Department of Health, Department of Health Facilities, and Department of Human Services

West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) Cabinet Secretary Karen L. Bowling today announced registration continues for the 2015 Integrated Behavioral Health Conference scheduled for September 22-24, 2015, at the Charleston Civic Center. DHHR’s Bureau for Behavioral Health and Health Facilities and 18 partners are organizing the continuing education conference for members of the behavioral health community across the state and nation.

“By bringing together medical professionals, educators, families and survivors, we have the opportunity to collaborate across disciplines and explore the options for successfully treating many behavioral health related disorders,” Secretary Bowling said. “Continuing in Governor Earl Ray Tomblin’s fight against substance abuse, this comprehensive conference will gather national and state experts in one setting to explore treatment options and share best practices.”

The Integrated Behavioral Health Conference, part of the Bureau’s commitment to invest in, build and strengthen statewide services, will provide attendees the opportunity to engage with other members of the behavioral health community, create partnerships, and earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs). Speakers include Joan Gillece, Director of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Center for Trauma Informed Care; William Kellibrew IV, international advocate for civil, human, women, children and victims’ rights; Dr. Gabor Maté, renowned speaker and bestselling author on a range of topics including addiction, stress and childhood development; and Ross Szabo, social innovator and CEO of Human Power Project, a company that creates mental health curriculum.  Additionally, Miss West Virginia, Chelsea Malone, will share her platform on promoting positive mental health.

“Our goal is for attendees to leave this conference more equipped and committed to promoting recovery and resiliency in their work and lives,” said Kimberly Walsh, Deputy Commissioner for Programs and Policy of DHHR’s Bureau for Behavioral Health and Health Facilities. “We believe that educating and investing in West Virginia’s behavioral health professionals provides limitless possibilities for success.”

Participants will have the opportunity to choose from more than 100 plenary and workshop sessions. Topics to be covered include: integrating physical and behavioral health in community settings, canine and equine therapy across populations, motivational interviewing, youth-led prevention and recovery, cross-disability resilience methods for treating trauma, substance use and child welfare.

Free family events open to the public, including a Recovery Celebration Concert with country music star Templeton Thompson, and a session on internet safety will be offered for both parents and students. Registration for these two evening events is not required. Additional information is available at http://bit.ly/1OwEMno.

For more information about the conference and registration options, please visit, www.dhhr.wv.gov.