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5th Annual RC SELPA Mental Health Symposium: Mental Health...
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Tuesday, May 13
 

7:15am PDT

Symposium Registration
Tuesday May 13, 2025 7:15am - 9:00am PDT
Tuesday May 13, 2025 7:15am - 9:00am PDT
Foyer

7:30am PDT

Breakfast Buffet and Networking
Tuesday May 13, 2025 7:30am - 8:30am PDT
Tuesday May 13, 2025 7:30am - 8:30am PDT
Raincross Ballroom

8:30am PDT

Mental Health Symposium Welcome & Opening Session
Tuesday May 13, 2025 8:30am - 9:00am PDT
Tuesday May 13, 2025 8:30am - 9:00am PDT
Raincross Ballroom

9:00am PDT

Keynote Speaker - Wounds2Wisdom
Tuesday May 13, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am PDT
Join Coach BE for a powerful and engaging keynote explicitly designed for educators, mental health professionals, and student support teams with his innovative P.L.A.Y. More framework: Prepare, Learn, Advocate, and You. Coach BE equips participants with practical tools to turn challenges and unmet expectations into meaningful growth opportunities. Rooted in social-emotional learning and real-world application, this session will inspire you to reframe obstacles as opportunities and deepen your impact on the students and families you serve. Leave empowered to support mental wellness and resilience in your schools and communities.
Speakers
avatar for Bryan E. Stephens

Bryan E. Stephens "Coach BE"

BEStwenty4
Meet Coach BE, the ultimate edutainer and motivational speaker, on a mission to empower lives with passion, purpose, and laughter. Inspired by influential figures like his 5th-grade teacher and late mentors, Coach BE believes in leaving a legacy of instilling values in others. With... Read More →
Tuesday May 13, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am PDT
Raincross Ballroom

10:15am PDT

Developing a Comprehensive ERMHS Manual & Program
Tuesday May 13, 2025 10:15am - 11:30am PDT
This panel will explore the development of an ERMHS manual and program from conception to implementation. Experts in ERMHS, program development, and district leadership will guide participants through best practices, team collaboration strategies, and alignment with district vision and mission.

Outcomes:
Understanding how to effectively collaborate as a team to develop an ERMHS manual. Learning best practices for initiating, refining, and finalizing a comprehensive ERMHS program. Exploring how to align the ERMHS program with district goals, vision, and mission for maximum impact.
Speakers
avatar for Rocio Drye

Rocio Drye

Mental Health Therapist, Banning Unified School District
Rocio Drye is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Pupil Personnel Service Credential. She earned her Master’s degree in Social Work from California State University, Fullerton, and her Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology from the University of California, San Diego. With... Read More →
avatar for Tricia Favela

Tricia Favela

Mental Health Therapist, Banning Unified School District
Tricia Favela, LCSW Mental Health Therapist, Banning Unified School DistrictTricia Favela is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who earned her Master of Social Work degree from California State University, San Bernardino in 2016. She began her career in Child Welfare, supporting children... Read More →
avatar for Timothy Worthington

Timothy Worthington

Special Education Director, Banning Unified School District
With nearly three decades of dedicated service in education, Mr. Worthington  is a passionate and results-driven leader specializing in special education, alternative education, and general education. Currently serving as the Director of Special Education at Banning Unified School... Read More →
Tuesday May 13, 2025 10:15am - 11:30am PDT
Ballroom B

10:15am PDT

Enhancing Academic Success Through Positive School Culture
Tuesday May 13, 2025 10:15am - 11:30am PDT
This presentation will explore strategies for enhancing academic success by fostering a positive school culture. We will delve into the impact of a supportive and inclusive school environment on student and staff motivation, engagement, and overall academic performance. The session will highlight practical approaches for cultivating a culture that emphasizes respect, collaboration, and growth, both for students and staff. By creating a sense of belonging and encouragement, schools can increase academic achievement and well-being for everyone involved.

Outcomes:
  1. Understanding of Positive School Culture: Attendees will gain insights into the key elements that define a positive school culture and its direct link to improved academic performance.
  2. Strategies for Fostering Inclusion and Respect: Practical methods for building an inclusive environment where students and staff feel valued, supported, and motivated to succeed.
  3. Enhancing Student Engagement: Techniques to increase student involvement, engagement, and ownership of their learning through a positive and inspiring school environment.
  4. Improved Teacher-Student Relationships: How cultivating strong, positive relationships between teachers and students can enhance communication, trust, and academic outcomes.
  5. Actionable Plan for Creating a Positive Culture: A set of actionable steps for school leaders, teachers, and staff to implement in order to develop and sustain a positive school culture that enhances academic success.
  6. Measurement of Success: Tools and methods for tracking the progress and effectiveness of the initiatives to increase academic achievement through a positive school culture.
By the end of the session, participants will have a clearer understanding of how to leverage the power of school culture to drive academic improvement, foster student growth, and create a thriving educational environment.
Speakers
avatar for John Casamento

John Casamento

School Therapist & Guidance Counselor, Spectrum Schools
John Casamento was born and raised in Southern California. John received his bachelor’s degree in human services for child and adolescent development. John completed his master’s degree in clinical and educational counseling. John has approximately 20 years serving the community... Read More →
avatar for Ivy Webb

Ivy Webb

Program Director, Spectrum Schools
Ivy Webb is a proud New Jersey native with a strong educational background and over a decade of experience in Special Education. She holds a BS in Interdisciplinary Studies from Norfolk State University, a Special Education Certification from Old Dominion University, and a Collegiate... Read More →
Tuesday May 13, 2025 10:15am - 11:30am PDT
Ballroom A

10:15am PDT

Emotional Regulation: Therapy Interventions for Elementary Students
Tuesday May 13, 2025 10:15am - 11:30am PDT
The presenter will share hands-on interventions to address social and emotional needs for children at the elementary level. The presentation is targeted at ERMHS therapist working with elementary students.

Participants will come away with enhanced understanding of age-appropriate interventions for emotional regulation.
Speakers
avatar for Laura Gordillo Escobar

Laura Gordillo Escobar

ERMHS Therapist, Val Verde Unified School District
Mrs. Gordillo is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist currently providing Educationally Related Mental Health Services for elementary school students using creative and playful therapeutic interventions to support social and emotional growth. Mrs. Gordillo’s experiences include... Read More →
I Feel pdf
Tuesday May 13, 2025 10:15am - 11:30am PDT
Meeting Rooms 9 & 10

10:15am PDT

A Window Between Worlds Art Workshop - Session 1
Tuesday May 13, 2025 10:15am - 11:30am PDT
A Window Between Worlds is a two part art workshop that will engage educational professionals to a trauma informed approach to support students toward healing from the unwavering effects of trauma. The Windows Between Worlds art workshop will consist of psychoeducation on trauma informed care and art exercises that are inclusive of all students.

The desired outcome is to provide educational professionals with the following learning objectives:
          - A review of the 6 key trauma informed principles
          - An understanding of how expressive art creates a safe space for trauma recovery
          - Participation in two expressive art directives using trauma informed care in action

Speakers
avatar for Ashley Bautista

Ashley Bautista

School-Based Mental Health Therapist, Desert Sands Unified School District
Ashley Bautista is a bilingual School-Based Mental Health Therapist Associate at Thomas Jefferson Middle School, currently working under the supervision of Elena Labastida, LMFT. She holds a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy and Professional Clinical Counseling, and brings... Read More →
Tuesday May 13, 2025 10:15am - 11:30am PDT
Meetings Room 7 & 8

11:30am PDT

Buffet Lunch & Networking
Tuesday May 13, 2025 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Tuesday May 13, 2025 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Raincross Ballroom

12:45pm PDT

Examining Mental Health Assessments, Eligibility and Services
Tuesday May 13, 2025 12:45pm - 2:00pm PDT
Examining Mental Health Assessments, Eligibility and Services
Speakers
avatar for Cynthia D. Vargas

Cynthia D. Vargas

Partner, F3 Law
Highly respected and dedicated education law expert Cynthia “Cyndi” Vargas represents and counsels school districts, county offices of education and special education local plan areas (SELPAs) throughout southern California and beyond, with a focus on the San Bernardino County... Read More →
avatar for Austin R. Jones

Austin R. Jones

Associate, F3 Law
Focusing on issues of due process in education law, Austin Jones provides advice to schooldistricts and other public agencies in the areas of student services, student discipline andspecial education. When clients encounter issues and conflicts arising under Section 504 ofthe Rehabilitation... Read More →
Tuesday May 13, 2025 12:45pm - 2:00pm PDT
Ballroom A

12:45pm PDT

From Story to Stretch: Weaving Narratives Into an Elementary Yoga Program
Tuesday May 13, 2025 12:45pm - 2:00pm PDT
Discover how to implement a yoga program in elementary schools to support students’ mental well-being. Learn how to create engaging narratives, structure sessions, and use AI to generate themes and stories. This session provides practical strategies for mental health professionals to foster mindfulness, focus, and resilience in young learners through movement, breath, and storytelling.

Participants will learn how to implement a yoga program from scratch how to access AI to craft a fun, engaging narrative style yoga flow.
Speakers
avatar for Lena Abella-Saunders

Lena Abella-Saunders

School Psychologist, Menifee Union School District
Lena Abella-Saunders is a school counselor with 18 years in the field. Currently, she serves as an elementary counselor in the Menifee Union School District, following 12 years as a middle school counselor and 6 at the elementary level. In her previous role, Ms. Abella-Saunders developed... Read More →
avatar for Jared Saunders

Jared Saunders

School Psychologist, Val Verde Unified School District
Jared Saunders is a school psychologist working for Val Verde Unified School District. Currently, Dr. Saunders is serving his district as a “tiered intervention specialist” with a focus on developing sustainable tier 2 and tier 3 behavioral supports throughout the district. He... Read More →
Tuesday May 13, 2025 12:45pm - 2:00pm PDT
Ballroom B

12:45pm PDT

A Window Between Worlds Art Workshop - Session 2
Tuesday May 13, 2025 12:45pm - 2:00pm PDT
A Window Between Worlds is a two part art workshop that will engage educational professionals to a trauma informed approach to support students toward healing from the unwavering effects of trauma. The Windows Between Worlds art workshop will consist of psychoeducation on trauma informed care and art exercises that are inclusive of all students.

The desired outcome is to provide educational professionals with the following learning objectives:
          - A review of the 6 key trauma informed principles
          - An understanding of how expressive art creates a safe space for trauma recovery
          - Participation in two expressive art directives using trauma informed care in action
Speakers
avatar for Ashley Bautista

Ashley Bautista

School-Based Mental Health Therapist, Desert Sands Unified School District
Ashley Bautista is a bilingual School-Based Mental Health Therapist Associate at Thomas Jefferson Middle School, currently working under the supervision of Elena Labastida, LMFT. She holds a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy and Professional Clinical Counseling, and brings... Read More →
Tuesday May 13, 2025 12:45pm - 2:00pm PDT
Meetings Room 7 & 8

12:45pm PDT

Empowering Neurodivergent Students: Trauma-Informed Strategies for Emotional Regulation
Tuesday May 13, 2025 12:45pm - 2:00pm PDT
Equip educators and parents with trauma-informed strategies to support neurodivergent children and teens with emotional dysregulation. Learn actionable tools to reduce behavioral challenges, build resilience, and create safe, nurturing environments that promote self-regulation and emotional growth.
  1. Provide trauma-informed approaches to address emotional dysregulation in neurodivergent students.
  2. Equip participants with practical tools and techniques to reduce behavioral challenges while fostering emotional resilience.
  3. Enhance collaboration between parents and educators to create consistent and supportive environments for neurodivergent students.
  4. Empower participants to shift from managing behaviors reactively to proactively building environments that nurture growth and emotional regulation.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. David A. Palmer

Dr. David A. Palmer

Founder/Director, The Inclusion Matters Collective
Dr. David A. Palmer is an educator, speaker, and neurodivergence-affirming coach dedicated to empowering parents, educators, and mental health professionals in supporting neurodivergent children and teens. With over 30 years in general and special education trauma-informed teaching... Read More →
Tuesday May 13, 2025 12:45pm - 2:00pm PDT
Meeting Rooms 9 & 10

2:00pm PDT

Afternoon Snack Break
Tuesday May 13, 2025 2:00pm - 2:15pm PDT
Tuesday May 13, 2025 2:00pm - 2:15pm PDT
Foyer

2:15pm PDT

A Small, Rural School District’s Story in Integrating a Therapy Dog in the Educational Setting
Tuesday May 13, 2025 2:15pm - 3:30pm PDT
Desert Center Unified, a single-school district in Riverside County, California, has implemented a therapy dog program. This endeavor is now completing its second year, and we are seeing a significant positive impact on our elementary students. The initiative has enhanced emotional well-being, improved student engagement, and supported social development, creating a safe and nurturing environment for learning and growth.

Through this session, we aim to share the positive impact of our therapy dog program, providing participants with practical insights on how to implement similar initiatives in their own districts. Our desired outcomes include increasing awareness of the benefits of therapy animals in education, offering strategies for successful implementation, and inspiring educators and administrators to prioritize student mental health and well-being.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Greg Sackos

Dr. Greg Sackos

Superintendent/Principal, Desert Center Unified School District
Dr. Greg Sackos is the Superintendent/Principal of Desert Center Unified School District, where he is entering his fifth year. Before this role, he held leadership positions in several Arizona school districts, including superintendent roles in Morristown, Bouse, Salt River Pima Maricopa... Read More →
avatar for Shauna Petersen

Shauna Petersen

Teacher, Desert Center Unified School District
Shauna Petersen is a TK through second grade teacher at Desert Center Unified School District. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education/Early Childhood Development from the University of Wisconsin–River Falls, and recently earned her Master’s degree in Educational... Read More →
avatar for Mireyah Mendoza

Mireyah Mendoza

Student, Desert Center Unified School District
8t Grade Student at Desert Center Unified School District.
Tuesday May 13, 2025 2:15pm - 3:30pm PDT
Meeting Rooms 9 & 10

2:15pm PDT

Leaning into the Empathic Space: An Interactive Presentation
Tuesday May 13, 2025 2:15pm - 3:30pm PDT
The purpose of this presentation is to acquaint participants with a felt sense understanding of the empathic space in their work with students and clients. This will include guided somatic inquiry processes, breakouts and group discussion.

Participants will come away with a richer understanding of themselves as educators, counselors, administrators and helpers, and a greater capacity to practically apply their own deeper wisdom for optimal outcomes in their work.
Speakers
avatar for Nick Bustos

Nick Bustos

Behavioral Health Therapist, SEAL Program, Temecula Valley Unified School District
Nick Bustos is a California licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), with a PhD in Clinical Psychology, emphasis in Integral Psychology. He currently serves as core faculty in the Integral Counseling Psychology program at the California Institute of Integral Studies and in the... Read More →
Tuesday May 13, 2025 2:15pm - 3:30pm PDT
Ballroom B

2:15pm PDT

Building Trauma Competency from an EMDR Lens
Tuesday May 13, 2025 2:15pm - 3:30pm PDT
This session will utilize an EMDR lens to examine trauma responses and introduce practical ideas for building the youth's capacity to tolerate distress. Presenter will provide a general overview of the theory behind EMDR therapy to build upon understanding of the function of trauma responses. The concept of distress tolerance will be explored in depth along with ways to increase a youth's capacity to maintain regulation when triggered. Finally, participants will practice several interventions geared toward helping youth regain emotional regulation when triggered.

Objectives:
  1. Participants will develop understanding of the function of trauma responses.
  2. Participants will have an understanding of ways to increase distress tolerance in youth.
  3. Participants will have the opportunity to practice several emotional regulation interventions.
Speakers
avatar for Andrea Lovvorn

Andrea Lovvorn

Executive Director, Victor Community Support Services
Andrea Lovvorn has been working with children and families in multiple capacities for over 20 years. During her career, she has worked with families as a licensed childcare provider, a therapist, a clinical supervisor, and currently as the Executive Director of VCSS Lake Elsinore... Read More →
Tuesday May 13, 2025 2:15pm - 3:30pm PDT
Ballroom A
 
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