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Agenda7:30 – 8:30 a.m.

Registration, Networking, and Exhibit Expo

8:30 – 8:45 a.m.Welcome and program overview

barnes & noble college AuditoriumCraig D. Schmidt, Vice President, Community and Economic Development

Prairie State College

8:45 – 9:15 a.m.general session

“Trauma and the Brain”Ashley Kuhl Piwowarski, Psy. D.

9:15 – 9:30 a.m.remarks

Illinois Senator Michael E. Hastings19th Legislative District

9:30 – 10:15 a.m.keynote address

“From Washington to Chicago Heights: Roots, Effects, and Solutions for the Criminalization of Mental Illness”

Thomas J. Dart, Cook County Sheriff

10:15 – 10:30 a.m.Break

10:30 – 11:30 a.m. concurrent Breakout sessions

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11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Lunch and Exhibit Expo

Atrium

1 – 2 p.m.concurrent Breakout Sessions

2 – 2:15 p.m.Break

2:15 – 3:15 p.m.concurrent breakout sessions

3:15 – 3:30 p.m.Break

3:30 – 4:30 p.m. panel discussion

Journey 2: Supporting My family memberbarnes & noble college auditorium

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Concurrent Breakout Sessions 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Understanding Mental Illness and Homelessness Room A109Mary E. Garrison, LCSW, ACSW, Associate Professor of Social Work, Millikin UniversityGain an understanding of mental illness and homelessness, awareness of treatment challenges and successes, and knowledge regarding mental health system’s response for this vulnerable population.

Transgender Health and Wellness: Providing Quality, Informed, Compassionate Care Room A131Erica Essary, Psy.D., LPC, QMHP, Sertoma Centre, Inc.This presentation seeks to provide knowledge about the transgender community and their unique needs, as well as ways clinicians can deliver quality, informed, compassionate care.

Working with Soldiers and Veterans: Getting Them to Talk About Their Pain Room A122Richard Doss, Ph.D., LCP, Strong Minds Institute Clinicians will learn strategies for breaking down rapport barriers of veterans who may be guarded, defensive, or untrusting. Review the types of disorders commonly seen at the Vet Center Readjustment Counseling Center.

In Our Own Voice Room A132Lisa Guardiola and Nickolas Sundberg, NAMI South Suburbs of ChicagoHear first-hand accounts from those recovering from a brain disorder and learn from their personal experiences.

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Breakout Sessions Continued - 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Generations of Care for Families Caring for a LovedOne with Dementia Room 1315Cathy Braxton and Tami Neumann, Silver Dawn Senior Friendly CitiesExperience hands on dementia-focused sensitivity training resulting in enhanced empathy for a loved one with this condition.

Mind, Body, Spirit Connection: Following theYellow-Brick-Road Room 1322Colleen Caron, MS, RN, AMITA Alexian Behavioral HealthCognitive behavioral therapy, relaxation techniques, and laughter yoga exercises are presented as methodologies to increase the mind-body-spirit connection.

Recovery Enhanced by Employment Room 1318/1320Tania Morawiec, M.Ed., and Darius McKinney, Illinois Division of Mental HealthLearn the practice principles of Individualized Placement and Supports (IPS) which integrate the clinical mental health team and vocational rehabilitation services in the treatment of mental illness.

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Concurrent Breakout Sessions 1 - 2 p.m.

Understanding Mental Illness and Homelessness Room A109Mary E. Garrison, LCSW, ACSW, Associate Professor of Social Work, Millikin UniversityGain an understanding of mental illness and homelessness, awareness of treatment challenges and successes, and knowledge regarding mental health system’s response for this vulnerable population.

Transgender Health and Wellness: Providing Quality, Informed, Compassionate Care Room A131Erica Essary, Psy.D., LPC, QMHP, Sertoma Centre, Inc.This presentation seeks to provide knowledge about the transgender community and their unique needs, as well as ways clinicians can deliver quality, informed, compassionate care.

Working with Soldiers and Veterans: Getting Them to Talk About Their Pain Room A122Richard Doss, Ph.D., LCP, Strong Minds Institute Clinicians will learn strategies for breaking down rapport barriers of veterans who may be guarded, defensive, or untrusting. Review the types of disorders commonly seen at the Vet Center Readjustment Counseling Center.

In Our Own Voice Room A132Lisa Guardiola and Nickolas Sundberg, NAMI South SuburbsHear first-hand accounts from those recovering from a brain disorder and learn from their personal experiences.

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Breakout Sessions Continued - 1-2 p.m.

Empowering the African American Client:Demystifying Mental Health Room 1322Angela Jackson, Ph.D., Culturally Competent ConsultingExplore the counseling implications needed for effective treatment with African Americans. Increase awareness of cultural biases, assumptions and values of African American clients.

Adult A.D.D. and A.D.H.D. Room 1318/1320Del Larkin, LCSW, CAADC, Salvation Army, Harbor Light CenterReview the symptoms of Attention Deficit Disorder (A.D.D.) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (A.D.H.D.) in adults and their misdiagnosis. Explore the impact of these on a person’s activities of daily life.

Foundations for Mental Health: Social and Emotional Learning in Schools Room 1315M. Bill Hellyer, MS, OTR/L, Kildeer Countryside School District 96Illinois was the first state to establish statewide, free-standing social and emotional learning standards. Learn the standards and their potential impact within the school system.

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Concurrent Breakout Sessions 2:15 - 3:15 p.m.

Generations of Care for Families Caring for a Loved One With Dementia Room A109Cathy Braxton and Tami Neumann, Silver Dawn Senior Friendly CitiesExperience hands on dementia-focused sensitivity training resulting in enhanced empathy for a loved one with this condition.

Mind, Body, Spirit Connection: Following the Yellow-Brick-Road Room A122Colleen Caron, MS, RN, AMITA Alexian Behavioral HealthCognitive behavioral therapy, relaxation techniques, and laughter yoga exercises are presented as methodologies to increase the mind-body-spirit connection.

Recovery Enhanced by Employment Room A132Tania Morawiec, M. Ed, and Darius McKinney, MHP, Illinois Division of Mental HealthLearn the practice principles of Individualized Placement and Supports (IPS) which integrate the clinical mental health team and vocational rehabilitation services in the treatment of mental illness.

Empowering the African American Client:Demystifying Mental Health Room 1322Angela Jackson, Ph.D., Culturally Competent ConsultingExplore the counseling implications needed for effective treatment with African Americans. Increase awareness of cultural biases, assumptions and values of African American clients.

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Breakout Sessions Continued - 2:15-3:15 p.m.

Adult A.D.D. and A.D.H.D. Room 1318/1320 Del Larkin, LCSW, CAADC, Salvation Army, Harbor Light CenterReview the symptoms of Attention Deficit Disorder (A.D.D.) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (A.D.H.D.) in adults and their misdiagnosis. Explore the impact of these on a person’s activities of daily life.

Foundations for Mental Health: Social and Emotional Learning in Schools Room 1315M. Bill Hellyer, MS, OTR/L, Kildeer Countryside School District 96Illinois was the first state to establish statewide, free-standing social and emotional learning standards. Learn the standards and their potential impact within the school system

Panel Discussion 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.Journey Part 2: Supporting my Family Member

Barnes & Noble College Auditorium

Conference evaluation

Throughtout the day please complete the evaluation form and return it to the registration table, or to a staff member upon completion.

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General Session

Ashley Kuhl Piwowarski, Psy. D.Dr. Ashley Kuhl Piwowarski is a licensed clinical psychologist and the director of Outpatient Services for Hartgrove Behavioral Health System. She has a doctorate in clinical psychology, and has previously worked in both inpatient psychiatric and outpatient community mental health settings with a wide range of individuals seeking mental health treatment. She has received specialized training in the treatment of traumatic stress in children, adolescents, and adults.

RemarksSenator Michael E. HastingsSenator Michael E. Hastings was elected to the 98th General Assembly in the Illinois State Senate in 2012. During his tenure, he has worked in a bi-partisan manner to pass numerous pieces of legislation that have positively changed the social and financial landscape of Illinois. He currently serves on the Appropriations I, Appropriations II, Financial Institutions, Insurance and State Government & Veterans Affairs Committee. Senator Hastings also is the vice-chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee and holds the title of “the youngest serving Senator in Illinois.” As a result of his hard work, he was named “Legislator of the Year” by the Mental Health Association of Illinois, “Friend of Agriculture” by the Illinois Farm Bureau and an “Environmental Champion” by the Illinois Environmental Council.

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Hastings continued

Senator Hastings earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Leadership and Management at West Point in 2003, and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army. Following graduation, he deployed to Iraq and rose to the rank of captain. For his meritorious service in a combat zone, Senator Hastings was awarded the Bronze Star Medal. In addition to earning a Master’s degree in Business Administration, with honors, from the University of Illinois, he also holds a Juris Doctor degree from The John Marshall Law School in Chicago, Ill.

Keynote Address

Thomas J. Dart, Cook County SheriffAt the Cook County Department of Corrections, Cook County Sheriff Thomas Dart oversees a population of more than 12,000 that includes inmates both housed on-site and ordered to alternative programs such as electronic monitoring. There are approximately 2,500 to 3,000 people with diagnosed mental illness housed in the jail on any given day, making it the largest mental health facility in the country. Sheriff Dart firmly believes that a service provider is a far more productive setting than a jail for those with mental illness. In 2013, he launched the Office of Mental Health Policy & Advocacy, which operates a 24-hour Care Line for mentally ill ex-inmates and families of current mentally ill inmates, while screening all pre-bond detainees for mental illness. Sheriff Dart has received many awards from national and local mental health advocacy organizations for his push to end what has become a de facto criminalization of mental illness. As Cook County Sheriff, he has brought an aggressive, yet innovative approach to law enforcement. A former prosecutor and state legislator, Sheriff Dart has long fought to protect the most vulnerable members of our society.

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Breakout Session Presenters

Catherine Braxton, Silver Dawn Senior Friendly CitiesCatherine Braxton has worked in the field of Alzheimer’s and related dementias for almost 20 years. She received her B.A. from the University of Illinois and completed all master level course work at National Louis University. Ms. Braxton is a Certified Activity Professional, Trained Support Group Leader and Facilitator and Certified in Mental Health First Aid. She is the Social Service Coordinator at Joshua Arms Supportive Living Program. Ms. Braxton has worked as an Activity Director, Memory Care Unit Director, and adjunct faculty member at Joliet Junior College. She is the recipient of the Dr. Richard and Gertrude P. Zalar Gentle Touch Award through Presence Health Foundation/St. Joseph Medical Center.

Colleen Caron, MS, RN, AMITA Alexian Behavioral HealthColleen Caron years has more than 29 years of experience as a psychiatric nurse and has a Master of Science in Health Administration from the University of St. Francis. She is a Certified Laughter Leader through THE WORLD LAUGHTER TOUR and achieved a certification in Geriatrics from the University of Illinois. She is employed by Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital, Business Development Department working with older adults. Her employment at Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital includes the development of a Crises Outreach Program for older adults and work as a RN Consultant in Clinical Research Trials for Mental Health. She is currently serving on the board of Casa Esperenza, a homeless shelter for women and children and Oak Crest Day Care Center for Early Dementia.

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Cynthia Cornejo, M.A., Psy. D., Prairie State CollegeDr. Cynthia Cornejo serves as our event’s master of ceremonies and panel moderator. She has worked within the field of Psychology for many years both as a clinician and educator. Her current role at Prairie State College includes Associate Professor of Psychology, Social Science Department Chair and Institutional review Board Chair. Since 2003, she has held a private psychotherapy practice and consultancy. From 2003 – 2006, Dr. Cornejo was the Coordinator of Child and Adolescent Outpatient Program at Alexian Bros. Behavioral Health Hospital (currently AMITA Health). She has been an adjunct faculty member at Illinois School of Professional Psychology and College of DuPage. Dr. Cornejo earned her Bachelor of Arts from Roosevelt University and her Masters and Doctorate degrees from Illinois School of Professional Psychology.

Richard Doss, Ph.D., LCP, Strong Minds InstituteDr. Richard Doss has been providing therapy in hospital, government, and private settings for more than 25 years. He works as a clinical psychologist at the Chicago Heights Vet Center, where he helps Veterans heal from the traumas of war and being in the military. Dr. Doss was the Suicide Prevention Program Manager for the 416th Theater Engineer Command where he was responsible for 13,000 Soldiers in 26 states and Puerto Rico. Certified in Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST), Dr. Doss has trained hundreds of soldiers and their families in the art of suicide awareness and suicide prevention through the Army’s Yellow Ribbon Program. He also is the recipient of a Civilian Medal of Service. Dr. Doss earned his Masters and Doctorate degrees from The University of Mississippi. Dr. Doss serves as the author of the soon to be released book, “Good Soldiers Suffer in Silence.”

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Erica Essary, Psy.D., LPC, QMHP, Sertoma Centre, Inc. Dr. Erica Essary is in the process of completing post doctoral hours to obtain licensure as a Clinical Psychologist as well as becoming a Certified Drug & Alcohol Counselor (CADC) this year. Dr. Essary earned a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology in 2014, and her doctoral research centered on the lived experiences of gender variant adults and how they conceptualize gender. She is the Internship Supervisor at Sertoma Centre, Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to serving individuals with disabilities, including severe and persistent mental illness. Dr. Essary envisions her future providing therapeutic services to transgender and gender variant individuals and is strongly committed to the Lesbian, Gay, Bi-Sexual, Transgender and Queer/Questioning community.

Mary E. Garrison, LCSW, ACSW, Associate Professor of Social Work, Millikin University Mary E. Garrison has extensive practice and policy experience in mental health and social services. Ms. Garrison provides educational courses and conducts research related to social issues and human behavior. She is involved within her state and local community with agencies such as NAMI Illinois Legislative Committee Member and National Association of Social Worker Illinois. Mary provides clinical supervision to social work professionals seeking licensure and also works as a consultant with local entities including the Decatur Housing Authority and the City of Decatur on HUD projects.

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Lisa Guardiola, NAMI South Suburbs of ChicagoLisa Guardiola is a graduate of St. Xavier University of Chicago with a Bachelors of Arts in both Psychology and Studio Arts. Currently, she is a Case Manager at Sertoma Centre and is applying to graduate school with the goal of becoming an Art Therapist. Lisa has used art and the creative process for personal empowerment and a coping mechanism. She believes,being an individual living with Paranoid Schizophrenia, that it is very important to her to work towards ending the stigma that is placed on persons who are diagnosed with a mental disorder. She serves as a Connection Support Group facilitator for South Suburban NAMI and her “In Our Own Voice” presentation has helped to inspire others.

M. Bill Hellyer, MS, OTR/ L, Kildeer Countryside School District 96Bill Hellyer is a graduate of Rush University’s Occupational Therapy Program. He has 19 years of practice as an occupational therapist in subacute rehabilitation, skilled nursing, adult psychology and school-based practice in a variety of settings with children ranging in ages from early childhood through high school. Currently, he is employed at Kildeer Countryside School District 96 serving students in grades first through eighth. In addition, he serves on the district’s Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) committee and has been part of a multi-district presentation team to conduct SEL presentations at the school, district and consortium level.

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Angela Jackson, Ph. D., Culturally Competent ConsultingDr. Angela Jackson, President of Culturally Competent Consulting, has worked in the field of consulting for over ten years. Dr. Jackson has her master’s degree in Community Counseling and Ph.D. in Counselor Education, with a specialty in Race and Social Policy. She is a licensed professional counselor, author of “The Cultural Awareness Journal,” and an in demand cultural consultant. Her specialization includes unpacking the cultural dynamics within a setting, environment, or the individual. She has provided cultural competency services for public and private schools, non-profit and profit entities. She enjoys community engagement service, and some of her work includes participation in diversity thought panels, emcee of Black History Month program, mentoring youth, and guest lecturing in higher education.

Del Larkin, LCSW, CAADC, The Salvation Army, Harbor Light CenterDel Larkin began her social services career more than 20 years ago and has held various positions, including Manager of Outpatient Services at Haymarket House, Senior Clinician at Rush Behavioral Health Services, Recovery Coach at Hazelden, and Director of several substance abuse and social services, including a postpartum depression program, at Healthcare Alternative Systems.

In 2010, Ms. Larkin became the Manager of Quality Assurance at The Salvation Army Harbor Light Center in Chicago and was later promoted to Director of Quality Assurance and Strategic Planning. She has an interest and expertise in Adult A.D.H.D., because of the high incidence of substance abusers who have a co-morbid diagnosis of A.D.D., and A.D.H.D.

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Darius McKinney, MHP, Illinois DHS/Division of Mental Health, Project Director for Illinois SAMHSA Transformational Mental Health Grant for Employment Darius McKinney has been helping people with severe mental illnesses find and maintain work at regular jobs of their choosing for the past 15 years. Mr. McKinney had been an employment specialist and team leader at Thresholds in Chicago for 10 years and an Individual Placement and Support (IPS) Trainer for four years. As an IPS trainer, he was responsible for executing and fulfilling all deliverables for their DHS/DMH contract, and to advise and assist the 18 IPS sites in Northern Illinois to implement, provide, and improve IPS services to consumers. Mr. McKinney currently is the Project Director for the Illinois SAMHSA Transformational Mental Health Grant for Employment, whose purpose is to develop the statewide infrastructure to sustain the IPS model in Illinois.

Tania Morawiec, M. Ed, Illinois Division of Mental HealthTania Morawiec is the lead IL Division of Mental Health Individualized Placement and Support (IPS) Trainer for Region 1, 2 & 5. She received her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Loyola University and her master’s degree in Education from Viterbo University. She has been employed in the field of workforce development for 14 years. During this time, she has assisted veterans, individuals with Mental Health Diagnoses, Traumatic Brain Injuries, Developmental Disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and histories of criminal justice system involvement find careers. Ms. Morawiec is a recipient of the National Certificate of Achievement in Employment Services. She is the Chair of the Networking with Employer’s Subcommittee of the IL SAMHSA Transforming Lives through Supported Employment Grant’s Supported Employment Coordinating Committee.

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Tami Neumann, Silver Dawn Senior Friendly CitiesTami Neumann has worked with the senior population for more than 20 years. She is a Certified Dementia Practitioner, Certified Virtual Dementia Tour Trainer, Speaker, and Published Author. Ms. Neumann is the host of the “Conversations in Care” radio program, the Executive Director of the Midlothian Chamber of Commerce, and Board Member of JD (Juvenile Diabetes) No Limits. In addition, she is a professional education instructor at Prairie State College and Kankakee Community College. Ms. Neumann received her education from Bowling Green State University and her Nursing Home Administration education from Madonna University.

Nickolas Sundberg, NAMI South Suburbs of ChicagoNickolas Sundberg is an artist with his associate degree in Graphic Design. As a facilitator for NAMI’s “In Our Own Voice” session, he feels it is his way to give others comfort and peace of mind and share his life’s journey to assist others facing similar mental illness challenges. In the past, Mr. Sundberg made choices that were a detriment to himself and his family. Today, by following his course of treatment, he is on the path to create a positive future.

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Room Locations

The following rooms are located within the Conference Center:

13151318/1320

1322Barnes & Noble College Auditorium

The following rooms are located in the adjacent building Adult Training and Outreach Center (ATOC):

A109A122A131A132

exhibitors

Aetna

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

Aperion Care of Chicago Heights

Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Illinois

Catholic Charities

Grand Prairie Services

Hartgrove Behavioral Health System

Ingalls Behavioral Health

Nami South Suburbs of Chicago

Prairie State College

Sertoma Centre

Thrivent Financial

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Additional Conference Features

Exhibit Expo Located in the atrium from 7:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Featuring many organizations offering mental health resources.

Luncheon Located in the atrium from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.

WiFi AccessChoose “settings” on your smart phone.

Click on “PSC-WIFI” to connect.

Continuing Education/Professional Development

Participation in today’s event offers CEU credits for multiple professions. Visit the CEU table to check in and to receive additional information.

6.0 CEU from Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation for: Nurses, Social Workers, Licensed Professional Counselors, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors, Nursing Home Administrators

6.0 PD for Teachers from the Illinois State Board of Education

5.75 CEU from Illinois Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Professional Certification Board (IAODAPCA) for: Counselor I or II, Preventionist I or II, CARS 1 or II, MISA 1 or II or III, PCGC II, CCJP II, CAAP I, CRSS I or II, MAATP I or II, RDDP, CFPPII

6.0 CEU for Illinois Certified Domestic Violence Professionals

6.0 CEU for EMT’s from Illinois Department of Public Health

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In Appreciation

Prairie State College Planning Committee

• Cynthia Cornejo, Psy. D.• Julie DeLong• Michelle Guiliani• Lisa Pickens• B.J. Schmidt• Stefanie Seeley

Event Partners Planning Committee

• Marianne Bithos, NAMI South Suburbs of Chicago• Felicia Houston, Ingalls Behavioral Health• Elizabeth Murphy, Grand Prairie Services• Christopher Tores, Catholic Charities• Gia Washington, Sertoma Centre, Inc.

The committee members would like to thank all of the presenters, panelists, planning committee members, Conference Center staff, Public Relations and Marketing Department, Institutional Support Services, and Facilities and Operations for making this event possible.

Thank you for participating in

this event.

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Continuing Professional EducationPrairie State College offers onsite training to assist professionals with maintaining their knowledge and skills by offering Continuing Education Units (CEU) and Professional Development (PD) for:

• Arborists• Counselors• Nurses• Nursing Home Administrators• Speech Pathologists• Social Workers• Teachers (PD)

CEU Provider ProgramEvent planners are able to add value to their conferences by offering CEUs to attendees. PSC manages all CEU paperwork and provides attendees with a CEU certificate. For more information, call (708) 709-7919 or visitprairiestate.edu/cpe

Conference Center and Room RentalThe Conference Center at PSC is an ideal location for your next meeting, workshop or conference, with plenty of free parking, easy access and free Wi-Fi. All rooms are comfortably furnished and include multimedia equipment.

The Barnes & Noble College Auditorium seats up to 486.It is an ideal location for your next personal or business event. Onsite catering is available. For available dates and rental fees, call (708) 709-3602 or visit prairiestate.edu/conferencecenter.

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Corporate Education and TrainingInvest in your employees through innovative training solutions that increase efficiency, enhance operations, and improve your bottom line. The Corporate and Continuing Education and Training Department is committed to lifelong learning by offering results-oriented training for your workforce needs. We offeri powerful and valuable solutions through customized programs that are presented either at your company facilities or on our campus. Customized training is provided in areas such as:

• Communication• Customer Service• Leadership• Manufacturing Practices• Safety• Team Development• Technology

For more information, call (708) 709-7895 or visit prairiestate.edu/training.

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notes

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notes