This interactive workshop will explore the many ways we communicate — both verbally and non-verbally — every day. Participants will examine the five styles of effective communication and their impact on relationships. The session will cover techniques for active listening, examples of effective dialogue, and how these tools can lead to successful interactions. Emphasis will also be placed on understanding body language — such as eye contact and posture — and its role in productive communication. The workshop will conclude with strategies for engaging in meaningful discussions and negotiations that lead to mutually beneficial solutions.
Brian Wellwood – CPSS
Matthew Whipple – Associate Director- Project Doors
Michelle Olson – CPSS
In this workshop, you will be able to create your own network of like-minded people that want more awareness in the mental health system. We are one but, we are mighty and together we can do so much more. Learn about the Drop-in Centers all over the state of Michigan and the value they offer our communities and peers. In this workshop, you will learn how to advocate for more wellness in our own communities and gain support from other peers. I am a CPSS and the Drop-in Center saved my life in 2012. Explore ways that you can become more involved in your community from advisory boards, to facilitating a group, to being open to the opportunities in our backyards and spreading awareness about mental health wellness.
Michelle Riger-Spicer – CPSS
Michalean McGraw
This presentation will discuss the philosophies behind substance use, harm reductions strategies, and the impact they have on individuals and communities. This interactive session addresses stigma, barriers, and successes to implementing harm reduction strategies with different communities and audiences. Audience members will be encouraged to ask questions and participate in this open dialogue.
Brooke Cross – CPRC, RCP-F
Branda Page – MS, BSN, RN, CAADC-DP, CPRC
Description pending…
Presenters Coming
The philosophy of Creativity and the Creative Exchange are a foundational creative principle and framework for improving our ability to seek meaning in our lives and to enjoy the peace that results. This foundational framework offers valuable principles for anyone seeking to develop meaning and peace in their lives, and can be used by peer support practitioners to offer the same benefit to the people they support. This presentation will cover a simple philosophical framework, relevant examples, and chances for discussion about practical application.
Ryan Christman – CPSS
Rainbow Recovery is an interactive and affirming workshop designed for peers who support LGBTQ+ adults in recovery. Using the colors of the rainbow as a thematic guide, this session explores the layered experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals navigating mental health healing. Through storytelling, group dialogue, and reflection, participants will examine how affirming identity, fostering inclusive spaces, and recognizing intersectionality can transform recovery outcomes. This workshop centers adult voices and offers practical strategies for creating safe, empowering environments within peer support and recovery programs.
Blake Harvey – CPSS
This session will provide export guidance to the complexities of the Veteran Administration (VA) system including health care support, benefit support, and understanding of burial support. Community partner connections to link veterans and support staff with local, state and national organizations. This presentation will assist veterans that are undeserved, unserved and transitioning out of the military. We will break down complex processes into simple actionable steps. Information will be provided on overcoming barriers that prevent services.
Dwayne Kelly – CPSS
Reginald Howard – CPSS
HOPE is a new way of seeing and talking about experiences that support children’s growth and development into healthy, resilient adults. Research has led us to create a new paradigm based on an understanding of how Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs) drive healthy development and can mitigate the effects of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). Through positive experiences children can form strong relationships and meaningful connections, cultivate a positive self-image and self-worth, experience a sense of belonging and build skills to cope with stress in healthy ways. HOPE will help shift our focus from a deficits-based approach to one that identifies, celebrates, and promotes access to PCE. This workshop will discuss how we can put HOPE into action.
Lisa Clavier- Founder and President, Kiersten’s Ride, Certified Trainer
