BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Vermont Addiction Professionals Association - ECPv6.15.18//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://vapavt.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Vermont Addiction Professionals Association REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20230312T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20231105T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20240310T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20241103T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20250309T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20251102T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20260308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20261101T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20270314T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20271107T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241003T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241003T163000 DTSTAMP:20260406T081541 CREATED:20240506T105409Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240920T191719Z UID:2131-1727946000-1727973000@vapavt.org SUMMARY:Building the Bridge: Effective screening\, brief intervention\, and referral to services and support for young people faced with substance use or mental health challenges DESCRIPTION:Registration Deadline 9/26/24 \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER\n\n\n\n\nLOCATION: Windjammer/Best Western 1076 Williston Rd\, South Burlington\, VT 05403 \n\n\n\nTRAINER: \n\n\n\nMitchell Barron\, LICSW LADC \n\n\n\nTrained as a clinical social worker and addiction treatment provider\, Mitch Barron is a Principal with Centerpoint Consultation\, Training\, Technical Assistance (CTTA)\, with a focus on systems and practice improvement and advisory roles within child protection services and the judiciary. Mitch is also a Director with Principles to Practice\, L3C\, which includes supervision\, leadership coaching\, and clinical practice. Mitch is Co-Lead with the Vermont Treatment Enhancement Program (VTEP)\, having previously been a Principal with the federally-funded Youth Treatment Enhancement Program. For 26 years\, Mitch served as the Director of Centerpoint ATS\, Vermont’s largest provider of integrated treatment for adolescents and families. In this role\, he was responsible for insuring the highest-quality services and support to meet the mental health\, substance abuse\, and special education needs of Vermont teens\, young adults\, and their families. Mitch has served as National Treatment Faculty with Reclaiming Futures\, a public health and juvenile justice reform organization based at Portland State University\, Oregon. Mitch has provided tenured leadership with the Vermont Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council and the Vermont Association of Addiction Treatment Providers and has fulfilled Board leadership roles with regional youth development\, health promotion\, and substance abuse prevention coalitions. Through his career\, Mitch has been a practicing clinician\, clinical supervisor\, program director\, educator\, and administrator. He teaches\, trains\, and consults regionally and nationally on a variety of topics related to adolescent and family mental health\, addiction\, resiliency\, and well-being. \n\n\n\nDESCRIPTION: \n\n\n\nScreening\, Brief-Intervention\, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) programming continues to blend and braid some of the most promising practices of integrated healthcare\, public health modeling\, and full-range of PITRE (Prevention\, Intervention\, Treatment\, Recovery\, Enforcement) frames in efforts to address the hazards and reduce the harms of substanceuse. As with all youth and family-focused services\, developmentally matchedconsiderations are essential to ensure that models and frames typically designed for the ‘general public’ are adapted and applied for the novel needs of young people and their caregivers.Both introductory and intensive (review and application) and building upon four decades of foundational developments within SBIRT programming\, this training identifies principles and practices that allow the most effective ‘client-centering’ service\, across the contexts with which young people are most often engaged. This training is designed to be dynamic\, participatory\, curious\, creative\, and FUN (as should be our work with the young people we serve!). All are welcome for Building the Bridge: Effective screening\, brief intervention\, and referral to services and support for young people faced with substance use or mental health challenges. \n\n\n\nAGENDA: \n\n\n\nThere will be (2) 15 minute breaks\, scheduled for 10:45 and 3:00\, and a 1 hour lunch break scheduled for noon. \n\n\n\n9:00  \n\n\n\nGather\, Welcome\, Introductions\,  \n\n\n\nOrientation and Grounding: Why this? Why now? \n\n\n\nBuilding the Bridge and Readiness for Change: Developmentally-Matched Care \n\n\n\nThe work and the job(s)… \n\n\n\n9:30 \n\n\n\nEssential Elements of SBIRT Modeling: Principles and Practices \n\n\n\nStandard Care vs. Adolescent Care: Where do we start? \n\n\n\n10:00 \n\n\n\nScreening: What is it good for? \n\n\n\nUniversal (Public Health Screening) or/and Client-Centered Care (Situational Screening) \n\n\n\nMethods and Modes of Screening: Validity\, Reliability\, Relevance (CRAFFT 2.1\, MAYSI-2\, \n\n\n\nand the briefest of screeners) \n\n\n\nService to Science: Models and Apps (Project Checkpoint\, Check Yourself\, and \n\n\n\nparticipant engagement) \n\n\n\nInclusivity\, Adaptation\, Accommodation\, Sociocultural Context\, and Intersectional Identities  \n\n\n\n11:00 \n\n\n\nBrief Intervention: What is it good for? \n\n\n\nPrinciples and Practices – the ‘Spirit’ of Motivational Interviewing\, matched to the \n\n\n\nadolescent mind\, body\, and ‘spirit’ \n\n\n\nBuilding the bridge: Core Principles of Effective Adolescent Engagement \n\n\n\nSamples\, Examples\, Rehearsal\, and Role Play \n\n\n\n1:00 \n\n\n\nRegroup\, Reground\, Review \n\n\n\n1:15 \n\n\n\nBrief Intervention across contexts \n\n\n\nHazards and Harms \n\n\n\n2:00 \n\n\n\nReferral to Services and Supports: What is it good for? \n\n\n\nBuilding the bridge: Core Principles of Effective Adolescent Treatment \n\n\n\nThe ‘real’ warm hand-off: what are we hoping to achieve? \n\n\n\nSetting the Stage for Success \n\n\n\nWhat does a young person seek\, prefer\, and require? \n\n\n\nWhat do parents/caregivers seek\, prefer\, and require? \n\n\n\nWhat do providers and programs seek\, prefer\, and require? \n\n\n\n3:15 \n\n\n\nOpportunities and Obligations \n\n\n\nWhat happens when\, what happens if… anticipating the obstacles in all forms \n\n\n\nAncillary/Adjacent Skills and Strategies \n\n\n\nWhat matters most? And what did we miss? \n\n\n\nIdeas into Action \n\n\n\n4:30 \n\n\n\nAppreciations and Conclusions \n\n\n\nLEARNING OBJECTIVES: \n\n\n\n\nReview key components of standard and dynamic SBIRT programming\, with a focus towardadolescent and family adaptation and application.\n\n\n\nReview and rehearse developmentally\, socially\, and culturally-matched models of screening\,brief intervention\, and enhanced referral and engagement.\n\n\n\nExplore Core Principles of Effective Adolescent Treatment© as relevant for SBIRT modeling.\n\n\n\nConsider the differentiated cultural\, racial\, and intersectional needs and opportunities withdiverse youth populations\, particularly for those marginalized in our communities and systemsof care. URL:https://vapavt.org/training/building-the-bridge-effective-screening-brief-intervention-and-referral-to-services-and-support-for-young-people-faced-with-substance-use-or-mental-health-challenges/ LOCATION:Vermont END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241101T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241101T163000 DTSTAMP:20260406T081541 CREATED:20240506T105541Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240506T105542Z UID:2126-1730451600-1730478600@vapavt.org SUMMARY:Recovery-Oriented Transformational Leadership  DESCRIPTION:Registration deadline 10/25/24 \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER\n\n\n\n\nLOCATION: VIRTUAL \n\n\n\nTRAINER: \n\n\n\nSamson Teklemariam\, LPC\, CPTM\, is the Vice President of Clinical Services for Behavioral Health Group (BHG). Samson also serves as the Southeast Regional Vice President for NAADAC\, the Association for Addiction Professionals. He is an accomplished leader with a history of driving organizational results with learning and development solutions. He was formerly the Director of Training and Professional Development for NAADAC and National Director of Learning and Development for Phoenix House Foundation. Samson is a certified lea trainer for the Cognitive Behavioral Interventions for Substance Abuse (CBISA) curriculum\, Calm Every Storm: Crisis Prevention & Intervention curriculum\, and experienced in treating trauma-related disorders using trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TFCBT) and Seeking Safety. \n\n\n\nDESCRIPTION: \n\n\n\nAccording to the Department of Employment and Development\, indicators show that over 15% of mental health and substance use counselors are predicted to leave their profession in the next year. “Quiet quitting\,” a workforce disruptor\, has recently impacted the addiction profession. Now more than ever\, effective leadership can be the difference-maker of a successful or failing program. Existing and emerging leaders need a recovery-oriented leadership model that is ideal for the workforce and patients we serve. This presentation will identify some of the challenges in creating a stable and healthy work culture for recovery organizations and provide a leadership framework that blends evidence-based leadership strategies that fit the addiction profession’s primary leadership needs. \n\n\n\nAGENDA: \n\n\n\nMorning: 9:00 am – Noon \n\n\n\n\nWelcome & Introductions\n\n\n\nExamining Workforce Disruptors: An Era of Instability\n\n\n\nUnderstanding the Addiction Profession’s Primary Leadership Needs\n\n\n\nExercise: What type of leader are you (leadership style self-assessment activity)?\n\n\n\n\nBreak 10:30 – 10:45 am. \n\n\n\n\nIntroducing Recovery-Oriented Leadership in Healthcare from literature reviews\n\n\n\nDiscussing Person-Centered Leadership and the Parallel Process\n\n\n\nRecovery-Oriented Transformational Leadership as a blended leadership framework\n\n\n\nExercise: Review most common leadership style questions and answers from leadership style self-assessment (introduction to leadership case studies group review)\n\n\n\n\nLunch: 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm \n\n\n\nAfternoon:  1:00 pm to 4:30 pm \n\n\n\n\nCollaborative Leadership\n\n\n\nThe Studer Group and Rounding\n\n\n\nExercise: Brief pair up for rounding activity \n\n\n\nThe Neuroscience of Trust\n\n\n\n\nBreak 2:30 – 2:45pm. \n\n\n\n\nDisciplines of Execution\n\n\n\nUnderstanding OKRs vs. KPIs\n\n\n\nThe 12 Steps (Commitments of a Leader)\n\n\n\nWrap-Up: Q&A\n\n\n\n\nAdjourn: 4:30 pm \n\n\n\nLEARNING OBJECTIVES: \n\n\n\n\nParticipants will be able to distinguish a leadership framework that fits in recovery organizations.\n\n\n\nParticipants will be able to summarize four evidence-based leadership models tailored specifically for integrated care settings.\n\n\n\nParticipants will learn how to implement an outcome and key results (OKR) system. URL:https://vapavt.org/training/recovery-oriented-transformational-leadership/ LOCATION:Vermont END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241112T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241112T163000 DTSTAMP:20260406T081541 CREATED:20240506T105706Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240506T105707Z UID:2071-1731402000-1731429000@vapavt.org SUMMARY:Cultural Competency DESCRIPTION:registration deadline 11/5/2023 \n\n\n\n\nregister\n\n\n\n\nDESCRIPTION: \n\n\n\nThis training will address the core concepts of Cultural Competency\, also referred to as Cultural Humility or Cultural Sensitivity. This training is created to challenge your assumptions and take each participant out of their comfort zone. This training is meant to challenge each individual’s belief systems and perceptions of their work and clients. This training may be uncomfortable and triggering at times\, and participants are asked to be respectful of one another while navigating difficult conversations. The main purpose of this training is to enhance overall service delivery to each client. \n\n\n\nTRAINER: \n\n\n\nKarinne Comenzo\, MA\, LICSW\, LADC is currently the Assistant Director of Clinical Services for the River Valley Therapeutic Residence. Prior to this role\, Karinne worked for the Vermont Department of Corrections as Chief Clinical Specialist for five years. The majority of her human services career was providing mental health and substance abuse treatment services to marginalized populations in New York City. This included individuals experiencing homelessness\, incarceration\, sex trafficking\, and domestic violences\, among others. Karinne holds an MA in Forensic Psychology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice and an MSW from New York University. She is licensed in Vermont as an LICSW and LADC\, and licensed in New York as an LMSW. When Karinne is not focused on helping others in her work\, you can find her engaged in hot exercise classes\, dance class with her two young kiddos\, or throwing a ball for her Australian Cattle Dog.  \n\n\n\nAGENDA: \n\n\n\nMorning: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm \n\n\n\n\nWelcome and Introductions\n\n\n\nWhat is culture?\n\n\n\nWhat is cultural competency?\n\n\n\nUnderlying principles\n\n\n\n\nBreak 10:30 – 10:45 am \n\n\n\n\nReview of applicable Code of Ethics\n\n\n\nChallenging perceptions\n\n\n\n\nLunch: 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm \n\n\n\nAfternoon:  1:00 pm to 4:30 pm \n\n\n\n\nChallenging perceptions (cont.) and assumptions\n\n\n\nSelf awareness as practitioners\n\n\n\nApplying Cultural Competency concepts to service delivery\n\n\n\n\nBreak 2:30 – 2:45pm \n\n\n\n\nProgrammatic considerations\n\n\n\nCultural Competency and colleagues\n\n\n\n\nAdjourn: 4:30 pm \n\n\n\nLEARNING OBJECTIVES: \n\n\n\n\nDefine culture\n\n\n\nIdentify three ways our own culture impacts our work\n\n\n\n​Identify three ways Cultural Competency can improve service delivery and client experience\n\n\n\nIdentify three general skills and strategies for culturally sensitive service delivery\n\n\n\nDefine the Intention Impact Model URL:https://vapavt.org/training/cultural-competency/ LOCATION:Windjammer\, 1076 Williston Rd\, South Burlington\, 05453 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241203T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241203T163000 DTSTAMP:20260406T081541 CREATED:20220215T162132Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240506T105850Z UID:1215-1733216400-1733243400@vapavt.org SUMMARY:Relational Ethics Development DESCRIPTION:virtually \n\n\n\n\nregister\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nRegistration deadline: 11/26/24 \n\n\n\nTrainer: \n\n\n\nMita M Johnson\, EdD\, NCC\, LPC\, LMFT\, LAC\, ACS\, LMFT-S\, MAC\, SAP\, BCTHP\, has been practicing in the world of mental health\, marriage and family\, and addictions counseling for over 30 years. She earned her Doctorate in counselor education and supervision and is a core faculty member in the School of Counseling program at Walden University. In addition\, she has a thriving private practice where she provides clinical supervision\, counseling services to our military\, and co-occurring and addiction-specific training and education around the country (ethics\, pharmacology\, culturally responsive care\, clinical supervision\, et al.).  She has been an active member of NAADAC for the last 15 years\, has served as the Ethics Chair\, and began her term as NAADAC’s Immediate Past-President in October 2022. \n\n\n\nDescription: \n\n\n\nProfessional Wounded Healer:  The Ethical Need to Promote Psychological Wellness within Oneself \n\n\n\nThe COVID-19 pandemic was a time during which many clinicians worked selflessly to be available to their clients who were struggling during the time of isolation.  What we have since learned is that the practice of self-care – by those of us in the helping professions – is one of the most important ethical activities that we can engage in.  The emotional cost of the work we do is immense; the need for ethical practices that support self-care and self-compassion is equally immense.  This workshop will delve into what ethics and self-care looks like for behavioral healthcare (mental health & substance use disorder) professionals.  This highly interactive and experiential session will look at ethics and moral injury\, vicarious trauma\, self-compassion\, self-forgiveness\, and healing as they relate to professionals working in the trenches. \n\n\n\nAgenda: \n\n\n\n9:00 am: Introductions \n\n\n\n9:15 am: Ethics\, morals\, values in practice.  The counseling relationship.  The supervisory relationship. The consultant relationship. Exploring communication skills – verbal and written. Extroverts and introverts. \n\n\n\n10:00 am: Updates in the NAADAC Code of Ethics revised 2024.  Standards of practice. Scope of practice. Ethics in group counseling. Ethics in telehealth. \n\n\n\n10:30 – 10:45 am: Break \n\n\n\n10:45 – 12:00 pm: Confidentiality versus privacy.  The ethics of using social media with clients.  Self-disclosures.  Professional versus personal self-care.   \n\n\n\n12:00 – 1:00 pm: Lunch \n\n\n\n1:00 – 1:30 pm: The emotional costs of the work we engage in.  Isolation versus connectedness.  Emotional intelligence and ethics. \n\n\n\n1:30 – 2:00 pm: Self-compassion. Self-forgiveness.  Emotional healing. Emotional capital. Recovery capital. \n\n\n\n2:00 – 3:00 pm: Ethical concerns associated with vicarious trauma\, moral injury\, professional burnout\, emotional exhaustion. \n\n\n\n3:00 – 4:30 pm: Explore ways to actively and practically include biopsychosocial-spiritual-emotional strategies that build macro and micro professional self-care.   Risk management for ethical practice. \n\n\n\nLearning objectives: \n\n\n\nThe objectives of this workshop:  Participants in this workshop will be able to: \n\n\n\n\nDefine the ethical concerns associated with vicarious trauma\, moral injury\, professional burnout\, emotional exhaustion\n\n\n\nDefine professional versus personal self-care and its influence on confidentiality\n\n\n\nDescribe the emotional costs of the work we engage in – both overt and covert – and how those costs influence our ethical judgment\n\n\n\nExplain what we mean by ethics related to self-compassion\, self-forgiveness\, emotional healing\, and emotional capital\n\n\n\nExplore ways to actively and practically include various biopsychosocial-spiritual-emotional strategies that build macro and micro  professional self-care\n\n\n\nDiscuss how professional and personal self-care is foundational to ethical professional practice\n\n\n\n\n6 Credits: NAADAC CU’s are approved \n\n\n\nSocial Worker CE’s\, Allied MH CE’s and Psychologists CE’s pending URL:https://vapavt.org/training/ethics-for-the-addiction-professional-3/ LOCATION:Vermont ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://vapavt.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Mita-J-637672083846230000-e1637088134381.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250109T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250109T163000 DTSTAMP:20260406T081541 CREATED:20241213T145116Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241213T145118Z UID:2386-1736413200-1736440200@vapavt.org SUMMARY:Cultural Competency DESCRIPTION:Registration deadline: 1/2/25 \n\n\n\nVirtual \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER\n\n\n\n\nDESCRIPTION: \n\n\n\nThis training will address the core concepts of Cultural Competency\, also referred to as Cultural Humility or Cultural Sensitivity. This training is created to challenge your assumptions and take each participant out of their comfort zone. This training is meant to challenge each individual’s belief systems and perceptions of their work and clients. This training may be uncomfortable and triggering at times\, and participants are asked to be respectful of one another while navigating difficult conversations. The main purpose of this training is to enhance overall service delivery to each client. \n\n\n\nTRAINER: \n\n\n\nKarinne Comenzo\, MA\, LICSW\, LADC is currently the Assistant Director of Clinical Services for the River Valley Therapeutic Residence. Prior to this role\, Karinne worked for the Vermont Department of Corrections as Chief Clinical Specialist for five years. The majority of her human services career was providing mental health and substance abuse treatment services to marginalized populations in New York City. This included individuals experiencing homelessness\, incarceration\, sex trafficking\, and domestic violences\, among others. Karinne holds an MA in Forensic Psychology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice and an MSW from New York University. She is licensed in Vermont as an LICSW and LADC\, and licensed in New York as an LMSW. When Karinne is not focused on helping others in her work\, you can find her engaged in hot exercise classes\, dance class with her two young kiddos\, or throwing a ball for her Australian Cattle Dog.  \n\n\n\nAGENDA: \n\n\n\nMorning: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm \n\n\n\n\nWelcome and Introductions\n\n\n\nWhat is culture?\n\n\n\nWhat is cultural competency?\n\n\n\nUnderlying principles\n\n\n\n\nBreak 10:30 – 10:45 am \n\n\n\n\nReview of applicable Code of Ethics\n\n\n\nChallenging perceptions\n\n\n\n\nLunch: 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm \n\n\n\nAfternoon:  1:00 pm to 4:30 pm \n\n\n\n\nChallenging perceptions (cont.) and assumptions\n\n\n\nSelf awareness as practitioners\n\n\n\nApplying Cultural Competency concepts to service delivery\n\n\n\n\nBreak 2:30 – 2:45pm \n\n\n\n\nProgrammatic considerations\n\n\n\nCultural Competency and colleagues\n\n\n\n\nAdjourn: 4:30 pm \n\n\n\nLEARNING OBJECTIVES: \n\n\n\nDefine the Intention Impact Model \n\n\n\nDefine culture \n\n\n\nIdentify three ways our own culture impacts our work \n\n\n\n​Identify three ways Cultural Competency can improve service delivery and client experience \n\n\n\nIdentify three general skills and strategies for culturally sensitive service delivery URL:https://vapavt.org/training/cultural-competency-2/ LOCATION:Vermont END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250213T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250213T163000 DTSTAMP:20260406T081541 CREATED:20241023T104905Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241115T114014Z UID:2290-1739437200-1739464200@vapavt.org SUMMARY:Trauma Informed Care DESCRIPTION:Registration deadline 2/6/2025 \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER\n\n\n\n\nVirtual/Zoom \n\n\n\nTrainer: \n\n\n\nRebecca Miller\, MPH\, MS brings over 5 years of Environmental Health & Safety emergency response\, nearly 3 years in community-based participatory research\, and over a decade in trauma-informed care giving lived-experience to the trauma-informed care practitioner space. Rebecca Miller joined the Case Comprehensive Cancer Center in April 2022. She accepted the position as project director of the Cleveland African American Prostate Cancer Project (CAAPP) in an effort to help create and drive novel patient-centered strategies for community intervention. Accordingly\, Rebecca serves as a facilitator and bridge between community members\, researchers\, clinicians\, and institutional partners in order to help provide the educational and care-centered resources required to increase prostate cancer screening and awareness in the Black community. Rebecca has also instructed two courses at Case Western Reserve University\, Topics in Urban Health in the United States and Health Education Advocacy Link (H.E.A.L): A Comprehensive Training for Health Professional Students Centered on Targeting Social Disparity and Improving Health Literacy. \n\n\n\nDescription: \n\n\n\nIn this engaging 6 hour training\, attendees will explore the intentional application and integration of trauma-informed care approaches into measurably successful and sustainable programs for practitioners and organizations. We will make meaning of the complex terminology and theory around trauma and define the problem in ways that are relevant to you and your work. Attendees will receive concrete tools\, best practices\, and resources to support their efforts to curate their own trauma-informed care models\, policies\, and practices that truly change environments and cultures to be more sensitive and responsive to the needs of our patients\, clients\, families\, and others using this trauma-informed lens. \n\n\n\nAgenda: \n\n\n\n\n9AM – Introduction\n\n\n\n9:30AM – Background\n\n\n\n10:00AM – Trauma-Informed Approaches (TIA)\n\n\n\n10:30AM – BREAK\n\n\n\n10:45AM – Assessment of TIA\n\n\n\n11:20AM – Assessment of TIA Case Studies\n\n\n\n12:00PM – LUNCH\n\n\n\n1:00PM – Implementation of TIA\n\n\n\n2:00PM – Measuring Success & Ensuring Sustainability of TIA\n\n\n\n2:45PM – BREAK\n\n\n\n3:00PM – Case Studies & Best Practices Toolkit\n\n\n\n4:30 PM – End\n\n\n\n\nLearning Objectives: \n\n\n\nAs a result of this training\, participants will be able to: \n\n\n\nApply intentional trauma-informed strategies and principles to enhance workplace and programing procedures and practices centered on improving sensitivity and responsiveness to trauma responses in the many ways they manifest. \n\n\n\nIntegrate seminal literature on trauma and trauma-informed education pedagogy into systems and processes that will help measure the successful implementation of the trauma-informed approach at the individual practitioner and organizational level. \n\n\n\nRefine existing trauma-informed practices to reflect\, include\, and partner with those most impacted by the burden of trauma to create change that is effective\, sustainable\, and valuable. URL:https://vapavt.org/training/trauma-informed-care-2/ LOCATION:Vermont END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250318T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250318T163000 DTSTAMP:20260406T081541 CREATED:20241026T131506Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241127T133538Z UID:2293-1742288400-1742315400@vapavt.org SUMMARY:Taking Action DESCRIPTION:Deescalation\, Bystander Intervention\, and Professional Obligation \n\n\n\n\n\nRegistration deadline 3/11/2025 \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTrainer: \n\n\n\nKarinne Comenzo\, MA\, LICSW\, LADC is the former Assistant Director of Clinical Services for the River Valley Therapeutic Residence. Prior to this role\, Karinne worked for the Vermont Department of Corrections as Chief Clinical Specialist for five years. Karinne currently runs a private practice and supports UVMMC Primary Care providers who prescribe medications for Opiate Use Disorder. The majority of her human services career was providing mental health and substance abuse treatment services to marginalized populations in New York City. This included individuals experiencing homelessness\, incarceration\, sex trafficking\, and domestic violences\, among others. Karinne holds an MA in Forensic Psychology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice and an MSW from New York University. When Karinne is not focused on helping others in her work\, you can find her engaged in hot exercise classes\, dance class with her two young kiddos\, or throwing a ball for her Australian Cattle Dog.  \n\n\n\nDescription: \n\n\n\nThis training is meant to provide behavioral health professionals with guidance on how to take action in best service of their clients and community. This will include general bystander intervention\, more targeted de-escalation skills\, and professional responsibilities within the workplace. This training will also allow behavioral health professionals to consider when and how to take action\, to include professional obligations\, along with potential ramifications or consequences. \n\n\n\nAgenda: \n\n\n\nMorning: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm \n\n\n\n\nWelcome and Introductions\n\n\n\nUnderstanding training terms\n\n\n\nOverview of brain response to trauma\n\n\n\nSafety\, Self-Efficacy\, Self-Awareness\n\n\n\n\nBreak 10:30 – 10:45 am. \n\n\n\n\nNon-coercive approach to conflict management\n\n\n\nUnderstanding Conflict\n\n\n\nAssault Cycle\n\n\n\n\nLunch: 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm \n\n\n\nAfternoon:  1:00 pm to 4:30 pm \n\n\n\n\nAssault Cycle (continued)\n\n\n\nAnger Management\n\n\n\nUnderstanding Bystander Intervention\n\n\n\n\nBreak 2:30 – 2:45pm. \n\n\n\n\nProgrammatic Considerations\n\n\n\nProfessional Obligations\n\n\n\n\nAdjourn: 4:30 pm \n\n\n\nLearning Objectives: \n\n\n\n\nDefine strategies to de-escalation potentially violent situations\n\n\n\nIdentify preliminary signs of conflict before they escalate\n\n\n\n​Identify behaviors that may agitate individuals\n\n\n\nDefine Bystander Intervention\n\n\n\nUnderstand professional role and obligations in high stress situations URL:https://vapavt.org/training/taking-action/ LOCATION:Windjammer/Best Western\, 1076 Williston Rd\, South Burlington\, Vermont\, 05453 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250328T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250328T163000 DTSTAMP:20260406T081541 CREATED:20241023T105058Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241023T105059Z UID:2296-1743152400-1743179400@vapavt.org SUMMARY:Coercive Control and Human Trafficking: A Trauma Informed Response DESCRIPTION:Registration deadline 3/21/2025 \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTrainer: \n\n\n\nMy name is Molly Milliken. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have spent most of my career in service to incarcerated women. Most recently I spent 4.5 years working for the Vermont Network Against Domestic Violence’s DIVAS Program which is based inside Chittenden Regional Correctional Facility. Now\, I am the Contingency Management Coordinator at the Chittenden Clinic\, and I have my own private practice in Addison County\, where I live. I became a social worker due to my family history of generational trauma and like many in this field\, I wanted to break the cycle of violence. I believe everyone deserves to be treated with unconditional positive regard because of the complex nature of the human existence. I have my own little homestead with two horses\, my dog\, and three cats. Dark humor\, my animals\, friends and partner keep me busy yet sane. I try to take care of myself and my community and encourage others to do the same. \n\n\n\nDescription: \n\n\n\nThis training is designed to educate professionals in helping fields about the complexity of what is commonly known as human trafficking. The training elaborates on the nuances of coercive control\, forced labor\, exploitation and forced criminality as well as intersections between trafficking and intimate partner violence. Attendants will learn how to respond with evidence-based strategies such as harm reduction and trauma informed care. We will learn how to identify red flags and warning signs that someone may be stuck in a trafficking scenario and how to respond appropriately. We also discuss at length how helpers need to maintain effective supervision\, peer support and self-care while supporting trafficking survivors. This training is relevant for those in social services\, education\, medicine\, first responders\, and many other not listed professions. \n\n\n\nAgenda & Learning Objectives: \n\n\n\n9:00-10:30Welcome & Introductions-Check ins:Exercise: Why is this training important\, and why are we here?Pre-survey10:30 – 10:45 am-break10:45-12:00Objective 1: Identify and Define TraffickingUnderstand the legal definitions of commercial sexual exploitation\, commercial labor exploitation and forced criminalityLess understood examplesObjective 2: Identify possible exploitation factors and maintenance of power\, control and loyalty- “why don’t they just leave?!”Vignette\, survivor video and small groupsDiscuss supervision and self-care12:00-1:00 Lunch1:00-2:30Objective 3: Identify red flags\, recruiting/grooming behavior\, coercive control and identify if someone is in a trafficking situationVignette\, survivor video and small groupsObjective 4: Apply evidence based responses in order to support trafficking survivorsTrauma Informed Care and Harm ReductionHow is effective supervision and self-care relevant to possible intervention strategies?Vignette and small groups2:30-2:45 Break2:45-4:30Objective 4: How is effective supervision and self-care relevant to possible intervention strategies?Objective 5: Refer to community resources which are available to support trafficking survivorsMaintaining trauma informed care for survivors and practitioners4:30 pm-DONE URL:https://vapavt.org/training/coercive-control-and-human-trafficking-a-trauma-informed-response/ LOCATION:Windjammer/Best Western\, 1076 Williston Rd\, South Burlington\, Vermont\, 05453 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250430T073000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250430T163000 DTSTAMP:20260406T081541 CREATED:20250127T141404Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250214T174105Z UID:2309-1745998200-1746030600@vapavt.org SUMMARY:Progressing Forward in Relapse Prevention: Dealing with Stigma & VAPA annual meeting DESCRIPTION:Meeting open to all \n\n\n\nRegistration deadline 4/23/2025 \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSCHEDULE: \n\n\n\nCheck-in & Coffee: 7:30am – 8:00am \n\n\n\nVAPA Annual Meeting (All are welcome!): 8:00am – 9:00am \n\n\n\nAM Session 9:00am – 12:15pm \n\n\n\nLunch 12:15pm – 1:15pm (Lunch is NOT included) \n\n\n\nPM Session 1:15pm – 4:30pm  \n\n\n\nTrainer: \n\n\n\nSamson Teklemariam\, LPC\, CPTM\, is the Vice President of Clinical Services for Behavioral Health Group (BHG). Samson also serves as the Southeast Regional Vice President for NAADAC\, the Association for Addiction Professionals. He is an accomplished leader with a history of driving organizational results with learning and development solutions. He was formerly the Director of Training and Professional Development for NAADAC and National Director of Learning and Development for Phoenix House Foundation. Samson is a certified lea trainer for the Cognitive Behavioral Interventions for Substance Abuse (CBISA) curriculum\, Calm Every Storm: Crisis Prevention & Intervention curriculum\, and experienced in treating trauma-related disorders using trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TFCBT) and Seeking Safety. \n\n\n\nDescription: \n\n\n\nSubstance use disorder (SUD) is most often defined as a chronic disease involving a common repeatingcycle of abstinence and relapse. ‘Relapse’ refers to a return to a previous level of substance use after aperiod of considerable reduction or abstinence from substance use. It is common practice tocommunicate with patients that even when a person with SUD is in remission and no longer usingsubstances\, a relapse is always a possibility. Just as it is with every patient struggling with a chronicmedical condition\, the goal during an exacerbation is to restore the patient to stability and keep themmotivated and connected to treatment. However\, when helping professionals who are both providingcare and in recovery themselves experience relapse\, reactions vary. These reactions are often driven bynegative stigma and impact treatment decisions for both professionals and patients in recovery. \n\n\n\nAgenda: \n\n\n\nMorning: 9:00 am – 12:15pm Welcome & Introductions Understanding Relapse throughout the years The Stigma of SUD Recurrence Examine the data Exercise: Brief Pop-Quiz URL – destigmatizing ‘relapse’Break 10:30 – 10:45am Dealing with stigma: what our patients usually get vs. what they need Addressing Stigma with SUD Care Introducing the Harm Reduction Acceptability Scale (HRAS) Exercise: Complete the Harm Reduction Acceptability Scale (HRAS) Exercise: Breakout groups: HRAS Discussion Understanding why Harm Reduction Acceptability is important to deal with stigmaLunch: 12:15 pm to 1:15pmAfternoon: 1:15 pm to 4:30 pm What we know about the research of relapse: lit review and hearing from Joe Powell Understanding ADA protections for the SUD workforce: Hearing from Dr. Oce’ Harrison Addressing Shame: Hearing from Dan Griffin Top 5 Most Common Myths about Relapse Exercise: Group Competition – MythBusters: Facts vs. Fiction of RelapseBreak 2:30 – 2:45pm Apply Gorski’s Early Warning Sign Model for Relapse Prevention Apply Marlatt’s CBT Model for Relapse Prevention Adopting a Progressive Paradigm for Relapse Prevention Learning from a Lapse: Normalizing Drift Exercise: Pair-up: Identifying High Risk Situations to Personalize Relapse Prevention Reactive vs. Affirming Responses How to Assess patient readiness for MAT? It Begins with Us: Recovery-Ready Workplace Wrap-Up: Q&AAdjourn: 4:30 pm \n\n\n\nLearning Objectives: \n\n\n\n\nParticipants will be able to develop a progressive paradigm in relapse prevention for a chronic medicalcondition.\n\n\n\nParticipants will be able to summarize four reactive responses\, commonly found in MAT settings\, thatcontribute to the negative stigma of relapse in recovery.\n\n\n\nParticipants will be able to utilize a guided discussion tool to address the stigma of treating acondition that’s both chronic and relapsing. URL:https://vapavt.org/training/progressing-forward-in-relapse-prevention-dealing-with-stigma-and-vapa-annual-meeting/ LOCATION:Capitol Plaza Hotel Montpelier\, Tapestry Collection by Hilton\, 100 State St\, Montpelier\, Vermont\, 05602\, United States END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250918T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250918T163000 DTSTAMP:20260406T081541 CREATED:20241023T105305Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250402T132248Z UID:2304-1758186000-1758213000@vapavt.org SUMMARY:Problem Gambling DESCRIPTION:Registration deadline 9/11/2025 \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTrainer: Gary Mitchell \n\n\n\nDr. Mitchell recently earned his doctoral degree in psychology from California Southern University\, presenting and defending his doctoral project “A Qualitative Study on the Application of Positive Psychology to Problem Gambling.” He is a licensed alcohol and drug counselor in the state of Vermont\, a NAADAC master addiction counselor\, as well as an internationally certified problem gambling counselor. \n\n\n\nAfter working over 20 years as an insurance claims adjuster he began his career counseling in 2007 working for long term residential programs (6 to 18 months) in Connecticut. These programs focused on working with individuals struggling with co-occurring and addictive diagnosis. This helped him learn to develop strong therapeutic relationships with clients and to gain a deep understanding of the nature of addiction and co-occurring disorders. During this period\, Dr. Mitchell also worked with the Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services to assist in the development of the ‘DiGin’ program which was led by Dr. Lori Ruggle. The project integrated substance abuse\, mental health\, and gambling programs throughout the state. \n\n\n\nIn 2012 Dr. Mitchell moved to Vermont taking a position as an outpatient clinician for a designated agency\, eventually being promoted to director of the adult outpatient department. In 2016 he opened a part time private practice in Morrisville and Hardwick\, Vermont\, eventually leaving the designated agency in 2021 to dedicate his full attention to private practice. \n\n\n\nDr. Mitchell has previously presented continuing education seminars on problem gambling\, has been a guest lecture at Springfield College in their Masters of Mental Health program as well as an adjunct professor at the Community College of Vermont teaching an introduction to addiction course. He has been a guest on Vermont Public Radio and has been a contributing expert for various Vermont media sources. Dr. Mitchell is also an advisor to the director of the Vermont Office of Professional Regulations and was a contributor to updating the emergency rules of practice for the Licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselors in 2016-2017. \n\n\n\nDescription: \n\n\n\nWhile attention is now being given in Vermont to screening\, identifying\, and treating individuals that are struggling with problem gambling\, little attention has been given to their families. This presentation will look at how to identify the family members that have been effected by problem gambling as well as exploring how to rebuild those individual’s self-confidence and self-image. \n\n\n\nAgenda: \n\n\n\nMorning: 9:00 am – Noon Welcome Review and develop common language regarding gambling. o Who gambles? (Exercise) o The nature of gambling-what is it? \n\n\n\nBreak 10:30 – 10:45 am. A little discussion of the neurobiology of problem gambling o Similarities and differences of brain mechanisms between a problem gambling and substance use disorders. o Cognitive distortion/Gamblers Illusion o Why does this matter? \n\n\n\nLunch: 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm \n\n\n\nAfternoon: 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm Identifying family member effected by problem gambling: How do I help them identify if they are living with a problem gambler? (Exercise) What is the nature of the illusion for the family of a problem gambler? o The effect on the spouse. \n\n\n\n o The effect on the children. \n\n\n\nBreak 2:30 – 2:45pm. Identify how to help the family members find themselves. (Group Exercise) o Strengths o Self-Image o Trust in Self Identify how to improve the family members wellbeing. o Re-defining Purpose o Identifying Passions o Finding Happiness \n\n\n\nAdjourn: 4:30 pm \n\n\n\nLearning Objectives: \n\n\n\n\nUnderstand and define the scope of gambling.\n\n\n\nGain a better understanding of the effects of problem gambling on the families of theproblem gambler.\n\n\n\nLearn how to recognize and identify individuals that have been effected\, unknowing byproblem gambling of a family member.\n\n\n\nLearn to help this individuals recovery from the trauma of problem gambling\, findingthemselves and strengthening their wellbeing. URL:https://vapavt.org/training/problem-gambling/ LOCATION:Capitol Plaza Hotel Montpelier\, Tapestry Collection by Hilton\, 100 State St\, Montpelier\, Vermont\, 05602\, United States END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250924T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250924T163000 DTSTAMP:20260406T081541 CREATED:20230118T184718Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250721T183756Z UID:1591-1758704400-1758731400@vapavt.org SUMMARY:Motivational Interviewing DESCRIPTION:Registration deadline 9/17/2025 \n\n\n\n\nregister\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTrainer: Megan Kiernan\, LCMHC\, LADC \n\n\n\nMegan Kiernan is dually licensed counselor working in her own practice\, Lionheart Counseling\, LLC\, in Essex Junction\, VT. Ms. Kiernan has experience with evidence-based practices\, providing supervision in busy work environments\, and motivational enhancement techniques having worked for Phoenix House as a clinician and as Director of the Women’s Substance Abuse Program in the Chittenden Regional Correctional Facility (CRCF). She also worked as the Risk Reduction Coordinator at CRCF where she organized and supervised the running of mandated programming for high-risk offenders in Department of Corrections custody. \n\n\n\nAdditionally\, Ms. Kiernan has worked as a psychotherapist\, supervisor\, and trainer at Networks\, Inc. in Burlington\, VT. She has created and led trainings for the New England Addiction Technology Transfer Center\, Vermont Addictions Professional Association\, and AdCare Educational Institute of New England’s Summer School and Best Practices conferences\, as well as other local organizations. Ms. Kiernan has a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Vermont. She is a current board member for the Vermont Addictions Professional Association. \n\n\n\nDescription: \n\n\n\nThis training presents and encourages practice of motivational interviewing as created by William Miller and Stephen Rollnick. Motivational interviewing is a counseling style that can be used to help those who struggle with substance use disorder find the motivation to change their habits. It is also an effective style to use with other forms of addictive behavior. This skills-based training is appropriate for counselors who are beginners or intermediates in this style\, or for anyone looking to brush up on their MI skills. \n\n\n\nAgenda: \n\n\n\nMorning: 9:00 am – 10:15 am Welcome and Introductions Why use Motivational Interviewing (MI) Understanding ambivalence The spirit of MI What’s New in MIBreak 10:15 – 10:30 am Core Counseling Skills of MI EXERCISE: Practice OARS skills The processes of MI: EngagingLunch: 12:00 – 1:00 pmAfternoon: 1:00 – 2:45 pm The processes of MI continued: Focusing and Evoking EXERCISE: Practice Evoking Change Talk Review Ways to Respond to Sustain Talk EXERCISE: Practice responding to sustain talk with reflective responsesBreak 2:45 – 3:00 pm Watch and discuss Effective MI clip EXERCISE: Practice developing discrepancy EXERCISE: Learn and practice using confidence ruler The processes of MI continued: Planning Review and QuestionsAdjourn: 4:30 pm \n\n\n\nLearning Objectives: \n\n\n\n• Understand ambivalence and why to use motivational interviewing• Practice core counseling skills: open-ended questions\, affirmations\, reflections\, and summaries• Be able to use processes for engaging\, focusing\, evoking\, and planning• Recognize and evoke change talk• Use reflective listening skills to respond to sustain talk• Use effective MI tools including importance ruler and confidence ruler \n\n\n\nLunch is on participants own (1 hour) AM coffee & fruit / PM cookies provided \n\n\n\n6 Credits: NAADAC CU’s are approved \n\n\n\nSocial Worker CE’s\, Allied MH CE’s and Psychologists CE’s pending URL:https://vapavt.org/training/motivational-interviewing-2/ LOCATION:Delta Marriott\, 1117 Williston Rd\, South Burlington\, Vermont\, 05403\, United States END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251017T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251017T163000 DTSTAMP:20260406T081541 CREATED:20250415T110438Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260217T171700Z UID:2518-1760691600-1760718600@vapavt.org SUMMARY:Foundations of Clinical Supervision DESCRIPTION:online/Zoom \n\n\n\nregistration deadline 10/10/25 \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER\n\n\n\n\nTrainer: \n\n\n\nSamson Teklemariam\, LPC\, CPTM\, is the Vice President of Clinical Services for Behavioral Health Group (BHG). Samson also serves as the Southeast Regional Vice President for NAADAC\, the Association for Addiction Professionals. He is an accomplished leader with a history of driving organizational results with learning and development solutions. He was formerly the Director of Training and Professional Development for NAADAC and National Director of Learning and Development for Phoenix House Foundation. Samson is a certified lea trainer for the Cognitive Behavioral Interventions for Substance Abuse (CBISA) curriculum\, Calm Every Storm: Crisis Prevention & Intervention curriculum\, and experienced in treating trauma-related disorders using trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TFCBT) and Seeking Safety. \n\n\n\nDescription: \n\n\n\nClinical supervision is not just a regulatory requirement; it’s a critical mechanism for developing effective and ethical addiction treatment professionals in a dynamic and continuously evolving field. In this interactive training\, participants will engage in practical exercises\, case studies\, and collaborative discussions that reflect the evolving demands of supervision in substance use disorder (SUD) settings. We will briefly revisit foundational definitions and historical frameworks\, then shift toward applied strategiesfor structuring effective supervision\, using data to inform clinical growth\, and improving documentation practices through quality improvement methods. This training is designed for supervisors who want to elevate their practice and confidently support counselor development in real-world\, high-stakes environments. \n\n\n\nAgenda: \n\n\n\nMorning | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Understanding clinical supervision in modern context Exploring roles and boundaries of supervisors Core components of supervision structure Common barriers to effective supervisionBreak: 10:30 AM – 10:45 AM Giving and receiving feedback: Creating a feedback culture Practice: Clinical Supervision Scenarios Practice Role-play exercise: Setting structure\, expectation\, and creating a feedback culture \n\n\n\nLunch Break | 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM \n\n\n\nAfternoon Session | 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM Self-care for leaders: building team resilience Using data to guide supervision decisions Interpreting supervision dashboards and trends Coaching through documentation and follow-upBreak: 2:30 PM – 2:45 PM Applying CQI to documentation practices Case scenarios: Real-world supervision dilemmas Personal reflection and supervision action planning Wrap-up/Q&A/Adjourn \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nLearning Objectives: \n\n\n\n\nParticipants will be able describe the foundational purpose of clinical supervision and how its role has evolved within SUD treatment.\n\n\n\nParticipants will be able to apply a structured\, intentional approach to supervision that incorporates documentation\, feedback\, and follow-up.\n\n\n\nParticipants will be able to use data-informed strategies to identify counselor development needs and track growth over time.\n\n\n\nParticipants will be able to implement documentation improvement methods using principles of continual quality improvement.\n\n\n\nParticipants will be able to practice resolving common supervisory dilemmas through guided scenarios and role-play. URL:https://vapavt.org/training/foundations-of-clinical-supervision/ LOCATION:Vermont END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260116T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260116T163000 DTSTAMP:20260406T081541 CREATED:20241022T114658Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260403T100723Z UID:2278-1768554000-1768581000@vapavt.org SUMMARY:Ethics DESCRIPTION:registration deadline 1/9/2026 \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER\n\n\n\n\nVirtual/Zoom \n\n\n\nTrainer: \n\n\n\nHeather Gagnon\, MSW\, LICSW\, LADC\, holds a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Vermont. She has extensive experience in developing and leading trainings across the country\, with a focus on counselor ethics\, group skills and risk reduction programming for criminal offender rehabilitation programs. In addition to her training expertise\, Ms. Gagnon has provided clinical and administrative supervision throughout her career.Her experience includes working with both male and female incarcerated populations\, as well as with offenders on probation. Ms. Gagnon has also served as a school counselor for middle school boys and is currently the Wellness Coordinator at a boarding school for middle school boys. In addition to her work in education\, she continues to provide clinical supervision for a programs that offers risk reduction services and regularlyconducts trainings for corrections programs and Vermont addiction professionals \n\n\n\nDescription: \n\n\n\nThis 6-hour Ethics Training provides professionals with essential tools to navigate ethical challenges in their practice. Through interactive discussions and case studies\, participants will explore key topics such as:● The Professional Code of Ethics and Five Pillars of Ethics● Confidentiality\, 42 CFR\, and HIPAA regulations● The role and risks of self-disclosure in client relationships● Addressing common ethical dilemmasIdeal for professionals looking to enhance ethical decision-making\, this course offers practical insights to uphold integrity in any work setting. \n\n\n\nAgenda: \n\n\n\n9:00 am- Module 1: Introduction to Ethics & Professional Standards (1 hr 15min)● 9:00- 9:15 am: Introduction & Purpose (15 min)– Overview oftraining\, ethics significance\, and historical context.● 9:15- 9:35 am: Professional Code\, Core Principles & CommonDilemmas (20 min)– Key ethical components\, application\, and examplesof dilemmas.● 9:35- 9:55 am: Group Activity: Define Ethics (20 min)– Break intogroups to define ethics and discuss insights.9:55 am- Module 2: NAADACCodeof Ethics & Confidentiality (1 hr 10 min)● 9:55- 10:15 am: Overview of NAADAC Ethics (20 min)– ReviewNAADACethical standards and principles.● 10:15- 10:35 am: Confidentiality: 42 CFR & HIPAA (20 min)– Keyconfidentiality regulations and implications.● 10:35- 10:50 am: Group Activity & Discussion (15 min)– Discussconfidentiality scenarios in groups.10:50- 11:00 am: Break (10 min)11:00 am- Module 3: Boundaries & Self-Disclosure (1 hr 25 min)● 11:00- 11:25 am: Boundaries Overview (25 min)– Defining therapeuticboundaries\, including sexual boundaries\, and analyzing case studies.● 11:25- 11:45 am: Self-Disclosure & Boundaries (20 min)– Definition\,guidelines\, and challenges of self-disclosure.● 11:45 am-12:10 pm: Group Discussion: Boundary Scenarios (25 min)Explore self-disclosure and boundary challenges in small groups.12:10- 1:10 pm: Lunch Break (1 hr)1:10 pm- Module 4: Ethical Decision-Making & Boundary Violations (1 hr 15min)● 1:10- 1:30 pm: Ethical Decision-Making Models (20 min)– Structuredthinking in ethical decisions.● 1:30- 1:55 pm: Boundary Violations (25 min)– Discuss examples\,consequences\, and prevention strategies.● 1:55- 2:25 pm: Group Activity & Q&A (30 min)– Discuss casescenarios and answer questions on boundary violations.2:25- 2:35 pm: Break (10 min)2:35 pm- Module 5: Application & Wrap-Up (1 hr 55 min)● 2:35- 3:05 pm: Applied Ethics & Scenarios (30 min)– Review keyprinciples and apply them to real-world examples.● 3:05- 3:35 pm: Group Reflection & Key Takeaways (30 min)– Smallgroup reflection on training takeaways and insights.● 3:35- 4:00 pm: Summary of Major Concepts (25 min)– Recap of ethics\,confidentiality\, and boundary principles.● 4:00- 4:30 pm: Final Q&A and Reflections (30 min)– Open floor forremaining questions and closing remarks.4:30 pm- End of Training \n\n\n\nLearning Objectives: \n\n\n\nUnderstand the history of ethics and why we practice and follow an ethical code.Review and develop an enhanced awareness around being an ethicalpractitioner.Review and understand changes to 42 CFR part 2 and NAADAC code of ethics.Provide a reminder and guide to ethical decision making during times where a situation may not be clear.Engage in discussion to help develop a deeper understanding of how to make ethical decisionsDiscuss how boundaries and Ethics intersect URL:https://vapavt.org/training/ethics-3/ LOCATION:Vermont END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260318T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260318T163000 DTSTAMP:20260406T081541 CREATED:20251028T184433Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251117T163604Z UID:2750-1773824400-1773851400@vapavt.org SUMMARY:Advocacy Skills for Underserved Communities DESCRIPTION:VIRTUAL \n\n\n\nregistration deadline 3/11/26 \n\n\n\n\nregister\n\n\n\n\nDescription: \n\n\n\nThe updated 2025 NAADAC Code of Ethics states that “addiction professionals advocate on behalf of their clients\,” yet many counselors report uncertainty about when and how to fulfill this responsibility in real-world practice. While counselors regularly encounter patients whose progress is limited by unmet needs and barriers across care systems\, advocacy often feels unclear\, overwhelming\, or outside one’s scope. This training is designed to close that gap by offering a practical\, ethical\, and action-focused approach to advocacy.Participants will learn how to identify key obstacles affecting patient care\, determine appropriate advocacy actions using structured frameworks\, and communicate concerns to decision-makers within and beyond their organizations. The session also emphasizes our ethical obligation to “ensure that all persons\, especially the disadvantaged\, have access to the opportunities\, resources\, and services required to treat andmanage their disorders.” Through guided exercises\, counselors will practice gathering relevant information\, drafting advocacy communications\, and proposing realistic system improvements that strengthen support for patients with unmet needs. \n\n\n\n Trainer: \n\n\n\nSamson Teklemariam\, LPC\, CPTM\, is the Vice President of Clinical Services for Behavioral Health Group (BHG). Samson also serves as the Southeast Regional Vice President for NAADAC\, the Association for Addiction Professionals. He is an accomplished leader with a history of driving organizational results with learning and development solutions. He was formerly the Director of Training and Professional Development for NAADAC and National Director of Learning and Development for Phoenix House Foundation. Samson is a certified lea trainer for the Cognitive Behavioral Interventions for Substance Abuse (CBISA) curriculum\, Calm Every Storm: Crisis Prevention & Intervention curriculum\, and experienced in treating trauma-related disorders using trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TFCBT) and Seeking Safety. \n\n\n\nLearning Objectives: \n\n\n\n\nParticipants will be able to implement ethical principles that guide effective counselor advocacy for patient needs.\n\n\n\nParticipants will be able to apply screening expectations to identify unmet needs that impact patient care.\n\n\n\nParticipants will be able to advance advocacy efforts using the Counselor-Advocate-Scholar framework.\n\n\n\nParticipants will be able to draft concise advocacy communications using data and patient-centered insights.\n\n\n\nParticipants will be able to propose system improvements that strengthen support for patients with unmet needs.\n\n\n\n\nAgenda: \n\n\n\nMorning | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Expanding Our Perspective on Adverse Experiences Introducing the Pair of ACEs Understanding Social Determinants\, Social Drivers\, and Health-Related Social Needs Exercise: Adverse Community Experiences QuestionnaireBreak: 10:30 AM – 10:45 AM Understanding our Ethical Commitment to Advocacy CARF and Joint Commission standards on Community Partnerships and Advocacy Counselor-Advocacy-Scholar (CAS) Model Case Study/Vignette Activity \n\n\n\nLunch Break | 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM \n\n\n\nAfternoon Session | 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM Practical Advocacy Tips from Case Made Exercise: Draft an Advocacy Letter A Simple Model for Counselor Advocacy: ADVOCATE Exercise: Using the ADVOCATE ModelBreak: 2:30 PM – 2:45 PM; Wrap-up: 2:45 PM – 4:30 PM Understanding the Health Impact Pyramid Reviewing the Data on Underserved Communities: Incarcerated/Justice-Involved Wrap-up/Q&A/Adjourn URL:https://vapavt.org/training/advocacy-skills-for-underserved-communities/ LOCATION:Vermont END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260326T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260326T163000 DTSTAMP:20260406T081541 CREATED:20251105T155945Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251105T210206Z UID:2774-1774530000-1774542600@vapavt.org SUMMARY:T-Break (tolerance break from cannabis) DESCRIPTION:registration deadline 3/19/2026 \n\n\n\n\nregister\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTrainer: Tom Fontana \n\n\n\nAlcohol\, Cannabis\, and Other Drugs Initiatives ManagerUniversity of Vermont \n\n\n\nTom Fontana\, LCMHC\, LADC\, (he/him) coordinates drug and alcohol education at the University of Vermont. Tom is author of the ‘T-Break Guide’ a free resource to help people take a tolerance break from cannabis.  He is Principal Investigator of a research study seeking to gauge the effectiveness of cannabis harm reduction resources. \n\n\n\nDescription: \n\n\n\nFrequent cannabis use leads to increased tolerance.  The community of weed smokers has addressed this by encouraging periodic breaks from cannabis to help bring down tolerance.  Called a ‘t-break’\, it is an organic harm reduction technique.  Unfortunately\, without guidance\, people often find a t-break harder than they thought.  The T-Break Guide was written from the wisdom of people who have lived it. There are not many resources for cannabis; come learn about this free one\, and take a deeper dive into cannabis culture and how we can better have these discussions with our clients. \n\n\n\nAgenda: \n\n\n\n1:00  Hello & Welcome \n\n\n\n1:15  Current Cannabis context: how cannabis looks in the world (strains\, types\, paraphernalia) \n\n\n\n1:45  Some plant science: THC\, cannabinoids\, etc. \n\n\n\n2:00  Cannabis & mental health\, with a focus on anxiety \n\n\n\n2:30  (break) \n\n\n\n2:45  DSM criteria\, withdrawal \n\n\n\n3:00  Tolerance Breaks: what are they and why.  Exploration of the T-Break Guide \n\n\n\n3:45  Common themes clients bring up around cannabis use \n\n\n\n4:15  Questions \n\n\n\n4:30  Closing \n\n\n\nLearning Objectives: \n\n\n\nLearning ObjectiveRelated ContentIdentify current cultural context of cannabis\, some plant science\, and explore DSM criteriaHistory to current state\, medicinal and recreational\, DSM Use Disorder and Withdrawal; dive into THC and other cannabinoids  Explain T-Break Guide’s contents and connect with DSM criteria.  Consider cannabis & mental health\, particularly anxietyCultural lens\, Days\, ‘chapters’\, and theme\, feedback\, DSM withdrawal and use disorder connection  Discuss when to use as a resource\, and techniques for engaging clients around their cannabis useStage of change\, self help\, possibility in group use\, intro of cannabis themes in conversations   URL:https://vapavt.org/training/t-break-tolerance-break-from-cannabis/ LOCATION:Delta Marriott\, 1117 Williston Rd\, South Burlington\, Vermont\, 05403\, United States END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260408T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260408T163000 DTSTAMP:20260406T081541 CREATED:20221215T162856Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260216T190501Z UID:1498-1775638800-1775665800@vapavt.org SUMMARY:Neurobiology and Psychopharmacology DESCRIPTION:Delta Marriott | 1117 Williston Rd. South Burlington VT \n\n\n\nregistration deadline 4/1/2026 \n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nTrainer: Heather Stein \n\n\n\nBio: Heather Stein\, MD is a native of West Virginia and grew up in Morgantown where her father still practices family medicine. Dr. Stein moved to Vermont for her family medicine residency at University of Vermont Medical Center where she was introduced to the CHCB community. Dr. Stein’s professional interests include addiction\, women’s health\, adolescent/young adult medicine and care of the underserved\, and comprehensive care for the whole family. She is a candidate for the addiction medicine boards this fall and teaches medical students about substance abuse disorder. She has a wonderful husband whom she met in medical school and who is also a family doctor in the area. She enjoys cooking\, gardening and spending time with her family. \n\n\n\nDescription: This three hour presentation will give an overview of the history\, epidemiology\, risk factors\, and basic physiology of the most common substances of that cause functional impairment and use disorders. Through a case based model with interspersed clinical questions and examples\, we will review the most common presentations of and medications used to treat these conditions. \n\n\n\nAgenda: \n\n\n\n\nMorning: 9:00am -12:15pm\n\n\n\nWelcome & Introductions\n\n\n\nIntroduction to neuropsychology of addiction\n\n\n\nOpioids\n\n\n\nAlcohol and Sedative hypnotics\n\n\n\nStimulants\n\n\n\nDissociatives\n\n\n\nBreak: 10:30 – 10:45 am.\n\n\n\nLunch: 12:15pm – 1:15 pm\n\n\n\nAfternoon: 1:15 pm – 4:30 pm\n\n\n\nPharmacology Addiction Treatment Medications and clinical cases\n\n\n\nMental Health Impact\n\n\n\nOpioids\n\n\n\nAlcohol and Sedative hypnotics\n\n\n\nStimulants\n\n\n\nBreak: 2:30pm-2:45pm\n\n\n\nAdjourn: 4:30 pm\n\n\n\n\nLearning objectives: \n\n\n\n\nReview history\, epidemiology\, risk factors\, and basic physiology of most common substances ofabuse\n\n\n\nReview common presentations and medications used to treat most common substances ofabuse URL:https://vapavt.org/training/psychopharmacology/ LOCATION:Vermont END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260415T073000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260415T163000 DTSTAMP:20260406T081541 CREATED:20260124T130230Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260124T130412Z UID:2873-1776238200-1776270600@vapavt.org SUMMARY:"What you need to know: Comprehensive education to enhance treatment of the LGBTQIA+ communities" DESCRIPTION:registration deadline 4/8/26 \n\n\n\n\nregister\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTRAINER \n\n\n\nFredrick Dombrowski is the AMHCA Past President and has extensive experience treating those living with co-occurring disorders since 1998.  He has been a supervisor and director for multiple programs including inpatient\, outpatient\, and forensic treatment. Currently a Department Chair at the University of Bridgeport\, he is focused on experiential learning through a perspective of cultural humility and an equitable clinical care. He has recently published the book Co-occurring Mental Illness and Substance Use Disorders and has appeared on television\, radio\, and internet advocating for the helping professions. He has won several awards for his work with marginalized populations. \n\n\n\nDESCRIPTION \n\n\n\nDescription: Those from LGBTQIA+ communities are at greater risk for living with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders when compared to heterosexual cisgender communities. Many members from these communities have often experienced discrimination and a lack of support from various treatment providers creating a lack of trust which can impact client success. Even well meaning providers may at times invalidate the experiences of individuals from these communities. This presentation will review specific needs of members of these communities while also discussing potential risks that these communities face. This presentation will identify ways to create an environment of inclusive care while enhancing the skills of team members to support the needs for these communities. This presentation will apply evidence based practices (CBT and MI) in the clinical treatment of LGBTQIA+ communities. Participants will also identify ways to navigate incidents of invalidation for these communities. \n\n\n\nAGENDA \n\n\n\nCheck-in & Coffee: 7:30am – 8:00am \n\n\n\nVAPA Annual Meeting (All are welcome!): 8:00am – 9:00am \n\n\n\nMorning: 9:00 am – Noon Welcome & Introductions Self Evaluations General experiences of LGBTQIA+ clientsBreak 10:30 – 10:45 am. Reviewing specific populations Needs of LG clientsLunch: 12:15 pm to 1:15 pmAfternoon: 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm Reviewing needs of BTQIA+ clients Special needs for intersex and trans clients Creating an inclusive environmentBreak 2:30 – 2:45pm. Supporting Staff CBT Motivational Interviewing \n\n\n\nAdjourn: 4:30 pm \n\n\n\nLEARNING OBJECTIVES \n\n\n\n\nIdentify personal internal reactions toward members of the LGBTQIA+ communities to manage countertransference during treatment.\n\n\n\nIdentify 2-3 specific needs of LGBTQIA+ community members in relation to medical care\, assessment and treatment.\n\n\n\nIdentify 2-3 ways to create an affirming and validating environment for members of the LGBTQIA+ community.\n\n\n\nReview and discuss 3-4 basic clinical tools to explore the needs of LGBTQIA+ community members.\n\n\n\nIdentify 2-3 ways to respond to incidents of invalidation to LGBTQIA+ communities from staff or other patients.  URL:https://vapavt.org/training/what-you-need-to-know-comprehensive-education-to-enhance-treatment-of-the-lgbtqia-communities/ LOCATION:Capitol Plaza\, 100 State St\, Montpelier\, Vermont\, 05602\, United States END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260507T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260507T163000 DTSTAMP:20260406T081541 CREATED:20251028T183524Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251106T180926Z UID:2704-1778144400-1778171400@vapavt.org SUMMARY:Substance Use 101 DESCRIPTION:Registration deadline 4/30/2026 \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTrainer: \n\n\n\nDebby Haskins\, MS\, LADC (Masters of Science-UVM)\, Licensed Alcohol & Drug Abuse Counselor. She began her work at the Dawnland Center in Montpelier- at the time the only Native American Treatment Center in Vermont.  She was a former Student Assistance Counselor who worked in two Central VT High Schools for 10 years\, then served as the Executive Director of the Association of Student Assistance Professionals of Vermont (ASAP of VT) for 15 years\, overseeing 92 programs throughout Vermont. She was a U Matter Suicide Prevention Specialist/trainer/consultant for the Center for Health and Learning in Suicide Prevention; taught three courses online at Union Institute on Alcohol\, Tobacco and Other Drug courses\, Injury\, Violence Prevention\, and Cannabis & Mental Health; and travels throughout Vermont presenting Substance Misuse education to staff\, parents and community members. She recently served as a School-Based Prevention Workforce Facilitator for Prevention Works VT! Debby is again the Executive Director for ASAP of Vermont. \n\n\n\nDebby was the former chair of the Vermont Certification Board and has a private practice in Central Vermont.  She has been in the substance abuse field for 30 years\, from prevention to treatment. She has presented throughout Vermont on Vaping\, Electronic Devices & Artificial Intelligence\, and Cannabis and the connections to healthy mental wellness. Her passion is working with adolescents and their families in breaking the cycle of addiction and presenting information in an experiential and thought-provoking way. \n\n\n\nDescription: \n\n\n\nWelcome to the Substance Misuse Workshop for Beginners\, a supportive and informative space where we embark on a journey towards understanding and addressing the challenges associated with substance misuse. In this workshop\, I aim to create a non-judgmental environment where participants can openly explore the complexities of substance use\, understand our belief systems about addiction\, its impact on individuals and communities\, and the pathways to recovery. Through interactive discussions\, educational resources\, and personal reflections\, attendees will gain valuable insights into the factors contributing to substance misuse and the importance of early intervention. My goal is to empower participants with knowledge and practical tools that can be used with any client while fostering your own personal exploration. \n\n\n\nAgenda: \n\n\n\nMorning: 9:00 am – Noon Welcome & Introductions Engagement & Boundaries Substance Misuse Overview Exercise: Risk Factors-Break 10:30 – 10:45 am. Protective Factors Promoting healthy coping mechanismsLunch: 12:00 pm to 1:00 pmAfternoon: 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm Technology – How Artificial Intelligence is being used. Supervision & how to use it Dealing with Grief\, loss and Suicide: How do you ask the tough questions? Exercise:Break 2:30 – 2:45 pm. Intervention techniques – case studies and discussion Just what is spirituality & why it’s so important in treatment Evaluations & Closure-Adjourn: 4:30 pm \n\n\n\nLearning Objectives: \n\n\n\nObjectives: To understand our bias with addiction\, develop new tools to workwith the substance misusing clients\, practicing techniques that will fosterengagement and help counselors look at hidden strengths that build trust.This interactive workshop will provide hourly skills\, visuals\, time to reflect\,learning how to set boundaries and more. Be prepared to have fun and learnin a very relaxed style.Each hour we will focus on readings\, personal reflection\, movement\, activities\, discussion and group interactions. URL:https://vapavt.org/training/substance-use-101/ LOCATION:Delta Marriott\, 1117 Williston Rd\, South Burlington\, Vermont\, 05403\, United States END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260515T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260515T163000 DTSTAMP:20260406T081541 CREATED:20251105T115153Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251106T114225Z UID:2763-1778835600-1778862600@vapavt.org SUMMARY:Trauma-Informed Co-Occurring Treatment DESCRIPTION:registration deadline 5/8/2026 \n\n\n\n\nregister\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTrainer: \n\n\n\nMelissa Hill\, M.S.\, LCMHC\, LADC\, is a dually licensed clinician with over 13 years of experience in the field of mental health and addictions counseling. She specializes in treating adolescents and adults with co-occurring mental health and substance use challenges and brings a strong focus on community mental health and systems-involved care. \n\n\n\nIn her role with Easterseals\, Melissa serves as a consultant and trainer supporting staff who work with at-risk and foster youth\, families formed through adoption or guardianship\, and those navigating involvement with the Department for Children and Families (DCF). Her work emphasizes trauma-informed and relationship-centered approaches that foster resilience and stability within youth and family systems. \n\n\n\nIn addition to her consulting and training work\, Melissa maintains a private practice in Burlington\, Vermont\, where she provides individual therapy. She is certified in EMDR therapy and integrates a blend of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy\, Narrative Therapy\, Psychodynamic Therapy\, Motivational Interviewing\, Systemic Therapy\, and Expressive Art to support holistic healing and long-term recovery. \n\n\n\nDescription: \n\n\n\nWorking with individuals who experience both mental health and substance use challengesrequires an understanding of the interplay between trauma\, motivation\, and regulation. Atrauma-informed approach to the treatment of co-occurring disorders supports providers inaddressing the complex interactions between trauma\, mental health\, and substance usesymptoms\, while fostering safety\, empowerment\, and collaboration in the therapeuticrelationship. \n\n\n\nAgenda: \n\n\n\nMorning: 9:00am – 12:00pm ESTSection 1: Understanding the Complexity of Co-Occurring Disorders (9:00 – 10:30am)● Welcome\, introductions\, and overview of the day● Defining co-occurring disorders and understanding prevalence and impact● Exploring trauma\, diagnostic overlap\, shared neurobiology\, and developmental effects● Applying trauma-informed principles: Safety\, Trustworthiness\, Choice\, Collaboration\,Empowerment● Cultural humility and intersectionality in trauma and addiction \n\n\n\nBreak: 10:30am – 10:45amSection 2: Increasing Motivation and Internal Awareness (10:45am – 12:00pm)● Trauma’s impact on motivation\, ambivalence\, and readiness for change● Overview of Motivational Interviewing (Engaging\, Focusing\, Evoking\, Planning) througha trauma-informed lens● Deepening insight and commitment through reflective listening and change talk \n\n\n\n● Value exploration \n\n\n\nLunch: 12:00pm – 1:00pmAfternoon: 1:00pm – 4:30pm ESTSection 3: Somatic and Experiential Regulation Techniques for Co-Occurring Disorders(1:00 – 2:30pm)● Understanding how trauma and co-occurring disorders affect the nervous system● “Regulation before reflection”: stabilizing the body before processing emotion● Recognizing body cues and interoception as early signs of dysregulation● Core somatic techniques:● Integrating somatic regulation with motivational and values-based approaches \n\n\n\nBreak: 2:30pm – 2:45pmSection 4: Our Own Experience — Vicarious Trauma\, Resilience\, and Self-Care (2:45 –4:30pm)● Understanding vicarious trauma: mirror neurons\, empathy fatigue\, and moral distress● Differentiating burnout\, compassion fatigue\, and vicarious trauma● Exploring vicarious resilience and the reciprocal nature of healing● Identifying strengths\, meaning\, and purpose● Developing a personal self-care plan \n\n\n\nLearning Objectives: \n\n\n\nThis full-day training will provide participants with:● Strategies to integrate trauma-informed principles into co-occurring treatment● An understanding of how trauma affects motivation\, readiness for change\, andregulation● Techniques to support body-based stabilization and values-aligned behavioral change● Opportunities to practice somatic and experiential regulation techniques● Exploration of vicarious trauma\, resilience\, and clinician self-care● Case examples\, experiential activities\, and reflective discussions to promote practicalapplication URL:https://vapavt.org/training/trauma-informed-co-occurring-treatment/ LOCATION:The Summit\, 19 Roosevelt Highway\, Colchester\, Vermont\, 05446\, United States END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260904T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260904T163000 DTSTAMP:20260406T081541 CREATED:20260223T193010Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260223T193011Z UID:2894-1788512400-1788539400@vapavt.org SUMMARY:Codependency 101 DESCRIPTION:register\n\n\n\n\nregistration deadline 8/28/2026 \n\n\n\n\n\nNOTES: \n\n\n\n\nParking OFFSITE ONLY: Suggestion – Rutland Laz Parking Garage $3 for all day parking and .1 mile from the ASA Bloomer Building \n\n\n\nAll attendees will need to check in with security on the first floor of the building. Conf. room 266 \n\n\n\nThe building closes at 4:30 p.m. the training will end timely\, so all attendees can exit the building. \n\n\n\n\nTRAINER: \n\n\n\nEshan E. LaCoste is a Licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselor (LADC) for the State of Vermont and has served as a Clinical Supervisor at Rutland Community Care Network for the past 3 years. He is a highly accomplished and compassionate master’s level clinician with over 20 years of progressive experience in clinical mental health and substance use disorder treatment\, including work with co-occurring disorders and forensic populations. A proven leader in program supervision\, compliance\, team management\, and the implementation of evidence-based interventions within mental health\, Intensive Outpatient (IOP)\, and community-based settings. His expertise includes integrating mental health and substance use services\, program development\, grant writing\, and professional education. \n\n\n\nDESCRIPTION: \n\n\n\nWithin the mental health world\, codependency is a theory that attempts to explain imbalanced relationships where one person or both individuals enable each other’s person’s self-destructive behavior’s\, such as addiction\, poor mental health\, immaturity\, irresponsibility\, or under-achievement. Definitions of codependency vary\, but typically include high self-sacrifice\, a focus on others’ needs\, suppression of one’s own emotions\, and attempts to control or fix other people’s problems. Some individuals who struggle with codependency characteristics on average exhibit low self-esteem\, but it is unclear whether this is a cause or an effect of characteristics associatedwith codependency. Codependency is not limited to married partnered\, or romantic relationships\, as co-workers\, friends\, and family members can be codependent as well. \n\n\n\nAGENDA: \n\n\n\nMorning: The Head & The Heart (09:00 AM – 12:00 PM)9:00 AM | Welcome & The Perimeter: Establishing psychological safety.o Somatic: The Boundary Bubble. Standing and rotating to physically define 360-degree personal space. \n\n\n\n9:30 AM | The Inventory: A 30-point diagnostic to identify patterns of external obsession.o Somatic: The Internal Anchor. Hand-on-heart/hand-on-belly breathing to pull energy back to the self. \n\n\n\n10:00 AM | Defining the Self: Differentiating the “Helper” (Healthy) from the “Enabler” (Codependent).o Clinical Context: Rationale for involving families and the metrics of treatment gains.10:30 AM | Break10:45 AM | Family Dynamics (The Heart): Mapping “Family Tree” roles (Hero\, Scapegoat\, etc.).11:15 AM | Inner Child & Transference: Discussing the “Savior” complex and childhood voids.o Local Focus: Identifying catalysts and barriers to family involvement specifically in Vermont. \n\n\n\n11:45 AM | Grounding II: Discharging heavy emotions from the family mapping.o Somatic: The Burden Drop. Tensing shoulders/fists and “throwing” the tension to the floor with a loud exhale. \n\n\n\nLunch: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PMAfternoon: The Hands (01:00 PM – 04:30 PM)1:00 PM | Research-Based Engagement: Strategies for engaging family members effectively.2:00 PM | The “Yard” Framework: Understanding boundaries as gates\, not walls.3:00 PM | Break3:15 PM | The “Free” Strategy: Mastering the core clinical tool. \n\n\n\n\nIdentify: Notice the “itch” to fix (Mental) and throat tightness (Somatic).\n\n\n\nDetach: Stepping back. Somatic cue: Taking one physical step backward.\n\n\n\nDecide: Choosing a response based on capacity\, not compulsion.4:00 PM | Closing Circle: Commitment to one “Small Boundary” for the week.4:30 PM | Adjourn\n\n\n\n\nLEARNING OBJECTIVES: \n\n\n\n Map Codependent Cycles: Identify “over-reactions” (external fixing) vs. “under-reactions”(internal denial). Trace Behavioral Roots: Connect “savior” compulsions to childhood unmet needs. Apply Detachment Tools: Utilize the Identify\, Detach\, and Decide framework. Regulate via Somatics: Use body-based movements to manage the “Fawn” response. URL:https://vapavt.org/training/codependency-101/ LOCATION:ASA Bloomer Building\, 88 Merchants Row\, Rutland\, Vermont END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260916T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260916T163000 DTSTAMP:20260406T081541 CREATED:20241023T104609Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260223T193404Z UID:2282-1789549200-1789576200@vapavt.org SUMMARY:Supervision of Supervisors DESCRIPTION:Registration deadline 9/9/2026 \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER\n\n\n\n\nVirtual/Zoom \n\n\n\nTrainer: \n\n\n\nSamson Teklemariam\, LPC\, CPTM\, is the Vice President of Clinical Services for Behavioral Health Group (BHG). Samson also serves as the Southeast Regional Vice President for NAADAC\, the Association for Addiction Professionals. He is an accomplished leader with a history of driving organizational results with learning and development solutions. He was formerly the Director of Training and Professional Development for NAADAC and National Director of Learning and Development for Phoenix House Foundation. Samson is a certified lead trainer for the Cognitive Behavioral Interventions for Substance Abuse (CBISA) curriculum\, Calm Every Storm: Crisis Prevention & Intervention curriculum\, and experienced in the treatment of trauma-related disorders using trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TFCBT) and Seeking Safety. He is passionate about culturally responsive care for co-occurring conditions\, clinical supervision and mentorship\, improving access to care\, and advocacy for communities in greatest need. \n\n\n\nDescription: \n\n\n\ncoming soon \n\n\n\nAgenda: \n\n\n\ncoming soon \n\n\n\nLearning Objectives: \n\n\n\ncoming soon URL:https://vapavt.org/training/understanding-employee-burnout-and-the-ethics-of-self-care/ LOCATION:Vermont END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261002T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261002T163000 DTSTAMP:20260406T081541 CREATED:20250415T193610Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260223T193544Z UID:2529-1790931600-1790958600@vapavt.org SUMMARY:Ethics DESCRIPTION:registration deadline: 9/25/2026 \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER\n\n\n\n\nTrainer: \n\n\n\nDana Poverman\, LCMHC\, LADC: Ms. Poverman has worked in the fields of mental health and substance use disorders for over 30 years. She has provided treatment to clients; created and directed clinical programs\, including treatment courts\, student assistance services and co-occurring treatment; and provided clinical supervision and training throughout her career. Her experience with MAT began in 2002 with the opening of the Chittenden Clinic\, a program of Howard Center\, Vermont’s first OTP.  Prior to Vermont’s implementation of the hub and spoke system\, she managed the ADAP-funded state-wide grant for the COBMAT project (Coordination of Office-Based Medication-Assisted Treatment) beginning in 2005. She worked with providers in Chittenden and Franklin Counties to expand OBOT services. Dana was the director of the Chittenden Clinic until July 2021. She currently provides training and LADC supervision for clinicians at Howard Center and Central Vermont Addiction Medicine. She serves as an Advisor to the Office of Professional Regulation for Alcohol and Drug Counselors. Her clinical interest lies in the intersectionality of trauma\, social injustice\, and substance use disorders and other addictive behaviors. \n\n\n\nDescription: \n\n\n\nThis six-hour training will review the nine principles of the NAADAC Code of Ethics in detail. The foundation for these standards in the underlying principles of autonomy\, non-maleficence\, beneficence\, and distributive justice will be examined. The format will include didactic presentation\, group discussion and activities. Examples will be drawn from real-life cases to illustrate situations that pose risk and ethical dilemmas for those working in the field of substance use disorder prevention\, intervention and treatment. Emphasis will be placed on understanding professional boundaries\, boundary extensions and boundary violations. Participants will also explore models for resolving ethical dilemmas. \n\n\n\nAgenda: \n\n\n\n9:00 – 10:30What are Ethics?Guiding principlesNAADAC Code 6/1/25Break 10:30 – 10:4010:40 – 12:10What is an ethical dilemma and how to resolve it\, including model for resolving ethical dilemmasBeginning the Relationship (including mandatory disclosures)Informed ConsentTelehealthConfidentiality – HIPAA and 42 CFRArtificial Intelligence – considerations for ethical practiceDocumentation \n\n\n\nLunch 12:10 – 1:10 \n\n\n\n1:10– 2:40Boundary extensions vs Boundary Violations – case examples and practiceProfessional Responsibility and Client Care – Ethical terminationCounter-transferenceCultural Awareness and Humility2:40 – 3:00 Break3: 00 – 4:30Case examples of Professional MisconductDual Relationships – Slippery SlopesMeta-ethical issues – implications for policy \n\n\n\nLearning Objectives: \n\n\n\na. Participants will be able to identify the principles of the NAADAC Code of Ethicsb. Participants will be able to identify the underlying ethical principles that are the bedrock of the professional codesc. Participants will be able to describe when informed consent must be obtained and the 4 elements needed to obtain informed consentd. Participants will be able to explain how culture\, race and socio-economic factors can affect the therapeutic relationshipe. Participants will be able to describe the difference between boundary violations and boundary extensionsf. Participants will be able to identify at least common areas for violations of ethics codesg. Participants will be able to define an ethical dilemmah. Participants will be able to identify steps to take in resolving an ethical dilemma URL:https://vapavt.org/training/ethics-4/ LOCATION:Delta Marriott\, 1117 Williston Rd\, South Burlington\, Vermont\, 05403\, United States END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261106T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261106T163000 DTSTAMP:20260406T081541 CREATED:20260223T193658Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260223T193700Z UID:2901-1793955600-1793982600@vapavt.org SUMMARY:Crashing Out-Using Third Wave CBT's in the Treatment of Mood and Substance Use Disorders in Adolescents and Young Adults DESCRIPTION:register\n\n\n\n\nregistration deadline 10/30/2026 \n\n\n\n\n\nTRAINER: \n\n\n\nBill Brown is an owner and Clinical Director at Confluence Behavioral Health in Thetford\, VT and Burlington\, VT.  He has worked with young adults\, adolescents and their families for over twenty years in clinical and coaching capacities. As a leader\, Bill is driven to nurture the enthusiasm and focus of his staff to consistently accomplish shared goals\, creating a culture of engagement and purpose. His work focuses on building strong teams that bring quality services and transformational experiences to the clients and families we serve. As a clinician\, Bill works at the intersection of a relational and behavioral approach\, finding avenues toward change through skills\, trust\, and a shared commitment to growth. \n\n\n\nDESCRIPTION: \n\n\n\nThis presentation explores the role of skills in fostering effective relational dynamics within mental health treatment. Often perceived as tools for symptom management or behavioral change\, skills\, in a relational context\, emerge as both the observable surface and the profound substance of therapeutic connection. \n\n\n\nSkill development is not simply a mechanistic intervention\, but rather a deeply relational process. On the surface\, skills provide concrete strategies for clients to navigate distress\, improve communication\, and regulate emotions. These techniques offer a common language and a shared focus\, facilitating initial engagement and building a sense of collaborative effort between client and therapist. \n\n\n\nHowever\, the substance of skills lies in their capacity to strengthen the therapeutic relationship. Exploring skills involves empathy\, validation\, and a shared commitment to growth. Through this process\, clients learn not only what to do\, but also how to relate\, how to trust\, and how to co-create solutions within a supportive interpersonal context. The therapist’s ability to skillfully deliver interventions\, adapt to client needs\, and maintain a non-judgmental stance becomes a living demonstration of relational principles. \n\n\n\nThis presentation will explore how seemingly technical skills are imbued with relational meaning. We will discuss how the development of skills can enhance self-efficacy\, foster secure attachment\, and ultimately empower clients to build healthier relationships beyond the therapeutic setting. Focus will be placed on treating mood and substance use disorders as well as tech overuse. By recognizing skills as both the outward manifestation and the internal scaffolding of relational healing\, clinicians can deepen their practice and optimize treatment outcomes. \n\n\n\nAGENDA: \n\n\n\n9:00 am – 10:30 am \n\n\n\n\nWelcome & Introductions \n\n\n\nOverview of Training \n\n\n\nGen Z – Cultural and Developmental Factors \n\n\n\nThe Mental Health Crisis in Young People \n\n\n\nExercise: Exploring Generations – Cultural Impact on Mental Health \n\n\n\n\nBreak 10:30 am – 10:45 am. \n\n\n\n10:45 am – 12:00 pm \n\n\n\n\nRelational and Behavioral Approaches: Undoing the Dichotomy \n\n\n\nOverview of 3rd Wave CBTs \n\n\n\nExercise: Process-oriented CBT \n\n\n\n\nLunch: 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm \n\n\n\nAfternoon: 1:00 pm to 2:30 pm \n\n\n\n\nPostformal Thinking: Developing Adult Cognition through 3rd Wave CBTs \n\n\n\nExploring Trauma: Gen Z and the impact of adversity \n\n\n\nExercise: Thinking Postformally \n\n\n\n\nBreak 2:30 pm– 2:45 pm \n\n\n\n2:45 pm – 4:20 pm \n\n\n\n\nUsing 3rd Wave CBTs to address Gen Z Challenges \n\n\n\nThe Search for Meaning \n\n\n\nDeveloping a Sense of Mattering \n\n\n\nBuilding Connection \n\n\n\n\nAdjourn: 4:30 pm \n\n\n\nLEARNING OBJECTIVES: \n\n\n\nParticipants in this presentation will be able to:  \n\n\n\nArticulate the dual nature of skills in mental health treatment\, distinguishing between their “surface” function (symptom management\, behavioral change) and their “substance” (embodying and strengthening the therapeutic relationship). \n\n\n\nIdentify how the therapeutic process of teaching and practicing skills inherently involves and reinforces relational principles such as empathy\, validation\, boundaries\, and collaborative problem-solving. \n\n\n\nExplain the broader impact of skill development on client well-being\, including enhanced self-efficacy\, secure attachment\, and the ability to form healthier relationships outside of therapy. URL:https://vapavt.org/training/crashing-out-using-third-wave-cbts-in-the-treatment-of-mood-and-substance-use-disorders-in-adolescents-and-young-adults/ LOCATION:Hotel Coolidge\, 39 S Main St\, White River Junction\, Vermont END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261204T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261204T163000 DTSTAMP:20260406T081541 CREATED:20250605T181729Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260223T193806Z UID:2591-1796374800-1796401800@vapavt.org SUMMARY:Cultural Competency DESCRIPTION:Registration deadline: 11/27/2026 \n\n\n\n\nREGISTER\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTrainer: \n\n\n\nKarinne Comenzo\, MA\, LICSW\, LADC is the former Assistant Director of Clinical Services for the River Valley Therapeutic Residence. Prior to this role\, Karinne worked for the Vermont Department of Corrections as Chief Clinical Specialist for five years. Karinne currently runs a private practice and supports UVMMC Primary Care providers who prescribe medications for Opiate Use Disorder. The majority of her human services career was providing mental health and substance abuse treatment services to marginalized populations in New York City. This included individuals experiencing homelessness\, incarceration\, sex trafficking\, and domestic violences\, among others. Karinne holds an MA in Forensic Psychology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice and an MSW from New York University. When Karinne is not focused on helping others in her work\, you can find her engaged in hot exercise classes\, dance class with her two young kiddos\, or throwing a ball for her Australian Cattle Dog.  \n\n\n\nDescription: \n\n\n\nThis training will address the core concepts of Cultural Competency\, also referred to as Cultural Humilityor Cultural Sensitivity. This training is created to challenge your assumptions and take each participantout of their comfort zone. This training is meant to challenge each individual’s belief systems andperceptions of their work and clients. This training may be uncomfortable and triggering at times\, andparticipants are asked to be respectful of one another while navigating difficult conversations. The mainpurpose of this training is to enhance overall service delivery to each client. \n\n\n\nAgenda: \n\n\n\nMorning: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm Welcome and Introductions What is culture? What is cultural competency? Underlying principlesBreak 10:30 – 10:45 am Review of applicable Code of Ethics Challenging perceptionsLunch: 12:00 pm to 1:00 pmAfternoon:  1:00 pm to 4:30 pm Challenging perceptions (cont.) and assumptions Self awareness as practitioners Applying Cultural Competency concepts to service deliveryBreak 2:30 – 2:45pm Programmatic considerations Cultural Competency \n\n\n\nLearning Objectives: \n\n\n\n\nDefine culture\n\n\n\nIdentify three ways our own culture impacts our work\n\n\n\n​Identify three ways Cultural Competency can improve service delivery and client experience\n\n\n\nIdentify three general skills and strategies for culturally sensitive service delivery\n\n\n\nDefine the Intention Impact Model URL:https://vapavt.org/training/cultural-compentency/ LOCATION:Delta Marriott\, 1117 Williston Rd\, South Burlington\, Vermont\, 05403\, United States END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR