Minnesota Association for Children’s Mental Health

Building Workforce Resilience: Reflective Practice Supervision to Enhance Organizational Health
2025-04-09
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April 9, 2025 | 9:00 – 11:00 am CST | 2 CEHs | $30 | Live Webinar | Reflective Supervision
This workshop is expected to be approved for 2 hours of Supervision content
Description: Reflective Practice Supervision, delivered in individual and group formats, has been shown to offer a critical buffer for staff of many different roles and professional backgrounds to secondary traumatic stress and other workplace stressors, while increasing staff retention and engagement. Participants will gain concrete tools for Reflective Practice implementation and will help participants offer this powerful support within their organizations.
Reflective Practice has been found to be an effective model of supervision across many fields in health care, law, and mental health and behavioral health. Anyone providing supervision can benefit from this training, and those who have advanced training in clinical supervision will benefit as well.
Level: Intermediate | For: Anyone Providing Staff Supervision | Ages Addressed: All
About the Presenter
Sarah Lockhart, MSW, LICSW – Director of Mental Health, Northeast Youth and Family Services (NYFS)
Angela Lewis-Dmello, MSW, LICSW – President & CEO of Northeast Youth and Family Services (NYFS)

Developmental Repair and the Intersection of Culture, Race, Trauma, and Systems
2025-03-07
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March 7, 2025 | 12:30-3:30pm CST | 3 CEHs | $45 | Live Webinar | Infant & Early Childhood Focus | Cultural Competency
This workshop is expected to be approved for 1 hour of clinical content, 3 hours of cultural competency content & 3 hours of DEVELOP Credit
Description:
In order to help a young person heal from toxic stress we must hold in mind the core components of Developmental Repair (stress biology, attachment, family culture) while honoring the family and community’s experience of culture, race, and interactions with systems. In 2017, Washburn Center and Northside Achievement Zone began formally training NAZ partners in the model bringing Dr. Anne Gearity’s concepts of joining and making sense to early childhood spaces. Each provider who uses these tools to increase emotional and behavioral regulation brings their own lived experiences to the relationship with young children and their families. When providers and caregivers are grounded in the principals of Developmental Repair and trust each other’s intentions, we can work within and across cultures to serve the various needs of our scholars/clients.
Learning Objectives:

Understand how unlearning assumptions about family culture can lead to better connections.
Identify ways adult/provider’s lived experience impacts how they take a child’s perspective.
Learn how the intersection of racialized trauma, development, family, and system impact scholar/client well-being.

Level: Intermediate | For: Early Childhood Professional or Educator | Ages Addressed: Prenatal through 6 years
About the Presenter
Chantell Johnson, MSW Candidate – Community Wellness Program Manager & Family Academy Facilitator, Northside Achievement Zone
Lauren W. Nietz, MSW, LICSW – Director of the Training Institute and Clinical Development, Washburn Center for Children

RECORDING: Introduction to Pathological Demand Avoidance/Persistent Drive for Autonomy
2024-12-02
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Expires December 2, 2024| 2 CEHs | $30 | Live Webinar | Clinical Content
This workshop is approved for 2 hours of clinical content
Description:
This course is presented from a neurodiversity affirming lens, from a presenter with lived experience as a PDA person. The objective of this course is to increase understanding of Pathological Demand Avoidance/Persistent Drive for Autonomy, as it relates to Autism. This will help clinicians better support families with PDA and/or Autistic members. Participants will have a better understanding of PDA, how to differentiate it from other conditions, and how to support PDAers in an effective way.
Learning Objectives:

Understand the impact of perceived demands on the nervous system.
List at least 2 potential differential diagnoses for autism with a PDA profile.
Identify at least one way to effectively support a PDAer.

Jessica Mertins, LICSW – Neurodiversity Specialist, Fernbrook Family Center
Level: Advanced | For: Everyone | Ages Addressed: Youth through Adulthood

About the Presenter
Jessica Mertins, LICSW has a masters of social work from the University of St. Thomas/Saint Catherine University and is currently an outpatient therapist, licensure supervisor, and Neurodiversity Specialist at Fernbrook Family Center. She trains from a perspective that blends her lived experience as a neurodivergent person, her professional experience, and her research and learning from other lived experience educators.

Infant & Early Childhood Mental Health Conference
2024-11-17 - 2024-11-19
Click here for details on the event.

Empowering Refugee Youth: Harnessing Interpersonal Neurobiology to Navigate Trauma
2024-09-25
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September 25, 2024 | 9:00am – 12:00pm CST | 3 CEHs | $45 | Live Webinar | Clinical Content | Cultural Competency Content
This workshop is expected to be approved for 3 hours of clinical content & 3 hours of cultural competency content
Description:
Interpersonal Neurobiology will be introduced as a framework to which clinicians and educators can understand how to work best with refugee youth with trauma backgrounds. The biology of trauma and relationships within the context of refugee experiences will be addressed in depth.
Learning Objectives:

Participants will learn how interpersonal neurobiology conceptualizes the human experience within the context of trauma and development
Participants will be able to apply key principles of interpersonal neurobiology when working with refugee youth
Participants will be able to articulate and identify interventions that promote healthy functioning in refugee youth with trauma backgrounds.

Zamzam Dini, LAMFT – Trauma Therapist, Minnesota Trauma Recovery Institute (MNTRI)
Level: Basic | For: Juvenile/Restorative Justice Professionals, School System Professionals, Mental Health Professionals, Social Services Professionals | Ages Addressed: School-age Children & Adolescents

About the Presenter
Zamzam Dini, LAMFT is a trauma therapist and licensed associate marriage and family therapist. She is also a PhD candidate in Family Social Science, specializing in Couple and Family Therapy at the University of Minnesota. Zamzam’s research focuses on refugee trauma and the intergenerational transmission of trauma in refugee family systems. Zamzam is also a second-generation Somali refugee.

Secondary Trauma & Compassion Fatigue
2024-09-10
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September 10, 2024 | 12:30 – 2:30pm CST | 2 CEHs | $30 | Live Webinar | Clinical Content

This workshop is expected to be approved for 2 hours of clinical content
Description:
This training will focus on Secondary Trauma/Compassion Fatigue, Mental Illness, PTSD, & Pathology of Secondary Trauma and will cover plausible interventions that can assist with lessening the distress associated with Secondary Trauma and Helper Resources.
Learning Objectives:

Defining Secondary Trauma
Detecting Secondary Trauma
Assessing the severity of Secondary Trauma
Treatment of Secondary Trauma

Irwin Thompson, LICSW – Mental Health Professional, A Better Way LLC
Level: Basic | For: Everyone | Ages Addressed: Adults working with children

About the Presenter
My name is Irwin Thompson, LICSW. I am an African American Mental Health Therapist; The client population/s I serve are predominately African American Individuals and Groups. I work with Children, Adolescents, and Adults; and I provide culturally specific services to African American Individuals and Groups. Some of the topics I address when working with African American Individuals and Groups are: Loss of Language, Re-connecting to an Intellectual Heritage, Black Pain, and De-Stigmatizing Mental Illness.

Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder: Evaluation and Treatment in Children and Adolescents
2024-08-30
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August 30, 2024 | 12:00 – 2:00pm CST | 2 CEHs | $30 | Live Webinar | Clinical Content

This workshop is expected to be approved for 2 hours of clinical content
Description:
ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder) is a devastating eating disorder associated with food sensitivities, low interest in food, and fear of eating. We will discuss the symptoms ARFID including how to identify this eating disorder and how to approach patients and families in discussing care. We will also discuss current treatment approaches to treating ARFID and how to seek treatment.
Learning Objectives:

Learn how to identify Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)
Explore how to approach patients & families in discussing care for ARFID
Discuss current treatment approaches for ARFID and learn how to seek treatment

Dr. Marcus Westerman, MD, PhD – Psychiatrist, Park Nicollet Melrose Center
Level: Basic | For: Psychologists, Marriage and Family Therapists, Clinical Social Workers, Counselors | Ages Addressed: All Ages

About the Presenter
Marcus Westerman, MD, PhD is an adult and child and adolescent psychiatrist at Melrose Center specializing in eating disorders. Dr. Westerman has participated in developing and researching treatment for Avoidant/Rescrtictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) in concert with providers at Harvard/Mass General hospital. Dr. Westerman also holds a PhD in Neuroscience.

Trying Different: Executive Functioning Strategies for Neurodiverse Humans
2024-08-16
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August 16, 2024 | 9:00 – 11:00am CST | 2 CEHs | $30 | Live Webinar | Clinical Content | Cultural Competency

This workshop is approved for 2 hours of clinical content & 1 hour of cultural competency content

Description:
Executive functioning encompasses the myriad brain processes and behavioral functions we use every day, but it often goes unrecognized and, most importantly, unidentified in the exploration of challenges and barriers both for clients and for professionals. These skills are necessary across the lifespan and can continue to be challenging for neurodiverse individuals of all ages, regardless of education or profession.
In this session, we will explore the impact of neurodiversity and executive functioning skills on daily challenges across the lifespan. We will begin with a brief overview of executive functioning and it’s relationship with neurodiversity. We will then spend the majority of our time exploring specific strategy templates for each executive functioning category which can be modified and adapted to individual situations both for children and for adults.
Learning Objectives:

Explore the impact of neurodiversity and executive functioning skills on daily challenges across the lifespan
Understand executive functioning and its relationship with neurodiversity
Explore specific strategy templates for each executive functioning category, which can be modified and adapted to individual situations both for children and for adults.

Jamie-Sue Peterson, MSW, LICSW – School Social Worker, Buffalo-Hanover-Montrose Schools
Level: Intermediate | For: Psychologists, Marriage and Family Therapists, Clinical Social Workers, Counselors | Ages Addressed: All Ages

About the Presenter
Jamie-Sue Peterson, MSW, LICSW is a school social worker in the Buffalo Hanover Montrose schools, working primarily with children ages 5-14 and using trauma-informed, holistic, collaborative, and creative approaches to support children and families experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and adjustment challenges. Her areas of expertise include ADHD, ASD, and twice-exceptional children, and she is particularly interested in using a blend of skill-based executive functioning coaching, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and creativity (play, art, music, and metaphor) to support neurodiverse children, parents, and families. She is a Certified Yoga Calm Instructor, and has completed clinical supervision training.

Pediatric Chronic Illness: A Compassionate Mental Health Approach
2024-06-27
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June 27, 2024 | 12:30 – 2:30pm CST | 2 CEHs | $30 | Live Webinar | Clinical Content

This workshop is approved for 2 hours of clinical content

Description:
Did you know that more than 1 in 4 children experience a chronic illness? They experience mental health concerns at a higher rate than the average American youth. Join us to learn ways to support these clients and increase their resiliency, whether you are a therapist, educator, parent, or other caring adult! We’ll provide clinical tools to enhance your awareness, medical literacy, practice, and care for this population.
Learning Objectives:

Increase knowledge and medical literacy about the needs of pediatric clients with chronic illness.
More than 1 in 4 clients under the age of 18 experience chronic illness, and have higher rates of mental illness than the average American youth. We will provide information to make attendees effective in assisting these clients!

Erika Vaughn, MSW, LICSW – Clinical Social Worker, M Health Fairview & University of Minnesota
Emily Vogl, MSW, LICSW – Pediatric Nephrology & Kidney Transplant Social Worker, M Health Fairview & University of Minnesota
Level: Basic | For: School System Professionals, Psychologists, Marriage & Family Therapists, Clinical Social Workers, Counselors | Ages Addressed: All Ages

About the Presenters
Erika Vaughn, MSW, LICSW has provided mental health care for children, adolescents, and parents with both a person-centered and family-centered lens for more than two decades, working in day treatment, school, therapy, and pediatric healthcare. In addition, Erika has been a professor, team lead, licensure supervisor, support group facilitator, program developer, and has planned numerous family education days. Erika is passionate about the intersection of pediatric healthcare and supportive mental health care.
Emily Vogl, MSW, LICSW has over a decade of medical social work experience in various specialties including the emergency department, oncology, maternal child health, and pediatrics. The foundation of her social work career was in supportive housing services for families, and this informs her approach of utilizing a family-centered and systems-based lens to support children, adolescents, and parents in the healthcare system. Emily is passionate about being an advocate to patients and families and walking alongside them in their healthcare journey

“What A Shame!” Using Ancient Wisdom to Increase Resiliency and Reduce Shame
2024-06-19
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June 19, 2024 | 12:30 – 2:30pm CST | 2 CEHs | $30 | Live Webinar | Cultural Competency
This workshop is expected to be approved for 2 hours of cultural competency content

Description:
This workshop offers a comprehensive exploration of shame, resilience, and neurochemical responses, providing practical tools and strategies for professionals in diverse fields. Participants will gain insights into the cultural and developmental dimensions of shame, as well as evidence-based techniques for promoting resilience and reducing shame in various settings. Attendees will earn continuing education credits, including cultural competency, by actively engaging in discussions, applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, and acquiring actionable skills to enhance their practice.
Central to the workshop is an exploration of the neurochemical responses associated with shame and resilience. Participants will discover how activities targeting dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, endorphins, and cortisol can influence emotional regulation and promote resilience. By understanding these neurochemical pathways, attendees will be empowered to design personalized sensory diets and interventions tailored to their own needs or the needs of those they support.
In addition to theoretical insights, this workshop offers practical tools and resources for immediate application. Participants will leave equipped with quick-reference strategies for de-escalation, calming, and resilience-building, as well as a deeper appreciation for the role of compassion, connection, and self-regulation in fostering shame-free environments.
Learning Objectives:

Knowledge Acquisition: Participants will be able to articulate the relationship between trauma, culture, and shame, as demonstrated through examples provided during the presentation.
Neurochemical Understanding: Participants will be able to identify specific activities related to dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, endorphins, and cortisol, showcasing an understanding of how these neurochemicals impact emotional regulation and resilience.
Practical Application: Participants will design their own sensory diet based on a quick screening metric provided during the session, demonstrating the ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical interventions aimed at promoting resilience and reducing shame.
Cultural Competency and Adaptation: Participants will develop culturally and developmentally appropriate strategies for addressing shame in various environments (e.g., school, home, workplace), reflecting an understanding of the diverse needs and experiences of individuals from different backgrounds and demographics.

Tascha Just, MS, Ed.S. – School Psychologist, Roseville Area Schools
Level: Intermediate | For: School system professionals including social workers & counselors, parents & caregivers | Ages Addressed: All Ages

About the Presenter
Tascha Just, MS, Ed.S merges 20 years of psychology expertise to foster resilience across generations. With Black, Indigenous, and Scandinavian heritage, she transforms learning into multicultural opportunities of growth and understanding. A visionary at the helm of SEL Academy, Tascha stands out as a trailblazer in the field of social-emotional learning. Through innovative training and coaching, Tascha has shaped the minds
of both educators and mental health professionals. Her extensive experience as a School Psychologist and Behavior Analyst further underscores her expertise in developing comprehensive programs that cater to diverse cognitive and behavioral needs. A holder of advanced degrees in School Psychology and a bachelor’s in Criminal Justice, Tascha’s academic prowess is matched only by her commitment to fostering inclusive and supportive learning environments. Her leadership in SEL Academy is not just a role but a testament to her dedication to transforming educational and therapeutic practices for holistic development.

Community Podcast Series Recording
2024-06-12 10:00 - 11:00 (America/Detroit)
Siembra Montessori Centro Tyrone Guzman
Join us in conversations about the relationship between the Montessori Method and Infant & Early Childhood Mental Health.

In this episode, hear from Diana Álvarez Forero of Siembra Montessori Centro Tyrone Guzman, and Nora Springer of the Montessori Center of Minnesota, as they chat with MACMH’s Twanna Anderson.
These MACMH Community Podcast Series episodes will be recorded and streamed live on MACMH’s YouTube. Subscribe to MACMH on YouTube to be the first to be notified when new episodes air!
Listen on MACMH’s YouTube channel

Community Podcast Series Recording
2024-06-11 10:00 - 11:00 (America/Detroit)
Montessori Center of Minnesota
Join us in conversations about the relationship between the Montessori Methodand Infant & Early Childhood Mental Health.

In this first episode, hear from Molly O’Shaughnessy and Nora Springer of the Montessori Center of Minnesota as they chat with MACMH’s Twanna Anderson.
These MACMH Community Podcast Series episodes will be recorded and streamed live on MACMH’s YouTube. Subscribe to MACMH on YouTube to be the first to be notified when new episodes air!
Listen on MACMH’s YouTube channel

Chronically Online: Understanding and Supporting Youth in Today's Digital Age
2024-06-07
Register Here
June 7, 2024 | 9:00 am – 11:00 am CST | 2 CEHs | $30 | Live Webinar
Content Warning: Discussions of youth accessing pornography & other adult content

Description:
When young people don’t see the need to access the internet carefully, they may experience harm or exploitation with lasting negative impacts. Presenters will discuss what youth are currently using to connect online, the impact of youth accessing pornography, and share tangible tips on supporting youth by engaging in open conversations about safe social media use and equip them with critical thinking skills to safely navigate the digital landscape.
Many adults, whether parents, caregivers or youth service professionals, struggle to understand how youth are currently accessing the internet and what that can all encompass. Every adult can benefit from learning more about what youth are doing online and how we can support them in making safer and healthier decisions in their online interactions.
Learning Objectives:

Understand what youth are currently using to connect online & the impact of youth accessing pornography
Gain tangible tips on supporting youth by engaging in open conversations about safe social media use and equip them with critical thinking skills to safely navigate the digital landscape

Carly Hiti – Safe Harbor Youth Advocate, Program for Aid to Victims of Sexual Assault (PAVSA)

Level: Basic | For: School system professionals, parents & caregivers | Ages Addressed: early teens – young adults

About the Presenter
Carly Hiti is the Safe Harbor Youth Advocate at a sexual assault program in Duluth, MN. Carly provides supportive services to youth who have experience sexual violence including childhood sexual abuse, sex trafficking, and sexual exploitation. She has experience working with homeless and runaway youth involved in child protection matters in a shelter setting. Carly has been a certified Sexual Assault Advocate since 2016, is certified in providing Youth Mental Health First Aid, and frequently collaborates with prosecution, child protection, law enforcement, and juvenile corrections to connect and support youth in a variety of settings.

Children's Story Walk
2024-05-19 10:00 - 13:00 (America/Detroit) | Como Lakeside Pavilion, 1360 Lexington Pkwy N, St. Paul, 55103, United States
Join us this spring at MACMH’s Annual Story Walk!
Celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month with MACMH’s Annual Story Walk! Practice mindfulness, spend time together and get moving outside!
Featuring the children’s book Watch Me Grow by local author Josalyn Thomas, take a stroll around the lake and follow a story of growth, patience, and plant life. Stop and read each page that will be stationed along the path.
Let us know you’re coming HERE!
Also at the Story Walk:

Meet the author of Watch Me Grow, Josalyn Thomas.
Contribute to a collective Story Walk craft project.
Partake in a children’s book exchange. Bring a pre-loved book you’re ready to part with (or many!) and take home a new story or two.
Cuddle up in the reading corner if you need a space to relax.
and enjoy Como Lake Park!

We look forward to seeing you!

Follow MACMH on Facebook and Instagram for weather-dependent updates as the event draws near.
Check out what you missed here.

Sound Mind Project Spring Concert
2024-05-05 14:00 (America/Detroit) | St. Michael’s Lutheran Church, 1660 County B Road W, Roseville, MN, United States
A choir dedicated to supporting the mental health of youth in our community, join the Sound Mind Project for its spring concert.
The suggested donation of $25 will support MACMH! A portion of the proceeds collected will benefit the work the MN Association for Children’s Mental Health does with families, children, caregivers, and professionals.
About Sound Mind Project
The Sound Mind Project, founded in 2022, is a community choir that seeks to raise awareness and funds to support causes that directly work with youth in need of mental health support.
​Through our music and the donations the Sound Mind Project receives at concerts, it seeks to raise awareness and support for the mental health needs of youth in our communities.
With proceeds from its concerts in 2022 the Sound Mind Project donated a guitar and festival drums to the music therapy program supporting the new inpatient mental health unit at Children’s Minnesota. It also donated $2,000 to Mental Health Connect, a local organization helping to connect people with the resources they need.
In 2023 the Sound Mind Project donated $1,000 to Twin Cities Music Therapy Services as well as tubanos and a guitar to Children’s Minnesota.

Child & Adolescent Conference
2024-04-28 - 2024-04-30

FREE Pop-Up Training: Mind-Body Tools You Can Use
2024-03-15
Register Here
March 15, 2024 | 9:00 am – 11:00 am CST | 2 CEHs | FREE | Live Webinar
Description:
Participants will learn about evidenced-based skills in mindfulness, breathwork, and self-regulation that can help them reduce stress, burnout, and provide a healthy presence in their classroom or work environment.
Learning Objectives:

Understand the vagus nerve and its role in supporting optimal wellbeing for helping professionals
Develop a foundational understanding of polyvagal theory and felt-safety
Practice evidence-based breathwork techniques to support nervous system balance

Dr. Niki Elliot – Founder/CEO, Mindful Leaders Project
Level: Basic | For: Everyone | Ages Addressed: All

About the Presenter
For more than 25 years, Dr. Niki’s professional life has been dedicated to improving conditions for students who struggle to live and learn in traditional settings. She sees the innate spark of genius in them and moves mountains to help educators, parents, health professionals, and social service providers transform personal and systemic practices that perpetuate trauma and underperformance.
Dr. Niki has taught students from elementary through post-graduate education. She considers herself to be a holistic educator who acknowledges that we bring minds, bodies, and spirits to the teaching and learning process. She believes in incorporating evidence-based mindfulness practices and other evidence-based mind-body wellness techniques in learning spaces. Dr. Niki coaches educators and parents to balance themselves and the energy they bring to children in order to establish the kinds of trusting and healing relationships that are foundational to effective teaching and learning.
Currently, she serves as director of the Center for Neurodiversity, Learning, and Wellness in the LaFetra College of Education at the University of La Verne. There, she teaches pre-service and in-service teachers how to incorporate educational neurobiology, mindfulness, breathwork, mind-body techniques, and healing-centered engagement in their own lives. As a result of the programming she spearheads, educators are equipped to provide compassionate advocacy and support for students who struggle with learning differences or the damaging impact of trauma.

DSM-5-TR Updates for Child and Adolescent Assessment: Application and Future Directions
2024-03-13
Register Here
March 13, 2024 | 9:00 am – 12:00 pm CST | 3 CEHs | $45 | Live Webinar | Clinical Content
This webinar is approved for 2 hours of clinical content.

Description:
This presentation will highlight DSM-5-TR changes to diagnostic criteria relevant for youth. It will consider the impact of these changes on clinical practice. It will also explore advantages and disadvantages of our existing diagnostic system and discuss the future of dimensional diagnostic approaches – including proposed evaluation methods and cultural considerations.
Learning Objectives:

Understand changes to DSM-5-TR relevant for youth.
Identify advantages and disadvantages of the DSM-5-TR diagnostic system.
Locate and use various evaluation methods.

Dr. Adrienne VanZomeren, Ph.D., L.P. – Owner & Clinical Psychologist, AVZ Psychology
Level: Basic | For: Education/Mental Health/Healthcare Professionals, Students | Ages Addressed: 6+

About the Presenter
Dr. Adrienne VanZomeren, Ph.D., LP, is a clinical psychologist and owner of AVZ Psychology LLC – a private practice focused on diagnostically complex assessment, and evidence-based psychotherapy for teens and young adults with anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, chronic pain, and other conditions. She also currently serves part-time as a member of the diagnostics team at Groves Learning Organization. Additionally, she creates and delivers didactic workshops for pre-doctoral psychology interns. Formerly, she taught undergraduate courses at the University of St. Thomas, Century College, and the University of Minnesota and contributed to developmental psychopathology research. She has also served as the content creator and facilitator for a local nonprofit. A former college athlete and biologist, Dr. VanZomeren has also taught yoga and served in various roles outside of clinical psychology throughout her life. Dr. VanZomeren earned her Ph.D. at the University of Minnesota Institute of Child Development and completed her clinical internship at Harvard Medical School/Boston Children’s Hospital. She is deeply committed to collaborative, integrative, and personalized clinical care as well as evidence-based assessment, treatment, and instruction. She views her work as an opportunity to translate information into digestible formats that can have broader impacts on collective mental health. As a first-generation college student born in Detroit, MI, Dr. VanZomeren is a proponent of diversity, equity, and inclusion in education and mental health care.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrienne-vanzomeren-phd-03b74579/
X: https://twitter.com/adriennevanz
Website: https://www.avzpsychology.com/

POSTPONED Revive: A Black History Month Community Event
2024-02-19 12:00 - 19:00 (America/Chicago) | Capri Theatre, 2027 W. Broadway, Minneapolis, MN, 55411, United States
This event has been postponed until further notice.
A free Black History Month community event focused on reviving emotional and spiritual wellness in the Village.
Honor the shoulders of our ancestors that we stand on. Celebrate those who continue their legacies. Equip future generations to carry on those legacies.
When: Monday, February 19, noon to 7 p.m.
Where: Capri Theater, 2027 W Broadway, Minneapolis, MN 55411
Give HERE
Engage with various local non-profits serving our community’s youth and families. Learn about their services. Get to know local small business owners. Experience captivating performances by local talent. Enjoy a live performance of “The Meeting,” a power play paying homage to Malcolm X and Martin Luther King, Jr. View “Laurel Avenue,” a groundbreaking film released in 1993 depicting a family in the Rondo neighborhood. Engage with community panelists during a Q&A. Indulge in food and refreshments provided by local food vendors.
“The Meeting”
In 2023, the Minnesota Association for Children’s Mental Health sponsored the play performance at eight local area schools in front of approximately 1,500 students and faculty. Following the 20-minute performance is a 40-minute Q&A session. During this session, performers engage with the audience on the things Martin and Malcolm fought for and how some of those things still affect our society today. This creates a safe dialogue with young people and those who work with young people to discuss mental health. At the Revive event, the Q&A will be hosted by a panel of community members, bringing awareness to how the day-to-day stresses of life affect our youth and children’s mental health and their caregivers. We remind the community that it takes a Village, and together, we are stronger.
This event is brought to you by Armor Bearers of Christ Church and sponsored by the Minnesota Association for Children’s Mental Health and Westbone Productions.

Black History Month Social Media Giveaway
2024-02-09 07:00 - 2024-02-19 23:59 (America/Detroit)
You help us make MACMH mighty!
In honor of all your support and in celebration of Black History Month, two lucky winners will be sent books written and/or illustrated by Black creatives honoring the experiences of Black children. These stories are perfect to share with the children in your life, no matter the month!
You could win:

How to enter on Facebook

Find, like & comment on our giveaway post.
Be sure to follow Minnesota Association for Children’s Mental Health on Facebook if you don’t already!
Subscribe to our newsletter here.

How to enter on Instagram

Like our giveaway post.
Tag 3 friends in the comments.
Follow @macmh_org on Instagram.

Contest Rules

The promoter of this giveaway is the Minnesota Association for Children’s Mental Health, whose registered office is at 23 Empire Drive, Suite 1000, St. Paul, Minnesota, 55103.
The competition is open to residents of the United States aged 18 years or over.
There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to enter this giveaway.
By entering this competition, an entrant indicates their agreement to be bound by these terms and conditions.
The contest will be held on Facebook and Instagram, where additional entry details for the competition can be found.
Only one entry per person per social media platform will be accepted. Multiple entries from the same person will be disqualified.
The open date for contest entry is Friday, February 9, at 7 a.m. The closing date for entry will be midnight on Monday, February 19. After this date, no further entries will be permitted.
No responsibility can be accepted for entries received after the closing date.
This giveaway is in no way sponsored, endorsed, or administered by, or associated with Meta.
The promoter reserves the right to cancel or amend the competition and terms and conditions without notice for any reason. Any changes to the competition will be notified to entrants as soon as possible by the promoter.
The promoter is not responsible for inaccurate prize details supplied to any entrant by any third party connected with this competition.
The prize is as stated and no cash or other alternatives will be offered. Prizes are not transferable. Prizes are subject to availability and the promoter reserves the right to substitute any prize with another of equivalent value without giving notice.
Winners will be chosen at random by software from all entries received and verified by the promoter and or its agents.
The competition and these terms and conditions will be governed by United States law and any disputes will be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of the United States.
The winner agrees to the use of their name and image in any publicity material, as well as their entry. Any personal data relating to the winner or any other entrants will be used solely in accordance with current U.S. data protection legislation and will not be disclosed to a third party without the entrant’s prior consent.

Growing the Strengths of Youth: A Trauma-Sensitive Strength-Based Approach to Youth Development
2024-02-09
Register Here
February 9, 2024 | 9:00 am – 11:00 am CST | 2 CEHs | $30 | Live Webinar

Description: Today’s youth report increasing levels of stress, anxiety, and depression, leading to a crisis in well-being. Youth need opportunities to identify and develop their strengths and fill their toolboxes with skills to handle life stressors. Research has indicated that youth who can name their strengths and values and affirm their positive characteristics have reduced stress levels and an increased positive outlook on life. They can aspire to growth and well-being with positive experiences to develop these skills for resilience. In this session, adults working with youth will learn how stress affects learning and the importance of connecting with students using positive characteristics. Participants will actively participate in activities they can take and use to teach youth the skills needed to lessen the stressors in their lives and identify their innate strengths.
Learning Objectives:

Identify the three levels of stress and recognize the effects of stress on the systems of the body
Demonstrate one or more tools used for self-regulation
Identify strength-based strategies to assist youth in increased well-being

Level: Basic | For: Everyone | Ages Addressed: 6 years – Adulthood
Kathy Magnusson, M.ed – Founding Director, Wildewood Learning

About the Presenter
Kathy Magnusson, M.Ed., is the visionary founding director of Wildewood Learning, a speaking and training company. As a respected speaker, trainer, and educator, Kathy has made a global impact by working with educators and youth service professionals worldwide. Kathy holds a master’s degree in education from the University of Minnesota and is a licensed middle and high school teacher. Over the years, she has pursued advanced training in trauma-sensitive practices, non-violent communication, and strengths-based education and leadership.
As a certified Sources of Strength trainer, Kathy has been instrumental in promoting mental health and well-being in youth. Additionally, she has been an approved expert trainer and course writer through Archive, delivering training to early childhood educators and daycare professionals in northwestern Minnesota since 2020. With a career spanning over 25 years, Kathy has dedicated herself to supporting young people and those who serve them. Her top five Strengths of Connectedness, Input, Learner, Ideation, and Arranger have driven her transformative work. One of Kathy’s primary missions is to create safe and effective learning environments that draw upon the strengths of both adults and youth. Her tailored, trauma-informed, strengths-based approach provides individuals with the knowledge and tools to uncover their unique brilliance.
Beyond empowering others, Kathy focuses on supporting education and youth service professionals in developing their own emotional intelligence and communication skills to foster positive relationships. She firmly believes that a ripple effect occurs when perceptions change, transforming the learning experience for all involved. Kathy lives on a farm in northern Minnesota with her husband and has four young adult children. When she is not hanging out with her family or dogs, you can find Kathy in her “calm place,” serenely kayaking or relaxing with a good book at the family lake cabin.
Website: https://wildewoodlearning.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wildewoodlearning
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathryn-magnusson-ab17a939/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wildewoodlearning

Building Cultural Competency: Understanding & Treating Mental Health for Hmong in America
2024-02-02
Register Here
February 2, 2024 | 9:00 am CST | 4 CEHs | $60 | Live Webinar | Cultural Competency Content
This webinar is expected to be approved for 4 hours of cultural competency content

Description: The Hmong are a growing population in the United States, with approximately 90,000 living in Minnesota. Most have immigrated since the mid-1970s from Southeast Asia to escape the effects of the Vietnam War. Historically, the Hmong people struggle with intergenerational trauma, poverty, and persecution. This workshop is a comprehensive, in-depth assessment of the Hmong American community, their uniqueness as a culture, their societal struggles, and their mental health issues. Furthermore, this course will also invite participants to become multilingual in their ability to treat patients, as they also become more self-aware of their own cultural biases along with the biases of others. This workshop will advocate for cultural humility, recognizing the value in each culture’s strengths, utilizing them in the appropriate opportunities to endorse collaboration across all races, ethnicities and nationalities. Finally, effective and culturally competent applicational strategies will be introduced and discussed.
Learning Objectives:

To gain an in-depth and comprehensive knowledge and awareness of the unique cultural/societal issues that the Hmong community in the United States has, which also impacts their mental health
To be able to identify strengths in the Hmong community with regards to addressing mental health concerns.
To be able to provide effective and culturally competent strategies in helping the Hmong and their families to appropriately deal with mental health, relational, and societal issues.

Maria Moua, MA, LMFT – Founder & Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Maria Moua Therapy LLC
Level: Intermediate | For: Mental Health Professionals | Ages Addressed: All

About the Presenter
Maria Moua is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She is also a certified perinatal/postpartum counselor. As a first-generation American born in the United States and a daughter of Hmong refugee immigrants, she is passionate about working in the community and helping people strive and grow into their best potential. She’s been practicing in the mental health field for over 13 years, with a foundation of her work being in intensive in-home family-systems therapy, multisystemic therapy, and Children’s Crisis. Maria is also the coordinator for the Hmong MFT Support Group. Maria currently runs her private practice, Maria Moua Therapy LLC.
Website: https://mariamouatherapy.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085386173990

Stay in School Celebration
2024-01-06 10:00 - 15:00 (America/Detroit) | West Minnehaha Recreation Center, 685 W. Minnehaha Avenue, St. Paul, MN, 55104, United States
When: January 6, 2024, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: West Minnehaha Recreation Center, 685 W. Minnehaha Avenue, St. Paul, Minnesota, 55104
Cost: Free
Our children have worked hard! Let’s help them finish with success.
MACMH has partnered with Jacquelyn Thomas, Uplift MN, MN Association for Children’s Mental Health, National Parents Union, Feeding the Dream, Free College Money, Fannie Education Alliance and St. Paul Public Schools on a first-of-its kind, annual event – Stay in School Celebration.
This event will replenish families with backpack and school supplies; provide resources to support families; and celebrate and motivate our children and their families to thrive in education.
Join us for workshops, motivational speakers, music, a book giveaway, free breakfast and lunch, and so much more.
We are seeking support from businesses and organizations to help bring this first annual event to the community. Our goal is to supply resources and support to underrepresented and underserved communities, focusing on the African American/Black families in the city of St. Paul.
Registration: https://shorturl.at/dizE6
To donate or sponsor: Reach out to Jacquelyn Thomas at 651-285-7185 | villagemamajacquie@gmail.com
OR visit https://www.givemn.org/donate/Minnesota-Association-For-Children-s-Mental-Health and indicate that your donation is for the “Stay in School Celebration.”
OR mail a check to MACMH, 23 Empire Dr. Ste. 1000, St. Paul, MN 55103
As a donor or sponsor, your contribution will be recognized throughout the event. Donation deadline is December 20, 2023.
