my beloved fmhca family, i want to express my deepest ... 2017... · jim messina, phd, ccmhc, ncc,...
TRANSCRIPT
JUNE
Volume 17, Issue 6
We hear about posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) quite a bit in the news and
on social media these days, and, thankfully, more and more of the civilian popula-
tion is slowly beginning to understand it for the first time. It’s important that they
do so because such a large percentage of the veteran population suffers from it
on some level – almost 31 percent of Vietnam veterans, 10 percent of Gulf War
(Desert Storm) veterans, and 11 percent of veterans of the war in Afghanistan.
With these numbers, it’s likely that most people know someone who struggles
with PTSD, most in silence.
In order to bring greater awareness to the issue of PTSD, the United States
Senate designated June as PTSD Awareness Month by the National Center for
PTSD (NCPTSD), also naming June 27th as National PTSD Awareness Day.
Through this designation, it is hoped that more people will be aware of the
disorder and how it may affect the veterans they know, as well as encourage veterans to reach out for help if they
need it.
The Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) created a resource-filled website called About Face to assist veterans and
loved ones struggling with the results of PTSD. The site includes a series of videos interviewing PTSD-
sufferers who finally sought help and saw great improvement in their lives. These relatable profiles are aimed at
removing the stigma and anxiety of telling one’s doctor about the symptoms and asking for assistance. Sadly, many
veterans consider or succumb to suicide after struggling for so long with the disorder. Showing that a veteran is
not alone in what he or she has experienced, both during war and back at home, can be the lifeline they need.
PTSD is a mental health problem that can occur after someone has been exposed to a single traumatic event or
multiple traumatic events, including war-related combat stress. Symptoms of PTSD include ongoing (longer than a
month without improvement):
Persistent intrusive thoughts and distressing dreams about the traumatic event
Triggered emotional responses to reminders of the trauma
Efforts to avoid thinking or talking about the trauma
Persistent hypervigilance for cues that indicate additional danger or trauma re-occurring
Numbness or detachment from others, activities, or surroundings
The VA site also details the types of therapies that seem to help combat PTSD, including cognitive processing
therapy (a process that helps a veteran get “unstuck” from obsessive thoughts about the trauma) and prolonged
exposure therapy (confronting the memories head-on and learning effective coping mechanisms to work through
them). Some veterans have also found relief through equine therapy and learning hobbies like veteran-focused
fishing groups, both of which help the veteran escape to a quiet place and focus on a new activity that engages
mind and body.
Page 2 JUNE Volume 17, Issue 6
President
Leonel Mesa, PsyD, LMHC
President-Elect
Louise Sutherland-Hoyt,
LMHC
Treasurer
Jim Messina, PhD, CCMHC,
NCC, DCMHS
Past President
Michael Holler
Secretary
Kathie Erwin, Ed.D, LMHC,
NCC, NCGC
Parliamentarian
Frank Hannah, MS, LMHC
Member-at-Large
Joe Skelly, MS, LMHC
Member-at-Large
Erica Whitfield
Member-at-Large
Hassiem Kambui, PhD,
LMHC
Member-at-Large
Judith Roberts, Ph.D., LMHC
Executive Director
Darlene Silvernail, PhD,
Board of Directors
2016 - 2017
“Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.”
Ralph Waldo Emerson
My beloved FMHCA family, I want to express my deepest gratitude and appreciation to all
for the great privilege and honor you bestowed upon me as President of our organization
during this past year. It has truly been an extraordinary year! With specific strategic changes,
our proactive effort of nurturing enthusiasm, promoting active member participation along
with the pursuit of innovative initiatives has strengthened and positioned ourselves as the
leading voice of Licensed Mental Health Counselors within our state and a premier
organization throughout our nation. The following are several of our most notable
accomplishments throughout this past year:
We have restructured our organization into Regional Districts that fosters greater
opportunities of access, mobility and engagement while promoting FMHCA as our leading
state representative.
Through our Government Relations Committee in collaboration with our lobbyist, Corinne
Mixon, we have proactively followed and addressed numerous state and national legislative
issues. We hosted our “Inaugural Legislative Day Event” in Tallahassee where FMHCA
members had an opportunity to engage legislators and share our support of bills directed
towards promoting the prevention and treatment of mental illness. We have actively pursued
conversations with our state legislators regarding Medicare Inclusion of Licensed Mental
Health Counselors.
Additionally, we have engaged with our state licensing board to reaffirm the preservation of
our licensing title. We continue are steadfast commitment and collaboration with universities
in developing on-site FMHCA Student Associations. And, as our membership has expanded
throughout this year, we continue to make the growth of our organization one of our top
priorities.
All of these accomplishments could not have been achieved if not for the effort of our
distinguished leadership of our FMHCA Board, Executive officer and our efficient and
effective office support team and the support of our FMHCA family. I thank you all for
your tremendous efforts and continued dedication to our FMHCA family.
As my term as your President is closing, I have the great honor of passing the mantle to our
incoming President, Louise Sutherland-Hoyt. I have the upmost confidence that she will
continue to build on our accomplishments and the leadership legacy of our great
organization.
In appreciation for the opportunity to serve,
Leonel “Dr. Leo” Mesa, Jr., Psy.D, LMHC, CAP, CEAP
FMHCA President
Page 3 JUNE Volume 17, Issue 6
Thank you to our loyal and wonderful members! If you are
not yet a member, I encourage you to join our organization
and let your voice be heard! Our organization offers so
many great resources for our members, including education
(such as FREE WEBINARS), legislative oversight, net-
working, and FMHCA member discounts with partner organizations. There is so
much we are doing, and so much more we can do! We will to continue advocate for
mental health counselors in Florida by supporting legislation that promotes our pro-
fession. We need YOU to make that happen. If you are already a member of
FMHCA, we thank you. If you are not, please consider joining. Your support makes it
possible for FMHCA to continue to grow and promote our profession, to maintain a
strong voice and to promote change. Have you ever wondered who promotes the leg-
islation that recognizes and advances mental health counseling in Florida? YOU do,
by supporting FMCHA! FMHCA wants to empower you to help make your profes-
sional dreams come true. You can read about what FMHCA is doing for mental
health counselors in our bylaws. Do you want to take a more active role in FMHCA?
Consider volunteering to serve on one of our committees!
https://fmhca.wildapricot.org/Committees
We are already looking forward to our 2018 Annual Conference. It will be held in
Lake Mary, Florida at the Orlando Marriott - Lake Mary (the same hotel this year's
conference was held at). Please visit our new website,
https://fmhca.wildapricot.org/ to register for the 2018 Annual Conference.
Sincerely,
Darlene Silvernail PhD, LMHC, CAP
Executive Director
Watch out for other local events coming to you soon!!
ED Corner
Become a FMHCA Member :
Thank You to our Amazing Sponsors!
Page 4 JUNE Volume 17, Issue 6
FMHCA invites all mental health professionals to become a part of our organization so
your voice can be heard and you can enjoy a strong network of professionals in our state.
Join by Clicking Here! by downloading a membership form and mailing it with your
payment, or you may make a payment directly through our website. Keep in mind we
have a few membership options:
$65.00 Clinical - All LMHC's or CCMHC's
$55.00 Regular - All registered interns or non-licensed professionals
$25.00 Retired Clinicians - License Retired
$Free Student (Free for the first year and there after $20.00) - Full time graduate, post-
graduate, or undergraduate student
Membership Renewal
If your FMHCA membership has expired, we encourage you to and hope you will you to
renew today by visiting our FLMHCA.ORG
Advertise On Our Website & In Our Newsletter!
Increase your professional exposure by becoming a FMHCA sponsor!
FMHCA's website gets hundreds of hits a day from members, nonmembers, and prospec-
tive members. Becoming a sponsor with FMHCA lets other professionals know that
you're out there - it's a terrific way to network and grow as a professional.
There are two ways to becoming a sponsor - you can purchase a flashing banner across
the top of our pages or one of the sponsor blocks at the bottom of our website pages.
Best of all, you get a full year of sponsorship for one low price!
Artwork must be submitted in one of the following formats: png, jpg, tif, tiff, or psd.
After you have completed payment, submit your artwork to us at
FRANK HANNAH STUDENT SCHOLARSHIP
Any graduate student enrolled in an accredited counseling program is eligible to apply for this scholarship.
*Please submit your application by the end of the day on October 15
Click Here or Visit FMHCA.org for additional Information
FMHCA Annual Conference
February 1st-3rd, 2018 in Lake Mary, Orlando
PRESENTER PROPOSALS DUE BY
JULY 14 2017!
FMHCA’s goal is to provide education, legislative
oversight, and networking opportunities, our Annual
Conference provides an opportunity for advanced
professional training.
Take advantage of this opportunity and present at the
FMHCA 2018 Annual Conference!
Possible Dynamic Approaches May Cover:
Integrative System Care
Expressive and Creative Therapies
Multicultural Counseling
Innovative Treatments and Skill Building
Practice
EMDR and Trauma Work
Addiction Models
Military and Veteran Mental Health
Ethics
Mediation
DBT
F.A.S
Evidence Based Interventions
Best Practice for Individuals with Autism
Spectrum Disorder
Adolescent and Family
Evidence Base Documentation Skills
And Many More!
Benefits of Presenting:
Presenters will receive a $50 discount on confer-
ence registration.
Promotion of your name and credentials on our
website and in all electronic and print marketing
materials, where appropriate.
Recognition of your expertise by FMHCA and by
other industry professionals
Networking opportunities.
Presenter Eligibility:
To be considered, presenters must have professional
qualifications in good standing with their professional
regulatory board, if applicable, possess the technical
expertise necessary to present on a subject effectively,
and meet one or more of the following:
Have received specialized graduate or post-
graduate level training in subject of presentation;
and/or
Have extensive experience including at least five
years of practical application or research involv-
ing subject of presentation
Submit a Proposal to be a Presenter:
Submit on-line at www.FLMHCA.org
Please Submit Questions at [email protected] or
Call 561-228-6129
Page 6 JUNE Volume 17, Issue 6
Page 7 JUNE Volume 17, Issue 6
NBFE is pleased to announce our 2017-2018 testing workshop, a 40-hour workshop that
trains licensed mental health professionals to administer and interpret psychological tests
used in forensic evaluations. Graduates are awarded a letter from Psychological Assessment
Resources (PAR) certifying Level C qualification for testing.
Testing for Forensic Populations: A Comprehensive Overview and Certification Program
When: 18 Aug 2017 10:00 AM, EDT
Where: Online (Gotowebinar)
EVENT DETAILS:
Testing and assessment instruments have become the rule rather than the exception these days. Research and best practices have shown that objective testing is more accurate, accessible, and accepted in the courtroom as well as other forensic settings. Unfortunately, many practitioners are woefully under educated and trained on these valuable tools. For this reason, we have decided to develop and offer a comprehensive certification program to aid CFMHE’s become more adept, confident, and practiced at utilizing these instruments. The goal is ensure these tools are used appropriately, consistently, and in a manner that affords the practitioner as well as the decider the best possible information in any forensic mental health setting.
Fundamental to this course are explanations of theoretical concepts underlying testing and assessment.
Content will include use of the scientific method as a basis for engaging in critical thinking and the evaluation of sources of information, a review of empirical studies in psychology to evaluate research findings and evaluate claims of reliability and validity, articulate controversial and ethical issues in psychological testing, use computer technology and appropriate software to complete assignments, and work effectively in small groups. In addition to discussion of theoretical concepts, Attendees will learn the history of
psychological testing, learn how theories, principles and concepts are used in psychometric assessment and are applied in educational, clinical and employment settings, compute and interpret basic psychometric statistics, and create, pilot, analyze, and provide both a written report (in APA-style) and an oral presentation of the test development project.
The Florida
Practices of
Substance Abuse
Service
Providers Act
House Bill 807
(HB-807)
Page 8 JUNE Volume 17, Issue 6
The Florida legislature recently
passed major legislation (2017
HB-807) with sweeping effects on
the substance abuse industry. The
new bill is expected to be signed
into law by Governor Rick Scott
and go into effect on July 1, 2017.
The law focuses on cracking down
on perceived abuses in marketing
and patient-brokering among
treatment facilities to establish
stricter marketing rules, stiffer
penalties for patient-brokering and
more state funding for
prosecutions. The law also
expands the licensing rules of the
Department of Children and
Families (DCF) and places more
of the costs directly on facilities
themselves, changes the require-
ments of recovery residences and
much more.
Page 9 JUNE Volume 17, Issue 6
1. Expanding and empowering DCF.
HB-807 creates a more powerful and better-funded Department of Children and Families in the following ways:
Increases license application fees. Fees used to be designed to cover half the cost of regulating treatment providers, but they
will now have to fund the full costs. Details of the exact amount of the new fees will be released in forthcoming regulations.
Licensure process becomes much stricter. DCF will no longer issue more than one probationary license and will not allow
any more extensions. DCF is also empowered to suspend a license in certain situations that pose danger to the safety of pa-
tients or the public. Operating without a license will now be subject to felony punishment.
2. Increasing oversight of clinical care and practitioners.
The new law requires DCF to develop new rules regarding clinical best practices. By January 1, 2018, DCF will publish rules
laying out a number of new regulations regarding clinical best practices, including:
Procedures for record keeping, referrals, and financial management.
Number of and qualifications for all personnel involved in treatment, including education, credentials, license, training, su-
pervision and clinical hours.
Maximum number of group therapy participants and staff-to-client ratios.
Maximum number of facilities and patients per medical director.
Safety and facility standards including space, sanitation and meals.
3. Increased regulation of marketing practices.
HB-807 develops new rules and oversight for marketing while increasing the penalties for deceptive marketing practices in
the following ways:
Prohibits deceptive marketing practices by a service provider, an operator of a recovery residence, or a third party who pro-
vides any form of advertising or marketing services. Violation is now a felony punishable by prison.
Requires licensure of entities providing substance abuse marketing services and regulates them under the State's Division of
Consumer Services as telemarketers are currently regulated.
4. Tightening recovery residence referral rules.
Recovery residences and service providers will be much more limited in the referrals they are permitted to make back and
forth.
Service providers are prohibited from accepting referred patients (including prospective and discharged patients) from a re-
covery residence unless that residence and its administrator both have a certificate of compliance. The law already prohibits
them from making referrals to uncertified recovery residences.
Effective January 1, 2018, the law will remove the exception that allows service providers to refer patients to mutually owned
and operated uncertified recovery residences, unless the recovery residence does not benefit from the referral or the provider
is under contract with a behavioral health managing entity.
5. Crackdown on patient brokering.
The House Bill severely comes down on patient brokering, by both expanding its definition and increasing the penalties for
violations:
Provides funding through the Office of Statewide Prosecution to prosecute patient brokering crimes and makes it up to a
first-degree felony to engage in patient brokering, depending on the number of patients affected punishable by lengthy pris-
on sentences.
Adds the word "benefit" to the list of prohibited inducements for patient referral, widely expanding the scope of what is
prohibited to induce patient referrals.
Page 10 JUNE Volume 17, Issue 6
Dr. Bob Decker is the very first name that came to mind when I received a
request to select a member of our local FMHCA chapter, MHCCF, for com-
mendation. I have known Dr. Decker for fourteen years. I have observed his
tireless dedication to his clients, colleagues, and the Mental Health Counsel-
ing profession.
Dr. Decker has actively volunteered on behalf of our profession for over 20
years. He started off with the Mental Health Association of Central Florida. I
remember seeing him as the “face” of the Mental Health Association for
many years before I had the opportunity to get to know him. One example
was when I worked for the University of Central Florida, Dr. Decker ar-
ranged to have Kurt Cobain’s Aunt Mari Earl speak to the student body about
suicide during National Depression Awareness Month. He did a great job of
coordinating a renowned speaker that students could relate to with the pur-
pose of educating about depression and pointing towards help.
He began volunteering with MHCCF in 2002. He served two terms as Presi-
dent. He has worn multiple hats over the years, including Education Chair;
and most recently, he took on the role of our chapter's Legislative Chair for
our revived Legislative Committee. He has put together continuing education
courses such as “Medical Errors,” “Ethics,” and most recently, the new
“Laws and Rules Update” which he graciously provides to our community so
our colleagues can obtain these required courses at a discount. It would be
difficult to add up all of the time he’s spent donating to his colleagues.
In summary, Dr. Decker cares deeply for those affected by mental illness; he
cares for his colleagues; and he cares for our profession. I am honored to
serve alongside him, and it is a privilege to acknowledge Dr. Decker for his
steadfast and unwavering work for the Mental Health Counseling profession.
“Kudo” Article Bob Decker, Ph.D., LMHC
By
Laura Peddie-Bravo, LMHC, NCC, President of MHCCF
Page 11 JUNE Volume 17, Issue 6
Page 12 JUNE Volume 17, Issue 6
TALLAHASSEE — Gov. Rick Scott ordered the state Surgeon General and Health Secretary Celeste Philip to
declare the ongoing opioid epidemic a public health emergency, so that he can tap into more than $27 million in
federal funding for the prevention, treatment and recovery support services, his office announced Wednesday.
Scott also directed Philip to issue a standing order for Naloxone to ensure that responders have immediate access
to this lifesaving drug to respond to opioid overdoses.
Meanwhile, the Legislature has been at odds over funding for Vivitrol, also known as naltrexone, a drug used to
treat opioid addiction. While the latest Senate budget offer includes $2.5 million for naltrexone, the House cuts
funding for Naltrexone treatment by $5.5 million.
There were more than 3,900 opioid deaths in Florida in 2015.
According to Scott’s executive order, Florida will be able to access $27.1 million in federal dollars for two years,
but that the state must tap into the money before July 1.
His press office claims that, without the order, “it would have taken months for
the state to distribute these funds to local communities. “
Scott directed the state department of Children and Families, state department of
Health and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement to visit Palm Beach,
Manatee, Duval and Orange Counties to identify additional strategies to fight the
rising opioid usage cases in the state.
The opioid crisis has drawn national attention. Florida Attorney General Pam
Bondi is part of a national commission created last month by President Donald
Trump and led by New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie to combat the country's opi-
oid problem.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, opioids — prescription and illicit — are the main driver of drug
overdose deaths. Opioids were involved in 33,091 deaths in 2015, and opioid overdoses have quadrupled since
1999.
To view online:
http://www.politico.com/states/florida/whiteboard/2017/05/03/scott-declares-state-of-emergency-to-combat-
opioid-epidemic-8611972
By Christine Sexton
Gov. Scott declares state of emergency to combat opioid epidemic!
Page 13 JUNE Volume 17, Issue 6
Page 14 JUNE Volume 17, Issue 6
Dear FMHCA Members,
Jackson’s ALL WELLness Services, LLC hosts a meeting every other month with professionals
in the area. These professional meetings are coordinated and facilitated by Dr. Daniella Jackson,
and they are composed by other professionals, which may include Florida Mental Health Coun-
selor Interns, independent researchers, licensed mental health counselors, licensed social work-
ers, physicians, psychiatrists, psychologists, university professors, , and/or other healthcare pro-
fessionals.
The main objectives of these professional meetings include building peer support, professional
development, and the strengthening of a list for professional resources that may be useful to our
clients. When professionals have the opportunity to connect with each other on a regular basis,
they are able to gain a better understanding of other professionals’ philosophies, areas of exper-
tise, and the services they offer within our community.
Our next Professional Meeting will be held on Saturday 06/10/17 from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at
our location. Please bring business cards to share. You will also be given an opportunity to in-
form others about your expertise and niche.
For these professional meetings, snacks and light refreshments are provided. There is no cost to
attend any of our professional meetings.
If you are interested in being a part of our network,
please feel free to contact us at any time. Addition-
ally, we hope you LIKE our Facebook page, and
please check out our website for detailed infor-
mation about all our services and upcoming events.
Page 15 JUNE Volume 17, Issue 6
Page 16 JUNE Volume 17, Issue 6
When you’re in recovery for substance abuse, going to any social event can be extremely difficult. In fact, many experts beli
best for those who are new to recovery to stay away from social events altogether, at least for the first several months, bec
hard to be in that situation and refrain from using drugs or alcohol.
Possible relapse isn’t the only reason a person in recovery should be careful about attending social events, however; it can
difficult to be around particular family members or old friends, especially if they weren’t supportive or don’t understand al
that come with recovery.
If you have battled substance abuse but feel you’re ready to attend parties and other events, it’s important to come armed wi
and have assistance from a friend or sponsor who can help you get out should you want to leave early. Here are some of the be
ways to get through a social event.
Consider getting a service animal
Service animals are wonderful companions and can really help relieve anxiety and depression. Many studies have shown that sim
petting a dog can help a person who is battling mood disorders or a disability, and the bonus is that you can take the animal
anytime you feel you need extra help at an event or just in public.
If possible, bring a friend along to the party who can help you make a quick exit if need be. Try to make it someone who simp
doesn’t drink or partake in the festivities, because having a friend with you who is in recovery might impede their own progr
out a signal so that you can let the friend know you’re ready to leave without announcing it to the entire party.
Try to have fun
The point of these social occasions
visit with friends and family. It may help to keep an incentive in mind; for instance, tell yourself that if you stay at the
certain length of time, you can treat yourself to a massage or a simple milkshake later.
Practice self
Self
tion. Taking care of your mental, emotional, and physical health is a big job, but there are several ways you can go about it
daily, eating well
have a profound effect on your mood and general wellbeing.
It can also be helpful to use art therapy during recovery. Writing in a journal, making art, or finding another way to expres
creatively can really help you get out some of those negative emotions and work toward a more positive goal.
Remember that recovery is your own path, and there is nothing to be ashamed of. Staying in recovery is hard work, but if you
plan and some friends who can support you, getting through social events will get easier and easier.
Page 17 JUNE Volume 17, Issue 6
When you’re in recovery for substance abuse, going to any social event can be extremely difficult. In fact, many experts believe it’s
best for those who are new to recovery to stay away from social events altogether, at least for the first several months, because it’s so
hard to be in that situation and refrain from using drugs or alcohol.
Possible relapse isn’t the only reason a person in recovery should be careful about attending social events, however; it can also be
difficult to be around particular family members or old friends, especially if they weren’t supportive or don’t understand all the things
that come with recovery.
If you have battled substance abuse but feel you’re ready to attend parties and other events, it’s important to come armed with a plan
and have assistance from a friend or sponsor who can help you get out should you want to leave early. Here are some of the best
ways to get through a social event.
Consider getting a service animal
Service animals are wonderful companions and can really help relieve anxiety and depression. Many studies have shown that simply
petting a dog can help a person who is battling mood disorders or a disability, and the bonus is that you can take the animal with you
anytime you feel you need extra help at an event or just in public.
Come prepared
If you know there will be substances at the event, it’s a good idea to
come prepared with a “script” of sorts in order to avoid awkward or
difficult questions. Think about what you’ll say if someone offers you a
drink, but don’t feel the need to explain your situation, especially if you
don’t know the person well. Be firm but polite and refuse their offer.
It’s also a good idea to bring your own bottled water or soda to the
event. Not only will this prevent you from having to go near the bar or
beverage area, but having a drink in your hand will keep well-intentioned
party goers from asking if you need a drink.
Bring a friend
If possible, bring a friend along to the party who can help you make a quick exit if need be. Try to make it someone who simply
doesn’t drink or partake in the festivities, because having a friend with you who is in recovery might impede their own progress. Work
out a signal so that you can let the friend know you’re ready to leave without announcing it to the entire party.
Try to have fun
The point of these social occasions--birthday parties, barbecues, and wedding receptions--is to have fun, so try your best to relax and
visit with friends and family. It may help to keep an incentive in mind; for instance, tell yourself that if you stay at the party for a
certain length of time, you can treat yourself to a massage or a simple milkshake later.
Practice self-care
Self-care is extremely important for anyone who is in recovery, and it can help give you the right tools to deal with a difficult situa-
tion. Taking care of your mental, emotional, and physical health is a big job, but there are several ways you can go about it. Exercising
daily, eating well-balanced meals, attending counseling or therapy, or simply doing things that make you relaxed and happy can all
have a profound effect on your mood and general wellbeing.
It can also be helpful to use art therapy during recovery. Writing in a journal, making art, or finding another way to express yourself
creatively can really help you get out some of those negative emotions and work toward a more positive goal.
Remember that recovery is your own path, and there is nothing to be ashamed of. Staying in recovery is hard work, but if you have a
plan and some friends who can support you, getting through social events will get easier and easier.
How To Get Through Social Events When You’re In Recovery
Page 18 JUNE Volume 17, Issue 6
Green Cross of Traumatology, Partnering with FMHCA this February
We have found that relationships are the most important aspect of working with trauma-
tized populations. This is also true, however, when working with organizations. Recently, the
Green Cross Academy of Traumatology (GCAT) has had the pleasure of partnering with
the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association (FMHCA) in offering an annual
conference to its membership. FMHCA has agreed to develop a Green Cross track, starting
February of 2018 to provide membership of Green Cross with a location for an annual
conference, and networking with other mental health and outreach professionals. FMHCA
has a long history of offering workshops in compassion fatigue, field trauma, and
counseling interventions, in a wide variety of training situations, as well as disaster or mental
health related discussions. The partnering of Green Cross with FMHCA allows their
organization to offer trauma related programming every year at their annual conference.
Green Cross Members will also be invited along with members of FMHCA to attend any
programming in any conference track, and a track designed especially by Green Cross to
address the work of traumatology and disaster relief. We’ve included call for papers and
information to our members who would like to present research from their area of study, or
work related to compassion fatigue, field trauma, or counseling in areas of trauma.
We are thrilled to join you for this fabulous opportunity February 1st-3rd, 2018 in Lake
Mary, Florida.
Dr. Charles Figley, founder of Green Cross, has agreed to be a keynote speaker for the
entire conference, and will discuss the work of Green Cross and traumatology. We are
thrilled about this opportunity to meet with Dr. Figley, renew old friendships, and develop
new ones,within and throughout the organizations of Green Cross and FMHCA. We look
forward to this opportunity for Green Cross to be enriched as an organization, and for
membership to congregate and grow together, in partnering with the membership of
FMHCA.
Dr. Figley’s wife Kathy will also be a presenter, who is responsible alongside Dr. Figley for
the development of Green Cross Academy trainings. Our organization owes much to the
Figley’s, and we’re so very excited that they have agreed to participate; bringing our Green
Cross family together as we aid first responders and victims of trauma.
We are urging our members, “Don’t stay home because you “can’t afford” this wonderful
opportunity! Work with us, because we want you there too.” We’re looking forward to
meeting many of you in February in bright and sunny Orlando, Florida.
-Dr. Benjamin Keyes, Executive Director of Green Cross
Page 19 JUNE Volume 17, Issue 6
Louise Sutherland-Hoyt, LMHC, CCMHC, NCC, MAC
President-Elect FMHCA
Chairman, Government Relations Committee
There is a very ancient saying: You cannot step into the same river twice. For it is
not the same river, and you are not the same person. This is a truth that implies
both good news and other news as FMHCA moves toward the new year beginning
July 1. We have undergone enormous changes in our structure that has led to grow-
ing pains and yet at the same time has opened doors to exciting ventures as we for-
mulate our vision for the future of FMHCA.
The Government Relations Committee embarked upon a path that led us through a swirl of ac-
tivity and growth as we engaged the legislature, took a stand on key bills affecting mental health in
Florida, and initiated efforts to forge relationships with like-minded organizations to strengthen
our voice in support of better access to Mental Health services in this state. Looking ahead, our
newly developed regions have the potential to play a vital role in advocating for the profession, vis
a vis, lobbying those legislators within each region, and a visible presence in regional communities.
The GRC has set forth a comprehensive, yet achievable, list of objectives that will be implement-
ed as of July 1. Currently, the committee is in recess and taking a much-needed breather in order
to hit the ground running come July.
As I look toward stepping into the role of President, I envision taking strides in the direction of
unity among regions, and strengthening bonds between “the Mother Ship”, that is the state organ-
ization, and the elected leaders through quarterly get-togethers called Coffee Klatches. This
where we will exchange ideas and feedback that will contribute vastly to the direction of FMHCA,
a key element in building cohesiveness. We will seek and find creative solutions to expand our
membership and we will be a presence at public forums involving matters of our profession and
the status of Mental Health in Florida.
To all FMHCA members, wishing you a summer of wellness and wholesome adventures.
Page 20 JUNE Volume 17, Issue 6
Member Mental Health Professionals Apps:
Page 21 JUNE Volume 17, Issue 6
DSM-5 Criteria
This is the mobile app for clinicians to utilize in diag-
nosing their clients. It is an easy to use system which
lists the criteria for all of the DSM-5 diagnostic catago-
ries with the criteria listed for each diagnosis (this is not
a free app).Read more about this app
at: http://www.appi.org/Pages/DSM5Mobile.aspx
ICD-9-CM Codes
ICD 9 Consult puts the complete, current ICD9-CM on
your iPhone or iPod Touch, instantly smart-searchable
and browsable. Read more about it at:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/icd9-consult-2014-
free/id358845668?mt=8
ICD-10-CM Codes
ICD 10 Helps you to Quickly look up diagnosis codes
using the new ICD-10 coding system. All codes are
downloaded to your device - no downloading is neces-
sary as you are looking up your code. Read more about
it at:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/stat-icd-10-
coder/id467916561?mt=8
Provider Resilience
Provider Resilience gives health care providers tools to
guard against burnout and compassion fatigue as they
help their clients be they civilians or service members,
veterans, and their families. Providers can take a self as-
sessment to determine if they are at risk and steps they
can take to ward off such burnout and fatigue. Read
more about it
at: https://www.t2health.org/apps/provider-resilience
Courtesy from Coping.US. com and James Messina
Page 22 JUNE Volume 17, Issue 6
Page 23 JUNE Volume 17, Issue 6
Narcissists can be very charming and positive, but they’re just looking for people to feed into their narcissistic supply and help build
their ego, said Patricia Watson, M.D., interim head of the Department of Humanities in Medicine at the Texas A&M College of Med-
icine.
“Narcissists have the ability to cultivate relationships,” Watson said.
“People have narcissism as a trait, some more than others, but a smaller group of people have Narcissistic Personality Disorder, or
NPD.”
Like the story of Narcissus, narcissism is characterized by a general grandiose belief about oneself. Those with more of a tendency
toward narcissism will have an exaggerated sense of self-importance, a sense of entitlement, a lack of empathy, and often a tendency
to be manipulative.
“Narcissism exists on a spectrum,” Watson said. “You have people who have low to moderate amounts of narcissism, where it’s still
apparent, but not really a disorder; then you have the high end where it’s a full personality disorder.”
Narcissism can be seen as the evil twin of high self-esteem. Both are born of a person’s accomplishments and how they truly see
themselves.
“Everyone has self-esteem and self-worth,” Watson said. “It’s when those become exaggerated and there is an unhealthy drive to
keep their beliefs intact that it becomes a problem.”
The causes for NPD are not completely clear; while home life and upbringing can certainly play a role, there may be some genetic
factors that can determine where someone stands on the narcissism spectrum, she said. If developing narcissism is a learned trait,
then normal social activity at school or daycare can help break the mindset that may be normal early on.
“We are all born with a type of learned narcissism,” Watson said. “From birth, the world revolves around us. We cry, and food ap-
pears or we are held, but then we grow out of that mindset and start learning that it won’t always be the case.”
Studies have often shown that narcissists are more likely to step into positions of power. In the short-term, they can be perceived as
confident and very skillful, which makes them a favorable candidate for a new promotion at work or a leader in the classroom.
However, they may use some dirty tactics to achieve this goal. Their line between confidence and arrogance is a lot thinner than oth-
ers, and they may belittle someone if they perceive their own views are threatened. In contrast, a leader with very low levels of narcis-
sism can be poor leaders too, just like someone with high levels, but in a different way.
Click Here To Continue Reading
Explaining Narcissism as Personality Trait and Disorder
Page 24 JUNE Volume 17, Issue 6
Ahh!!! Graduation with your masters and ready to enter the therapy field by storm with your education, excitement, and vigor. But with
that comes the daunting task of getting hours needed for licensure, take the state test, and find a supervisor to guide you through both. For
those of you who are just beginning this process or can reflect on this time, I wanted to share my experience and give some tips for future
interns and supervisors.
My supervision experience for licensure was a struggle. I had heard of people paying for supervision but thought I may find a supervisor
that would do it for no cost but still get the guidance I wanted. Here I remember the old saying, “You get what you pay for”. My boss at
the time knew a qualified supervisor who was beginning to build an assessment team for a detox center and was willing to supervise me if I
was to offer assessments to incoming clients who were coming off detox. I made my own hours and could go after working a full day as a
counselor at a clinic. In the beginning the supervisor was engaged but as time went on he became less due to the challenges of opening his
business. I was calling him for weekly meetings but could only get together every few weeks and it became an hour of bantering about his
future hope for the facility he was starting and less about guiding me through clinical skills and therapeutic training. One benefit is that it led
me to desire something more which was part of the reason I moved to Florida, to seek out better supervision. As a beginning intern, I
remember wanting:
--Clinical guidance on difficult cases and clients
--Education of therapeutic skills and innovative skills to help clients with issues they were struggling through at that moment
--Support and training for the license exam that I was terrified of, knowing that this exam was the deal breaker for my future.
Unfortunately, I didn’t get any of these and grew frustrated with the process and concerned that I would not get the training needed to be a
successful therapist.
In my present practice as a supervisor, I now make a point to offer these in my supervision sessions with my interns. But now being a
supervisor for some time I have recognized even more that an intern needs to be successful at:
--Not only clinical guidance on difficult cases and clients but the ability to process cases at length to see the different perspectives on how
they are serving the client and their needs and offering insight into managing the issues with the client.
--Not only education of therapeutic skills and innovative skills to help clients with issues but use the plethora of professionals in the field
and their perspective. I offer each intern a year’s subscription to Psychotherapy Networker, to address current trends in the field. I use this
journal along with other journals that I belong to give professional guidance from the innovators in the field of therapy.
--Not only support for the license exam but confidence and guidance through case presentation that mirrors the exam questions and clinical
guidance with the exam in mind to give a sense of clarity for the exam.
Now being on the FMHCA Intern committee board I get to have direct influence on the supervisor and supervisee relationship. The hope
is that the future supervisors of our field will have the best training, guidance, and preparation, in turn, creating our future interns.
For you the intern it’s a financial investment that you’re giving to yourself and your future clients to pay for quality supervision as opposed
to what I learned, “You get what you pay for”. Some helpful sites to seek out a qualified supervisor are:
--Meetmysupervisor.com
--FMHCA website
--Supervisordirectory.com
I am on all three of these websites, and available for face to face supervision in the Orlando area and on the in-
ternet through a confidential website at Breakthrough.com
Scott Jones
Psychotherapist
LMHC
CAP (Certified Addictions Specialist)
New Directions Counseling
Orlando FL
A Qualified Supervisors Lesson Learned
Be Active in FMHCA - Join A Committee
Interested in becoming more active with FMHCA but not sure how to get started? Consider joining a committee!
Participating in a FMHCA committee allows you to Interact with professionals who share your passions while providing
a valuable service to FMHCA. Let's face it - change doesn't happen by itself. We need YOU to help us make a differ-
ence! There are several opportunities for you to get involved - consider any of the following committees:
Ethics Committee
Membership Committee
Graduate Students & Registered Interns Committee
Chapter Relations Committee
Finance Committee
Nominations & Elections Committee
Governmental Relations Committee
Conference Planning Committee
Education, Training, Standards, & Continuing Education Training Committee
Military Service Committee
Research Committee
Feeling especially interested in any of those topics? Consider being a committee chair - you'll be surprised how rewarding
it can be to help make things happen!
Email [email protected] to express your interest. Thank you!
FMHCA is seeking Graduate Students and Registered Interns to contribute monthly articles for our
newsletter. This is a wonderful opportunity to share your point of view and your journey to licensure
with others while getting professional exposure. We're looking specifically for articles that will you're
your peers navigate the journey to graduation and licensure - study tips, resources, how-tos... there are so
many relevant topics worthy of investigation and discussion.
These articles will also help you train yourself on best practices - it's a win-win!
Please email [email protected] if you're interested in this opportunity.
Page 27 JUNE Volume 17, Issue 6
Session 7: Maternal Mental Health: What Therapists Need to Know Date:Friday, 6/23/17, 2:00-4:00 pm
Session 8: Working with Kinky Clients Date:Friday, 7/28/17, 2:00-4:00 pm
Session 9: Multicultural Counseling: A Mosaic, Not a Melting Pot Date:Friday, 8/25/17, 2:00-4:00 pm
Session 10: Navigating Professional Practice Boundaries: From Telehealth to Portability Date:Friday, 9/22/17, 2:00-4:00 pm
Session 11: Integrative Psychotherapies- New Paradigms in Psychotherapy Date: Friday, 10/27/17, 2:00-4:00 pm
Session 12: How to Have the Difficult Conversation You’ve Been Avoiding with Family, Coworkers, Parents, Partners or
Children Date:Friday, 11/10/17, 2:00-4:00 pm
Session 13: Addressing Tobacco Use in Behavioral Health Date: Friday, 12/8/17, 2:00-4:00 pm
Member Perk
Page 29 JUNE Volume 17, Issue 6
Learn about perinatal mood disorders, resources for families, treatment options, and community advocacy.
Learning Objectives:
By the close of the webinar, participants should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the types of mater-nal mental illnesses, and will be able to discuss treatment options and resources available for women and fami-lies.
(1) Participants will be able to identify and describe the symptoms commonly experienced in clients diag-nosed with a mental illness in the perinatal period.16
Participants will be encouraged to explore additional material related to maternal mental illness and assume an advocacy role and will be given the resources to do so
CE Broker Tracking #: 20-548601
About the Presenter:
Latoya Carbonell, LCSW, is a south Florida therapist specializing in women's issues. Latoya has educated countless caregivers on parenting skills and child development needs. Her main areas of interest include perinatal mood disorders, fertility counseling, and attachment parenting. She participates in the Safe Kids Coalition of Broward County, and is a member of NASW, RE-SOLVE, and ASRM.
Maternal Mental Health: What Therapists Need to Know 13 June 2017 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Page 31 JUNE Volume 17, Issue 6