Past Events

The New England ATTC in partnership with the Massachusetts Re-Entry Community Resources for Justice is providing this four-part targeted TA series in "Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for Substance Use and Co-occurring Disorders" on 6/17, 6/20, 6/24, and 6/26 with subject matter expert Taylor D'Addario. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a cognitive behavioral treatment that was originally developed to treat chronically suicidal individuals diagnosed with borderline personality disorder (BPD) and it is now recognized as the gold standard psychological treatment for this population. In addition, research has shown that it is effective in treating substance use disorders and a wide range of co-occurring mental health disorders such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and eating disorders. [This is a private, targeted technical assistance (TA) event.  If you are interested in similar TA, please contact [email protected]]

Stigma is a factor that can prevent those with substance use disorders from receiving evidence-based practices that allow them to seek and stay in recovery. This training is led by someone with lived experience of drug use, overdose, and navigating the care continuum to eventually becoming a Peer Recovery Support Specialist. We will look at this story and the role stigma played in delaying and distressing the recovery process. Participants will have the opportunity to observe how stigma affects their own experiences and discuss ways to shift attitudes and improve actions which lead to better outcomes and more people in recovery. This training will take place at the Midwest Conference on Problem Gambling and Substance Abuse.

Successful individuals in every profession attribute important aspects of their success to a their participation in a mentoring relationship. World leaders, Noble Prize winners, astronauts, CEOs of Fortune 500 companies, professional athletes, artists, non-profit advocates, and many of us in helping professions will attest to having benefited from mentorship. In this interactive webinar, Jamelia R. Hand, CADC, CODP and Mark Sanders, LCSW, CADC, will share developing research as well as their individual experiences on beneficial impacts of mentoring relationship. Their engaging discussion will delve into the concept of mentorship, focusing on its critical role in enhancing leadership qualities and clinical skills within the behavioral health sector. Attendees will gain a deep understanding of mentorship, its benefits, and practical strategies for nurturing these relationships to foster professional and personal growth.   LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Attendees will gain: a deeper understanding of mentorship, practical strategies for nurturing these relationships, and— the skills to begin fostering professional and personal growth through mentorship.     CERTIFICATES: Registrants who fully attend this training will receive a certificate of attendance via email within two weeks after the conclusion of the training.     TRAINERS: Jamelia Hand, MHS, CADC, CODP, is a seasoned opioid addiction consultant, speaker, trainer, and author within the SUD/OUD healthcare sector. Ms. Hand maximizes her extensive executive experience to deliver compelling keynote speeches, engaging workshops, and dynamic training sessions that motivate and inspire action in addiction and mental health treatment, service delivery, overdose prevention, and staff motivation. Her expertise is highlighted in national publications, and she has held significant roles such as Deputy Director in Illinois, VP of Reentry, and leadership positions in global addiction medication and technology companies, enhancing access to quality care nationwide. For more information, visit vantageclinicalconsulting.com.     Mark Sanders, LCSW, CADC, is the Illinois State Project Manager for the Great Lakes ATTC, MHTTC, and PTTC. Mark has worked for 40 years as a social worker, educator, and part of the SUD workforce. He is founder of the Online Museum of African American Addictions, Treatment and Recovery and co-founder of Serenity Academy of Chicago, the only recovery-oriented high school in Illinois. Mark is also an international speaker, trainer, and consultant in the behavioral health field whose work has reached thousands throughout the United States, Europe, Canada, the Caribbean, and the British Islands. Recently, Mark Sanders was named as the 2021 recipient of the NAADAC Enlightenment Award in recognition of his outstanding work and contributions to NAADAC, the field of SUD services, and SUD professionals. He is also the recipient of the Illinois Association for Behavioral Health’s 2021 Lawrence Goodman Friend of the Field award in honor of the many years of dedicated service Mark has provided to communities throughout his home state of Illinois.     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 New England ATTC in partnership with the Health Education & Training Institute is providing targeted TA in “Foundational Motivational Interviewing” on 6/20/24 and 6/21/24 with nationally renowned motivational interviewing (MI) trainer Stephen Andrew. MI is a client-centered, evidence-based method for enhancing intrinsic motivation to change by exploring and resolving ambivalence. This two-day training will introduce how to use MI with patients with substance use and mental health diagnoses. Participants will have extensive opportunities to practice integrating MI techniques into a range of therapeutic interventions. [This is a private, targeted technical assistance (TA) event.  If you are interested in similar TA please contact [email protected]]

The New England ATTC in partnership with Gateway Healthcare is providing intensive technical assistance in "Basic Motivational Interviewing" on 6/19/24 from 8:30-3:30 (EST) with subject matter expert Robert Jope.  Motivational interviewing (MI) is a client-centered, evidence-based, goal-oriented method for enhancing intrinsic motivation to change by exploring and resolving ambivalence with the individual. This active, skill-building workshop provides participants with knowledge of the spirit, micro skills, and strategies of the model, and provides opportunities to practice the approach. [This is a private, targeted technical assistance (TA) event.  If you are interested in similar TA, please contact [email protected]]

The New England ATTC in partnership with the Health Education & Training Institute is providing targeted TA in “Motivational Interviewing: Ethics, Law and Substance Use” on 6/18/24 and 6/28/24 with nationally renowned motivational interviewing (MI) trainer Stephen Andrew. Ethical decisions are often complex and multifaceted, as well as lacking simple solutions. There are many ‘gray areas’ that demand both reflection and the use of decision-making skills. This class will provide participants with the opportunity to evaluate boundaries when working with people, and to learn models of ethical decision making. We will explore exercises that help define and resolve ethical problems at work. We will also discuss the link between the quality of ethics and the quality of care. Register now!

The New England ATTC in partnership with the Massachusetts Re-Entry Community Resources for Justice is hosting this four-part targeted TA series in "Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for Substance Use and Co-occurring Disorders" on 6/17, 6/20, 6/24, 6/26, with subject matter expert Taylor D'Addario. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a cognitive behavioral treatment that was originally developed to treat chronically suicidal individuals diagnosed with borderline personality disorder (BPD) and it is now recognized as the gold standard psychological treatment for this population. In addition, research has shown that it is effective in treating substance use disorders and a wide range of co-occurring mental health disorders such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and eating disorders. [This is a private, targeted technical assistance (TA) event.  If you are interested in similar TA, please contact [email protected]]

Participants will increase awareness about sexual orientation, gender identity, and how personal biases impede care and ultimately identify how to develop an environment that is LGBT user effective. Trainer: Paul Warren, LMSW Credits: This training meets the requirements 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 are granted reciprocal approval by the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs, Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee. Many other states offer reciprocity - please check with your accrediting agency. Participants are required to attend the training in its entirety, turn on their video cameras, and actively participate to receive credit.

The New England ATTC in partnership with the NBMAA is providing this basic TA at the 23rd Annual Juneteenth Celebration - Access for All Community Day - Juneteenth Celebration on 6/15/24 with subject matter expert Michelle Stewart-Copes. As a representative of the NAACP at this event, Michele Stewart-Copes will also be providing materials to participants to introduce the New England ATTC and the resources that we provide to the public. The NBMAA's 23rd Annual Juneteenth celebration is a day-long event featuring artistic performances, music, in-gallery experiences and art making. Attendees can shop local Black-owned businesses, support independent artists, and grab a bite from regional food trucks.

Substance Use Disorder affects the LGBTQ community at a higher rate than the general population. Unique challenges like stigma, shame, and lack of support can impede access to treatment. As a service provider, it's important to create a welcoming and accepting environment, reduce stigma, and tailor treatments to the needs of LGBTQ individuals. Abstinence based recovery may be the key for some, where harm-reduction strategies may be more appropriate for others. By providing culturally competent treatment, we increase our clients’ chances of achieving lasting recovery. Objectives: Educate Substance Use Disorder (SUD) providers on the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals with SUD Describe effective methods for treating and connecting with LGBTQ+ clients Learn to provide effective and culturally competent treatment to the LGBTQ+ population Presenter Information: Darla Belflower LCSW, CPS has worked in leadership in the substance use disorder and behavioral health fields for over three decades. She is currently the Clinical Director at Healing House. She has a passion for teaching others what she has learned in those years. She is Vice Chair of the KC Recovery Coalition, serves on the board of the MO Coalition of Recovery Support Providers and is a member of The MO Department of Mental Health State Advisory Council. Darla obtained her MSW from the KU, and she has a BS in Psychology and Alcohol and Drug Studies from MO Valley College. Darla is a person in recovery and author of the book, “I Am Not Anonymous.” This training has been approved for 1-hour by the Missouri Credentialing Board and the Iowa Board of Certification. Please email Bree at [email protected] for any questions.

The New England ATTC, in partnership with AdCare Educational Institute of New England is hosting this session at the New England Summer School on 6/13/24 from 10:00am - 4:15pm with subject matter expert Joseph Zannella. This workshop is to help new counselors understand the role that brain chemistry plays in addictions. Brain structure and basic brain chemistry will be discussed along with the effects of substance use and the progression that chemical dependency has on the brain. Implications for treatment and client education will also be discussed. Current and emerging brain chemistry research will be highlighted. Register now!!

The New England ATTC, in partnership with AdCare Educational Institute of New England is hosting this session at the New England Summer School on 6/13/24 from 10:00am - 4:15pm with subject matter expert Haner Hernandez. This course is designed to highlight and explore the needs of addiction service professionals working with culturally diverse individuals, organizations, and communities. The participants will be able to understand the role behavioral health disparities, cultural humility and intelligence, and health equity in clinical settings and will learn proven techniques and strategies for engagement. The training will include didactic as well as interactive exercises designed to engage participants and elicit their input. Register now!!

The New England ATTC, in partnership with AdCare Educational Institute of New England is hosting this session at the New England Summer School on 6/13/24 from 10:00am - 4:15pm with subject matter expert Haner Hernandez. This course is designed to highlight and explore the needs of addiction service professionals working with culturally diverse individuals, organizations, and communities. The participants will be able to understand the role behavioral health disparities, cultural humility and intelligence, and health equity in clinical settings and will learn proven techniques and strategies for engagement. The training will include didactic as well as interactive exercises designed to engage participants and elicit their input. Register now!!

According to research, 1 in 3 people see little need for preventive care and have low interest in health education. These dynamics are associated with poor patient/client and program outcomes. A key factor of patient/client outcomes refers to how engaged they are in their care. This interactive training will focus on core principles of Motivational Interviewing (MI) for person-centered engagement, aligning with culturally and linguistically appropriate, trauma-informed strategies. This introductory content explores all the basic elements of communication to enhance interactions and effectively engage individuals in their own wellness process. Trainer: Diana Padilla, MCPC, CARC, CASAC-T

The specific tasks, responsibilities, and roles of supervisors vary depending on agency mission, target population, theoretical model, treatment modality, and general structure. However, some basic competencies are common to a variety of settings and professional disciplines. This training session will highlight competencies in the Foundation Areas of Theories, Roles, and Modalities of Clinical Supervision, Leadership, Supervisory Alliance, Critical Thinking, and Organizational Management. Performance Domains identify specific areas of clinical supervision practice that are essential to protecting client welfare, achieving agency goals, and improving clinical services. Key competencies in each of the Performance Domains: Counselor Development, Professional and Ethical Standards, Program Development and Quality Assurance, Performance Evaluation, and Administration will also be reviewed.

The New England ATTC, in partnership with AdCare Educational Institute of New England is hosting this virtual session at the New England Summer School on 6/12/24 from 10:00am - 5:15pm with subject matter expert Lindy Lewis. This workshop provides an overview on the facets of cognition relevant to identifying risk factors in deficit coping. Following the discussion of these facets, participants will be introduced to a variety of techniques from various cognitive-behavioral models that are useful in relapse prevention work. This includes specific techniques such as the use of behavioral self-monitoring and homework strategies; the development of discrimination skills; specific techniques for cognitive restructuring for autonomic thoughts and beliefs; and problem solving. The course will also discuss applications to elderly and special populations and introduce the application to clinical issues such as insomnia and pain. Register now!!

The New England ATTC, in partnership with AdCare Educational Institute of New England is hosting this virtual session at the New England Summer School on 6/12/24 from 10:00am - 5:15pm with subject matter expert Jennifer Burns. A trauma-informed approach in substance use treatment involves understanding the prevalence and impact of trauma on individuals with substance use disorders and integrating this understanding into all aspects of treatment. It acknowledges that many individuals with substance use issues have experienced trauma and emphasizes creating a safe, supportive, and empowering environment for healing. This approach involves recognizing the signs and symptoms of trauma, avoiding re-traumatization, and implementing evidence-based practices that address both substance use and trauma-related issues simultaneously. It also involves fostering collaboration among interdisciplinary teams and prioritizing the well-being of both clients and providers. Register now!!

The New England ATTC, in partnership with AdCare Educational Institute of New England is hosting this session at the New England Summer School on 6/12/24 from 10:00am - 5:15pm with subject matter expert Haner Hernandez. This training introduces participants to the theoretical constructs that make up the Stages of Change model. Participants will learn about the different stages and their role in promoting behavioral change at the individual, family, and community levels. The model will be presented within the context of Substance Use Disorders (SUDs), with special emphasis on recovery and wellness. As a result of this training participants will be able to identify the theoretical constructs central to Stages of Change; name the stages of change and how individuals, families, and entire communities establish behavioral change goals and take steps toward change; and describe the specific techniques used to apply the Stages of Change Model in practice and articulate their role in promoting change for people with SUDs. Register now!!

The New England ATTC in partnership with the Massachusetts Bureau of Substance Addiction Services is providing intensive technical assistance in "Intermediate Motivational Interviewing" on 6/12/24 and 6/13/24 from 9:00 am to 12:15 pm with subject matter expert Robert Jope. Motivational Interviewing is a client-centered, evidence-based, goal-oriented method for enhancing intrinsic motivation to change by exploring and resolving ambivalence with the individual. This active, skill-building workshop provides participants with a review of the spirit and micro skills of MI, and focuses on using the strategies of the model to elicit change talk in conversation. Participants will integrate the spirit, skills, and strategies in practice conversations, and are encouraged to attend the Advanced MI workshop to develop proficiency in this method.  [This is a private, targeted technical assistance (TA) event.  If you are interested in similar TA please contact [email protected]]

The New England ATTC, in partnership with Adcare Educational Institute of New England and the New England PTTC is providing intensive technical assistance in the  Leadership Development Program (LDP) - Cohort 10 Module 6 beginning 6/12/24 with subject matter experts Lori Weaver, Peter Smith, Haner Hernandez, and Ginger Lever. The LDP focuses on key leadership skills using a range of learning methods designed to increase participant effectiveness. This program includes the use of a highly diverse, intact learning community that includes participants from across the treatment, prevention, intervention, and recovery support service continuum. Interested, current, and former participants can access information regarding the LDP broadly, meet our team, learn more about the admissions process and requirements, and apply for the program through the LDP website: https://sites.brown.edu/ldp-newengland/

This is a beginner friendly, data focused training that covers LGBTQ+ identity, outcomes, and increasing patient engagement in services. The training will give participants a broad understanding of LGBTQ+ culture, demographic terms, the data on population experiences, and tools that can be used in patient care and within an organization as a whole. The training will make individuals more comfortable and confident when interacting with and treating LGBTQ+ communities. Goals/objectives: • Identify the barriers LGBTQ+ Patients encounter when accessing health care services • Increase understanding of LGBTQ+ populations and cultural history especially as it relates to substance use • Cite existing tools and process improvement strategies related to providing services for LGBTQ+ patients BIO: Faye Seidler is an award winning advocate that specializes in suicide prevention, LGBTQ+ populations, and state data. She was born and raised in North Dakota and has a decade of experience in community organizing, public speaking, and professional development training. She is known for connecting and uplifting others, bringing communities together, and always keeping hope in focus.

We have another offering taking place on June 25, 2024! This training is intended for any provider who is caring for or in contact with LGBT individuals, including mental health and substance use disorder clinicians, HIV healthcare providers, government employees, primary care providers, public health practitioners, prevention specialists, community-based organizations, educators, and school-based care providers and staff. The training includes an introduction to key terms and concepts (such as gender identity and sexual orientation), treatment considerations for clinical work, and addressing the specific needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals.   LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Recall two (2) factors that might contribute to substance use among LGBT clients. Identify two (2) barriers for health screening and medical care for LGBT clients. Recognize two (2) health issues/behaviors for which LGBT clients have a higher risk. Identify two (2) strategies service providers can implement to create affirming environments for LGBT people. Specify one (1) treatment approach that has been shown effective with LGBT populations. Explain the concept of “cultural humility” and theorize one (1) way that it differs from “cultural competency.” Analyze two (2) strategies for creating culturally affirming interactions.     CERTIFICATES: Those who fully attend will be eligible to receive 3 NAADAC continuing education (CE) hours. NAADAC CE certificates will be sent to qualifying participants via email within 1-2 weeks after the conclusion of the training.     TRAINERS:   Tom Freese is the Director of Training, UCLA Integrated Substance Abuse Programs; Director, Pacific Southwest Addiction Technology Transfer Center, HHS Region 9; Co-Director           Grant Hovik, MA is a Trainer and Online Curriculum Developer, UCLA Integrated Substance Abuse Programs and the Pacific Southwest Addiction Technology Transfer Center           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 New England ATTC, in partnership with AdCare Educational Institute of New England is hosting this session at the New England Summer School on 6/11/24 from 10:00am - 5:15pm with subject matter expert Brenda Westberry. The presence of violence in a community increases not only the potential number of victims of violence but also increases the likely number of perpetrators of violence, fostering an ongoing cycle of violence in communities afflicted by this public health disease. In this course, participants will examine a range of factors that increases an individual’s risk of being a victim or perpetrator of drug related interpersonal violence; identify and explore historic forms of systemic racism in communities; evaluate the interconnectedness between race, violence, poverty and crime; and explore the types of violence and trauma related issues that have impacted minorities and communities of color. Register now!!

The New England ATTC in partnership with the Health Education & Training Institute is providing targeted technical assistance in Advancing Your Group Practice Using Motivational Interviewing on 6/11/24 with nationally renowned motivational interviewing (MI) trainer Stephen Andrew. Using Motivational Interviewing in a therapeutic support group format is highly effective and provides several important steps that help break isolation. Training objectives are 1) to define the different types of groups and to understand the effectiveness of groups; 2) to identify an effective  group work strategy for different group problems; 3) to learn a model of the process of change in group work and to anticipate potential pitfalls as a group leader; and 4) to understand the consumer's reactions to groups and the effects those reactions have on the group as a whole.  [This is a private, targeted technical assistance (TA) event.  If you are interested in similar TA please contact [email protected]]