Agenda
Three days of insightful sessions, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities.
September 26, 2024 Keynotes and Sessions
Opening Remarks
Good Morning and Welcome to day 2 of the 2025 Mississippi Trauma Informed Care Conference!
Speaker
Jackie Chatmon
Conference Coordinator
Prestige Professional Development and Consulting, LLC
Ingrid Cloy, NAMI Consultant
Matthew Vasquez, Ph.D., LMSW
This presentation presents the latest scientific insights into the neurobiological and physiological adaptations occurring in individuals exposed to long-term abuse and trauma. We will delve into the intricate ways trauma impacts the mind, brain, and body, shaping responses and behaviors. The session will specifically address the unique challenges faced by populations such as those struggling with addiction and substance abuse, survivors of domestic violence, and individuals impacted by human trafficking. Furthermore, participants will engage in a comprehensive discussion of evidence-based best practices for effectively supporting and intervening with these vulnerable groups. This presentation aims to equip professionals with enhanced understanding and practical strategies to improve care for trauma-affected individuals.
Learning Objectives:
Objective 1. After completion of the session, participants will be able to describe the neurobiological and physiological adaptations that occur in individuals exposed to long-term abuse and trauma.
Objective 2. After completion of the session, participants will be able to identify the specific challenges faced by populations such as those with addiction/substance abuse problems, survivors of domestic violence, and individuals impacted by human trafficking, in the context of trauma.
Objective 3. After completion of the session, participants will be able to apply evidence-based best practices for effectively supporting and intervening with trauma-affected population.
CEUs:
SW
LPC/NCC
LMFT
NHA
CRC
MAAP
DMH-CMHT
DMH-CPSS
DMH-CSS
DMH-CAT
EDU
Transition to Breakout Sessions
Frances Baker, Ph.D., LCSW
A female with a substance use disorder is perceived differently than a male. The story of drugs as used as a treatment is varied and often confusing. Research on the effects of drug use on women has only recently begun to be treated as a significant issue in recent years.
Learning Objectives:
Objective 1. After completion of the session, participants will be able to discuss the history of use of various drugs for treating medical and emotional issues.
Objective 2. After completion of the session, participants will be able to explain the differences in reactions to males and females who have substance use disorders.
Objective 3. After completion of the session, participants will be able to discuss the research findings as they relate to women, addiction, and trauma.
CEUs:
SW - CD
LPC/NCC
LMFT
NHA
CRC - Addiction
MAAP
DMH-CMHT
DMH-CPSS
DMH-CSS
DMH-CAT
EDU
Emily D. Hendricks, M.S., P-LPC
This presentation explores the application of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to improve men's mental health and wellbeing within the context of their relationships. EFT, a structured therapeutic approach, emphasizes the role of emotional attachment in fostering secure, supportive connections.
The presentation highlights how men, often socialized to suppress emotions, can benefit from learning to express vulnerability and connect with their partners on a deeper emotional level. By examining case studies and research, it demonstrates how EFT helps men navigate emotional challenges, reduce relationship distress, and improve overall mental health.
The presentation will also address common barriers men face in therapy, such as societal expectations and stigma, and discuss how EFT provides a safe, non-judgmental space for emotional expression. Attendees will gain insights into integral EFT techniques into their practice to support men in enhancing their emotional well-being and building stronger, more fulfilling relationships.
Learning Objectives:
Objective 1. After completion of the session, participants will be able to understand the impact of culture on men's emotional expression and mental health.
Objective 2. After completion of the session, participants will be able to apply Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) techniques.
Objective 3. After completion of the session, participants will be able to create a supportive and non-judgmental therapeutic environment.
CEUs:
SW - CD
LPC/NCC
LMFT
NHA
MAAP
DMH-CMHT
DMH-CPSS
DMH-CSS
DMH-CAT
EDU
Jessica Henry, CPhT, MPH
This powerful and informative presentation is designed to shed light on the often-overlooked patterns that continue abuse within our communities. This session will explore the diverse types of abuse, emotional, physical, psychological, financial, and more while breaking down the recurring cycles that keep individuals and families trapped in harmful dynamics. Drawing from years of experience in healthcare, community engagement, and behavioral health, this presentation offers both a clinical and compassionate lens on trauma. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how abuse manifests, why it persists, and most importantly, how we as a community can intervene, support healing, and advocate for healthier, safer environments. Through education, awareness, and practical strategies, this presentation aims to inspire breakthrough moments that lead to real, lasting change in our communities.
Learning Objectives:
Objective 1. After completion of the session, participants will be able to identify and differentiate types of Abuse.
Objective 2. After completion of the session, participants will be able to recognize the cycles of abuse.
Objective 3. After completion of the session, participants will be able to apply Trauma-Informed strategies for intervention and healing.
CEUs:
SW
LMFT
NHA
MAAP
DMH-CMHT
DMH-CPSS
DMH-CSS
DMH-CAT
EDU
Melody Worsham, B.A., CPSS
Many people deal with past trauma by using substances, contemplating suicide, or engaging in self-harm. This presentation shows that Trauma-Informed Care aligns with Harm Reduction. Both play a vital role in helping people not just feel safe but be safe and empower them to take charge of their own recovery and reducing the stigma of getting help.
Learning Objectives:
Objective 1. After completion of the session, participants will be able to define harm reduction and trauma informed principles.
Objective 2. After completion of the session, participants will be able to describe the Multiple Pathways to Recovery.
Objective 3. After completion of the session, participants will be able to discuss stigma as a barrier to access certain pathways to recovery.
CEUs:
SW
LMFT
CRC
MAAP
DMH-CMHT
DMH-CPSS
DMH-CSS
DMH-CAT
EDU
Enjoy your lunch!
Rachel Daniels, LCSW
For many professionals, ethical practice is a standard we strive for. In our educational programs, we learn about our profession's values, ethical codes, and are introduced to ethical decision-making processes. After graduation, many of us have ongoing requirements to maintain training in ethics. This presentation will bring us back to our basics of "why" it is important to practice ethically. Inspiring a recommitment to ethical practice.
Learning Objectives:
Objective 1. After completion of the session, participants will be able to identify one historical fact that led to the development of ethical codes.
Objective 2. After completion of the session, participants will be able to define 3 ways to improve our ability to meet our professional needs that lead to ethical behavior.
Objective 3. After completion of the session, participants will be able to recommit to ethical practice in the Social Work Field.
CEUs:
SW - Ethics
LMFT
NHA
MAAP
DMH-CMHT
DMH-CSS
DMH-CAT
EDU
Natasha Griffin, LPC
While foundational ethics training equips counselors with essential principles, real-world ethical dilemmas are becoming increasingly complex, dynamic, and unaddressed by traditional frameworks. This 2-hour session explores current and emerging ethical issues confronting Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), including evolving technology in practice, complex cultural intersections, and ambiguous boundaries in integrated or digital care models. The presentation blends discussion, case analysis, and ethical decision-making models to help clinicians critically examine and respond to dilemmas that arise beyond the textbook. Participants will strengthen their capacity to navigate ethical gray zones with cultural sensitivity, legal awareness, and clinical soundness.
Learning Objectives:
Objective 1. After completion of the session, participants will be able to assess the ethical implications of evolving technologies (teletherapy, AI, digital communication) on confidentiality, boundaries, and competence.
Objective 2. After completion of the session, participants will be able to evaluate the impact of cultural complexity and intersectionality on ethical decision-making, especially in diverse and marginalized client populations.
Objective 3. After completion of the session, participants will be able to apply ethical decision-making models to navigate ambiguous boundaries and dual relationships, especially in online, rural, and integrated care settings.
CEUs:
LPC/NCC -
Ethics
LMFT
CRC - Ethics
MAAP
DMH-CMHT
DMH-CAT
EDU
Shalonda Carlisle, Ph.D., LCSW
Imposter Syndrome affects millions of individuals every day and the effects can create chaos, uncertainty, not living to full potential and decline in mental health. This session will discuss and define imposter statistics, stats related to the syndrome, causes, how to identify and strategies to overcome it.
Learning Objectives:
Objective 1. After completion of the session, participants will be able to identify Imposter Syndrome, with signs and symptoms.
Objective 2. After completion of the session, participants will be able to identify related stats related to syndrome and cause.
Objective 3. After completion of the session, participants will be able to identify interventions and strategies for individuals to overcome imposter syndrome.
CEUs:
SW
LPC/NCC
LMFT
NHA
MAAP
DMH-CMHT
DMH-CPSS
DMH-CSS
DMH-CAT
EDU
Paula Granger, B.S.
What if we had been taught what a healthy relationship looks like? What if we had learned not only what to expect from a partner, but how to show up in healthy ways? This session will explore the elements of healthy and unhealthy relationships and will examine some of the less obvious types of domestic violence. We will also consider why people stay in unhealthy relationships.
Learning Objectives:
Objective 1. After completion of the session, participants will be able to define domestic violence and identify types of domestic violence.
Objective 2. After completion of the session, participants will be able to explain the differences and similarities between unhealthy and healthy relationships.
Objective 3. After completion of the session, participants will be able to explore why people stay in unhealthy relationships, how to extricate oneself from an unhealthy relationship and how to support a person in an unhealthy relationship.
CEUs:
LMFT
MAAP
DMH-CMHT
DMH-CPSS
DMH-CSS
DMH-CAT
EDU
Transition to keynote.
Avery Brewton, LCSW, RCP
The presenter explores the R3 Model—ritual, recovery, and relational leadership—as a pathway through uncertainty. Through reflection, storytelling, and a creative “Ritual Remix” activity, we’ll name what we carry and practice how to return to ourselves. Participants will leave with a Rooted
and Ready Roadmap and a ritual to bring back to their individuals and teams.
Learning Objectives:
Objective 1. After completion of the session, participants will be able to identify common survival patterns in leadership roles and explore their impact on individuals and teams.
Objective 2. After completion of the session, participants will be able to reflect on their leadership and identify sustainable strategies for regulation, boundaries, and relational attunement in high stress environments.
Objective 3. After completion of the session, participants will be able to co-create a simple team ritual in response to common stressors or disconnect.
CEUs:
SW - CD
LMFT
CRC
MAAP
DMH-CMHT
DMH-CPSS
DMH-CSS
DMH-CAT
EDU