03/05/2024 Conference Agenda
Registration
Keynote Speaker
Making the Connection: Addressing Problem Gambling in Military and Veteran Populations
Speaker: Dr. Heather Chapman, Ph.D. ICGCII BACC
Description: As the local experts in gambling care, providers with gambling treatment expertise are an essential resource for veteran and military affiliated clients. For counselors, understanding military culture increases treatment efficacy better meeting the needs of this population. Further, the Department of Veterans Affairs aims to decrease barriers for care, ultimately improving outcomes. This presentation will provide attendees with an overview of of these cultural competencies, in the context of clinical presentation of gambling disorder.
Continuing Education: 1.0 OASAS Initial CPP/CPS, Renewal CASAC, CPP, CPS, CASAC-G, CPP-G, LMHC, Social Work, IGCCB
Speaker
Heather Chapman, Ph.D. ICGCII BACC
Dr. Heather Chapman is a clinical psychologist, a National Certified Gambling Counselor and Board Certified Clinical Consultant for the National Council on Problem Gambling, a member of the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers and serves on the Board of Directors for the National Council on Problem Gambling. She is an Associate Professor of Psychiatry at Case Western Reserve University, Deputy Director of the Veterans Addiction Recovery Center and the Director of the Gambling Treatment Program at the Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, the leader of gambling treatment, training consultation and research for the Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense. After 30 years of work in the gambling field, Dr. Chapman was recently honored by the National Council on Problem Gambling with The Robert Custer Lifetime Award for Direct Service. Dr. Chapman’s aim is as a research practitioner, helping people struggling with gambling, developing interactive, and dynamic tools to assist and maintain change.
Problem Gambling Among Veterans: A Discussion of the Task at Hand
Moderator: Jonathan Crandall, BSW, CRPA, VSR
Description: This session will be a panel discussion highlighting topics that are veteran-centered. Problem gambling often accompanies a host of co-occurring conditions common among the Veteran population. This discussion will showcase the unique challenges faced when serving the Veteran population.
Continuing Education: 1.5 OASAS Initial CPP/CPS, Renewal CASAC, CPP, CPS, CASAC-G, CPP-G, Social Work, IGCCB
Speaker
Jonathan Crandall
Jonathan Crandall is the Veteran Outreach Coordinator for the NY Council on Problem Gambling (NYCPG). Jonathan served eight years in the military and received his Bachelor of Social Work degree from Keuka College.
03/06/2024 Conference Agenda
Registration
Conference Welcome
Speakers:
Chinazo Cunningham, MD, NYS OASAS, CommissionerRobert Williams, NYS Gaming Commission, Executive Director
Keynote Speaker
Looking Back to Move Forward: The Potential Impacts of Sports Betting in New York
Speaker: Rachel Volberg, PhD
Description: Sports betting has expanded over the last couple of years in the United States and in New York. In this workshop we will review how sports betting has been introduced in different jurisdictions, identify who is at risk and what measures we can take to minimize gambling harm.
Continuing Education: 1.0 OASAS Initial CPP/CPS, Renewal CASAC, CPP, CPS, CASAC-G, CPP-G, Social Work, IGCCB
Speaker
Rachel Volberg, PhD
Rachel Volberg has been involved in epidemiological research on gambling and problem gambling since 1985 and has directed or consulted on numerous gambling studies throughout the world. In 1988, Volberg was the first investigator to receive funding from the National Institutes of Health to study the prevalence of problem gambling in the general population. Dr. Volberg has directed or consulted on numerous studies internationally, published extensively, and advised governments and private sector organizations on issues relating to gambling legalization, the epidemiology of problem gambling and public policy approaches to developing and refining services for problem gamblers and their families. She is currently the Principal Investigator on a large, multidisciplinary study funded by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, titled Social and Economic Impacts of Gambling in Massachusetts (SEIGMA), which has been underway since 2013.
Workshops
Gambling, Cannabis, and Alcohol-related Behaviors among Diverse Groups of College Students
Speaker: Jessica L. Martin, Ph.D. & M. Dolores Cimini, Ph.D.
Description: College students are among those most likely to engage in risky behaviors. The recent legalization of recreational cannabis use and mobile sports betting in New York has increased public health concerns for the already at-risk college population. Findings from a recent survey conducted at a large, public institution in NYS, provide an overview of gambling, cannabis, and alcohol use behaviors and differences across diverse communities. Implications and actionable steps for prevention and treatment professionals will be discussed.
Continuing Education: 1.0 OASAS Initial CPP/CPS, Renewal CASAC, CPP, CPS, CASAC-G, CPP-G, Social Work, IGCCB
Speaker
Jessica L. Martin, Ph.D.
Jessica L. Martin, Ph.D. is a licensed psychologist, Associate Director for the Center for Behavioral Health Promotion and Applied Research, a Senior Research Associate for the Research Foundation for SUNY, and a Research Fellow for the School of Education at the University at Albany-SUNY. She also maintains a small private practice. Dr. Martin’s research expertise is in substance use, health-risk, and addictive behaviors among young adults and college students.M. Dolores Cimini, Ph.D. Director, Center for Behavioral Health Promotion and Applied Research and Senior Research Scientist
Dr. M. Dolores Cimini is a New York State licensed psychologist and Director of the Center for Behavioral Health Promotion and Applied Research at the University at Albany, SUNY. She has also served as the Director of the nationally recognized Middle Earth Peer Assistance Program. Dr. Cimini has led comprehensive efforts in research-to-practice translation at the University at Albany for the past 30 years with over $15 Million in support from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), U.S. Department of Education, U.S. Department of Justice Office on Violence Against Women, and New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports. The screening and brief intervention program developed by Dr. Cimini, the STEPS Comprehensive Alcohol Screening and Brief Intervention Program, has earned 13 national awards for best practices and innovation in behavioral health care. Dr. Cimini has co-edited two books, including a volume focused on college student health and well-being entitled Promoting Behavioral Health and reducing Risk Among College Students: A Comprehensive Approach (2018) and Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment for Substance Use: A Practitioner’s Guide 2020)
Effectively Responding to the Expansion of Gambling in New York State
Speaker: Rachel Volberg, PhD
Description: Gambling has changed rapidly in New York since 2018. In this session, we will review the potential impacts of casinos and sports betting in NY and identify the population groups most likely to be affected. We will assess how harms from casino gambling and sports betting can be minimized.
Continuing Education: 1.0 OASAS Initial CPP/CPS, Renewal CASAC, CPP, CPS, CASAC-G, CPP-G, Social Work, IGCCB
Speaker
Rachel Volberg
Rachel Volberg has been involved in epidemiological research on gambling and problem gambling since 1985 and has directed or consulted on numerous gambling studies throughout the world. In 1988, Volberg was the first investigator to receive funding from the National Institutes of Health to study the prevalence of problem gambling in the general population. Dr. Volberg has directed or consulted on numerous studies internationally, published extensively, and advised governments and private sector organizations on issues relating to gambling legalization, the epidemiology of problem gambling and public policy approaches to developing and refining services for problem gamblers and their families. She is currently the Principal Investigator on a large, multidisciplinary study funded by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, titled Social and Economic Impacts of Gambling in Massachusetts (SEIGMA), which has been underway since 2013.
The Link Between Problem Gambling and Trauma: Clinical Implications
Speaker: Dr. Heather Chapman, Ph.D. ICGCII BACC
Description: Problem gambling often co-occurs with other mental health issues, including trauma and post traumatic stress. Recent studies have begun to reveal the incidence of this relationship and why those with trauma are particularly vulnerable to developing a gambling problem. This presentation will review the nature of the problem as well as implications for best practice care.
Continuing Education: 1.0 OASAS Initial CPP/CPS, Renewal CASAC, CPP, CPS, CASAC-G, CPP-G, LMHC, Social Work, IGCCB
Speaker
Dr. Heather Chapman
Dr. Heather Chapman is a clinical psychologist, a National Certified Gambling Counselor and Board Certified Clinical Consultant for the National Council on Problem Gambling, a member of the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers and serves on the Board of Directors for the National Council on Problem Gambling. She is an Associate Professor of Psychiatry at Case Western Reserve University, Deputy Director of the Veterans Addiction Recovery Center and the Director of the Gambling Treatment Program at the Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, the leader of gambling treatment, training consultation and research for the Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense. After 30 years of work in the gambling field, Dr. Chapman was recently honored by the National Council on Problem Gambling with The Robert Custer Lifetime Award for Direct Service. Dr. Chapman’s aim is as a research practitioner, helping people struggling with gambling, developing interactive, and dynamic tools to assist and maintain change.
Empowering Lives: Problem Gambling Recovery Support Services
Speaker: Brenda Harris-Collins, Director, Recovery Bureau, NYS OASAS
Description: This conference session is an informative exploration of problem gambling recovery support services. Join us in this collaborative effort to advance recovery support services and empower individuals on their journey to a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Continuing Education: 1.0 OASAS Initial CPP/CPS, Renewal CASAC, CPP, CPS, CASAC-G, CPP-G, Social Work, IGCCB
Speaker
Brenda Harris-Collins, Director, Recovery Bureau, NYS OASAS
Brenda Harris-Collins works in the Division of Addiction Treatment and Recovery (ATAR) for New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS). Brenda is the Director of the Recovery Bureau where she oversees New York States Recovery Community Outreach Centers (RCOC’s), Peer Integration, Peer Engagement Specialist services, the proposed regulation for the voluntary certification of Recovery Residences, Recovery Ready Workplace development and the overall NYS recovery agenda. She is working diligently in her position to assure that Recovery Oriented Systems of Care (ROSC) and Recovery Support Services continue to flourish in the State of New York. Brenda is a Trauma Informed Care Champion and, on the Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Council at NYS OASAS promoting the transformation of OASAS and the provider system. Brenda brings to the Recovery Bureau 36 plus years in the field of Addiction, 15 years focusing on ROSC and being a Recovery Coach for approximately 13 years. Brenda is a family member in recovery and is passionate about recovery services for women and faith as a pathway to recovery.
Lunch Break
Keynote Speaker
How We Speak Matters: Undoing Stigmatizing Language
Speaker: Andrew J Schreier
Director of Clinical Services/ICS, LPC, CSAC, BACC, ICGC-IIDescription: Language is important. How we speak to and about individuals is ultimately how we treat them. The language we use is vital when it comes to prevention, education, treatment, and recovery from those experiencing problems with gambling and those diagnosed with Gambling Use Disorder (GUD). The use of some language continues to be outdated, not based on clinical application, stigmatizing, and even harmful. Unfortunately, this common language continues to be used in settings helping those impacted by gambling, substance use, and mental health. The language we use is evident in our collaboration efforts, engaging with communities, documentation, and in direct services we provide individuals. Professionals may not realize the impact language may have on the people they serve. Using these types of words can impact someone not seeking help, disengaging in services, discouraging progress, and feelings of humiliation and shame. As further movement encourages the use of patient-centered language there is a need to incorporate ways to undo the language we’ve used and utilize new language to foster safe environments for recovery.
Continuing Education: 1.0 OASAS Initial CPP/CPS, Renewal CASAC, CPP, CPS, CASAC-G, CPP-G, LMHC, Social Work, IGCCB
Speaker
Andrew J Schreier
Director of Clinical Services/ICS, LPC, CSAC, BACC, ICGC-IIAndrew J. Schreier is an Independent Clinical Supervisor, Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor, Board Approved Clinical Consultant, and International Certified Gambling Counselor - II. Mr. Schreier graduated from Ottawa University with a Master’s Degree in Counseling and Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Human Services. He is the Director of Clinical Services in Wisconsin for Community Medical Services that provides medicated-assisted treatment for individuals with opioid use disorder. He provides oversight and guidance for all clinical and behavior health services. Mr. Schreier also works at New Life Resources, Inc. that provides individual counseling/therapy, children and adolescent services, couples/marital counseling, group therapy, and consultation. Experience over the years include working in group home, halfway house, residential, medicated-assisted treatment, and outpatient treatment settings. He presents on various topics related to substance use and mental health.
Workshops
Harm Reduction & Gambling
Speaker: Andrew J Schreier, Director of Clinical Services/ICS, LPC, CSAC, BACC, ICGC-II
Description: Harm Reduction is gaining increasing attention in helping those impacted by use disorders and is gaining organizational support, including from SAMHSA and the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). Few professionals have received adequate education and training on harm reduction. As a result, harm reduction is often filled with misunderstandings and misinformation that create stigmas towards its evidence-based use. Gambling prevention, education, treatment, and recovery have used harm reduction strategies throughout, and yet it often has not been vocally identified. Learn about what harm reduction is, what it is not, and its role in the gambling profession.
Continuing Education: 1.0 OASAS Initial CPP/CPS, Renewal CASAC, CPP, CPS, CASAC-G, CPP-G, LMHC, Social Work, IGCCB
Speaker
Andrew J Schreier
Andrew J. Schreier is an Independent Clinical Supervisor, Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor, Board Approved Clinical Consultant, and International Certified Gambling Counselor - II. Mr. Schreier graduated from Ottawa University with a Master’s Degree in Counseling and Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Human Services. He is the Director of Clinical Services in Wisconsin for Community Medical Services that provides medicated-assisted treatment for individuals with opioid use disorder. He provides oversight and guidance for all clinical and behavior health services. Mr. Schreier also works at New Life Resources, Inc. that provides individual counseling/therapy, children and adolescent services, couples/marital counseling, group therapy, and consultation. Experience over the years include working in group home, halfway house, residential, medicated-assisted treatment, and outpatient treatment settings. He presents on various topics related to substance use and mental health.
Financial Strategies for working with those affected by problem gambling
Speaker: Rebecca Cooper, LCSW and Barbara Tabala, BBA, CASAC-G, Advanced and Mara Mendicino, CASAC II - G, SAP
Description: During this session, we will review the financial implications for those affected by problem gambling, how to address financial challenges in the treatment setting and supplemental resources.
Continuing Education: 1.0 OASAS Initial CPP/CPS, Renewal CASAC, CPP, CPS, CASAC-G, CPP-G, LMHC, Social Work,IGCCB
Speaker
Rebecca Cooper
Rebecca Cooper is a licensed social worker and currently is the Director of the Bureau of Problem Gambling at OASAS. She has been working in the addictions field for 32 years. For the last 18 years, she has worked at OASAS in various positions related to the regulatory, Medicaid managed care, prevention, credentialing, and clinical implementation of addiction services. During her time at OASAS she has been involved in problem gambling oversight and implementation of services in various capacities. Prior to her career at OASAS, Rebecca was the Program Director for the Center for Problem Gambling in Albany, NY and worked in both outpatient and inpatient OASAS certified programs. She has been in private practice part time for the last 14 years.Barbara Tabala
Barbara Tabala is the Director of Dutchess County and Sullivan Satellite Programs for the Lexington Center for Recovery. She has extensive outpatient treatment experience with adult SUD and problem gambling clientele and their families.Mara Mendicino
Mara is a Certified Alcohol &Substance abuse counselor with a specialty in Gambling Disorder. She is also a Substance Abuse Professional for Clarkstown NY, and is a board member of the New York Counsel on Problem Gambling. Mara holds a Life Coach Certificate toward helping folks with life stressors, and motivating them toward a life that brings them happiness. Mara has been working for Lexington Center for Recovery for the last 15 years . She is a counselor ,helping men and women who struggle with substance abuse .She also runs the gambling program in Rockland and Westchester Counties, including helping gamblers, and their family members, toward education , prevention ,and understanding how gambling can negatively effect their lives, and the lives of their families. Mara is compassionate and caring ,and enjoys spending time with family and friends . She has been married for 35 years to her high school sweetheart, had has 2 beautiful daughters who are a clinical social worker and managing the HR department for the American Dream mall.
Aging and Addiction - INTERSECTIONS A Recovery. Program Without Boundaries - Peer Delivered Self-Care as a Pathway to Recovery
Speakers: Lawrence T. Force, Ph.D., LCSW-R and Jim Ball, CCAR-RCA, CRPA, CASAC-T
Description: In the area of health and wellness, one area that is vastly overlooked is adult addictions. The mission of the National Organization for Adult Addictions and Recovery (NOAAR) is to raise awareness of addictions in adults, in midlife and beyond. NOAAR focuses on ways to truly help this population. INTERSECTIONS is an innovative, peer delivered, modular self-care program developed by the National Organization of Adult Addictions and Recovery (NOAAR) and Mental Health America of Dutchess County.
Continuing Education: 1.0 OASAS Initial CPP/CPS, Renewal CASAC, CPP, CPS, CASAC-G, CPP-G, CPGC, Social Work, IGCCB
Speaker
Lawrence T. Force
Lawrence T. Force, Ph.D., LCSW-R is a Founder and Chief Clinical Officer with the National Organization of Adult Addictions and Recovery (NOAAR) and has 35 years’ experience as a practitioner, academician, administrator, and researcher in the public, non-profit and private sector. He specializes in aging, psychiatric disorders, mental health and wellness, addictions across the lifespan. Dr. Force, a professor of psychology, Director of the Center on Aging and DIS-Ability Policy at Mount Saint Mary College and is the founder of AgePlan, a national advocacy and training organization.Jim Ball
Jim Ball is the Director of Peer Service for Mental Health of America of Dutchess County. In his role he has been able to grow the peer program staff to 40 certified peers. Jim is the Founder and COO of the National Organization of Adult Addiction and Recovery (NOAAR). The mission of NOAAR is to treat, prevent and raise awareness of addiction in adults, midlife and beyond.
When Our Heroes Need Our Help
Speaker: Shirley Hoak, ICGC-II, CFRA, CPRA
Description: First Responders are often an overlooked and underserved population when it comes to Problem Gambling. In this session, we will take a closer look at this community and attributes of Problem Gambling that can sometimes increase risks for self-destructive behaviors, addictions, and suicide attempts. It can be difficult for first responders to ask for help. We’ll look at some ways to overcome those barriers to treatment and some next steps to bring awareness and education to these communities to help them become more gambling informed.
Continuing Education: 1.0 OASAS Initial CPP/CPS, Renewal CASAC, CPP, CPS, CASAC-G, CPP-G, Social Work, IGCCB
Speaker
Shirley Hoak
First Responders are often an overlooked and underserved population when it comes to Problem Gambling. In this session, we will take a closer look at this community and attributes of Problem Gambling that can sometimes increase risks for self-destructive behaviors, addictions, and suicide attempts. It can be difficult for first responders to ask for help. We’ll look at some ways to overcome those barriers to treatment and some next steps to bring awareness and education to these communities to help them become more gambling informed.
Recovery Panel
Topic: Do You S.E.E. Us? A Look Into the Recovery Journey
Description: In this panel discussion we will hear stories from people impacted by gambling harm. As we listen to their stories we will see how we can Support, Educate, and Enagage to continue to work together to reduce gambling harm among all populations.
Continuing Education: 1.0 OASAS Initial CPP/CPS, Renewal CASAC, CPP, CPS, CASAC-G, CPP-G, Social Work, IGCCB
Recovery Meetings
Speaker: Coming Soon
Description: Coming Soon
Speaker
Information Coming Soon
TBD.
03/07/2024 Conference Agenda
Registration
Veteran Coalition Meeting
Opening Remarks
Speaker:
Gloria Block
Keynote Speaker
Courageous Conversations: Developing Racial Literacy in Problem Gambling Advocacy and Treatment
Speaker: Zina Rodriguez, MSW, MCAP, CDE
Description: In this presentation tailored for problem gambling professionals, we will explore the vital concept of "Courageous Conversations" within the context of developing racial literacy. Navigating the complexities of racial dynamics is essential for fostering inclusivity and efficacy in problem gambling advocacy and treatment. Join us as we delve into strategies to cultivate a deeper understanding of racial issues, facilitating more informed and empathetic interactions within the professional sphere.
Continuing Education: 1.0 OASAS Initial CPP/CPS, Renewal CASAC, CPP, CPS, CASAC-G, CPP-G, Social Work, IGCCB
Speaker
Zina Rodriguez
Zina is a social worker, certified addiction professional and a certified diversity executive. She collaborates with organizations on the development of transformational DEIB strategies that align with their mission and values. Zina has over 25 years of experience and has held senior leadership roles for national and global behavioral health care companies. She is a global speaker on topics related to culturally inclusive treatment, diversity, equity and inclusion in health care. She is passionate about co- creating inviting, intentional and inclusive healing spaces for individuals to achieve wellness while creating pathways for success for individuals from underrepresented communities. Zina serves as a Board Member for the National Association of Treatment Providers, Young People in Recovery, C4 Foundation and is the Chairperson for the Brain Love Foundation. She has also served as an adjunct professor at Rutgers University School of Social Work and holds a MSW from Fordham University and a BSW degree from Rutgers University.
Workshops
Harmony in Hardships: Peer-Led Initiatives for Veteran Well-being
Speaker: Gavin T Walters Sr, MSW-USAF Veteran
Description: Harmony in Hardships: Peer-Led Initiatives for Veteran Well-being" explores the principles and practices of peer support to enhance the well-being of veterans facing challenges. Participants will examine common veteran struggles, learn effective communication and peer counseling skills, and analyze successful peer-led programs. The course emphasizes the creation of supportive communities, addressing diversity and cultural sensitivity. By the end, participants will be equipped to initiate and sustain peer-led initiatives, fostering harmony and resilience within the veteran community.
Continuing Education: 1.0 OASAS Initial CPP/CPS, Renewal CASAC, CPP, CPS, CASAC-G, Social Work
Speaker
Gavin T Walters Sr
Coming Soon.
What is on the Horizon - the Intersection of Gambling and Gaming
Speaker: Craig W Johnson, LMHC, Master CASAC-G
Description: This workshop will explore some of the attractions of both gambling and gaming and the features that promote continued and repetitive behaviors. We will review some prevalence information about both activities and the complex and sometimes sophisticated relationship between patterns of gambling and gaming and the way that money has subtly become infused into modern gaming.
Continuing Education: 1.0 OASAS Initial CPP/CPS, Renewal CASAC, CPP, CPS, CASAC-G, CPP-G, LMHC, Social Work, IGCCB
Speaker
Craig W Johnson, LMHC, Master CASAC-G
Mr. Johnson has been providing counseling to individuals and families struggling with gambling for over 15 years.
From Hooked to Helped: Addressing the Youth Gambling Problem
Speaker: Chelsea Kehrli (she/her/hers) Youth/Young Adult Education & Training Coordinator, CRPA, CARC
Description: This workshop will consist of an interactive panel of young people with lived experience with problem gambling. Panelists will share to help the audience understand more about what problem gambling in young people looks like, how it can progress, what the dangers are and how to recognize warning signs, where to get support, and most importantly, see the panelists as powerful examples of recovery and hope. This panel will encourage courageous conversation and vulnerability to bring us all together through story and recovery.
Continuing Education: 1.0 OASAS Initial CPP/CPS, Renewal CASAC, CPP, CPS, CASAC-G, CPP-G, Social Work, IGCCB
Speaker
Chelsea Kehrli (she/her/hers) Youth/Young Adult Education & Training Coordinator, CRPA, CARC
Today, Chelsea is grateful for the opportunity to be the person that she needed when she was younger. She is currently the Youth and Young Adult Education & Training Coordinator for Youth Voices Matter, NY where she gets to use her lived experience to promote courageous conversations, and encourage young people to bring their best selves to the table while embracing their autonomy.
Cultivating Intentional Allyship: A Culturally Responsive Approach to Problem Gambling Treatment and Advocacy
Speaker: Zina Rodriguez MSW, MCAP, CDE
Description: Embark on a transformative journey as we delve into the heart of intentional allyship within the context of problem gambling advocacy, with a special focus on culturally responsive treatment. This presentation offers a unique perspective on how intentional allyship can be a catalyst for positive change, especially in culturally diverse communities. This presentation not only equips problem gambling professionals with the tools of intentional allyship but also emphasizes the critical role of cultural responsiveness in creating impactful, inclusive strategies. Join us for an enlightening session that explores the intersection of intentional allyship and culturally responsive treatment, fostering a collective commitment to addressing problem gambling with sensitivity, respect, and understanding.
Continuing Education: 1.0 OASAS Initial CPP/CPS, Renewal CASAC, CPP, CPS, CASAC-G, CPP-G, LMHC, Social Work, IGCCB
Speaker
Zina Rodriguez
Zina is a social worker, certified addiction professional and a certified diversity executive. She collaborates with organizations on the development of transformational DEIB strategies that align with their mission and values. Zina has over 25 years of experience and has held senior leadership roles for national and global behavioral health care companies. She is a global speaker on topics related to culturally inclusive treatment, diversity, equity and inclusion in health care. She is passionate about co- creating inviting, intentional and inclusive healing spaces for individuals to achieve wellness while creating pathways for success for individuals from underrepresented communities. Zina serves as a Board Member for the National Association of Treatment Providers, Young People in Recovery, C4 Foundation and is the Chairperson for the Brain Love Foundation. She has also served as an adjunct professor at Rutgers University School of Social Work and holds a MSW from Fordham University and a BSW degree from Rutgers University.
Lunch Break
Workshops
Hidden Mischief Mock Bedroom
Speaker: Jessica McCarthy, New York Council on Problem Gambling
Description: This interactive presentation will allow participants to walk through a mock bedroom and look for signs of risky behavior related to substance use, problem gambling, and more. A reveal discussion will educate on the items in the room and how they can be used. The presentation will also discuss how problem gambling was implemented into the mock bedroom concept, and how prevention providers can integrate problem gambling warning signs and conversations into their presentations.
Continuing Education: 1.0 OASAS Initial CPP/CPS, Renewal CASAC, CPP, CPS, CASAC-G, CPP-G, Social Work , IGCCB
Speaker
Jessica McCarthy, New York Council on Problem Gambling
Jessica McCarthy is part of the New York Council on Problem Gambling team. Jessica has been serving New Yorkers in the prevention field for over 5 years as a Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor trainee and is a Credentialed Prevention Professional with a specialty in gambling.
Money Matters and the Financial Implications of Problematic Gambling
Speaker: Daniel Trolaro, VP Prevention
Description: This workshop will take a look into the complex intersection of money matters and the often-overlooked financial implications and devastation from a person whoexperiences problematic gambling. This workshop will aim to equip participants with knowledge and tools to recognize warning signs, understand the economic fallout, and provide practical concepts to support those in need.
Continuing Education: 1.0 OASAS Initial CPP/CPS, Renewal CASAC, CPP, CPS, CASAC-G, CPP-G, LMHC, Social Work, IGCCB
Speaker
Daniel Trolaro, VP Prevention
Daniel Trolaro, MS in Psychology, is the Vice President of Prevention in the US for EPIC Risk Management. Dan has worked with stakeholders in over 35 states and has delivered hundreds of workshops, trainings, and keynote presentations around the country centered on prevention, education, and emerging trends in the world of sports betting, gaming and internet gambling. Having started his journey of recovery from gambling addiction on Feb 11, 2010, Dan has shared his story on the You Tube Channel, Soft White Underbelly by Mark Laita and co-hosts a 30 minute podcast and weekly radio show across the country called, “Hello My Name Is Craig” with fellow gambler in recovery and morning National TV host on Fox Sports, Craig Carton. Dan has 3 kids, 2 of whom are first year college students and one in 8th grade.
Link to Hope
Speaker: Paige Lorette, LMHC; Training & Postvention Coordinator
Description: If you were working and encountered someone experiencing a medical emergency, would you know what to do? There is a good chance you may have had some basic First Aid training in the past and would likely feel confident and competent to render some basic support until other resources could be introduced if necessary. Now imagine you encountered someone experiencing another type of emergency, some sort of emotional crisis or distress. Perhaps so severe they were even thinking about suicide. Would you know how to recognize when someone might be in that level of distress and know how to offer similar assistance as with First Aid?
Continuing Education: 1.0 OASAS Initial CPP/CPS, Renewal CASAC, CPP, CPS, CASAC-G, CPP-G, LMHC, Social Work
Speaker
Paige Lorette
Paige has been in the field of mental health for over 10 years. After completing a Masters in Counseling and Community Psychology, she worked in prevention with the juvenile justice population and began clinical work as a Functional Family Therapist in Schenectady County. She then moved to an outpatient school-based clinic for elementary-age students in the Saratoga area, and then as the director of an Assertive Community Treatment Team in the capital region, working with adults diagnosed with Serious and Persistent Mental Illness. She started her work with SPCNY as the Training and Postvention Coordinator in the Summer of 2022.
Art Therapy & Trauma
Speaker: Dani Koulermos, LCAT-P
Description: In this session we will review how to identify Post Traumatic Stress symptoms and Post Traumatic Growth. We will discuss the history of Art Therapy used in addiction services. statistical analysis of SUD, PTSD and suicidality in Veterans.
Continuing Education: 1.0 OASAS Initial CPP/CPS, Renewal CASAC, CPP, CPS, CASAC-G, CPP-G, Social Work
Speaker
Dani Koulermos
Dani Koulermos is a U.S. Army Veteran who served as a Military Police Officer from 2012 to 2016, both stateside and overseas. After her honorable discharge, she pursued a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and Clinical Art Therapy from Long Island University, focusing on PTSD and MST, and graduated with dual honors. Currently, she is a Primary Counselor at Outreach Recovery Center's Veterans Track in Brentwood, working towards her New York State Licensed Creative Arts Therapist certification. She specializes in art therapy for trauma processing and recovery from substance abuse, particularly for veterans with PTS and SUD. Dani manages a caseload including homeless populations and runs multiple therapy groups, including Creative Solutions in Recovery Art Therapy and Grief and Loss in this setting. Dani also conducts an online Military Sexual Trauma webinar series, advocating and educating about MST. She is involved in several initiatives, including the Resource Coalition at the Northport Veterans Affairs Medical Center and the Veterans Suicide Coalition. She served on the Suffolk County Women’s Advisory Commission from 2020-2022 and was honored in 2023 for her military duty, leadership, and community service.
Keynote Speaker
Why is Problematic Gambling so Difficult to S.E.E. - A look at College Students and Gambling Behaviors
Speaker: Daniel Trolaro, VP Prevention
Description: Consistently, there are more creative and fast paced forms of entertainment to help people escape, cope, or adjust to the stressors of life. Whether finding it through substance, technology, or a variety of other methods, individuals are becoming more daring, tech savvy and tech dependent. One area that has seen explosive growth exists in the world of legalized sports gambling. Join us for an engaging and informative workshop that delves into the world of sports betting on college campuses and explores its profound implications on college aged individuals. In an era where sports betting is becoming increasingly prevalent, especially among college students, it's crucial to understand the risks, rewards, and how we can S.E.E them with Support, Education, and Engagement.
Continuing Education: 1.0 OASAS Initial CPP/CPS, Renewal CASAC, CPP, CPS, CASAC-G, CPP-G, Social Work, IGCCB
Speaker
Daniel Trolaro, VP Prevention
Daniel Trolaro, MS in Psychology, is the Vice President of Prevention in the US for EPIC Risk Management. Dan has worked with stakeholders in over 35 states and has delivered hundreds of workshops, trainings, and keynote presentations around the country centered on prevention, education, and emerging trends in the world of sports betting, gaming and internet gambling. Having started his journey of recovery from gambling addiction on Feb 11, 2010, Dan has shared his story on the You Tube Channel, Soft White Underbelly by Mark Laita and co-hosts a 30 minute podcast and weekly radio show across the country called, “Hello My Name Is Craig” with fellow gambler in recovery and morning National TV host on Fox Sports, Craig Carton. Dan has 3 kids, 2 of whom are first year college students and one in 8th grade.