline: Friday, December 1, 2023
OR
Tuesday, March 19th, 2024, from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
Registration deadline: Friday, March 8, 2024
In Person Youth Mental Health First Aid:
Tuesday February 6, 2024, from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
Registration deadline: Friday, January 26, 2024
AFTER THE COURSE, YOU’LL BE ABLE TO:
• Recognize common signs and symptoms of mental health challenges.
• Recognize common signs and symptoms of substance use challenges.
• Understand how to interact with a person in crisis.
• Know how to connect a person with help.
• Use self-care tools and techniques

QPR for Clearfield and Jefferson Counties
2023-12-13 10:00 - 12:00
QPR for Clearfield and Jefferson Counties
HELP PREVENT SUICIDE
Suicide prevention training webinars aim to save lives. Learn steps you can take to save a life and reduce suicidal behaviors in your community. Question, Persuade and Refer is an emergency health intervention program designed to give you practical tools and techniques to address and prevent suicide. Gain insights to recognize warning signs of suicide in friends, coworkers, family members or neighbors in need. Anyone concerned about helping others may participate in QPR. Discuss potential scenarios and engage active listening and persuasion techniques.
WEBINAR SCHEDULE
Plan to attend this 2-hour webinar to learn how to identify and interrupt a crisis and to direct someone to proper care.
+ 10 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 13
REGISTER AT:
extension.psu.edu/qpr-clearfield-jefferson
Once registered, you will receive a link to access the webinar.
Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences research and extension programs are funded in part by Pennsylvania counties, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The Pennsylvania State University encourages qualified persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the physical access provided, please contact Penn State Extension at 1-877-345-0691 in advance of your participation or visit.
Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
Code 6728 | U.Ed. AGR 23-42 | Rev.25C07/23mpc

Safety Plan for Suicide Prevention Training
2023-12-13 12:00 - 13:00
Tech Into Care – VA’s Newest App: Safety Plan for Suicide Prevention
Program Description:
This lecture will focus on describing the efforts to develop and test digital interventions for PTSD that integrate elements of exposure therapy. Also, this activity will address findings from three clinical trials that will be shared on web-based and mobile app interventions for PTSD in Veterans with PTSD.
Date: Dec. 13 at noon ET
Location: VHA TRAIN
Access Links: Non-VA employees click here. VA employees click here.
Audience: Psychologists, nurses, social workers, mental health counselors, psychiatrists, dietitians and physicians
Modality: Virtual conference (webinar)
Credit/hours: 1
Accreditations: ACCME, ACCME-NP, ANCC, APA, ASWB, CDR, JAIPCE, NBCC, NYSED-P, NYSED-SW
Questions?: If you require assistance, please contact the VHA TRAIN Help Desk by email at VHATRAIN@va.gov.

Empowering the Behavioral Health Workforce to Meet the Needs of Service Members, Veterans, and their Families
2023-12-21 14:00 - 15:30
Empowering the Behavioral Health Workforce to Meet the Needs of Service Members, Veterans, and their Families
The behavioral health workforce shortage throughout the United States is well documented. At the same time, there is a growing demand for military culturally responsive services for service members, Veterans, and their families (SMVF). This learning community will examine strategies to strengthen and empower the behavioral health workforce to meet the unique needs of SMVF.
The learning community will meet monthly beginning in December 2023 via Zoom. Each session will feature both expert presentations and group discussions.

Session 1: Advancing Military Spouse License Portability

Date: December 21, 2023Time: 2:00–3:30 p.m. ET
Register Online

Learning Objectives

Review the Military Spouse Licensing Relief Act and the advancement of interstate compacts for licensed professional counselors
Describe barriers and opportunities for military spouses
Identify resources for military spouses in the behavioral health workforce

Presenter

Kelly Hruska, Director of Government Relations, National Military Family Association

Session 2: Expanding Faith-Based Partnerships

Date: January 18, 2024Time: 2:00–3:30 p.m. ET
Register Online

Learning Objectives

Illustrate the vital role of faith communities in supporting the behavioral health needs of SMVF
Highlight a state example of faith-based partnerships positively impacting the lives of SMVF experiencing substance use or mental health conditions
Discover resources and programs for faith-based initiatives

Presenter

Monty Burks, Deputy Director, Tennessee Governor’s Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives

Session 3: Educating Civilian Providers

Date: February 22, 2024Time: 2:00–3:30 p.m. ET
Register Online

Learning Objectives

Demonstrate the critical need for civilian providers to be military-culturally responsive and aware of unique risk and protective factors for SMVF in their care
Identify training opportunities for civilian providers to increase their knowledge and readiness to serve SMVF
Highlight opportunities to demonstrate an organization’s commitment and readiness to serve SMVF

Presenter

Jenna Pryor, Vice President of Implementation, Learning & Evaluation, PsychArmor

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.

An Environmental Scan of Suicide Prevention Resources for Older Veterans in Primary Care
2024-01-10 14:00 - 15:30
January 10, 2024 @ 2:00PM ET
Presenters: Jennifer L. Sullivan, PhD and Kelly O’Malley, PhD
Previous research has identified the critical role of primary care in suicide prevention. Although several suicide prevention resources for primary care already exist, it is unclear how many have been created specifically for older Veterans. This environmental scan sought to assemble a compendium of suicide prevention resources to be utilized in primary care. Jenny Sullivan, PhD, and Kelly O’Malley, PhD will share how providers can bridge the knowledge gap when it comes to suicide risk management for older Veterans seen in primary care.
Following this live webinar, participants will be able to:

Describe suicide prevention in Primary Care
Discuss available resources identified in an environmental scan
Identify clinical implications and future research

Learn more and register online.

Supporting Evidence-Based Practice Implementation In Settings Serving Veterans Who Have Experienced Homelessness
2024-01-17 13:00 - 14:00
Wednesday, January 17, 2024: 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. EST
Presented by VA’s Homeless Programs Office, National Center on Homelessness among Veterans, in collaboration with VHA’s Institute for Learning, Education and Development (ILEAD)
Audience: Participants may include but are not limited to physicians, nurses, dentists, psychologists, social workers, counselors, case managers, housing specialists, peer specialists, occupational therapy practitioners, team leaders, supervisors, Network Homeless Coordinators, staff working in VA’s homeless programs and all professionals supporting Veterans experiencing housing insecurity.
Modality: Virtual conference (webinar)
Credit/hours: 1
Accreditations: ACCME, ACCME-NP, ANCC, APA, ASWB, NBCC, ADA, NYSED, SW, AOTA, CRCC
Overview:
The purpose of this live, virtual, knowledge-based session is to describe strategies that support the implementation of evidence-based practices in settings serving homeless Veterans, using the case example of a national initiative to implement Critical Time Intervention (CTI) in 32 VA Grant and Per Diem (GPD) case management sites. This project was funded by the VA Quality Enhancement Research Initiative (QUERI).
Ending Veteran homelessness is an urgent national priority. By investing in robust health and housing services for homeless-experienced Veterans (HEVs), the VA has made tremendous strides in addressing Veteran homelessness. Veterans who remain homeless despite these services are extraordinarily vulnerable; at present, 41% of HEVs are unsheltered, living on the streets, in abandoned buildings, or other places not intended for human habitation. To further VA’s goal of ending Veteran homelessness, there is a pressing need to identify effective practices that support the scale up, spread, and sustainment of evidence-based practices (EBPs) across the broad range of VA services and community-based organizations that serve HEVs.
One such service is VA’s GPD program, which is considered a cornerstone of VA’s strategic plan to end Veteran homelessness. Operated by VA’s community partners, this program provides long-term (up to 24 months) transitional housing and supportive services for HEVs. Many HEVs transition from GPD sites into independent housing, but GPD case management ceases at the transition out of GPD sites, leaving many HEVs without support. Several years ago, Congress required VA to address this quality gap; in March 2019, VA awarded $30 million to 128 GPD sites to provide 6 months of case management (known as the GPD case management program) for HEVs transitioning to independent living and not otherwise receiving case management.
At present, no specific case management paradigm is required in the GPD case management program, resulting in significant practice variation across sites. If implemented nationally, Critical Time Intervention—an evidence-based, structured, and time-limited case management model—would standardize and improve case management delivered in the GPD case management program. However, very few GPD case management staff have prior experience delivering EBPs or engaging in agency wide EBP implementation. Partnered with the GPD National Program Office, our team is implementing Critical Time Intervention in 32 GPD case management sites, supported by a robust training and technical assistance program. Half of these sites also receive “coaching,” or tailored support for providers and leaders in their efforts to adopt and incorporate EBPs into their routine care processes.
This session will share our experiences with implementing Critical Time Intervention, as a case example that describes potential supports for EBP implementation in settings that serve HEVs. We will highlight lessons learned from this implementation initiative and engage with the audience to discuss ways to support the implementation of other EBPs in VA and community-partnered contexts that work with HEVs.
Learning Objectives:
At the conclusion of this educational program, learners will be able to:

Describe challenges to evidence-based practice implementation in settings serving homeless Veterans.
Identify strategies used to support the implementation of Critical Time Intervention in VA Grant and Per Diem case management programs.
Apply lessons learned from the implementation of Critical Time Intervention to bolster other evidence-based practice implementation efforts in VA homeless programs.

Registration: To receive credit for attending, VA employees need to register in TMS before the training begins:
To find a course when logging into TMS:
Go to Learning, scroll down to My Learning, type in Course # and Title
VA 131011449 Supporting Evidence-Based Practice Implementation In Settings Serving Veterans Who Have Experienced Homelessness
Be sure to click Register Now rather than Assign to Me or Start Course
If you are external to the VA or Non VA staff you must have a registered TRAIN account AND register for this training in TRAIN PRIOR to commencing training, failure to do so will result in CEUs not being awarded.
If you do not have a TRAIN account please click the link: https://vha.train.org.
VA staff register here
Non-VA staff Register here
*Note The Non-VA staff registration link is currently unavailable. Non-VA staff will be able to register when the TRAIN registration link is active.
For questions with TMS and TRAIN registration, please contact clarice.lewis@va.gov or lee.furry@va.gov
For audio, please use computer and connect audio through the TEAMS speakers.
For more information on education opportunities, please email Derrick Crowley, Management Analyst, Derrick.crowley@va.gov
The National Center on Homelessness among Veterans promotes the development of policy and practice that targets ending and preventing Veteran homelessness through supporting the implementation of relevant research findings into clinical practice, providing education and training for VA and community partners, disseminating evidence-based and emerging best practices and developing new empirical knowledge.
To learn more, visit: http://www.va.gov/homeless/nchav/

Empowering the Behavioral Health Workforce to Meet the Needs of Service Members, Veterans, and their Families
2024-01-18 14:00 - 15:30
Empowering the Behavioral Health Workforce to Meet the Needs of Service Members, Veterans, and their Families
The behavioral health workforce shortage throughout the United States is well documented. At the same time, there is a growing demand for military culturally responsive services for service members, Veterans, and their families (SMVF). This learning community will examine strategies to strengthen and empower the behavioral health workforce to meet the unique needs of SMVF.
The learning community will meet monthly beginning in December 2023 via Zoom. Each session will feature both expert presentations and group discussions.

Session 2: Expanding Faith-Based Partnerships

Date: January 18, 2024Time: 2:00–3:30 p.m. ET
Register Online

Learning Objectives

Illustrate the vital role of faith communities in supporting the behavioral health needs of SMVF
Highlight a state example of faith-based partnerships positively impacting the lives of SMVF experiencing substance use or mental health conditions
Discover resources and programs for faith-based initiatives

Presenter

Monty Burks, Deputy Director, Tennessee Governor’s Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives

Session 3: Educating Civilian Providers

Date: February 22, 2024Time: 2:00–3:30 p.m. ET
Register Online

Learning Objectives

Demonstrate the critical need for civilian providers to be military-culturally responsive and aware of unique risk and protective factors for SMVF in their care
Identify training opportunities for civilian providers to increase their knowledge and readiness to serve SMVF
Highlight opportunities to demonstrate an organization’s commitment and readiness to serve SMVF

Presenter

Jenna Pryor, Vice President of Implementation, Learning & Evaluation, PsychArmor

Mental Health America of Southwestern PA's Virtual Annual Conference
2024-01-26 08:30 - 15:30
Mental Health America of Southwestern PA’s (MHA-SWPA) Virtual Annual Conference is quickly approaching!
Our virtual conference this year is entitled Perspectives: Cultivating a Lifetime of Mental Wellness, and will address current issues across the lifespan, concerning both adult and youth populations. Register online.
Through the annual conference, MHA-SWPA continues to provide opportunities for professional growth, with expert speakers on compelling topics regarding behavioral health and wellness. Our target audience is Mental Health Professionals, Counselors, Social Workers, LPCs, Nurses, Peer Specialists, Certified Recovery Specialists and Community Members.
Cost to attend is $39.00 if registering by December 15th, but if you work at an MHA, you may register at half that cost by using the Promo Code MHACONF50.
Student discounts are available, as are scholarships for those with lived experience. Email conference@mhaswpa.org for details.
Through the generous support of our sponsors, MHA-SWPA continues to provide opportunities for professional growth, with expert speakers on compelling topics regarding behavioral health and wellness.
Check out the registration booklet to choose your workshops, then register below, indicating professional license type if applicable.
A special note of thanks to Premier Co-Sponsors UPMC Health Plan and UPMC | Community Care Behavioral Health Organization for providing their generous support in a variety of ways including hosting the conference platform.

ASIST Training in Pittsburgh
2024-01-30 08:00 - 2024-01-31 16:00
ASIST Training: Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training
January 30-31, 2024 8 AM – 4 PM (both days)
Hosted by: Veterans Leadership Program
2934 Smallman Street, Pittsburgh, PA
Cost: FREE
Learn the skills. Suicide is Preventable. Help save a life.
** Free CEUs will be provided in EMS/LSW/LPC/LMFT from UPMC.
Questions? Call 878-208-8186 or email pag109@pitt.edu
Register using the QR code or https://rb.gy/j4oea
ASIST is a two-day, highly participatory workshop in which participants learn to use a suicide intervention model to identify individuals with thoughts of suicide, seek a shared understanding of reasons for dying and living, develop a safety plan based upon a review of risk, and learn how to provide active follow-up.

Recognize that caregivers and persons at risk are affected by personal and societal attitudes about suicide.
Discuss suicide in a direct manner with someone at risk.
Identify risk alerts and develop related safety plans.
Demonstrate the skills required to intervene with a person at risk of suicide.
List the types of resources available to a person at risk, including themselves.
Make a commitment to improving community resources.
Recognize that suicide prevention is broader than suicide first-aid and includes life promotion and self-care for caregivers.

Treating Comorbid PTSD and Substance Use Disorder
2024-01-30 12:00 - 13:30
Treating Comorbid PTSD and Substance Use Disorder
January 30, 2024
9:00-10:30 am Pacific
10am MT – 11am CT – 12pm ET
Location:
Virtual location
You will receive a confirmation email with a URL.
Register online
Presented by:
Sonya B. Norman, PhD
Description:
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) rarely occurs on its own yet comorbid conditions can complicate treatment and impact treatment outcomes. In this lecture, we will learn about two common co-occurring conditions. We will discuss the comorbidity of PTSD and substance use disorder (SUD). SUD is one of the most prevalent comorbidities among those with PTSD. Topics will include why these two disorders often co-occur and how those who have both differ from those who have either PTSD or SUD in terms of their physical and mental health and treatment outcomes. We will review research on how to effectively treat those who have both PTSD and SUD. The focus of the lecture will be on clinical strategies to use when treating clients who have PTSD+SUD.
More Information Contact:
Organizer: Katie Stenger, (716) 673-5017

Butler County Youth Mental Health First Aid Training
2024-02-06 08:30 - 16:30
Free youth and adult in-person mental health first aid training courses available to those living/working in Butler County.
The in-person training is an 8-hour program held at the UL Conference Room at the Butler County Human Services Building (directions to be sent out once registration is closed).
To register for training, please email Lena Southworth at lsouthworth@ccrinfo.org and Samantha Hite at shite@ccrinfo.org
In Person Youth Mental Health First Aid:
Tuesday February 6, 2024, from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
Registration deadline: Friday, January 26, 2024
In Person Adult Mental Health First Aid Class Options:
Tuesday, March 19th, 2024, from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
Registration deadline: Friday, March 8, 2024
AFTER THE COURSE, YOU’LL BE ABLE TO:
• Recognize common signs and symptoms of mental health challenges.
• Recognize common signs and symptoms of substance use challenges.
• Understand how to interact with a person in crisis.
• Know how to connect a person with help.
• Use self-care tools and techniques
