Erie County Training Collaborative

September 22, 2026 - "Beyond the Emergency Department: Redefining Diversion in Intensive Crisis Stabilization Centers"

What does "diversion" really mean in today's behavioral health crisis system? This session challenges the traditional view that diversion is simply avoiding the emergency department and explores how Intensive Crisis Stabilization Centers create value across the entire continuum of care. Using real-world data and lessons learned from the first eight months of operating the BestResponse Intensive Crisis Stabilization Center, participants will discover practical approaches to measuring community impact, strengthening partnerships, and redefining success.

Presenters: Kevin Beckman, LMHC, CASAC and Paige Hawkins, MHC

Beyond the Emergency Department: Redefining Diversion in Intensive Crisis Stabilization Centers Presentation

July 28, 2026 - "Building Brain Healthy Habits"

Presented By: Tanya Hernandez, Bilingual Program Manager, Alzheimer’s Association

A one hour, interactive, evidence informed program focused on the Alzheimer’s Association’s 10 Healthy Habits for Your Brain, with highlights from the U.S. POINTER study. Participants will build a personalized brain healthy action plan during the session.

June 23, 2026 - "Trauma-Informed Practice and the Brief Trauma Questionnaire"

Presented By: Dede Berdine, Hope of Erie County, Primary Care Research Institute, University at Buffalo

This training provides an overview of the Brief Trauma Questionnaire (BTQ), including its purpose, scope, and role in identifying lifetime exposure to traumatic events. Participants will learn about the range of traumatic experiences captured by the BTQ, trauma-informed administration of the tool, and interpreting BTQ responses to support clinical decision-making. The training will also discuss how to integrate the BTQ into behavioral health practice and clinical and ethical considerations.

Brief Trauma Questionnaire Presentation

May 19, 2026 - "May 19, 2026, 12pm - 1pm: VA S.A.V.E. - Suicide Gatekeeper Training"

Presented By: Christopher Ramnauth, LCSW, Community Engagement and Partnership Coordinator, Suicide Prevention at the VA WNY Healthcare System

Christopher Ramnauth, LCSW (VA WNY Healthcare System) will facilitate S.A.V.E., which is a VA Suicide Prevention Training. This training helps you act with care and compassion if you come across a Veteran who is in crisis or having thoughts of suicide. The acronym S.A.V.E. helps you remember the important steps involved in suicide prevention: Spot the signs a Veteran might be thinking about suicide, Ask the critical question, Validate the Veteran’s experience and Encourage and support next steps with the Veteran.

This training was not recorded.

April 28, 2026 - "Beyond the Clutter: Understanding and Supporting Individuals with Hoarding"

“Beyond the Clutter: Understanding and Supporting Individuals with Hoarding”

Presented by: Annie L. O’Neil, NYSCP-P, Notary Public, CPMC, Mental Health Peer Connection, CORE Peer Support Specialist/Benefits Advisor

This training, explores the complex nature of hoarding behavior and its impact on individuals, families, and communities. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the psychological, emotional, and environmental factors that contribute to hoarding, while dispelling common myths and stigma.

The session emphasizes compassionate, person-centered approaches and practical strategies for engagement, communication, and intervention. Attendees will learn how to recognize signs of hoarding, assess risk, and support individuals in a respectful and effective manner, while balancing safety and autonomy.

Designed for professionals across disciplines, this presentation equips participants with the knowledge and tools needed to respond confidently and collaboratively to hoarding situations.

May 2026 Beyond the Clutter Hoarding Presentation

March 24, 2026 - "Side By Side in Grief: WNY Compassion Connection and Why It Matters"

Presented by: Gwen Mysiak, CEO of P.U.N.T. Pediatric Cancer Collaborative, Co-Founder of WNY Compassion Connection and Katerina Schlabig, WNYCC School Services Coordinator & Grief Educator

Learn more about the history, mission and program offerings of WNY Compassion Connection: A Center for Grieving Children and Families and the power of peer support in grief. This presentation will also provide compelling data and a toolbox of skills and knowledge for better supporting and understanding bereaved people.

WNYCC was established in April 2024 as a monumental expansion of the nonprofit P.U.N.T. Pediatric Cancer Collaborative's "Ultimate Compassion" program to serve any origin of loss.

WNYCC's mission is to help grieving children and adults navigate their journey to healing and resilience following a loss to death through the power of peer support and by fostering a grief sensitive community.

January 27, 2026 - "Basics of Schizophrenia"

Presented by: Joseph Rivett, MS ED, CASAC-G, Program Director of Freedom Village Residential Rehab, Horizon Health

The training will discuss how Schizophrenia is observed in patients including: presentation, positive symptoms, negative symptoms, social impairment, occupational impairment, SUD issues, and some strategies to try to help these individuals.

Basics of Schizophrenia Presentation

October 28, 2025 - "The Practice of Digital Wellness: Connecting with Reflection, Intention, and Critical- Thinking"

Presented By: Leah Jacobs is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). She is the Founder and Director of Digital Wellness Project, a multi-disciplinary initiative focused on shaping policy, advancing education, and providing resources to support healthier digital media use among youth.

“The Practice of Digital Wellness: Connecting with Reflection, Intention, and Critical-Thinking,” offers professionals a comprehensive introduction to the what, why, and how of digital wellness. Participants will explore the social-emotional risks and rewards associated with various forms of digital media, including social media, video games, pornography, and AI. The presentation will then introduce the core principles of digital wellness, providing a framework for cultivating healthier digital habits. Attendees will leave with actionable insights for promoting digital wellness in their own lives, within their families, and among the individuals and communities they serve.

The Practice of Digital Wellness Presentation

September 23, 2025 - "LGBTQ+ Inclusion and Bias"

Presented by: Marek P. Parker, MSW, Program Director, BestSelf Homeless Services

This training will give providers access to the specific information and needs of members of the LGBTQ+ community. We will discuss language, names, and terms preferred by some members, as well as those that should be avoided. We will discuss the trauma needs of this community and the intersectionality impacting some members. There will be an examination as to why this community has such specific needs and the numbers and history behind the trauma.

LGBTQ+ Inclusion and Bias Presentation

August 26, 2025 - "Coping with Grief and Loss"

Presented by: Elizabeth Leonard, LMHC, CASAC, Senior Therapist at Horizon Therapy Associates, Horizon Health Services

The presentation will focus on grief and loss, what it means to grieve and to mourn, and how it can be very different for everyone. The stages of grief, and contributions of theorists will be examined, as well as how both death and non-death losses impact us. We’ll discuss how families and culture may view grief differently, as well as best practices and behaviors for supporters of someone in mourning. Coping skills, tools, and how professionals can help will also be discussed.

Coping with Grief and Loss Presentation

July 22, 2025 - "An Introduction to the Mental Health Crisis Triage Tool"

Presented by: Deanna Schaumloeffel, Crisis Response Diversion Coordinator, Chair of Police Mental Health Coordination Project, Crisis Services; LaTonya Diggs, LMSW, CCM, Director of Clinical/Quality and Transformation, Value Network, LLC; and Sarah Bonk, LMSW, Commissioner of Mental Health Erie County, Erie County Department of Mental Health

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

• Professional and Paraprofessional's across the crisis continuum will explore levels of crisis, ways to apply the Triage tool, resources needed to make informed decisions, and know when to seek which level of care

• Increase efficiency for identifying and connecting individuals with the right level of care during their crisis

• Be provided with structured guidance assisting with the national framework for: Call, Respond and Go!

• Intends to provide common language around crisis and highlight available resources for individuals experiencing crisis get them the right care, at the right time for their specific situation

June 24, 2025 - "Cannabis 201: The Blunt Truth"

Presented by: Erin Parr MACP, CASAC-M, Horizon Health Services, SAFER Project Director

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

1. Participants will learn how cannabis impacts the brain and body across the lifespan as well as essential distinctions between recreational and medical use.

2. Participants will become familiar with cannabis safety considerations related to mental health risks, contamination concerns, safe storage, and harm reduction practices aimed to improve health and wellbeing.

3. Participants will become aware of the impact of legalization in our community as it relates to public safety, changing societal attitudes, and enforcement measures.

Cannabis 201: The Blunt Truth Presentation

May 20, 2025 - "Neurodiversity-Affirming Care: Shifting Perspectives and Practices"

Presented by: David Herring, PhD, Adriana Ragland, LMSW and Michael Schmitt

This training explores the concept of neurodiversity and the importance of fostering supportive environments. Participants will learn how to adjust their approach and language to better align with neurodiversity-affirming practices. The session will introduce practical strategies for engaging with and supporting neurodivergent individuals. Attendees will leave with actionable tools to apply in both professional and personal settings, helping to create spaces where neurodivergent individuals feel valued and understood.

April 22, 2025 - "Cannabis 101: Clear the Haze"

Presented by: Erin Parr, MACP, CASAC-M, Horizon Health Services, SAFER Project Director

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

Participants will become aware of cannabis as a mixed effect drug that is highly user specific in its effects.
Participants will learn how cannabis impacts the brain and body across the lifespan
Participants will become familiar with cannabis safety considerations related to mental health risks, contamination concerns, safe storage, and harm reduction practices aimed to improve health and wellbeing.

March 18, 2025 - "Healthy Living for Your Brain & Body: Tips From the Latest Research"

Presented by: Amanda Nobrega, LMSW, Vice President of Programs, Upstate New York, Alzheimer's Association

At any age, there are lifestyle habits we can adopt to help maintain or even potentially improve our health. These habits may also help to keep our brains healthy as we age and possibly prevent or delay the onset of cognitive decline. Join us to learn about research in the areas of diet and nutrition and exercise, as well as other exciting highlights around diagnosing, treating and preventing dementia from the 2024 Alzheimer's Association International Research Conference.

March 18, 2025 - Healthy Living for Your Brain & Body: Tips From the Latest Research Presentation

Watch March 18, 2025 - "Healthy living for Your Brain & Body"

January 28, 2025 - "Psychological First Aid Primer"

Presented by: Sarah Bonk, LMSW, Mental Health Emergency Response/Disaster Coordinator, Erie County Department of Mental Health

Psychological First Aid (PFA) as a primer begins with a clear introduction followed by a concise explanation of what PFA is and why it matters. We then explore the core principles—safety, calming, listening, connecting, and empowering—and discuss common stress reactions along with guidelines on ethical boundaries. PFA emphasizes the importance of self-care for responders, offering strategies to prevent burnout and maintain effectiveness. Ending with a wrap up summary of key points and an opportunity for Q&A to solidify understanding.

January 28, 2025 - “Psychological First Aid Primer” Presentation (coming soon!)

Watch January 28, 2025 - “Psychological First Aid Primer” Video

December 10, 2024 - "Brain Health 101: A New Frontier in the Fight Against Alzheimer’s"

Presented by: Amanda Nobrega, LMSW, Vice President of Programs, Upstate New York, Alzheimer's Association and Erica Salamida, BS, Director of Community Outreach, NYS Coalition of Alzheimer's Association Chapters

In the United States alone, nearly 7 million individuals are living with Alzheimer’s and 11 million are serving as their unpaid caregivers. The disease is a global crisis that impacts over 400,000 families statewide. The need for effective risk reduction strategies that help all communities grows larger by the day. Researchers are zeroing in on ways to fight dementia and major breakthroughs are within reach. For example, there is growing evidence that people who adopt healthy lifestyle habits and prioritize their brain health can lower their risk of dementia. This workshop will provide an overview of the basics of Alzheimer’s disease, including a review of risk factors, symptoms, stages and treatments. We will explore how Alzheimer’s has emerged as a public health issue and discuss strategies to intervene as well as helpful resources provided by the Alzheimer's Association.

**Please note that the Presentation and Video will only be available through February 28, 2025**

November 26, 2024 - "Everyone Helps Carry The Water: Ways to Minimize Burnout in the Workplace"

Presented by: Christine Slocum, MA, Housing Coordinator, Erie County Department of Mental Health

Mental Health services are provided by people, for people - maintaining our people is the key in successfully doing our meaningful, life-changing work. It's not just what we do, but how - this will discuss some practices in the workplace that research shows can contribute to less burnout.

Download November 26, 2024 - “Everyone Helps Carry The Water: Ways to Minimize Burnout in the Workplace” Presentation

October 22, 2024 - "OPWDD Front Door Information Session"

Presented by: Kathryn Donahue, Care Management Liaison; Briana Stewart, Eligibility Unit Lead; and Amanda Bishi, Housing Unit Lead from the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities

This Front Door information session will cover how people get started with OPWDD, the OPWDD eligibility process, services provided by OPWDD, and how OPWDD services are paid for. This training will start with an overview of how to get started with OPWDD through the Front Door. Then, we will cover the OPWDD eligibility review process. Finally, the training will provide an overview of OPWDD supports and services, including community-based services, assistive technology, employment services, housing options, behavioral supports, and clinic services.

September 24, 2024 - "Dark Side of Social Media – Part 2 of 2"

Presented by: Ashley Gedra, Face2Face Program Coordinator, Kids Escaping Drugs

This presentation provides adult audiences an in depth look at current popular social media trends and how they can escalate substance use and abuse among adolescents. This is a landscape that is constantly changing and evolving with technology and access. This presentation will explore additional topics and the impact of social media on adolescents. Topics will include current popular social media apps, impact those apps have on a developing mind, dangers on those apps, tricks or vaults used to hide apps, live streaming and the dangers, ghost apps, and online marketing.

Download September 24, 2024 - “Dark Side of Social Media – Part 2 of 2” Presentation

August 27, 2024 - "Preventing Targeted Violence with a Public Health Informed Approach"

Presented by: Jamey Barcomb, Regional Prevention Coordinator, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Center for Prevention Programs and Partnerships

This presentation and recording are not available, but to learn more about this topic, please visit the website:
Center for Prevention Programs and Partnerships | Homeland Security (dhs.gov)

July 23, 2024 - "Introduction to Targeted Violence"

Presented by: Jamey Barcomb, Regional Prevention Coordinator, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Center for Prevention Programs and Partnerships

This presentation and recording are not available, but to learn more about this topic, please visit the website:
Center for Prevention Programs and Partnerships | Homeland Security (dhs.gov)

May 28, 2024 - "Dark Side of Social Media - Part 1 of 2"

Presented by: Ashley Gedra, Face2Face Program Coordinator, Kids Escaping Drugs

The Dark Side of Social Media presentation provides adult audiences an in depth look at current popular social media trends and how they can escalate substance use and abuse among adolescents. This is a landscape that is constantly changing and evolving with technology and access. Topics will include current popular social media apps, impact those apps have on a developing mind, dangers on those apps, tricks or vaults used to hide apps, live streaming and the dangers, ghost apps, the dark web, and online marketing.

Download May 28, 2024 - “Dark Side of Social Media - Part 1 of 2" Presentation

There is no video recording available, but to learn more about this topic, please see the Presentation

April 23, 2024 - "The Art of Advocacy"

Presented by: BJ Stasio, Advocate and Max Donatelli, Advocate

There is a real need for more effective advocates. Many people with disabilities and mental health challenges and caring family members don’t know where to start, are overwhelmed, fearful, or ineffective, etc. Helping people find their voice is a key element of what we are hoping to accomplish. We don’t have enough effective advocates to build connections with elected officials, business types, and people in healthcare.

Download April 23, 2024 - “The Art of Advocacy” Presentation

March 26, 2024 - "IDD and Multiple Diagnoses"

Presented by: Amy Peters, MS, Chief Strategic Officer, Person Centered Services

A discussion regarding the issues surrounding people with developmental disabilities who have multiple diagnoses. Strategies and tips for advocating for people with developmental disabilities while seeking treatment will also be discussed.

Download March 26, 2024 - "IDD and Multiple Diagnoses" Presentation

**Due to some technical difficulties, the presentation was delayed and does not begin until approx. 1 minute into the video.

January 9, 2024 - "Anxiety and Panic Disorders"

Presented by: Mark O’Brien, LCSW-R, Commissioner Erie County Department of Mental Health

Understanding and coping with anxiety and panic disorders including common causes, signs and symptoms, and effective treatments.

Download January 9, 2024 - “Anxiety and Panic Disorders” Presentation

November 28, 2023 - "Preparing for Preparedness"

Presented by: Sarah A. Bonk, LMSW, Emergency Response and Disaster Coordinator for the Erie County Department of Mental Health

A conversation that explores how service providers of all disciplines can empower not only themselves but the larger community. Leaning on the tenets of psychoeducation, Sarah will discuss effective intervention techniques that are useful in engaging individuals experiencing a range of emergencies, as well as introduce the importance of service providers of all levels in how to help mitigate the impacts of a disaster. This training will expose attendees to the world of emergency management and articulate how the every day role of service providers plays a part in long term resilience.

Download November 28, 2023 - “Preparing for Preparedness” Presentation

September 26, 2023 - "Understanding Alzheimer's and Dementia"

Presented by: Claire Corwin, LMSW, Alzheimer's Association WNY

Learn basic information on the difference between Alzheimer's and dementia, stages, risk factors, research and FDA-approved treatments. Questions are welcomed during and after the program.

July 25, 2023 - "A Community Approach to Improving Minority Mental Health"

Presented by: Kelly Marie Wofford, Director of the Erie County Office of Health Equity.

Kelly Marie Wofford is the Director of the Erie County Office of Health Equity. Using her mental health journey as a guide for the discussion, participants will walk away with a better understanding around three concepts: no group is a monolith, we are all "community," and we are all needed to do this work.

June 29, 2023 - "CQI 101"

Special Offering!

Presented by: Christa Foschio-Bebak, JD MSW is the Director of Quality Improvement & Training at CCNY Inc. CCNY provides a comprehensive spectrum of services that range from data evaluation and analytics to quality improvement and training.

This training offers an overview of the fundamentals of implementing quality improvement. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the difference between quality assurance and quality improvement, the importance of identifying and monitoring relevant and meaningful outcome measures along with providing examples of how to use specific QI tools and templates in order to develop and execute a quality improvement plan. Opportunities for discussion will be available throughout the session.

June 20, 2023 - "Cultural Humility & Gender-Affirming Care 101"

Presented by: Jennifer Loughran (she/her/hers), LMSW, Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Belonging, Horizon Health Alliance

In recognition of Pride Month, this training will provide an overview of cultural humility and gender-affirming care. In addition to reviewing some common terminology central to the LGBTQIA+ community, this training will also discuss some barriers and challenges faced by those who part of the community, share about the positive impact of providing gender-affirming care, and provide some best practices on how to provide gender-affirming care.

May 23, 2023 - "Self-Care: The Mind Body Connection"

Presented by: Melinda DuBois, MSW, Executive Director of Mental Health Advocates

How often do you take the time to practice your own self-care? Right now, rates of depression and anxiety have increased dramatically, and most of us are struggling. When it comes to wellness, we often think of the physical first, mental second, while the opposite is actually true. Studies have shown that one’s mental health can directly affect a person’s physical well-being. Learn about the stress cycle, meditation and mindfulness, and strategies to take care of yourself. Dedicate this hour out of your busy day to take care of yourself.

April 25, 2023 - "Barriers to Reentry"

2 of the 2 trainings offered in April

Presented by: Julianna Everdyke, LMSW, Erie County Department of Mental Health, Director of Dual Recovery and Community Integration; Lindsey Allen, MSW Peaceprints of WNY, Director of Community Programs: Project Blue & Empower Youth; Sherene Bennett, Erie County Service Link Stop Director; and Tanya Drake, Erie County Reentry Taskforce Coordinator

April is Second Chance Month! Second Chance Month is nationally recognized and aims to highlight the opportunities and resources available to support successful reentry. Each year, more than 600,000 people are released from federal and state prisons, and most will encounter barriers once they are no longer physically incarcerated. Reentry and reintegration barriers span various avenues of health, mental health, housing, employment, family, faith, food insecurity, and many others that prevent access to basic needs. This training will focus on barriers that formerly incarcerated individuals face when returning to their communities. We will discuss what some of the most seen barriers are, “collateral consequences” that can last years after release, and what programs/initiatives are working to mitigate them.

Download April 25, 2023 "Barriers to Reentry" Presentation

April 12, 2023 - "Making a Care Management SPOA Referral"

1 of the 2 trainings offered in April

Presented by: Andrea Tobias, BS, Assistant Coordinator II SPOA, Erie County Department of Mental Health

This training will discuss the basics of completing a referral for care management through SPOA. We will go over how to properly fill out consents, and important points to consider in order to have a complete and accurate referral. Information on the different levels of service, the process of assigning a referral, and what happens after a referral is assigned will also be included. We will have a question and answer session at the end of the training.

care-management-spoa-referral-training.pptx

March 28, 2023 - "Developing Your Therapeutic Style: The Art of Talk Therapy"

Presented by: Christopher Frigon, LCSW, Senior Therapist from Horizon Health Services

Drawing from traditional as well as informal sources helps those in the helping fields to stay fresh, relevant, and most importantly curious about the work we do and how our roles help others. Development of professional style is a commitment to career growth that has helped him to stay as passionate and caring about talk therapy today, as he was 25 years ago. The focus this conversation will be exploring the art of talk therapy through inversion of common social clichés designed to get clients unstuck and make your work that much more interesting and rewarding.

Download March 28, 2023: "Developing Your Therapeutic Style: The Art of Talk Therapy" Presentation

February 28, 2023 - "Prevalent Drugs Used in WNY"

Presented by: Emma Fabian, MSW, Associate Vice President of harm reduction at Evergreen Health and part-time instructor at the UB School of Social Work

This training will discuss the most prevalent illicit and licit drugs used in WNY: Heroin, Fentanyl, Benzodiazepines, Crystal Methamphetamine, Cocaine, and more. Factual information about these substances as well as reasons why people use them (information was gathered confidentially from people who use drugs) will be covered. Harm Reduction calls us to understand that people have reasons for their behavior, including using drugs. Knowing the effects and benefits people get from using can help us tailor interventions that meet their needs.

December 20, 2022 - "Mobile and Online Sports Betting"

Presented by: Jeffrey Wierzbicki, Western Team Leader, Western Problem Gambling Resource Center

Online sports betting was launched in New York State in January 2022. This training will discuss what Mobile sports betting is and how it works. It will also cover the risks, risks specific to young people, and if there is a connection to substance use. In addition we will talk about the impact on families, if this is the same as other types of gambling, and how to recognize problem sports betting.

November 29, 2022 - "VA S.A.V.E Suicide Gatekeeper Training"

Presented by: Christopher Ramnauth, LCSW, Community Engagement and Partnership Coordinator, Suicide Prevention at the VA WNY Healthcare System

Christopher Ramnauth, LCSW (VA WNY Healthcare System) will facilitate S.A.V.E., which is a VA Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper Training. This training consists of the following components; brief overview of suicide in the veteran population, suicide myths and misinformation, risk factors for suicide, the S.A.V.E. model (Signs of suicide, Asking about suicide, Validating feelings, Encouraging help and Expediting treatment) and VA resources for mental health support.

September 27, 2022 - "Trauma 101"

Presented by: Ted Adams

This training will cover the general principles of Trauma-Informed Care and how these principles apply to the work that you do.

July 26, 2022 - "Adult Single Point of Access and Accountability for Housing"

Presented by: Christine Slocum, MA, Erie County Department of Mental Health, Housing Coordinator, Adult Single Point of Access and Accountability

The Erie County Department of Mental Health coordinates the County’s Single Point of Access and Accountability for all mental health residential programs. In this training, the SPOA Housing Coordinator will discuss eligibility, what types of housing programs are available, and how to do the SPOA referral (click here for the link to the SPOA referral).

June 28, 2022 - "Utilizing Existential Therapy and Enhanced Meaning/Purpose in Life as Treatment for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Disorders"

Presented by: Timothy E. Arent, M.S., Substance Abuse and Comorbid Mental Health Counselor at the Beacon Center of Central and Western New York

This presentation will discuss the use of Viktor Frankl's logo therapy and other existential treatment modalities in addressing mental health and substance abuse disorders more completely. In conjunction with current evidence-based practices, this presentation will detail how utilizing enhanced subjective meaning/purpose in life, assisting your client in replacing automatic thoughts with healthier alternatives, and achieving an enhanced understanding of your client's worldview can increase treatment efficacy. This webinar will offer theory and practice useful to both those unfamiliar with existential therapy as well as the more experienced practitioner.

"Utilizing Existential Therapy and Enhanced Meaning/Purpose in Life as Treatment for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Disorders

May 24, 2022 - "LGBTQ+ Concerns for Youth and Families"

Presented by: Reverend Susan Frawley

This presentation will address terminology, including pronouns. We will also be discussing gender and sexuality definitions, educational issues, Allyship, New York State laws, and medical and social issues for transgender youth.

LGBTQ+ Concerns for Youth and Families Presentation

April 26, 2022 - "Harm Reduction Philosophy and Practice"

Presented by: Emma Fabian, MSW, AVP of Harm Reduction, Evergreen Health and Part-Time Professor, UB School of Social Work and Naomi Taylor, Harm Reduction Specialist, Evergreen Health

This talk will provide an introduction to the principles of the Harm Reduction approach as well as the history of Harm Reduction in public health. Evergreen's continuum of care that includes Harm Reduction programs for people who use drugs will be discussed as well as how to refer patients.

March 22, 2022 - "Problem Gambling 101 - Just the Basics"

Presented by: Jeffrey Wierzbicki, Team Leader with the Western Problem Gambling Resource Center

March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month. Topics to be covered in this training will include: types of gambling, emerging trends, spectrum of gambling behaviors, warning signs of problem gambling, co-occurring mental health and substance use, at-risk populations and how to get help. The CASAC and Social Work Continuing Education credits are not available for the recorded session.

Problem Gambling 101: Just the Basics Presentation

February 22, 2022 - "Cluster B Personality Types, the Dramatic-Erratic Group - Overview and Focus on Borderline Personality"

Presented by: Christopher Frigon, LCSW, Senior Therapist from Horizon Health Services

The DSM groups Antisocial, Histrionic, Borderline, and Narcissistic personality types together based on differentiation from Cluster A (odd-eccentric) and Cluster C (anxious-fearful). We will overview Cluster B personality types, and focus on Borderline Personality due to the high clinical prevalence and generally higher risk this population presents with.

Cluster B Personality Types, the Dramatic-Erratic Group: Overview and Focus on Borderline Personality Presentation

January 25, 2022 - "Aging and Mental Health - Climbing a Mountain of Stigma"

Presented by: Heidi Billittier, LMSW, Director of Older Adult Services at Compeer and Janelle Thiessen, LMSW, Jewish Federation Apartments Service Coordinator

This interactive discussion will touch upon stigma associated with mental health and aging in our communities. We will discuss barriers to mental health services and ways in which we might address those barriers in the context of our personal and professional lives. We will introduce the “Reframing Aging” initiative and facilitate a conversation around aging and purpose. We believe strongly that older age is not about losing one’s value, but rather that the opposite is true. It is up to all of us to help shift that mindset.

Reframing Aging Handout

November 23, 2021 - "The Drama Triangle and Communicating with People with Personality Disorders"

Presented by: Christopher Frigon, Senior Therapist from Horizon Health Services

Working with difficult personalities in therapy presents many challenges for clinicians. This training is designed to present the concept of the Drama Triangle as a map to begin understanding how to communicate professionally and effectively with individuals, couples, and family systems struggling with features of personality disorders.

The Drama Triangle and Communicating with People with Personality Disorders Presentation

October 26, 2021 - "Co-Occurring Disorders Part II - Building Clinical Competencies to Provide Integrated Care"

Presented by: Lindsey Rickard, LMHC, Vice President of Training and Innovation and Catherine Maloney, LMHC, Director of Training and Innovation from BestSelf Behavioral Health

This training will start with a brief review of co-occurring disorders, integrated care, and common barriers to providing care to co-occurring disorders. We will then move into a review of 5 competencies needed by clinicians to provide the best integrated care for co-occurring disorders and examples of how to provide training and support in identified competency areas.

Co-Occurring Disorders Part II Presentation

September 28, 2021 - "The Impact of Domestic Violence on Children's Brain Development"

Presented by: Peter S. Martin, MD, MPH, Director of the Division of Community Psychiatry and Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, University at Buffalo

There are numerous deleterious effects that growing up in a violent and/or neglectful household can have on the development of youth. In this presentation, there will be an overview of different regions of the brain that are negatively changed as a result of this exposure. There will be an explanation of typical functioning of these various brain regions. Subsequently, there will be an exploration of how these specifics changes in these areas as a result of exposure to violence can impact the functioning of youths, with different impacts depending on the stage of development.

The Impact of Domestic Violence on Children's Brain Development Presentation

August 24, 2021 - "Adapting to Our New Normal"

Presented by: Esther Kaul, LMHC, and Lana Lal, LMHC, they are both Clinical Supervisors in the Counseling Services program at Child & Family Services

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted our daily lives and our “business as usual” mentality which has forced us to make so many adjustments in our personal and professional lives. These adjustments impacted us emotionally, physically, and mentally. Please join us to discuss and explore how to successfully transition out of the pandemic and create new routines, all while developing a new normal for ourselves, our families and the individuals we serve. Our goal is to discuss the residual effects of the pandemic on providers as well as explore strategies for healthy coping and management.

Adapting to Our New Normal Presentation

July 27, 2021 - "Co-Occurring Disorders: Prevalence, Challenges and Strategies"

Presented by: Jillian Warner-Dombrowski (MS, Master CASAC, Ph.D. Candidate), Co-Occurring Disorders Supervising Counselor at Transitional Services, Inc.

Jillian Warner-Dombrowski (MS, Master CASAC, Ph.D. Candidate), Co-Occurring Disorders Supervising Counselor at Transitional Services, Inc. reviews information on co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. This training includes current research about the prevalence of co-occurring disorders in behavioral health treatment settings. Commonly encountered disorders are briefly presented. Challenges with assessing co-occurring disorders, along with strategies for addressing identified challenges with clients are discussed. Finally, best practice strategies for providing services to individuals with co-occurring disorders are summarized.

Co-Occurring Disorders: Prevalence, Challenges and Strategies Presentation

June 22, 2021 - "Lethal Means Reduction: The “How” of Suicide Prevention that Makes a Difference"

Presented by: Celia Spacone, Ph.D., Coordinator, Erie County Suicide Prevention Coalition and Katie Coric, LCSW, Suicide Prevention Coordinator, Veterans Administration WNY Healthcare System

Katie Coric, LCSW (VA WNY Healthcare System, Suicide Prevention Coordinator) and Celia Spacone, Ph.D. (Erie County Suicide Prevention Coalition Coordinator) review the latest information on suicide in Erie County and nationally with a focus on veterans, a particularly high-risk group. They describe the philosophy of ‘means reduction’ which focuses on the method one chooses to attempt to end one’s life. By working with clients to reduce access to the most lethal means as a part of safety planning, a reduction in the number of deaths by suicide is possible. Applications of this model and resources are discussed.

April 27, 2021 - "Understanding Vicarious Trauma… The Road to Resilience"

April 2021 (Part 1) & May 2021 (Part 2)

Presented by: Dr. Kirsten Vincent, CEO of Recovery Options Made Easy

Choosing a career in a helping profession is an honorable decision and often those who choose it, bear the burden of other people’s trauma. Hearing trauma survivor's stories and witnessing traumatic events firsthand can affect advocates, health care professionals, police officers, lawyers, therapists, peers and others; it's called "vicarious trauma," and it can have a variety of negative effects. The toll of witnessing intense human experiences and emotions can contribute to a negative transformation of a helper’s own sense of safety, and of being competent and purposeful. This workshop provides participants with the opportunity to examine their own experiences and become aware of the signs of both vicarious trauma and vicarious growth. Participants will have the opportunity to develop a personalized plan to repair negative effects, as well as, accelerate their resilience.

Vicarious Trauma Presentation

March 30, 2021 - "Clinical Education Training with a focus on Anxiety"

Presented by: Dr. Rose Hazlitt, Psy.D. and Dr. Michael Cummings, MD.

They presented a case study and lead a community conversation about anxiety. Participants walked away with a deeper understanding of how to support people who experience anxiety and had an opportunity to share strategies of their own that have been successful.

January 26, 2021 - "Working with Survivors of Abuse"

January 2021 (Part I) & February 2021 (Part II)

Presented by: Mark O'Brien, LCSW-R, ACSW, Commissioner of the Erie County Department of Health

Mark shared his knowledge and insight in working with survivors of abuse; primarily sexual abuse, but also touched on physical and emotional abuse. This training is appropriate for anyone who is working with survivors of abuse and was not limited to just clinical staff.

Upcoming Sessions

"Medical Aid in Dying Community Presentation"

"Beyond the Emergency Department: Redefining Diversion in Intensive Crisis Stabilization Centers"