Session 1. Our Common Humanity: Healing centered on compassion and connection

This presentation invites participants to consider trauma and addiction through the lens of disconnection and suffering, emphasizing the fundamental role of compassion and connection in the healing process. Attendees will gain an understanding of how experiences of trauma and addiction disrupt individuals’ sense of belonging and purpose. The session explores pathways to recovery that prioritize the cultivation of mindfulness, meaning, purpose, and belonging, illustrating how these elements foster resilience and well-being. Drawing upon current neuroscience and evidence-based practices, the presentation highlights the integration of mindfulness-based treatment modalities within addiction care. By weaving together scientific insights and compassionate practice, this session aims to inspire a more connected, empathetic, and effective approach to supporting individuals on their journey toward healing and recovery.

Session 2. Understanding Addiction Slang: Enhancing Communication and Trust in Patient Care

Effective communication is a cornerstone of quality patient care, particularly in addiction treatment, where trust and rapport are crucial for engagement and recovery. However, healthcare providers often encounter barriers when working with patients who use substance-related slang, which can impede understanding, assessment, and intervention. This presentation will explore the evolving landscape of addiction slang, highlighting its significance in clinical settings and equipping nurses and nurse practitioners with the knowledge to enhance patient interactions. Slang terms related to substance use serve multiple functions, including identity formation, secrecy, and group cohesion. When clinicians recognize and understand these terms, they can more accurately assess substance use history, detect relapse risks, and establish a nonjudgmental, patient-centered dialogue. Failing to comprehend addiction slang may lead to missed warning signs, misinterpretation of patient reports, and erosion of therapeutic relationships. By integrating knowledge of slang into their practice, nurses can foster trust, improve patient safety, and tailor interventions to better meet patients' needs. This session will provide an overview of commonly used addiction slang, strategies for interpreting and responding to slang in clinical interactions, and ethical considerations when discussing substance use with patients. Through case studies and interactive discussion, participants will develop practical skills to enhance their ability to communicate effectively with individuals struggling with addiction.

Session 3. The Southern Nevada Opioid Advisory Council (SNOAC) Four Strategic Pillars: Prevention, Rescue, Treatment, and Recovery

The Southern Nevada Opioid Advisory Council (SNOAC) is committed to developing a systems-level response to the substance use crisis in Southern Nevada through evidence-based strategies and unique community collaborations. Guided by a diverse Executive Committee and a broad General Committee composed of stakeholders across healthcare, education, social services, law enforcement, culturally specific groups, public health, and community organizations, SNOAC organizes its efforts around four strategic pillars: Prevention, Rescue, Treatment, and Recovery. Prevention strategies focus on reducing risk and increasing protective factors by promoting evidence-based education in Pre-K through 12 schools, expanding access to child care, and implementing targeted media campaigns about fentanyl risks and youth engagement alternatives. Rescue efforts include harm reduction approaches that aim to prevent overdose and improve quality of life for people actively using substances. These include expanding syringe service programs, peer mentorship, stigma-reduction campaigns, and support for Housing First initiatives. Treatment emphasizes access to care by supporting treatment-on-demand models, increasing the number of behavioral health providers, integrating evidence-based practices into drug courts, and improving access to medication for opioid use disorder through a “No Wrong Door” approach. Recovery strategies support person-centered pathways by expanding sober living options, improving policies to support recovery-friendly communities, and reducing stigma through targeted outreach. SNOAC’s work is grounded in guiding principles of health equity, data-driven evaluation, social determinants of health, and accountability. Key 2023 initiatives include equipping schools with prevention resources, supporting real-time overdose response through law enforcement and public health collaborations, and launching a mobile “service provider loop” transit system for individuals in need. The SNOAC’s recommendations to funders emphasize continued investment in evidence-based community efforts, structured decision-making, and prioritizing life-saving interventions. Through coordinated efforts across sectors, SNOAC aims to create a sustainable and compassionate regional response to the substance use crisis.

Session 4. Barriers, Attitudes, and Beliefs of Black Men's Engagement in Seeking Opioid Use Treatment

Opioid-related overdoses and deaths among Black men are increasing at alarming rates, yet this population remains significantly less likely to seek or engage in opioid use treatment. While existing research highlights racial disparities in treatment access, little is known about the specific behavioral, social, and structural factors influencing treatment-seeking behaviors among Black men. This study explores past opioid treatment-seeking behaviors and identifies key behavioral, normative, and control beliefs shaping opioid-seeking intentions, guided by the Theory of Planned Behavior. Using a qualitative, exploratory design, in-depth interviews were conducted with 25 Black men in the Triangle of North Carolina who have experienced opioid use disorder. Thematic analysis was employed to identify patterns in beliefs and decision-making processes regarding treatment. Findings provided insight into the barriers and facilitators influencing opioid treatment-seeking behaviors and inform the development of culturally responsive interventions to improve treatment engagement and reduce opioid-related health disparities in this population.

Session 5. The Power of Connection: Addiction nursing in an opioid treatment program

The drug fentanyl has changed the landscape of the drug using world. People using opioids in the US are at risk for overdose and experience new challenges when they attempt to discontinue. Opioid Treatment Programs across the United States report challenges with retention of patients, with less than 40% of new patients staying in treatment for more than 6-months. The Opioid Treatment Induction Support (OTIS) program helps individuals seeking treatment at an outpatient opioid treatment program who are using fentanyl. This program using a combination of nursing and peer recovery support personnel, which forms an OTIS team. Individuals in this program receive daily calls after they leave the clinic during their first 84 days of treatment. The goal of the program is to increase retention and medication compliance among the population. This presentation will present the structure and developmental learning of the OTIS Program, the outcome data, and what was learned by the multidisciplinary team in the process of development.

Session 6. Stimulants in Recovery: Balancing ADHD Treatment & Addiction Risk

Nurse practitioners and nurses working in addiction medicine frequently encounter patients with co-occurring Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and stimulant use disorder (SUD). While psychostimulants are the gold standard for ADHD treatment, their use in patients recovering from methamphetamine or cocaine use disorder is controversial due to concerns about relapse. However, emerging evidence suggests that carefully monitored stimulant therapy can improve ADHD symptoms and enhance overall functioning without necessarily increasing the risk of relapse. This presentation will provide an evidence-based approach to evaluating and managing ADHD in individuals with a history of stimulant addiction. Nurses and nurse practitioners will learn harm reduction strategies, risk mitigation techniques, and patient-centered decision-making frameworks to safely prescribe and monitor stimulant therapy in this population. Using case studies, the session will illustrate real-world examples of patients who have successfully maintained recovery while receiving stimulant therapy. The discussion will include best practices for ADHD assessment, medication selection, and strategies for ongoing monitoring to ensure safe and effective treatment. Additionally, participants will explore alternative pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic interventions for ADHD when stimulant therapy is not appropriate. By integrating research and clinical guidelines, this session will equip nurses and nurse practitioners with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of ADHD treatment in patients with a history of stimulant addiction. Attendees will gain practical tools to optimize patient outcomes while ensuring ethical, evidence-based care within addiction medicine.

Session 7. TBD

Introduction and Aims: The administration of Buprenorphine/Sublocade injections at the SAC/MAT Clinic in San Bernardino, California, lacks standardized guidelines, creating compliance challenges for licensed nurses. This Doctor in Nursing Practice quality improvement project proposes comprehensive guidelines to ensure uniformity, safety, and efficacy in practice. The intervention involves developing detailed protocols that cover injection techniques, safety measures, post-administration procedures, and monitoring patient satisfaction. Training sessions and competency assessments aim to enhance nursing adherence to these guidelines, increase knowledge, minimize compliance risks, and improve patient outcomes. Methodology: A quality improvement approach addressed the need for standardized guidelines and training protocols in Buprenorphine/Sublocade administration. The methodology involved reviewing the literature, consulting with clinic officials, and adhering to manufacturer instructions and best practices. Educational tools and protocols were developed, such as administration guidelines, knowledge scales, educational PowerPoint presentations, user guide handouts, checklists, competence scales, CDC evaluations, and patient satisfaction questionnaires. The intervention involved disseminating materials and conducting training sessions to assess staff knowledge and competence before and after implementation. Results: Educational interventions had a significant impact on staff knowledge and competence in administering Buprenorphine/Sublocade. Initially, none showed above-average knowledge, but post-intervention scores increased notably. The Perceived Competence Scale revealed high levels of post-intervention competence. The CDC evaluation revealed strong intentions to apply the new knowledge in practice, accompanied by significant improvements in perceived knowledge levels. Patient satisfaction scores showed nearly 100% satisfaction with injectable Buprenorphine/Sublocade. Impact and Significance: The project addresses critical gaps in administration protocols and training, aiming to enhance patient safety, treatment efficacy, and adherence to regulatory standards. It emphasizes evidence-based practice and continuous education to promote quality improvement in nursing in the management of opioid use disorder. Recommendations: Implement accessible materials, provide ongoing education, offer hands-on training, and conduct annual checkoffs to enhance nursing staff knowledge and competence.

Session 8. A Nurse Monitoring Program: The Nevada Journey

This article explores the experiences and lessons learned from the implementation of the Alternate to Discipline Program within Nevada’s nurse monitoring framework. The primary objectives of this discussion are threefold: to identify three significant challenges encountered within the Alternate to Discipline Program, to propose a method for reducing the stigma associated with addiction among healthcare professionals, and to highlight an actionable opportunity to enhance the success rates of participants in nurse monitoring programs. Through a review of program outcomes and stakeholder feedback, this paper aims to contribute to the ongoing dialogue on effective support systems for nurses facing substance use disorders, ultimately fostering a more compassionate and successful approach to recovery and professional rehabilitation.

Session 9. Meeting the Substance Use Disorder Treatment Needs of Autistic People

The diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder has increased dramatically over the past several decades. Whereas we previously believed that one male in 350 was on the Autism Spectrum, current statistics tell us that one person in 35, of all genders, is Autistic. Because of the unique challenges they face in living in a world not geared to their needs, Autistic people are likely to use substances recreationally in order to cope. In this session we will explore ways we can improve our understandings and better meet the needs of Autistic people.

Session 10. What Does it Take to be a Successful Recovery Community Organization? A Fireside Chat

Substance Use Disorder (SUD) remains a pressing concern in Nevada, where recovery is central to treatment. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) defines recovery as a process of change through which individuals improve health and wellness, live self-directed lives, and strive toward their full potential. The Foundation for Recovery (FFR), a Recovery Community Organization in Nevada, addresses the needs of individuals and families impacted by addiction. This evaluation highlights outcomes from three key initiatives: the Peer Recovery Support Specialist Training and Internship Program, the Community Recovery Center, and Recovery Friendly Workplaces. In 2024, 20,914 patrons accessed recovery meetings and support groups at the Recovery Clubhouse. Clubhouse members contributed 7,637 hours of volunteer service, with 97% reporting no arrests and 92% feeling more socially connected after six months. A total of 216 members enrolled in a supported employment program, and 92% secured and maintained employment. Additionally, 116 individuals completed Peer Recovery Support Specialist certification training. The Clubhouse also served 1,117 new individuals, offering peer support, resource navigation, and enrollment in SNAP, TANF, and Medicaid. Data from the Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) indicated participant improvement across all National Outcome Measures (NOMs). Over 100 Nevada employers adopted Recovery Friendly Workplace practices, providing anonymous support boxes stocked with peer support cards, Narcan, fentanyl test strips, and medication deactivation pouches. Conclusion: FFR’s programs enhance health through disease management, build community via social connection, and foster purpose through meaningful engagement. Their scalable, strengths-based model offers a promising framework for organizations worldwide seeking to strengthen addiction and mental health recovery systems.

Session 11. The Intersection of Drug Trafficking and Human Trafficking with Healthcare

Drug and human trafficking are two of the fastest growing criminal enterprises, sparing no demographic, culture, or geographical location. These enterprises finance and fuel each other, as evidenced by the polycriminalization seen with their victims. While predominantly seen as law enforcement and social services issues, studies show that approximately 70% – 90% of victims are seen by a healthcare professional while in the “life” with the majority never identified (Chisolm-Straker et al., 2016; Lederer & Wetzel, 2014). Gaps in knowledge and assessment skills persist despite years of sounding the alarm. Due to the inconsistency in prelicensure education and formal trainings; lack of implemented protocols and screening practices/tools; and an incomplete understanding of the root causes of supply and demand, this population is seen yet remains invisible. This session offers a high-level look at the nexus of drug and human trafficking and the scope of these criminal enterprises in the U.S.; will describe the realities of these crises and dispel common myths; explain how traffickers operate and exploit various substance addictions to coerce their victims; and highlight the role of collaboration in both enabling and combating exploitation. The session will also review vulnerabilities, present diverse clinical presentations and red-flag indicators, and ways to identify and respond to a potential victim of trafficking.

Session 12. TBD

Session 13. Reversing Stigma: A Six-Step Framework for Improving Provider-Patient Relationships and Outcomes in Treatment, Education, and Inclusivity

The Reversing Stigma Workshop is an interactive, transformational experience designed to equip professionals with tools to address and overcome both self-stigma and societal stigma in the context of mental health, substance abuse, and recovery. Utilizing Herman Taylor's Six Steps to Reversing Stigma framework, Story, Team, Intentionality, Gratitude, Motivation, and Affirmation participants will gain practical strategies for reframing negative perceptions, building supportive networks, and fostering sustainable recovery. Through evidence-based storytelling, collaborative exercises, and actionable techniques, this workshop encourages professionals to shift their mindset, enhance provider-client relationships, and support individuals in reclaiming their narratives and creating lives filled with purpose and possibility. Reversing stigma is rooted in psychological processes, including the power of storytelling. Research shows that when individuals hear success stories from others who have faced similar challenges, they are more likely to believe in their own potential for recovery. The workshop also incorporates principles of positive psychology, emphasizing the cultivation of positive emotions, thoughts, and behaviors to support long-term growth and well-being.

Francine Bono-Neri, PhD, RN, PNP, FAAN; Nurses United Against Human Trafficking (NUAHT); Jacksonville, Florida

Francine Bono-Neri, PhD, RN, PNP, FAAN, is a pediatric nurse practitioner, academic nurse educator, trained sexual assault nurse examiner, researcher, published author, and invited speaker. She served as a Director-at-Large for ANA-New York, and as President for a local chapter of NAPNAP. Dr. Bono-Neri is the recipient of a prestigious N.E.F. Scholarship. In giving back, she has established an N.E.F. Scholarship to be awarded annually to a master’s or doctoral nursing student pursuing clinical expertise or scholarly work pertaining to human trafficking. Dr. Bono-Neri was recognized at the UN, receiving the 2024 Inspiring Global Nurse Award and 2024 International Ceca Award. She is the Co-founder & President of Nurses United Against Human Trafficking, P.A., a global professional association dedicated to educating, equipping, and empowering healthcare professionals on human trafficking and anti-trafficking measures.

April Casey, RN; The Life Change Center; Reno, Nevada

April has worked in the nursing field for 15 years and has been the primary nurse role for the OTIS program since Jan 2023.

Guy Collins, Lieutenant, BA; Mississippi Bureau of Investigation; Jackson, Mississippi

Guy Collins began his career with the Mississippi Highway Patrol (MHP) in December of 2000. He worked the highways and byways of the state as a uniformed Trooper and city and county streets as a City Policeman and Deputy, respectively, for over twelve years. As a Trooper, he was a member of the MHP SWAT team, the Criminal Interdiction Unit, and the Accident Reconstruction Unit, as well as being a TAC Officer for MHP Patrol School 61, while he was in the uniformed division. In 2015, he began his career in investigations with the Mississippi Highway Patrol Bureau of Investigation (MBI) as a field Special Agent. In addition, he was a member of the Major Crime Unit for MBI. In 2018, he began his career investigating Child Sex Crimes, Human Trafficking and Internet Crimes Against Children. He was tasked with creating the MBI Special Victims Unit (SVU), in 2019, and is currently the Director of that unit. He considers it an honor and a privilege to be working in the capacity for which he is, with MBI.

Rafael Cruzado, PMHNP Student, BSN, RN; Loma Linda University School of Nursing; Loma Linda, California

Rafael Cruzado is a Doctor of Nursing Practice candidate at Loma Linda University School of Nursing, specializing in Psychiatry and Mental Health. He has over 13 years of nursing experience, including 8 years in Critical Care and Cardiac Intensive Care, as well as 5 years in Dialysis and Apheresis Services, all at Loma Linda University Medical Center. His clinical background has fueled his passion for treating individuals with medical complexities who also face co-occurring mental health and substance use issues. He is dedicated to employing integrative, person-centered care to promote widely accessible, evidence-based therapies.

Cathy Dinauer, MSN RN; Executive Director, Nevada State Board of Nursing; Reno, Nevada

Cathy Dinauer is the Executive Director of the Nevada State Board of Nursing. In her role, she has overall responsibility for daily operations of the regulatory agency which licenses/certifies approximately 70,000 RNs, LPNs, CNAs, CRNAs and APRNs in Nevada. Prior to her role as executive director, Ms. Dinauer was the Chief Nursing Officer at a 200 bed facility in Nevada. She has over 40 years experience as a registered nurse in education, emergency nursing and leadership. She is a Fellow, of the National Council of State Boards of Nursing Institute of Regulatory Excellence, a Graduate of the George Washington University post graduate program in Health policy and Media Management, a Graduate of the Advisory Board Academy Fellowship and was the 2017 recepient of the Northern Nevada Nurse of Achievement in Nursing Leadership.

Elizabeth Fildes, EdD, RN, CNE, PHNA-BC, FAAN; Chamberlain Univeristy; Las Vegas, Nevada

Dr. Elizabeth Fildes is a Filipino American nurse leader who demonstrates passion and sustained commitment to improving the health outcomes of Filipino Americans, who suffer from tobacco use and addictions in all its forms. Her systematic approach has included mobilizing healthcare providers to provide brief interventions and therapeutic interventions to improve population health, directly supporting the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control and the WHO Comprehensive Mental Health Action Plan 2030 and Sustainable Development Goals. Her progressive track record spanning decades of addressing chronic disease prevention and substance use disorders control as an educator, researcher, and international collaborator reflects successful ventures to seed ideas for healthcare, public health, and policy stakeholders to secure significant funding, and bring cutting-edge programs to fruition through partnerships. She has implemented programs that have impacted the individual, community, and country levels. She is a Fulbright Specialist, Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing and the International Nurses Society on Addictions, She received her BSN degree at the University of Santo Tomas School of Nursing, Manila, Philippines, her MA degree from Teachers College, New York, and her doctoral degree from Loyola University, Chicago."

John Firestone, MSW, MBA; The Life Change Center; Reno, Nevada

John has worked in the field of opioid use disorder treatment for 25 years. He is the Executive Director of The Life Change Center which is providing services to nearly 1,000 people a day in Northern Nevada. John is also the President of the Nevada Opioid Treatment Association. John is also a CARF surveyor for both Opioid Treatment Programs and outpatient behavioral health programs.

Jolie Jemmott, MSN, RN, PMHNP-BC; Duke University School of Nursing; Durham, North Carolina

Jolie S. Jemmott, MSN, RN, PMHNP-BC is a Ph.D. student entering her third year at Duke University School of Nursing in Durham, North Carolina. She brings a strong foundation in both clinical practice and academic research, with a dedicated focus on advancing mental health care for underserved populations. Jolie began her nursing career at Hampton University, where she earned her BSN in 2019. She went on to receive her MSN from the University of Pennsylvania in 2022, specializing as a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. Her clinical background includes experience in both medical-surgical and psychiatric settings, with the past three years spent working as a nurse practitioner in community-based adult outpatient mental health services. Guided by a strong commitment to mental health equity, Jolie’s research focuses on African American men with opioid use disorders. She is particularly interested in designing culturally responsive, evidence-based interventions to support these individuals and their families. Her broader mission is to reduce opioid use behaviors and improve mental health outcomes in this vulnerable population. Jolie plans to pursue a career in academia as a professor and nurse scientist at a research-intensive university. She aims to lead a program of research that shapes best practices, advances health equity, and uplifts marginalized communities—ultimately contributing to the future of nursing science and mental health care.

Jessica Johnson, MPH; Southern Nevada Health District; Las Vegas, Nevada

Jessica Johnson is a Health Education Supervisor at the Southern Nevada Health District in Las Vegas, NV. In this role, she works to coordinate stakeholders and coalition groups to build capacity and develop programming impacting harm reduction, overdose prevention, infectious disease, and injury prevention. She shapes these initiatives on over a decade of experience in substance use prevention and behavioral health. Jessica is an IC&RC Certified Prevention Specialist (CPS) through the Nevada Behavioral Health Association, a nationally Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES), and a certified instructor for SAMHSA's Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist Skills Training. She holds a Master of Public Health from Oregon State University, a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Lewis & Clark College in Portland, OR, and is currently pursuing her doctorate in public health in Implementation Science at Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health. In her personal time, Jessica enjoys watching her daughter Georgia (6 years) dance and cheering for the Vegas Golden Knights with her husband Tim.

MaryAnne Murray, DNP, EdD, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, CARN-AP; Balance Beams Wellness, PLLC; Ilwaco, Washington

Dr. MaryAnne Murray, DNP, EdD, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, CARN-AP, has worked in the field of addiction for nearly 40 years, beginning as a Chemical Dependency Counselor. She has a small private practice of addiction and general psychiatry, plus she works in a residential treatment program for persons with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental illness. With her husband, she is developing a rural, remote clinic integrating primary care with behavioral health care including psychiatry and substance use disorder treatment. Dr. Murray precepts Nursing graduate students from multiple universities. In this role she welcomes Registered Nurses who are preparing for advancing their careers as Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioners and who are interested in learning about rural health care and/or humane, shameless treatment of patients with substance use disorders.

Sean O' Donnell, MS; Foundation for Recovery; Las Vegas, Nevada

Sean is a person living in recovery from substance use disorder and a certified peer recovery support specialist in Nevada. As Executive Director of Foundation for Recovery he works to expand the integration of recovery support services in existing systems of care, justice, and education striving for a robust recovery-oriented system of care in Nevada.

Elaine Ralph, MSN, RN; Monitoring and Probation Investigator, Nevada State Board of Nursing; Reno, Nevada

Elaine Ralph is currently the Monitoring and Probation Investigator with the Nevada State Board of Nursing providing oversight of the Alternative to Discipline (ATD) program and probation department. In addition, she serves as the Chair for the Disability Advisory Committee, which advises and reports to the Board regarding nurses and certificate holders with disabilities or practice issues which may impact safe nursing care. Prior to her current position, she served as a nurse investigator and has been with the Board for 9 years. She began her nursing career 23 years ago working in various settings including psychiatric and correctional nursing positions and currently holds a Master’s degree in nursing administration. She is a current member of the American Society of Addiction Nursing (ASAN), Association for Addiction Professionals, NAADAC, and is active in the National Organization of Alternative Programs (NOAP).

Jamie Ross, BS; PACT Coalition; Las Vegas, Nevada

Jamie is the Executive Director of the PACT Coalition and is the Co-Leader of SNOAC.

Herman Taylor, LMSW, MPA, CASAC; Middletown, New York

Author of “From Nothing to Almost Something” and “It’s Motivational Minute Time, Reversing Stigma One Minute at a Time,” keynote speaker Herman Taylor, LMSW, MPA, CASAC, brings over 30 years of experience teaching, training, and counseling individuals, transforming lives from mind shift to life shift. Drawing from his lived experiences in mental health, substance abuse, and recovery, Herman is a critically acclaimed, world-renowned speaker, author, teacher, and facilitator. Herman has captivated global audiences with his creative, relevant, and transformational speaking approach. His From Nothing to Almost Something workshop, inspired by his book, has become a cornerstone of his mission to inspire recovery and reduce stigma. Herman educates, inspires, and empowers others through his life stories, using his significant social media presence, keynote speaking engagements, seminars, and conferences as platforms to amplify his message. Herman’s passion, fire, and intense energy are contagious, enabling him to help people create their best lives. An international speaker, Herman is currently touring the country promoting his book, delivering keynotes, and inspiring recovery communities. He served as the keynote speaker at the New York Council From Problem Gamblers and Accra’s Recovery and Wellness Conference in Ghana. He conducted a Recovery Talk at Ghana’s Ankaful Psychiatric Hospital. Herman’s mission is to help individuals create a lifestyle they may believe is possible but aren’t sure how to achieve. Connect with Herman at www.hermantaylorsvision.com.

Kristen Vandenberg, DNP, FNP, PMHNP-BC; University of Colorado Colorado Springs; Avon, Colorado

Dr. Kristen (Kris) Vandenberg, PMHNP-BC, FNP, DNP Dr. Kristen Vandenberg brings over 30 years of expertise in mental health treatment. As a board-certified advanced nurse practitioner with a clinical doctorate, she specializes in psychiatric medication management for individuals across the lifespan. Her dual background in family practice and psychiatric mental health allows her to provide holistic care that addresses both mental and physical health. Dr. Vandenberg obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Virginia and her Master of Science in Nursing Education from Mercer University. She further advanced her education with post-master's certifications as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), as well as a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) from the University of Tennessee. Currently, she serves as the Option Coordinator for the PMHNP program at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs, while also running her private practice, New Beginnings Mental Health, in Vail, Colorado, where she provides comprehensive care to patients of all ages.

Robert Whitten, Lieutenant; Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics; Vicksburg, Mississippi

Lieutenant Robert Whitten has over 17 years of experience in Law Enforcement, over 7 years in Fire Service, and over 3 years as an Emergency Medical Technician. He currently works for the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics. Robert began his law enforcement career with the Vicksburg Police Department in 2007 where he worked patrol for 3 years before becoming a member of the Narcotics Unit. In 2014, Robert began working for the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics where he had the opportunity to work in different divisions, including the Jackson District Office, Pharmaceutical Diversion, and Drug Labs/Hazardous Environment response. Robert has been involved in numerous large-scale and complex investigations from local, state, and federal levels. In 2022, Robert was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant and was tasked with overseeing the equipment and training for the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics Drug Labs/Hazardous Environment response. In 2024, Robert began to oversee Pharmaceutical Diversion for Central Mississippi and helps local, state, or federal agencies with any investigation or coordination of cases involving the loss or theft of Pharmaceuticals. Robert has numerous certifications including Basic and Advanced Pharmaceutical Investigations, Clandestine Lab Operations, Safety and Handling, Haz-Mat Technician Level A/B/C/D, and the FBI Hostage Negotiations Course. In addition to his duties involving Drug Labs and Pharmaceuticals, Robert has been an instructor and invited speaker for numerous Local, State, and Federal organizations and agencies.

Stephanie Woodard, Psy.D., Clinical Associate Professor, University of Nevada, Reno

Stephanie Woodard, Psy.D. is a licensed psychologist, consultant, and a Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Nevada, Reno in the School of Public Health and the School of Medicine. Dr. Woodard earned her Doctor of Clinical Psychology from the PGSP-Stanford Psy.D. Consortium in Palo Alto, California. Her career has focused on population health solutions to improve behavioral health outcomes through the translation of research into policy and practice. Prior to joining the University, Dr. Woodard served as the State of Nevada Department of Health and Human Services state mental health authority (SMHA) and single state authority for substance use disorder treatment, prevention, and recovery (SSA) where she provided visionary leadership for state agency teams, state policymakers, community providers, governmental agencies, community partners, payors, criminal justice, and hospital systems to support behavioral health system transformation. She has served on several national and state level boards and commissions with a focus on behavioral health, including harm reduction and addiction treatment. Currently, her work at the University includes graduate level teaching as well as serving as a co-PI for the Nevada COBRE for Transdisciplinary, Community-Engaged Substance Use Research at the University of Nevada. Her clinical work focuses on co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance use), mindfulness-based practices, and wellbeing/positive psychology.