2014 NCFADS Winter School: February 16-19th


February 16-19th | Embassy Suites in Greensboro, NC

The NC Foundation for Alcohol & Drug Studies is pleased to present the 2014 Winter School, February 16th-20th at the Embassy Suites in Greensboro. We are honored to have this year’s faculty filled with nationally known speakers, researchers and leaders in the field. With poets like Jaki Shelton Green, this year’s Winter School is sure to not only educate, but entertain as well.

NCFADS School
The Foundation is pleased to present the 18th North Carolina Winter School for Alcohol and Drug Studies.  The school schedule and format feature an emphasis on in-depth study and a setting designed to enhance learning and create a spirit of “community” for all participants.

The winter school is designed to serve the needs of various persons working in the field of chemical dependency as well as educators and health care professionals. Outstanding faculty possessing excellent credentials and expertise will present a variety of study tracks. The Winter School will be affiliated with UNC Wilmington for management of certain credit records and other specific services.

NCFADS School Class     NCFADS School Exhibitor     NCFADS School Team
 

Conference Schedule

 

Sunday, February 16, 2014


12:00 – 2:00 p.m. — Registration & Check-In

2:00 – 3:45 p.m. — Mini-Track Sessions

Session BB101: Sex Addiction & Substance Abuse

Session BB002: Veterans & Family Issues: Care & Reimbursement

Session BB003: Ethics and the Art of Boundary Setting

Session BB004: Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT)

Session BB005: SBIRT- What is it, What do I need to know about it & How does it impact me?

Session BB006: Prescription Drugs & Addiction: Pharmacological & Therapeutic Strategies for Diagnosing and Treating

Session BB007: Review: DSM-5, ICD10 Codes, and ASAM Levels

3:45 – 4:00 p.m. — Break

4:00 – 5:45 p.m. — Mini-Track Sessions (Continued…)

 

Monday, February 17, 2014


7:00 – 8:00 a.m. — Breakfast for Hotel Guests

8:00 – 9:00 a.m. — Late Check-In

9:00 – 10:00 a.m. — Opening Session Speaker

10:15 – 11:45 a.m. — Plenary Speaker

12:00 – 1:30 p.m. — Lunch & Plenary Speaker

1:45 – 3:15 p.m. — Main Track Sessions

Session AA001: Mental Health First Aid

Session AA002: Adolescent Substance Use Disorders: Current Perspectives & Treatment Approaches

Session AA003: A Comprehensive Review of DSM-V and ASAM Criteria

Session AA004: Mental Health Disorders Co-Occuring with Addictive Disorders

Session AA005: Process Addiction

Session AA006: Clinical Supervision

Session AA007: Advanced Group Counseling

Session AA008: Responding to Family Violence: Evidence-Based Applications for Practice

3:15 – 3:30 p.m. — Break

3:30 – 5:30 p.m. — Main Track Sessions (Continued)

 

Tuesday, February 18, 2014


7:00 – 8:00 a.m. — Breakfast for Hotel Guests

8:15 – 10:00 a.m. — Main Track Sessions

Session AA001: Mental Health First Aid

Session AA002: Adolescent Substance Use Disorders: Current Perspectives & Treatment Approaches

Session AA003: A Comprehensive Review of DSM-V and ASAM Criteria

Session AA004: Mental Health Disorders Co-Occuring with Addictive Disorders

Session AA005: Process Addiction

Session AA006: Clinical Supervision

Session AA007: Advanced Group Counseling

Session AA008: Responding to Family Violence: Evidence-Based Applications for Practice

10:00 – 10:15 p.m. — Refreshment Break

10:15 – 11:45 a.m. — Main Track Sessions (Continued)

12:00 – 1:30 p.m. — Lunch & Plenary Speaker

1:45 – 3:15 p.m. — Main Track Sessions (Continued)

3:15 – 3:30 p.m. — Break

3:30 – 5:30 p.m. — Main Track Sessions (Continued)

 

Wednesday, February 19, 2014


7:00 – 8:00 a.m. — Breakfast for Hotel Guests

8:15 – 10:00 a.m. — Main Track Sessions

Session AA001: Mental Health First Aid

Session AA002: Adolescent Substance Use Disorders: Current Perspectives & Treatment Approaches

Session AA003: A Comprehensive Review of DSM-V and ASAM Criteria

Session AA004: Mental Health Disorders Co-Occuring with Addictive Disorders

Session AA005: Process Addiction

Session AA006: Clinical Supervision

Session AA007: Advanced Group Counseling

Session AA008: Responding to Family Violence: Evidence-Based Applications for Practice

10:00 – 10:15 p.m. — Refreshment Break

10:15 – 11:45 a.m. — Main Track Sessions (Continued)

12:00 – 1:30 p.m. — Lunch & Plenary Speaker

Main Tracks

 

AA001. Mental Health First Aid

Level: Basic
Instructor: Carlene Wood, MS, LCAS, CCS

Description: Building on SAMHSA’s Strategic Initiative #1 “Prevention of Substance Abuse and Mental Illness “ we are excited to present Mental Health First Aid as the prevention track for the 2014 NCFADS Winter School. Mental Health First Aid is listed on NREPP and is an evidence based mental health promotion adult public education program for universal, selected and indicated population s that reduces stigma, improves mental health literacy, and empowers individuals.

Mental Health First Aid provides participants with knowledge of unique risk factors and warning signs of mental health problems in adults, builds understanding of the importance of early intervention and—most importantly—teaches participants how to help an individual in crisis or experiencing a mental health or substance use challenge. This will be especially important for substance abuse prevention professionals as we continue to move forward with the Affordable Care Act and prevention services are integrated into primary care offices, clinics and other settings.

Participants in Mental Health First Aid will be engaged in an 8 hour interactive training which uses role-playing and simulations to demonstrate how to assess a mental health crisis, select interventions and provide initial assistance, and connect/link people to professional, peer, social and self-help care. Participants will learn a core five-step action plan to offer support to an individual experiencing signs and symptoms of mental illness or an emotional crisis. Millions of people know what to do when an individual chokes; a mental health emergency can be equally dangerous for the individual and others. Participants will receive a Mental Health First Aid certificate after completion of this track.
(Sponsored by NC DMHDDSAS)

 


AA002. Adolescent Substance Use Disorders: Current Perspectives & Treatment Approaches

Level: Intermediate
Instructor: Michael Torch, M.A., MLADC

Description: This Track will review current perspectives on this very difficult treatment population. Effective treatment techniques and approaches will be presented didactically and experientially. Topics will include: developmentally appropriate screening and assessment techniques, biogenetic influences and consequences, neurological functioning and condition progression as well as productive intervention techniques.
Objectives:
Participants will:
1. Gain an understanding of the developmental differences between adolescent and adult substance use disorders.
2. Identify the neurobiological consequences of adolescent chemical use.
3. Gain an understanding of the neurological conditioning that creates cognitive barriers to recovery for this population.
4. Review current data regarding adolescent psychoactive chemical use in North Carolina and some of the current indicators of the consequences of such use.
5. Review currently recognized evidence-based practices with this population and participate in analysis of those practices.
6. Participation in specific skill building exercises that can be helpful with this population.

Workshop Outline:
I. Introduction and Overview
II. Defining the Problem and the Population
III. Adolescence
IV. What is Adolescent Substance Use Disorder
V. What is the prevalence of these disorders among Youth in North Carolina
VI. What is the relationship between AOD Use, Psychiatric Symptoms/Disorders and Delinquency
VII. Adolescent Substance Use impact upon public school education in North Carolina
VIII. Issues of Screening and Assessment
IX. SBIRT with Adolescent Population
X. Issues of diagnosis
XI. What does it take to work with this population-Related Categories of Competency (TAP 21)
A. Knowledge Expectations
B. Skill Expectations
C. Attitude Expectations
XII. Basic Counseling techniques useful with this population
XIII. Strategies for treatment
XIV. Evidence-Based Practice for Adolescent Substance Abuse: North Carolina Adolescent Substance Abuse Treatment Project
XV. Principles of Integrated Treatment with this population
XVI. Specific Treatment Engagement Issues
XVII. Specific Treatment interventions that are effective
XVIII. Strategies of Engaging Youth with Co-occurring disorders on programmatic levels
(Sponsored by: Southeast ATTC)

 


AA003. A Comprehensive Review of DSM-V and ASAM Criteria

Level: Intermediate/Advanced
Instructor: John Femino, MD, FASAM

Description: Diagnostic criteria for abuse and addiction constantly evolve as our understanding of brain based illnesses expand. DSM III-R and DSM IV focused upon consequence and cause, creating a distinction between abuse and dependence. ASAM and NCAODD have proposed diagnostic definitions that are based upon neurobiological functioning rather than a checklist format across dichotomous categories. This workshop will review DSM V and ASAM diagnostic criteria from a neurobiological, genetic and environmental (epigenetic) perspective. The proposed DSM V criteria eliminate the distinction between abuse and dependence and describe a spectrum within a single category of a substance use and addictive disorder. Severity is stratified into mild, moderate and severe categories and by setting and extent of remission. Each drug class is organized into four categories – a use disorder, intoxication, withdrawal and a substance induced disorder. DSM V allows for behavioral problems such as gambling to be included within an addiction category, while deferring internet and sex addiction to appendices requiring further research.
Dr. Femino will present a neurobiological explanation of each criteria within DSM V and ASAM by reviewing the anatomy and pathophysiology of control circuitry and the genetics of reward deficiency syndrome. Diagnosis of co-occurring disorders will be discussed utilizing a six dimensional analysis similar to the ASAM criteria. Case examples will illustrate how neurobiological information changes clinical classification. Screening and diagnostic instruments such as the ASAM criteria, ASI and others will be discussed in relationship to new genetic tests that are being developed.
(Sponsored by: Dominion Diagnostics)

 


AA004. Mental Health Disorders Co-Occuring with Addictive Disorders

Level: Basic
Instructors: Darlene Hopkins, Ph.D., LCAS, CCS

Description: This experiential workshop has been designed to develop the addiction counselor’s skill in facilitating treatment of addicted persons who also struggle with a mental health disorder. The workshop begins with an assessment of current skill level and the learning goals of the counselors in attendance. Working collaboratively, the presenter and participants will move toward meeting those goals possible within the 15 hour framework.
The workshop will meet three primary objectives:
• Understanding and identifying the symptoms which meet the DSM5 criteria of the four most common co-occurring disorders: depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder and PTSD
• Recognizing the complications caused by the accompanying addictive disorders and
• Developing an awareness of the processes of Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as used in the treatment of co-occurring disorders.

 


AA005. Process Addiction

Level: Basic
Instructor: Pamela H. Koretsky, MSW

Description: Process addiction is an addiction to an activity or process, such as but not limited to shopping, gambling, sex, porn even being on the internet or playing video games. These behaviors can be as debilitating as those associated with substance addictions, and they require psychological treatment. Families and friends often have difficulty understanding these conditions, because they believe their loved one should just be able to stop these behaviors that cause negative consequences,. Process addicts face the same problems that people with substance addictions do.

The process of addiction is extremely complex, and it appears to be influenced by a variety of factors. Someone’s mental state, genetics, and social status can all contribute to addictions, as can factors like childhood experiences. Addiction appears to be closely linked to the idea of psychological gratification, in that people learn to indulge in an activity or substance and get some type of pleasure, but the continued activity or behavior in turn creates a state of dependency. There is a part of the brain that fires up in a process addict as they feel a compulsion to continue in order to maintain the perceived feeling. Stopping the activity can cause a depletion of neurotransmitters that create the same dysphoria that a substance addict experiences when they try to abstain.

If doing any behavior despite adverse consequences is the lay definition of any addiction then process addictions fit the bill. In s course we will look at process addiction and treatments through neuroscience, psychosocial and experiential techniques. We will provide the learner with the most comprehensive understanding of the addictions that get most associated with compulsions and which people are more prone to falling prey to these addictive activities and behaviors.
(Sponsored by: Southeast ATTC)

 


AA006. Clinical Supervision

Level: Intermediate/Advanced
Instructor: LoriAnn Stretch, Ph.D., LPCS, ACS

DESCRIPTION: This course is for persons with experience as a clinical supervisor who seek to use evidence-based practices. Participants should have a basic knowledge of clinical supervision theories and techniques. Participants will learn about the central principles of supervision, developmental levels related to clinical supervision, key administrative considerations, legal and ethical issues, cultural competencies, gate-keeping duties, as well as evaluation and assessment techniques. The sessions will be a blend of mini-lectures, experiential activities, small group case studies, and a peer group supervision experience.

 


AA007. Advanced Group Counseling

Level: Advanced
Instructor: Geri Miller, Ph.D.; Steven Sorrells, MA, LCAS, NCC

Description: This course is designed to provide participants with both theoretical and practical information about group counseling. The course will be equally divided into knowledge of group development and experiential activities. Special emphasis will be given during the training on motivational interviewing approaches and techniques.

 


AA008. Responding to Family Violence: Evidence-Based Applications for Practice

Level: Basic
Instructor: Kelly Graves, Ph.D., HSP-P

Description: Family violence is likely one of the most common, and yet challenging, issues that clinicians encounter. Mental health and substance abuse issues highly co-occur with trauma-related experiences and interpersonal violence histories. Regardless of the setting in which they work, clinicians must have a working knowledge of the foundations of trauma and interpersonal violence and tools to effectively assess and treat individuals. Additionally, competency in differential diagnosis, evidence-based models of treatment, and applying treatment in a trauma-informed, culturally-competent framework is needed. This track provides information and tools to understand, assess, and treat problems related to family violence from a trauma-informed perspective.

Learning Objectives

Participants will be able to:
1. Understand the definitions of trauma, trauma-informed care, and the various forms of interpersonal violence
2. Explore the impact of trauma from a cognitive, neurobiological/physiological, clinical, and ecological perspective
3. Be familiar with trauma and its co-morbid conditions and disorders
4. Examine several trauma assessments that can guide treatment
5. Learn how to develop a comprehensive safety plan
6. Be familiar with the most current evidence-based practices in trauma for treating adults, adolescents, children and families.

 


Mini Tracks

 

BB101. Sex Addiction & Substance Abuse

Level: Basic
Instructor: William Bixler, Ph.D.; Greg Hill, MA, LPC, NCC, CSAT

Description: Sex addiction is often present with alcohol or substance abuse. Unfortunately many drug and alcohol counselors have had little or no training in identifying and treating this particular disorder. As a result, sex addiction may fly under the counselor’s radar and go untreated, which will complicate and possibly sabotage the treatment of the co-occurring addiction(s). This presentation will provide a basic understanding of the etiology and treatment of sex addiction, including the roles of family dynamics, trauma, attachment issues, and neurobiology in the formation of the disorder. We will offer criteria to enable one to accurately determine if a sex addiction is present. In addition, we will look at addiction interaction, including an explication of the interaction map and ten types of sex addiction/other addiction interaction. Lastly, we will look at treatment tools and strategies to assist counselors in addressing this multi-faceted and exceptionally challenging problem.

 


BB002. Veterans & Family Issues: Care & Reimbursement

Level: Basic
Instructor: Sandy Ellingson, LPC-S, LCAS, CCS

Description: This presentation will cover the unique situation many military members, their families, and new Veterans find themselves in after Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Also covered in the presentation will be special populations of Veteran (older , women, Traumatic Brain injured, homeless, and substance using). I will also discuss the changes that “Public Law 109-461, Veterans Benefits, Health Care, and Information Technology Act of 2006” has made in the way counselors can provide care to military members & family and veterans both in the private sector and the VA system. This will also include TRICARE and its coverage for mental health.
(Sponsored by: Charles George VA Medical Center)

 


BB003. Ethics and the Art of Boundary Setting

Level: Basic
Instructor: Terri S. Cook, MA, LCAS, LPC, CCS

Description: This presentation provides an overview of ethics for staff of all levels working in the substance abuse profession. Discussion will focus on boundary traps that lead to unintentional ethical violations. Many ethical dilemmas arise form an intent to help with a failure in attending to how our professional behavior can cross boundaries. Crossing boundaries has a negative impact on client care and the ability to maintain a therapeutic environment. This session will provide a framework of thinking about healthy boundaries and ethical issues for all staff who have client contact. Information will be presented in a discussion format with case studies drawn from participants experience.

Goals:
• To identify potential ethical dilemmas
• To identify and understand healthy versus unhealthy personal and professional boundaries
• To provide a framework for thinking about ethics on a daily basis
• To increase knowledge of ethical principles

 


BB004. Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT)

Level: Basic
Instructors: Elaine Delise, MS

Description: Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) is a form of self acupressure, a revolutionary blending of western psychotherapy with Chinese medicine that uses the body’s meridian system to treat an emotional issue that could otherwise take years to unravel with talk-based therapies.
Through ‘Thought Field Therapy’s’ understanding of the body/mind connection through biofeedback lead us to understand how a thought goes through the bodies energy system as ‘bio-information’ into the very cells of the body to create states of calm to states of total disruption. It has been proven that our perceptions, beliefs, and emotions change the very frequency of our cellular structure. these perceptual and energetic disturbance actually start changing our healthy DNA code into unhealthy DNA codes that can lead to major health issues.
EFT will work for virtually any emotional or physical issue on self or can be used as a surrogate for others. The process takes 5-15 minutes to apply with no tools or equipment necessary. The process incorporates a segment of EMDR to release the issue physically from the body. You will still have a memory of an event, however you will not have the negative emotional/physical reaction to that memory. This technique can be used for any issue from ADD, addictions, anger, anxiety, childhood traumas, depression, fears, phobias, grief, guilt, obsessional thinking, pain management, PTSD, traumas, stress, weight management, and so much more.
The last 30 minutes of the class will be teaching a form of ‘Self-Hypnosis’ to couple with the EFT. The technique will give the client more tools to employ by just using their thought process, when they have no time or space to rebalance self with the ‘tapping’.

 


BB005. SBIRT- What is it, What do I need to know about it & How does it impact me?

Level: Basic
Instructor: Connie C. Mele, MSN, RN, LCAS, PMHCNS-BC, CARN-AP

Description: SBIRT stands for Screening, Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment. It is a comprehensive, integrated, public health approach to the delivery of early intervention and treatment services for persons with substance use disorders, as well as those at risk of developing these disorders. Primary care centers, hospital emergency rooms, trauma centers and other community settings provide opportunities for early intervention with at-risk substance users before more severe consequences occur.
It is important as a substance abuse professional that you are knowledgeable about SBIRT and how you can assist agencies in your community to understand the essence of SBIRT and why it is imperative that they begin utilizing it.

 


BB006. Prescription Drugs & Addiction: Pharmacological & Therapeutic Strategies for Diagnosing and Treating

Level: Intermediate
Instructor: Jason ZW Powers, MD, MAPP

Description: Addiction is poorly understood. Thanks to decades of sound research, we know much and more about the chronic, progressive, and fatal disease. However, there is an element of choice, and the symptoms of the disease are bothersome, casting doubt on an already murky picture.

Prescription medications add yet another confounding variable into the dialogue. Medications that are produced by pharmaceutical companies, prescribed by doctors, and filled by professional pharmacists are supposed to be benign, right? Aren’t all medications safe? The obvious answers to these rhetorical and sarcastic questions are unfortunately not obvious to millions of people, especially kids, the most vulnerable population.

Children ages 12-17 are more likely to try Xanax or Vicoden before marijuana or alcohol. Indeed, the times have changed – prescription drug abuse is an epidemic the world has never seen before and the U.S. leads the charge, using over 95% of the world’s hydrocodone usage, for example.

This course will review the science of addiction, including development and effective treatments. We will also concentrate on the unique attributes of prescription medication addiction.
Educational Objectives
• Understand what addiction is and what it is not.
• Review neurophysiology of addiction and drugs of abuse (including prescription medications).
• Identify effective treatments and pathways to increase recovery and enhance well-being.
• Improve understanding of safe and appropriate use of prescription medications.
(Sponsored by: Dominion Diagnostics)

 


BB007. Review: DSM-5, ICD10 Codes, and ASAM Levels

Level: Intermediate
Instructor: Frank Barker, LPC, MAC, CS, CSAT; and Diane Diver, MBA, CACII, LMSW

Description: There are some major changes coming in the field as we know it. This open discussion and training will define for you the DSM-5 changes, the proposed ASAM changes, what that means to payer sources and clinicians, and the future of our workforce. We will talk about the effect on day to day services and where we go from here. This is the single biggest change in our field since identifying the disease concept.
(Sponsored by: McLeod Addictive Disease Center)

 


BB008. Prevention of Substance Abuse and Mental Illness: Shared Risk and Protective Factors

Level: Basic
Instructor: Kimberly Lesane Ratliff, MA; Susan Robinson, MED

Description: SAMHSA has made the prevention of substance abuse and mental illness the #1 priority of their eight strategic initiatives. It is important to understand the connection between the two disorders. This track will provide participates with knowledge of the shared risk and protective factors of substance abuse and mental illness Recent data from SAMHSA revealed that By 2020, mental and substance use disorders will surpass all physical diseases as a major cause of disability worldwide and that half of all lifetime cases of mental and substance use disorders begin by age 14 and three fourths by age 2 extremely important to understand risk and protective factors to make progress for this priority.
This session will equip participants with a basic understanding of the shared risk factors and protective factors and examples of how to use them to educate the community and other stakeholders that can be used in appropriate and effective manners.
(Sponsored by NC DMHDDSAS)

 


— Meet Our Keynote Speakers —

NCFADS Winter School Speaker, Frank Barker
Frank Barker

NCFADS Winter School Speaker, Diane Diver
Diane Diver

NCFADS Winter School Speaker, Melissa Warner
Melissa Warner

NCFADS Winter School Speaker, Mary Mather
Mary Mather

NCFADS Winter School Speaker, Jaki Shelton
Jaki Shelton

NCFADS Winter School Speaker, Brian Coon
Brian Coon

 

— Speaker Bios —

 


Frank Barker, LPC, MAC, CS, CSAT

Mr. Barker is Chief Executive Officer and Executive Clinical Director for Recovery Place. Frank is a licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Georgia, Master Addictions Counselor, Certified Sex Therapist, Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist and Substance Abuse Professional. He works with the Medical, Nursing, Dental and Pharmacy Boards for recovering professionals and is recognized by local media as an expert in substance abuse, trauma, and codependency.
 
 


Brian Coon, MA, CSAC

Mr. Coon is Pavillon’s Director of Clinical Program Services with over 20 years experience in addressing co-occurring chemical dependency and mental health disorders. His clinical background is in cognitive-behavioral psychology and evidence-based treatment of co-occurring disorders. With a passion for teaching, he has also served as either guest lecturer or part-time faculty to undergraduate and graduate students in psychology, counseling, nursing and drug and alcohol counselor training programs.
 
 


Diane Diver, CAC II, LMSW

Ms. Diver has over fourteen years of experience in the behavioral health field and twenty years of experience in the medical field. She has held top posts for companies such as Bayer Consumer Care and Mead Johnson Nutritionals, a division of Bristol Myers Squibb. She is a Certified Addiction Counselor II and a Licensed Master Social Worker and is currently responsible for the day-to-day clinical operations at Recovery Place as well as the Quality Assurance function.
 
 


John Femino, MD, FASAM

Dr. Femino graduated from Brown University School of Medicine and completed residency in internal medicine and post-doctoral fellowships in clinical psychopharmacology and drug and alcohol abuse. He was the recipient of the Career Teacher in Alcohol and Drug Abuse grant at Brown University and was one of the first faculty members at the Brown University Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, teaching in clinical faculty positions for the last 20 years. Dr. Femino has been on the board of directors of the Rhode Island Council on Alcoholism and has been the substance abuse consultant to major insurance companies in RI. In 1996, he founded Meadows Edge Recovery Center, a state licensed substance abuse treatment program and multidisciplinary medical and mental health group practice in North Kingstown, RI. Dr. Femino is board certified in internal medicine, received ASAM certification in 1986, was recertified in 2000 as an MRO and obtained fellowship status. Other major efforts have been in the areas of videotaping production and development of educational materials. One of the productions won a cable ACE award and 3 of the videotapes have been sold through secondary school educational distributors. He is a frequent lecturer and educational consultant on the neurobiology of addiction and received a grant from the NE-ATTC and CSAT to produce an educational curriculum for high school students, entitled “The Academy Curriculum: The Biology of Addiction.”
 
 


Jaki Shelton Green

Ms. Green is a world renowned poet lecturer, speaker and writer. She was selected as the first NC Piedmont Laureate and received The Sam Ragan Award for contributions to the Fine Arts of North Carolina. As the 2003 recipient of the North Carolina Award for Literature (the highest award the state can bestow for significant contributions in science, literature, fine arts, and public service) she was formally inducted into the prestigious North Caroliniana Society. She facilitates workshops and trainings around the world and is featured commentator for G.R.I.T.S. Anthology (Girls Raised in the South) and served as the final judge for the distinguished Lucille Clifton Poetry Award.
 
 


Greg Hill, MA, LPC, NCC, CSAT

Mr. Hill is a licensed professional counselor who specializes in treating clients who struggle with sexual addiction. Greg has been in private practice since 2007 and also works with partners and families of sex addicts. Recently, he and Dr. William Bixler opened the Center for Emotional and Sexual Health located in Cary, NC. They can be contacted at 919-466-0770.
 
 


Mary Jo Mather

Ms. Mather is the Executive Director of the International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium, Inc. (IC&RC) and the Pennsylvania Certification Board (PCB). She currently serves on the Advisory Councils of the National Hispanic & Latino ATTC and the Central East ATTC. As Executive Director of PCB, she oversees all aspects of the certification process including the development of new credentials and serving as ethics investigator in disciplinary proceedings.
 
 


Geri Miller, Ph.D.

Dr. Miller, Diplomat in Counseling Psychology, American Board of Professional Psychology, is a Full Professor in the Department of Human Development and Psychological Counseling (Clinical Mental Health Counseling Track) at Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina. In North Carolina, Dr. Miller is a Licensed Psychologist, a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist, and a Substance Abuse Professional Practice Board Certified Clinical Supervisor. She has also received a Certificate of Proficiency in the Treatment of Alcohol and other Psychoactive Substance Use Disorders from the American Psychological Association College of Professional Psychology. Dr. Miller has worked in the counseling profession since 1976 and in the addictions field since1979. Dr. Miller has published and presented research on counseling. In 2010 she published a third edition of her book on addiction counseling, Learning the Language of Addiction Counseling, with Wiley Press.
 
 


Jason Powers, MD, DABAM, DABFM

Dr. Powers is certified by The American Boards of Addiction Medicine and Family Medicine, and will complete his Masters in Applied Positive Psychology at UPENN in May 2013. He serves as the Chief Medical Officer of San Cristobal, Spirit Lodge and Right Step. He also manages an addiction medicine practice, works as an interventionist and is the author of When The Servant Becomes The Master (2012), and Positive Recovery, due out in the fall of 2013, by Central Recovery Press.
Dr. Powers was voted one of Houston’s “Top 50 Doctors” for three years running by H Texas magazine. In 2008, he was awarded the Compassion Award by Sierra Tucson.
Dr. Powers is married to Amy and has three children: Sarah (10), Danyel (7), and Mia (2). He enjoys camping, yoga, writing and teaching.
 
 


Susan Robinson, M.ED, Mental Health Administrator, Division of MH/DD/SAS

Ms. Robinson is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in Special Education & Developmental Disabilities. Her experiences range from an instructor in child development & special education; to early intervention specialist; to child mental health program coordinator; to program head in Policy & Services Branch – Child and Family Services Section; to her current position in the Community Policy Management Section. She has presented at numerous conferences and trainings and contributed to many publications.
 
 


Steve Sorrells, MA,LCAS,NCC

Mr. Sorrells has a Master’s degree in Clinical Counseling from Appalachian State University. He has worked as a therapist at Recovery Ventures Corporation since 2008 and has been the Clinical Director since 2011. Previously, he worked as a Crisis Counselor at New River Behavioral Health Care. He has extensive experience facilitating groups in residential and out-patient settings as well as doing individual therapy. In previous career experience, he worked as a community economic developer, a business executive in corporate America, a small business owner and an elementary school teacher.
 
 


Michael Torch, MA, MLADC

Mr. Torch is an addiction treatment provider with over 35 years experience. Originally, licensed as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor and Licensed Clinical Supervisor by the State of New Hampshire in 1985. He was recognized by the New Hampshire Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor’s Association in 1990 as “Counselor of the Year” and in 2002 with its “Life Time Achievement Award”. Currently providing outpatient counseling and behavioral health consultation within an agency in New Hampshire. He serves as a member of the US Probation Service’s New England Critical Incident Stress Management Team and assisted the Boston Police Department’s Peer Support Unit with debriefings after the Boston Marathon Bombings. As the Senior Technology Transfer Specialist for the New England Addiction Technology Transfer Center- at Brown University he provides evidence-based practice adoption consultation/training as well as technology transfer consultation. Michael has been a trainer of alcohol and drug counselors for over 25 years with extensive experience treating chemically dependent adolescents, trauma victims, and individuals under the supervision of the criminal justice system. His professional experience includes practice in public schools, correctional environments, treating law enforcement personnel, inpatient chemical dependency programs, outpatient practice and as a consultant to a First Nation Healing Program.
 
 


William Bixler, Ph.D.

Dr. Bixler is a North Carolina-licensed psychologist who recently relocated to the Triangle from Va. where he had been in private practice for 25 years. He graduated from the Fuller Graduate School of Psychology with an M.A. in theology and Ph.D. in clinical psychology. Bill specializes in treating sex addiction and has received training from Dr. Patrick Carnes, one of the foremost experts in sex addiction research and treatment. As a result of completing an extensive training program offered by the International Institute for Trauma & Addiction Professionals (founded by Dr. Carnes) he has been designated a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT). He and fellow presenter, Greg Hill, CSAT, have recently opened the Center for Emotional & Sexual Health in Cary to treat sex addicts and their families.
 
 


Elaine Christine Delise

Ms. Delise has a BS in Elementary Education; MS in Psychology (Clinical); MS in Analysis (Object Relations); MS in Hypnotherapy: American Board, Transpersonal; Reiki Master; EFT under Rodger Callahan; and EFT under Gary Craig.
 
 


Sandy Ellingson, LPC-S, LCAS, CCS

Ms. Ellingson has 19 years in the counseling field. With a Masters Degree in Counseling she entered the US Army to serve Solders and their families as a Behavioral Specialist. After being injured she left the Army and began a love hate relationship with the Veterans Administration. For the last 6 years she has worked at the Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville, NC. Her position as Mental Health counselor in the Substance Abuse Residential Rehabilitation Program allows her to work with Veterans and their families.
 
 


Kelly Graves, Ph.D.

Dr. Graves is the Executive Director of the Center for Behavioral Health and Wellness at North Carolina A&T State University and an Associate Professor in the Department of Human Development and Services. Dr. Graves received her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, completed her clinical internship at Emory University School of Medicine, and is a licensed Clinical Psychologist in the state of North Carolina. She has over 15 years of experience in working with community-based programs to bridge the gap between research and practice. She focuses on risk and resiliency among children exposed to violence and trauma across services systems (law enforcement, mental health, social services, and juvenile justice), developing trauma-informed systems, the overlap between mental health and substance abuse, positive youth development, and ensuring evidence-based practices in community settings. She is an accomplished scholar with dozens of peer-reviewed publications and recently published her book, Responding to Family Violence: A Research-Based Guide for Therapists, with Routledge Publishing.
 
 


Pamela H. Koretsky, MSW

Ms. Koretsky is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Psychotherapist in Private Practice where she provides individual and family psychotherapy for adolescents through the geriatric population in helping to facilitate successful transitions in life. Pam has been contracted by several national companies to provide Critical Incident Stress Debriefing and Management, grief counseling and Critical Incident Response as well as health fairs and workshops under EAPs in the Triangle area. Her prior experiences include; being a consultant for Raleigh Community Hospital Behavioral Health Services in Raleigh where she provided on-site visits, patient observations, staff interviews, physician surveys and community resource calls. Pam has provided training in: “How to Manage Stress in a Stressful Environment or How to Avoid Burn-out in the Health Care Field”; “Using Phototherapy Techniques as a Tool in Psychotherapy”; “Identifying and Preventing Aggressive Behavior when working with Memory Impaired Residents/Adults”; “Depression in the Elderly: Identification and Treatment”; “Caring for Memory Impaired Residents: A Behavioral Approach”; Coping with the emotional aspects of the loss of eyesight at the Mini Center for the Division of Blind Services, Wake County, State of North Carolina; Spoke for North Carolina Mental Health all over the state on Mood Disorders in the seniors population during 1997; Developed and facilitated numerous in-service trainings on mental health issues in South Florida from 1990 to 1996 for several hospitals. Article published in the Afterimage Magazine on “ Using Photo Therapy Techniques with the Senior Population” 2001.
 
 


Darlene Hopkins, Ph.D., LPCS, LCAS, CCS

Dr. Hopkins has been an addictions counselor for 25 years. She established the Center for Personal Development at Methodist University and continues to serve as Clinical Director. This department in the division of Student Affairs houses counseling, psychological, prevention and disability services. Dr. Hopkins trained in Motivational Interviewing with Bill Miller at the University of New Mexico. She teaches Abnormal Psychology, Counseling and Developmental Psychology to undergraduate social work and psychology students at Methodist University and hosts annual graduate student internships. She has served for the past four years as the South Central Regional Vice President of Addictions Professionals of NC and teaches several continuing education courses for addictions counselors.
 
 


Connie C. Mele, MSN,RN,LCAS,PMHCNS-BC,CARN-AP

Ms. Mele has worked in the field of substance abuse since 1979. She has held various job positions in the field of addictions, from a staff nurse in a Methadone Clinic, a Director of Nursing at an inpatient treatment facility, to implementing a new inpatient program, and an outpatient behavioral health clinic. She has spent the last thirteen years in the Public Mental Health, Substance Abuse and Developmental Disabilities system. She just completed her term as the President of the North Carolina Foundation for Alcohol and Drug Studies Board. She received the International Nurses Society on Addictions, Administration and Management Award in 2001. She received the Jody Kellermann award in 2005 from The Chemical Dependency Center and she received the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill, Charlotte Chapter’s Mental Health Professional of the Year. She received the International Nurses Society on Addictions President Award in 2011.
She holds a Master’s Degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from UNCC and did all of her course work in substance abuse. She is certified as a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing and as an Advanced Practice Certified Addictions Nurse. She is also a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist and she is a board certified Nurse Executive.

 
 


Kimberly Lesane Ratliff

Ms. Ratliff is currently employed as the Substance Abuse Prevention Block Grant Manager with the Division of Mental Health Developmental Disabilities and Substance Abuse Services. Where she is responsible for the programmatic and fiscal management of the substance abuse prevention set-aside for the federally funded Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Block Grant Kimberly received a BA in Psychology from Johnson C. Smith University, MA in Counseling from Webster University and a MA in Human Resource Development from Webster University. She has experience in mental health and substance abuse counseling as well as substance abuse prevention. She is trained in several of the Evidence Based Practices for Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment as well as Mental Health.
 
 


Tereia Cook Shirley, MA, LCAS, LPC, CCS

Ms. Shirley has been an addictions professional since 1987. She has worked in both public and private practice in clinical and administrative capacities. She is currently the owner of The AC Group Inc and also works with Wake Forest Baptist Health in the addictions program. She is chair of the ethics committee with Addiction Professionals of North Carolina and past President of the NC Foundation for Alcohol and Drug Studies.
 
 


LoriAnn Stretch, Ph.D., LPCS, ACS

Dr. Stretch is currently a Lead Faculty member in the CACREP program at Walden University, and earned a PhD in Counselor Education with a minor in Child and Adolescent Psychology from NC State University and a MS in Community and College Counseling with a specialization in Special Education from Longwood College in VA. She was awarded the first Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor license in NC in recognition of her advocacy work in NC and has served as the Chair, Treasurer and Ethics Chair for the NC Board of Licensed Professional Counselors (NCBLPC). Dr. Stretch has worked in a variety of counseling work settings including vocational rehabilitation, domestic violence, court advocacy, college/university counseling, disability services, Level III foster care group homes, child support services, clinical supervision, and private practice. She is trained as a Dialectical Behavioral Therapist and is an advanced practitioner of sandplay and play therapies.
 
 


Melissa Lee Warner, Ph.d.

Dr. Warner is Chief Medical Officer for Lakeview Health. Dr. Warner is known for her cutting edge lectures on the “The Big Book” and has a special interest in non-intoxicating approaches to pain management for recovering patients, as well as nicotine sobriety. Passionate about health, wellness and spiritual development, Dr. Warner is a Diplomat of the American Board of Family Medicine and the American Board of Addiction Medicine.
 
 


Carlene Wood, MS LCAS CCS

Ms. Wood is Vice President, Region 4 Justice Services, Partnership for a Drug-Free NC, Inc. where she provides administrative and clinical supervision for a variety of behavioral health services that work with criminal justice offenders in 24 counties. She is also the Presiding Minister, International Christian Community Churches. She graduated from Western Carolina University: M.S. Human Resource Development/Counseling May 1995; University of Central Florida: B.A. Public Administration/Criminal Justice /August 1980; Columbia Presbyterian Seminary, Atlanta GA: Certificate in Spiritual Development May 2011; Samaritan Institute of Religious Studies: Clergy Credentialing Program Ordained November 1998.
 
 

Curriculum Credit Information

The Winter School has been designed to serve the needs of many professional groups. Up to three types of school credit are included in the school cost. All choice(s)of credit must be indicated on the registration form during the pre-registration period

Substance Abuse Professional Credit (SAC)

Application for approval has been made to the North Carolina Substance Abuse Professional Certification Board for up to 23 hours of certification/re-certification credit for each eligible participant.

Teacher Renewal Credit (PSP)

Individual schedules must be designed for 23 contact hours to be awarded 2.3 units of teacher renewal credit (PSP). To receive maximum PSP credits, participants must attend all classes and special events, totaling 23 hours, in which they are officially registered. TEACHERS PLEASE NOTE that you must get prior approval of this event from your school system before registering.

Continuing Education Units (CEU’S)

Individual schedules must be designed for a maximum of 23 contact hours for participants to be eligible for 2.3 CEU’s. To receive maximum CEU credit, participants must attend all classes and events, totaling 23 hours, in which they are officially registered.

National Board Certified Counselors (NBCC)

The N.C. Foundation for Alcohol and Drug Studies is an approved NBCC Provider (ACEP) and may offer NBCC approved clock hours for events or programs that meet NBCC requirements. Programs for which NBCC clock hours will be awarded are identified within the NCFADS Winter School catalog. The ACEP is solely responsible for all aspects of this school offering. NBCC (provider number 5673). We adhere to NBCC Continuing Education guidelines. As a minimum, each individual schedule must be comprised of a curriculum track representing 15 hours. Participants must attend all track classes to receive the 15-hour track maximum. Attendance in all other sessions will add 8 additional hours to the total number of NBCC credit hours awarded. (NBCC is also appropriate for those seeking LPC credits.)

Appropriate credit for the Winter School will be awarded after eligibility has been determined from attendance records and in conjunction with the above stated attendance requirements.

IMPORTANT Registration Information

PLEASE READ THIS CAREFULLY: YOU MUST MAKE YOUR OWN HOTEL ARRANGEMENTS SEPARATE FROM THE SCHOOL REGISTRATION. TO GET THE SPECIAL “RATE OF $79 + TAXES” YOU MUST CALL THE EMBASSY SUITES DIRECTLY: (336)668-4535. HOUSING DEADLINE IS JANUARY 27, 2014.

NCFADS School Registration Information Registration has now closed.

First, use the online registration form to complete the registration process and submit to NCFADS by 5 p.m., February 7, 2014.

Second, all Full-time Students or Mini-Track only Students , must validate the registration process at check-in between noon – 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 16, 2014, at the Embassy Suites, Greensboro, NC. Track/Plenary Student enrollees may check-in from 8:00 – 9:00 a.m. on Monday, February 17, 2014. Early enrollment is suggested since space is limited and courses are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. (Online registration is preferred and may expedite the process.)

For multiple registrations, a registration form for each participant must be completed and accompanied by payment and/or official authorizations. Photocopies of the registration form will be accepted. If you are registering for someone else, make certain all pertinent information is forwarded to him or her.

Check-In & Check-Out Process

All mini-tracks will meet from 2:00-5:45 p.m. on Sunday afternoon, February 16, 2014. Main tracks and plenary sessions begin on Monday morning, February 17, 2014, and continue until 11:45 a.m., Wednesday, February 19, 2014. You will only attend one track and one mini-track during the school. All Full-time Students (FTO) will be automatically registered for the opening session, plenary sessions and closing luncheon. The registration system will inform you of the availability of your track/mini-track topic selections as you register. Early registration is encouraged. Use of our online registration process is encouraged to expedite your registration. Your confirmation email indicating topic assignments (based upon space availability at the time of registration) will be sent to you immediately after your pre-registration. All Full-time Student participants (as well as Mini-Track Students) are expected to check in between noon and 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 16, 2014, and attend the mini-track topic session at 2:00 p.m.

Those who register only for Track/Plenary Only Sessions may check in on Monday morning, February 17th from 8:00 – 9:00 a.m.; then attend an opening session followed by the first track session. Embassy Suites Housing should be available by 3:45 p.m. (break time) for those staying on site. No dinner meals have been scheduled. If you need assistance concerning registration, please call the NCFADS office at 910-799-6594.

Helpful Tips

Since early registration is necessary to improve your chances of getting your top track choices, the following suggestions are offered:
If you plan to stay at the Embassy Suites, you must call directly to the hotel to get the negotiated rate. Identify yourself as a participant in the NCFADS Winter School.

At the earliest possible date after receiving word the registration process is open, complete the online registration form. Online registration for all classes is preferred.

Do not assume that your registration form will be processed by your accounting office or an administrative official before the deadline date. To avoid delays, submit your form online to the Foundation office and fax or email a short, written approval statement from your supervisor while the agency is processing payment. In most cases, this can save you 3 to 4 weeks in getting registered. Fax#910-799-9550; mailing address NCFADS, PO Box 4024, Wilmington, NC, 28406.; email: ncfadsregistrar@bellsouth.net

Review your completed registration form to assure the following:

Your track & mini-track choices have been indicated
All credit option choices have been selected
All demographic information is clearly printed or typed. A correct email address is necessary for receiving your credit letters following the school.
Payment or an authorization statement by an agency official or an approved purchase order or scholarship authorization must accompany each completed registration form.
Participants seeking special accommodations due to a disability must contact the registration office by January 1, 2014.

Student Responsibilities

As a student of the school sponsored by the North Carolina Foundation for Alcohol and Drug Studies, you are requested to read and abide by the following statements:
You should act as a professional when dealing with staff or others who are registered for the school.

The use of alcohol and/or illicit drugs or the abuse of non-prescription drugs while at the school will not be tolerated. If such conduct is observed, NCFADS officials will ask for assistance from local law enforcement personnel. If the student is charged with a violation or continues to demonstrate behaviors detrimental to others or is considered disruptive to the mission of the school, NCFADS will immediately ask the student to leave the school; and will report the incident to the students’ employer.

The use of physical means to settle a dispute will not be tolerated. If such conduct is used by a student(s), the NCFADS staff will ask for assistance by local law enforcement personnel. If the student is charged with a violation or continues to demonstrate behaviors detrimental to others or is considered disruptive to the mission of the school, NCFADS will immediately ask the student to leave the school; and will report the incident to the students’ employer.

At the time of pre-registration, you should reveal to the NCFADS staff any serious medical condition which might cause problems while at the school. This will ensure that, in the event of an emergency, you may be treated with appropriate care by EMT or other medical professionals.

Students, who, for what ever reason are taken to a local hospital or medical clinic for treatment, must arrange for any needed transportation.

At the time of pre-registration, you will be asked to furnish the name of a family member or another designee as a contact person in case of an emergency.

At the time of pre-registration, you will be asked for a current email and mailing address. The accuracy of these addresses is necessary for receiving your credit letter after the school.

Embassy Suites, Greensboro, NCThe NCFADS Board chose the Embassy Suites as its 2014 Winter School site because it offers such great meeting rooms as well as excellent accommodations for those who need housing. The number of available rooms will meet our enrollment needs quite well and the negotiated price for participant housing is outstanding.

The Embassy Suites is located in the center of the Triad, just 6 miles from the Piedmont Triad International Airport at the intersection of Interstate 40 and Highway 68. We are the premier center for hospitality in the area, with a full range of services to meet every traveler’s needs. Our 219 , all-suite property has an elegant 7-story atrium where the fresh scent of lush greenery fills the senses. Water cascades from a luxurious fountain and sunlight radiates through the skylights overhead.

Each suite is beatifically decorated with a private bedroom and spacious living room. All of our suites have a refrigerator, microwave oven, individual cup coffee maker, two flat screen televisions, two telephones, high speed Internet and a very functional dining/work table with ergonomic chair. Choose a suite with 2 double beds or 1 king bed; in addition each suite is equipped with a queen size sleeper sofa for extra guests.

Since the NCFADS fee does NOT include housing, a special daily rate of $79 + tax has been negotiated with the Embassy Suites. This room rate includes breakfast on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday mornings, plus a complimentary reception Sunday, Monday & Tuesday evenings.

All housing arrangements must be made directly with the Embassy Suites.

Please call 336-668-4535 to make your hotel reservation, or book online at:
http://embassysuites.hilton.com/en/es/groups/personalized/G/GSOGBES-FAD-20140216/index.jhtml?WT.mc_id=POG.

Housing deadline for the special rate is January 27, 2014

Special Thanks to our 2014 NCFADS Winter School Sponsors

Dominion Diagnostics

Pavillon

Pavillon

ICRC

Lakeview Health

ATTC

McLeod Addictive Disease Center

McLeod Addictive Disease Center

Fellowship Hall

McLeod Addictive Disease Center