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Thursday, July 17
 

7:30am CDT

Exhibitor Time
Thursday July 17, 2025 7:30am - 8:30am CDT
Thursday July 17, 2025 7:30am - 8:30am CDT
Henry B. González Convention Center

8:30am CDT

Another Face of Trauma: High Functioning in a Dysfunctional Environment
Thursday July 17, 2025 8:30am - 9:25am CDT
Objectives:
  1. Increased Awareness: Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of trauma, its impact on individuals, and how it manifests in various settings.
  2. Enhanced Empathy: Attendees will develop stronger empathy and compassion for individuals who have experienced trauma, leading to more supportive and understanding interactions.
  3. Practical Skills: Attendees will learn practical skills and strategies to respond to trauma-informed care, including communication techniques, boundary-setting, and self-care practices.

Abstract:
This presentation will explore the impact of trauma on individuals and communities, focusing on the importance of understanding trauma-informed approaches. Attendees will gain knowledge of trauma's effects on behavior, relationships, and health, and learn practical strategies for creating supportive and healing environments.

A trauma-informed presentation will equip attendees with the knowledge and skills to:
•  Recognize the signs and symptoms of trauma
•  Understand the impact of trauma on individuals and communities
•  Implement trauma-informed practices in their work
•  Promote healing and recovery for trauma survivors

By addressing the need for trauma-informed care, we can create more supportive, compassionate, and effective systems that promote resilience and well-being.

Statement of Need: There is a critical need for trauma-informed care and practices across various sectors, including healthcare, education, social work, and criminal justice. Many individuals have experienced trauma, which can significantly impact their mental health, physical health, and overall well-being. Without appropriate understanding and response, trauma can lead to negative outcomes, including substance abuse, mental health disorders, and involvement in the criminal justice system.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Caprica Wells

Dr. Caprica Wells

Executive Director, Adult & Community Education Department, NEISD
Dr. Caprica Wells is an innovator who continues to defy the odds with strength and compassion. She is an educator who has spoken at women's conferences, youth conferences, leadership conferences, school assemblies, church services and business meetings. By using her bridge-building... Read More →
Thursday July 17, 2025 8:30am - 9:25am CDT
Stars at Night Ballroom (B1)

9:45am CDT

Becoming a Trauma Informed Care Organization: The Journey
Thursday July 17, 2025 9:45am - 11:40am CDT
Objectives:
  1. The learner will be able to state the 6 principles of Trauma Informed Care
  2. The learner will be able to provide three examples of how becoming a Trauma Informed organization can improve services
  3. The learner will be able to identify three ways that becoming a Trauma Informed Organization improves employee satisfaction.

Abstract:
We have heard the phrase “first do not harm” written by Hippocrates in his work, Of the Epidemics. When we care for patients, our goal is to provide care that is safe, helpful, and comforting.  This is why making the decision to obtain certification in Trauma Informed Care is a way to bring us closer to this goal.  In addition, obtaining certification also helps retain staff and improve the workplace environment.  As an organization works through the certification process hidden gaps in services become obvious.    We did not fully understand the far-reaching benefits of becoming a Trauma Informed Organization.  This presentation provides first hand information on our organizations experiences and opportunities for improvement as we traveled the road to Trauma Informed Care certification.  
Speakers
avatar for Carol Carver, MSN, RN

Carol Carver, MSN, RN

Senior Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Clarity Child Guidance Center
Carol began her work at Clarity as an RN staff nurse in 1982. She obtained a Masters in Nursing at Walden University and has held several leadership positions over the past 42 years including Nursing Supervisor, Director of Nursing, Acute Care Program Director and Quality Assurance... Read More →
Thursday July 17, 2025 9:45am - 11:40am CDT
302A

9:45am CDT

Commonly Used Psychotropics on Children LIMITED
Thursday July 17, 2025 9:45am - 11:40am CDT
Objectives:
  1. Identify the most common mental health issues in children and adolescents 
  2. Explore the risks and benefits of commonly used psychotropics in children and adolescents 
  3. Discuss medication compliance and evaluations 
Speakers
avatar for Lizmarie Gonzalez-Vega, MD

Lizmarie Gonzalez-Vega, MD

Senior Medical Director, Clarity Child Guidance Center
Lizmarie Gonzalez-Vega, M.D., is the Senior Medical Director at Clarity Child Guidance Center and Vice President at Southwest Psychiatric Physicians. She is a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist and offers bilingual inpatient and outpatient psychiatric services at the main campus since... Read More →
avatar for Lauren Weik, RN, BSN

Lauren Weik, RN, BSN

Clinical Informatics Registered Nurse, Clarity Child Guidance Center
Lauren Weik is a registered nurse, with over ten years of experience working in mental health with pre-adolescents and adolescents at Clarity Child Guidance Center. She provided patients and families education on psychotropic medications and psychiatric symptoms, as well as individualized... Read More →
Thursday July 17, 2025 9:45am - 11:40am CDT
301A

9:45am CDT

Cultural Insights: Supporting Families with Trans and Gender Diverse Youth in Complicated Times LIMITED
Thursday July 17, 2025 9:45am - 11:40am CDT
Objectives:
Explore the challenges families with trans and gender diverse youth face in Texas and beyond
Recognize roadblocks to providing affirming support to families of gender diverse youth
Identify tools, resources and options available to providers and families to support gender diverse youth

Abstract:
This session examines the ever-changing landscape of providing support to transgender and gender diverse youth and their families. These families face complex issues and challenges such as barriers to accessing healthcare, rejection and lack of social support, discrimination and bullying in public settings, and health disparities. Guidance and understanding from their support network can play a crucial role in creating safety and encouragement. Through a combination of data, case studies, and lived experiences, we will explore societal norms, cultural attitudes, and systemic inequalities that contribute to the marginalization and discrimination experienced by TGX individuals. This includes recognizing and addressing providers' personal biases that may hinder the provision of affirming support to these families and the myths surrounding transgender and gender diverse youth that may feed these biases. In addition, this session will highlight the tools, resources, and options available to providers and the families they serve to provide affirming support for transgender and gender diverse youth.

Statement of Need: Transgender and gender expansive youth are facing unprecedented barriers to affirmation and increased discrimination. They have a higher risk of suicidality and the trans and gender diverse community report higher ACE scores and therefore increased exposure to trauma compared to the general population. A lack of understanding around gender identity and what affirming care looks like affects the care that trans and gender expansive youth rec.
Speakers
avatar for Ginger Main Chun, LMSW

Ginger Main Chun, LMSW

Therapist, Midway Counseling
Ginger Chun is Licensed Clinical Social Worker and trainer on issues pertaining to families of transgender and gender diverse youth. She provides therapy to a diverse array of clients. She has been actively involved in education, advocacy and support with the transgender community... Read More →
Thursday July 17, 2025 9:45am - 11:40am CDT
303B

9:45am CDT

Ethics, Law, & Wellness Considerations When Working with Trauma LIMITED
Thursday July 17, 2025 9:45am - 11:40am CDT
Objectives:
  1. Understand TAC code 681 (i.e., laws related to LPCs) and laws affecting their license
  2. Understand ACA ethical standards related to working with trauma
  3. Understand how working with trauma can affect counselor wellness and come away with strategies to enhance wellness

Abstract:
Working with trauma requires a deep understanding of ethics, law, and personal wellness to ensure effective care and client safety. Counselors must navigate complex legal frameworks, including mandatory reporting laws and confidentiality protections, while maintaining ethical standards of practice. Addressing trauma involves sensitive approaches to emotional healing, requiring counselors to be culturally competent and trauma informed. This session is an interactive discussion-based program focused on counselors understanding laws and ethical standards that apply when working with trauma. Attendees with engage in large and small group discussions to gain a better understanding of these laws, ethical standards, and wellness strategies.
Speakers
avatar for Michael Moyer, Ph.D., LPC-S

Michael Moyer, Ph.D., LPC-S

Professor & Department of Counseling Chair, Texas A&M University – San Antonio
Michael Moyer, Ph.D., LPC-S is a Professor in the Department of Counseling, Health & Kinesiology at Texas A&M University – San Antonio and Faculty Fellow for Graduate Studies. He received his master’s in counseling and doctorate in counselor education and supervision from Texas... Read More →
Thursday July 17, 2025 9:45am - 11:40am CDT
302C

9:45am CDT

Human Trafficking: Training for Healthcare Professionals LIMITED
Thursday July 17, 2025 9:45am - 11:40am CDT
Objectives:
  1. Differentiate human trafficking from human smuggling and consensual commercial sex
  2. Recognize vulnerabilities, risk factors, and indicators of human trafficking
  3. Apply patient-centered interventions and strategies for healthcare providers.

Abstract:
Understanding the world of human trafficking (HT) is essential for healthcare providers who interact with patients. This training covers HT facts, as well as common misconceptions, and guides personnel to provide appropriate patient-centered responses within various practice settings. (This presentation is a state of Texas-approved Human Trafficking Course for Health Care Practitioners).
Speakers
avatar for Muriel Lanford, MSN, RN, TCRN

Muriel Lanford, MSN, RN, TCRN

Lead Medical Trainer, Ransomed Life
Muriel Lanford, a board-certified trauma nurse, holds both baccalaureate and master's degrees in nursing from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and has practiced at multiple trauma centers across the country. Ms. Lanford served 10 years as Trauma Program... Read More →
Thursday July 17, 2025 9:45am - 11:40am CDT
301B

9:45am CDT

More Than a Label: The True Value of Psychological Evaluations LIMITED
Thursday July 17, 2025 9:45am - 11:40am CDT
Objectives:
  1. Understand the deeper purpose of psychological evaluations
  2. Recognize the risks of misdiagnosis
  3. Learn to advocate for thorough, credentialed assessments
  4. Explore when medical issues may mimic psychological symptoms
Speakers
avatar for Amanda Sharp, PhD

Amanda Sharp, PhD

Founding Director, Monarch Behavioral Health
Dr. Cogorno (formally Sharp) is the founder and owner of Monarch Behavioral Health, PLLC.  She earned her Doctorate in Psychology in 2018. She has advanced training in psychological evaluation and various therapeutic modalities.  She has been conducting assessments and providing... Read More →
Thursday July 17, 2025 9:45am - 11:40am CDT
303C

9:45am CDT

Problematic Sexual Behaviors in Children LIMITED
Thursday July 17, 2025 9:45am - 11:40am CDT
Objectives:  
  • Learn to distinguish between healthy sexual development and problematic sexual behaviors 
  • Learn how to respond to sexual behaviors 
  • Teachable moments at age ranges 
  • Suspected child abuse reporting responsibilities in Texas 
 
Abstract: 
This training aims to elucidate the complex landscape of sexual behaviors in children, focusing on defining these behaviors, understanding their relationship with child development, and providing guidelines for identifying and responding to problematic sexual behaviors. Sexual behaviors in children can often raise concerns and confusion among caregivers, educators, and professionals alike. By establishing a clear framework for understanding these behaviors, we can better support children's healthy development and address concerns effectively.


Statement of Need: Learn to distinguish between healthy sexual development and maladaptive sexual behaviors while discussing appropriate procedures and responses.
Speakers
avatar for Kellee Wilkins-Hall, LCSW-S

Kellee Wilkins-Hall, LCSW-S

Director of Clinical Services, ChildSafe
Kellee Wilkins-Hall is the Director of Clinical Services at ChildSafe. She received her master’s degree in social work from The Ohio State University and is a Licensed Clinical Social Work-Supervisor (LCSW-S) in the state of Texas. She has been working in the field of child abuse... Read More →
avatar for Gladys C. Amador, LMSW

Gladys C. Amador, LMSW

Licensed Masters Social Worker, ChildSafe
Gladys Amador is a Licensed Masters Social Worker, with over 10 years of experience working in the field of trauma. Early in her career she provided educational opportunities to first responders, educators, professionals, and families on the impact of trauma and child abuse. Currently... Read More →
Thursday July 17, 2025 9:45am - 11:40am CDT
303A

9:45am CDT

Where to Begin: 5 Lessons to Help the Trauma Impacted Caregiver  LIMITED
Thursday July 17, 2025 9:45am - 11:40am CDT
Objectives:
  1. Participants will learn how to teach parents and caregivers about state-dependent functioning and how this impacts their child’s behavior. 
  2. Participants will learn 3 ways to coach self-regulation for caregivers and why this matters for de-escalation. 
  3. Participants will learn tips and environmental strategies that can be used to modify the home environment to support regulation.  

Abstract:
This presentation is designed for caregivers and family therapists working with children or adolescents with self-regulation problems. This presentation gives 5 lessons which can be used in session with caregivers and applied quickly to help increase stability and overall regulation in the home.  
Speakers
avatar for Ragan Aaron, LPC-S, RPT-S, CCTP, TBRI Practitioner

Ragan Aaron, LPC-S, RPT-S, CCTP, TBRI Practitioner

Director of Clinical Services, San Marcos Treatment Center
Ragan Aaron, LPC-S, RPT-S, CCTP, TBRI Practitioner, is the Director of Clinical Services at the San Marcos Treatment Center. In this role she is responsible for the training and supervision of the clinical therapists and the therapeutic treatment delivered to patients. This includes... Read More →
avatar for Sean Garner, LPC, RPT

Sean Garner, LPC, RPT

Director of Clinical Programming, San Marcos Treatment Center
Sean Garner, LPC, RPT, is Director of Clinical Programming at the San Marcos Treatment Center. His focus at the treatment center is staff development and training, ensuring that our entire team is trained in trauma-informed and evidence based practices. This process involves training... Read More →
Thursday July 17, 2025 9:45am - 11:40am CDT
302B

12:00pm CDT

Foster Care from Lived Experience and The Hope for Change LIMITED
Thursday July 17, 2025 12:00pm - 1:30pm CDT
Objectives:
  1. Discuss the traumatic impact of foster care on children
  2. Explore possible responses to trauma from child welfare placements
  3. Investigate strength-based approaches for meeting children's needs 

Abstract:
Children entering foster care face trauma from where they have come, which then often continues within the foster care itself. Ways to address that trauma include adopting a strengths-based approach in choosing children's placements, advancing their education and life-long outcomes, and determining the safest and quickest return to their families or achieving permanency through adoption or guardianship. This session addresses necessary changes from larger systemic reforms to individual case planning that would better meet the needs of children and families.

Statement of need: Trauma remains the most significant barrier to successful outcomes for children in our child welfare systems.
Speakers
avatar for Andrew Bridge

Andrew Bridge

Author, Consultant
Andrew Bridge spent 11 years in Los Angeles County foster care. After aging out, he attended Wesleyan University, then graduated from Harvard Law School and was awarded a Fulbright Fellowship Rockefeller Foundation Bellagio Residency. He began his legal career representing children... Read More →
Thursday July 17, 2025 12:00pm - 1:30pm CDT
Stars at Night Ballroom (B1)

1:30pm CDT

"The Child Catcher" Book Signing
Thursday July 17, 2025 1:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Following "Foster Care from Lived Experience and The Hope for Change," Andrew Bridge is available to sign his latest book, "The Child Catcher: A Fight for Justice & Truth." This David vs. Goliath story chronicles Bridge's first case litigating against the conditions in Alabama's state-run mental institutions—much like the institution he spent nearly a year in as a child before entering foster care.

Books will be available at Claritycon2025 for a $35 donation to Clarity Child Guidance Center. Click here to preorder a copy of "The Child Catcher."

Speakers
avatar for Andrew Bridge

Andrew Bridge

Author, Consultant
Andrew Bridge spent 11 years in Los Angeles County foster care. After aging out, he attended Wesleyan University, then graduated from Harvard Law School and was awarded a Fulbright Fellowship Rockefeller Foundation Bellagio Residency. He began his legal career representing children... Read More →
Thursday July 17, 2025 1:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Stars at Night Ballroom (B1)
 
claritycon2025
From $306.69
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