mental health conference

Behavioral Issues & Substance Use Among Children & Adolescents:

April 10-11, 2015

Prevention & Interventions

COUNSELING & PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES

Register at: utpa.edu/ce

Conference Schedule At a Glance

Friday, April 10 : Conference Day 1

Saturday, April 11 : Conference Day 2

8:00am- 8:30am Registration Ballroom

8:30am-9:30am Welcome Ballroom

9:30am-10:10am Keynote Ballroom

10:30am-12:00pm Breakout A Various Breakouts

Lunch Ballroom

1:20pm-2:20pm Breakout B Various Breakouts

2:30pm-3:30pm Breakout C Various Breakouts

3:40pm-4:40pm Breakout D Various Breakouts

12:10pm-1:10pm

8:00am- 8:30am Registration Ballroom

8:30am-9:30am Keynote Ballroom

9:40am-10:40pm Breakout A Various Breakouts

Lunch Ballroom

10:50pm-11:50pm Breakout B Various Breakouts

1:40pm-2:40pm Breakout C Various Breakouts

2:50pm-3:50pm Breakout D Various Breakouts

12:00pm-1:30pm

Prevention & Interventions

Register at: utpa.edu/ce

ContentsConference Overview 04Detailed Program 05Presenters Profiles 10Accommodations 14Map 15

Dr. Eugenia Curet, Chair

Mr. Mauro Ruiz, Co-Chair

Dr. Sudershan Pasupuleti

Ms. Jayshree Bhat

Ms. Cristina Trejo

Ms. Marisa Ugalde

Mrs. Shawntell Triplett

Mr. Armando Galvan-Cruces

Co-Sponsors

DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL WORK

Conference Planning Committee Ms. Tonya Paulette

Ms. Delanea Arredondo

Ms. Azalia Cuevas

ConferenceOverview

On July 14, 2013 the UTPA Counseling and Psychological Services (CaPS) in collaboration with the Texas Department of

State Health Services and the Rio Grande Mental Health Coalition sponsored a Community Forum on “Speak Your Mind

– Conversations about the Mental Health Needs of our Community”. As a follow-up to the event, the Texas Department of

State Health Services in collaboration with the UTPA CaPS, the Department of Social Work and the Department of

Continuing Education are having a mental health conference focusing on behavioral and substance use among children and

adolescents.

The main objectives of the conference are:

To bring awareness and understanding about the various behavioral and substance use issues faced by children and

adolescents and the impact on their adjustment to school and family life;

To facilitate involvement of the larger professional community and interested individuals in the promotion of

interdisciplinary and interagency collaboration for the better use of existing resources;

To impart the need for the continued and enhanced development of treatment intervention and prevention skills that

would adequately equip our professional community to efficiently address the behavioral and substance use

problems that impact our children and adolescents’ successful achievement of personal and academic goals.

In addition, we expect that the participants will be able to gain overall understanding about mental illness that can

assist with the de-stigmatization of treatment seeking behaviors by those in need.

CEU’s, Special Accommodations & General InformationCONTINUING EDUCATION UNITS6 CEU hours daily (12 total) will be available for social workers, counselors, psychologists, and law enforcement professionals .

CANCELLATION POLICY. To cancel your registration and receive a full refund, you must submit a written request to [email protected] no later than April 7th, 2015. There will be no refunds after this deadline.

SPECIAL ACCOMODATIONSUTPAA Counseling and Psychological Services wishes to take steps to ensure that no physically challenged person is excluded, denied services, segregated, or otherwise treated differently than other individuals because of the absence of auxiliary aids and services. If you require any auxiliary aids or services identified in the American with Disabilities Act, please indicate so on your registration form. The department will strive to accommodate persons requiring special assistance.

CONFERENCE PROCEEDSConference Proceeds will support UTPA’s Student Food Pantry & Zen Recovery Center.

LOCATIONThe University of Texas-Pan American 1201 W University Drive , Edinburg, TX 78539 | University Center Ballroom For more information or questions, please contact the Office of Continuing Education at (956) 665-2071 or fax (956) 928-1445 or e-mail: [email protected] 4

Detailed Program

Welcome Eugenia Curet Ph.D., LCSW, ACSW and Mr. Mauro Ruiz

Opening RemarksFrancisco Fernandez, M.D., Founding Dean, UTRGV Medical School

Recognition of Dr. Hermila Anzaldua for her contribution to the Social Work Profession Sudershan Pasupuleti Ph.D.

Recognition of Dr. Martha Cantu, Vice President for Student Affairs, for her contribution to the wellbeing and success of UTPA students

Mari Fuentes-Martin Ed.D.

8:30am - 9:30amWelcomeBallroom

Autism Conversations in Narrative Practice: Supporting Children and Adolescents on the Spectrum and Their Families

Marilyn J. Monteiro, Ph.D

9:30am - 10:10amKeynotePresentation

Breakout AA.1. Training for Suicide Prevention Interventions

This presentation will address myths held about suicide prevention as well as prevention interventions that non-professional persons can utilize to influence someone from completing suicide. During the training we will cover statistics about suicide, with a focus on certain vulnerable groups as well as youth and college-aged students. The training will also prepare participants to detect the risk factors and warning signs of someone who might be suicidal, as well as ways to persuade the person to stay alive and resources where they can refer them for help.

Ayaciuan Madrigal, M.A. LPI, Jorge Munoz, LMSW, &Marianela Guzman, BA, MSW-C

10:30am - 12:00pmBallroom

Bronc Room A.2. Autism Conversations in Narrative Practice: Supporting Young Adults and Their Families

Mental health practitioners are increasingly expected to recognize and treat children and adolescents with autism spectrum differences and their families. This session provides participants with a practical framework for understanding autism brain style differences across the spectrum. How clinicians talk to children, adolescents, and young adults and their parents about autism differences is critical in promoting mental health, resiliency, and self-determination. Participants will leave this session with practical strategies to apply in their work with this ever-increasing population of children, adolescents, young adults, and their families

Marilyn J. Monteiro, Ph.D

Friday, April 10: Conference Day 1

Registration 8:00am - 8:30amRegistration

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Bullying and Civil Rights VideoSuicide Prevention in the School Community

Youth suicide continues to be a major concern in the United States. This presentation will review current data and research regarding youth suicide with a focus on school suicide prevention practices. Components of comprehen-sive suicide prevention program will be explored, and the presenter will also discuss the impact of cultural influenc-es, bullying and sexual orientation on adolescent suicidal behavior. This session will conclude with a discussion of the role of school mental health professionals in suicide prevention efforts.

Frank John Zenere III

12:10pm - 1:10pm

Lunch

Ballroom

Breakout BB.1. Compassionate Counseling: Integrating Psycho-spiritual and Compassion Focus Techniques with Existing Theoretical Orientations

While the spiritual well-being of clients has generally been acknowledged as part of the therapeutic environment, in recent years the growth of the Mindfulness movement has allowed for a resurgence of interest in different approaches and techniques. From a holistic-wellness perspective, it is essential for therapists and counselors to be comfortable and competent in dealing with issues around spirituality. Since spirituality is a connection with our deeper selves and our interconnectedness, it is as important as any other multicultural competency. Each interactive session offers caregivers a practical integration of compassion and spirituality with their existing theoretical orientation to further expand their opportunity to serve at-risk clients.

Yvette Seltz, MA, ABD

B.2. Expanding The Role of Promotores in The School System

The history of Promotores and the impact of Promotores in the health care system has been well documented. But Promotores are skilled in 8 core competencies, of which, are instrumental in addressing some of the challenges faced by the school system in today's multicultural communities at risk.

Venus Gines, M.S.

Breakout CC.1. Infant, Child and Adolescent Mental Health: Update on The DSM-5

The DSM-5 represents a significant change from its antecedents. The changes reflect advances in neuroscience, brain imaging, and genetics. This seminar will focus on changes in disorders that impact infants, children, and adolescents to enable participants to accurately diagnose. Case situations will be presented to illustrate various disorders. Material will be presented to inform participants of resources available in the community for these disorders.

Janis Feldman, Ph.D., ACSW

C.2. The Muddy Waters of Ethics

This workshop addresses a contemporary ethical issue: technology and practice.

Dorinda Noble, Ph. D

1:20pm - 2:20pmBallroom

Bronc Room

2:30pm - 3:30pmBronc Room

Cenizo Room

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Breakout DD.1. Dating and Relationship Violence In Adolescents, Implications For Treatment

This session provides participants with strategies on how to detect warning signs of dating and relationship violence in adolescents. It will identify difference between healthy and harmful relationships, and it will identify the effects of the abuse on the adolescent’s mental health. Participants will leave this session with practical strategies/interventions on how to treat the effects of the violence when working with teens/adolescents who are or have been in a violent relationship.

Marisa G. Ugalde, LMSW, CCTP

D.2. Effects of Substance Use on Cognitive Functioning in Adolescents

The presentation will focus on the nexus between substance use and cognitive function among adolescents. Under-standing effects of substance use and alcohol is imperative as their use is on rise among adolescents and young adults. There is substantive evidence from recent research on the changes in brain structure and neurocognitive functions due to substance use. These changes cause cognitive deficits which would have adverse effects on their academic and occupational performance and social functioning and they extend into adulthood as well (Casey, Jones & Hare, 2008).

Sudershan Pasupuleti, Ph.D.

Saturday, April 11: Conference Day 2

8:30am - 9:30am

Keynote

BallroomMoving Beyond the ADHD Label: A Call for Paradigmatic Change in Therapeutic Perspectives

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) continues to be redefined and reclassified as is evident with the latest version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-V). This presentation will review the changing therapeutic and diagnostic landscape and the implications for counselors, social workers, school counselors, and education professionals. Particular attention will be given to rural populations in South Texas who continue to experience a lack of mental health resources. Participants will be challenged to review their current practices and incorporate a network approach as it particularly relates to school age children within those rural districts.

Steve Bain , Ph.D., LPC-S

Registration 8:00am - 8:30amRegistration

Ballroom

3:40pm - 4:40pm

Bronc Room

Ballroom

7

C.3. An Overview: Students Who Self-Mutilate

Self-mutilation is a behavior that some students exhibit. Understanding the causes of self-mutilation is extremely important in knowing how to prevent students from exhibiting these behaviors or intervening once they are already engaged in self-mutilation. This presentation will focus on providing an overview of students who self-mutilate.

Nancy Peña Razo, Ph.D., LSSP

A.2. Dating and Relationship Violence In Adolescents, Implications for Treatment

This session provides participants with strategies on how to detect warning signs of dating and relationship violence in adolescents. It will identify difference between healthy and harmful relationships, and it will identify the effects of the abuse on the adolescent’s mental health. Participants will leave this session with practical strategies/interven-tions on how to treat the effects of the violence when working with teens/adolescents who are or have been in a violent relationship.

Marisa Ugalde, LMSW, CCTP

Breakout BB.1. Mental Health & Substance Abuse

The Stop A Suicide Today newsletter (July 2007) indicates that abusing illicit drugs is common among adolescents and young adults who commit suicide. There is further indication that the use of illicit drugs is often a form of self-medication for mental health disorders among this population. This workshop will address the need for an integrated treatment approach for mental health and substance use treatment and suicide prevention when providing services to adolescents and young adults.

Eugenia Curet, Ph.D., LCSW, ACSW

B.2. Therapy With Anxious Children

This training will offer clinicians an overview of how to use Play Therapy techniques in the treatment of children’s anxiety disorders.

Velma Schmidt, LPC, RPT-S

10:50am - 11:50pm

STAC 1.101

STAC 1.102

A.3. Compassionate Counseling: Integrating Psycho-spiritual and Compassion Focus Techniques With Existing Theoretical Orientations

While the spiritual well-being of clients has generally been acknowledged as part of the therapeutic environment, in recent years the growth of the Mindfulness movement has allowed for a resurgence of interest in different approaches and techniques. From a holistic-wellness perspective, it is essential for therapists and counselors to be comfortable and competent in dealing with issues around spirituality. Since spirituality is a connection with our deeper selves and our interconnectedness, it is as important as any other multicultural competency. Each interactive session offers caregivers a practical integration of compassion and spirituality with their existing theoretical orienta-tion to further expand their opportunity to serve at-risk clients.

Yvette Hernandez-Seltz, MA, ABD

9:40am - 10:40am

STAC 1.101

STAC 1.102

STAC 1.103

Breakout AA.1. Training for Suicide Prevention Interventions

This presentation will address myths held about suicide prevention as well as prevention interventions that non-pro-fessional persons can utilize to influence someone from completing suicide. During the training we will cover statistics about suicide, with a focus on certain vulnerable groups as well as youth and college-aged students. The training will also prepare participants to detect the risk factors and warning signs of someone who might be suicidal, as well as ways to persuade the person to stay alive and resources where they can refer them for help.

Ayaciuan Madrigal, M.A. LPI, Jorge Muñoz, LMSW & Marianela Guzman, BA, MSW-C

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Breakout CC.1. Inside the Mind of an Undocumented Immigrant Child

In this session, we’ll review the stories of three undocumented young people and see how their experiences align with different stages of psychological development. We will examine the potential pitfalls these children could face while growing up in their adopted home. We will then shift to a conversation about treatment. How can this population be better served? Why is it important to address these issues? How can we advance our understanding of the struggles these children undergo?

Ted HessonC.2. Self Injury: Kids on The Cutting Edge

This session will inform participants of the significance and implications of the phenomenon of self-injury in South Texas. Attention will be given to rationale for the diagnosis, contemporary issues facing therapists and clients, and practical suggestions for effective therapeutic intervention strategies within the rural areas of South Texas.

Steve Bain, Ph.D., LPC-S

1:40pm - 2:40pm

STAC 1.101

STAC 1.102

Breakout DD.1. DSM - 5 With Adolescents


Janis B. Feldman, Ph.D., ACSWD.2. The Muddy Waters of Ethics


Dorinda Noble, Ph.D.

D.3. Mental Health Law Enforcement Officers: Approach and Protocol for Dealing With Situations Involving Mental Health Issues

Upon completion of this session, participants will be familiar with the law enforcement requirements for mental health commitments as described in the Texas Health and Safety Code, including: the resistance and control continuum; non-lethal options officers have for controlling subjects; verbal de-escalation techniques; advantages of Crisis Intervention Techniques; the types of persons law enforcement generally encounter (mentally ill person who is a danger to self and/or others); some techniques officers use to work with developmentally delayed individuals, including those with Autism.

Chief Paul R. Williams, LCC, MPA

2:50pm - 3:50pm

STAC 1.101

STAC 1.102

STAC 1.103

Understanding PTSD Reunification Issues Amongst Returning Veterans

Ebony O. Butler, Ph.D.; Karen Lara, MS; Arlene Laboy, Dr. Cooks Allen

STAC 1.103

12:00pm - 1:30pm

LunchBallroom

B.3. “Through the Looking Glass”…What Alice Didn’t See: Why Children and Adolescents Abuse Substances and What Families and Schools Can Do About It.

The prevalence of legal and illegal substances that can be abused by youth has increased over the years. The South Texas Border has been known for years as a “High Intensity Zone” by the DEA and other federal agencies for the trafficking of drugs. So much so that it has become part of the hidden economy of the Rio Grande Valley politically and socio-economically. The result is that the intensity of exposure to children and adolescents has increased enormously. IAt the end of the presentation participants will have a basic practical knowledge and tools to begin to understand and to assist youth in resisting the use and abuse of legal and illegal substances.

Miguel Lopez, LMSW, LCDC & Jorge Muñoz, LMSW

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Breakout BB.1. Compassionate Counseling: Integrating Psycho-spiritual and Compassion Focus Techniques with Existing Theoretical Orientations

While the spiritual well-being of clients has generally been acknowledged as part of the therapeutic environment, in recent years the growth of the Mindfulness movement has allowed for a resurgence of interest in different approaches and techniques. From a holistic-wellness perspective, it is essential for therapists and counselors to be comfortable and competent in dealing with issues around spirituality. Since spirituality is a connection with our deeper selves and our interconnectedness, it is as important as any other multicultural competency. Each interactive session offers caregivers a practical integration of compassion and spirituality with their existing theoretical orientation to further expand their opportunity to serve at-risk clients.

Yvette Seltz, MA, ABD

B.2. Expanding The Role of Promotores in The School System

The history of Promotores and the impact of Promotores in the health care system has been well documented. But Promotores are skilled in 8 core competencies, of which, are instrumental in addressing some of the challenges faced by the school system in today's multicultural communities at risk.

Venus Gines, M.S.

Breakout CC.1. Infant, Child and Adolescent Mental Health: Update on The DSM-5



C.2. The Muddy Waters of Ethics


Dorinda Noble, Ph. D

PresentersProfiles

Dr. Monteiro has been evaluating and treating children, adolescents and adults with autism spectrum differences for 30 years. She is the author of a book for autism evaluators and of a clinical interview protocol widely used in schools and clinical settings to assist in the identification of individuals with high-functioning forms of autism. She has trained clinicians nationally and internationally and maintains an independent clinical practice specializing in effective intervention supports for individuals with autism spectrum differences and their families. She is currently completing a book for the Routledge publications family therapy series on autism spectrum differences and narrative therapy techniques.

Marilyn J. Monteiro, Ph.D.

Yvette Hernandez-Seltz, MA, ABDMs.Yvette Hemandez-Seltz has an MS in Industrial Organizational Psychology. She is currently at the dissertation stage for her PhD in Clinical Psychology. Her research has focused on Leadership and Emotional Intelligence, The Role of Gender and Self-Esteem in Influencing Attribution of Behavior and Self-Rating of Performance, and The Influence of Culture in Effective Counseling Outcomes. In addition to providing individual and group counseling, Hemandez-Seltz regularly conducts Leadership and Organizational Change Seminars, teaches and develops University Degree programs and provides consultation on psycho-spiritual counseling for prison inmates.

Ms. Marianela Guzman is a Psychology major from The University of Texas at Brownsville. She is currently pursuing a Masters of Science in Social Work degree from The University of Texas at Austin and aspires to become an LCSW in order to provide mental health services to undeserved populations , especially Latinos. Before moving to Austin, Marianela worked at the University of Texas at Brownsville- Student Health Services for three years. During this time, she worked with the HIV/STD Prevention Program and the Campus Suicide Prevention Program coordinating trainings and events. She is a certified suicide prevention instructor and has conducted trainings for hundreds of individuals including students, nurses, law enforcement, and social service professionals.

Marianela Guzman, BA, MSW-C

Mr. Jorge Munoz is licensed by the Texas State Board of Social Workers as a LMSW. He has been a suicide prevention instructor for the past three years and has aided in training the UTB campus community, Brownsville Police Department, local lSD counselors, nurses and administrators. Mr. Munoz has also been involved in presenting on the topic of bullying and its effects on youth, HIV/STI Prevention and Substance Abuse. Currently, Jorge coordinates the HIV and Substance Abuse Prevention Program at the University of Texas at Brownsville and the University of Texas Pan American. He is also an adjunct instructor at the Texas Southmost College.

Jorge Muñoz, LMSW

Dr. Steve Bain is a Licensed Professional Counselor and LPC Intern Supervisor who has worked with self-injurers for over a decade. Dr. Bain serves as an Associate Professor of Counseling and the department chair for the Department of Educational Leadership and Counseling at Texas A&M University -Kingsville. He has worked with a number of clients and school districts providing counseling and training for school and mental health professionals. He is considered by many to be an authority on self-injury and provides the latest research and fact-based intervention strategies for the contemporary counselor/professional .

Steve Bain, Ph.D., LPC-S

10

Breakout DD.1. Dating and Relationship Violence In Adolescents, Implications For Treatment

This session provides participants with strategies on how to detect warning signs of dating and relationship violence in adolescents. It will identify difference between healthy and harmful relationships, and it will identify the effects of the abuse on the adolescent’s mental health. Participants will leave this session with practical strategies/interventions on how to treat the effects of the violence when working with teens/adolescents who are or have been in a violent relationship.

Marisa G. Ugalde, LMSW, CCTP

D.2. Effects of Substance Use on Cognitive Functioning in Adolescents

The presentation will focus on the nexus between substance use and cognitive function among adolescents. Under-standing effects of substance use and alcohol is imperative as their use is on rise among adolescents and young adults. There is substantive evidence from recent research on the changes in brain structure and neurocognitive functions due to substance use. These changes cause cognitive deficits which would have adverse effects on their academic and occupational performance and social functioning and they extend into adulthood as well (Casey, Jones & Hare, 2008).


Ayaciuan Madrigal-Burt, M.A. LPIAya Burt received her bachelor 's degree in psychology from the prestigious Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico. After graduating with honors, she worked as a psychologist in Mexico City, counseling a variety of populations with mental issues, from children to adults. Upon arriving in the states, Mrs. Burt attended and graduated from the CACREP-accredited masters program in clinical mental health counseling at the University of Texas at Brownsville (UTB) to further her education. As a counselor in the states, Mrs. Burt has worked with diverse populations such as immigrants (women and youth), LGBTQ populaces , couples, and has provided group and family therapy. Further, Mrs. Burt has coordinated the Campus Suicide Prevention Program at UTB where she organized for professors, students, and law enforcement. Mrs. Burt has presented at local, state, national , and international conferences discussing topics such as suicide prevention and awareness, border violence and the impact on school children, community outreach with Spanish-speaking parents, and social media.

Mrs. Marisa Ugalde is a Licensed Master Social Worker. She is currently working on her Doctorate in Professional Counseling. She is a Counseling Specialist with the Counseling and Psychological Services department at the University of Texas Pan American. Mrs. Ugalde is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional certified by the International Association of Trauma Professionals. She has worked with a number of clients who have suffered different traumatic events. Mrs. Ugalde strongly believes that trauma treatment mobilizes, empowers, and restores functioning to individuals. She has provided presentations on trauma and trauma related topics to a number of local community professionals and in-state agencies to identify and intervene in regards to traumatic stress reactions .

Marisa Ugalde, LMSW, CCTP

Eugenia Curet, Ph.D., LCSW, ACSWDr. Eugenia Curet holds a Master Degree in Social Work with specialization in psychiatric social work from the New York University Graduate School of Social Work, and a Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Studies focusing in Public Health & Substance Abuse from The Union Institute & University, Cincinnati, Ohio. Dr. Curet was employed by the University of Texas at Brownsville (UTB) where she was Assistant Dean for Counseling and Medical Services and Clinical Associate Professor. At present she is the Assistant Dean of Student for Support Services at the University of Texas Pan American in charge of the medical, counseling and psychological services. Prior to her affiliation with University of Texas system, she was the Director of the Vincent P. Dole Research and Treatment Center for Opioid Addiction of the Weill Cornell Medical College (WCMC). Dr. Curet has been a trainer and presenter at numerous national and international conferences on topics ranging from mental health, suicide prevention , HIV, substance abuse and co-morbidity of Hepatitis C and substance abuse as well as provision of integrated and culturally sensitive delivery of treatment services.

Mr.Frank Zenere is a school psychologist and Department Head of the Crisis Management program for Miami-Dade County Public schools, the nation's fourth largest district, Serving over 350,000 students. He eceived his undergraduate and graduate degrees from Florida International Universi-ty. Frank has served on numerous state and national committees overseeing the development of school safety policies and procedures, including suicide prevention, and best practice guidelines for the prevention of, preparedness for, response to, and recovery form critical incidents and disasters impacting school communities. He has conducted crisis management workshops or responded to crises in over 40 states and ten foreign countries. Frank has provided crisis response services in the aftermath of earthquakes in Turkey, El Salvador and Haiti, the tsunami in Sri Lanka, numerous hurricanes and tornadoes , the September 11, 2001 terrorist attack in New York City, school shootings, and youth suicide clusters. Frank was also a guest panelist in Connecticut following the shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School, where he provided recovery strategies for local caregivers.

Frank John Zenere III

Moving Beyond the ADHD Label: A Call for Paradigmatic Change in Therapeutic Perspectives

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) continues to be redefined and reclassified as is evident with the latest version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-V). This presentation will review the changing therapeutic and diagnostic landscape and the implications for counselors, social workers, school counselors, and education professionals. Particular attention will be given to rural populations in South Texas who continue to experience a lack of mental health resources. Participants will be challenged to review their current practices and incorporate a network approach as it particularly relates to school age children within those rural districts.

Steve Bain , Ph.D., LPC-S

11

Dorinda Noble, Ph.D, LCSW, is Director and Professor of the School of Social Work at Texas State University. Dr. Noble is also a long-time social work regulator on the social work boards of both Louisiana and Texas. Currently she is President of the Association of Social Work Boards, an international organization. A former child welfare worker and supervisor, Dr. Noble taught at Luisiana State University for a decade. Her areas of specialization are ethics, supervision, and regulation.

Dorinda Noble, Ph.D.

Ms.Velma H. Schmidt has been a Licensed Professional Counselor for 18 years and a Registered Play Therapist for 12 years, working with children and adults in various settings. Velma currently works as therapist/owner at RGV Play Therapy Center in Edinburg. She was previously the Lead Therapist at the Children's Advocacy Center of Hidalgo County -Estrella 's House, focusing on trauma and abuse issues. It was at the CAC where she got trained and certified as a TF-CBT Therapist. She served as President of the Rio Grande Valley Chapter of the Texas Association for Play Therapy for four years, and served on the Texas APT board for two years. Velma has 14 years of experience supervising LPC-Interns and has presented several workshops in the community. Velma resides in Edinburg where she is raising two children , with husband Bob.

Velma Schmidt, LPC, RPT-S

Dr. Feldman is an associate professor at the Department of Social Work at UTPA. Her maininterests include mental health and teen pregnancy . She is the President of the RGV TeenPregnancy Prevention Coalition whose purpose is to help lower the teen pregnancy rate in the Rio Grande Valley. She is involved with working with undocumented persons recently arrived from Central America. She has extensive experience working in private practice and has presented on mental health issues of the Valley at conferences in Turkey, China, and Germany . She has practice licenses in Texas and Florida. Dr. Feldman was recently awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award for 2015 by the National Association of Social Workers/RGV branch.


Miguel Lopez, LMSW, LCDCMr. Miguel Lopez obtained his Bachelors in Social Work from Pan American University in 1976, and his masters in Social work from the University of Texas Austin, in 1979. Mr. Lopez is also trained as a Trauma Resolution and Anger Management Therapist. Beginning his career working in the migrant stream in the states of Michigan and Wisconsin he gained a wealth of experience working with different ethnic and cultural backgrounds ranging from Native Americans to Hispanics, African Americans and Appalachians. His experience was further enhanced by working with gangs and inhalant abusers in the barrios of East Austin, the colonias of South Texas, school and university settings. Mr. Lopez was a Regional Administra-tor with the Texas Commission on Alcohol and Drug Abuse covering Health and Human Service Region 11, assisting providers with technical and clinical advice and direction. Presently, Mr. Lopez is working as a clinical therapist for the Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) at the University of Texas Pan American under the Dean of Students Office.

Dr. Sudershan Pasupuleti currently serves as professor and chair of Social Work Department at the University of Texas Pan American (soon to be The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley).Recently, Dr. Pasupuleti served as undergraduate program director and professor at the University of Toledo. He has nearly two and half decades of experience in teaching, research, practice, and consulting in working with large systems (communities and organizations), which includes nearly 10 years of administrative experience in leading UT Office of Service Learning and Community Engage-ment and the Development Action & Research Center in India. Dr. Pasupuleti is a recipient of "Hartford Faculty Scholar Award" from the Geronto-logical Society of America, an initiative funded by the John A. Hartford Foundation.


Mrs. Shawntell Triplett

Mr. Armando Galvan-Cruces

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Dr. Razo is a Rio Grande Valley native. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of Notre Dame and her doctorate in School Psychology from Texas A&M University. She has been licensed as a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology (LSSP) since 2005. Dr. Razo has worked in private practice, school districts, and the juvenile justice system, which has allowed her to have first-hand knowledge of how mental health issues affect children and adolescents. She has vast experience presenting workshops on issues affecting children in schools, including mental health, discipline, behavior management, bullying, social/emotional wellness, and disabilities. Dr. Razo is currently a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Texas - Pan American, Department of Educational Psychology where she teaches in the School Psychology Program. She is also the School Psychology Program Coordinator and Internship Director.

Nancy Peña Razo, Ph.D., LSSP

Ms. Arlene Laboy is a US Army, Retired Veteran. She works for Student Health Services Department at The University of Texas at Brownsville as the Program Coordinator for the Suicide Prevention and Violence Prevention Programs. Ms. Laboy, is the President of a female veteran organization, Veteran Females United, which developed from a female veteran support group which she has facilitated since 2013. She is currently working to have the first female veteran memorial installed in the Brownsville Veterans Park. She takes pride in her military roots and has a strong desire to continue helping Veterans reach their full potential in their life after the military.

Ms. Arlene Laboy

Ms. Venus GinésMs. Venus Ginés, a 22 year breast cancer survivor, is an Instructor at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston and has taught cultural competence and health literacy for over 7 years. In 1997, Venus founded Día de la Mujer Latina, Inc., (DML) a national non-profit organization, currently in 40 states and in Latin America, celebrating its signature health fiesta. Venus created a Community Navigator curriculum and trained over 800 Promotores (Community Health Workers). Today, Venus is also a State Certified Instructor for Promotores/Community Health Workers and DML was the 1st Latino CBO to be recognized as a Texas State Certified Training Program. She was the Chair of HHS National Promotores Initiative and Past Chair of Region 6 Health Equity Council.

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Ted Hesson is the immigration editor at Fusion, a joint venture of ABC News and Univision, where he covers immigration and drug policy from Washington, D.C. He has written extensively about immigration reform and closely follows the debate in Congress. In the past few years, he's reported on the child migrant crisis, the logjam in federal immigration courts and cases of undocumented immigrants being deported for low-level crimes. Before joining Fusion in September 2012, he spent 10 years living and working in New York City and the surrounding suburbs. He previously worked for the non-profit organization Long Island Wins and The Journal News, a Gannett newspaper based in White Plains, New York. Ted earned a master's degree at the Columbia University School of Journalism and a bachelor's degree at Boston College.

Ted Hesson

Dr. Ebony Butler, a proud native Mississippian who is passionate about the issues affecting Veterans and their families. I have tailored my studies, training, and employment opportunities to complement this growing passion. Currently, I am the Local Recovery Coordinator with the Texas Valley Coastal Bend Healthcare where my mission is to promote the model of recovery throughout our healthcare system. I am also an avid researcher and I am involved in projects that illustrate my interests in trauma sequelae and the recovery process among Veterans, especially women veterans. I envision a career where I am able merge my knowledge of trauma and recovery with my knowledge of health issues, particularly STIs, that plaque populations of ethnic minority women.

Ebony Butler, Ph.D.

Chief Paul R. Williams, LCC, MPAChief Williams is the current Coordinator/Director of the Regional Police Academy and Training Center for the Lower Rio Grande Valley Develop-ment Council. Prior to his current position, he served as a middle school teacher at the Austin Independent School District, the Chief of College Police and an adjunct government instructor at Austin Community College, a sergeant at the Travis County's Sheriff's Office, and a military police officer in the United States Marine Corp.

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AccommodationsLa Quinta Inn & Suites South Padre Beach 7000 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island, TX 78597 1-855-238-1593Amenities: On the beach, outdoor pool, water park, 24-hour front desk, complimentary breakfast, complimentary Wi-Fi, and fitness facilities.

Hilton Garden Inn South Padre Island7010 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island, TX 785971-855-239-9477Amenities: Near the beach, outdoor pool, fitness facilities, business center, restaurant and bar/lounge.

Airports McAllen/Miller International Airport- MFE2500 S Bicentenial Blvd, McAllen, TX 78503(956) 681-1500

Valley International Airport- HRL3002 Heritage Way, Harlingen, TX 78550(956) 430-8600

Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport- 700 Amelia Earhart Dr., Brownsville, TX 78521(956) 542-4373

Calendar EventsHistory of Quinta Mazatlan Tour-Friday April 10th at 10:00 A.M-11:00 A.M

RGV Home & Garden ShowApril 10th-12th Tai Chi in the Park- April 11th at the McAllen Nature Center, 9:00 A.M to 10:00 A.M. Ages 8 and up.

For information about South Padre Island, please visit the link – http://www.sopadre.com/ 34-miles of uninterrupted beaches, fireworks show every Friday and Saturday night, Dolphin Watch, Sea Turtle Inc., Kiteboarding, Bay & Deep Sea Fishing, and more.

McAllen HotelsDrury Suites McAllenDrury Suites McAllen 228 W Expressway 83, McAllen, TX 785011-866-573-4235Amenities: Outdoor pool, fitness facilities, business center, dry cleaning/laundry service, complimentary Wi-Fi, kitchen area, and daily housekeeping. Both locations are near the McAllen airport.

Embassy Suites McAllen1800 S 2nd St., McAllen, TX 785031-866-573-4235Amenities: Indoor pool, complimentary Wi-Fi, restaurant, bar/lounge, complimentary breakfast, fitness facilities. This hotel is also near the airport in McAllen.

Casa De Palmas Renaissance McAllen Hotel101 N Main Street, McAllen, TX 785011-866-678-6350Amenities: Outdoor pool, fitness facilities, complimentary Wi-Fi, restaurant, bar/lounge, meeting rooms, business center, roundtrip airport shuttle (available upon request). This hotel is also near the airport in McAllen.

Courtyard by Marriott McAllen Airport2131 S 10th Street, McAllen, TX 785031-866-767-0278Amenities: Outdoor pool, fitness facilities, complimentary Wi-Fi, restaurant, bar/lounge,business center, dry cleaning/laundry service, and daily housekeeping.

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott McAllen Airport2117 South 10th Street, McAllen, TX 785031-866-925-0548Amenities: Complimentary continental breakfast, snack bar/deli, indoor pool, 24-hour fitness facilities, 24-hour business center, drycleaning/laundry service, complimentary Wi-Fi, and daily housekeeping.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites 3801 South Highway 281, Edinburg, TX 78539 1-866-538-6218Amenities: Complimentary buffet breakfast, business center, meeting rooms, dry cleaning/laundry service, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Comfort Suites McAllen800 E Expressway 83, McAllen, TX 785031-855-239-9228Amenities: Complimentary buffet breakfast, outdoor pool, fitness facilities, 24-hour business center, meeting rooms, concierge service, and dry cleaning/laundry service.

Drury Suites 612 W Expressway 83, McAllen, TX 785011-866-538-9298 Amenities: Outdoor pool, fitness facilities, business center, dry cleaning/laundry service, complimentary Wi-Fi, kitchen area, and daily housekeeping. Both locations are near the McAllen airport.

Wingate by Wyndham McAllen1500 Wichita Ave, McAllen, TX 785031-866-539-5067Amenities: Free airport shuttle, complimentary breakfast, outdoor pool, steam room, business center, meeting room, 24-hour front desk, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Staybridge Suites McAllen620 Wichita Ave., McAllen, TX 785031-800-490-6126Amenities: Free airport shuttle (available upon request), near the La Plaza Mall, complimentary breakfast, outdoor seasonal pool, 24-hour fitness facilities, business center, and dry cleaning/laundry service.

South Padre HotelsSchlitterbahn Beach Resort and Waterpark 100 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island, TX 785971-800-491-6126Amenities: On the beach, 3 restaurants, indoor and outdoor pool, water park, beach umbrellas, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

La Copa Inn Beach Hotel350 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island, TX 785971-800-491-6126Amenities: On the beach, outdoor pool, water park, 24-hour front desk, complimentary breakfast, complimentary Wi-Fi, and fitness facilities.

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mental health conference

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