The Colorado Behavioral Health & Wellness Summit will bring together clinicians, educators, researchers, and policymakers as well as leaders in the field of behavioral health on the campus of the University of Denver for this three-and-a-half-day event. Participants will be able to discover new tools and resources, discuss practical strategies for change, and connect with colleagues and experts alike. Speakers and presenters will engage our community to break down silos statewide and to bridge the gaps in communication and collaboration.
Specifically, the Summit will provide various audiences with approaches to:

• awareness and education;
• training and clinical practice;
• and policy advocacy and action.

Mental Health Colorado Presentations

Behavioral Health Professionals for School-Aged Children: Exploring Inequities & Solutions in Colorado Schools and Communities

Presenters: Sarah Davidon, EdD, Director of Research & Child and Adolescent
Strategy, Mental Health Colorado, and Miriam Estrada, MA, Research Associate,
Mental Health Colorado

When: Thursday Oct 24, 8:30 – 9:45 AM
Where: Room TBD

This presentation will explore the need of increasing mental health professionals
in our Colorado public schools by exploring disparities across our state, solutions
passed this legislative session, and how communities are working collaboratively
to support the mental health of our youth. We present the power of mapping in
visualizing the extent and gravity of the need and problem, and how policymakers
and stakeholders can advocate for increasing support to our schools.

Children’s mental health: Rethinking the role of schools an the mental health system for children

Presenters: Sarah Davidon, EdD, Director of Research & Child and Adolescent
Strategy, Mental Health Colorado, and Sarah Younggren, LCSW, Child &
Adolescent Specialist, Mental Health Colorado

When: Thursday Oct 24, 1:00 – 2:15 PM
Where: Room TBD

Schools are where children spend many of their waking hours, and while they are
an optimal place to deliver mental health support, we know that schools cannot do
it alone, nor should they. Systems, communities, schools, and families must work
together to build a comprehensive continuum of care for children’s mental health
that truly meets the range of needs for all children and families. This presentation
will highlight how to design, advocate, and serve in the continuum of care
framework and what essential elements must be in place for the system to succeed.