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5th Annual RC SELPA Mental Health Symposium: Mental Health...
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 - Bryan E. Stephens "Coach BE"
Tuesday May 13, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am PDT
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
 
Wednesday, May 14
 

7:30am PDT

Buffet Breakfast & Networking
Wednesday May 14, 2025 7:30am - 8:30am PDT
Wednesday May 14, 2025 7:30am - 8:30am PDT
Raincross Ballroom

9:00am PDT

Rising Strong - Overcoming Leaderships Greatest Challenges
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am PDT
Speakers
avatar for Terrence Davis

Terrence Davis

Superintendent, Banning Unified School District
Terrence Davis was born and raised in San Francisco, California, and aspires to authentically inspire and empower others by sharing his personal experiences and leading meaningful change. He’s an established Superintendent of Schools in Banning CA, and a seasoned educator of over... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am PDT
Raincross Ballroom

10:15am PDT

LEADERS II SOCIETY
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:15am - 11:30am PDT
Ignite the spark of leadership in your personal or professional life with Leaders II Society! Led by the inspiring Coach BE, this lively, hands-on session will guide you through a journey of self-discovery, practical strategy-building, and contagious leadership practices. Discover how to recognize your own leadership potential, empower your staff, and inspire those you serve. Through interactive discussions, role-play scenarios, and actionable frameworks, you'll leave ready to nurture a thriving culture of leadership in your community - one that encourages everyone to learn, lead, and lift each other up. Come join us, and experience leadership like never before!
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 →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:15am - 11:30am PDT
Meetings Room 7 & 8

10:15am PDT

Child Find – Addressing School Refusal and Other Mental Health Concerns
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:15am - 11:30am PDT
This session will explore how mental health challenges, such as school refusal, frequent absences due to illness, or emotional shutdowns during stressful school situations, may signal a need for special education assessment and support. Participants will learn how to distinguish between typical student behavior and signs that may indicate more significant mental health concerns impacting educational performance. The presenters will also discuss specific assessments, supports, and services for addressing mental health concerns and school avoidance.
Speakers
avatar for Lauri Arrowsmith

Lauri Arrowsmith

Senior Counsel, Lozano Smith Attorneys at Law
Lauri Arrowsmith is Senior Counsel in Lozano Smith's San Diego office. Ms. Arrowsmith focuses on helping school districts handle complex special education issues in a variety of settings, including IEP meetings, mediations and due process hearings. With her many years of experience... Read More →
avatar for Amanda Cordova

Amanda Cordova

Senior Counsel, Lozano Smith Attorneys at Law
Amanda J. Cordova is Senior Counsel in Lozano Smith's San Diego Office. Ms. Cordova represents public school districts, county offices of education, and special education local plan areas, focusing on various aspects of education law with a concentration on special education and student... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:15am - 11:30am PDT
Ballroom A

10:15am PDT

Bubbles of Purpose: Your Invisible Impact
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:15am - 11:30am PDT
This presentation inspires staff to embrace purposeful actions, transforming their "why" into actionable "how." By recognizing the invisible impact of their efforts, it fosters a sense of purpose, reinforces intrinsic value, and builds a culture of care, empowering mental health and educational professionals to create meaningful, lasting change in their communities.

The desired outcome is for staff to feel inspired and empowered to approach their work with intentionality and purpose, recognizing the profound yet often unseen impact of their efforts. By aligning their actions with a sense of purpose, they will foster meaningful connections, enhance their intrinsic motivation, and contribute to a positive, supportive culture within their community.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Felipe Flores

Dr. Felipe Flores

Director of Mental Health, Lake Elsinore Unified School District
Dr. Felipe J. Flores III is the dedicated Director of Mental Health at the Lake Elsinore Unified School District, bringing a wealth of experience and commitment to student well-being. His journey began in 1999 as a school photographer, where he connected with students during senior... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:15am - 11:30am PDT
Meeting Rooms 9 & 10

10:15am PDT

Riverside Police Department SRO & CBAT
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:15am - 11:30am PDT
During this session you will learn how Law Enforcement partners with Riverside County Behavioral Health to best serve students and our community during mental health crises.

Meet & Greet, open floor to ask questions, share experiences, provide resources, and describe our programs available at RPD and RUHS BH.
Speakers
avatar for Detective Johansen

Detective Johansen

Detective, Riverside Police Department
Detective Eric Johansen has been with Riverside Police Department for 10 years. He is currently assigned to Investigations. He was previously assigned as a Field Training Officer on patrol and was a School Resource Officer for over 3 years.
avatar for Officer Sears

Officer Sears

Police Officer, Riverside Police Department
Officer Phillip Sears is a Police Officer with the Riverside Police Department. Over the last 20 years of his law-enforcement career, Officer Sears has worked on patrol, been assigned to special units where he helped the community with quality-of-life issues and worked in an undercover... Read More →
avatar for Officer Hinman

Officer Hinman

Police Officer, Riverside Police Department
Officer Michael Hinman has been a Sworn police officer with the Riverside Police Department for approximately 4 years. He Graduated from the San Bernardino Sheriff's Academy in 2020.  While working with RPD he has served as a patrol officer, field training officer and has served... Read More →
avatar for Cynthia Reinhard

Cynthia Reinhard

LMFT & Professional Clinical Counselor, Riverside University Health System - Behavioral Health
Cynthia Reinhard is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Professional Clinical Counselor working for Riverside University Health System Behavioral Health on the Community Behavioral Assessment Team for Riverside Police Department. Prior to working on CBAT Cynthia worked on... Read More →
avatar for Beatriz Morales

Beatriz Morales

Clinical Therapist, Riverside University Health System - Behavioral Health
Beatriz Morales holds a master’s degree in social work from Cal State Northridge and has been a clinical therapist since 2022. Prior to joining the Community Behavioral Assessment Team, she worked with the mobile crisis response team. Before transitioning to social work and mental... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:15am - 11:30am PDT
Ballroom B

11:30am PDT

Buffet Lunch & Networking
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Raincross Ballroom

12:45pm PDT

Managing Ourselves While Helping Others
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:45pm - 2:00pm PDT
Looking into how adults who work with students who have experienced trauma can manage themselves. Looking at ways that adults can recognize how a student's trauma may impact their own reactions when working with students.

Outcome:
Build capacity for understanding when working with students who have experienced trauma while also taking care of yourself.
Speakers
avatar for Angelina Warner

Angelina Warner

Behavioral Health Therapist, Temecula Valley Unified School District
Angelina Warner has been in the mental health field for over 20 years and has been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 14 of those years. Angelina was devoted her career to working with youth with severe mental health and behaviors. She believes that all kids have value and... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:45pm - 2:00pm PDT
Meetings Room 7 & 8

12:45pm PDT

The Loneliness Epidemic and the Role of AI
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:45pm - 2:00pm PDT
Loneliness harms societal health. In adults, it is associated with a greater risk of cardiovascular disease, dementia, stroke, anxiety, and premature death. In students, a lack of friendship can result in academic underachievement, mental health issues, and impaired brain development. Current data on friendships in the workplace and schools and the growing role AI plays will be discussed. Participants will receive various swag.
  1. Attendees will understand the wide-reaching impact of loneliness on both physical and mental health, with a focus on adults and students. This will emphasize the importance of social connections in promoting societal well-being.
  2. A look into how the intersection of AI, human behavior, and social connectivity might evolve, offering a forward-thinking perspective on combating loneliness in future societies.
  3. Attendees will learn practical strategies to combat loneliness in various settings (workplaces, schools, communities), with suggestions for fostering meaningful social connections despite increasing digital interaction.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Barbara Sorter, Ed.D.

Dr. Barbara Sorter, Ed.D.

Executive Director, Special Education, Riverside County Office of Education
Dr. Sorter is the Executive Director of Special Education for Riverside County Office of Education and a Commissioner for the CDE Advisory Commission on Special Education. Dr. Sorter holds certifications in the 5 Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace, ADR & Conflict Mediation... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:45pm - 2:00pm PDT
Ballroom A

12:45pm PDT

A Window Between Worlds Art Workshop - Session 3
Wednesday May 14, 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 →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:45pm - 2:00pm PDT
Meeting Rooms 9 & 10

12:45pm PDT

Riverside Police Department SRO & CBAT
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:45pm - 2:00pm PDT
During this session you will learn how Law Enforcement partners with Riverside County Behavioral Health to best serve students and our community during mental health crises.

Meet & Greet, open floor to ask questions, share experiences, provide resources, and describe our programs available at RPD and RUHS BH.
Speakers
avatar for Detective Johansen

Detective Johansen

Detective, Riverside Police Department
Detective Eric Johansen has been with Riverside Police Department for 10 years. He is currently assigned to Investigations. He was previously assigned as a Field Training Officer on patrol and was a School Resource Officer for over 3 years.
avatar for Officer Sears

Officer Sears

Police Officer, Riverside Police Department
Officer Phillip Sears is a Police Officer with the Riverside Police Department. Over the last 20 years of his law-enforcement career, Officer Sears has worked on patrol, been assigned to special units where he helped the community with quality-of-life issues and worked in an undercover... Read More →
avatar for Officer Hinman

Officer Hinman

Police Officer, Riverside Police Department
Officer Michael Hinman has been a Sworn police officer with the Riverside Police Department for approximately 4 years. He Graduated from the San Bernardino Sheriff's Academy in 2020.  While working with RPD he has served as a patrol officer, field training officer and has served... Read More →
avatar for Cynthia Reinhard

Cynthia Reinhard

LMFT & Professional Clinical Counselor, Riverside University Health System - Behavioral Health
Cynthia Reinhard is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Professional Clinical Counselor working for Riverside University Health System Behavioral Health on the Community Behavioral Assessment Team for Riverside Police Department. Prior to working on CBAT Cynthia worked on... Read More →
avatar for Beatriz Morales

Beatriz Morales

Clinical Therapist, Riverside University Health System - Behavioral Health
Beatriz Morales holds a master’s degree in social work from Cal State Northridge and has been a clinical therapist since 2022. Prior to joining the Community Behavioral Assessment Team, she worked with the mobile crisis response team. Before transitioning to social work and mental... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:45pm - 2:00pm PDT
Ballroom B

2:00pm PDT

Afternoon Snack Break
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:15pm PDT
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:15pm PDT
Foyer

2:15pm PDT

The Road to Recovery: A Multi-Family Approach
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:15pm - 3:30pm PDT
This interactive session explores the critical role of family support in the recovery journey of adolescents struggling with substance use and recovery. Educators, counselors, and school staff will gain insights into how family dynamics can either hinder or foster recovery efforts. Attendees will learn practical strategies for collaborating with families, fostering open communication, and connecting students with appropriate resources. Through real-life case studies and evidence-based approaches, this session will empower participants to become advocates for family involvement in recovery, helping to create a strong support network for students striving toward healthier futures.

Outcomes:
  1. Increased Awareness: Attendees will understand the vital role family support plays in adolescent addiction recovery and how it positively impacts long-term success.
  2. Resource Connection: Participants will be better equipped to identify and connect families with appropriate recovery resources and community services.
Speakers
avatar for Monica Patino-Ayala

Monica Patino-Ayala

Executive Clinical Director, 417 Recovery
Monica Patino-Ayala is a licensed marriage and family therapist with over a decade of experience in mental health and addiction recovery. As the Executive Clinical Director at 417 Recovery, she specializes in guiding adolescents and their families through healing and growth. Monica... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:15pm - 3:30pm PDT
Meetings Room 7 & 8

2:15pm PDT

Empowering Growth: SEL Strategies for Elementary and Middle School Transitions
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:15pm - 3:30pm PDT
This workshop will focus on implementing social-emotional learning (SEL) strategies to support grade-level advancement through summer school and after-school programming. Presenters will provide an overview of the CASEL framework and share practical interventions aligned with each of its core competencies. Participants will explore methods for integrating SEL into school programs and engage in hands-on activities and demonstrations tailored to elementary and middle school students.
Speakers
avatar for Francisco Debaran

Francisco Debaran

Senior Behavioral Health Therapist | Pro-ACT trainer, Murrieta Valley Unified School District
Francisco Debaran is a Senior Behavioral Health Therapist and Manager of Behavioral Health Programs in the Special Education Department at Murrieta Valley Unified School District. As an ERMHS Supervisor, he oversees licensed behavioral health therapists and practicum students working... Read More →
avatar for Tiffany Lockhart

Tiffany Lockhart

Senior Behavioral Health Therapist, Murrieta Valley Unified School District
Tiffany Lockhart is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist working for the Murrieta Valley Unified School District. Since coming to the district in 2012, she has worked with students, teachers and parents to build programs to support emotional regulation for students. Tiffany is a... Read More →
avatar for Taylor Mored

Taylor Mored

Behavioral Health Therapist, Murrieta Valley Unified School District
Taylor Mored is a Behavioral Health Therapist in the Special Education Department at Murrieta Valley Unified School District. She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and has worked at Murrieta Valley Unified since 2021.Taylor supports social emotional development within the... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:15pm - 3:30pm PDT
Ballroom A

2:15pm PDT

MALHY’S RADICAL CHANGE
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:15pm - 3:30pm PDT
This panel is made up of the (Mental health. Addiction. Human trafficking. Youth literacy) M.A.L.H.Y. Board who will present information regarding strategies to keep kids and students safe from human trafficking predators. The session will also provide resources for future free collaboration and upcoming events throughout Riverside County.

Outcome:
To equip participants with the knowledge of the dangers of trafficking, substance abuse etc. Also to set up future presentations to school districts free of charge.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Jessica C.H. Smith

Dr. Jessica C.H. Smith

President, M.A.L.H.Y.
Meet Jessica, a beacon of inspiration and leadership as MALHY President of her organization. With a heart dedicated to serving others, she motivates those around her to become better individuals through active involvement in community service. Born in El Paso, Texas, Jessica’s roots... Read More →
avatar for Vicki Coffman

Vicki Coffman

Founder & Clinical Supervisor, M.A.L.H.Y.
Vicki is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in both California and Virginia and is the Founder of Encouragers Counseling & Training Centers, Inc. (ECTC) and Encouragers Family Counseling Inc. (EFC). Vicki has over 25 years of experience working as an advocate for victims of... Read More →
avatar for Sebastian Flores

Sebastian Flores

Technology Leader, Educator, & Community Advocate, M.A.L.H.Y.
Sebastian Flores is a seasoned technology expert, entrepreneur, and educator with a distinguished career in computer science, software engineering, system security, and administration. Throughout his career, he has contributed to industry-leading projects and founded multiple tech... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:15pm - 3:30pm PDT
Ballroom B
 
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