Tuesday, October 2 • 10:15 am – 11:45 am
Tracks: BO, CO, HR, LD
WO1 | Avoiding Workplace Harassment: Preparation, Prevention, and Correction
Michael Cohen, JD | Duane Morris LLP
Room: Crystal A
In the first Avoiding Workplace Harassment session, we talked about inappropriate behaviors, non-defenses, perception, and other concepts critical to maintaining a workplace free from harassment based on any protected class. In this session, we will dig deeper into steps we can take to prepare for, prevent, and correct these inappropriate behaviors when they occur. The session will examine necessary components of any organization’s anti-harassment/discrimination policies, legal responsibilities of managers, and how to address issues when they arise. This session is crucial to ensure your organization is prepared and protected in the event inappropriate behavior happens inside or, even at times outside, your organization’s walls.
Tracks: BO, CH, ExL, MH
WO2 | Collaborative Implementation of Outcomes and Decision Support: Provider, Payer, and Purchaser Perspectives
Dan Warner, PhD | Community Data Roundtable
Tina Heinrich, EdS | Behavioral Health Services of Somerset and Bedford Counties
Dale Brickley, PhD, MBA | Wellspan/Philhaven
James Laughman, MSW | PerformCare
Room: Wild Rose AB
Since 2013, PerformCare has collaborated with two of its HealthChoices partners, and their respective provider networks, to implement a collaborative BHRS outcomes project. Thousands of children have been evaluated, creating a rich data source that is presented online for public review, as well as to develop decision support algorithms to inform treatment recommendations. This presentation will show the website where BHRS outcomes are found, and explain how to use the online reports, which include case severity mixes, evidence-based interventions, and outcomes for the BHRS program. The impact that the decision support algorithms have had in increasing referral to evidence-based programs will also be demonstrated.
Tracks: DA, MH
WO3 | Trauma and Addiction Assessment and Care
Renea Snyder, MS, ICAADC | Migliore Treatment Services
Room: Empire A
Approximately 99% of women and 76% of men who suffer from the disease of addiction have some underlying trauma experience. However, these trauma histories are rarely addressed effectively by addiction treatment providers. This discussion will give you a solid understanding about trauma and addiction, assessment of trauma, evidence-based treatment options, and developing a trauma informed agency to improve treatment outcomes.
Tracks: IDD, VR
WO4 | Building the B.E.S.T. Transition: Developing Social Competence and Preparing for Competitive Employment Through Inclusive Transition Programming on a College Campus
Amy Hildebrand, MS,CESP | Saint Vincent College
Alaina D’Aloiso, BS | Saint Vincent College
Room: Empire B
The Bearcat B.E.S.T. (Building Excellence through Skills Training) program is an inclusive, post-secondary transition program for individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities or autism. This presentation describes how one private, 4-year, liberal arts college developed a program to partner with local school districts and community agencies to achieve statistically significant outcomes in the areas of academics, vocational training, social skills, and independent living skills.
Tracks: BO, CH, DA, HRF, MH, PDF
WO5 | Medicaid Managed Care Appeals and Grievances: Understanding the New Rules for Securing Medically Necessary Services
Marissa LaWall, JD | Pennsylvania Health Law Project
Room: Empire C
Pennsylvania’s Medicaid Managed Care Organizations (MCOs) are required to provide their enrollees with medically necessary services. The amount, scope, and duration of those services are determined on a case-by-case basis. There may be times when an MCO enrollee or a provider is not satisfied with the services. There are new rules governing when and how enrollees and providers challenge MCOs that deny prescribed services. This workshop describes the Medicaid’s appeals system, including fair hearing and appeals processes required for Medicaid managed care organizations. Staff from the Pennsylvania Health Law Project (PHLP), which has experience successfully challenging MCO denials, will describe the new rules and how PHLP assists enrollees and providers with the appeal process.
Handout 1 | Handout 2 | Handout 3 | Handout 4 | Handout 5 | Handout 6 | Handout 7
Tracks: BI
WO6 | Evidence-Based Practices: Rehabilitation of Attention and Memory Problems for Individuals With Cognitive Deficits
Bridget Lowery, MS, CBIST |
Main Line Rehabilitation Associates
Room: Empire D
Strong attention skills are the foundation for successful functioning in most cognitive areas, and are necessary for memory functioning. This presentation will identify various types of memory and attention and will examine evidence-based practices for remediating attention and memory deficits.
Tracks: MH
WO7 | Valued Social Roles: The Bridge Between Our Past, Present, and Future
Paul Snyder, BA, CPRP | Keystone Human Services Mental Health
Ellwyn Andres, MA, CPRP |
Keystone Human Services Mental Health
Room: Cocoa 5
Valued social roles give our lives meaning and lead to the good things in life. The more valued social roles a person has, the greater their recovery experience. This workshop explores the development of these valued roles and how we can assist in role development. Lastly, we will discuss how these roles contribute to personal legacy.
Tuesday, October 2 • 1:15 pm – 2:45 pm
Tracks: BO, ExL, HR, LD
WO8 | Facilitating Critical Conversations
Mandy Fauble PhD, LCSW |
Safe Harbor Behavioral Health of UPMC Hamot
Noreen Fredrick, DNP, RN |
Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic
Room: Crystal A
Successful organizations capitalize on strong interpersonal relationships and team spirit. The energy we bring translates into a cohesive workforce that carries out both mission and strategic objectives. But what happens when caring becomes enabling? Or when tempers flare? This workshop explores critical conversations to assist staff in finding and using their talents, drives, motivations, workplace relationships, insight, and self-discipline.
Tracks: BO, IDD
WO9 | Helping People Reach Their Fullest Potential: A Model to Establish and Measure Goals
Stacy Nonnemacher, PhD | PA Office of Developmental Programs: Bureau of Autism Services
Amy Alford, MEd, BCBA | PA Office of Developmental Programs: Bureau of Autism Services
Room: Wild Rose AB
How do we know that the support we provide is effective? Assisting someone to establish meaningful and functional goals for themselves is the first step. From there, it is important to measure progress towards goals in order to inform whether our support is impactful. This session will introduce the Goal Attainment Scale (GAS) model as a means to measure and report progress towards goals and programmatic outcomes. Experience in implementing this model in Pennsylvania’s Adult Autism Waiver will be shared.
Tracks: CH, MH
W10 | LGBTQI, Mental Health, and Creating a Safe Zone in the School Setting Part 1
Joel Brecht, CRC, LPC | Community Care Behavioral Health
Room: Magnolia AB
This workshop is intended for staff of all levels and across disciplines to learn about the needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, and intersex (LGBTQI) Individuals. The training will discuss common terms associated with individuals of differing sexual or gender identities. The training will also cover the health disparities associated with LGBTQI individuals, as well as social stigma, discrimination, and family rejection often experienced by LGBTQI individuals. Ways to create a safe, welcoming, and affirming environment for individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities will be explored.
Handout 1 | Handout 2 | Handout 3 | Handout 4 | Handout 5 | Handout 6 | Handout 7 | Handout 8
Tracks: IDD, VR
W11 | ACCSES National Vocational Update
Kate McSweeney | ACCSES
Room: Empire A
Under existing Federal laws including the Americans with Disabilities Act, as interpreted by the US Supreme Court in Olmstead v. L.C., 527 US 581 (1999), questions arise regarding the application of the “most integrated setting appropriate” mandate in service delivery systems. Recent Department of Justice policy pronouncements and actions, the Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services regulations and policy guidance issued by CMS, and WIOA have encouraged state agencies to reconsider whether they may legally continue to fund an array of prevocational and employment-related services and supports and a continuum of placement options for individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities and others. Among existing optional settings and services that are threatened include skill development centers (e.g., “sheltered workshops”), work crews/enclaves — especially those paying special minimum wages — and day habilitation programs. Does Federal law compel the closing of skill development centers and the elimination of work crews/enclaves and certain day habilitation programs? This presentation will address that question and provide analysis and examples that participants can use to educate policymakers and stakeholders in their respective areas.
Tracks: MH
W12 | Is Vaping a Valid Strategy for Smoking Cessation? Myths and Facts
Jaspreet Brar MD, PhD | Community Care Behavioral Health
Room: Empire B
Use of e-cigarettes and other electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) has increased exponentially in the last decade, especially among individuals with behavioral health (BH) conditions. Individuals who vape consider vaping an acceptable method for harm reduction, and in comparison to cigarettes, the ‘lesser of two evils.’ This presentation will dispel common myths associated with vaping, while informing attendees of the current research on vaping for harm reduction and smoking cessation in individuals with BH conditions. Additionally, this workshop will clarify the current policy positions and provisions held by major regulatory authorities and thought leaders. The recreational use of ENDS in young adults will be discussed along with strategies that BH providers can use to address vaping as part of a smoking cessation plan.
Tracks: CH, IDD
W13 | Understanding Autism: Tools, Strategies, and Resources
Kate Hooven, MS | ASERT Collaborative Eastern Region
Room: Empire C
Between 2009 and 2014, the Pennsylvania Autism Census Project has shown a 181% increase in children and adults with autism receiving services, having identified nearly 20,000 Pennsylvanians receiving such services. Autism has a profound effect, not only on the individuals with autism, but also on their families, government agencies, the educational system, the health care system, and beyond. The presenter of this workshop has a background in the juvenile justice system, and is also the mother of a teenage son with autism.
Tracks: BI, MR, MH, VR
W14 | The Role of Psychotherapy in Neurorehabilitation
Dixon Miller, PhD, FACPN | Acadia, Inc.
Room: Empire D
Neurological injury is a life-changing event with widespread impact for individuals who suffer such an injury. Psychotherapeutic support can make the difference between eventual positive outcomes and marginal to poor outcomes. Yet traditional psychotherapy techniques often require adaptation and clear direction to be fully effective. With a focus on self-awareness, adaptation to current realities, and assumption of responsibility for engagement in the rehabilitation process, psychotherapeutic support can enhance outcomes and long-term adjustment.
Tracks: ET, HR
W15 | Self-Care: An Ethical Imperative for Practitioners Part 1
Lindsay Martin, PhD | Drexel University
Room: Magnolia C
As helping professionals, caring for others is our primary ethical obligation. However, this obligation is meaningless if separated from the imperative to care for oneself. Due to the nature of our work, we are subject to the many costs of caring, including compassion fatigue, burnout, and secondary traumatic stress. While relevant to our own well-being, the occupational hazards endemic to our profession also play a critical role in our ability to help clients. Impaired practitioners are more likely to behave unprofessionally, provide harmful services, and contribute to poor client outcomes. A comprehensive approach to self-care is a vital component in managing our own wellness and offering competent practice. In this workshop, we will explore a variety of strategies and interventions that may support personal wellness and professional competence.
Tracks: BI, BO, CO, ExL, IDD, LD, PDA, VR
W16 | Value-Based Payments ARE in Your Organization’s Future – Start Preparing Today
Fady Sahhar, PhD | XtraGlobex Inc.
Room: Cocoa 5
The session will provide an introduction to Value-Based Payments (VBP), including a clear definition and how and why they are used in health care and human services. The presentation will explore the development of VBP and the top models used in compensating providers. An in-depth examination of the six most commonly used forms will help in identifying the implications to a range of services covering Long-Term Services and Supports for Aging, Physical Disabilities, and IDD populations. The presenter will share specific examples of applications of VBP in Pennsylvania in the physical health and behavioral health areas. This will be an interactive session where you can explore how your organization will be impacted and how you can be prepared.
Tuesday, October 2 • 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm
Tracks: BO, CO, DA, ExL, HRF, IDD, MH, PDA
W17 | Five Tips for Choosing an Electronic Record: Finding the Best Partner to Help You Thrive in a Changing World
David Bucciferro, BS | Foothold Technology
Yehuda Charm | Foothold Technology
Jennifer Lewis, BA | MHY Family Services
Room: Crystal A
In today’s changing landscape, electronic recordkeeping is critical to any agency’s survival. You need tools to help you report on outcomes, identify success, and develop staff. Using your data strategically can also enhance the value of your programs to funders. How do you choose a technology partner who understands the challenges you face? How do you manage change within your agency? In this session, we’ll share five key lessons learned as a result of implementing an electronic record. Speakers will share best practices around change management and describe ways good data can help you survive and thrive in an ever-changing world. This is not a demo of technology; rather a conversation based on best practices from provider organizations using technology.
Tracks: IDD, LD
W18 | A Biopsychosocial Approach to Addressing Mental Health and Challenging Behavior
Denise Vanacore, PhD, CRNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC | Gwynedd Mercy University
Peg Schwartz, MSW, LCSW | Community Services Group
Room: Wild Rose AB
This presentation will discuss an innovative practice model for providing mental health care to individuals with an intellectual/developmental disability and a mental health disorder. Challenges in caring for these individuals include the complex presentation of their symptoms and the difficulty in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment. Individuals with an intellectual/developmental disability and a mental health disorder have complex medical needs that reflect biopsychosocial influences. This presentation will examine the components of the biopsychosocial approach to assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of these individuals. The importance of accurate diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders as well as their medical co-morbidities will be reviewed. Trends in diagnosis with genetic testing and treatment with accurate psychopharmacology will be included.
Tracks: CH, MH
W19 | LGBTQI, Mental Health, and Creating a Safe Zone in the School Setting Part 2
Joel Brecht, CRC, LPC | Community Care Behavioral Health
Room: Magnolia AB
(Continuation) This workshop is intended for staff of all levels and across disciplines to learn about the needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, and intersex (LGBTQI) Individuals. The training will discuss common terms associated with individuals of differing sexual or gender identities. The training will also cover the health disparities associated with LGBTQI individuals, as well as social stigma, discrimination, and family rejection often experienced by LGBTQI individuals. Ways to create a safe, welcoming, and affirming environment for individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities will be explored.
Handout 1 | Handout 2 | Handout 3 | Handout 4 | Handout 5 | Handout 6 | Handout 7 | Handout 8
Tracks: BI, BO, CH, DA, IDD, MR, MH, PDA, VR
W20 | LTSS Based Person-Centered Mobile-Based Assistive Technology, Data Collection, Outcomes, Interventions
Rini Gahir | Mozzaz
Room: Empire A
Individuals with services under HCBS programs vary widely in skill and cognitive ability. Assistive technology enables these individuals to live healthy, productive, independent, and dignified lives. This session will explore the various considerations care teams should evaluate in the use of technology to assist with care, as well as the need for accurate data collection to measure outcomes. This workshop will examine the various ways mobile-based assistive technology can be personalized, designed, and implemented. These key principles of good practice and data collection can be used to support the independence of individuals and their integration into the wide community.
Tracks: CH, MH
W21 | Trauma Informed Care Across Service Lines
Laura Gallagher, LSW, CPRP |
Salisbury Behavioral Health, Inc.
Dave Paone, MEd, CPRP |
Salisbury Behavioral Health, Inc.
Jeff Duke | Salisbury Behavioral Health, Inc.
Room: Empire B
This presentation will start with describing trauma informed care through a site-specific lens, as well as from examples from the audience. An interactive activity will be utilized to discuss three self-capacities and how challenging behaviors can be helpful. The session leaders describe Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) studies and the longer-term impact of trauma. Lastly, administering and interpreting the ACE questionnaire will be explored.
Tracks: BO, DA, HRF
W22 | Expanding the Center of Excellence (COE) Across a Treatment System: The Pyramid Implementation Results and Future Goals
Winnie Nagle, PhD, LPC | Pyramid Healthcare
David Loveland, PhD | Community Care Behavioral Health
Room: Empire C
Participants will learn how Pyramid developed a comprehensive model of care for individuals with an opioid use disorder (OUD), including rapid engagement, developing an integrated model of medication-assisted treatment (MAT), and retaining individuals over time. The workshop will highlight the steps as well as some of the challenges encountered in developing a center of excellence. Participants will also learn how Pyramid is using the COE to promote and expand access to all levels of care for individuals with an OUD. A variety of information will be presented to assess the impact of the COE and MAT in general. Participants will learn how to engage and retain individuals with an OUD in a system of care within existing resources.
Tracks: IDD, MH
W23 | Evidence-Based Trauma Treatment for Individuals Supported by the Dual Diagnosis Treatment Team
Coleen Vanderbeek, PsyD | Merakey
Samantha Adams, MS | Merakey
Room: Empire D
This workshop will describe Merakey’s Dual Diagnosis Treatment Team (DDTT), including composition, implementation, internal auditing processes, and outcomes. Presenters will review how the DDTTs utilize evidence-based practices to support individuals with co-occurring mental health and intellectual/developmental disabilities in their recovery from traumatic events.
Tracks: ET
W24 | Self-Care: An Ethical Imperative for Practitioners Part 2
Lindsay Martin, PhD | Drexel University
Room: Magnolia C
As helping professionals, caring for others is our primary ethical obligation. However, this obligation is meaningless if separated from the imperative to care for oneself. Due to the nature of our work, we are subject to the many costs of caring, including compassion fatigue, burnout, and secondary traumatic stress. While relevant to our own well-being, the occupational hazards endemic to our profession also play a critical role in our ability to help clients. Impaired practitioners are more likely to behave unprofessionally, provide harmful services, and contribute to poor client outcomes. A comprehensive approach to self-care is a vital component in managing our own wellness and offering competent practice. In this workshop, we will explore a variety of strategies and interventions that may support personal wellness and professional competence.
Tracks: BO, CH, DA, ExL, MH
W25 | Maximizing Technology to Address a Macro Problem at the Micro Level
Steven Herr, PhD | Advanced Metrrics
Kate Gallagher, MNM | coLAB
Anna Kennedy |
Lancaster Osteopathic Health Foundation
Room: Magnolia D
Clinical outcomes in the form of data are ultimately what gives organizations and practitioners a voice at the table during strategic conversations about value-based purchasing, policy development, population health, disease management, and coordinated care. NavWell, a coordinated care application, will be showcased to demonstrate innovation that evolved from universally recognized treatment challenges. Lessons learned from the challenging, yet successful implementation of this technology will be shared as part of a mission driven effort to advance the field with meaningful outcomes data.
Tracks: MH
W26 | Family Inclusion Standards and Certification: Influencing Policy, Practice, and Paradigm
David Dinich, MS | PMHCC, Inc.
Kathleen Cantwell | PMHCC, Inc.
Edith Mannion, LMFT | Mental Health Partnerships
Lloyd Wertz, MS | PMHCC, Inc.
Room: Cocoa 5
Family members can be an integral part of care for individuals in behavioral health recovery; however, they have not always been seen as such. Families, both biological and chosen, frequently want to be a part of their loved one’s recovery process, but providers may not be certain how to best include family within the treatment framework. The Family Resource Network (FRN), part of Philadelphia’s Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services (DBHIDS), has researched the role of family in treatment for over three decades in Philadelphia and other counties throughout Pennsylvania. They have completed a set of Family Inclusion Standards, which are set to become a certification process within the city in 2019.
Wednesday, October 3 • 8:30 am – 10:00 am
Tracks: DA, MH
W27 | Multigenerational Recovery: Women, Their Children, and Substance Use Disorder Care
Mandy Fauble, PhD, LCSW |
Safe Harbor Behavioral Health of UPMC Hamot
Jessianne Montie, LPC, CCADC |
Safe Harbor Behavioral Health of UPMC Hamot
Room: Crystal A
The majority of women seeking services for substance use disorder have experienced significant trauma, and most of these women are also mothers. This workshop explores the links between trauma, substance use disorder, and family life. We will identify how the challenges of trauma and substance use disorder create critical risk factors for both mothers and their families, but also how they can be mitigated with family focused approaches. Research indicates that women’s substance use disorder treatment is more effective when it includes their important relationships, and it is useful to find methods that support their parenting roles and foster a multigenerational perspective of recovery.
Tracks: ExL, HR, LD
W28 | Leaders Working to Fuel the Future Part 1
John Amato, MEd | Familylinks, Inc.
Tom Sullivan, MPA | ProGrowth Associates, LLC
Room: Wild Rose AB
The work that leaders do — the work that really matters — can be boiled down to three areas. Whether you are a senior executive or a leader on the front line, this workshop will focus on three fundamental responsibilities for leading a team or an entire organization toward desired future outcomes. Participants will learn the key drivers and best practices involved in establishing a strategic path, building a cohesive team, and providing the right type of leadership along the way.
Tracks: CH, MH
W29 | Creating Responsible Kids on Smartphones Part 1
Ryan Klingensmith, MA, NCC, LPC | Shape The Sky
Room: Magnolia AB
Kids today have unlimited access to information, apps, and websites that can be wonderfully helpful, but also lead to concerning behaviors if adults don’t have the knowledge to teach young people how to behave responsibly in this new cyber-playground. Kids have the knowledge of how to use technology but sometimes lack the wisdom to use it sensibly. Adults have the wisdom to be responsible users but sometimes lack the knowledge of how to use technology. This workshop will connect skills for using technology with the wisdom of responsibility.
Tracks: CO
W30 | An Ounce of Prevention: Identifying and Addressing Common Risk Factors Before the Government Comes Calling
Antonio Pozos, JD | Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP
Mira Baylson, JD | Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP
Room: Empire A
This session will explore common risk factors that concern health care law enforcement agencies, and the increasingly important role that data analytics plays in singling out providers for heightened governmental scrutiny. The session will also discuss compliance best practices and procedures to address common risk factors before they become systemic problems, and for empowering medical professionals and staff to participate in a culture of compliance.
Tracks: BO, CO, PDA
W31 | Managed Care and Long-Term Services and Supports – Riding the Tidal Wave of Change
Fady Sahhar, PhD | XtraGlobex
Andrea Costello | Transitional Paths to Independent Living
Brenda Dare | Transitional Paths to Independent Living
Room: Empire B
Nationwide changes impact all those who are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid (dual-eligible), as well as those considered Nursing Facility Clinically Eligible (NFCE), who are receiving services in their homes or nursing facilities. This session will provide the most up-to-date information pertaining to the rollout of the newly implemented Community Health Choices (CHC) Program in Pennsylvania. Experts will offer guidance on how to successfully negotiate with managed care entities from a position of strength and adopt smart contracting practices. Attendees will hear from experts in the field of managed care, long-term services and supports, home and community based services, as well as a participant’s view.
Tracks: CH, DA, MH
W32 | WAM! Utilizing Clinical Supervision to Enhance Employee Engagement and Retention
Shannon Tronzo, MSEd, LPC |
UPMC Behavioral Health of the Alleghenies
Alicia Bisaha, MA, NCC, LPC |
Mon Yough Community Services
Diana Packech, MS |
UPMC Behavioral Health of the Alleghenies
Room: Empire C
This workshop will provide an in-depth look at various clinical supervision models while linking the components of Bordin’s Working Alliance Model to enhance employee engagement and retention. The Supervisory Working Alliance Tool will be introduced as a means to measure employee satisfaction around supervision. Participants can expect an active learning session to include vignettes and small group discussions.
Tracks: BI, CH, DA, IDD, MR, MH
W33 | Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) in Youth: Become Involved
Gordon Hodas, MD | PA OMHSAS
Dianna Brocious | PA System of Care Partnership
Room: Empire D
From the perspective of both individual health and population health, it is imperative that human services professionals understand Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) in children, adolescents, and young adults. Often an invisible condition, FASD interferes with child and youth development and may result in a range of lifelong disabilities. This workshop addresses FASD in terms of clinical manifestations and challenges, helpful clinical interventions, and the role of the Statewide FASD Task Force. Faculty consists of two parent advocates, the PA Children’s Bureau Director, and the Consulting Child Psychiatrist for the Bureau. Broaden your perspective and consider how you can become involved with FASD and make a difference.
Tracks: VR
W34 | Changing Employment Policy and Models: The Research Has Not Been Done to Know That People Will Be Better Off
James Conroy, PhD | Center for Outcome Analysis
Room: Magnolia C
In the great deinstitutionalization movement, America did the scientific research to find out that most people were much better off. The foremost work was done here in Pennsylvania – the Pennhurst Longitudinal Study. In today’s movement away from sheltered sub-minimum wage (14c) work settings, we have not done the same, and this is grossly irresponsible. Some states have already ended 14c options, but none of them have tracked people to assure that they are equally or more engaged, integrated, employed, and happy. This workshop will explore what we can do, quickly and at low cost. We need provider agencies to step up and assist in this socially conscious scientific mission.
Tracks: CH, IDD, MH
W35 | Pulling the Pieces Together: Caring for Families With Special Needs and Trauma
Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM |
Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health
Vernick Smith, MS | Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health
Room: Magnolia D
In this presentation, the ‘inside view’ of life of families living with special needs (autism, anxiety disorders, and IDD) as well as those with trauma histories will be explained in a very real and honest manner. This workshop will discuss the commonalities among diagnoses and co-occurring conditions, and unique and unconventional evidence-based treatment modalities. Resiliency and empowerment for the individuals, their families, and for the treating clinicians, are also addressed. This presentation, designed for youth, families, professionals, and physicians, is guaranteed to leave its audience with a new view of these issues, as well as some practical ‘tips and tricks’ that can be put to use immediately.
Tracks: IDD
W36 | Instructing Individuals With ASD and ID to Understand Healthy Relationships Through Evidence-Based Practices Part 1
Robert Anderson, MSW | Wesley Family Services
Room: Cocoa 5
Puberty is a critical time of physical and emotional development, especially for young people with a diagnosis. Individuals with disabilities (including autism and ID) need direct instruction, repetition, and remediation in such areas as hygiene, self-care, sexuality, and social relationships. In 2018, adolescents are also facing challenges related to social media, crime, and same sex partnerships. It is necessary to facilitate skill acquisition in these areas in a developmentally appropriate manner to ensure positive outcomes. This workshop will describe an evidence-based program that instructs its participants how to pursue and maintain healthy and safe relationships.
Wednesday, October 3 • 10:15 am – 11:45 am
Tracks: BO, ExL, FM, IDD,
W37 | IDD Service Delivery – Your Agency Has Survived Massive Changes Over the Last Few Years. What Have We Learned and What Comes Next?
Paul Stanalonis | Stanalonis & Associates, LLC
Room: Crystal A
IDD providers have undergone massive changes over the last few years — these changes have impacted every facet of operations, including reimbursement methods and rates, service definitions, and the staffing and delivery of services. Clearly, these changes have impacted every provider in various ways, and have resulted in increased compliance risk. Some providers have thrived, while others have merely survived. This session will explore the “lessons learned,” and how providers should proactively proceed into the future to deliver high-quality services and supports.
Tracks: ExL, HR, LD
W38 | Leaders Working to Fuel the Future Part 2
John Amato, MEd | Familylinks, Inc.
Tom Sullivan, MPA | ProGrowth Associates, LLC
Room: Wild Rose AB
(Continuation) The work that leaders do — the work that really matters — can be boiled down to three areas. Whether you are a senior executive or a leader on the front line, this workshop will focus on three fundamental responsibilities for leading a team or an entire organization toward desired future outcomes. Participants will learn the key drivers and best practices involved in establishing a strategic path, building a cohesive team, and providing the right type of leadership along the way.
Tracks: CH, MH
W39 | Creating Responsible Kids on Smartphones Part 2
Ryan Klingensmith, MA, NCC, LPC | Shape The Sky
Room: Magnolia AB
Kids today have unlimited access to information, apps, and websites that can be wonderfully helpful, but also lead to concerning behaviors if adults don’t have the knowledge to teach young people how to behave responsibly in this new cyber-playground. Kids have the knowledge of how to use technology but sometimes lack the wisdom to use it sensibly. Adults have the wisdom to be responsible users but sometimes lack the knowledge of how to use technology. This workshop will connect skills for using technology with the wisdom of responsibility.
Tracks: CH, MH
W40 | Sustaining Evidence-Based Practices in Community Agencies: Lessons Learned From a Statewide Implementation of Parent-Child Interaction Therapy
Amy Herschell, PhD |
The Early Childhood Innovations Center, LLC
Kristen Schaffner |
The Early Childhood Innovations Center, LLC
Room: Empire A
In terms of large-scale implementations of the evidence-based intervention Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Pennsylvania boasts one of the largest statewide initiatives with a relatively quick scale-up. Across PA, over 325 clinicians in over 117 agencies, in 62 of the 67 counties, have been trained in PCIT. This presentation will utilize an Implementation Science framework to discuss key system-, organizational-, and client-level factors impacting the implementation and sustainability of a new practice. Given the current literature and lessons learned from the statewide PCIT implementation, participants will identify strategies to strengthen the use of evidence-based practices within their system or organization.
Tracks: MH
W41 | Overview of Assessing and Managing Suicide Risk
Ellwyn Andres, MA, CPRP |
Keystone Human Services Mental Health
James Heck, PhD |
Keystone Human Services Mental Health
Room: Empire B
This workshop presents an overview of the educational curriculum from the Suicide Prevention Resource Center titled, “Assessing and Managing Suicide Risk (AMSR): Core Competencies for Behavioral Health Professionals.” The facilitators will describe the knowledge, skills and attitudes that help practitioners assess and manage suicidal risk. The facilitators are approved faculty for AMSR who have experience providing services in the public mental health system.
Tracks: MH, PDA
W42 | Serving Older Adults: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Coordination
Stacey Rivenburg, PsyD | PerformCare
Room: Empire C
As the older adult population continues to rise in the United States, it is important for clinicians to be aware of the common misconceptions that can impact one’s attitudes and beliefs when working with the older adult population. Being aware of psychological disorders that impact this population, as well as efficacious treatment modalities, will assist clinicians in being more prepared when engaging this population in treatment planning. This training will explore the meaning of the phrase “older adult,” debunk common myths related to this population, discuss psychological disorders that impact this population, as well as treatment considerations when working with the older adult population.
Tracks: IDD
W43 | Risk Factors and Health Conditions Associated With Obesity for Individuals With IDD
Melissa DiSipio, MSA, FAAIDD | Philadelphia Coordinated Health Care (PCHC)
Room: Empire D
According to the CDC, obesity is a common, serious, and costly epidemic. People with intellectual and developmental disabilities are more likely to be obese compared to the general population. The higher prevalence of obesity in people with IDD is due to a complex mix of behavioral, environmental, and biological factors. This session will describe the risk factors and health conditions associated with obesity for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It will review various prevention strategies and resources to promote a healthy lifestyle in the community and summarize ways to encourage individuals with IDD to participate in their own health promotion.
Tracks: HR, LD, MH
W44 | Reiki – Energize Your Life!
Jennifer Garver, MS
Room: Magnolia C
Discover how Reiki can bring balance to Mind, Body, and Spirit for a happy and calm life. This session will discuss the definition of Reiki, how Reiki heals, specific uses for Reiki, and different Reiki techniques. Attendees will have an opportunity to participate in a 20-minute meditation experience using techniques from the new Holy Fire Reiki system. Time for quiet reflection will be provided along with a Q & A session at the end.
Tracks: IDD, VR
W45 | How Section 511 and Supported Employment Laws and Changes Affect Youth With Disabilities
Kim Robinson, CRC | PA OVR
Beth Ann Fanning | PA OVR
Kathleen McGrath, CRC | PA OVR
Room: Magnolia D
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) changed how youth access certain employment services. Specific requirements must be met, which often includes an OVR referral. In this session, OVR staff will discuss the laws, requirements, and OVR’s new supported employment services to better meet the needs of these youths and promote competitive integrated employment.
Tracks: IDD
W46 | Human Sexuality Issues and the Developmentally Disabled: Understanding Needs and Dangers and Proactive Methods to Understanding and Safety Part 2
Lawrence Sutton, PhD | Wesley Family Services
Room: Cocoa 5
Typically, adolescents often learn through trial and error approaches, including in the arenas of love and loving others. This learning generally begins through the modeling presented by their parents, by observation of older peers, and through individual mutual experimentation. Adolescents and young adults with developmental disorders aren’t always as successful in learning how to express love, or how to develop interpersonal and sexual intimacies with others, as are their typical peers. This workshop will examine the complex questions involved in helping a teen or young adult with IDD to understand their sexuality needs. Dangers will be outlined, as well as proactive methods to prevent as well as respond to problems.
Wednesday, October 3 • 1:15 pm – 2:45 pm
Tracks: BI, BO, FM, IDD, PDA, VR
W47 | Community HealthChoices Managed Care Panel Discussion
Richard Edley, PhD | RCPA
Patricia Wright | AmeriHealth Caritas
Ray Prushnok | UPMC for You
Anna Keith | PA Health & Wellness
Room: Crystal A
Hear from a panel of CHC-MCO leadership as to the Community HealthChoices (CHC) implementation. The close of continuity of care period in the Southwest, as well as the Southeast implementation status, will be reviewed. Network development, contracting, value-based purchasing, and other topics to be discussed. There will also be ample time for questions from the audience.
Tracks: CH, MH
W48 | National Panel on Children’s Issues
Robena Spangler, MS | RCPA
Jody Levison-Johnson, LCSW-C |
National Council for Behavioral Health
Cheryl Tierney, MD, MPH |
Penn State Children’s Hospital
Room: Wild Rose AB
As children’s services professionals, we have been challenged with unfunded mandates, absence of data to inform decisions, licensing/compliance issues, lack of a holistic approach for meeting the unique needs of families and youth in our “systems,” and an overall mission to “redesign” the child-serving system in PA. This moderated panel will discuss the importance of research, policy, and practice in the delivery and oversight of effective, outcomes-driven children’s services. The panelists will lead a discussion guided by transformational leadership principles. Transformational leadership is an approach that causes change in individuals and social systems. Ideally, it creates valuable and positive change with the end goal of developing leaders. It enhances motivation, morale, and performance through a variety of ways. These include connecting followers to the missions of their respective organizations, providing role modeling that inspires, challenging followers to take greater ownership for their work, and aligning them with tasks that optimize their performance. The approach also redesigns perceptions and values, and changes expectations and aspirations of employees and stakeholders. It helps to articulate an energizing vision and challenge goals and organizational cultures.
Tracks: BO, CO, FM, HRF, LD
W49 | Using Predictive Analytics in Your Organization: Getting Started
Tim Casey, MA | Allegheny HealthChoices, Inc.
Brian Mountain, BS | Allegheny HealthChoices, Inc.
Room: Empire A
As the health care payment landscape moves closer to a value-based model, it is becoming increasingly necessary to make smarter, data-driven decisions. Our industry generates massive amounts of data, and predictive analytics allow organizations to put that data to work to help with resource allocation, treatment efficiencies, service trends, financial forecasting, and more. This presentation will help de-mystify some of the “scarier” aspects of the topic to allow attendees to move forward with the examination of how predictive analytics can help their organizations.
Tracks: DA
W50 | Supporting Sustained Recovery for Opioid Use Disorder
Jeffrey Meyerhoff, MD | Optum
Room: Empire B
The United States is currently in the midst of an opioid crisis; every 16 minutes, someone in America dies from an opioid overdose. In order to effectively address this issue, it is important to recognize that opioid use disorder, like other substance use disorders, is a chronic disease and thus requires long-term treatment and recovery planning.
Tracks: MH
W51 | Preparing CPS to Work Effectively With Individuals in the Recovery Journey
Gregory Martin, MMHS, BS, MTREM, CPT | United Peers/RHD
Sheila Hall-Prioleau, MS, BS, CPS, FPS, ALWF |
United Peers/RHD
Sheryl Newton, MS, BA, CPS, ALWF | United Peers/RHD
Room: Empire C
The “Preparing CPS to Work Effectively With Individuals in the Recovery Journey “ presentation provides insight into the CPS movement (the good, the bad, and the ugly). The session shares live case scenarios which illustrate the obstacles, challenges, and corrective approaches associated with increasing the CPS workforce.
Tracks: ET, HR
W52 | Workplace Ethics Part 1
Susan Greene, MSHR, SHRM-CP, PHR, CCT |
Penn State Executive Programs
Mary Kay Williams, MEd, SPHR, SHRM-SCP |
Mind Shift Consulting
Room: Empire D
Incidents of misconduct erode public trust and raise questions regarding the ability of organizations to deal effectively with ethical issues. This course helps the participant develop and implement training programs that encourage ethical conduct of employees, thus providing a culture built on the honesty and integrity of a company and its employees. The public wants to do business with organizations that can be trusted and employees want to work for organizations that have a reputation for treating individuals with respect and fairness.
Tracks: BI, IDD, LD, MR, PDA
W53 | Accessing Your Electronic Health Record as a Self-Advocate
Michelle Saunders | Therap
Jennifer Yost | Therap
Christine Cook | The Resource Center
Room: Magnolia D
This presentation focuses on activities these self-advocates participate in, including the monitoring and entering of data into their EHR (Electronic Health Record). The presenters will demonstrate how they log into the system independently to document information and discuss how their involvement enhances the quality of their lives and care. They will discuss their involvement in some activities, including their job at Therap, working as self-advocates. There will be a Q&A portion at the end of this presentation.
Tracks: BO, CH, DA, ExL, FM, LD, MH
W54 | Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic Moderated Panel
Ellen DiDomenico | PA Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP)
Fran Malley | Berks Counseling Center
Stephanie Murtagh | Pittsburgh Mercy
John Heim | Berks Counseling Center
Mark Wendel | CenClear
Rebecca Farley-David | National Council for Behavioral Health
Room: Cocoa 5
Join this moderated panel to learn about the demonstration grant funded Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHC). The panel will discuss the implementation process, which outcomes were selected, as well as which were required. Finally, the panel will review challenges and successes as they go into year two of the grant.
Wednesday, October 3 • 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm
Tracks: BI, IDD, PDA, VR
W55 | Community HealthChoices (CHC) and the Office of Long-Term Living (OLTL) Panel: Focus on Employment Services
Edward Butler | PA Dept. of Human Services, Office of Long-Term Living, Bureau of Participant Operations
Sara Reitenauer, MPH, MA, LPC, CRC |
AmeriHealth Caritas
Ray Prushnok | UPMC for You
Matthew Jennings | UPMC for You
Anna Keith | PA Health and Wellness
Ky’a Jackson | AmeriHealth Caritas
Rachel Hudzick Sprenkler | PA Health & Wellness
Room: Crystal A
CHC-MCO leadership and OLTL representatives will specifically discuss inroads to employment opportunities for individuals enrolled under CHC. The MCO employment plans submitted to OLTL will be reviewed as well as progress that has been made with network development and individual service plans to incorporate this important initiative.
Tracks: BO, CO, ExL
W56 | Straight From a Compliance Officer’s Mouth: What Keeps me up at Night
Paul Stanalonis | Stanalonis & Associates, LLC
Room: Wild Rose AB
Saying that your organization is “doing the best it can” is never an excuse for non-compliant actions, especially during these times of ever-increasing compliance oversight. Health care providers are expected to implement and maintain a formal, active, and robust compliance program – even during times when budgets are tight and dollars are already stretched. This means that your organization’s compliance efforts must be focused based on potential risks, and you must get some “bang for your buck.” This session will focus on identifying the specific compliance risks facing providers today, and how to address those risks in a cost-effective manner. This session will also address what to do when things go wrong.
Tracks: BI, IDD, MR, PDA
W57 | From Darkness to Light: Helping The Beautiful Girls Lead Beautiful Lives
Rachel Simon
Room: Magnolia AB
How do we help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities live lives with meaning, dignity, and respect, fulfilling their innate potential? How can we ensure that all people live in freedom, rather than hidden from the world? Rachel Simon’s novel, The Story of Beautiful Girl, illustrates these themes. Using original artwork, family photos, and archival photos, Rachel will discuss our shared history, her personal history, and how we can all make a difference. This talk touches on many issues familiar to those in the disability community: the abuse and dehumanizing conditions in the institution, the advent of deinstitutionalization, and the value of dedicated direct support professionals, who work to enhance the lives of people with disabilities. Rachel also weaves in issues such as the right to community living, romance, self-expression, spirituality, and independence.
Tracks: CH, MH
W58 | My Life Matters: Youth as Agents of Change
Tara Karbiner, LCSW | Magellan Behavioral Health
Marissa Gates | Magellan Behavioral Health
Room: Empire A
Magellan Health Services, Bucks, Montgomery, Delaware, Lehigh, and Northampton Counties, and three provider agencies partnered to improve the services and supports provided to transition age youth with behavioral health challenges, to improve their health and wellness outcomes through the implementation and adaptation of the evidence supported model Transition to Independence Process (TIP)™, developed by Dr. Hewitt “Rusty” Clark. Learn about the regional partnership that promoted program implementation, the fidelity assessment process, site-based trainer development, and outcomes collection.
Tracks: HR, LD
W59 | Laughter and Play to Save the Day
Angela Chew, LCSW | Dickinson Center, Inc.
Room: Empire B
The healing power of laughter and play can be applied to preventing and addressing vicarious trauma. Learn how it helps vicarious trauma and experience strategies which can be used in a variety of supervision approaches. Warning: You may experience increased endorphins, side splitting laughter, and fun.
Tracks: BO, CO, ExL, FM, HRF, LD
W60 | Digital Health Care in a Subscription- Based Economy
Ravi Ganesan, MBA | Core Solutions, Inc.
Room: Empire C
Over the last several years, we have seen a paradigm shift in the way people and organizations do business. In an increasingly digital world where data is transforming entire industries (think Amazon, Netflix, Uber), how can you leverage digital technologies to reach your organization’s mission — better, faster, and cheaper? During this interactive workshop, attendees will work collaboratively to understand the role of technology and the effects of new regulations, reforms, and requirements on their businesses, all while establishing meaningful connectivity amongst each other to achieve worthwhile outcomes.
Tracks: ET, HR
W61 | Workplace Ethics Part 2
Susan Greene, MSHR, SHRM-CP, PHR, CCT |
Penn State Executive Programs
Mary Kay Williams, MEd, SPHR, SHRM-SCP |
Mind Shift Consulting
Room: Empire D
Incidents of misconduct erode public trust and raise questions regarding the ability of organizations to deal effectively with ethical issues. This course helps the participant develop and implement training programs that encourage ethical conduct of employees, thus providing a culture built on the honesty and integrity of a company and its employees. The public wants to do business with organizations that can be trusted and employees want to work for organizations that have a reputation for treating individuals with respect and fairness.
Tracks: BO, ExL, LD
W62 | What Glass Ceiling? Women in Leadership
Charlotte Chew, MS | Beacon Health Options
Debra Luther, PhD, CCPT | Beacon Health Options
Room: Magnolia D
The roles of women have changed significantly over time; however, the number of women in leadership roles pales in comparison with the number of men in leadership positions. In this session, we will explore why women sell themselves short and don’t achieve the positions they desire. We will also identify real life strategies to overcome the barriers that hold women back from breaking through the notorious glass ceiling. We will discuss how achieving personal growth and status doesn’t mean compromising other personal priorities such as relationships and family.
Tracks: CH, DA, HRF, MH
W63 | Collaboration in Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics: The New Frontier of Delivery Models
Linda Groff, MS | Threshold
Christine Axford, MEd, LPC | Berks Counseling Services
Bonnie Triebig, MS | Berks Counseling Center
Room: Cocoa 5
This session will address the benefits and lessons learned from the processes of developing new models of collaborative initiatives with community based health and social providers. As health care providers, we are keenly aware of the value of working collaboratively — however, working collaboratively is not always easy. Each setting of care has local, distinct, and multiple factors that can either support or be a barrier to collaborative practice. The presentation will focus on practice setting variables and essential elements of quality collaboration. Discussion will emphasize the experience of working with designated collaborative organizations.
Thursday, October 4 • 8:30 am – 10:00 am
Tracks: BO, CO, ExL, HR, LD
W64 | OCR HIPAA Enforcement: Learning From Others to Improve Your Compliance and Informational Governance
Renee H. Martin, JD, RN, MSN
Room: Wild Rose AB
2016 brought several noteworthy HIPAA enforcement actions along with Office for Civil Rights (OCR) guidance on both basic HIPAA compliance requirements and emerging threats from improper business associate conduct, ransomeware, cloud computing, and mobile devices lacking encryption. This presentation will highlight 2016 HIPAA enforcement activities, demonstrate how to avoid and respond to OCR investigations, and help you understand the importance of informational governance in your agency.
Tracks: BO, CH, DA, ExL, HRF, LD, MH
W65 | Behavioral Health Trends & Updates: Strategies for the Road Ahead
Chuck Ingoglia, MSW |
National Council for Behavioral Health
Room: Magnolia ABCD
Behavioral health providers rely on information at a national level to help inform work in state and local arenas, often turning to the National Council for Behavioral Health for up-to-the minute public policy and payment news in the changing health care environment. In this session, current trends will be shared about behavioral health Medicaid design from around the country, the evolution of value-based payments for behavioral health, and strategies for success in this environment.
Tracks: HR, LD
W66 | Influence: Whether we are Leading at Home, at Work, in a Volunteer Organization, or Any Other Location, Our Ability to Positively Influence Others is Critical to Success
Randy Wilson, MBA | Reliable Efficient & Ethical Leadership Professional Development (REEL PD)
Room: Empire A
If we can’t influence people, we can’t lead them. If we can’t lead them, the mission suffers — it really is as simple as that. We will focus on positive ways to influence people, and we will start with understanding how “having integrity” is the foundation for all other ways of positively influencing people. When we gain influence through integrity, we can move forward; if we don’t have integrity, then nothing else matters. In addition to integrity, we will look at other activities such as having faith in others, navigating for others, connecting with others, nurturing others, and listening to others. Attendees should be ready to participate and leave this with specific action(s) to improve their influencing abilities.
Tracks: IDD
W67 | Sexuality and Consent
Robin Van Eerden, LPC |
Integrative Counseling Services, PC
Room: Empire B
Sexuality and consent is viewed in many different ways that can lead to unsafe practices. This workshop will review assessments that are available for people with intellectual disabilities which are valid and reliable for measuring consent, sexual knowledge, and attitudes. Assessments will be reviewed and how to formulate recommendations from the results will be covered. Case studies will be used so that examples can be given to learn and hear both positive and negative outcomes. Participants will develop a balanced viewpoint to help people with intellectual disabilities explore, discover, and connect with their sexuality in a safe and healthy way. Additionally, how to address the impact of trauma will be covered. Specific resources will be given to participants that will be helpful, including an example of sexuality guidelines for providers.
Tracks: IDD, MH, PDA
W68 | Six Triangles and a Square: Building individualized Self Advocacy Skills for Successful Consumer Outcomes
Lauren Hatcher, MSW |
Transitional Paths to Independent Living
Nan Sninsky | Transitional Paths to Independent Living
Brenda Dare | Transitional Paths to Independent Living
Room: Empire C
Supporting consumers in developing strong self advocacy skills is challenging. In this presentation, attendees will learn a comprehensive, flexible approach that embraces developing individualized skill building solutions for consumers in complex situations. Role-play will be used to demonstrate how these practices can help consumers lead free and independent lives with confidence.
Tracks: ExL, FM, IDD
W69 | The Risks and Rewards of Medicaid Managed Care for Persons With Disabilities
Dan Ohler, MBA | Optum
Michael Hammond | Optum
Room: Empire D
States continue to transition their Medicaid programs from a fee-for-service model to managed care for their beneficiaries, which may include individuals with disabilities. So it is important that implementing such programs would address the unique challenges of this population and all disabled populations. Join this discussion to discover key considerations for managed-care states and providers to ensure access to quality services for persons with disabilities. They will explore Optum’s experiences and lessons learned from establishing Medicaid managed care disability programs, and review the feedback they have received from participating Medicaid purchasers, providers, and beneficiaries.