Therapeutic Court Association of Washington and Washington Association of Drug Courts

WDVA Workshop: Chronic Pain, Trauma, and Recovery
2026-05-15 09:00 - 16:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Online
Time: 9:00pm-4:00pm
Location: Virtual
Instructor: Matthew Jakupcak, Ph.D.
CE credits: 6 CE’s (pending)
Course Description:
This workshop highlights for learners the prevalence and high rate of comorbidity between chronic pain and trauma-related reactions such as PTSD, depression, and health-related anxiety, particularly among veteran populations. Theoretical mutual-maintenance models (Asmundson, Coons, Taylor & Katz, 2002; Sharp & Harvey, 2001) are helpful for clinicians to understand how these two conditions interact to create a “vicious cycle” of arousal and avoidance, where physical pain, bodily vigilance and cued trauma reactions reinforce one another, leading to significant disability and reduced quality of life.
Dr. Jakupcak will present information specific to the interrelationships between chronic pain and trauma, including posttrauma reactions such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, and healthy anxiety. In addition, Dr. Jakupcak will review the applications evidence-based treatments that can address both chronic pain functioning and common co-occurring mental health conditions, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Behavioral Activation (BA).
Objectives:
At the end of this training participants will:
Be able to describe theoretical frameworks where PTSD symptoms (like hyperarousal and avoidance) increase pain sensitivity and bodily vigilance, informing greater disability and impairment. (Mutual Maintenance Models)
Learn about specific evidence-based therapies such as CBT, ACT and BA to help patients re-engage in life activities despite pain and stress. This course emphasizes “valued living”—moving toward what matters rather than just “fixing” symptoms. (Breaking the Cycle)
Develop strategies for addressing specific common hurdles to recovery such as opioid use, sleep disturbances, and the “numbing” symptoms of trauma and PTSD that often interfere with traditional pain rehabilitation. (Clinical Challenges)
References:
Holley AL, Wilson AC, Noel M, Palermo TM. Post-traumatic stress symptoms in children and adolescents with chronic pain: A topical review of the literature and a proposed framework for future research. Eur J Pain. 2016 Oct;20(9):1371-83.
Otis JD, Comer JS, Keane TM, Checko Scioli E, Pincus DB. Intensive Treatment of Chronic Pain and PTSD: The PATRIOT Program. Behav Sci (Basel). 2024 Nov 16;14(11):1103.
Ravn S, Hartvigsen J, Hanse M, Sterling M, Elmose T. Do post-traumatic pain and post-traumatic stress symptomatology mutually maintain each other? A systematic review of cross-lagged studies. Pain 2018;159:2159–69.
Featured Speakers
INSTRUCTOR
Photo of Matthew Jakupcak, PhD
Matthew Jakupcak, PhD
Clinical Psychologist, Matthew Jakupcak, Ph.D.
“Therapeutic Court Association of Washington is sharing this event for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with, endorsing, or sponsoring the event.”

Best Practices Book Club: Drug and Alcohol Testing
2026-05-15 12:00 - 13:00 | Online
The next chapter in our Best Practice Book Club series is Friday, May 15th! We will be exploring and discussing the Best Practice Standard on Drug and Alcohol Testing!
📅 Friday, May 15, 2026
🕛 12:00 – 1:00 pm (maybe a little longer if you can and want to stay)
Please read pages 185-202 (Standard and Commentary) of the Adult Treatment Court Best Practice Standards ahead of time, if you are able to find the time, to guide our conversation.
Please share with all members of your therapeutic court team.
Click the link below for more information and to register.
👉 Best Practice Book Club – Drug and Alcohol Testing | Join meeting in Teams | Microsoft Teams
This series is open to all therapeutic court professionals and is designed to provide space for learning, reflection, and discussion on the Best Practice Standards.
You did not need to have attended previous sessions to attend this session or any future sessions.
________________________________________
Save the Dates – 2026
BPBC is for all team members on any Therapeutic Court team.
Quarterly Coordinator Meetings are for Therapeutic Court Coordinators, Managers, and Case Managers.
2026
• 05/15/26, Noon – BPBC: Drug and Alcohol Testing
• 06//26/26, Noon – BPBC: Substance Use, Mental Health, and Trauma Informed Care
• 07/17/26, 10 am – Quarterly Coordinators Meeting: Outreach for Program Growth
• 08/21/26, Noon – BPBC: Topic TBD
• 09/18/26, Noon – BPBC: Topic TBD
• 10/28-29/26 – TCAofWA State Conference
• 10/??/26, TBD – Quarterly Coordinators Meeting: Topic TBD (this session will be held in person at the State Conference. We are looking at making this session hybrid for those unable to attend the conference)
________________________________________
“Therapeutic Court Association of Washington is sharing this event for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with, endorsing, or sponsoring the event.”

Therapeutic Court Alumni Recovery Celebration
2026-05-16 11:00 - 15:00 | Sarg Hubbard Park, 111 South 18th St., Yakima, WA, 98901, United States
WSTCAA May 2026 Celebration Flyer2pdf

Say it Out Load Conference
2026-05-18 08:00 - 17:00 | Tulalip Resort Casino, 10200 Quil Ceda Blvd, Tulalip, WA, 98271, United States
Brought to you by Peer Workforce Development and the Washington Health Care Authority
Say It Out Loud conference: Monday, May 18, 2026, at the Tulalip Resort and Casino, Tulalip, Wash.
This year’s theme, Unapologetically Us! Bold Voices, Bright Futures!, reflects Washington State’s commitment to centering 2SLGBTQIA+ voices, celebrating lived experience, and strengthening behavioral health supports across Washington State.
Now in its 25th year, the Say It Out Loud (SIOL) conference is built for peers, providers, advocates, partners, and community members who believe in creating systems of care where everyone is valued, heard, and supported.
Why Attend SIOL 2026

Build meaningful community and connections
Learn from workshops, panels, and conversations rooted in lived experience
Gain practical skills you can bring back to your work or organization
Engage in an affirming space designed to inspire, ground, and energize
Discover new resources, partnerships, and ideas

The Say It Out Loud conference has been a force for change and support in Washington since 2001 and is sponsored by Peer Workforce Development and the Washington Health Care Authority.
SIOL is grounded in the belief that culturally responsive, affirming care improves outcomes — and that the voices of those most impacted must be centered in that work. SIOL offers a space for learning, reflection, and practical tools you can take back to your workplace or community.
Register Here: Say It Out Loud Conference Registration
Apply for a scholarship
Say It Out Loud (SIOL) Community Scholarships support individuals who want to attend the conference as participants and need financial support to do so.
Community Scholarships cover conference registration. For recipients traveling 50 miles or more from the conference venue, one night of hotel lodging may also be available to help reduce travel-related barriers.
Scholarships are limited. Please request only what you truly need so we can support as many community members as possible.

Read the scholarship guide

Supporting FCS Participants Experiencing Psychosis: Practical Communication and Care Planning Tools for Supported Employment Providers
2026-05-18 10:00 - 12:00 | Online
Brought to you by DSHS:
Details
Supported employment staff are often called on to help when a job seeker is experiencing paranoia, delusional thinking, or other psychosis related symptoms and is declining practical services because they do not believe anything is wrong. In these situations, trying to argue the facts usually does not help and can quickly damage trust. This webinar offers supported employment providers a respectful, practical approach for staying connected, reducing escalation, and continuing to support the person’s employment goals.
Participants will learn a non-confrontational communication approach and practice brief, usable scripts that acknowledge feelings without reinforcing inaccurate beliefs. The training then translates those skills into a one-page Shared Job Support Plan, a tool for identifying next steps together even when a person is declining treatment or other services.
Objectives:
Identify how reduced insight can show up in psychotic disorders and how it affects engagement, helping staff shift from trying to convince someone to focus on connection and practical planning.
Apply a structured, non-confrontational communication approach to respond to delusional beliefs in a way that reduces escalation, supports trust, and avoids reinforcing the belief itself.
Develop a Shared Job Support Plan that helps move services forward even when a person declines support, by focusing on goals, day to day functioning, early warning signs, and small, realistic next steps.
Recognize when it may be appropriate to involve behavioral health partners, crisis supports, or coordinated specialty care resources, especially when workplace functioning or safety concerns begin to increase.
Speakers (1)
Mehrnoosh, Nicholas (DSHS/HCLA/HCS)
R1 BEHAVIOR SUPPORT TRAINER
DSHS-ALT
Nicholas “Nick” Mehrnoosh is a Behavior Support Trainer with Washington State’s Home and Community Services within the Home and Community Living Administration. He holds a Master of Science in Psychology from Eastern Washington University and is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and designated Mental Health Professional in Washington State.

Free Positive Indian Parenting (PIP) train-the-trainer courses
2026-05-19 00:00 - 2026-05-20 23:59 | Colville Indian Agency, Nespelem, WA, 99155, United States
DCYF is offering Positive Indian Parenting (PIP) Train-the-Trainer courses at no cost. Visit the developer website to learn more about this program.
These courses prepare facilitators to educate and support Native parents using a culturally specific approach. Trainings provide participants with a manual that contains instructional materials for eight PIP sessions, each grounded in traditional Native teachings about child rearing.
Organizations interested in providing PIP to their community are encouraged to register. Registration preference will be given to Tribes, Native Serving Organizations, and Recognized American Indian Organizations in Washington state.
Please complete the registration form to sign up. Events include:
• March 3-5, 2026: In-Person at Elwha Klallam Heritage Center 401 E 1st St., Port Angeles, WA
• May 19-21, 2026: In-Person at Colville Indian Agency, Nespelem, WA
For questions, please email Shannel Squally-Janzen.
Register here: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/019a373d27a87432a228257ba5470859
“Therapeutic Court Association of Washington is sharing this event for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with, endorsing, or sponsoring the event.”

Free Positive Indian Parenting (PIP) train-the-trainer courses
2026-05-19 00:00 - 2026-05-21 23:59 | Colville Indian Agency, Nespelem, WA, 99155, United States
Brought to you by the Athena prevention newsletter:
DCYF is offering Positive Indian Parenting (PIP) Train-the-Trainer courses at no cost. Visit the developer website to learn more about this program.
These courses prepare facilitators to educate and support Native parents using a culturally specific approach. Trainings provide participants with a manual that contains instructional materials for eight PIP sessions, each grounded in traditional Native teachings about child rearing.
Organizations interested in providing PIP to their community are encouraged to register. Registration preference will be given to Tribes, Native Serving Organizations, and Recognized American Indian Organizations in Washington state.
Please complete the registration form to sign up. Events include:

March 3-5, 2026: In-Person at Elwha Klallam Heritage Center 401 E 1st St., Port Angeles, WA
May 19-21, 2026: In-Person at Colville Indian Agency, Nespelem, WA

For questions, please email Shannel Squally-Janzen.

Practitioner Training: Coordinators
2026-05-19 08:00 - 2026-05-22 17:00 | Oklahoma City, OK, Oklahoma City, OK
Brought to you by AllRise:
The All Rise Practitioner Training is designed exclusively for treatment court team members that serve as coordinators. This four day in-person training offers an in-depth education on your role in treatment courts facilitated by national experts. Research confirms that individualized training improves treatment court outcomes. During the Practitioner Training, you will receive dynamic education on your role, treatment court team dynamics, drug testing, treatment, incentives and sanctions, and other key topics.
This training includes opportunities to network with your colleagues, share ideas, ask questions, and participate in breakout discussions by court type and moderated discussions on burning issues. Plus, breakfast and lunch are included with your registration fee!

Register by: April 20, 2026

Leading a multi-generational workforce
2026-05-19 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Tuesday, May 19 @ 1 p.m. ET
Today, four generations staff our courts, each bringing a wide range of experiences and talents along with different communication styles, expectations, and approaches to work. These differences show up in a variety of ways across departments and roles, both enhancing the workplace and possibly presenting management challenges.
Join us as our panelists discuss practical leadership strategies for navigating and leveraging generational differences within the court environment. Together, they will explore how these differences impact the workforce, how to capitalize on the strengths of a multi-generational workforce, how to foster a culture of collaboration and teamwork through respect and flexibility, and why avoiding generational stereotypes matters.
After attending this webinar, you will be able to:
• Distinguish generational characteristics through a professional lens.
• Recognize and avoid generational biases.
• Identify the impact of generational differences in the court workforce.
• Describe the benefits and opportunities of cross-generational work.
• Discuss how generational differences affect recruitment and retention.
Moderator:
• DeShield Greene, senior court management consultant, NCSC
Panelists:
• Dana Bartocci, human resources and development director, Minnesota Judicial Branch
• Aimee Lay, employee growth & development advisor, Kentucky Department of Human Resources
• David Yamasaki, executive officer, Orange County Superior Court, California
For more information, email Lauren Roth.
Description
Support your team’s growth through intentional development strategies. This session focuses on fostering motivation, creating opportunities for advancement, and building a culture of continuous learning and achievement.
Date & Time
Time shows in
Pacific Time (US and Canada)
May 19, 2026 10:00 AM
Aug 18, 2026 10:00 AM
Sep 15, 2026 10:00 AM
“Therapeutic Court Association of Washington is sharing this event for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with, endorsing, or sponsoring the event.”

NAMI Webinar: Navigating Schizophrenia in Black & Hispanic Communities (Rompiendo el Silencio)
2026-05-19 12:00 - 13:00 | Online
Date & Time
May 19, 2026 12:00 PM in
Pacific Time (US and Canada)
Description
Schizophrenia remains largely unspoken, yet for millions, it is a lived reality shaped by resilience, family, and the pursuit of dignity. In recognition of World Schizophrenia Awareness Day (May 24), we welcome you to a meaningful webinar focused on humanizing this diagnosis and highlighting often overlooked voices in the mental health conversation.
Join us for an intimate conversation exploring the intersection of culture, storytelling, and advocacy within Black and Hispanic communities.
What We’ll Explore:
1) How open dialogue can dismantle cultural taboos and foster healing.
2) Insights into the unique challenges faced by Spanish-speaking and Black communities.
3) How personal journeys with schizophrenia can drive policy change and criminal justice reform.
4) Moving beyond clinical labels to prioritize support, access, and human connection.
“Therapeutic Court Association of Washington is sharing this event for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with, endorsing, or sponsoring the event.”

LGBTQ+ Veteran Allyship, Workshop 1 of 3: The LGBTQ+ Veteran Experience and LGBTQ+ Military History
2026-05-19 13:00 - 15:00 | Online
LGBTQ+ Veteran Allyship, Workshop 1 of 3: The LGBTQ+ Veteran Experience and LGBTQ+ Military History
Time: 1:00pm-3:00pm
Location: Virtual/Online
Instructor: Robin Lang, WDVA LGBTQ+ Veteran Program Manager
CE credits: Unavailable for this course at this time.
Course Description:
In this workshop, we look at how past policies impact LGBTQ+ veterans, shape their experiences, and affect their risk profile. We look at current executive orders that affect LGBTQ+ veterans as well as active-duty service members. As providers of benefits and services that affect veteran families in addition to the veteran, we touch on how those executive orders impact spouses, children, family, friends, and co-workers. The workshop closes with a look at LGBTQ+ veterans throughout history. Many veterans served under different circumstances, but regardless of when they served, we see the universal constant is discrimination and harassment and how resilience and determination to demand fair treatment and equal rights prevail.
Learning Objectives:
Understand the LGBTQ+ Veteran Experience through the lenses of cultural forces and current viewpoints.
Learn the impact of historical policies on veteran risk profiles and specific risk profile categories.
Recognize groups impacted, and effects caused by DoD and Executive policies, the veteran community, and the civilian community.
Learn the impact of current executive orders, rescinded orders, and State laws on those currently serving, veterans, family members, friends, and acquaintances.
Recognize individual contributions of LGBTQ+ veterans throughout history, and recognize commonalities of service across generations.
“Therapeutic Court Association of Washington is sharing this event for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with, endorsing, or sponsoring the event.”

Beyond Good Intentions: Addressing Ableism in FCS Service Provision
2026-05-19 15:00 - 16:00 | Online
Beyond Good Intentions: Addressing Ableism in FCS Service Provision
Date & Time
May 19, 2026 03:00 PM in
Pacific Time (US and Canada)
Description
Date / Time of Webinar: Tuesday, May19th 3pm PST to 430pm PST
Learning Objectives:
• Define ableism and distinguish between individual, structural, and internalized ableism
• Identify how ableism shows up in FCS service delivery
• Analyze the impact of ableism on engagement, outcomes, and equity
• Apply strengths-based, recovery-oriented, and person-directed strategies to reduce ableism in practice
• Reflect on our own assumptions and service patterns using a practice audit lens
• Description of Webinar:
This training examines how ableism, often subtle and systemic, shows up in our behavioral health services. Participants will build awareness, identify practice-level impacts, and develop concrete strategies to promote equity, autonomy, and recovery-oriented services for individuals. Participants will explore how ableism can be embedded in everyday decisions, including goal setting, service planning, documentation, and risk assessment. The session will explore how even well-intentioned practices can unintentionally limit opportunity when expectations are lowered or choice is constrained. Participants will leave with practical tools to recognize and interrupt ableism strengthening engagement and advancing more equitable service delivery across Washington State FCS programs.
Name of Presenter: Amy Banko MS, LPC, NCC, CIPS, CPRP
Shorter Bio of Presenter:
Ms. Banko is a Lecturer in the Department of Psychiatric Rehabilitation and Counseling Professions at Rutgers, where she serves as a trainer and implementation consultant at the Integrated Employment Institute. In this role, she facilitates trauma-informed supported employment (SE) and supported education (SEd) training and provides implementation support to enhance practitioner competencies and program outcomes. She co-developed the first mobile outreach Supported Education program in New Jersey and has since continued this work for over 15 years.
“Therapeutic Court Association of Washington is sharing this event for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with, endorsing, or sponsoring the event.”

LGBTQ+ Veteran Allyship, Workshop 2 of 3: WDVA LGBTQ+ Veteran Program, Common Yet Harmful Experiences and Washington State Definition of Veteran
2026-05-20 13:00 - 15:00 | Online
LGBTQ+ Veteran Allyship, Workshop 2 of 3:
WDVA LGBTQ+ Veteran Program, Common Yet Harmful Experiences and Washington State Definition of Veteran
Time: 1:00pm-3:00pm
Location: Virtual/Online
Instructor: Robin Lang, WDVA LGBTQ+ Veteran Program Manager
CE credits: Unavailable for this course at this time.
Course Description:
In this workshop, we learn about the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs LGBTQ+ Veterans Program, one of only two legislatively mandated state programs in the nation. We also learn about the recently expanded State of Washington definition of Veteran which allows more veterans to be eligible for state benefits. We will learn how this will impact veterans and address past inequalities.
Learning Objectives:
Identify resources available to service and benefit providers.
Identify resources available to LGBTQ+ veterans and families
Recognize the effects of commonplace but significant behaviors on LGBTQ+ folx.
Identify the impacts of race, sexual trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury diagnosis, PTSD, mental health disorders, sexual identity and gender identity on accessing benefits
Understand the impact of Washington State’s expanded definition of veteran
Identify resources for veterans impacted by errors in, or injustices caused by incorrect information in official DoD records
Recognize pathways available for those impacted by Article 125 convictions, unfavorable discharges and characterization of serve, errors, and injustices.
“Therapeutic Court Association of Washington is sharing this event for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with, endorsing, or sponsoring the event.”

Emotion Regulation Strategies for Sustainable Employment
2026-05-21 08:00 - 10:00 | Online
Washington Health Care Authority (HCA) Foundational Community Supports (FCS) team in partnership with Rutgers School of Psychiatric Rehabilitation and Counseling Professions eagerly invite you to join our upcoming 4-part Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) guided employment series!
Session 3: Emotion Regulation Strategies for Sustainable Employment 5/21 8:30 am to 10 am (Pacific) Description: Learn Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) strategies to help individuals understand and regulate emotions that affect motivation, follow-through, workplace behavior, and long-term job retention. Training Objectives: • Learn how managing emotions affects motivation, follow-through, and overall work performance. • Explore practi
Other sessions:
Dates: March 19, April 16 May 21, June 18
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 10 a.m. (Pacific)
Part one: Introduction to DBT & Mindfulness Strategies for Career Readiness
Explore core DBT mindfulness skills and how they help individuals stay focused, reduce job-related anxiety, and make intentional choices throughout the job search and employment process.
Part two: Distress Tolerance Strategies for Employment Stressors
Learn how to teach individuals DBT distress tolerance skills to manage crises, handle job-related stress, and build emotional resilience during the job search and early stages of employment.
Part three: Emotion Regulation Strategies for Sustainable Employment
Learn Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) strategies to help individuals understand and regulate emotions that affect motivation, follow-through, workplace behavior, and long-term job retention.
Part four: Interpersonal Effectiveness Strategies for Workplace Success
Gain Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)-informed tools for teaching individuals how to communicate effectively, assert needs, set boundaries, and navigate workplace relationships with confidence, from interviews to daily interactions with supervisors and coworkers.
Register Here: Webinar Registration – Zoom
“Therapeutic Court Association of Washington is sharing this event for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with, endorsing, or sponsoring the event.”

Setting the Stage: Strengthening Communication & Collaboration in Staffing
2026-05-22 12:30 - 14:00 | Online
The first session in Judge Bull’s three-part series on staffing is next week!
In Setting the Stage: Strengthening Communication & Collaboration in Staffing, Judge Bull shares how teams can communicate and collaborate more effectively in the lead-up to court—and how that communication helps shape a more focused, productive courtroom experience for participants and staff.
Following the 90-minute presentation, Judge Bull will answer your questions. Bring your unique staffing challenges, and get practical guidance on how to apply session principles to your program.
We hope to see you there!
Best,
The Reconnect Team
Date: Friday, May 22, 2026
Time: 3:30 – 5:00 PM ET
Register Now
“Therapeutic Court Association of Washington is sharing this event for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with, endorsing, or sponsoring the event.”

LGBTQ+ Veteran Allyship, Workshop 3 of 3: Inclusive Practices
2026-05-22 13:00 - 15:00 | Online
LGBTQ+ Veteran Allyship, Workshop 3 of 3: Inclusive Practices
Time: 1:00pm-3:00pm
Location: Virtual/Online
Instructor: Robin Lang, WDVA LGBTQ+ Veteran Program Manager
CE credits: Unavailable for this course at this time.
Course Description:
In this workshop, we cover LGBTQ+ cultural competencies and ways to be a better ally. Topics include sexual identities, gender identities, gender expression, emotional attraction, sexual attraction, intersectionality, dominant culture, pronouns, inclusive practices, privilege, and coming out.
Learning Objectives:
The overarching objective of this workshop is, that by learning about LGBTQ+ veteran experiences, available resources, and inclusive practices, it will help participants create a welcoming environment where LGBTQ+ veterans can receive their benefits or services without fear of mistreatment. Participants will:
Understand cultural competence and allyship.
Recognize symbols of allyship and their impact.
Identify common sexual identities and gender identities.
Understand gender binary and non-binary folx.
Identify and recognize common LGBTQ+ flags.
Understand the process of coming out.
Understand the impact of Intersectionality.
Understand gender pronouns and pronoun etiquette.
Identify and recognize the impact of Dominant Culture.
Differentiate between Gender Identity, Gender Expression, Sex assigned at birth, Physical attraction and Emotional attraction.
Understand common terms in the LGBTQ+ community, and the impact of evolving language.
Recognize privileges not experienced by many LGBTQ+ folx that dominant culture takes for granted.
“Therapeutic Court Association of Washington is sharing this event for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with, endorsing, or sponsoring the event.”

NAMICON 2026
2026-05-27 00:00 - 2026-05-29 23:59 | Atlanta Marriott Marquis, 265 Peachtree Center Ave NE, Atlanta, GA, 930303, United States
Brought to you by NAMI:
Be part of a compassionate community where connection fuels learning, conversations spark ideas, and support turns into action
long after the conference ends.

Transformation

Inspiration

Collaboration

→ Communities of faith
→ Community leaders
→ Local, state, and federal policymakers

→ Service members, veterans, and their families
→ Mental health care providers
→ People with lived experience
→ Family caregivers and supporters

→ Youth and young adults
→Voices of Communities Facing Barriers to Care
→Mental health champions

Find Your Community
Whether you’re living with a mental health condition, supporting a loved one, or advocating for systemic change, you’ll find a space where your experiences are valued and your voice is heard.

Ignite Your Passion
Engage in thought-provoking discussions, discover new approaches to mental wellness, and explore ways to turn your passion for mental health advocacy into meaningful action.

Drive Lasting Change
Attend engaging sessions, making meaningful connections with other advocates, and gain practical tools that will help shape policy changes, reduce stigma, and make a lasting impact on the future of mental health.

Register Here: Attend: NAMICon 2026
“Therapeutic Court Association of Washington is sharing this event for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with, endorsing, or sponsoring the event.”

Preventing Veteran Suicide by Combating Stigma
2026-05-28 10:00 - 11:30 | Online
Preventing Veteran Suicide by Combating Stigma
Time: 10:00am-11:30am
Location: Virtual/Online
Instructor: Don Seese, WDVA Suicide Prevention Program Lead
CE credits: Unavailable for this course at this time.
Course Description:
This session will explore some of the stigmas that service members, veterans, and family members (SMVF) experience in and out of the service. Stigma remains a significant barrier to seeking help, contributing to isolation, misinformation, and lack of access to essential mental health services. The training focuses on understanding the types of stigmas (self, public, and institutional), how stigma impacts mental health, and practical steps to reduce its presence. Participants will engage in meaningful discussion to challenge and address stigma, foster supportive peer networks, and promote help-seeking behavior.
Learning Objectives:
Understand and identify stigma and its impacts.
Ability to address stigma through actionable steps.
Ability to promote help-seeking behavior.
“Therapeutic Court Association of Washington is sharing this event for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with, endorsing, or sponsoring the event.”

Family-Centered Fridays: Accessibility considerations for treatment courts
2026-05-29 09:00 - 10:00 | Online
NCSC’s webinars offer free educational programming on critical issues facing the courts.
Family-Centered Fridays: Accessibility considerations for treatment courts
Friday, May 29 @ Noon ET
Treatment court teams, legal professionals, court service providers, and policymakers need an understanding of Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements and accessibility practices to strengthen organizational compliance, program design, and service delivery.
Join this Family-Centered Fridays webinar to learn about the new NCSC Guide on Accessibility Considerations for Treatment Courts. Specifically designed for treatment courts, the guide outlines basic accessibility principles and ADA requirements and provides practical tools and templates that support full participation and inclusivity for people with disabilities.
During the webinar, NCSC staff will provide an overview of the guide and highlight key considerations for courts. Panelists will also discuss incorporating accessibility training into problem-solving courts, handling modifications in treatment courts, and implementing modified policies.
Moderators:
• Grace Spulak, principal court management consultant, NCSC
• Lisa M. Williams, senior court management consultant, NCSC
Panelists:
• Leah Elsbernd, problem-solving coordinator, Colorado Judicial Department
• Judge Taryn L. Heath, presiding judge, Stark County (Ohio) Honor Court Veterans Treatment Court
For more information, email Miguel Trujillo.
“Therapeutic Court Association of Washington is sharing this event for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with, endorsing, or sponsoring the event.”

WDVA: Veteran Tobacco and Nicotine Use
2026-06-01 12:00 - 13:30, 2026-06-09 08:00 - 17:00 | Online
Veteran Tobacco and Nicotine Use
Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs VIRTUAL
Multiple dates between April 28, 2026 and June 09, 2026
Event Banner
Veteran Tobacco and Nicotine Use: Starting Conversations, Reducing Harm, and Referring to Quit
Location: Virtual/Online
Instructor: Josie Tracy, PhD, Harness Harm Reduction and Mental Health, PLLC
CE credits: Unavailable for this course at this time.
Dates/Times:
Wednesday, April 28th, 12:00 – 1:30 pm
Tuesday, May 12th, 3:00 – 4:30 pm
Thursday, May 21st, 10:00 – 11:30 pm
Monday, June 1st, 12:00 – 1:30 pm
Tuesday, June 9th, 3:00 – 4:30 pm
Course Description:
How do you start a conversation about a veteran’s tobacco use? How do mental health issues make it harder for veterans to quit nicotine? What are practical ways to reduce the harms of cigarette smoking, both for the smoker and their loved ones? If someone does want to quit, what’s the next step? This program is for anyone working with veterans, veteran tobacco/nicotine users, or concerned loved ones who want to help a veteran reduce their harms or quit completely.
In this workshop we will cover the basics of tobacco use disorder and military and veteran culture, including 1) the harms of tobacco & nicotine products, 2) how to start a discussion about quitting/changing, 3) overcoming barriers to quitting, 4) specific strategies for reducing harm, 5) effective medications and therapies for quitting and 6) how to refer veterans for next steps. Attendees will leave this workshop with practical knowledge for how to start these conversations, answer questions, and refer veterans who want help making a change.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of this training, participants will be able to:
Understand the context of tobacco use disorder in military veteran populations, including military culture, health impacts, and relationship to other mental health conditions commonly experienced by veterans.
Explain one (1) provider intervention to assess a veteran’s readiness to change their tobacco use.
Explain three (3) ways to reduce tobacco-related harms for veterans who are not ready to quit.
Understand medication and therapy support options for veterans ready to quit
Registration: Open
Multiple Event Dates Within Range
APR28TUESDAY to JUN09TUESDAY
See registration form for specific dates
Registration Closes
June 09, 2026 @ 6:00 pm
Location
Featured SpeakersView all featured speakers ▶
INSTRUCTOR
Photo of Josie Tracy, PhD
Josie Tracy, PhD
Owner, Harness Harm Reduction and Mental Health, PLLC
“Therapeutic Court Association of Washington is sharing this event for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with, endorsing, or sponsoring the event.”

8th Annual Trauma Informed Care Conference
2026-06-02 00:00 - 2026-06-04 23:59 | Legend’s Casino/Hotel, 580 Fort Road, Toppenish, WA, 98949, United States
Brought to you by Yakama Nation community members:
Registration Now Open!
8th Annual Trauma Informed Care Conference
Yakama Nation community members are invited to join us for the 8th Annual Trauma Informed Care Conference, happening June 2–4, 2026 at Legends Casino in Toppenish, WA.
This powerful three day event brings together community partners, educators, service providers, and families committed to healing, resilience, and culturally rooted wellness.
Register here: 8th Annual Trauma Informed Care Conference 2026 Registration Hotel Room Block Code: BKG1827
“Therapeutic Court Association of Washington is sharing this event for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with, endorsing, or sponsoring the event.”

H.R. 1 impacts for noncitizens
2026-06-04 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Brought to you by Apple Heealth:
Join us for the upcoming webinar on H.R. 1 impacts for noncitizens
Last year, House Resolution 1 (H.R. 1) was passed by Congress and signed into law by the president. This federal legislation will have significant impacts on Apple Health (Medicaid) eligibility.
H.R. 1 introduces new requirements that affect Apple Health (Medicaid) coverage for Washington state residents.
Our top priority is to implement new federal requirements in ways that minimize coverage loss and reduce customer burden. To support this effort HCA is hosting a webinar focused on these impacts.
Who should attend?
• Navigator organizations
• HCA community partners
• Anyone assisting individuals with Apple Health applications
Webinar information
• Date: June 4, 2026
• Time: 10 – 11 a.m.
Join Teams webinar (no registration required)
“Therapeutic Court Association of Washington is sharing this event for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with, endorsing, or sponsoring the event.”

WASAVP Presents: What Preventionists Need to Know About Sedatives (Including Alcohol)
2026-06-04 13:00 - 15:00 | Online
Sedative drugs – especially alcohol — cause more overall harm than trendier drugs because they are common, accepted, and easy for young people to access. But they tend to take a backseat to newer, headline grabbing drugs like fentanyl and methamphetamine.
To update the prevention field on sedative drugs (including alcohol), the Washington Association for Substance Misuse and Violence Prevention (WASAVP) is offering a training on June 4, 2026, from 1–3 PM: “What Preventionists Need to Know About Sedatives (Including Alcohol).” Please register and encourage your colleagues to register as well.
Eventbrite registration opens May 13, 2026, at rb.gy/a8glfa. The workshop costs about $120 total, which includes the $100 registration fee plus Eventbrite charges and Washington State sales tax.
Please copy the registration link into your browser if it does not work when you click on it.
Participants who complete the webinar will receive a certificate for 2 Continuing Education Hours. The training has also been submitted to the state prevention certification board for approval as 2 Drug Education Continuing Education Hours.
The facilitator/trainer is Steven Freng, Psy.D., MSW, CEO, Community Network Services.
The training will cover the following topics:
• History, cultural contexts and science about sedative and alcohol use.
• Current incidence and prevalence data.
• Effects, impacts, and consequences of sedative use.
• Pharmaceutical sedatives not developed for human use.
• Effects, impacts and consequences of alcohol use, including the outcomes for prenatal exposure.
For more information, contact Steve Freng, cnsseattle@aol.com, or, Scott Waller, tumh2o99@comcast.net.
“Therapeutic Court Association of Washington is sharing this event for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with, endorsing, or sponsoring the event.”

2nd Annual Youth Leadership & Wellness Conference
2026-06-08 00:00 - 23:59 | Legend’s Casino/Hotel, 580 Fort Road, Toppenish, WA, 98949, United States
Yakama Nation: Join us for a full‑day event dedicated to empowering our youth, building strong leaders, and creating space for healing, culture, and community strength.
A powerful, in‑person youth conference where you can:
• Learn how historical trauma impacts our communities/identities
• Build real‑life resilience + wellness skills
• Explore leadership tools to create positive change
• Turn your own experiences into strengths for advocacy
June 8, 2026 at Legend’s Casino Hotel, Toppenish, WA
Who Should Come?
Youth, parents, educators, mentors, and community leaders ready to support the next generation of strong, grounded leaders.
“Therapeutic Court Association of Washington is sharing this event for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with, endorsing, or sponsoring the event.”

Crisis Response Improvement Strategy (CRIS) Lived Experience Collaborative meeting
2026-06-08 13:00 - 15:00 | Online
Crisis Response Improvement Strategy (CRIS) Lived Experience Collaborative meeting on June 8
In 2021, the Washington State Legislature passed House Bill 1477, establishing the Crisis Response Improvement Strategy (CRIS) Committee and Steering Committee. The Steering Committee is responsible for developing recommendations for an integrated behavioral health crisis response and suicide prevention system.
To help with this work, the Steering Committee formed the Lived Experience Collaborative to ensure recommendations are informed by individuals and family members with lived experience of the system. The Lived Experience Collaborative is open to all individuals and family members with lived experience of behavioral health challenges.
The next Lived Experience Collaborative meeting is planned for Monday, June 8, from 1 to 3 p.m. Meeting information is provided below.
Meeting information
Monday, June 8, 1 to 3 p.m. via Teams
• Join the meeting.. Meeting ID: 276 975 898 984 581 Passcode: [REDACTED]
• View the meeting agenda.
• Meeting focus: This meeting will focus on data protection and privacy, Permanent Supportive Housing, and the future of the Lived Experience Collaborative.
Information about future meetings is available on the CRIS webpage.
View the CRIS webpage
“Therapeutic Court Association of Washington is sharing this event for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with, endorsing, or sponsoring the event.”

AllRise: Clinical vs. Forensic Drug Testing
2026-06-09 09:00 - 10:00 | Online
Session 3: Clinical vs. Forensic Drug Testing
Date & Time
Jun 9, 2026 09:00 AM in
Pacific Time (US and Canada)
Description
Drug testing is one of the most frequently used and most frequently misunderstood tools in treatment court settings. When used appropriately, drug testing can provide valuable clinical information to guide treatment decisions. When misused or misinterpreted, it can lead to inappropriate sanctions, erosion of the therapeutic alliance, ethical conflicts for providers, and poor outcomes for participants.
This session clarifies the critical distinctions between clinical and forensic drug testing, including differences in purpose, methodology, interpretation, and professional responsibility. Participants will review ASAM guidance on the appropriate use of drug testing and explore how courts’ expectations sometimes push treatment providers beyond their ethical scope of practice.
Using case examples, including false positives, misapplied results, and harmful court responses, participants will develop a clearer understanding of how to interpret drug testing results responsibly and communicate findings to court teams in a way that protects both clients and professional integrity.
Learning Objectives
1. Differentiate between clinical and forensic drug testing in terms of purpose, methodology, interpretation, and ethical responsibility.
2. Explain ASAM guidance regarding the appropriate clinical use of drug testing in addiction treatment.
3. Describe the ethical and professional risks of requiring treatment providers to function in forensic roles.
“Therapeutic Court Association of Washington is sharing this event for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with, endorsing, or sponsoring the event.”

From Crisis to Stability: Supporting Clients When Law Enforcement Is Involved
2026-06-10 11:00 - 12:30 | Online
Brought to you by HCA:
Date & Time
Jun 10, 2026 11:00 AM in
Pacific Time (US and Canada)
Description
Objectives/Takeaways:
• Analyze how law enforcement involvement and use-of-force risks impact individuals with serious mental health conditions during behavioral health crises
• Assess Washington State crisis response trends, systemic barriers, and available community resources to strengthen intervention planning
• Demonstrate evidence-based de-escalation, engagement, and prevention strategies that promote client safety, stability, and improved crisis outcomes
• Develop proactive FCS housing and service interventions that reduce crisis escalation and minimize unnecessary law enforcement involvement
Description of Webinar:
This focused 90-minute training is designed to strengthen your ability to effectively support individuals with serious mental health conditions during high-risk behavioral health crises. This practical session will equip you with concrete strategies to anticipate and reduce crisis escalation, apply evidence-based de-escalation approaches, improve collaboration with law enforcement, and use proactive housing and service interventions to decrease unnecessary police involvement. Participants will leave with stronger skills to enhance client safety, advocate more effectively during law enforcement interactions, prevent avoidable crises, and confidently promote stability-centered outcomes that protect both clients and communities.
Name of Presenter:
Earle Leitch, MS
Short Bio of Presenter:
Earle is a Senior Training and Consultation Specialist in the Rutgers School of Health Professions, Department of Psychiatric Rehabilitation and Counseling Professions. In this role, he facilitates psychiatric rehabilitation-informed Community Support Services training, consultation, technical assistance, and implementation support to enhance practitioner competencies and program outcomes. He developed the first Supervisors’ Learning Community for CSS provider agencies in NJ and facilitates the Buried in Treasures: Help for Compulsive Acquiring, Saving and Hoard
“Therapeutic Court Association of Washington is sharing this event for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with, endorsing, or sponsoring the event.”

2026 Washington Behavioral Healthcare Conference
2026-06-11 00:00 - 2026-06-12 23:59 | Three Rivers Convention Center, 7016 W Grandridge Blvd, Kennewick, WA, 99336, United States
2026 Washington Behavioral Healthcare Conference
CELEBRATING COMMUNITY BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
June 11 – 12, 2026 (pre-conference day June 10)
Three Rivers Convention Center
7016 W Grandridge Blvd, Kennewick WA 99336
Welcome to the 36th annual Washington Behavioral Healthcare Conference (WBHC), Celebrating Community Behavioral Health!
After so many years of change and instability, this theme was intentionally chosen to help uplift the provider community and the people we serve. We aim to honor behavioral health professionals, peers, and people in or moving toward recovery. The work you do each and every day is important, meaningful, and full of hope. We look forward to providing an opportunity for the behavioral health community to come together, to share best practices about life-saving treatment and supports, and to celebrate being the helpers. Our focus remains on the vital importance of expanding access to evidence-based behavioral health care, including community-based treatment and peer support services. We must continue to address inequities in our systems and include new and diverse voices who are essential to helping shape our path forward and meeting the needs of all Washingtonians.
We’ll weave these themes together when we meet in Kennewick in June, hearing from community providers, regional and national experts, and people with lived experience to share their wisdom, knowledge, and tools.
We’re especially excited to introduce the 2026 WBHC keynote speakers:
Ryan Campbell, a leading speaker on mental health & overcoming burnout
Chamique Holdsclaw, an Olympic Gold Medalist, WNBA Hall of Famer & mental health advocate
Shola Richards, best-selling author of Civil Unity and expert on resilience in organizations & individuals
This event will highlight 38 sessions; 34 workshops and, back by popular demand, 4 TED-style talks! Tracks at the WBHC will focus on recovery & resiliency, leadership, management & operations, innovative care practices, corrections & mental health, substance use & co-occurring disorders, and more.
Visit one of the tabs at the top of this page to learn more, or click HERE to download the brochure. If you’re ready to register, click on the Register Now button to get started!
Register Now
Already registered?
Questions? Email us at wbhc@thewashingtoncouncil.org
We gratefully acknowledge support for the WBHC from the Health Care Authority/Division of Behavioral Health & Recovery, and the Department of Corrections.
Funding for this conference was made possible (in part) by SAMHSA. The views expressed in written conference materials or publications and by speakers and moderators do not necessarily reflect the official policies of the Department of Health and Human Services, nor does the mention of trade names, commercial practices, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Government.
“Therapeutic Court Association of Washington is sharing this event for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with, endorsing, or sponsoring the event.”

Introduction to Community Care Hubs webinar
2026-06-16 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Register for the Introduction to Community Care Hubs webinar on June 16
Community Care Hubs are community-driven, regional networks that help people connect to social and health services that match their unique needs. Community Care Hubs operate under their regional Accountable Community of Health (ACH) to support the needs of individuals and families. When people receive support—such as housing, food, mental health care, or childcare—their health and the health of their communities improves.
Community Care Hubs help improve community health by:
• Connecting people to social and health services,
• Building capacity for community organizations and workers, and
• Connecting systems through referral coordination.
Webinar details
This webinar is an opportunity to learn how Community Care Hubs can integrate into the work you’re already doing. You’ll learn how to refer clients to Community Care Hubs and what individuals can expect once connected.
• Date: Tuesday, June 16
• Time: 10 – 11 a.m.
Register here!
This event intended for health care providers, social workers, and community-based organizations that connect individuals to health care needs.
Presenters:
• Becky Betts, Chief Operating Officer at Greater Health Now ACH
• Michelle Ahmed, Community Care Hub Director at Southwest Washington ACH
• Nichole Peppers, Executive Director at Coalition of ACHs
“Therapeutic Court Association of Washington is sharing this event for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with, endorsing, or sponsoring the event.”
