VOCAL'S MENTAL HEALTH RECOVERY NEWS FOR 7.28.14
 
In Today's Digest....
New in the Digest This Week
VOCAL News
Conferences, Workshops and Webinars
News Around the Commonwealth
Veteran's Corner
Links to Peer-Run Programs
Job Openings
Other News


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A twice-weekly electronic news-digest delivered to your inbox dedicated to keeping you informed of mental health recovery news and opportunities across the Commonwealth and the nation.

 

  
New in the Digest This Week

VOCAL Board of Directors Seeks New Member - Posted 7.28

 

The VOCAL Board of Directors is looking for a new board member who will be interested in filling the position of Board Secretary.   

 

All interested candidates please contact Yolande Long at 804.343.1777 or yolande@vocalvirginia.org 

 

Part-time Conference Coordinator Position Available with Mental Health America of Virginia (MHAV) - Posted 7.28

 

Salaried, starting at 20 hours/week

Application must be submitted by:  August 25, 2014

 

Mental Health America of Virginia (MHAV) is a registered 501(c)(3) with a mission to educate, empower and advocate on behalf of individuals, organizations and communities to improve mental health. MHAV is creating a part-time position for a Conference Coordinator to be based in our Richmond office, starting at 20 hours with the potential to grow, based upon future funding. This position currently has no benefits.

 

Responsibilities of this position include:

  • Facilitate or co-facilitate any MHAV Conferences or focus groups;
  • Schedule logistics of the trainings (admissions, site, transportation, contracts, materials) and be the main contact with the sites about any issues before or during the trainings;
  • Identify improvements and innovations MHAV can make to these conferences;
  • Assist in report and grant writing and compiling;
  • Reach out to BH service areas about MHAV programs; and
  • Research current BH services in Virginia.

The ideal candidate will have direct, personal experience using and/or working with mental health and/or substance abuse services and modeling principles of recovery and wellness. S/he will be an active, creative team member, offering support and assistance to ongoing projects and program development. Basic computer skills and competence in Microsoft Office are required. This person will be able to work independently, sometimes facilitating independently, and will be able to meet deadlines. The ability to demonstrate knowledge of the peer movement and follow through on activities is important. A clean Virginia driver's license and reliable transportation is also required.

 

MHAV is an equal opportunity employer. We actively recruit and hire qualified people without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability or sexual orientation.

 

To apply for this position, please email, fax or mail a resume, cover letter and salary requirements to:

 

Anne Edgerton, Executive Director

MHAV

2008 Bremo Road, Suite 101

Richmond, VA  23226

info@mhav.org

FAX: 804-447-7786


Northwest Peer Connect Meets August 13th - Posted 7.28 

 

NWPC will be meet on Wednesday, August 13th, at the Augusta County Library in Fishersville, from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. in the lower level.

Enter through the main entrance and turn left at the Information Help Desk and head downstairs to the meeting room on the left.

 

"Engaging Asian, South Asian and Pacific Islander Communities" - Posted 7.28 

 

Wednesday,  August 27th from 2:00 - 3:30 p.m.

Presenters: Chacku Mathai, CPRP, Director, STAR Center; Gayathri Ramprasad, MBA, CPS, Founder & President, ASHA International; andCan Truong,Consultant, Can Consulting

 

For additional registration information, please contact: tnaranjo@nami.org

 

Save the Dates: "The Use of Peer Support in State Correctional Facilities" - Posted 7. 28  

SAMHSA and the Association of State Correctional Administrators are pleased to announce a two-part webinar series focusing on the successful and innovative use of peers in state correctional facilities. Attendees will learn about the use of peers in Special Needs Units and in Reentry Planning. The first session will highlight several exemplary programs and the second session will focus on how to fund, develop, implement, sustain and expand these programs in correctional facilities. 

 

Part I, August 27th from 3:00 - 4:30 p.m.

Part II, September 3rd from 3:00 - 4:30 p.m.

 

More details to follow when available.

 

VOCAL News

 

VOCAL's Whole Health Network (VWHN) Topic #7 - Posted 7.3

 

"How do you define emotional wellness?"

 

SAMHSA defines emotional wellnes as "Coping effectively with life and creating satisfying relationships". 

Go to: http://wellness.ucr.edu/emotional_wellness.html

to learn more!

 

VOCAL's Whole Health Network (VWHN) Topic #6 - Posted 6.5

 

"What does spiritual wellness mean?"

 

SAMHSA defines spiritual wellness as: 

"expanding our sense of purpose and meaning in life" by making time for practices that enhance our sense of connection to self, nature, or others and finding a community that shares our spiritual outlook. 

 

VOCAL'S Whole Health Network (VWHN) Topic #5 - Posted 5.5

 

"Taking a Look at What Makes Up Environmental Wellness"

 

SAMHSA defines environmental wellness as: "Good health by occupying pleasant, stimulating environments that support well-being". Does where you live and/or work fit this definition? Do you find that your overall well-being is supported there?

 

VOCAL Seeks Assistance in Updating Records - Posted 3.17

 

VOCAL is updating our records. If you work in a peer center, drop-in center, or clubhouse, or if you have knowledge of a peer-run organization in your area, please send us the information. We need the following:
  1. Name of center or organization
  2. Director or contact person
  3. Address
  4. Phone number
  5. What services they provide
  6. Email address
  7. Website (if any)
Please send info to: jane@vocalvirginia.org 
Conferences, Workshops, and Webinars

 

Webinar: "Diverse Promising Practices for Engaging Youth Before and During Times of Emotional Distress: Youth, Family, and School Perspectives" - Posted 7.24

 
Wednesday, August 6, from 3:00 - 4:30 p.m.
 

Webinar Presentations Now Available Online - Posted 7.21

 

 Three recent webinar presentations:

1 - Expanding Your Social Media Presence, 

2 - Successful Crowdfunding: Tips, Tricks, and Lessons Learned, and 

3 - Get Social! Using Social Media to Advance Your Mission, Raise Awareness, and Provide Peer Support, are now available online at: http://power2u.org/information-technology.html

 

BRSS TACS Free Webinar: "Recovery-Oriented Services for Veterans" - Posted 7.21

 

August 14th, 1:00 p.m.

 

To register

Questions regarding this webinar can be submitted to Nick Mirin at

   

National Council for Behavioral Health's Free Webinar: "A Journey to Recovery: What Does the Cigarette Represent" - Posted 7.21

 

Tuesday, July 29, 2:00-3:30 p.m.

https://www.thenationalcouncil.org/events-and-training/webinars/

 

BRSS TACS: "Gender-Responsive, Trauma-Informed Supports for Women in Recovery" - Posted 7.21

 

Friday,  August 1st from 12:00-1:00 p.m.

 

Call-in #: 888-407-5039 (PIN 556 82 342)

 

First Fridays with BRSS TACS is an opportunity for participants to meet with nationally recognized leaders to discuss specific topics each month. Participants join by calling the phone number provided and entering the "Adobe Connect Room" online by clicking the link provided.      

 

NAMI National Convention in September - Posted 7.21

 

For information, go to:  http://www.nami.org/template.cfm?section=convention    

 

Webinar: Providing Culturally Competent and Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Affirmative Care - Posted 7.14

 

August 7th, 3:00 - 4:30 p.m.

 

 https://www3.gotomeeting.com/register/972831318  

 

"How Journalists Report Behavioral Health Issues" - Posted 7.10

 

Watch the interactive webcast that SAMHSA, in partnership with EIC, held on Tuesday, June 24. Panelists shared important information regarding the importance of using fair, correct, and respectful terminology to depict behavioral health issues and individuals affected by them. Panelists shed light on their experiences, both firsthand and professional, focusing on the power of journalism to reduce discrimination against people seeking treatment or in recovery from behavioral health issues. Specific issues included prescription drug abuse, substance use disorders, and co-occurring disorders.

  

http://www.eicnetwork.tv/Events/SAMHSA_June2014.aspx 

 

"Shared Decision Making in Behavioral Health - Posted 7.10

 

SAMHSA's BRSS TACS is launching a new training and technical assistance program to help organizations incorporate shared decision making principles, practices, and tools into peer support services, mental health services, substance use services, or integrated care settings.

This is a rare opportunity to participate in a collaborative learning process about implementing shared decision making in behavioral health and get support to design and initiate a shared decision making project within your organization or program. 

This structured program includes three related components:

  1. Virtual classroom program offering at least 6 hours of live, interactive online training on shared decision making in behavioral health. The first virtual classroom will begin in September 2014.
  2. Seminar program providing virtual technical assistance and collegial support for your implementation project. Limited on-site training and technical assistance may be available to approved agencies or programs. Completion of the virtual classroom program is pre-requisite to participating in the seminar program.
  3. A community of practice to provide ongoing collegial support, information exchange and networking, and opportunities to provide input on SAMHSA's developing shared decision making tools and resources for behavioral health.

Interested?  Applications are being accepted until July 25 for the fall program.  To receive an application, contact Tahisha Victor at:

 

Fairfax Falls Church W.R.A.P. - Posted 7.7 

 

http://www.fairfaxfallschurchwrap.org

 

Registration is Open for Alternatives 2014!  - Posted 6.23

 

To register for the conference, and/or to book a hotel room, go to the Alternatives 2014 website and see the links on the navigation bar at the left. Click on the URL below to go to the Alternatives 2014 website:   

 

Northern Virginia Language Access Leadership Conference - "Make It Happen!" - Posted 6.23
 
Wednesday, September 24, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 p.m.
George Mason University - Founders Hall
3351 N. Fairfax Drive, Arlington (22201)
 

 

Mental Health America's Annual Conference in Atlanta, September 10-12 - Posted 5.12

 

 

News Around the Commonwealth

 

"Yoga of Recovery" at Yogaville in September- Posted 7.24
 

Integrates the 12 steps and principles of Hatha Yoga and Aryuveda  

 

Go to: http://yogaofrecovery.com/about-yoga-of-recovery/

 

Save the Date! "Embracing Cultural Difference in Community Living": A Culturally Informed Planning Institute - Posted 7.17

 

October 16th from 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

St. James Episcopal Church

1205 W. Franklin Street, Richmond (23220)

More information to follow when available.

 
Survivors and Thrivers: A Co-Ed Support Group for Sexual Abuse and Rape - Posted 6.30
 
Mondays at 7:00 p.m. -8:30 p.m.
SAARA Center
306 Turner Road Suite P Richmond, VA 23225
 
NAMI Central Virginia Meeting News - Posted 6.26

NAMI-CVA holds a general meeting at 7:00 p.m. on the 2nd Thursday of each month at the Weinstein Jewish Community Center at 5403 Monument Avenue in Richmond. These meetings feature professional speakers, refreshments, and are free and open to the public. There are no meetings in the summer.

Mark you calendar for the next series beginning September 11th with the Chesterfield Chief Emergency Services update on the Triage Center at Chippenham Hospital.
   

Mindful Writing I: Introductory - at U.V.A. - Posted 6.26

 

This is a 6-week workshop that uses mindfulness to access the inner voice that we all have, which leads to the authentic self. We will explore how to integrate mindfulness not only into our writing practice but also into our own deepening relationship with the creative process in general.  Several mediation techniques and avenues of mindfulness will be utilized as we learn to write from a place of grounding, to integrate sense awareness into our process, and to trust in words that arise from a place other than the intellect.

No writing experience is necessary -  just the desire to further explore your depths through the creative art of writing and how mindfulness can help you access that. This is not your high school creative writing class with its focus on syntax and judgmental criticism - integral to the process is creating a safe environment for listening to the work of peers in a nonjudgmental and supportive manner within a community of creative souls.

This is an opportunity to let the barriers that prevent you from speaking your truth dissolve with the guidance of an experienced teacher who in knowledgeable about the writing process and the possibilities that can unfold. 
 

September 15 - October 20
Mondays, 6:00 - 8:30 pm
Instructor: Susanna Williams
Location: West Complex, Clinical Department wing, facing Hospital Dr. (Elevator D), 6th floor conference room
Cost: $250

Dates: September 16 - October 21
Tuesdays, 3:00 - 5:30 pm
Instructor: Susanna Williams
Location: West Complex, Clinical Department wing, facing Hospital Dr. (Elevator D), 6th floor conference room
Cost: $250

 

 Register here

 

Fellowship Coffee on Saturdays at "84 Main", Warsaw - Posted 6.16

 

804.333.3581 for information 

 

On Our Own of Roanoke Valley Offers Peer Support Groups - Posted 6.16

 

For information, call: 540.362.0061 

 

Veteran's Corner

Virginia Wounded Warrior Program Link - Posted 7.24   

 

http://www.wearevirginiaveterans.org/ 

 

From Health Day News: "More U.S. Service Members in Treatment for Mental Health Disorders" - Posted 6.19

Veterans Peer Support Group at On Our Own of Roanoke - Posted 6.2

 

Every Monday at 1 p.m.

540-362-0061

 

New Tool Connects Vets and Employers - Posted 5.5

 

The Veterans Employment Center, an inter-agency collaboration from the White House's Joining Forces initiative, has announced a new online tool to provide veterans with employment resources. ebenefits.va.govwill connect veterans and service members with public and private sector employers who are looking to hire people with military experience, including individuals with disabilities.

 

For more information and employer resources, visit www.AskEARN.org. 

 

Links to MH Peer-Run Programs in Virginia
Arlington Peers Helping Peers in Recovery 
www.aphpr-rpsva.org

Reston Drop-In Center
 
Consumer Wellness Center (Annandale)
 
Recovery In Motion ( Fredericksburg)  
www.recovery-in-motion.org

Blacksburg Computer Empowerment Services
http://computerempowerment.net/about.htm
  
Friends4Recovery Whole Health Center (Richmond)
Center for Recovery and Wellness (Lynchburg)
http://centerforrecoveryandwellness.org/calendar/

Trillium Drop-In Center (Woodbridge)
http://pwdropincenter.org/calendar.php

On Our Own of Roanoke Valley
http://rvonourown.com/Events.aspx

WeCare, Inc (Martinsville)
http://wecaremhc.org/?page_id=42

On Our Own of Charlottesville
http://wwhttp://www.saara.org/events-calendar.phpw.onourowncville.org/structure.html

84 Main (Warsaw)
804.333.3581

Recovery Resources and Support
http://www.rrs4hope.com/

The Laurie Mitchell Empowerment and Career Center (Alexandria)
  
Other Program Information:

 

Virginia Peer Support Coalition (Virginia)
  
Mental Health America of Virginia (MHAV)
http://mhav.org

Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance of Falls Church
ANC436@aol.com 

NAMI Virginia (National Alliance on Mental Illness)
http://namivirginia.org/

NAMI Central Virginia (National Alliance on Mental Illness)
http://www.namicentralvirginia.org

SAARA of Virginia (Richmond)
http://www.saara.org/events-calendar.php

Spiritworks Foundation Center for Recovery of the Soul (Williamsburg)
http://www.spiritworksfoundation.org/events-calendar/

 

Job Openings

 

PT Peer Recovery Support Coordinator Position at Mental Health America of Virginia - Posted 7.14

 

Salaried, starting at 20 hours/week

Application must be submitted by August 11th

 

Mental Health America of Virginia (MHAV) is a registered 501(c)(3) with a mission to educate, empower and advocate on behalf of individuals, organizations and communities to improve mental health. MHAV is creating a part-time position for a Peer Support Coordinator to be based in our Richmond office, starting at 20 hours with the potential to grow, based upon future funding. This position currently has no benefits.

 

Responsibilities of this position include:

  • Provide support, information and networking  to peer specialists and recovery coaches  throughout the Commonwealth;
  • Connect mentors and mentees, and notification of internship opportunities;
  • Provide information on the certification status in Virginia;
  • Facilitate focus and support groups as requested by peers throughout the state;
  • Build database of peer support and recovery coaches, and
  • Any other duties deemed appropriate to achieve the goals of the project.

The ideal candidate will have direct, personal experience using and/or working with mental health and/or substance abuse services and modeling principles of recovery and wellness. S/he will be an active, creative team member, offering support and assistance to ongoing projects. Basic computer skills and competence in Microsoft Office are required. This person will be able to work independently on projects and meet deadlines. The ability to demonstrate knowledge of the peer movement and follow through on activities is important. A clean Virginia driver's license and reliable transportation is also required.

 

MHAV is an equal opportunity employer that actively recruits and hires qualified people who may have disabilities without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age or sexual orientation.

 

To apply for this position, please email, fax or mail a resume, cover letter and salary requirements to:

 

Anne Edgerton, Executive Director, MHAV

2008 Bremo Road, Suite 101

Richmond, VA  23226

info@mhav.org

FAX: 804-447-7786


 

Peer Support Specialist Position Open at Crossroads CSB - Posted 7.14

 

Full time position to provide peer support and act as an advocate to individuals receiving services in a mental health/substance abuse outpatient clinic located in Farmville. The incumbent will carry out rehabilitation support functions, education and advocacy in agency and community settings and serves as a role model for mental health and/or substance abuse recovery. Valid Virginia driver's license and acceptable driving record required. Negotiable salary based on experience with excellent fringe benefits. Position will be recruited until filled. Position #1670. PEER SUPPORT SPECIALIST

 

Go to: http://www.crossroadscsb.org/ 

and click on Current Employment Opportunities to see the job posting. Click on Application for Employment to apply.

 

Advance Directives Implementation Coordinator Job Description - Posted 7.10

 

The University of Virginia, Institute of Law, Psychiatry, and Public Policy, in collaboration with the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS), is seeking applicants for an Advance Directives Implementation Coordinator position. The Coordinator will organize and facilitate efforts to implement the use of advance directives by Community Service Boards, state and private hospitals, peer and advocacy groups, and other relevant health care organizations. The Coordinator serves as a liaison between project leadership and local organizations, and is integrally involved in the development of resources, inter-agency partnerships, and an infrastructure that supports the wide use of Advance Directives in Virginia.

 

The Advance Directives Implementation Coordinator position is part-time (approximately 28 hours per week) without benefits. The Coordinator will work at the DBHDS offices in Richmond. The Coordinator also will travel throughout the Commonwealth, as needed, for presentations, meetings, and trainings (travel costs for statewide trips will be reimbursed). Experience in relevant areas such as mental health care, social work, public health, health policy, and the like, is desirable. A master's-level degree in a relevant field or equivalent training is preferred but not required.

 

To be considered for the position an application must be completed -- go to:

http://www.hr.virginia.edu/

1. From the banner at the top right, click on "Jobs@UVA"

2. From the list on the left side of the screen, click "Create Application"

3. Under "Create New Application" click on "Temp Application" and click "Go"

4. Complete and submit application information

5. After completing/submitting your application please send an email to Kyle Massie (kkm4m@virginia.edu) and Janet Turner-Giles (

jmt4q@virginia.edu) to let them know you have submitted a Temp Position application and you are interested in being considered for the Advance Directives Implementation Coordinator position.

 

Position Open: State Human Rights Director (Program Admin Manager III) - Posted 7.7

 

The Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services' Office of Human Rights is seeking a highly skilled professional to direct and manage the Department's statewide Human Rights program through the following activities: maintaining a comprehensive program of effective advocacy, including mechanisms for receiving and investigating complaints and facilitating resolution in a timely manner; recruit, support, and training of local and state human rights committee members; promotion and monitoring of provider compliance with the regulations; and system wide training on human rights.   Provide supervision, direction and training to Office of Human Rights, Office of CO Abuse Investigation and DBHDS Privacy Officer.  Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of programs including Human Rights, CO Abuse Investigations and Privacy.  Integrate Human Rights into all aspects of Departmental Operations.

 

QUALIFICATIONS:  Ability to manage a statewide program with demonstrated progressively responsible management experience.  Demonstrated experience in managing professionals in a large, complex organization.  Skill in planning, data analysis, program evaluation and monitoring. Extensive experience with monitoring program compliance and service quality. Experience monitoring and developing quality improvement activities.  Experience in human rights advocacy or a related occupation, which includes conflict resolution, client intervention and case investigation.  Significant experience and knowledge in human service delivery systems and Medicaid funded programs.   Excellent verbal and written communication skills.  Advanced degree in social science or related field preferred (i.e., social work administration, public administration, etc.). Direct training & experience may be considered in lieu of educational requirements. 

 

Position: #00248; Salary: $54,580-$85,000

 

Please apply online with the Recruitment Management System at http://jobs.virginia.gov/.   Only accepting online applications.  This position is open until filled.  DBHDS is a tobacco-free, smoke-free work environment.  

 

www.dbhds.virginia.gov

 

An Equal Opportunity Employer Committed to Workforce Diversity

 

 

Other News

 

Call for Proposals: Wellness Works for National Wellness Week - Posted 7.24


 

http://www.peerlink-wellnessworks.org/

 

My Son Says: "If You Are Afraid To Tell Your Story, Stigma Wins" - Posted 7.21


 

Read it here


 

SAMHSA Disaster App Gives Responders Ready Access to Critical Resources - Posted 7.17


 

A free smart phone application created by SAMHSA makes it easier for behavioral health responders to focus on disaster survivors by providing them quick access to resources for getting help.


 

http://www.samhsa.gov/newsroom/advisories/1406234403.aspx  


 

Program Promotes Recovery in Community - Posted 7.10


 

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports on  a program that promotes recovery in the community by assigning peer specialists to those who are being discharged from the county psychiatric hospital.  


 

 

Magellan Publishes Recovery and Resiliency Resource E-Guide - Posted 5.8

 

This resource guide provides "Recovery Resources" to members, parents, and loved ones who are interested in advocacy, peer support and/or family support organizations that provide a variety of programs and assistance for individuals living with mental health and or substance use disorders. The list includes state/government agencies, statewide non-profit organizations and local resources. There are many links throughout the document for easy navigation.

 

The guide is available on Magellan's website at  http://www.magellanofvirginia.com/.  The link is located toward the bottom of the web page in the "Spotlight On . . ." section.  


 

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DISCLAIMER:

This page is offered strictly for informational and support purposes.  We assume no liability whatsoever for any consequences arising out your use of information or connections provided through any of the above organizations. VOCAL does not necessarily agree with information provided by these organizations, their websites, members or other affiliations.