NON-CE Session
Thought Leader
TL01 Balancing Stability and Agility for Sustainable Business
10:30 am – 11:00 am
Danielle Ross, Netsmart Vice President, vCIO
W01 Preparing Infrastructure for Managed Care in ID/DD Providers
1:00 pm – 2:15 pm
Christopher Lucas, Esq
Rob Labatch, President/CEO, Hope Enterprises
From the inception of large-scale government health care programs in the 1960s through the present, reimbursement systems have evolved. Managed care as a payment method represents the ultimate evolution of these systems. In ID/DD area, payment system evolution is likely to be accelerated by Covid and providers can expect a transition to managed care in the future. Like all change, the transition to managed care will create winners and losers. Strategies that will optimize your organization’s adaption will span operational systems from finance and information technology to compliance and human resources. Planning for success can involve making internal changes, forming ventures, alliances and groups of various kinds, and utilizing consulting and management experts.
W02 Coordinating Measurement-Based Care: How the Maryland Community Behavioral Health Association improved treatment outcomes and leveraged their data.
1:00 pm – 2:15 pm
Shannon Hall, JD, Executive Director, Community Behavioral Health Association of Maryland
Jamie Wilson, MSW/LCSW-C/LICSW, Clinical Supervisor, The Children’s Guild Alliance
Simon Weisz, JD, President, Greenspace Mental Health
Over the past year, the Community Behavioral Health Association of Maryland implemented measurement-based care across more than 12 member agencies and 800 providers. This was a significant and highly successful undertaking that was completed in partnership with its members and Greenspace Mental Health. The core goals of this coordinated initiative were to: (a) generate important data on quality of care to support State level advocacy work; (b) support members with the implementation of measurement-based care; and (c) to make measurement more valuable and effective for each participating member through benchmarking. At the RCPA Conference, we are very excited to share the key learnings and results from this work.
W03 Leadership in Technology for a New Era
1:00 pm – 2:15 pm
Shaleea Shields, Director of Innovation, Merakey
Madison Obert, IDD Innovation Business Coordinator, Merakey
This discussion will focus on leadership requirements to create an agile culture for successful technology implementation. Features of the discussion will include multiple perspectives; Merakey’s Office of Innovation, a staff person that struggled with buy-in, and an individual supported. Specific technology solutions, for a wide variety of populations, will be discussed and shared with the audience.
W04 Improving Access to Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Services for OUR Older Adults. YOU Can Help!
1:00 pm – 2:15 pm
Rebecca May Cole, Executive Director, Pennsylvania Association of Area Agencies on Aging
Dale Adair, MD, Medical Director, OMHSAS
Amanda, Szurek, Deputy Director of Operations, Southwest Behavioral Health Management and Northwest BH Management
Depression, anxiety, addiction, and other mental health issues are not a normal part of aging. Individuals are sometimes told, “Of course you’re depressed; you are 80 years old.” Left untreated, behavioral health disorders can lead to physical illness and worsen existing health problems. Access to behavioral health services for many older adults is extremely limited. The loss of family and friends, trauma, isolation, and fear have been fueled by the coronavirus and have increased the number of individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, and substance use disorder. The lack of these vital services affects older adults in countless ways: reduces quality of life, jeopardizes independent living, and increases health risks. Improved prevention, intervention, screening, referral and treatment for behavioral health is needed. You can help!
W05 Investing in Your Workforce Through Competency-Based Education
1:00 pm – 2:15 pm
Stephanie LaPuma, PhD, MBA, MA, CLC, Associate Dean of Health Professions, Western Governors University
Ann Greiman, MOL, PMP, CLC, Program Chair, Masters of Health Leadership, Western Governors University
Jessica Fisher, PhD, MBA, MS, RHIA, BCPA, Program Chair, Bachelors of Science in Health Services Coordination & Care Coordination Certificate Programs, Western Governors University
Employee retention is an ongoing challenge that business leaders continue to face. Losing employees to other industries or to the competition not only increases expenses, but also negatively impacts employee morale. One solution is to offer a career roadmap that identifies educational degrees or certificates to advance your workforce. Graduates of competency-based education (CBE) can effectively contribute to an organization’s goals upon completion. In this presentation, we will describe key aspects of CBE, explain the differences between the traditional education model and CBE, and finally demonstrate the effectiveness of this learning model to improve employee retention.
W06 ACT 65 of 2020: What You Need to Know About Mental Health Consent in PA
1:00 pm – 2:15 pm
Christina Paternoster, MSEd, Director, PA Parent and Family Alliance
Tracy Palazzotto, Family Support Partner, PA Parent and Family Alliance
Participants will learn the history of the Mental Health Consent Law/ACT 65 of 2020, and why more than ever we need to learn about this law and the protections it offers. You will gain an understanding of how this updated law reaffirms that parents/guardians can consent to mental health treatment for their children.
NON-CE WORKSHOP
W07 Improving Outcomes using Medherent Medication and Remote Patient Monitoring System
1:00 pm – 2:15 pm
G. Jay Unick, MSW, PhD
Cari Guthrie Cho, LCSW-C
Dimitrios Cavathas, LCSW-C
Cathy Cassell, LCSW-C
Join University of Maryland Professor Jay Unick and executive directors of three community behavioral health organizations as they discuss how the Medherent system has reduced medication errors, improved workforce efficiency, and lead to greater medication adherence and positive clinical and business outcomes.
NON-CE Session
Thought Leader
TL02 RCPA Updates
1:00 pm – 2:15 pm
Richard Edley, PhD, President & CEO of RCPA
Jim Sharp, Children’s Division Director of RCPA
President and CEO Richard Edley will share updates on key RCPA initiatives, including the workforce crisis and activities.
W08 Magical Metaphors: Creating a Shared Language Within a CBT Treatment Setting
3:00 pm – 4:15 pm
Victoria Morgan, LCSW-C, Vice President, Partnership Development Group
Michelle Willis, LMSW, Program Director, Partnership Development Group
Are you both a therapist and a Harry Potter nerd? Did you know there’s a beautiful intersection where you can use your knowledge of the magical world to bring depth to your therapy work? Come learn to use magical metaphors as a tool to build rapport and create a shared language with therapy clients. Within a cognitive behavioral framework, metaphorical language can be useful in assisting clients in exploring and validating their emotional reactions, making sense of presenting problems, and practicing cognitive reframing skills. In this presentation you can learn how to identify the appropriate population for whom magical metaphors will be most effective and explore various metaphors for use in your current therapeutic setting.
W09 Without a Playbook: Navigating the Pandemic While Still Moving Forward
3:00 pm – 4:15 pm
Marian Baldini, MS, MBA, CEO/President, KenCrest
Most of us define fear as something which is short term; this has not been the case with the pandemic. In this session, we will explore how we managed without directions to live through these emotions and stay focused on long term goals. Furthermore, this session will explore the principles of adaptive leadership, the strategies used for continuous learning and how we thrive on gratitude. Trauma Smart practices become one of our key elements of success. As an organization, we grew together and stronger without a playbook.
W10 Enhancing Whole Health and Wellness: Working Works When Using Social Security Work Incentives
3:00 pm – 4:15 pm
Kim MacDonald-Wilson, ScD, CPRP, Senior Director, Recovery & Wellness, Community Care
Deciding to work when one has Social Security disability benefits is even more of a challenge in a pandemic. People are worried about losing benefits and access to needed health care if they choose to work, even though employment can improve one’s physical and mental health as well as financial, social, and other domains of wellness. Using a whole health and wellness framework, learn practical strategies to help people with Social Security disability benefits to become financially empowered. You do not need to be an expert in the work incentives, but you can Know the Basics and Ask the Experts in order to have the money and health coverage needed on the road to recovery and wellness.
W11 Linking Up! CANS Across the Tri-State Area, and How This Can Optimize Care
3:00 pm – 4:15 pm
Daniel Warner, PhD, Executive Director, Community Data Roundtable
The Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths (CANS) Assessment is the nation’s most popular tool for assessing child and family needs. With more than 38 states boasting full state implementations, CANS is being used to measure clinical needs and strengths, refer children and families to their proper treatments, and reduce denials and conflicts with managed care. Delaware and Maryland have large-scale, state-backed CANS initiatives, and Pennsylvania has many sizeable regional implementations. This presentation will highlight opportunities made available by these cross-state implementations in providing optimal care in our increasingly fractured child-care system. It will show how at all levels — from front-line clinicians that gain clarity on treatment needs and treatment planning, up through organizational leaders who now have a new stream of data on their population and those of their neighbors, to families that want to compare performer experience with their children’s unique needs — the use of CANS across our broad region gives opportunities for optimizing care.
W12 Creating an Employee-Centered Culture to Attract & Retain Staff
3:00 pm – 4:15 pm
Scott de Fasselle, Partner, Blitz Creative
Craig de Fasselle, Partner, Blitz Creative
(presented workshops and conferences for I/DD organizations in over 15 states)
Creating an employee-centered culture when you are spread across locations and shifts is difficult. As a leader, one wants to nurture the staff and culture. However, overwhelming schedules makes it even harder to find the time for that important process. Attendees will hear how to empower staff and make an environment where people feel valued and empowered.
W13 Mobile Buprenorphine: A Novel Method for Engaging Populations in Substance Use Disorder Care
3:00 pm – 4:15 pm
Divya Venkat, MD, Physician, Allegheny Health Network
The surge in opioid-related overdoses during the COVID-19 pandemic revealed the necessity in discovering new ways to engage persons in opioid use disorder treatment. In this workshop, we will describe our mobile buprenorphine unit. This unit was created through our local needle exchange and operated on a low-barrier prescribing basis. The goal of our unit is to engage as many individuals in treatment for opioid use disorder with the ultimate goal of transitioning patients to a clinic. We will also discuss adherence to standards in buprenorphine prescribing within Pennsylvania.
W14 Untangling the Justice Web: Ways to Engage, Intervene, and Advocate
10:45 am – 12:00 pm
Stacy Nonnemacher, PhD, Clinical Director, Office of Developmental Programs
Lindy Mishler, MS, Senior Behavioral Specialist, Office of Developmental Programs
This session will present a resource for supporters that walks through Pennsylvania’s complex justice system process. Using case examples, the presenters will highlight seven phases in the justice system process, beginning with entry into the justice system through re-entry into the community. Within each of the stages within the justice system, the presenters will discuss ways supporters can advocate for the individual and can best support them through this process.
W15 Top Funding Resources for Assistive Technology in Pennsylvania
10:45 am – 12:00 pm
Tracy Beck, Operations Director, Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation
Susan Tachau, Chief Executive Officer, Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation
David Gates
For people with disabilities and health conditions, as well as older adults, assistive technology (AT) can greatly improve quality of life. But AT can be expensive and accessing funding can be complicated, making it difficult for people to get the exact device needed, when needed, from a vendor of choice. Every year Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation (PATF) helps hundreds of people navigate the maze of programs and funding options for AT. In this session, PATF will share information on researching available funding resources, developing a funding strategy, how to braid multiple funding resources, and advocating for needed AT. Attendees will also learn helpful tips from PATF’s recently updated guide, Funding Your Assistive Technology: A Guide to Funding Resources in Pennsylvania.
W16 Measuring What Matters Most: Leveraging the Power of Business Intelligence to Drive Organizational Improvements
10:45 am – 12:00 pm
Scott Bachick, MBA, CEO, enkompas BI, LLC
Kristine Koontz, PhD, VP of Quality and Clinical Services, Keystone Human Services
Jodie Esper, MS, CFO, Mainstay Life Services
The presentation will highlight two case studies of how Human Service Providers leveraged the power of Business Intelligence (BI) to organize cross-functional data, visualize and communicate that data, and create insight and knowledge to drive organizational improvement. We will outline their journey from their organization’s initial state through the transformation to having a functional decision support system with timely information. We will review what worked, what did not work, and outline the keys to success. The presentation will also review the methods and techniques used to better understand the two cornerstones of Value-Based Healthcare (Quality and Financial Performance). This review will include deep dives into each of these areas and share how the specific solutions were structured.
W17 People Like Me: Working with Vulnerable Populations Using an Integrated Model to Behavioral Health Care
10:45 am – 12:00 pm
Sheryl Neverson, PhD, LCSW-C, LICSW, Vice President, Maryland Programs, Volunteers of America Chesapeake & Carolinas
Daniel Bochicchio, MD, FCCP, Executive Director, VOA Hope Center, Volunteers of America Chesapeake & Carolinas
To say life is a struggle, especially in these uncertain times, is an understatement. This struggle can switch from a slight burden to a crushing force that presses one to the bone. What makes these burdens even more debilitating is the feeling that people are meant to carry them alone and that seeking help to handle is a sign of weakness or failure on our part. This presentation will demonstrate how to address the needs of vulnerable populations using the CCBHC model. This presentation will show participants the strengths and lessons learned as a first year grantee. It will also show how the use of the CCBHC model can help attract and retain the most vulnerable populations in your community.
W18 How COVID-19 Changes Our View of Emergency Preparedness: Lessons Learned from COVID-19 and Key Strategies for Preparedness Moving Forward
10:45 am – 12:00 pm
Joe Tibbs, MA, Business Administration, President, HAPevolve, A Subsidiary of the Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania
COVID-19 is one of the most impactful pandemics in human history. While the future of this and future pandemics remains uncertain, there is no better time than now to understand some of preparedness gaps exposed by the pandemic, and to plan. The presenter and their organization was deeply involved in local, state, and national pandemic response efforts and will highlight key lessons learned from the pandemic and propose ways that healthcare leaders can apply these lessons to mitigate short and long term risk and improve general levels of preparedness for the future.
W19 Remote Patient Monitoring for Specialty Populations
10:45 am – 12:00 pm
Tom Morgan, CIO, Merakey
AJ Peterson, Vice President, Netsmart
Remote patient monitoring (RPM) reduces admissions to higher levels of care, especially in complex or vulnerable populations. For Merakey and its services, RPM is a critical path forward. The developmental, behavioral health, and education provider created an RPM program to support their IDD population. This Care-Center model utilizes Bluetooh-enabled, clinical-grade monitoring devices that are deployed to the home, along with an iPad. Merakey staff capture vital signs in real time and conduct assessments to ensure consumers are following the RPM program. Consumers and their families can easily see the daily care plan as well as the times they need to take their readings. That information is brought back into the Merkaey Care Center, where nurses can monitor and recommend appropriate interventions, driving better outcomes.
NON-CE Session
Thought Leader
TL03 DHS Priorities with Executive Deputy Secretary Andrew Barnes
12:30 pm – 1:00 pm
Andrew Barnes, Executive Deputy Secretary of the Department of Human Services
Richard Edley, PhD, President & CEO of RCPA
Jim Sharp, Children’s Division Director of RCPA
Join DHS Executive Deputy Secretary Andrew Barnes as he follows up on what Secretary Snead shared on Tuesday. Secretary Barnes will discuss the major initiatives during the last days of the Wolf administration, as well as rate setting, value-based purchasing, and oversight.
W20 This workshop has been cancelled
W21 Promoting Motivational Interviewing Spirit and Skills with Paraprofessional Staff
3:00 pm – 4:15 pm
Victoria Morgan, LCSW-C, Vice President, Partnership Development Group
Michelle Willis, LCSW-C, Director, Partnership Development Group
Join our team to discuss the implementation of Motivational Interviewing within your paraprofessional-heavy organization. MI spirit and MI skills can be fully embraced, regardless of one’s level of education and licensure status. The presenters will discuss how this was organized, implemented, and maintained in a staff setting of primarily non-clinicians.
W22 COVID-19 at 18 months: How the Pandemic Has Changed Us and Society
3:00 pm – 4:15 pm
Mahmood (Mike) Usman, MD, Medical Director, Beacon Health Options
Debra Luther, PhD, Vice President of Clinical Services, Beacon Health Options
This presentation provides an overview of how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted mental health needs, social determinants of health and society. In reflecting on the last 18 months we will examine how the pandemic may result in lasting effects to our members and society at large that require a different paradigm for the provision of behavioral health services and managed care.
W23 Strategies for Reducing Screen Time Fatigue
3:00 pm – 4:15 pm
Mansi Bhagwate, MS OTR/L, CPH, Occupational Therapy Specialist
In this presentation, participants will identify methods to utilize strategies and exercises to decrease screen time fatigue due to the over-consumption of virtual platforms and screens for entertainment. Exercises and ergonomic adaptations discussed in this presentation will improve physical and mental health for both participants and their family members.
W24 Behavioral Health Integration: The Pros, The Cons, and the Path Forward
3:00 pm – 4:15 pm
Jeff Capobianco, PhD, LLP, Senior Consultant, National Council for Mental Wellbeing
Samantha Holcomb, MPH, Senior Director, Practice Improvement, National Council for Mental Wellbeing
The National Council on Mental Wellbeing (formerly National Council on Behavioral Health) has conducted several studies and surveys regarding the value of coordinating care between the Physical Health and Behavioral Health MCOs. The data developed in these studies will be related to how Value Based Payment programs are affected in various states, and discuss the effectiveness, successes and failures they observed. The panel will lead a discussion about how integration supports or detracts from the successful implementation of Value Based Payments programs, and help the audience engage in the ability find opportunities when integration is available.
W25 We Hear You!
3:00 pm – 4:15 pm
Susan Harris, CADC, Treatment Services Director, Thresholds, Inc.
Giving clients a practical voice in their treatment is not an easy task, but one that is critical to sustaining change. In this workshop, one organization’s journey to do that, including the pitfalls and unexpected benefits of using a client’s feedback to guide their treatment, will be shared.
NON-CE Session
Thought Leader
TL04 The Future of Behavioral Health
10:30 am – 10:45 am
Glenn MacFarlane, President and CEO of Beacon Health Options
A short discussion with Glenn MacFarlane about the future of behavioral health.
W26 Coping Together Through COVID: Reducing Stress and Preventing Burn-Out
10:45 am – 12:00 pm
Angela Chew, LCSW, Program Director, Dickinson Center, Inc.
The pandemic has pushed us all to be creative and find ways to continue to provide services. Who supports the service provider? As we considered the needs of the consumers, we began to consider the needs of the staff. How do you identify what the staff needs and the risk of burn-out? You design a survey to target those needs and compare to the ProQoL which assesses levels of burn-out, secondary traumatic stress, and compassion satisfaction. What do you do with the information? You develop targeted training and programs of support to address the identified needs in the data and you continue to provide support to staff and improve service delivery and retention.
Handout 1 | Handout 2 | Handout 3 | Handout 4 | Handout 5 | Handout 6
W27 A Collaborative Agency-Based Approach to Implementing a Pandemic-Induced Practice-Based Change to Telehealth
10:45 am – 12:00 pm
Steven Simms, PhD, LMFT, Director, Philadelphia Child & Family Therapy Training Center
Wayne Jones, PhD, Director, Center for Family Based Training
Patricia Johnston, LSW, QCSW, BCD, Director of FBMH Institute Western Psychiatric Hospital, Family Based Mental Health Training Institute at UPMC/WPIC
The COVID-19 pandemic and resulting stay-at-home order halted in-person child mental health services for vulnerable Pennsylvania consumers and created many challenges for providers of intensive in-home services. This presentation describes a two-step collaborative process adopted by the Commonwealth’s three FBMHS training centers for helping providers to transition to telehealth and tele-supervision. The first step was to set the stage for change with an ethics-based lens. The second step was to provide concrete guidance on necessary supervision adaptations for FBMHS services, including: (a) maintaining an eco-systemic focus, (b) maintaining treatment fidelity, and (c) fostering professional competence. Clips from tele-supervision sessions are shown to illustrate the effectiveness of this two-step process.
W28 Concussion (TBI) and Behavioral Health (The Missing Peace): Where Are We Now?
10:45 am – 12:00 pm
Graham Thomas, Advocate, CEO, For IMPACT Organization
Roni Robinson, CRNP, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and Minds Matter: Concussion Care for Kids, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
Concussion (mTBI) affects millions of people annually, and there continues to be confusion and controversy regarding diagnosis, treatment, and its long-term effects. Emerging research focusing on repeated concussions and sub-concussive hits suggests that a considerable number of patients have long-term disabling neurocognitive and neurobehavioral sequelae. The Thomas family hit this head-on with the tragic loss of their son Willy Alexander “Zander” Thomas. Since then, they have been dedicating their time to educating young athletes and their families, coaches, and communities about the effects of traumatic brain injuries and behavioral health issues resulting from either a single concussion or multiple sub-concussive hits.
W29 Trauma-Informed Support for People with Intellectual Disabilities
10:45 am – 12:00 pm
Karyn Harvey, PhD, Director of Programs and Development, Park Ave Group
This workshop will provide a view of trauma from the perspective of the lives of people with intellectual disabilities. it will explore the sources of trauma, the effects of that trauma on both a biological and psychological level and the key ingredients for healing. Post-traumatic growth will be explored, and the happiness assessment will be introduced.
W30 No Longer Just a Plan – Value-Based Payments in Community HealthChoices in 2022
10:45 am – 12:00 pm
Fady Sahhar, MBA, PhD, President, XtraGlobex, Inc.
After nearly four years of Community HealthChoices, supporting MLTSS consumers has reached a “steady state,” and Pennsylvania has built in requirements for Value-Based Payments into the MCOs’ 2022 contracts. The portion of payments to be required under VBP models will increase over the next few years, to approach the 50% levels required in physical HealthChoices. We will cover the contracted elements in 2022 and the direction for future value-based contracting, as well as the various approaches being used by MCOs to deliver the requirements of their contracts. We will share the tools available for providers to measure, track, and be paid for the performance and value they add, and cover some of the innovative models for bundling services and incentives for high performance in this segment.
W31 Specialized Telemedicine for People with IDD During COVID-19 and Beyond
10:45 am – 12:00 pm
Maulik Trivedi, MD, FACEP, Chief Strategy Officer and Founder of StationMD
A specialized telemedicine service can create a safe, superior, and far less disruptive medical solution than a trip to the ER or Urgent Care. It can also fill the vast gaps in care the population with IDD is subject to. This session will educate providers and caregivers on the benefits of telemedicine during the pandemic and beyond. The right telemedicine service will not only provide high-quality care whenever needed, but it will save money, time, and stress for the individual and caregivers. Reducing ER transfers and use, especially now during COVID-19, helps to reduce the burden on our health care system and minimizes the risk of exposure to viruses.
NON-CE Session
Thought Leader
TL05 Partnering Through Crisis and Beyond
12:30 pm – 1:00 pm
Matthew O. Hurford
The unique challenges of the last 18 months have strained every aspect of the behavioral health system from workforce to technology to economics. Despite these challenges, system stakeholders have continued to support people with mental health conditions and substance use disorders through partnership, creativity and dedication. This conversation will focus on the policies and approaches that have helped us navigate these turbulent times and what we need to do collectively in the months ahead to ensure that we continue to promote recovery and resilience throughout our communities.
W32 The Path to VBP is Paved with Quality : A National Perspective on Measures of Quality in IDD Services
1:15 pm – 2:30 pm
Kimberly Sonafelt, MS, CEO, Mainstay Life Services
Sue Steege, MA, CEO, Access Services
This session will bring the experience of two CEOs involved in the ANCOR initiative to identify quality measures for use in the delivery of services to Individuals with IDD and Autism. The materials will address how the measures are directly related to the delivering value and preparing for negotiating with managed care payers.
W33 Implementing Trauma-Informed PA (TIPA): PRTFs Becoming Trauma-Informed
1:15 pm – 2:30 pm
Gordon Hodas, MD, Consulting Child Psychiatrist, PA OMHSAS
Caren Rosser-Morris, PhD, Consulting Clinical Psychologist, PA OMHSAS
As part of the statewide commitment to Trauma-Informed Pennsylvania (TIPA), OMHSAS is helping Pennsylvania PRTFs become trauma-informed. Workshop facilitators – Gordon R. Hodas MD, OMHSAS Child Psychiatric Consultant, and Caren Rosser-Morris Ph.D., Consultant Psychologist for OMHSAS – will address the following topics: • The origin and nature of TIPA, and the specific components of the TIPA/DHS TIC continuum. • The rationale for selecting PRTFs as the first mental health service level to become trauma-informed – in particular, trauma-aware by the end of 2021. • The multiple benefits of trauma-informed care. • The core elements of trauma awareness. • OMHSAS’ collaborative process with PRTFs to obtain information about trauma-informed care implementation in these organizations and to help facilities establish a trauma-aware designation, along with discussion of progress to date and proposed plans for moving forward.
W34 Post-Incarceration Care: How to Create an Effective Transitional Model
1:15 pm – 2:30 pm
Divya Venkat, MD, Physican, Allegheny Health Network
Thomas Robertson, MD, Physician, Allegheny Health Network
Persons who are incarcerated have a significantly higher rate of overdose and death within two weeks of release from a carceral setting. One identified area of improvement is improving transitions of care from the carceral setting to primary care and substance use facilities. In this workshop, we will describe our transitional care model. We will also discuss how to involve local government in such a model to motivate change within the carceral setting. Specific examples of help from local agencies that has improved care for substance use disorders within our local jail.
W35 Expanding Integrated Primary Care for People with IDD: Replicable Models and Policy Implications
1:15 pm – 2:30 pm
Tine Hansen-Turton, MGA, JD, President and CEO, Woods Services, Inc.
Kristen Farry, MS, Vice President of Policy and Government Relations, Woods Services, Inc.
Woods’ network of care will present its replicable integrated primary care model for people with IDD and medical complexities, first launched at its headquarters in Pennsylvania, and now being expanded to Salem County, NJ through a partnership with Salem Medical Center, Allies and Legacy Treatment Services. The primary care practice is based on Woods’ successful Patient-Centered Medical Home approach, and its tenets which include integrated behavioral health and care coordination. The project will establish a scalable continuum of care for people with IDD, mental and behavior challenges who cycle through ER visits, long psychiatric inpatient stays, and experience untreated or poorly managed chronic conditions in community settings. On-going supports and coordination will reduce hospitalizations and improve health and quality of life outcomes.
W36 The Unexpected Implications of the Covid 19 Pandemic
1:15 pm – 2:30 pm
Bridget Lowery, MS, CBIST, Clinical Director, NeuroRestorative PA
It is clear and well documented that the Covid 19 pandemic created many physical health complications for those who contracted the virus, but dealing with Covid also created many unexpected physical and emotional health implications for most everyone that we serve – regardless of whether they contracted the virus or not. Decreased conditioning leading to increased falls, increased vulnerability to exploitation and online scammers, increased impact on mental health issues, loss of previously developed vocational skills while businesses are closed, ability for staff to safely provide services, etc have all been impacted. This presentation will look at some of these unexpected issues and discuss ways to deal with them in programming.
Handout 1 | Handout 2 | Handout 3 | Handout 4 | Handout 5 | Handout 6 | Handout 7 | Handout 8
W37 Time Banking: A Grassroots Resource for Increased Personal Outcomes and Community Development
1:15 pm – 2:30 pm
Alli Smale, MA, Community Based Education and Leadership, CESP, Graduate of the Leadership Consortium University of Delaware | Director, Employment & Community Participation, KenCrest
Time banking provides unique and dynamic opportunities for people to gain vital work skills, develop confidence and a community identity and to build strong, positive relationships within a supportive network. These skills directly impact a person’s ability to be active community members. Time banks are non-monetary economies that believe all people have skills and strengths to share with others. Time bank members offer their skills to other members and in return can have their needs met by a fellow member. Time banking is a non-traditional, grassroots method of improving outcomes. This session will aim to illustrate how time banking impacts personal outcomes, how to leverage participation in time banking and how to start time banking initiatives in your own communities.
NON-CE WORKSHOP
W38 Understanding Measurement Based Care and Key Strategies for Seamless Implementation
1:15 pm – 2:30 pm
Jeremy Weisz, CEO, Greenspace Mental Health
The significant benefits of Measurement Based Care (MBC) have been proven in research and its proliferation in clinical practice is growing. There have been game-changing technological strides made over the last few years to help enable the widespread adoption of MBC, allowing for positive transformation of the way that mental healthcare is accessed, measured and delivered.
In this hands-on workshop, Jeremy Weisz, CEO of Greenspace Mental Health, will provide an overview of MBC, speak to its current body of research, and run an interactive session for Clinical Directors and Clinicians discussing the keys to a seamless implementation.
NON-CE WORKSHOP
D01 Implementing a Comprehensive Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Workforce Strategy: A Candid Conversation
Kate Gallagher, MNM, COO, Advanced Metrics
Michelle Corpus, BS, Junior Software Engineer, Advanced Metrics
Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workforce are ideals that many companies aspire to. Yet, achieving these goals is often challenging (Pedulla, 2020). For Advanced Metrics, implementation of a remote and virtual workplace illuminated underlying rifts related to DEI and the associated micro stresses experienced. To address this, Advanced Metrics undertook a thoughtful process including SWOT analysis, Strategic Planning and outlining specific measurable DEI goals. Through the presentation of a case study, the development of a workplace DEI strategy will be discussed and practical recommendations as to how to initiate this process will be provided.
D02 Home Modifications Come in Many Different Sizes
Kara Yost, MSOT, Manager of Statewide Programs, Self-Determination Housing of PA, a Program of Inglis Community Services
Barbara Huggins, Self-Determination Housing of PA
Accessible home modifications are essential for older adults and people with disabilities to function independently at home and in the community. Home modifications come in many different forms and at all different price points, so it is important for providers to know how to navigate the system and seek professional help whenever possible. The purpose of this presentation is to demonstrate the growing need for home modification services and resources due to an aging population and explore the common functions of home modifications. We will also discuss the legal rights of tenants and housing providers related to home modifications and provide several helpful funding resources.
D03 Providing Emotional Supports for People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities During Times of Loss
Robin VanEerden, MS, LPC, NADD-CC, Clinical Director, Merakey
Michael May, EdD, BCBA, LPC, NADD-CC, Clinical Director, Merakey
Despite the critical importance of providing grief and loss supports to people with intellectual disabilities, these interventions are too often overlooked. In addition, cognitive, adaptive, and communication barriers, have the potential to exacerbate the impact of a loss. Throughout this presentation, a variety of therapeutic interventions will be introduced and demonstrated. Examples of such activities will be reviewed through case studies. The abstract concepts of loss and hope, will be included to further develop and understand the path of the grieving process. Finally, a variety of resources based on individualized interests and preferences will be provided that will meet the needs of a wide range of abilities.
D04 The Subconscious Hail Mary: Creating your Mental Edge through your unique Emotional Intelligence and Spiritual Currency
Jennifer Watson, Master of Physical Therapy, Integrative Manual Therapist/Practitioner Certified, Health Coach Certified, President/CEO, Jennifer Watson Leadership
This powerful presentation will go through concepts and tools addressing: amygdala hijack–> frontal lobe activation during adversity—> peak performance in wellness & beyond (creating consistency & reliability in performance) . It is important to understand emotional intelligence and tools to optimize your health, your leadership, and your legacy. This session will take E.I. to the next level in leading teams to epic communication, productivity and accomplishments. Finally, discussing what it means to be truly well and the secret of how to amp up quickly and sustain effectively by tapping into spiritual currency which is the fourth component of wellness.
D05 Domestic Violence Lessons Learned: 30 Years of Takeaways for Helpers and Advocates
Julie Owens, Certified Domestic Violence Victim Advocate II,Certified Victim Service Practitioner | Violence Against Women Expert Consultant, Julie Owens Consulting
The presenter, a survivor of domestic violence attempted murder and longtime expert consultant, will share a wide range of lessons learned, and nuggets of wisdom taken away from, her 30 plus years working with victims and survivors in a variety of capacities.Topics to be addressed include victim advocacy imperatives, the importance of avoiding a rescue mentality, tips for honing one’s listening and assessment skills, and the value of a partnership approach, Additionally, she will outline ways she learned to stay self-aware and avoid the burnout and compassion fatigue that frequently result from working with victims of violence and other trauma survivors. A wide variety of resources that inspired her purpose and informed her work along the way will also be identified and discussed.
D06 This workshop has been cancelled
D07 Recovery is Beautiful
Mandy Fauble, PhD, LCSW, Director of Clinical Care Services, UPMC Western Behavioral Health at Safe Harbor
Jessianne Montie, LPC CAADC, Program Manager, UPMC Western Behavioral Health at Safe Harbor
Vicki Church, Certified Recovery Specialist, UPMC Western Behavioral Health at Safe Harbor
Hillary Palczer, Certified Recovery Specialist, UPMC Western Behavioral Health at Safe Harbor
In this workshop, a team of recovery specialists and substance use disorder providers will describe how recovery specialists help build recovery capital. Together, we will describe how to expand recovery capital, strategies for deploying recovery based language within substance use disorder programs, stigma reduction, and ways to promote recovery as beautiful.
D08 Addressing the Implications of Antiracist Stance in Behavioral Health
Dora Eaton, MBA, MS, LPC, Director of Clinical Operations, Children’s Mobile Crisis, & Intervention Services, Elwyn
John Muehsam, PhD, LSW, CAADC, CPRP, Sr. Director of Outpatient and Recovery Services, Elwn
The goal of this presentation is to explore and discuss the theoretical framework for social structures and the impact of racial trauma through the lens of individual, institutional, and cultural perspectives. Participants will explore how these types of trauma impact health equality in providing care for others. Learners will discuss how implicit bias, experiences, and power differential impact the provision of care. Strategies for developing a plan to create actionable information to address racism and implicit bias will be provided.
D09 Taking a Laughter Break for the Health of It
Noreen Braman, CLYL, CLWI, Educator, Workshop Presenter, The Smile Side of Life Laughter & Happiness Club
Anthropologists now believe that laughter is a survival mechanism existing in humans, even before language or a sense of humor is developed. Laughter is so powerful, it can both lift up the oppressed when used for healing or take down oppressors when used as a weapon. This session explores that two-edged sword description of laughter as well as introduces the concept of laughter as a well-being exercise that does not rely on jokes or humor.
D10 Navigating Treatment in a Pandemic for Individuals Diagnosed With Fragile X
Marcy Schuster, PsyD, Psychologist, Elwyn
Participants will learn through discussion, case examples, and data about the defining features of Fragile X Syndrome as well as other genetic syndromes associated with Intellectual Disability. Information regarding Elwyn’s genetics clinic and relationship with the National Fragile X Foundation will be explored. Participants will learn effective treatment strategies and how syndromic information can guide treatment.
D11 Exploring Virtual Treatment in Times of COVID-19
Kimberly Ernest, PhD, LPC, Executive Vice President, Pennsylvania Counseling Services, Inc.
In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, agencies across the country shifted from in-person to telehealth with little warning and preparation. Many continued to provide services in person, via telehealth platforms, and with a hybrid of these two versions since the onset of the pandemic. However, little research is presently available exploring the compatibility of varying methods of service provision, nor a wealth of research supporting telehealth services. This presentation will review the limited existing research and provide an overview of exploratory data gathered during the pandemic. The evidence supports provision of services via telehealth as comparable in outcomes to in-person services for both drug and alcohol and mental health treatment. The preliminary evidence is promising for the future of telehealth services within behavioral health.
D12 Diversity & Inclusion and YOU!
Stacey Nybeck, MBA, JMT Certified Leadership Trainer & Coach, Chief Operating Officer, Serve, Inc.
“The beauty of the world lies in the diversity of its people.” Diversity is about more than the law and HR, or race and ethnicity. It also includes culture, religion, age, gender, orientation, and abilities. Diversity and inclusion are ultimately a personal conviction. Knowing the natural role you play in building diverse and inclusive environments is essential to bringing about lasting change in our workplaces and our world. As leaders, we must cast the vision for our organization. We can’t have a “wait and see” approach or watch from the sidelines. This session will help you self-identify the role you play and help you understand how each person as an individual is an integral part in this bigger picture.
D13 Architecture: Aligning All Forces to the Vision
Marian Baldini, MA, MBA, President, CEO, KenCrest
Aurora Kripa, MBA, MPA, Chief Human Resources Officer, KenCrest
Pam Schuessler, BS, Chief Operating Officer, KenCrest
In summer 2017, KenCrest launched the first strategic plan to unify multiple corporations towards one vision. Little did we know how hard it would be and what tools we would need to acquire to bring our vision to life. In this session, we will tell the story of our alignment journey, how we worked on culture, structure, and process while launching a new strategy. We will discuss the language which propelled us and the language we had to leave behind.
D14 Dear Helga is Back… And Her Employees Are At It Again!
Michael Cohen, JD, Partner, Duane Morris LLP
We’ve all said it: “I would write a book, but who would believe these stories are true?” Unfortunately, many of the tales are far too real! Whether the situation involves the importance of empathy, conducting complicated investigations, or more, the legal workplace has become far more complicated to manage. This fast-paced 60-minute session will focus on uncommon HR issues and examine practical, business-focused solutions that you can use immediately to solve those problems.
D15 Now Any Provider Agency Can Become a Remote Support Provider
Dustin Wright, Co-Founder, NextGen Assistive Technology, Inc.
Join us to learn about NextGen’s Remote Support platform that is designed to give I/DD service providers cutting-edge do-it-yourself remote support capabilities that would otherwise be out of reach. NextGenAT’s all-inclusive RS platform includes all the hardware, software, cloud infrastructure, training, and support needed for the local I/DD service provider to quickly, easily, and safely begin providing RS to the people they serve. This paradigm shifting, platform as a service approach, eliminates financial, technical, and knowledge barriers that prevent I/DD provider agencies from offering this 21st century option of support to their clients in a 2021+ COVID-19 environment and beyond. Now, any/all provider(s) can provide remote supports without having to subcontract it out to another agency.
NON-CE WORKSHOP
D16 Addressing Social Media Challenges for Those Living With I/DD
Greg Wilson, Founder, CEO, aSuggestion
aSuggestion is a platform designed to draw forth meaningfully-moderated anonymous commentary from employees and customers alike. The solution is ideally suited to gathering and sharing feedback across staff and management to voice concerns, learn from one another, and improve company culture. While incredibly valuable in its own right, this same moderated and anonymous communication vehicle can extend to mental and behavioral health agency service recipients and family members just as easily as it does their staff. Current conversations and initiatives surrounding people with intellectual and developmental disabilities include the importance of social inclusion, independence, and making safe, sustainable connections in the communities in which they work and live. Unfortunately, we know countless examples of individuals with I/DD attempting to make social connections or seeking advice in inclusive environments (i.e. Facebook) and not having success. Individuals often need trained guidance on the appropriate ways to navigate these challenging situations. In light of recent social restrictions, connecting with peers and guides via virtual and/or social media platforms has become much more prevalent. We’re here to help.
D17 Strategy to Disseminate a Behavioral Health Home in Distinct Populations
Jaspreet Brar, MBBS, MPH, PhD, Community Care, UPMC
Leslie Washington, Program Director of Physical and Behavioral Health, UPMC
Community Care has implemented an evidence-based BHHP model for more than 50 mental health providers across Pennsylvania. Components of the model include provider-supported care using a wellness nurse and coaches to support care coordination, wellness coaching, and health education, as well as self-directed care using health-focused self-management tools to promote service-user activation in care. The model has been scaled for special populations, including individuals receiving treatment at Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) treatment facilities and Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facilities (PRTF). Individuals with modifiable risk factors, such as increased body weight and smoking, are engaged by wellness coaches to improve their health outcomes. This approach, or the “wellness coaching” program, allows individuals to prioritize areas of physical health most important to them and create incremental SMART goals to improve it. Wellness coaches provide education and support and connect individuals to relevant resources.
D18 This workshop has been cancelled
D19 This workshop has been cancelled
D20 Leadership and Emotional Intelligence: Part 1
John Amato, MEd, Director, Training, and Consultation Services, Familylinks, Inc.
Tune into the importance of emotional intelligence and interpersonal relationships in the workplace. Connecting with colleagues and employees on a genuine level is a direct result of high emotional intelligence and leads to a better working relationship and leadership skills. Find out how self-awareness, social awareness, self-management, and social skills influence the way people handle themselves and their relationships.
D21 Leadership and Emotional Intelligence: Part 2
John Amato, MEd, Director, Training, and Consultation Services, Familylinks, Inc.
Tune into the importance of emotional intelligence and interpersonal relationships in the workplace. Connecting with colleagues and employees on a genuine level is a direct result of high emotional intelligence and leads to a better working relationship and leadership skills. Find out how self-awareness, social awareness, self-management, and social skills influence the way people handle themselves and their relationships.
D22 A Primer on Criminogenic Risk Factors for Mental Health Professionals
Jim Fouts, MSW, LSW, Director, Forensic System Solutions
Approximately 20% of inmates in jails and 15% of inmates in state prisons are believed to live with SMI, compared to 5.2% of the general population. most current interventions are centered on what happens after the person becomes involved with the Criminal Justice System (CJS). What can Mental Health professionals do to prevent folks with SMI from becoming involved with the CJS in the first place? Understanding what puts a person at risk for CJS involvement and identifying the potential consequences of living with SMI that heighten those risk factors is critical. This workshop will offer an introduction to the “Big 8″ Criminogenic Risk Factors and identify how the social consequences of living with SMI increase the risks of CJS involvement.