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LCPS Mental Health and Wellness Conference 2025

We are delighted to have you join us at the upcoming 7th Annual Mental Health and Wellness Conference, organized by:
Loudoun County Public Schools Department of Student Services.
The event will take place at Watson Mountain Middle School on January 25, 2025, running from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Your participation is highly valued, and we are excited to offer you a day filled with valuable resources and support aimed at promoting mental well-being.
The primary goal of the conference is to raise awareness about mental health and provide effective wellness strategies in a diverse and inclusive environment. Your presence is important to us, and we are committed to ensuring that you have a remarkable experience. If you have any specific requirements or language preferences, please do not hesitate to inform us. Our aim is to foster a community that prioritizes well-being, offers support, and promotes understanding.
During the conference, you will have the opportunity to engage in various activities, interact with other participants, and share your insights using our designated hashtags: #lcpsmhwc2025, #unitedforwellness, and #onelcps.

You can tailor your experience by choosing sessions designed for ELEMENTARY, SECONDARY, or ALL LEVELS, based on your interests.

Address: 41480 Steeplechase Loop Dr., Leesburg, VA 20175

If, due to a disability, you need assistance to enable you to participate in a workshop or need a language interpreter, call Parent Resource Services at 571-252-6540 at least five business days prior to the event.

Si debido a una discapacidad usted requiere asistencia para poder asistir a este taller o si necesita un interprete de idioma, llame a Servicios de Recursos Para Padres al 571-252-6540 por lo menos cinco dias antes del evento.

OR

The Loudoun County Public Schools Department of Student Services is hosting the 7th Annual Mental Health and Wellness Conference at Watson Mountain Middle School on January 25, 2025, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The conference aims to provide resources and support for mental well-being, promoting awareness of mental health challenges and wellness strategies. Sessions cater to different age groups and are inclusive of all community members, offering accommodations for individuals with disabilities or language needs. Attendees are encouraged to engage in the event’s transformative experience, fostering a culture of wellness, support, and understanding within the community. Use hashtags #lcpsmhwc2025, #unitedforwellness, and #onelcps to share experiences and connect with others involved.

Address: 41480 Steeplechase Loop Dr., Leesburg, VA 20175

When registering for sessions, please review the audience level which will indicate sessions targeting: ELEMENTARY, SECONDARY, or ALL LEVELS

If, due to a disability, you need assistance to enable you to participate in a workshop or need a language interpreter, call Parent Resource Services at 571-252-6540 at least five business days prior to the event.

Si debido a una discapacidad usted requiere asistencia para poder asistir a este taller o si necesita un interprete de idioma, llame a Servicios de Recursos Para Padres al 571-252-6540 por lo menos cinco dias antes del evento.



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Type: Type 1 clear filter
Saturday, January 25
 

9:40am EST

A Trauma-informed Wellness Workshop for Parents of Children Diagnosed with Developmental Disabilities
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1210
Daily wellness practices can improve the mental, physical, and social-emotional well-being of parents and educators, thereby positively influencing their capacity to implement strategies that support learning outcomes for children that have developmental disabilities. This workshop will demonstrate how these practices can be used by parents and/or elementary educators in their daily life to support their emotional well-being, decrease stress, and engage with children mindfully.
Speakers
avatar for Jessica Woolson

Jessica Woolson

Specialized Instructional Facilitator-Behavior, Loudoun County Public Schools
Jessica Woolson is a master’s level board certified behavior analyst (BCBA), certified early childhood developmental specialist, yoga teacher, and wellness educator.  Most recently, Jessica completed a 200-hour Mindfulness, Social-emotional Learning, and Yoga Teacher Training through... Read More →
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1210
  Type 1

9:40am EST

ACE Interface: Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1302
Society has treated toxic stress felt by children as an oddity that is adequately dealt with by emergency response systems. The scientific research provided by the ACE study informs all about the consequences of stress during childhood. This presentation informs how to be aware of and combat this toxic stress.
Speakers
avatar for Shoko Brown

Shoko Brown

School Psychologist, Loudoun County Public Schools
Shoko Brown is a school psychologist at Ball’s Bluff Elementary, Leesburg Elementary and Lucketts Elementary school. She received a specialist level master’s degree in School Psychology from Saint Mary’s College of California. On weekends, she enjoys taking walks, eating spicy... Read More →
avatar for Ashley Olson

Ashley Olson

School Social Worker, Loudoun County Public School District - Ashburn, VA
Ashley Olson has been a school social worker for Loudoun County Public Schools for the last six years. After school she works as a therapist for children, adolescents and teens at NOVA LiveWellBeing. Ashley is not only passionate about supporting student's mental health with direct... Read More →
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1302
  Type 1

9:40am EST

Building resiliency in kids: How our best intentions can interfere with development and increase anxiety
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1407
Parents are bombarded with parenting advice. However, our best intentions can create unintentional roadblocks to building resiliency in kids, potentially increasing anxiety. Join us to discover effective strategies for fostering your child's resilience and breaking the cycle of anxiety.
Speakers
avatar for Matthew Christian

Matthew Christian

Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Therapist, Insight Into Action Therapy
Matt Christian, LCSW, is a therapist at Insight Into Action Therapy, specializing in working with teens, families, and adults. His work focuses on treating anxiety, depression/mood disorders, addiction, and trauma. Clients have commented that his genuine, “down-to-earth” approach... Read More →
avatar for Katherine Lutz

Katherine Lutz

Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Insight Into Action Therapy
Katherine Lutz, LCSW-S, is a therapist at Insight Into Action Therapy. She specializes in working with children and adolescents. She is an enthusiastic proponent of the power of play, utilizing the “language of children” to guide youth in expressing, processing, and problem-solving... Read More →
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1407
  Type 1

9:40am EST

Connection, Curiosity and Compassion – Understanding and Navigating Challenging Behaviors
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1208
This workshop will focus on how to regulate and connect with your children, so they feel safe, seen and valued. Participants will learn that all behaviors are functional and “make sense” to the child, even the most difficult ones. Participants will learn how to become curious about behaviors and try to get to the root of the challenges. The focus will be on evidence-based strategies away from punitive punishment and towards supports for children navigating their feelings and reactions. Dealing with challenging behaviors all the time can be exhausting for families, an emphasis will also be placed on giving compassion to your child and yourself tips will be given to increase your compassion and understanding.

Information presented is founded in Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB) and the emerging field of Relational Neuroscience - the study of the behavioral, social and emotional brain. We are all “United in Wellness”, and learning about how and why our children are having challenging behaviors will help bring build wellness in us and our children.
The workshop will include some researched, neuroscience facts (in parent/caregiver friendly language), along with stories and examples of real life experiences. The presentation will use slides, brief video clips interactive discussions. Handouts with links will allow the participants to delve deeper into the topics after the workshop.
Speakers
avatar for Melissa Lebling

Melissa Lebling

Outreach and Family Support Specialist, Formed Families Forward
Melissa Lebling, is a mother to seven children, all who have had their fair share of challenging behaviors. She is the Family Support and Outreach Specialist at Formed Families Forward in Fairfax, Virginia. As an adoptee, a biological mother, a former foster parent, and an adoptive... Read More →
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1208
  Type 1

9:40am EST

Exercise & Mental Health
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1605
There is strong evidence showing a connection between physical and mental health. The World Health Organization, US Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, and an abundance of independent researchers have demonstrated that youth who exercise and participate in sport have a positive physical, mental health, and cognitive correlation. The evidence-based information we will present is targeted towards all grade levels. Children, parents, coaches, and administration will take home recommendations from several reputable agencies, organizations and universities that give individuals measurable and attainable goals for physical activity. Discussion will be had between our presenter and attendees regarding the current activity levels of our youth and what we can be doing to make sure we are ensuring a physiologically and psychologically healthy community. We will present information about how physical activity decreases depression, improves cognition, creates a positive self-image, decreases negative sedentary behavior, improves social skills, decreases the risk of substance abuse, and constructs habits for lifelong well-being.
Speakers
avatar for Daryl Copley

Daryl Copley

Director of Sports Science, National Sports Medicine Institute
Daryl is the Director of Sports Science at National Sports Medicine Institute. He has 15 years experience in the health & fitness industry and is committed to advancing sports performance through proper movement patterns and student-athlete education.
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1605
  Type 1

9:40am EST

Family Power and Engagement
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1403
This workshop will cover strategies to engage and communicate with your children and teens. Parents will learn the power of Restorative Language and Circles and how to increase positive affect with their children. Learn how to use restorative problem-solving and communication while building relationship.
Speakers
avatar for Lisa Harris

Lisa Harris

MSW, School Social Worker, Loudoun County Public Schools
I started off my social work career as a case manager for a six-family transitional housing program in Alexandria, Virginia. I was responsible for helping her families strengthen their parenting skills, maintain goals for stability, attain jobs, and find long term housing. I have... Read More →
avatar for Jennifer McLemore

Jennifer McLemore

LCSW, School Social Worker, Loudoun County Public Schools
My name is Jennifer McLemore (she/her) and I am a school social worker as well as a member of the Lightridge Unified Mental Health Team.  I love helping students and supporting the Lightridge community.  Before joining the staff at Lightridge, I worked for seven years at John Champe... Read More →
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1403
  Type 1

9:40am EST

Live your Fittest Life with a Balanced Approach to Nutrition and Wellness
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1305
In this presentation you will learn the 4 foundational habits to live your healthiest and most balanced life. Instead of thinking about what should be taken away from our lifestyle, we should be thinking about what needs to be ADDED for greater vitality. This includes how to create a balanced plate so that our kids are shown a nutritious way of fueling their bodies, incorporating movement to increase our overall energy and improve our mood throughout the day, how to make drinking water cool for your kids so they are not solely relying on sugary drinks. And the importance of recovery and how to wind down to lower stressors throughout the day. I am excited to help walk you through steps to add greater vitality and life into your day so you can live your healthiest life with your family.
Speakers
avatar for Christen Zammit

Christen Zammit

Owner, Fit Body Boot Camp
6 years in the Health and Fitness Industry. 5 years as a nutrition coach for the Fit Body Boot Camp organization. Has guided and helped thousands of individuals on their transformation journey to a healthier lifestyle. Currently owns and leads Fit Body Boot Camp in Ashburn and travels... Read More →
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1305
  Type 1

9:40am EST

Mental Health Considerations for Managing and Treating Adolescents with Concussion
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1606
Our clinical and research team has published several papers from our clinic here in Northern VA that outlines the impact that increased mood symptoms (i.e., anxiety and depression) has on concussion recovery outcomes in adolescents. We have translated these empirical findings to clinical care that executes a precision medicine approach for ameliorating the effects of concussion and expediting recovery to the classroom and/or athletic field. Our treatment strategies are contingent upon good at-home compliance and adherence – which are greatly benefitted by parent/guardian support. This presentation will provide an overview of the identification and treatment of post-concussion mood with adherence recommendations for at-home and in-school support. This session aligns with several conference themes such as the promotion of health and wellness, resilience, anxiety, and stress management. Participants’ knowledge of presentation content will be assessed via Poll Everywhere before and after the presentation.
Speakers
avatar for R.J. Elbin

R.J. Elbin

PhD, Director of Research for the Musculoskeletal Service Line
Dr. R.J. Elbin is Director of Research for the Musculoskeletal Service Line and a clinical research partner to the Inova Sports Medicine Concussion Program. Dr. Elbin received a doctorate in Kinesiology from Michigan State University in 2010 and completed a two-year post-doctoral... Read More →
avatar for Sabrina Jennings

Sabrina Jennings

Clinical Neuropsychologist, Inova Sports Medicine Concussion Program
Dr. Sabrina Jennings is a fellowship-trained clinical neuropsychologist with specialization in sport concussion management. She joined Inova Health System in 2020 and has been practicing since 2018. She serves as Fellowship Director in the Inova Sports Medicine Concussion Program... Read More →
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1606
  Type 1

9:40am EST

Much Ado about Eating Disorders
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1404
What are eating disorders? What factors contribute to the development of disordered eating behaviors and eating disorders? How do I get help if I am struggling, or help a friend or loved one who is struggling? This presentation will dive into the nutrition and therapeutic factors that contribute to the development of, and treatment of, eating disorders. This presentation will also identify and discuss positive nutrition and self care behaviors that can protect against poor body image and cultivate a healthy relationship with food. Participants will be able to identify signs and symptoms of an eating disorder, identify positive nutrition-related and self care behaviors that can be protective against poor body image and a negative relationship with food. In this presentation, we will talk about all things eating disorders; their etiology, their presentation, and their treatment. This presentation can appeal to students, administrators, and caregivers in that we will discuss cultivating a healthy relationship with food and body.
Speakers
avatar for Susan Kouzel

Susan Kouzel

Registered Dietitian-Nutrition Director, Prosperity Eating Disorders and Wellness Center
Susan Kouzel is the Nutrition Director and Registered Dietitian at Prosperity Eating Disorders and Wellness Center. She has worked with teens and adults with all different types of eating disorders since 2016, and is passionate about helping individuals reach a full recovery. She... Read More →
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1404
  Type 1

9:40am EST

No More Birds and Bees: Talking to Children and Teens about Healthy Relationships
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1602
Pervasive misconceptions hold that sexual violence prevention requires uncomfortable one-off conversations with teenagers (e.g., the traditional “Birds and Bees” script). However, recent evidence-based programming (e.g., Foshee, et al., 2012) demonstrates the efficacy of ongoing parental/caregiver involvement in employing developmentally appropriate approaches to educating children about consent and healthy relationship skills. This presentation will provide parents/caregivers and educators with evidence-based, actionable steps to incorporate educating children and teens about such skills in everyday interactions.
Speakers
avatar for Leighanne Greenberg

Leighanne Greenberg

Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator, LAWS Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Services
Leighanne Greenberg is the Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator at LAWS. Leighanne recruits and trains Loudoun County Community members to answer hotline calls, help out around LAWS Community Services Center, and get involved in prevention/awareness. 
avatar for Katherine Parker

Katherine Parker

Violence Prevention Specialist, LAWS Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Services
Katherine Parker is the Violence Prevention Specialist for LAWS Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Services in Leesburg, VA. In her role, she implements programming related to interpersonal violence prevention, such as trainings & workshops, as well as safe & healthy relationship... Read More →
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1602
  Type 1

9:40am EST

No More Nagging: Connecting to Tackle the “To Do” List and Beyond
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1607
This presentation will focus on RELATIONSHIP, as much as the tasks your child needs to do - as the connection between you is the most important contributor to your child’s development. In fact, your relationship is the vehicle through which you can help your child develop the skills to manage emotions, learn to prioritize, and tackle the things they need to get done. That does not mean that the “to do” aspects of communicating with your student - the homework, studying, chores - are not needed! When you are not seeing follow-through, it can be challenging, frustrating, anxiety-producing, for both you and your student! You’ll leave with practical, proven and relationship–based strategies to minimize those frustrations for you AND your student, increase task completion and ownership, and foster empathy and connection.
Speakers
avatar for Bridges Therapy&Wellness

Bridges Therapy&Wellness

Clinical Psychologist, Bridges Therapy and Wellness Center
Dr. Mullaley completed her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, with an Emphasis in Child and Family Psychology, at the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. She has worked in therapeutic schools and in private practice over the past 20 years, and has co-owed Bridges Therapy... Read More →
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1607
  Type 1

9:40am EST

Partnering with Parents to Reduce Anxiety in Elementary Age Students
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1207
This presentation will focus on the use of the Cool Kids program as an intervention to reduce feelings of anxiety in elementary age students. The school psychologist works with the student to change how they think about anxiety provoking events, and then develops a plan with the parents to change the behaviors.
Speakers
avatar for Joel Esslinger

Joel Esslinger

School Psychologist, Loudoun County Public Schools
I have worked as a school psychologist for 29 years, with 23 of those years in LCPS.   I have served as the psychologist for several LCPS schools, including elementary/middle/high, and currently am assigned to two elementary schools.  Unique job responsibilities/special interests... Read More →
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1207
  Type 1

9:40am EST

Secrets of The Greats for Mental, Spiritual, and Physical Performance
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1608
Elite performers and high achievers have fascinated the world for centuries. Their feats often seem impossible, yet they continue to break records, build new disciplines, and shift paradigms. But how do they do it? For centuries, we believed that elite performers and high achievers were born different. We thought they had innate talent we couldn't possess, born with superhuman discipline, or just surrounded with the right circumstances. We put them on pedestals and assumed their lives were perfect. But nothing could be further from the truth. Being elite isn't easy, it takes immense stress and sacrifice. What separates them from the rest?
Speakers
avatar for Ken Corigliano

Ken Corigliano

Motivational Speaker, MyndState.live
World Champion Athlete, Lt Col USAF, Subject Matter Expert in Human Autonomic System, Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Information Sciences, Geopolitics, Published Author
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1608
  Type 1

9:40am EST

Supporting the Safety and Wellness of Students in School through the Title IX Process
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1609
Title IX is a federal law that prohibits sex discrimination in education programs that receive federal financial assistance. This presentation will review current Title IX regulations on sexual harassment, how to file a formal complaint, and support and resources available to students who experience sexual harassment. The Title IX grievance process will also be reviewed.
Speakers
avatar for Christopher Moy

Christopher Moy

Division Title IX Coordinator, Loudoun County Public Schools
Christopher Moy is LCPS Division Title IX Coordinator. In this role, he oversees the Title IX process in responding to incidents of Title IX Sexual Harassment.  
avatar for Marco Pereira

Marco Pereira

Deputy Title IX Coordinator, Loudoun County Public School District - Ashburn, VA
Marco Pereira is a passionate advocate and protector of children for the past 12 years, dedicating his life to ensuring their safety and well-being. Mr. Pereira spent 10 years investigating child exploitation, human trafficking, and abuse cases at the federal, local, and state level... Read More →
avatar for Danyelle Reese

Danyelle Reese

Deputy Title IX Coordinator, Loudoun County Public Schools
Danyelle Reese is a committed public service professional with 14 years of experience in various capacities. She holds degrees in Psychology, Human Services, and a Doctor of Education in Community Care and Counseling. As an advocate for wellness, Dr. Reese emphasizes the importance... Read More →
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1609
  Type 1

9:40am EST

The Dangers of Fentanyl and the Current Youth Substance Use Trends
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1206
Attendees will gain a thorough understanding of the current landscape of youth substance use trends, information about the dangers of fentanyl, as well as tips and suggestions regarding how to engage in conversations with your child. In addition, school based and community resources will be shared.
Speakers
avatar for Blaise Carland

Blaise Carland

Student Assistance Specialist, Loudoun County Public Schools
Blaise Carland is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.  He has been in the field for 31 years working with adults, families, and teens addressing Substance Abuse and Mental Health Issues in settings ranging from long term residential to Private Practice.  For the past 8 years he has... Read More →
avatar for Sherry Hoover

Sherry Hoover

Student Assistance Specialist, Loudoun County Public Schools
Ms. Hoover was born in raised in Northern Virginia area. She has a Master’s in Counseling and Master’s in Forensic Psychology from Marymount University in Arlington, VA. In the State of Virginia has been a Licensed Professional Counselor for over 16 years and prior to that provided... Read More →
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1206
  Type 1

9:40am EST

The Joy of Breathing: Practices for a Calm Mind
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Aux Gym
Breathing is an essential part of our vitality, yet we under utilize this readily available tool to help navigate life’s challenges! This workshop is designed to develop an active understanding of breathwork rooted in yogic tradition called Pranayama and how to utilize simple techniques to create a big impact on our mental health. The many practices of yoga, including pranayama, are designed to create a unification within ourselves to allow for the reduction of an overactive mind and support individual mental health. There are many studies showing the positive effects of yoga on the mental and physical wellbeing of our youth. A 2023 study by the Norwegian University of Science and Technology found “practicing yoga made young people more aware of their need to relax and positively impacted their mental health and wellbeing.” In 2020, a study by Int. J. Nur. Edu. and Research found pranayama specifically was effective in reducing stress in adolescents (ages 12-17). Attendees will be given a brief anatomy lesson on how the breath impacts every organ, taught ideal posture for effective oxygen intake, and 6 different pranayama practices to both stimulate and calm the mind. All attendees will be asked to participate in the pranayama practices. Most practices will be seated, but some may ask for a standing position. All practices can be modified for individual needs. A handout will be provided describing each of the techniques in detail to continue the practice at home and with family members.
Speakers
avatar for Kirsten Shabanowitz

Kirsten Shabanowitz

Yoga and Meditation Teacher, Kiss of Yoga, LLC
Kirsten Shabanowitz, owner of Kiss of Yoga LLC, is a RYT 200 yoga and meditation teacher for kids through adults. Kirsten is a big believer in the power of yoga to support mental and physical health and offers classes and workshops to deepen understanding. Her goal is to not only... Read More →
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Aux Gym
  Type 1

9:40am EST

The Loneliness Epidemic: Its Impact on Youth and How We Can Help
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1205
This presentation will highlight key points from the U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy’s advisory declaring loneliness an epidemic. Research and statistics related to the loneliness epidemic with a focus on youth will be reviewed. The presentation will discuss the impact loneliness has on youth’s mental and physical health and specifically review social media’s influence on loneliness. Participants will be provided with guidance on what to look for that might indicate youth are feeling lonely and disconnected. Finally, actionable ideas will be provided to help foster connection for youth.This presentation specifically looks at the impact of loneliness on youth mental and physical health.This presentation will engage participants in small group discussions to share their own feedback and experiences regarding loneliness. Will brainstorm ideas to foster connection.
Speakers
avatar for Mary Rogers Kirby

Mary Rogers Kirby

Licensed Professional Counselor, Creating Solutions
Mary Rogers Kirby received her M.Ed. and Ed.S in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Virginia and is a Licensed Professional Counselor. Ms. Kirby has worked in both the public and private behvioral health field for 18 years. She primarily worked with adolescents providing... Read More →
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1205
  Type 1

9:40am EST

They're Not Freaking Out, They're Dysregulated: Understanding the Stress Response
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1610
This session will provide parents/guardians with an understanding of the stress response and how it relates to mental health. The presenters will provide a digestible overview of the “Fight or Flight” response using Dr. Tina Payne Bryson and Dr. Dan Siegel’s “Upstairs/Downstairs Brain” analogy. After providing a foundational understanding of the stress response, the participants will learn how to recognize the difference between a dysregulated and regulated state as well as learn practical strategies for promoting regulation in ourselves and our children. Participants will gain an understanding of how a chronic state of dysregulation can lead to mental health conditions such as anxiety and/or depression. Participants will be engaged through the use of a video as well as built-in opportunities to discuss and share with each other.
Speakers
avatar for Jodi Place

Jodi Place

Middle School Administrator
Jodi Place has served as a public educator for over 25 years. Prior to becoming a school administrator, she was a Nationally Board Certified English teacher. As an administrator, she has experience leading in traditional high school and middle school settings as well as alternative... Read More →
avatar for Alixandra Tate

Alixandra Tate

School Counseling Coordinator, Loudoun County Public Schools
Alix Tate currently serves as a School Counseling Services Coordinator for Loudoun County Public Schools. Prior to this role, she was an elementary school counselor, high school counselor, and Director of School Counseling. She earned a Master's Degree in Pre-K-12 School Counseling... Read More →
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1610
  Type 1

9:40am EST

What Every Parent Needs to Know About Raising a Resilient Teen
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1204
Coping with adversity and building resilience are essential to healthy child and adolescent development and the theme of this year’s conference promoting mental health and wellness. Resilience is also an important protective factor against teen risk, including suicide. A common myth is that being resilient is a trait people are born with, but research suggests that resilience can be taught and nurtured. Parents play an integral role in helping their teens build resilience. In this interactive presentation, participants will learn about how a supportive and stable relationship with a caregiver is the number one predictor that children will develop resilience and the connection between resilience, positive mental health, and reduction in suicide risk. Participants will learn about five research-based strategies to help their teens develop resilience connected to Positive Psychology, Mindfulness, Mindful Self-Compassion and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). The strategies that will be explored in the presentation including include modeling resilience yourself by engaging your own challenges and using coping skills, helping teens identify and activate their strengths, using positive and compassionate communication with your child, embracing imperfection and creating a safe space to make mistakes, and practicing self-care with your teen. Participants will be given opportunities to discuss and practice each strategy in a space with activities that involve personal reflection and small and large group sharing. Participants will leave with local and national resources to learn more about resilience and how to support their child’s resilience.
Speakers
avatar for Lacey Rosenbaum

Lacey Rosenbaum

Program Director, Ryan Bartel Foundation
Lacey Rosenbaum, PhD, MEd, is a psychologist with expertise in mental health literacy, resilience promotion, trauma-informed care, and suicide prevention. Dr. Rosenbaum is currently the program director for the Ryan Bartel Foundation, helping the foundation expand mental wellness... Read More →
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:40am - 10:30am EST
Room 1204
  Type 1

9:50am EST

Music for Mental Wellness, Mindfulness, and Emotional Expression: Practical Tools for Students, Parents, and Teachers LIMITED
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:50am - 10:40am EST
Room 1807
In this presentation, you will learn about improving mood, focus, and building rapport using music experiences and the iso principle. Join us in some of our own experientials that will demonstrate how this principle can work in real time, learn more about what populations this might benefit, what materials you might consider gathering, and start to plan how you can use this in your day-to-day life.
Speakers
avatar for Kalysta Bryant

Kalysta Bryant

Music Therapy Intern
Kalysta Bryant Bio: Kalysta Bryant is a medical music therapy intern at A place to Be. Kalysta graduated from Shenandoah University with a bachelor’s degree in music therapy in May of 2023. She is currently interning at Inova hospitals; working in oncological, neuro rehabilitative... Read More →
avatar for Jenna Ploski

Jenna Ploski

Board-Certified Music Therapist, A Place To Be
Jenna Ploski is a music therapist working at A Place To Be in Leesburg and Middleburg Virginia. Jenna graduated with a double major in music therapy and theatre arts with a vocal concentration and psychology minor from SUNY Fredonia. She completed her music therapy internship also... Read More →
Saturday January 25, 2025 9:50am - 10:40am EST
Room 1807
  Type 1
 
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