Products and Resources Catalog

Practical Skills in Prevention: A Series Focused on Soft Skills When it comes to building workforce capacity, some fields overlook the importance of practical or “soft skills” as they are not as tangible as technical or “hard skills.” Soft skills are abilities that relate to how you work and interact with others. Soft skills are transferable, and useful in every domain of life. Soft skills enable you to collaborate, build relationships, and enhance productivity. For prevention professionals, strong communication skills instill confidence to engage with communities, foster meaningful connections and strengthen relationships. Developing soft skills may take time but is essential for advancing in the modern prevention workforce.   Supplemental Resources: Presentation Slides Exploratory Questions to Increase Contact Worksheet (Prosper & Partners) Identifying Group Belonging Worksheet (Prosper & Partners)   Session 1: Nurturing a Sense of Belonging The goal of this webinar is to explore the concept of belonging in our communities and its application in the prevention field. Dr. Kelly-Ann writes that a sense of belonging, "is a fundamental human need that predicts numerous mental, physical, social, economic and behavior outcomes." If this is true, do we have a responsibility to make sure everyone in our communities feels like they belong? What's the individual community member's responsibility? This interactive session explored these questions and how forms of exclusion can lead to substance use/misuse. Participants were placed in breakout groups to discuss and brainstorm strategies to recruit and retain diverse community members to lead prevention initiatives.   Learning Objectives: Define what is meant by "a sense of belonging" Analyze past recruitment and retention efforts and their effectiveness  Design a preliminary recruitment action plan   Presenter: Colber Prosper, M.S. Colber Prosper, M.S., is the CEO of Prosper & Partners International Consulting Firm, LLC and authored the book title, No Entry Examining the Powers that Undermine our Full Potential. Colber is an expert in various areas like education, organizational development, community public health and prevention. However, all of this work is centered around building community and creating inclusive spaces for all. He is passionate about spirituality, social justice, humans and South Florida sport teams.      

  Is your organization as welcoming and responsive to the LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer) population as it could be? How can we facilitate more affirming and effective prevention services for members of the LGBTQ+ community? In this webinar, we will explore some of the ways we can increase positive outcomes with LGBTQ+ individuals, from outward-facing initial points of contact with our organizations to long-term internal actions toward increased representation and leadership.  We will also hear from a panel of LGBTQ+-identified young adults about their experiences with prevention providers and their thoughts for the field moving forward.   LEARNING OBJECTIVES: After the training, participants will be able to: Review their own workplace practices with an eye to where processes could be made more welcoming and affirming Implement workplace practices that have been shown to increase positive behavioral health outcomes for LGBTQ+ individuals Integrate the perspectives of individual LGBTQ+-identified young adults into their prevention work   PRESENTER: Marissa Carlson, MS, CPS Marissa is the Executive Director of the NH Teen Institute, a leadership development nonprofit working with middle & high school students from around NH & New England in a variety of areas including substance misuse prevention, peer mentoring, and creating positive school & community climate.   As part of her role at TI, she oversees and facilitates training for youth participants, youth & adult volunteer program staff, and outside behavioral health and education professionals.  She is a trainer for multiple workshops developed through SAMHSA systems, and is a member of the advisory council of the New England Prevention Technology Transfer Center (PTTC).  In addition, she is the President of the Prevention Certification Board of NH, the NH Prevention delegate to the IC&RC, and serves as the chairperson of the Prevention Specialist credentialing committee.  Outside of her prevention work, Marissa is a founding member of Mill City Productions, a theatre company in Western Massachusetts.  She graduated from Pomona College with a BA in Psychology, received an MS in Nonprofit Management from Bay Path University, and has been a Certified Prevention Specialist since 2011.    

The Central East Prevention Technology Transfer Center is excited to announce the 15th episode of our weekly podcast: Walking in Wellness. This series is dedicated to empowering prevention professionals like you with the mindset and skill set necessary to prioritize wellness...every day. This weekly podcast can be accessed via Soundcloud or Spotify. Be sure to follow or subscribe to have episodes delivered weekly!   

As the Director and Chief Research Scientist at The Montana Institute, Dr. Jeff Linkenbach has developed national award-winning programs that change community norms. Jeff holds a Doctor of Education with a focus on community education, a master’s degree in counseling and has over the past 30 years of experience in public health leadership. He is a co-investigator of the HOPE (Healthy Outcomes from Positive Experiences) study at the HOPE Center at Tufts School of Medicine and a past Fellow at the Mansfield Academy for Global Leadership at The University of Montana.   In 1998, Jeff created the National Conference on The Social Norms Approach to Prevention, which has since transformed into the renowned Montana Summer Institute on Positive Community Norms. Jeff also founded the Center for Health & Safety Culture at the Western Transportation Institute and is the developer of the Science of the Positive and Positive Community Norms frameworks, which have been utilized by tribal, federal, state, and local organizations to achieve positive change and transformation around issues such as child maltreatment, substance abuse, suicide and traffic safety.  Jeff is known for translating social norms science into practical applications and has trained others to implement effective norms interventions across North America. For the past sixteen years, he has led Positive Community Norms implementation across the state of Minnesota, which has resulted in significant reductions in teen alcohol and other substance abuse. Jeff was a member of the Center for Disease Control & Prevention’s Knowledge-to-Action (K2A) think tank on Essentials for Childhood and was commissioned by the CDC to write a supplemental paper on Promoting Positive Community Norms. He has served as a consultant and trainer for numerous prestigious organizations such as the U.S. White House (Office of National Drug Control Policy), the Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration, The Canadian Agriculture Safety Association, The U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Harvard University, The American Medical Association, The National Football League, and many others. Email: [email protected] Web site: www.montanainstitute.com  

Shanelle Moore recently completed the Building Our Leadership and Diversity (BOLD) Prevention Fellowship Program which was established to focus on increasing the number of prevention scientists working within Black/African American communities. Shanelle represented the Mid-America PTTC through this process, and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Public Health from University of Missouri. Shanelle describes her purpose in life as being the voice for the underserved populations in the face of adversity.  She was born and raised in Chicago, IL. and since relocating to Columbia, MO she’s developed a love for helping people and found that to be her area of passion.  The funder of this project, along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA. The Mission of the African American Behavioral Health Center of Excellence is to address the need for greater equity and effectiveness in behavioral health services for African Americans. The center is determined to help transform behavioral health services for African Americans. To learn more visit - https://africanamericanbehavioralhealth.org View Shanelle's Paper  Read about Fellow Participants

Nashville based author and speaker Trish Luna needed the story more than 30 years ago for her then-very young children Nick and Sami as their father struggled with substance use disorder (SUD), a struggle that eventually took his life. Trish knows first-hand that shame, stigma, and chaos that comes from dealing with a loved one’s addiction, which can impact generations to come. Trish has a master’s degree in philosophy and ethics from Vanderbilt University and has a diverse professional background, and “Lambi Talks About Addiction’ A Book About Prevention” continues her life’s work. She remains an in-demand speaker at school’s, court programs, treatment centers, non-profits, and professional conferences. For additional information and resources, please visit www.lambilearns.com or email [email protected] The funder of this project, along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA. ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) are strongly associated with a wide range of health problems that can persist throughout a person’s lifespan. To learn more about Adverse Childhood Experiences and the Role of Substance Misuse Prevention, download a resource guide from the Strategic Prevention Technical Assistance Center (SPTAC): https://www.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/sptac-ace-role-of-substance-misuse-prevention.pdf

Dr. Emily Kline is a clinical psychologist and assistant professor of psychiatry at Boston University School of Medicine. She serves as the Director of Psychological Services for the Wellness and Recovery After Psychosis team and leads the Motivational Interviewing for Loved Ones lab at Boston Medical Center. Her research focuses on early course psychosis, adolescent and young adult mental health, and parent-focused interventions. Dr. Kline is the author of The School of Hard Talks: How to Have Real Conversations with Your (Almost Grown) Kids and the creator of The School of Hard Talks Online. She has published dozens of articles appearing in a range of peer-reviewed scholarly journals, textbooks, and popular magazines, and she has spoken with audiences all over the world about mental health and interpersonal communication. Dr. Kline completed her bachelor’s degree at Haverford College, her master’s and doctoral degrees at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, and her clinical and post-doctoral training at Harvard Medical School. She lives in Boston with her family. Email: [email protected] Web sites: www.dremilykline.com  www.learnaboutmilo.com  Socials: Instagram   Linkedin E-course: The School of Hard Talks Book: The School of Hard Talks The funder of this project, along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA. Talk, They Hear You is a   national youth substance use prevention campaign that help parents and caregivers, educators, and community members get informed, be prepared, and take action to prevent underage drinking and other substance use. To learn more, visit https://www.samhsa.gov/talk-they-hear-you

Recording: A Focus on Coalition Best Practices      This 90-minute webinar will provide attendees with a deeper understanding of how and why we use coalitions in substance misuse prevention efforts. We will focus on research-based best practices for coalition functioning, structure, membership, and leadership.  Participants will engage in discussion on their experiences, successes, and challenges in community coalition work in their area.     LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Define coalitions Describe why coalitions are essential to prevention List research-based best practices for coalitions Understand the importance of a diverse coalition that reflects the community population     PRESENTERS:  Erin Ficker Erin Ficker serves as a prevention manager for the Great Lakes PTTC. For more than 16 years, Erin has worked in substance abuse prevention supporting communities to use evidence-based strategies and data-driven processes in substance abuse prevention planning and implementation.  She works with community level prevention practitioners and schools in the development, implementation, evaluation, and sustainability of prevention interventions. Michelle Majeres  Michelle Majeres is a senior prevention specialist with over 18 years in the field and lives in South Dakota. She is an experienced trainer in substance misuse prevention, suicide prevention and mental health promotion. Michelle is trained to deliver several evidence-based prevention programs.  She brings extensive experience as a trainer and technical assistance (T/TA) provider. Michelle holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology with an emphasis on Social Work and Human Resources from South Dakota State University. She is also a Certified Prevention Specialist.  

The Central East Prevention Technology Transfer Center is excited to announce the 14th episode of our weekly podcast: Walking in Wellness. This series is dedicated to empowering prevention professionals like you with the mindset and skill set necessary to prioritize wellness...every day. This weekly podcast can be accessed via Soundcloud or Spotify. Be sure to follow or subscribe to have episodes delivered weekly!   

Xylazine: What We Know About the Latest Substance Trend Josh Esrick, MPP, Emily Patton, MSc, PgDip, and Deborah Nixon Hughes, LCSW-C October 18, 2023, 12:00pm-1:30pm EST COURSE DESCRIPTION Xylazine is an emerging issue across the United States, often used in conjunction with opioids and other substances. Public health professionals must be aware of Xylazine’s effects and how it complicates efforts to prevent and treat other substance use. This presentation summarizes the available research and data on xylazine use. LEARNING OBJECTIVES Discuss the available data on xylazine use and consequences in the United States Describe the impacts of xylazine use Explain harm reduction strategies related to xylazine use Recommend strategies for developing a culturally responsive and relevant public health approach to xylazine use PRESENTERS Josh Esrick, MPP is the Chief of Training and Technical Assistance at Carnevale Associates, LLC. Mr. Esrick has over ten years of experience researching, writing, evaluating, and presenting on substance use prevention and other behavioral health topics. He is an expert in providing training and technical assistance (T/TA) in substance use, having overseen the development of hundreds of T/TA products for numerous clients, including six of SAMHSA’s ten regional Prevention Technology Transfer Centers (PTTCs), the PTTC Network Coordinating Office, the Central East Addiction Technology Transfer Center (ATTC) and Mental Health Technology Transfer Centers (MHTTC), and SAMHSA’s Center for the Application of Prevention Technologies (CAPT). These trainings and products have covered a wide range of topics, including strategic planning, data collection and analysis, and identifying evidence-based prevention interventions for youth. In addition to T/TA, Mr. Esrick has directly provided many of these services to behavioral health agencies and other entities. He has published several academic journal articles. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the State University of New York at Buffalo and a Master of Public Policy from George Washington University.     Emily Patton, MSc, PgDip holds a Masters of Science in Abnormal and Clinical Psychology from Swansea University and a Postgraduate Degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice from the University of Edinburgh. She offers significant professional experience in the fields of public policy development and analysis, criminal justice research, data collection and analysis, program development, and performance management.         Deborah Nixon-Hughes, LCSW-C, is the Project Director for the Central East Prevention Technology Transfer Center (PTTC). She is responsible to use proven technology transfer strategies and practices to promote the adoption and implementation of evidence-based prevention and early intervention approaches. Debbie will be the spokesperson and liaison to federal, regional, state and local entities; academic institutions; and prevention, treatment, and/or recovery agencies. Deborah is responsible to identify prevention needs through engaging and collaborating with primary care providers; individuals experiencing behavioral health challenges and their families; and other community stakeholders/systems. As a result, she recommends and coordinates workforce trainings and technical assistance initiatives that can address the needs identifies, and thus reduce the effect of mental and substance use disorders on the health of individuals, their families, and their communities.  

The Central East Prevention Technology Transfer Center is excited to announce the 13th episode of our weekly podcast: Walking in Wellness. This series is dedicated to empowering prevention professionals like you with the mindset and skill set necessary to prioritize wellness...every day. This weekly podcast can be accessed via Soundcloud or Spotify. Be sure to follow or subscribe to have episodes delivered weekly!   

Webinar: Honoring Culture in Prevention - Cultural Interactions, Awareness, & Responsiveness Training   The goal of this webinar is to increase prevention professionals' understanding of how cultural humility and cultural standards can improve interactions with a variety of audiences. Participants will explore cultural humility and how to apply it, and the National Enhanced CLAS Standards (Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services in Health and Health Care), in their profession.   Supplemental Resources: Presentation Slides An Implementation Checklist for the National CLAS Standards National Standards for Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services (CLAS) in Health and Health Care CLAS ACTION PLANNING Worksheet   Learning Objectives: To apply cultural humility and the National Enhanced CLAS Standards (Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services in Health and Health Care). Practice methods to overcome hurdles and avoid misunderstanding in cross-cultural communication, service delivery, and community engagement.   Presenter: Michael Browning, nationally recognized public health and Substance Abuse Disorder program developer, policy analyst, and trainer, has a passion for constituent-led community advocacy. He has provided support to several governmental agencies by providing alcohol, tobacco, and other drug prevention proven practices in capability building, training, and day-to-day technical assistance to assist the departments in planning, grantee support and technical assistance and community engagement. Including and not limited to: US Federal government, State of California, District of Columbia, Atlanta, County of Los Angeles, Kern County, the County of San Bernardino, and other CA counties. He is a proven grant writer and program developer. He was a senior administrative analyst for the University of California, Berkeley - Institute for the Study of Social Change (now: Institute for the Study of Societal Issues, Prevention by Design. He is currently the Interim president of the Insight Center for Community economic Development. Browning was an executive director of a non-profit community coalition and deputy director at another. He has over 35 years of local, state, and national substance use disorder (SUD) prevention and tobacco control and prevention, early intervention and treatment, youth services, community organization, early childhood education, violence prevention, HIV/AIDS, public health, cultural proficiency development, program planning, development and evaluation, public policy advocacy, and strategic planning experience. His former employers include community-based programs in Pasadena, Inglewood, Los Angeles, and Michigan. Browning provided direct support to President Jimmy Carter’s “The Atlanta Project” and the Hilton Foundation’s Project Alert. Browning was a master trainer at CADCA for over 20 years. He is the former president of the Van Nuys Neighborhood Council, member of LAPD’s Van Nuys Division Community Police Advisory Board, health chair of the San Fernando Valley NAACP, and chair of the USC COVID-19 Community Advisory Board. Browning is a graduate of the University of Southern California and was a fellow at Boston University.

The Central East Prevention Technology Transfer Center is excited to announce the 12th episode of our weekly podcast: Walking in Wellness. This series is dedicated to empowering prevention professionals like you with the mindset and skill set necessary to prioritize wellness...every day. This weekly podcast can be accessed via Soundcloud or Spotify. Be sure to follow or subscribe to have episodes delivered weekly!   

Strategic Tools: Using Logic Models for Organizational Planning and Evaluation Part 1: Introduction to Logic Models September 26, 2023     Webinar Description Join us for this two part webinar series. This training will prepare participants to conduct data-informed program planning and evaluation using logic models as a part of their strategic planning process. We will learn about logic models and the ways that they guide planning and programming. We will touch on types of data, data storage and prep, and data analysis. We will wrap up with components of a strategic plan, including an evaluation plan, and how to incorporate a strategic plan into all aspects of organizational operations.    Webinar Objectives In this webinar, participants will: Recognize how and when to use logic models for program planning and program evaluation Identify data types and data sources, and how to format, store, and analyze for evaluation Understand the components of a strategic plan, and how to utilize that plan for continuous improvement   Webinar Recording and Slides Strategic Tools: Using Logic Models for Organizational Planning and Evaluation - Part 1 Recording Strategic Tools: Using Logic Models for Organizational Planning and Evaluation - Part 1 slide deck (PDF)   Additional Resources View Part 2: Incorporating Logic Models into Strategic Plans Click here to view References and Suggested Reading (PDF) Worksheets: Logic Model Worksheet (Word Doc) Goals and Outcomes Worksheet (Word Doc) Needs Assessment Worksheet (Word Doc) Organizational Inputs Worksheet (Word Doc) Theory of Change Worksheet (Word Doc)   Presenter Dr. Ashley Hall, PhD, MSW Dr. Hall is an Assistant Professor with the Washington State University Extension 4-H Program. Her experience includes strategic planning for both academic and nonprofit organizations. She teaches skills related to strategic planning including survey development, data creation, storage, analysis, and visualization, as well as evaluation and reporting for internal and external stakeholders.   Questions Contact Kathy Gardner ([email protected]) if you have additional questions about the content related to this webinar.

Strategic Tools: Using Logic Models for Organizational Planning and Evaluation Part 2: Incorporating Logic Models Into Strategic Plans October 3, 2023   Webinar Description Join us for this two part webinar series. This training will prepare participants to conduct data-informed program planning and evaluation using logic models as a part of their strategic planning process. We will learn about logic models and the ways that they guide planning and programming. We will touch on types of data, data storage and prep, and data analysis. We will wrap up with components of a strategic plan, including an evaluation plan, and how to incorporate a strategic plan into all aspects of organizational operations.    Webinar Objectives In this webinar, participants will: Recognize how and when to use logic models for program planning and program evaluation Identify data types and data sources, and how to format, store, and analyze for evaluation Understand the components of a strategic plan, and how to utilize that plan for continuous improvement   Webinar Recording and Slides Strategic Tools: Using Logic Models for Organizational Planning and Evaluation - Part 2 Recording Strategic Tools: Using Logic Models for Organizational Planning and Evaluation - Part 2 slide deck (PDF)   Additional Resources View Part 1: Introduction to Logic Models Tableau for Non-Profits Click here to view References and Suggested Reading (PDF)   Presenter Dr. Ashley Hall, PhD, MSW Dr. Hall is an Assistant Professor with the Washington State University Extension 4-H Program. Her experience includes strategic planning for both academic and nonprofit organizations. She teaches skills related to strategic planning including survey development, data creation, storage, analysis, and visualization, as well as evaluation and reporting for internal and external stakeholders.   Questions Contact Kathy Gardner ([email protected]) if you have additional questions about the content related to this webinar.

Stephanie DeRosa-Hillmann, LPC, Manager – SOCIAL Network, joined the RWJBarnabas Health Institute for Prevention and Recovery in December 2017. Stephanie is a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 10 years’ experience in the fields of mental health and substance use. Stephanie received her B.A. degree in Psychology from Georgian Court University and M.S. degree in Mental Health Counseling with specialization in Substance Use from Monmouth University. Stephanie’s faith has always played a large role in her life, laying the foundation for her career and passion for serving her community. Stephanie spent much of her early career conducting assessments and providing outpatient treatment to both youth and adults. Stephanie has extensive experience in providing clinical case management services within the community. Stephanie’s passion for community engagement and motivation to reduce substance use through collective impact brought her to the Institute for Prevention and Recovery. In her work, she has guided community partners and key stakeholders through a needs assessment process identifying community needs and resources. Stephanie works to open communication and inform collaboration among community partners to best serve youth and families. Her clinical background and strong relationship with faith have come together to kick off the SOCIAL Network project. Email: [email protected]  https://www.rwjbh.org/treatment-care/institute-for-prevention-and-recovery/ https://www.facebook.com/RWJBHifpr https://www.instagram.com/rwjbh_preventionrecovery/ https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/37461221/ The funder of this project, along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA. Did you know that SAMHSA has actively engaged and supported faith-based and community organizations involved in substance use and mental health services since 1992. To learn more visit https://www.samhsa.gov/faith-based-initiatives

The Central East Prevention Technology Transfer Center is excited to announce the 11th episode of our weekly podcast: Walking in Wellness. This series is dedicated to empowering prevention professionals like you with the mindset and skill set necessary to prioritize wellness...every day. This weekly podcast can be accessed via Soundcloud or Spotify. Be sure to follow or subscribe to have episodes delivered weekly!   

COURSE DESCRIPTION This webinar discusses how LGBTQ+ adolescents are impacted by stress at the intersection of substance misuse, and explores evidence-based substance use prevention strategies that address their risk factors.  Select the View Resource button above to watch the recording. Below is the PowerPoint for this webinar. PowerPoint   PRESENTER   Jeremy Goldbach is a Masters & Johnson Distinguished Professor in Sexual Health and Education. His work is primarily focused on measuring, understanding, and intervening during experiences of minority stress and discrimination among LGBTQ+ children and adolescents. Goldbach's work has been continuously funded since 2012 by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD), the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), the Department of Defense (DOD) and through other foundations. 

The Importance of Cultural Humility in Prevention Josh Esrick, MPP, and Emily Patton, MSc, PgDip September 28, 2023, 1:00pm-2:30pm EST COURSE DESCRIPTION Culture is integral to humanity, shaping who we are, what we value, and how we see the world. Because culture plays such an important role at all levels in society, it is important for prevention professionals to understand, value, and respect other cultures. The concept of “Cultural Humility” is a lifelong commitment to self-reflection about culture, addressing inequities, and developing non-paternalistic partnerships with communities. Prevention professionals should infuse the concepts of cultural humility into all aspects of their work. This webinar will delve into the concept of cultural humility and explain why it is important to prevention. As part of this, it will discuss how to engage in partnerships with diverse communities and how to implement and evaluate culturally responsive, evidence-based programs and interventions. Lastly, the webinar will highlight a case study example of a community seeking to follow the principles of cultural humility in its prevention services. LEARNING OBJECTIVES Describe the concept of cultural humility Explain why cultural humility is important to prevention Process an example scenario of cultural humility and accompanying case study PRESENTERS Josh Esrick, MPP is the Chief of Training and Technical Assistance at Carnevale Associates, LLC. Mr. Esrick has over ten years of experience researching, writing, evaluating, and presenting on substance use prevention and other behavioral health topics. He is an expert in providing training and technical assistance (TTA) in substance use, having overseen the development of hundreds of TTA products for numerous clients, including six of SAMHSA’s ten regional Prevention Technology Transfer Centers (PTTCs), the PTTC Network Coordinating Office, the Central East Addiction Technology Transfer Center (ATTC) and Mental Health Technology Transfer Centers (MHTTC), and SAMHSA’s Center for the Application of Prevention Technologies (CAPT). These trainings and products have covered a wide range of topics, including strategic planning, data collection and analysis, and identifying evidence-based prevention interventions for youth. In addition to TTA, Mr. Esrick has directly provided many of these services to behavioral health agencies and other entities. He has published several academic journal articles. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the State University of New York at Buffalo and a Master of Public Policy from George Washington University.     Emily Patton, MSc, PgDip holds a Masters of Science in Abnormal and Clinical Psychology from Swansea University and a Postgraduate Degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice from the University of Edinburgh. She offers significant professional experience in the fields of public policy development and analysis, criminal justice research, data collection and analysis, program development, and performance management.  

The Central East Prevention Technology Transfer Center is excited to announce the 10th episode of our weekly podcast: Walking in Wellness. This series is dedicated to empowering prevention professionals like you with the mindset and skill set necessary to prioritize wellness...every day. This weekly podcast can be accessed via Soundcloud or Spotify. Be sure to follow or subscribe to have episodes delivered weekly!   

Suicide Prevention and the Aging Population Laura Hinds, MSW, LCSW September 21, 2023, 10:00am-12:00pm EST COURSE DESCRIPTION Loss of social contact, loss of loved ones, body betrayal, and increased isolation are common experiences for the elderly and can result in depression and suicidal ideation. This session supports social service providers in contemplating the risk factors and support options for caring for an elder who may be experiencing suicidality. From assessing threats, to addressing means, and engaging the elder in a safety plan, this course will offer both considerations and strategies to increase hope in this population and keep them safe. LEARNING OBJECTIVES Explain the research and its deficits related to the needs and experiences of the Aging population. Relay at least 3 risk factors providers should consider to assess the potential of suicidal ideation. Recall at least 3 interventions and strategies to support aging people in avoiding or navigating suicidal ideation. PRESENTERS Laura Hinds, MSW, LCSW, is a clinical social worker with experience in medical, behavioral and mental health settings.  Laura has had the pleasure of working with high acuity special needs populations and their providers for over 22 years.  An alumna and instructor at Penn’s School of Social Policy and Practice for 13 years, and Bryn Mawr’s School of Social Work and Social Research’s for the past 4 years, Laura has supported the learning and education of new social workers, veterans in the field, and their interdisciplinary partners.  With a focus on trauma, human and gender development, racial equity, and crisis intervention Laura supports special needs populations and those who serve them.  

    Considering the Associations Between Substance Use and Suicide September 7, 2023   Webinar Description September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. For this month's Monthly Media Series webinar, the Pacific Southwest PTTC would like to raise awareness on this preventable issue and highlight the important intersection between substance use and suicide.  In this webinar, we will consider alcohol-related risk factors for suicide, including ways in which alcohol use can impact decision making when a person is experiencing distress. We will also review the recent literature on cannabis, focusing on mental health concerns associated with the use of high-potency cannabis, as well as associations between cannabis use disorder and suicide risk. Implications for prevention, intervention, and public health will be discussed   Objectives By the end of this webinar, participants will be able to: Define “alcohol myopia” and how this relates to suicide risk. Identify a screening measure for cannabis use disorder. Describe at least one potential unwanted outcome associated with the use of high-potency cannabis. Discuss at least one implication for prevention, intervention, and public health.   Webinar Recording and Presentation Handout Considering the Associations Between Substance Use and Suicide Recording Considering the Associations Between Substance Use and Suicide Presentation Handout (PDF) *This presentation and all information contained within it is proprietary information of Dr. Jason Kilmer, Ph.D., and may not be adapted, modified, or disseminated without prior written consent of Dr. Kilmer. This presentation is intended to be used by prevention professionals for learning purposes only. This presentation is not ADA compliant.   Presenter Dr. Jason Kilmer, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor in Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the University of Washington (UW) School of Medicine and an Adjunct Associate Professor in Psychology at UW. Jason serves as an investigator on several studies evaluating prevention and intervention efforts for alcohol, cannabis, and other drug use by college students. In addition to research and teaching, he has worked extensively with college students and student groups around alcohol and other drug prevention programming and presentations throughout his career (including student athletes, fraternity and sorority members, residence life, and first-year students), both at UW and on over 125 campuses across the nation.    As faculty in the School of Medicine, Jason continues his direct work with students through presentations for intercollegiate athletics and residence life. Jason also serves as the chairperson of Washington state's College Coalition on Substance misuse, Advocacy, and Prevention (CCSAP)   Questions Contact Britany Wiele ([email protected]) if you have additional questions about the content related to this webinar.

RECORDING: The Importance of Advocacy for Prevention: What It Is and Tips for Conducting It The purpose of this webinar is to increase the understanding and skills for prevention specialists to plan, facilitate, and implement advocacy strategies to support prevention goals. Presenters will explore the distinctions between advocacy and lobbying and outline the importance of advocacy in prevention work.   LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Describe the basic principles of advocacy Explain the distinctions between advocacy and lobbying Recognize the importance of advocacy for prevention Identify the first steps necessary for developing an advocacy effort   PRESENTERS:  Josh Esrick, MPPP Josh Esrick, MPP is the Chief of Training and Technical Assistance at Carnevale Associates, LLC. Mr. Esrick has over ten years of experience researching, writing, evaluating, and presenting on substance use prevention and other behavioral health topics. He is an expert in providing training and technical assistance (TTA) in substance use, having overseen the development of hundreds of TTA products for numerous clients, including six of SAMHSA’s ten regional Prevention Technology Transfer Centers (PTTCs), the PTTC Network Coordinating Office, the Central East Addiction Technology Transfer Center (ATTC) and Mental Health Technology Transfer Centers (MHTTC), and SAMHSA’s Center for the Application of Prevention Technologies (CAPT). These trainings and products have covered a wide range of topics, including strategic planning, data collection and analysis, and identifying evidence-based prevention interventions for youth. In addition to TTA, Mr. Esrick has directly provided many of these services to behavioral health agencies and other entities. He has published several academic journal articles. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the State University of New York at Buffalo and a Master of Public Policy from George Washington University. Emily Patton, MSc, PgDIP Emily Patton, MSc, PgDip holds a Masters of Science in Abnormal and Clinical Psychology from Swansea University and a Postgraduate Degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice from the University of Edinburgh. She offers significant professional experience in the fields of public policy development and analysis, criminal justice research, data collection and analysis, program development, and performance management.    

My Guest during this episode is Sierra Thomas. She is new to the prevention world, becoming a Community Prevention Specialist in June of 2023. She previously worked as a certified elementary school counselor and continues to love helping others grow in their mental health and wellness journeys. I met Sierra at a professional development workshop, and she shared with me one of her 28 in 28 goals is to be a podcast guest, so I invited her to the Prevention Perk to chat about her leap into the prevention workforce.  She currently resides in KCMO, but hails from small town South Dakota. During this conversation I hope to learn about, “why the leap into prevention” , “what she hopes from this career path”, and most importantly about her dog Harper." The funder of this project, along with all other products of the Mid-America PTTC is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Although funded by SAMHSA, the content of this recording does not necessarily reflect the views of SAMHSA. To learn more visit www.samhsa.gov The 2023–2026 SAMHSA Strategic Plan presents a new person-centered mission and vision highlighting key guiding principles and presenting new priorities, goals, and objectives. To achieve its mission, SAMHSA has identified five priorities, including strengthening the workforce, to better meet the behavioral health needs of individuals, communities, and service providers. To view the strategic plan visit -  https://www.samhsa.gov/about-us/strategic-plan