Products and Resources Catalog

The Take 10! Transforming Care for Women with Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) and their Families series discusses current issues and challenges confronted by diverse women presenting with substance use, SUDs, and who are in recovery. Women experience SUD in ways that are distinct from men. Historically, access to treatment for women has been limited, a disparity that persists today. Studies show that when women begin treatment for SUDs, they frequently arrive with more severe medical, behavioral, psychological, and social struggles compared to men. For these reasons, there is a need for gender-specific services.   Topic 2 (Overview Session): Assessment  and Screening of Co-occurring Disorders This 30-minute overview session will introduce participants to the emotional, physical, and socioeconomic factors that uniquely impact women during treatment, and especially how these factors relate to the assessment and screening of co-occurring disorders.   Learning Objectives This overview session will address the assessment and screening of co-occurring disorders in women with a special focus on the following information: Women’s treatment history and current aspects of women-centered treatment in the United States, with a focus on the Midwest The link between trauma, substance use, and other co-morbidities in women Trauma-informed and culturally responsive approaches for specific racial/ethnic women in recovery Effective clinical strategies, interventions, and resources that help improve engagement, retention, and completion of treatment programs   Presenter: Carmela J. DeCandia, PsyD Carmela J. DeCandia, PsyD, is a licensed clinical child psychologist who has dedicated her career to advancing best practices and policies to support vulnerable children and families, and to improve the systems which serve them. In practice for nearly 30 years, her primary work focuses on building trauma-informed systems of care. Her specialties include: child and adolescent development, family homelessness,  addressing the impact of traumatic stress, program development and systems change, neurodevelopmental testing and family assessment. A compassionate clinician and effective leader, she is nationally recognized as a writer, advocate, and public speaker. She has led direct service and national agencies including St. Mary’s Women and Children’s Center and The National Center on Family Homelessness. Currently, Dr. DeCandia is the Owner and President of Artemis Associates, LLC where she provides training and consultation to organizations  to enhance resilience for children, families, and their providers. In addition, she maintains a clinical practice in neurodevelopmental and psychological testing of children at Strong Roots Counseling center, and is the Principal Investigator on a NICHD funded project to develop the screening instrument - NEST Early Childhood. Dr. DeCandia has published extensively in academic journals and educational reports, and lectures on lifespan development and psychological testing at Boston College Graduate school in Counseling, Developmental, and Educational Psychology. For her work, she was named the recipient of the 2016 Horace Mann Spirit of Service Award by Antioch University.   The Great Lakes ATTC is offering this training for individuals working in HHS Region 5: IL, IN, MI, MN, OH, WI. This training is being provided in response to a need identified by Region 5 stakeholders.

The Great Lakes Current is the e-newsletter of the Great Lakes ATTC, MHTTC, and PTTC. The August 2024 issue features content celebrating National Wellness Month and the Mental Health Workforce Recruitment video project created by the Great Lakes MHTTC's regional partners. You will also find links to upcoming trainings and new products from all three centers. Make sure you're subscribed to our email contact list so you never miss a month of The Great Lakes Current newsletter, and thank you for reading!  

This skill-focused Learning Community conversation defines and demonstrates a way of engaging that considers the worker-task of providing information and/or feedback to people receiving services. This method of collaborative conversation can prevent disconnection, pushback and increase engagement. This training was approved for two renewal hours (CASAC, CPP, CPS) and two initial hours (CPP, CPS) through New York State’s Office of Addiction Services and Supports (NYS OASAS). As an IC & RC member board, OASAS accredited courses were granted reciprocal approval by the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs, Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee. Many other states offered reciprocity.

When working with Hispanic and Latino populations, clear language should never be a linear process, particularly for a collectivist society that defines and interprets experiences within a cultural context. Latino values such as "machismo" and "personalismo" can be very insightful, but when defined and understood through an American perspective, we wonder why we feel a disconnect with the Hispanic client/patient we need to provide prevention services to. This interactive presentation will inform on Latino cultural nuances that can reframe communication for Hispanic individuals with substance use and/or mental health problems and discuss prevention strategies to support “recuperación” (recovery). This training was approved for four renewal hours (CASAC, CPP, CPS) and four initial hours (CPP, CPS) through New York State’s Office of Addiction Services and Supports (NYS OASAS). As an IC & RC member board, OASAS accredited courses were granted reciprocal approval by the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs, Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee. Many other states offered reciprocity.

  The Take 10! Transforming Care for Women with Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) and their Families series discusses current issues and challenges confronted by diverse women presenting with substance use, SUDs, and who are in recovery. Studies show that when women begin treatment for SUDs, they frequently arrive with more severe medical, behavioral, psychological, and social struggles compared to men. For these reasons, there is a need for gender-specific services.   Session 2: Substance Use Disorder in Women - History, Use, and Treatment Women experience SUD in ways that are distinct from men. Historically, access to treatment for women has been limited, a disparity that persists today. This 2-hour workshop will explore the emotional, physical, and socioeconomic factors that uniquely impact women before, during, and after treatment. Attendees will gain insights into women-specific challenges and considerations for clinicians, behavioral health professionals, peers, law enforcement, and family members.   SESSION LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Understand the history of women’s treatment and current approaches to women-centered care, with a focus on differences compared to treatment for men Identify up to five key emotional and physical experiences that are unique to women with SUD Recognize two common ways in which women with SUD are stigmatized Explore trauma-informed care strategies to enhance quality of care and increase access for female clients Apply evidence-based practices that are particularly effective in women’s treatment setting   TRAINER: Ashley brings a wealth of experience and education across the nonprofit, for-profit, and government sectors. She has held various leadership roles in behavioral health and excels in project management, task execution, and organizational improvement. As primary consultant of Ashley Ryan Consulting LLC (ARC LLC), Ashley is known for her ability to grasp larger organizational strategies while meticulously delving into the details of processes and procedures to ensure programs meet their missions and comply with all regulatory requirements. ARC LLC is a social service-focused consulting to satisfy your CARF accreditation, organizational development and evaluation, and project management needs. Based in Cleveland, Ohio. Previously, Ashley was the executive director at the Women’s Recovery Center (WRC) in Cleveland, Ohio, where she and her team successfully increased revenue by 40% from 2018 to 2022, growing the budget from $700,000 to $1.2 million. Under her leadership, the organization also achieved Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) accreditation in 2021. Ashley is a Chemical Dependency Counseling Assistant and plans to achieve her Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor Licensure (LCDC) II by the end of 2024. Ashley as substance use disorder couseling experience at Catholic Charities Matt Talbot and May Dugan, both located in the greater Cleveland area. A part of her master’s degree, Ashley’s capstone project focused on women’s substance use disorder treatment in women and has conducted several trainings based on this research. In addition to her work in behavioral health, Ashley has extensive experience in health and welfare benefit plan compliance and human resources consulting. She has managed HIPAA compliance projects for large corporations nationwide and is credentialed as a Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS). Ashley earned her Master of Public Administration (MPA) from the University of North Carolina in August 2022, followed by her Project Management Professional (PMP) credential in February 2023. Ashley also holds a bachelor's degree in actuarial science/mathematics from The Ohio State University     The Great Lakes A/MH/PTTC is offering this training for individuals working in HHS Region 5: IL, IN, MI, MN, OH, WI. This training is being provided in response to a need identified by Region 5 stakeholders.

  The Take 10! Transforming Care for Women with Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) and their Families series discusses current issues and challenges confronted by diverse women presenting with substance use, SUDs, and who are in recovery. Studies show that when women begin treatment for SUDs, they frequently arrive with more severe medical, behavioral, psychological, and social struggles compared to men. For these reasons, there is a need for gender-specific services. Introductory Session: Substance Use Disorder in Women - History, Use, and Treatment Substance use disorder (SUD) is a biopsychosocial disease that impacts women differently than men. Understanding and implementing gender-specific treatment approaches are crucial for effective care. Historically, women have had less access to treatment, a disparity that continues today. Stigma remains a significant barrier both for women seeking treatment and for providers offering care. This workshop will illuminate the emotional and physical differences women experience compared to men before, during, and after treatment. Additionally, it will address how socioeconomic factors can significantly affect a woman's ability to achieve long-term sobriety. The presentation will highlight common women-specific treatment issues and considerations for clinicians, behavioral health professionals, peers, law enforcement, family members, and other stakeholders.   SESSION LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Understand the history of women’s treatment and current approaches to women-centered care, with a focus on differences compared to treatment for men Identify up to five key emotional and physical experiences that are unique to women with SUD Recognize two common ways in which women with SUD are stigmatized Explore trauma-informed care strategies to enhance quality of care and increase access for female clients Apply evidence-based practices that are particularly effective in women’s treatment settings   TRAINER: Ashley brings a wealth of experience and education across the nonprofit, for-profit, and government sectors. She has held various leadership roles in behavioral health and excels in project management, task execution, and organizational improvement. As primary consultant of Ashley Ryan Consulting LLC (ARC LLC), Ashley is known for her ability to grasp larger organizational strategies while meticulously delving into the details of processes and procedures to ensure programs meet their missions and comply with all regulatory requirements. ARC LLC is a social service-focused consulting to satisfy your CARF accreditation, organizational development and evaluation, and project management needs. Based in Cleveland, Ohio. Previously, Ashley was the executive director at the Women’s Recovery Center (WRC) in Cleveland, Ohio, where she and her team successfully increased revenue by 40% from 2018 to 2022, growing the budget from $700,000 to $1.2 million. Under her leadership, the organization also achieved Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) accreditation in 2021. Ashley is a Chemical Dependency Counseling Assistant and plans to achieve her Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor Licensure (LCDC) II by the end of 2024. Ashley as substance use disorder couseling experience at Catholic Charities Matt Talbot and May Dugan, both located in the greater Cleveland area. A part of her master’s degree, Ashley’s capstone project focused on women’s substance use disorder treatment in women and has conducted several trainings based on this research. In addition to her work in behavioral health, Ashley has extensive experience in health and welfare benefit plan compliance and human resources consulting. She has managed HIPAA compliance projects for large corporations nationwide and is credentialed as a Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS). Ashley earned her Master of Public Administration (MPA) from the University of North Carolina in August 2022, followed by her Project Management Professional (PMP) credential in February 2023. Ashley also holds a bachelor's degree in actuarial science/mathematics from The Ohio State University     The Great Lakes A/MH/PTTC is offering this training for individuals working in HHS Region 5: IL, IN, MI, MN, OH, WI. This training is being provided in response to a need identified by Region 5 stakeholders.

Designed for organizational leaders, this guidebook provides comprehensive strategies for fostering a supportive and caring workplace environment. The guidebook is intended to serve as both a resource and a reflective journal for leaders to consider how to recognize and respond to the impact of stress and trauma in their organizations, with an emphasis on building a more resilient, trauma-informed workplace culture.

This interactive learning community conversation focuses on the development of groups and the use of groups as a method of intervention. Emphasis will be placed on group work vs. case work in a group, and the skills necessary to facilitate groups. Prior group facilitation experience is a plus and is not required. This training was approved for three renewal hours (CASAC, CPP, CPS) and three initial hours (CPP, CPS) through New York State’s Office of Addiction Services and Supports (NYS OASAS). As an IC & RC member board, OASAS accredited courses were granted reciprocal approval by the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs, Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee. Many other states offered reciprocity.

This interactive learning community conversation explores the strategy of developing discrepancy. The intentional use of this strategy sparks contemplation, supports forward movement and stops circular conversations about behavior change.  Participants will reframe their frustration-in-moment as an opportunity for insight that can inform and reshape their next steps in the conversation. Demonstrations, practice opportunities and feedback will be used to illustrate the practical application of this effective engagement/conversation strategy. This training was approved for two renewal hours (CASAC, CPP, CPS) and two initial hours (CPP, CPS) through New York State’s Office of Addiction Services and Supports (NYS OASAS). As an IC & RC member board, OASAS accredited courses were granted reciprocal approval by the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs, Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee. Many other states offered reciprocity.

Behavioral health and health care settings offer a spectrum of programs including substance use, mental health, and medical and recovery services. Professionals providing these supports use an array of competencies to empathize and assist persons with substance use and other psychosocial problems. Always focused on helping others, professionals can experience challenges in practicing self-care for themselves. This interactive workshop provides an opportunity for providers to review wellness practices and experience the benefits of intentional, micro-structured, self-care interventions. This training was approved for two renewal hours (CASAC, CPP, CPS) and two initial hours (CPP, CPS) through New York State’s Office of Addiction Services and Supports (NYS OASAS).  As an IC & RC member board, OASAS accredited courses were granted reciprocal approval by the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs, Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee. Many other states offered reciprocity.

This 1.5-hour webinar is intended for mental health professionals who work with individuals who have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use disorder (SUD) comorbidity. According to research, PTSD and SUDs are extremely prevalent co-occurring disorders, with each diagnosis raising the chance of the other. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has established six principles of trauma-informed care that are intended to promote a supportive and healing environment for those who have suffered trauma. The presenters will go over these six principles and how to implement them when assisting clients recover. These principles guide the delivery of trauma-informed care, ensuring that services are compassionate, respectful, and successful in meeting the varied needs of trauma survivors. This webinar aims to provide attendees with evidence-based methods and practical tools for facilitating change and promoting recovery in this dual-diagnosis population.   LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Discuss the prevalence and impact of co-occurring PTSD and SUD Understand the six principles of trauma-informed care Implement trauma-informed care in clinical practice     TRAINERS: Mark Sanders, LCSW, CADC, is an international speaker in behavioral health whose presentations have reached thousands throughout the United States, England, Canada, Spain, Lithuania, West Indies and Guam. He is the recipient of five behavioral health lifetime achievement awards including the prestigious NAADAC Enlightenment Award. He is Founder of The Museum of African American Addictions, Treatment and Recovery which is the 2023 winner of the Faces and Voices of Recovery Innovations In Recovery Award. He is the author of 5 books on recovery and had had a 30-year career as a university educator.       Isa Vélez Echevarria, PsyD is a Puerto Rican clinical psychologist. She is the Ohio State Project Manager for the Great Lakes Addiction, Mental Health, and Prevention Technology Transfer Centers managed by the Center for Health Enhancement Systems Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.  During her pre-doctoral internship at Children’s Institute in Los Angeles, CA, she obtained a certification as Interpersonal Psychotherapy Clinician. She was trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Family Therapy. In addition, she provides telehealth services to communities of color in Massachusetts and Puerto Rico. Her clinical work has focused on culturally tailored and trauma-informed services to Latinx communities.       The Great Lakes A/MH/PTTC is offering this training for individuals working in HHS Region 5: IL, IN, MI, MN, OH, WI. This training is being provided in response to a need identified by Region 5 stakeholders.

The Great Lakes Current is the e-newsletter of the Great Lakes ATTC, MHTTC, and PTTC. The June 2024 issue features content celebrating Pride Month, PTSD Awareness Month, and Intersection of Addiction and Racism: A Curated Bibliography‒a new comprehensive resource created by AMERSA, the ATTC NCO, and the PTTC NCO. You will also find links to upcoming trainings focused on the therapeutic benefits of humor in treatment and recovery, prevention efforts in rural communities, and trauma-informed care for transition-age youth. Make sure you're subscribed to our email contact list so you never miss a month of The Great Lakes Current newsletter, and thank you for reading!  

The Great Lakes Current is the e-newsletter of the Great Lakes ATTC, MHTTC, and PTTC. The September 2024 issue features content celebrating National Recovery Month, Suicide Prevention Month, and a new Counselor's Corner blog post by Mark Sanders and Isa Velez Echevarria. You will also find links to upcoming trainings and new products from our centers. Make sure you're subscribed to our email contact list so you never miss a month of The Great Lakes Current newsletter, and thank you for reading!  

  Humor is a part of daily living that has been shown to improve mental, physical, and emotional health. Laughter can bring us through some of the darkest times when hope seems glim. Despite the benefits and need for laughter and humor, helping professionals are taught very little about the therapeutic benefits of humor in treatment and recovery. In fact, it is sometimes discouraged in the helping professions. In this presentation you will learn strategies to incorporate humor in your work with clients.   LEARNING OBJECTIVES: By the end of this presentation, you will be able to: Understand the research on the benefits of using humor to improve physical, mental and emotional health Use humor more effectively in your work with clients Use humor to improve rapport with clients and to help clients grow in recovery Use humor to help reduce burnout and increase organizational morale   PRESENTERS: Tom Farley Tom Farley grew up in Madison, WI and graduated from Georgetown University with a degree in Marketing.  He began his career in banking and finance, living and working in the New York City area.  From 1999 to 2012, he ran The Chris Farley Foundation, a nationally recognized non-profit dedicated to substance abuse prevention. Like his brother, Tom was successful in opening the “eyes and ears” of youth audiences through the powerful and effective use of humor.  In 2008 he wrote “The Chris Farley Show”, a New York Time bestselling biography of his late brother, the actor and comedian Chris Farley.  He has been interviewed on The Today Show, Good Morning America, Larry King Live, Fox News and The View. He has also been featured in People Magazine, USA Today and several national and regional newspapers and publications. Tom has served on the Dane County Human Services board and several non-profit boards. Tom works for Rosecrance Behavioral Health as the Professional Relations Coordinator for Wisconsin. He is also a motivational speaker, delivering messages on prevention and recovery. Tom lives in Madison, WI.   Mark Sanders, LCSW, CADC Mark Sanders, LCSW, CADC, is the Illinois state project manager for the Great Lakes ATTC, MHTTC, and PTTC. He is an international speaker and behavioral health consultant whose presentations and publications have reached thousands throughout the United States, Europe, Canada, West Indies, Lithuania, and Guam. He is the recipient of four lifetime achievement awards, including NAADAC’s prestigious Enlightenment Award, the National Association for Addiction Professionals’ 50th Anniversary Legends Award, the Illinois Certification Board's Professional of the Year Award and Jessica Hayes Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Barbara Bacon Award for outstanding contributions to the social work profession as an alumnus of Loyola University of Chicago.  Mark is the author of five books on behavioral health recovery. Recent writings include Slipping Through the Cracks: Intervention Strategies for Clients with Multiple Addictions Disorders and Relationship Detox: A Counselors Guide To Helping Clients Develop Healthy Relationships In Recovery. His groundbreaking monograph, Recovery Management, co-authored with historians William White and Earnest Kurtz, helped shift substance use disorders treatment and recovery from the acute care model towards a recovery-oriented system of care. Mark is the primary contributing author of a trauma-informed gun violence prevention curriculum which is now being implemented in several large cities throughout the U.S., and he authored two stories published in the New York Times bestselling Chicken Soup for The Soul book series. In addition to his behavioral healthcare work, Mark has a 30-year career as a university educator, having taught at The University of Chicago, Loyola University of Chicago, and Illinois State University School of Social Work. He is also the co-founder of Serenity Academy Chicago, a program which sponsors recovery-oriented peer groups in local high schools.   The Great Lakes A/MHTTC is offering this training for individuals working in HHS Region 5: IL, IN, MI, MN, OH, WI. This training is being provided in response to a need identified by Region 5 stakeholders.

The Great Lakes Current is the e-newsletter of the Great Lakes ATTC, MHTTC, and PTTC. The May 2024 issue features content celebrating Mental Health Awareness Month, Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, Hepatitis C Awareness Month, and National Prevention Week. You will also find links to upcoming trainings focused on the therapeutic benefits of humor in treatment and recovery, prevention efforts in rural communities, and trauma-informed care for transition-age youth. Make sure you're subscribed to our email contact list so you never miss a month of The Great Lakes Current newsletter, and thank you for reading!  

Discover the Benefits of DBT for Individuals in Substance Use Disorder Recovery   Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) has emerged as a powerful evidence-based approach to addressing the complexities of substance use disorders, offering a comprehensive toolkit that extends beyond conventional methods. In this six-hour training, participants will delve into the core principles and techniques of DBT, exploring how they enrich SUD treatment by fostering mindfulness, enhancing interpersonal skills, regulating emotions, and bolstering distress tolerance. This training package includes a 6-hour PowerPoint presentation (full curriculum) and a 13-page handout packet. There are various options for presenting the 6 hours of content, including through a 1, 2, or 3-hour workshop, a single full-day (6-hour) training session, or two 3-hour sessions, which allows for convenient scheduling while maintaining satisfactory coverage of the material. All materials contained in this training package are 508 compliant.   Learning Objectives: At the end of this training, participants will be able to: Distinguish two (2) specific behaviors that DBT is designed to treat and the origins of DBT Describe the four (4) groups of skills utilized in DBT (Mindfulness, Interpersonal Effectiveness, Emotion Regulation, and Distress Tolerance) Identify two (2) ways in which DBT skills can be useful for substance use disorders Apply one (1) specific DBT Skill pertaining to one of the four (4) DBT skills Explain two (2) specific ways in which DBT can be integrated into an SUD treatment setting In-Depth Description of Training:  Originally developed to address chronic suicidal ideation and borderline personality disorder (BPD), DBT blends cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with a dialectical philosophy, emphasizing acceptance and change simultaneously. Over time, research has shown its effectiveness in treating a spectrum of mood disorders including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, and importantly, substance use disorders. This training explores how DBT goes beyond its original purpose, becoming a pivotal intervention in reshaping behavioral patterns and becoming a crucial tool in reshaping behaviors, particularly concerning substance misuse. Through this structured curriculum, participants will gain insights into the four core skill sets (modules) of DBT: Mindfulness, Interpersonal Effectiveness, Emotion Regulation, and Distress Tolerance. Throughout this training, participants will examine the nuanced ways in which each skill set intertwines with SUD treatment, promoting a holistic approach toward recovery. Mindfulness, as the cornerstone of DBT, encourages individuals to embrace the present moment, detaching from harmful thought patterns and impulses. Interpersonal Effectiveness skills equip individuals with strategies for building healthy relationships, crucial in navigating support networks during recovery journeys. Emotion Regulation skills teach mechanisms for managing intense feelings, providing tools to modulate emotional responses without resorting to substance use, while distress tolerance skills empower individuals to withstand cravings and urge to use, fostering resilience in recovery. Moreover, this training underscores the importance of DBT in addressing co-occurring mental health disorders, breaking down barriers to recovery, and promoting sustained abstinence from substances. By fostering engagement, trust, and collaboration, DBT sets the stage for long-term success, enabling individuals to reclaim agency over their lives and forge a path toward lasting wellness. In summary, this six-hour training serves as a roadmap towards integrating DBT principles into SUD treatment, equipping participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to effect transformative change in the lives of those grappling with substance misuse.

Data sources estimate that between 25 to 75% of people who survive different forms of abuse and/or a violent trauma develop issues related to substance use. Despite the prevalence of trauma, it often goes undetected particularly in people already dealing with life challenges and at high risk of substance use, misuse, and mental health problems.  This interactive training will review variations of trauma and potential impacts on the mind, and how self-regulation techniques can help address traumatic reactions. The content will further discuss practice specific opportunities for integration of trauma-informed care principles and during various points of client interactions. Providers will learn how trauma-informed care provides a preventive approach to engagement and supports person-centered care. This training was approved for three renewal hours (CASAC, CPP, CPS) and three initial hours (CPP, CPS) through New York State’s Office of Addiction Services and Supports (NYS OASAS). As an IC & RC member board, OASAS-accredited courses were granted reciprocal approval by the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs, Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee. Many other states offered reciprocity.

  While men’s addiction and mental health treatment has been quite successful, there is great room for improvement. This new framework, developed by Mr. Griffin and colleagues, integrates the latest thinking on addiction and recovery, relational cultural theory, male psychological development, and trauma. Current treatment models and theories fail to adequately consider the relational needs of men; often omit a clear understanding of the impact of the socialization process on men; fall short of adequately addressing the impact of abuse and trauma that is so strongly linked with addiction and the life of the male addict; and often ignore any social context and/or the consequences of political, social, and economic power.     TRAINER:   Dan Griffin, MA, is an internationally recognized author, thought leader, and expert on men’s relationships and masculinity. Dan has dedicated his life and work to exploring and redefining what it means to be a man in the 21st century. He is committed to helping men be better men by understanding the impact of the Man Rules on their lives. Dan also helps men find the success in their personal lives they are striving for in their professional ones. Griffin’s books and curricula are all focused on helping men and dads live their best lives. Dan served as a senior fellow at The Meadows, world-renowned experts treating addictive disorders and trauma, from 2015 to 2017. Dan earned a Master’s degree in Sociology from the University of Kansas. For his graduate work, Dan completed the first qualitative study centered on the social construction of masculinity in the culture of Alcoholics Anonymous. Dan is in long-term recovery and lives with his family in Los Angeles   The Great Lakes A/MH/PTTC is offering this training for individuals working in HHS Region 5: IL, IN, MI, MN, OH, WI. This training is being provided in response to a need identified by Region 5 stakeholders.

Humor has long been recognized as a powerful tool in therapy, capable of breaking down barriers, fostering rapport, and promoting healing. This interactive session presented by Mallori DeSalle, MA, LMHC, NCC, CMHC, CHP, delves into the art and science of using therapeutic humor to support clients in their therapeutic journey. Participants will explore the multifaceted benefits of humor in therapy, including its ability to reduce stress, enhance resilience, and facilitate emotional processing. Through case studies, role-playing exercises, and group discussions, attendees will learn practical strategies for incorporating humor into their therapeutic practice in a safe and ethical manner. Whether you're a seasoned therapist looking to refresh your approach or a new practitioner eager to expand your therapeutic toolkit, this session offers valuable insights and practical techniques for harnessing the power of humor to support your clients on their path to healing and growth. Join us and discover how humor can be a transformative force in the therapeutic process. Download slides | View recording

Dr. Nora Volkow is the Director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) at the National Institutes of Health. Her research sheds light on one of the most important indicators that someone will or will not reach out for support for their substance use: stigma.[1] She states that: "The words we use to describe mental illnesses and substance use disorders (addiction to alcohol and other legal and illegal drugs) can impact the likelihood that people will seek help and the quality of the help they receive. Research indicates that stigma—negative attitudes toward people based on distinguishing characteristics—contributes in multiple ways to poorer health outcomes; consequently, it has been identified as a critical focus for research and interventions."[2] Addiction, along with mental health challenges, have long been some of the most stigmatized conditions. Countless research studies show that when there are stigmatizing attitudes, fewer people reach out for help. This is especially concerning considering the percentages of people who don’t receive the treatment they need (nearly 90% of the people who need support for their substance use challenges or addiction do not get it).[3] The Words We Use Matter How we talk about addiction and recovery matters. Not just because of the words we say, but because of the words we hear—and what our loved ones hear and in turn, can internalize. Research from 2019 shows that nearly 20% of people who needed help didn’t get it because they were concerned about what their neighbors or community would think.[4] There are things that we can do as loved ones to learn how to talk about addiction and also why this matters—and how it can help end addiction stigma. Understanding the science of addiction and recovery is a first step. You may be like me (not a neuroscientist) and that’s okay. There’s a way to understand what happens on a physical level when we experience substance use disorder or substance misuse challenges. Flo Hilliard, MSH, founding member of Faces & Voices of Recovery and expert in the field of addiction science explains it this way: "Many medical conditions, like Type 2 Diabetes and Cardiovascular disease, are linked to not only a genetic predisposition but also to patterns or habits that can lead to "turning on" the gene for that condition. Substance use disorders often follow the same pattern, yet there is often stigma and shame attached to the normal progression of the medical condition. Understanding the basic brain science of addiction and recovery is a fundamental step in eliminating stigma and treating those suffering from this disorder as respected human beings. Research shows that with the proper treatment and support people can and do recover from addiction to alcohol and other drugs to have successful professional and personal lives." When we understand that addiction is a normal part of the human experience, it loses its ability to be framed as something requiring punitive measures. Something that causes shame. It lacks the power to divide into “us vs. them.” Addiction or substance use disorders are worthy of our understanding and compassion. There are some excellent resources out there, including ones through the ATTC network, including their Addiction Science Made Easy Series, that share information about the science of addiction and recovery so we not only understand it but understand how to talk about it. How We Talk About Addiction Recovery Matters There are simple ways that you can talk about addiction and recovery that decrease stigma. The National Institute on Drug Abuse or NIDA shares these helpful ways to talk about addiction recovery:[5],[6] Use person-first language Promote community education about addiction Share recovery stories Education programs for folks who work with those of us in or seeking recovery like doctors, nurses, treatment providers, counselors, and church leaders Here is another helpful resource from SAMHSA: Overcoming Stigma Ending Discrimination. Check out this helpful chart from NIDA: Words Matter - Terms to Use and Avoid When Talking About Addiction. Women and Addiction Stigma Stigma is even more prevalent for women, especially mothers, and women of color, and this has been known for decades.[7] It's part of why I founded and host the annual event with the SHE RECOVERS foundation that highlights and celebrates women’s recovery during Women’s History Month on International Women’s Day every year. This year, we are focusing on highlighting the next generation and why it’s important to not only share stories of recovery but also share what works in terms of recovery support services. Gathering as a global community of supporters of recovery is not only an incredible experience, it has a purpose: to help reduce the addiction recovery stigma that women face.[8] Since women, especially from under-resourced and underserved communities, experience higher levels of addiction stigma and are thus, less likely to seek support, we all must work to address this issue that impacts millions. When we share our stories of recovery in the light, it can illuminate hope for others and show that recovery is possible. When we use supportive and hope-filled language, we can be a part of eradicating the stigma and discrimination that has no place in our recovery-oriented world today. Join us this March and celebrate. For more information and to register for free visit: https://sherecovers.org/international-womens-day-2024/ Time and date don’t work for you? No problem! Register for a link to watch on demand any time or plan your own watch party.   Caroline Beidler, MSW is an author, recovery advocate, and founder of the storytelling platform Circle of Chairs. With almost 20 years in leadership within social work and ministry, she is currently a consultant with JBS International, along with the founder and host of the annual International Women’s Day Global Recovery Event presented by the SHE RECOVERS Foundation. Connect with her @carolinebeidler_official and  https://www.facebook.com/carolinebeidlermsw   [1] Volkow, N.D., Gordon, J.A. & Koob, G.F. Choosing appropriate language to reduce the stigma around mental illness and substance use disorders. Neuropsychopharmacol. 46, 2230–2232 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41386-021-01069-4 [2] National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. Ending Discrimination Against People with Mental and Substance Use Disorders: the Evidence for Stigma Change. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press; 2016. https://doi.org/10.17226/23442. [3] Hammarlund R, Crapanzano KA, Luce L, Mulligan L, Ward KM. Review of the effects of self-stigma and perceived social stigma on the treatment-seeking decisions of individuals with drug- and alcohol-use disorders. Subst Abus Rehabil. 2018;9:115–36. https://doi.org/10.2147/SAR.S183256. Published 2018 Nov 23. [4] Han B. Key substance use and mental health indicators in the United States: results from the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (HHS Publication No. PEP20-07-01-001, NSDUH Series H-55). Rockville, MD: Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration; 2020. [5] Volkow, N.D., Gordon, J.A. & Koob, G.F. Choosing appropriate language to reduce the stigma around mental illness and substance use disorders. Neuropsychopharmacol. 46, 2230–2232 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41386-021-01069-4 [6] Livingston, J. D., Milne, T., Fang, M. L., & Amari, E. (2012). The effectiveness of interventions for reducing stigma related to substance use disorders: a systematic review. Addiction (Abingdon, England), 107(1), 39–50. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1360-0443.2011.03601.x [7] Radcliffe P. Motherhood, Pregnancy, and the Negotiation of Identity: The Moral Career of Drug Treatment. Social Science & Medicine. 2011;72:984–991. [8] Page, S., Fedorowicz, S., McCormack, F., Whitehead, S. (2024). Women, Addictions, Mental Health, Dishonesty, and Crime Stigma: Solutions to Reduce the Social Harms of Stigma. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 21(1):63. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21010063

This webinar, hosted by the Northwest ATTC, PTTC, and MHTTC, provided an overview of the seven vital conditions for well-being and illustrated how the framework can be useful for conceptualizing holistic individual and community well-being.  The presenters, Chris Kelleher (consultant) and Jennifer Johnson (Skagit County Deputy County Administrator), demonstrated how the framework can help address issues related to a community response to mental health and well-being, substance use disorder, and substance misuse prevention in Skagit County, WA, with the North Star Initiative. The framework is used by multiple state and federal agencies, including The Federal Plan for Equitable Long-Term Recovery and Resilience as a guiding framework to organize and take action on social determinants of health. Watch the recording here.  

  The Great Lakes Current is the e-newsletter of the Great Lakes ATTC, MHTTC, and PTTC.   The December 2023 issue shares recorded content on wound care and xylazine, social media basics for preventionists, an infographic on providing behavioral healthcare to people living with HIV, and SAMHSA's tips for supporting your mental health through the holidays. As always, you will also find links to all upcoming events and trainings hosted by the Great Lakes ATTC, MHTTC, and PTTC!   Make sure you're subscribed to our email contact list, so you never miss a month of The Great Lakes Current newsletter and thank you for reading!

Talking To Change: A Motivational Interviewing Podcast, hosted by Glenn Hinds and Sebastian Kaplan, is a series of conversations exploring Motivational Interviewing (MI) and its influence on supporting individuals and groups as they make positive health and lifestyle changes. Talking to Change: An MI Podcast. Episode 70: MI in the Treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, with Dr. Jim Carter In this episode, hosts Glenn and Sebastian talk to Dr. Jim Carter, a licensed clinical psychologist who recently founded a specialized online clinic called OCD123. Dr. Carter talks about what obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is, how to help people with OCD, and how our minds work and alternatives for when we get stuck. The episode ends with the group performing and then debriefing a role play focused on helping a new father with fears of contamination/germs.

November 2023 Dialogue: ATTC: Trans Awareness Week | MHTTC: School Well-Being Learning Community | PTTC: Fostering Inclusivity and Substance Use Prevention | ORN: Finding a Voice. Additional sections include behavioral health observances, virtual training and webinar events, and new resources. The Dialogue is designed to inform behavioral and mental health professionals of news and upcoming events in the HHS Region 3/Central East region. This electronic newsletter is disseminated bi-monthly on the first Tuesday. You are encouraged to provide us with any feedback or submit articles and topics for discussion in future issues of the newsletter, [email protected].   Sign up to receive the Dialogue and our weekly training bulletin in your mailbox.   Visit the Dialogue Archives.