We live in a culture that values being busy. The stigma around mental health is improving, yet the willingness to prioritize mental health over extracurriculars, work, and life in general still hasn't caught up. The data on youth and college-aged mental health shows the importance of accessing mental health services proactively, yet we still see more youth end up in the hospitals year over year. We will talk about some of these trends and educate the audience on the various levels of care and how to create a culture that prioritizes mental health. SPEAKERS: Ann Matino- Ann Matino, LCSW, has worked in the behavioral health field for more than 30 years. She currently serves as the Clinical Director for Charlie Health. Her career experiences include direct care, Clinical Director and Executive Director positions in psychiatric hospitals, residential treatment facilities and intensive outpatient environments. Ann is passionate about providing excellent clinical care through supporting and training staff, creating efficient and effective systems, and utilizing evidence based compassionate treatment of clients and their families. Geanne Weaver-Hepler- Geanne is the Director of Clinical Outreach for Charlie Health. Having spent the last 10 years in alternative education settings and as a trained school counselor she has seen the intersection of academics and mental health for many students. She now helps educate the community and serves as a resource for families who historically have been underserved and who have had barriers to accessing quality, evidence-based treatment.

Speaker: Attorney Tresi Moore Weeks (The Weeks Law Firm PLLC) Attorney Tresi Weeks of the Weeks Law Firm discusses how parents can best plan for the future of your child with mental health needs. She covers the use of trusts to leave assets to your child in order to protect those assets and to provide wise management of the funds for your child’s care. If your child is receiving government benefits, Ms. Weeks speaks on special needs trusts and how they can avoid disqualifying your child from SSI/Medicaid. She also discusses powers of attorney, and planning for your care and your child’s care if you or your child become incapacitated for a period of time. Lastly, she introduces you to ABLE Accounts and when and how they can be best used.

NAMI North Texas January General Meeting