The Nevada Opioid Center of Excellence (NOCE)

Introduction to Resiliency-Informed Substance Use Prevention, a Fireside Chat with Cammie Wolf Rice CEO & Founder of CWC Alliance and Author of The Flight
2025-04-18 11:00 - 12:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Zoom Meeting
Learning Objectives:
By the end of the session, participants will be able to:

Outline the current state of the opioid crisis, and how it’s changed over time presenting unique challenges and opportunities.
Recognize the need for substance use prevention and resilience.
How a program with a mixed methods approach is changing how we view substance use prevention.
Demonstrate how stories of loss can mobilize communities to make an impact.

Presented by: Fabricia Prado, LCSW and Cammie Wolf Rice
Cammie Wolf Rice is a renowned author, activist, and speaker dedicated to ending the Opioid Epidemic. After the tragic loss of her son Christopher in 2016, Cammie turned her pain into purpose by founding CWC Alliance, making it her mission to raise awareness about the opioid epidemic and alternative pain management strategies. Cammie is the author of “The Flight: My Opioid Journey,” a memoir detailing her personal and transformative journey through the opioid crisis, a testament to her resilience and commitment to advocacy.
Fabricia Prado is a trilingual (Portuguese/Spanish/English) Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Georgia with a master’s degree in social work from Kennesaw State University and bachelor’s and master’s degrees in psychology from Pontifical Catholic University of Goiás, Brazil. A Certified Child and Adolescent Trauma Professional (CATP) and ACE Interface Master Trainer through the National Hispanic and Latino PTTC, Fabricia works to raise awareness of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and their public health impact using evidence-based strategies to build resilience. She has received intensive training in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, and other trauma-sensitive approaches.
Continuing Education Units: 1.5 CEUs
This training is approved for continuing education by the boards listed here.
Funding for this activity was made possible in whole or in part by the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Director’s Office through the Fund for a Resilient Nevada, established in Nevada Revised Statutes 433.712 through 433.744. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in our courses are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of the Nevada Opioid Center of Excellence or its funders.

Project ECHO Pain Management
2025-04-16 08:00 - 09:00, 2025-04-02 08:00 - 09:00, 2025-03-19 08:00 - 09:00, 2025-03-05 08:00 - 09:00, 2025-02-19 08:00 - 09:00, 2025-02-05 08:00 - 09:00 | Zoom Meeting
First and Third Wednesdays of each month | 8–9 am

This clinic is a forum guided by a Pain Management Physician, a Pain Management Psychologist, and a Mental Health and Addiction Specialist. The clinic offers an opportunity to present and discuss patients in your clinic with pain. Learn how to assess and manage your patients with pain through a variety of non-pharmacologic and pharmacologic modalities. Learn best practice approaches to minimizing the risk of addiction.
Register Now: https://unrmed.formstack.com/forms/echo_sign_in?&title=Pain%20Management
Pain Management Case Review Form: https://redcap.unr.edu/redcap/surveys/?s=RE4NYNCJHN
Presented by:

Michael J. Lewandowski, Ph.D. Dr. Lewandowski is a licensed psychologist in the State of Nevada, President of Pain Assessment Resources, and Director of Behavioral Medicine Consultants Inc. He has extensive training and experience in the application of psychological principles to problems in medicine, specifically chronic pain. His 31-years of clinical experience include his internship at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Reno Nevada and work in two CARF accredited pain management programs in northern Nevada. His pain management practice covers both Reno and Carson City.
Denis Patterson, D.O. Dr. Patterson is Board Certified in Pain Medicine as well as Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. He is a specialist in common and complex neurological disorders and musculoskeletal issues and is an expert in electrodiagnostics (nerve conduction studies and electromyography) which aid in the diagnosis of nerve disorders. He has been seeing and treating patients at Nevada Advanced Pain Specialists, an industry leader in pain management.
Paul Snyder, MA, LCADC, LCPC. Paul specializes in treating mental health and substance use disorders. Paul has worked in the Hazelden-Betty Ford Health Care Professional Track as well as Residential, Intensive Outpatient and Outpatient treatment. Paul created and supervised a woman’s treatment program, writes a monthly health care column with a readership of 65,000, is a speaker/educator throughout the state of Nevada, has a local practice and is the primary counselor for substance use disorders for the Three Nation’s Tribal Health Center.

Disclosures: https://med.unr.edu/echo/disclosures
CME Evaluation Form: https://unrmed.formstack.com/forms/echo_evaluation?&title=Pain%20Management
To request copies of didactics and reference materials, please contact: ProjectECHO@med.unr.edu

Continuing Medical Education (CME) Accreditation
The University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians.
The University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine designates this Live Activity for a maximum of 1.00 AMA PRA Category 1 CreditsTM. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
The University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine approves this program for 1.0 hour of nursing continuing education credit. Nevada State Board of Nursing provider number 120894-1.
The University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine is a provider of continuing education credit through the Nevada State Board of Pharmacy. This program is approved for 1 hours of continuing education credit for pharmacists.

SBIRT for Health Professionals ECHO Series
2025-04-14 12:00 - 13:00 | Zoom Meeting
Project ECHO Nevada invites you to their upcoming 6 session free series entitled SBIRT For Health Professionals ECHO Series. This will be a series of 60-minute-long teleconference sessions in which providers will have the opportunity to speak with a multidisciplinary team of subject matter experts in the field of SBIRT (Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment health). This ECHO will provide community health professionals with the training and support they need to manage substance use issues within women’s health settings using an SBIRT model. This program will include an expert specialist team and interdisciplinary clinicians and other health professionals. The series will include six weekly tele-ECHO clinics that include a didactic presentation, combined with patient case presentations and mentoring.
If interested, please Register Here to receive more information.
Series Schedule :

April 14th 2025 : Orientation and Introduction
April 21st 2025 : Screening
April 28th 2025 : Brief Intervention and Motivational Interviewing
May 5th 2025 : Referral to Treatment
May 12th 2025 : Medication Assisted Treatment
May 19th 2025 : Implementation planning

If interested, please register here to receive more information, and find additional links below including a printable flyer.

Register for ECHO Here
SBIRT For Health Professionals 2025 Flyer

SBIRT For Health Professionals ECHO Webpage
SBIRT References and Resources Folder

* Registrations for this program will be completed through the iECHO platform which requires an account. Upon selecting the registration link you will be directed to the iECHO webpage to setup your account or login with an existing account. When setting up your account for the first time, please ensure you complete the information fields as accurately as possible, including your name, email, credential, organization name, and organization address.
*Please note that while attendance at each session is not mandatory, our ECHO team strongly recommends that you attend the majority of sessions in order to maximize your learning and collaboration during the series. If you are unable to attend any session(s) we still encourage you to join us in the next session whenever possible*
*Dates subject to change
This is a free program with CME/CEU credit available.
The University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians.
The University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.00 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
The University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine approves this program for 1.00 hour of nursing continuing education credit. Nevada State Board of Nursing provider number 120894‐1.
The University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine is a provider of continuing education credit through the Nevada State Board of Pharmacy. This program is approved for 1.00 hours of continuing education credit for pharmacists.
This program provides 1 CME credit towards the Nevada State Board of Medical Examiners’ requirement for 2 hours of training related to screening, brief intervention & referral to treatment (SBIRT).

Nevada Black Maternal Health Week - Maternal Wellness Walk & Kinship Cookout
2025-04-12 08:30 - 13:00 | Aliante Nature Discovery Park, 2627 Nature Park Drive, North Las Vegas, NV, 89084, United States
Black Maternal Health Week is a national initiative to build awareness, activism, and community around Black maternal health in the US. Black women, regardless of social or economic status, are 2 to 3 times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white, Hispanic, or Asian/Pacific Islander women. In Nevada, overdose is a leading cause of these deaths. Stigma, limited access to care, and systemic inequities put Black women at higher risk. Nevada Black Maternal Health Week is a chance to raise awareness, share resources, and support families.
Join us this Saturday, April 12, 2025, at Aliante Nature Discovery Park for a day of movement, food, and fellowship. The Maternal Wellness Walk will promote advocacy and community care, followed by the 2nd Annual Kinship Cookout featuring vendors, entertainment, and resources for Black maternal health and healing.
Register and learn more at https://bit.ly/NVBMHW25

The Blooming Bistro Grand Opening and Overdose Education Event
2025-04-10 14:00 - 18:00 | The Blooming Bistro, 860 S. Rancho Dr. #6, Las Vegas, NV, 89106, United States
Join NOCE at The Blooming Bistro Grand Opening and Overdose Education Event
The Nevada Opioid Center of Excellence (NOCE) is honored to participate in the grand opening of The Blooming Bistro on Thursday, April 10, 2025, in Las Vegas.
The Blooming Bistro (TBB) is more than a restaurant—it’s a wellness and workforce training hub for disconnected youth in Las Vegas. Through hands-on culinary training, mental health education, and life skills development, TBB empowers young people facing challenges such as foster care involvement, substance use recovery, or housing instability. Supported by a team of hospitality professionals and community partners, TBB helps participants build sustainable futures grounded in connection, purpose, and healing.
This event marks the launch of a new, youth-focused wellness and workforce training restaurant that provides a safe, supportive space for learning, growth, and connection. Over 15 local organizations and community partners will be present, offering resources and support to attendees.
Event Details:Location: The Blooming Bistro, 860 S. Rancho Dr. #6, Las Vegas, NV 89106Time: 2:00 – 6:00 p.m.
NOCE Overdose Education Session: 4:30 – 5:30 p.m.
NOCE will be offering an Overdose Education session focused on recognizing and responding to opioid overdoses. Free naloxone will be available for attendees. This is a great opportunity to learn how to respond in an emergency and connect with others working to improve community health and safety.
To learn more about NOCE and the services we offer, visit nvopioidcoe.org.To learn more about The Blooming Bistro, visit thebloomingbistro.com
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Privacy and Confidentiality in Opioid Treatment
2025-04-08 14:00 - 16:00 | Zoom Webinar
This training will provide a comprehensive review of privacy and confidentiality laws relevant to opioid treatment providers. The session will cover federal and Nevada regulations, including HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2, with a focus on practical applications and compliance challenges. The presentation will also explore emerging issues related to artificial intelligence and telehealth in opioid treatment settings. Participants will gain a clear understanding of confidentiality requirements, reporting obligations, and best practices for protecting patient privacy.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of this presentation participants will be able to:

Describe the key confidentiality requirements under HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2 and how they apply to opioid treatment providers.
Identify the necessary elements of a valid consent for the release of patient information and the appropriate response to subpoenas.
Explain the unique privacy considerations for opioid treatment programs and how they differ from general behavioral health settings.
Evaluate the role of artificial intelligence in behavioral health and its potential impact on patient privacy and confidentiality.
Recognize telehealth-specific confidentiality concerns and apply best practices to maintain compliance in remote treatment settings.
Summarize the legal and ethical requirements related to mandatory reporting of child and elder abuse and the duty to warn.

Presented by: Mark Disselkoen, MSSW, LCSW, LCADC
Mark Disselkoen, is Senior Project Manager at the Center for the Application of Substance Abuse Technologies (CASAT) at the University of Nevada, Reno since 2003. He is an LCSW and LCADC and has worked in the field of substance use and mental health treatment for over 30 years. He oversees the CCBHC project and certification and training/technical assistance contracts in Nevada and provides numerous trainings in the field of substance use and mental health treatment.
Continuing Education Units: 2 CEUs
This training is approved for continuing education by the boards listed here.
This training is also approved by the Nevada Certification Board for the following certifications:

Peer Support Specialist (PRSS) and Peer Support Specialist Supervisor (PRSS-S)

Funding for this activity was made possible in whole or in part by the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Director’s Office through the Fund for a Resilient Nevada, established in Nevada Revised Statutes 433.712 through 433.744. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in our courses are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of the Nevada Opioid Center of Excellence or its funders.

Nevada Public Health Association Annual Conference
2025-04-08 08:00 - 2025-04-09 17:00 | Hampton Inn Tropicana, 4975 Dean Martin Dr., Las Vegas, NV, 89118, United States
The statewide Nevada Public Health Association (NPHA) annual conference provides an opportunity for Nevada’s public health professionals to gather together to discuss relevant public health issues, as well as a chance to network, meet, and stay connected with other professionals in Nevada. Continuing education credits are also available for several public health disciplines.
Who Should Attend

Public health professionals and students, including healthcare providers, educators, epidemiologists, other researchers, administrators, and program staff representing all sectors of the public health system, including government, academia, non-profit organizations, and private businesses.

Mood Music Management: 6 Empowerment Habits
2025-03-29 08:30 - 17:00, 2025-03-22 08:30 - 17:00 | Virtual Event
Join the Coeur d’Alene Symphony Orchestra and Music4Life® for a free workshop exploring how music can support emotional well-being and mental health. Led by nationally recognized music therapist, TEDx speaker, and author Judith Pinkerton, this interactive session introduces 30 therapeutic music-based activities designed to help participants navigate stress, trauma, and tough conversations.
This workshop explores how music listening habits impact the brain and behavior—especially in the context of mental health, substance use, and suicide prevention. Participants will use Judith’s Key2MEE music app and receive a manual and card set based on her curriculum, 6 Habits of Music Medicine for Highly Empowered People.
Key questions explored:

How do six goals transform habits?
What music contributes to suicide?
Where does mood music work the best?
When does music influence the body?
Why is an Emotional Profile essential?

Date & Time:Saturdays from 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Choose one date)

March 22
March 29
April 26
May 3

Format:
In-person or virtual
In-person location: Canopy Village Family Support Center1350 West Hanley Ave, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83815
Additional Info:

FREE to attend
CEU approved
Lunch provided for in-person attendees

Register:https://cdasymphony.org/Music4Life
Hosted by:Music4Life® in partnership with the Coeur d’Alene Symphony Orchestra

Listening Session: Recovery Continuum & Recurrence Prevention Strategies
2025-03-18 11:00 - 12:30 | Zoom Webinar
This Listening Session addresses the stigma surrounding Substance Use Disorder (SUD), and its impact on People Who Use Drugs (PWUD) communities receiving treatment, and exploring ways of fostering recovery-friendly spaces in the workplace and community.
Learning Objectives:

Attendees will explore strategies for challenging and reducing stigma to create an environment that encourages individuals to seek help and engage in recovery.
Attendees will learn about the importance of creating recovery-friendly spaces in both the workplace and the community, understanding how these spaces can contribute to sustained recovery and recurrence prevention.
Participants will acquire knowledge of evidence-based recurrence prevention strategies effective for today’s PWUD communities.

Moderator:
Bianca D. McCall, LMFT is a retired professional women’s basketball player. She is an international TED Speaker, and renowned mental health researcher and expert. Bianca is a licensed clinical therapist, with 25 years in Behavioral Health, and 12 years as a Healthcare CEO. In recent years, she has grown significantly in the digital health space, and created a first-of-its-kind social-emotional platform, designed to improve human health span.
For more than a decade, her work and research has been dedicated to psychological (mental) injury prevention and the discovery of innovations addressing existential isolation. Bianca is passionate about leading projects which promote ongoing research in mental injury prevention, integration of technologies, data analytics, and the discovery of culturally and linguistically responsive crisis interventions. Bianca represents Nevada, on national committees and namely the Suicide Prevention Resource Center; designated by SAMHSA, and Steering Committee for the U.S. Department of Public Health and is a contributor to the National Strategies for Suicide Prevention in areas of Clinical Education, Provider Standards, and Technology. Bianca is a subject matter expert, a curriculum developer, and instructor in higher education with the Centers for the Application of Substance Abuse Technologies (CASAT), Region 9, housed at the University of Nevada, Reno.
Panelists:

Cheryl Nixon, PRSS, Northern Nevada Hopes
Cheryl Nixon has been a Peer Support Specialist since 2018. Cheryl is in recovery and loves to give back to the recovery community. During this time Cheryl has worked alongside community partners like Washoe County, Crossroads Women and Children program. Cheryl became certified by the state of Nevada as a Certified Peer Support Specialist. #PRSS-5063. In 2022 Cheryl accepted a position with Northern Nevada HOPES, Cheryl has made strides in her career and is now the Lead Peer Support Specialist. Cheryl works directly with the Medicated Assisted Treatment team and other Peers across Hopes agencies. Cheryl has been recognized for her inspirations work with her Northern Nevada Hopes as a key note speaker during their annual HOPES’s conference. Cheryl also received the “Inspire” award by the Nevada Dry Society Gala. Cheryl has been a key component in making community connection, reducing stigma for client in recovery and leading by example.

Daniel Fred, M.S, PRSS-S
Daniel has been in long-term recovery since July of 2002, and has been married to his amazing wife, Kristy, since 2004. Together, they’re raising three incredible daughters who keep life exciting. Daniel is a dedicated advocate, sharing hope wherever he can. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Texas Tech University, where he was a member of the collegiate recovery program, and fell in love with the world of recovery support. That passion led him to the University of Nevada, Reno, where he earned his master’s degree in Human Development Family Sciences, specializing in Addiction Treatment Services. Daniel helped build and now directs Nevada’s Recovery and Prevention program (NRAP) at the University of Nevada, Reno, where he also teaches addiction treatment studies. He’s been recognized as Faculty of the Year (twice!) for his commitment to students and recovery education. Previously, he served as Director of Recovery and National Outreach at Transforming Youth Recovery, advocating for recovery nationwide. He’s served on multiple local and national advisory boards, working to expand recovery resources and break the stigma of addiction. Whether in a classroom, on a board, or just in conversation, Daniel’s goal is simple—help more people see that recovery is possible.

Rhonda Fairchild, PRSS-S, Housing Director, TiNHIH
Rhonda Fairchild first became a member of the Las Vegas recovery community 31 years ago after being introduced to a 12 step program during her stay at a local rehabilitation facility. With the support of her family and a newfound fellowship she returned to her career as a cocktail server at one of Las Vegas’s most beloved downtown casino hotels. In 2009 she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in geology from the University of Nevada Las Vegas. Upon graduation, she turned her attention to substitute teaching. She served as a life skills instructor at the Clark County School District’s Mission High School, the nation’s first all public school for young people with substance use disorders. She is honored to be a part of this historic public school project where she can teach and mentor children who are eager to make positive changes in their lives. She is also the Housing Director of the TiNHIH sober living and treatment combined program, & APG (Alternative Peer Group) a recovery community center for teens and young adults. Fairchild has lived in Las Vegas since 1974. She is the mother of six adult children and grandmother to twelve. She and her life partner, Paul, enjoy tandem bicycling and travelling to ghost towns and small communities near Las Vegas.

Teresa Sands, PRSS, Admissions Coordinator, Virtue Recovery Center
Teresa Sands is a devoted advocate, educator, and leader dedicated to advancing addiction recovery and promoting harm reduction initiatives. Born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada, Teresa deeply connects to her community and brings a unique perspective to her work. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Services with a focus on addiction studies from Indiana Tech. She is pursuing her Master of Social Work at the University of Nevada, Reno. Additionally, she is a Certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist, blending professional expertise with lived experience to empower individuals affected by Substance Use Disorder (SUD) while keeping people who use drugs safe and ensuring they have a seat at the table. As an Admissions Coordinator, she helps individuals and families overcome the challenges of accessing treatment, guiding clients through the complexities of care, and providing them with the resources and support they need to start their recovery journey. With 18 years of experience in show business, Teresa also brings a unique empathy and understanding to her advocacy for sex workers and survivors of sex trafficking. Her background has fueled her passion for human rights and commitment to creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels respected and supported. Teresa is a proud member of the Recovery Advocacy Project Nevada, where she actively advocates for policies that support all individuals, including people who use drugs. She is also the Nevada Chapter Lead for Young People in Recovery, where she collaborates with amazing community partners to organize harm-reduction workshops, conduct overdose prevention training, facilitate Narcan distribution events, and create pro-social and safe spaces for the LGBTQIA community. Through these efforts, she emphasizes the importance of educating communities about multiple pathways to recovery and ensuring equitable access to care for underserved populations.

Continuing Education Units: 1.5 CEUs
This training is approved for continuing education by the boards listed here.
This training is also approved by the Nevada Certification Board for the following certifications:

Peer Support Specialist (PRSS) and Peer Support Specialist Supervisor (PRSS-S)

Funding for this activity was made possible in whole or in part by the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Director’s Office through the Fund for a Resilient Nevada, established in Nevada Revised Statutes 433.712 through 433.744. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in our courses are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of the Nevada Opioid Center of Excellence or its funders.

Hidden in Plain Sight
2025-03-18 09:00 - 2025-03-19 15:30 | Mineral County Fire Department, 418 Mineral Rd., Hawthorne, NV, 89415, United States
About the Event
Join Community Chest Inc. and Nye Communities Coalition (NyECC) for an exciting event where you can learn about youth substance use. Hidden in Plain Sight is a unique experience that will challenge your perception and observation skills. Get ready to uncover secrets in a simulated teen bedroom setting. Is what you find in your teens bedroom what you think it is? Don’t miss out on this on this eye opening opportunity.. See you there!
About the Drug Paraphernalia Education Trailer (DPET)
The Drug Paraphernalia Education Trailer (DPET) is an initiative by the Youth Advocates Changing Communities (YACC) team, part of the NyE Communities Coalition (NyECC). This mobile educational tool is designed to help parents and community members identify and understand drug paraphernalia that might be hidden in plain sight within a teenager’s room. By touring the DPET, individuals can learn to recognize signs of potential substance misuse, enabling them to address issues proactively.

The Intersection of Gambling and Opioid Use Disorder
2025-03-13 09:00 - 11:00 | Zoom Webinar
Approximately 96% of persons with an identified Gambling Disorder have another co-occurring behavioral health condition, and it is often the co-occurring condition that brings the person with problems related to gambling into treatment. Evidence further suggests that only those with the most severe gambling disorder symptoms will ever seek treatment. Gambling Disorder is often a hidden addiction when it is not addressed in combination with other behavioral therapies. This training will explore evidenced based gambling screening tools that can be implemented into treatment to help identify potential harms to ongoing recovery from opioid use disorders.
Learning Objectives:

Increase awareness of the potential harms related to gambling, the impact on the family and importance of financial wellness.
Understand the connection between gambling and other substance use and addictive disorders and how problematic gambling may affect treatment outcomes
Identify evidenced based gambling screening tools, ways to integrate gambling conversations into your practice, and resources to support recovery.

Presented by: Kristen Beall, LCSW-C, ICGC-II, CAC-AD, Clinical Manager, Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling, University of Maryland School of Medicine
Kristen provides consultation and practical assistance to organizations and private practitioners integrating evidenced based gambling screening, ongoing assessment, and gambling related treatment into their current practice. With 20+ years of clinical experience, Kristen is dedicated to connecting persons in the community and professionals to local gambling resources to aid in those seeking recovery and wellness. She is dedicated to helping professionals throughout Maryland understand the impact gambling can have on co-occurring disorders, medical conditions, and psychosocial factors. Kristen has a passion for working with persons affected by gambling related harms and providing education to other health professionals to increase awareness of this often, hidden addiction.
Continuing Education Units: 2 CEUs
This training is approved for continuing education by the boards listed here.
Funding for this activity was made possible in whole or in part by the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Director’s Office through the Fund for a Resilient Nevada, established in Nevada Revised Statutes 433.712 through 433.744. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in our courses are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of the Nevada Opioid Center of Excellence or its funders.

Inter Tribal Council of Arizona, Inc. Tribal Epidemiology Center - Substance Use & Overdose Prevention Public Health Working Group
2025-03-11 - 2025-03-13 | Element Reno Experience District, 2030 Element Ln, Reno, NV, 89502, United States
Join the Inter Tribal Council of Arizona, Inc. Tribal Epidemiology Center Public Health Working Group on March 12, 2025, in Reno, NV, for a vital discussion on Substance Use & Overdose Prevention.
This quarterly gathering brings together the Tribal public health workforce from Arizona, Nevada, and Utah to collaborate, share insights, and strengthen public health strategies.
Hosted at the Element Reno Experience District, the event offers optional half-day workshops on March 11 (Data Collection) and March 13 (Program Evaluation).
Register by February 24, 2025 to secure your spot!
A room block is available at the Element, with reservations due by February 11. For travel reimbursement details, contact Anne van Duijnhoven, MS, MPH, TECPHI Program Manager, at Anne.vanDuijnhoven@itcaonline.com.
Register now: https://bit.ly/428bMyU.

International Women’s Day 2025 in Northern Nevada
2025-03-08 | Sparks Marina
Join the Nevada Opioid Center of Excellence at International Women’s Day 2025
The Nevada Opioid Center of Excellence is honored to participate in International Women’s Day 2025, a community-wide event hosted by Nevada Women’s Fund and supported by over 100 participating organizations. This day-long celebration highlights the achievements of women, promotes gender equality, and inspires collective action for a brighter future.

Event Highlights

Accelerate Equality Walk & Run – Kick off the day at 8:00 AM at Sparks Marina and join hundreds of participants walking or running in support of women’s empowerment.

Community Vendor Fair – Connect with local organizations providing resources and support for women and families.

Light the Arch Purple – Join us in downtown Reno from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM as the Reno Arch lights up in purple, a powerful symbol of unity and progress.

Why This Matters

International Women’s Day is about celebrating progress while continuing to push for change. As one of over 100 participating organizations, the Nevada Opioid Center of Excellence is committed to supporting the health and well-being of our community by ensuring access to critical resources.

Be part of this inspiring movement. Explore the full schedule of events and participating organizations at www.nevadawomensfund.org/international-women-s-day.

Together, we can elevate, empower, and accelerate action.

Mae Orvis Health Care Symposium - The ABCs of Hot Topics in Healthcare
2025-03-04 08:00 - 14:00 | Zoom Meeting
Register now for the symposium on March 4th, 2025!
Your registration included access to the live virtual presentations and on-demand recordings after the event.
CEUs will be provided!

Topics Include

AI in Healthcare
Best Practice in Weight Loss Management
Cases in Emerging Infectious Disease
DEA Updates and Safe Opioid Prescribing
Emergency Medicine and Intersection of Politics

The Mission of our Symposium

The vision of the Mae Orvis Health Care Symposium is to facilitate and encourage the examination of current evidence based practice ideas and concepts relevant to the evolving interdisciplinary healthcare team. We seek to explore objectives to provide best outcomes and best practice modalities to our vast patient populations in the Nevada health care community and beyond.
Founded in 1956, the Orvis School of Nursing (OSN), at the University of Nevada, is the oldest school of nursing in the state and is dedicated to serving people of Nevada through quality teaching, research and service.

Fentanyl and Other Opioids in our Community: An Informational Video Presentation for Families and Students
2025-02-26 18:00 - 19:00 | Spanish Springs High School Theater, 1065 Eagle Canyon Dr., Sparks, 89441, United States
Sparks City Attorney Wes Duncan, in collaboration with Wake Up Nevada, Quest Counseling and Consulting, Inc., Join Together Northern Nevada, and the Washoe County School District, is hosting an informational video presentation on the impact of fentanyl overdoses in the community. The presentation will cover the risks associated with fentanyl misuse, provide resources and guidance for families and students, and raise awareness about the opioid epidemic. The event will take place on Wednesday, February 26, at 6:00 p.m. in the Spanish Springs High School Theater. The public is invited to attend.

Rural Nevada Public Health Summit
2025-02-25 08:30 - 16:00 | Carson Valley Inn Casino, 1627 U.S. Highway 395, North Minden, NV, 89423, United States
Join the Nevada Public Health Institute (NPHI) for a day filled with engaging discussions, informative presentations, and networking opportunities. This event brings together public health professionals, policymakers, and community members to address challenges and explore solutions to improve rural health. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to connect with experts in the field and contribute to the future of rural health in Nevada. Mark your calendars and get ready for a meaningful and inspiring experience!
Target Audience: Public health professionals; Community Members; Students
Duration: 1 day

Behavioral Health Day at the Nevada Legislature
2025-02-25 08:00 - 18:00 | Nevada State Capitol, 101 N. Carson St., Carson City, NV, United States
Join the Behavioral Health Association of Nevada (BHAN) for Behavioral Health Day at the Legislature on February 25, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM at the Nevada State Capitol (101 N. Carson St., Carson City, NV).
This event provides an opportunity for networking and advocacy, including meetings with legislators to discuss critical behavioral health topics and the mission of BHAN—promoting collaboration, prevention, accessibility, and sustainability of behavioral health treatment in Nevada.
An evening reception is also planned, with details to be announced soon.
For more information, contact steve@bhanv.org or ncarano@bhanv.org.
Download PDF Flyer: BH Day at Legislature Flyer

Navigating Social Identity and Intersectionality in Rural Healthcare
2025-02-12 11:00 - 12:00 | Zoom Webinar
Building Culturally Competent Care
Date: February 12th, 2025
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Platform: Zoom
Presented by: Jay Cafferata, MA, CDE
Topics of Discussion:

Define social identity & intersectionality to explain its relevance to healthcare.
Identify the unique healthcare needs of individuals from diverse backgrounds in rural communities.
Develop strategies for building culturally humble relationships with patients.
Recognize and address implicit bias and systemic barriers.

Contact Information:
639 Isbell Road, Suite 290, Reno, NV 89509
highsierraahec@gmail.com
(775) 507-4022

Culturally Responsive Approaches to Addressing Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders in Nevada’s Tribal Nations: A Comprehensive Learning Series
2025-02-11 11:00 - 13:00 | Zoom Meeting
Thank you for you interest in attending “Culturally Responsive Approaches to Addressing Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders in Nevada’s Tribal Nations: A Comprehensive Learning Series.” At the time the course has reached it’s capacity and registration is now closed. Please email noce@casat.org to be added to the wait list and we will contact you should a spot become available.

6 Week Virtual Learning Series:

February 11, 2025
February 25, 2025
March 11, 2025
March 25, 2025
April 8, 2025
April 22, 2025

Times: 11:00 am to 1:00 pm Pacific Time
Series Description:
This comprehensive 12-hour, 6-session virtual training series is designed for professionals working with Nevada’s tribal nations to develop culturally responsive strategies for addressing mental health and substance use challenges, including opioid use disorder. Participants will explore Native American history, health policies, and culturally tailored interventions to enhance their ability to engage and support Native American communities effectively.
Through interactive discussions, practical applications, and a culminating implementation plan, attendees will leave equipped with culturally responsive skills and knowledge essential for meaningful community engagement and impact. Completion of the series is required to receive a certificate and continuing education units.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this series, participants will be able to:

Describe the impact of Native American history and historical trauma on current mental health and substance use issues.
Explain Native American health policies, including the interplay between tribal, state, and federal systems.
Identify culturally responsive concepts, terminology, and theoretical frameworks relevant to Native American cultural approaches.
Apply culturally appropriate protocols in community-based engagement with tribal communities.
Utilize culturally responsive interventions for addressing mental health, substance use disorders, and suicide prevention within Native American communities.
Develop and discuss an actionable plan for implementing culturally responsive practices in collaboration with other cohort participants.

This series offers a unique opportunity to deepen cultural understanding and enhance professional practice in partnership with Native American communities across Nevada.
Participant Commitment & Expectations:

Commit to 6-weeks of training for 2 hours weekly on scheduled series days/times including weekly self-study learning activities.
Access to appropriate technology to utilize Zoom videoconferencing platform (i.e., an internet connection, webcam, laptop/tablet, speakers and microphone) as well as active participant engagement to gain/improve skills are required.
Participants must attend every week in order to earn the full 12 Continuing Education Units (CEUs). No partial credit will be issued.

Presented by: Dr. Crystal Lee | Diné (Navajo)

Dr. Crystal Lee was born and raised on the Navajo Nation. Her tribal clans are Tachii’nii (Red Running into the Water), Tabaaha (Water’s Edge), Tsenjikini (Cliff Dwellers), and Kin I ichii’nii (Red House). She completed her undergraduate degree(s) at Arizona St. University; MPH and PhD in Public Health degree(s) at University of Las Vegas-Nevada; MLS in Indigenous Peoples Law at University of Oklahoma, College of Law; Predoctoral Fellowship at Johns Hopkins University, Bloomberg School of Public Health; and her Postdoctoral Fellowship at University of California-Los Angeles, David Geffen School of Medicine.
Currently she is faculty, Assistant Professor, at University of New Mexico, College of Population Health. In addition, she was an Indigenous HIV/AIDS Research Training Fellow at the University of Washington, Indigenous Wellness Research Institute and a Seminar Instructor at Harvard University Kennedy School. She conducts infectious disease biomedical prevention research with a focus on Native American health and examines Indigenous health policies at a tribal, state-tribal coordination, national, and international level. She is Founder/CEO of United Natives, a national non-profit organization that serves Indian Country on multiple initiatives (www.unitednatives.org) that focuses on delivering free mental tele-health services. United Natives was featured as one of USA Today’s top non-profits addressing COVID-19 in Indian Country nationwide. United Natives has prestigious partnerships with: L’Oreal, NFL Alumni Association, NBA Alumni Association, NASCAR, Fiesta Bowl, and the Boston Red Sox. Also, she is Founder/CEO of Dr. b Collections, a Native American fashion line (www.drbcollections.com), and recognized as the first Native American professional sports team owner who owned two men’s professional basketball teams in Mexico.

She serves on the United Nations (UN) North American Indigenous Caucus, UN Global Indigenous Women’s Caucus, and L’Oreal USA Board for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. She served as the Vice Chair for the Clark County NV, Democratic Party Native Caucus, Advisor for the Nevada Office of Minority Health and Equity, and on U.S. Congressman Steven Horsford’s Equity Cabinet Committee. She served as a Tribal Health Advisor to the Obama Administration and was honored by President Bill Clinton for her work with Indigenous communities at the Clinton Global Initiative. She was the 12th class of the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development’s 40-under-40 award.

Continuing Education: 12 CEUs
This training is approved for continuing education by the Nevada Certification Board for Peer Support Specialists (PRSS and PRSS-S), Community Heath Workers (CHW), and Prevention Specialist (PS) as well as by the boards listed here.

Cost: FREE
Application: Space is limited. Please complete the application form by January 20, 2025 to express your interest in attending. Approved participants will be notified by January 24, 2025 and sent additional information regarding accessing the virtual learning activity. Please note that completing this application does not guarantee automatic registration. Applications will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis, and participants will be selected based on specific eligibility criteria.
Funding & Disclaimer
Funding for this activity was made possible in whole or in part by the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Director’s Office through the Fund for a Resilient Nevada, established in Nevada Revised Statutes 433.712 through 433.744. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in our courses are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of the Nevada Opioid Center of Excellence or its funders.

L.I.M.A. Community Resource Sharing Meeting
2025-02-07 11:00 - 16:00 | University of Nevada, Reno Extension, 2280 N McDaniel St., North Las Vegas, NV, 89030, United States
Join us for the L.I.M.A. Community Resource Sharing Meeting, an opportunity for community members, service providers, and organizations to connect, collaborate, and share resources. Each attendee will have 90 seconds to introduce their resources and services, fostering a network of support for individuals in need.
This event is co-hosted by the University of Nevada, Reno Extension’s Hope for Family Resilience Program and is open to all who want to make a difference in their community.
About L.I.M.A.
Law Enforcement Intervention for Mental Health & Addiction (L.I.M.A.) provides a voluntary pathway to recovery and support for individuals facing substance abuse, mental health issues, and homelessness. By working together, we can bridge the gap between law enforcement, service providers, and the community.
Important Notes
Parking is limited – Please carpool if possible.
Scan the QR code (below) or click here for more details.
For More Information:
Angel Lash – (702) 671-3866; lasha@clarkcountycourts.us
Hope Team – HopeTeam@unr.edu

Preventing ACEs and Their Associated Harms: Moving Upstream to Build Resilience
2025-02-06 09:00 - 10:30 | Zoom Webinar
The association between chronic exposure to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and opioid use disorder (OUD) across the lifespan is well-established, but ACEs are preventable. This webinar will explore the evidence supporting upstream strategies that can prevent ACEs from happening in the first place as well as positive childhood experiences (PCEs) that can mitigate the harms of ACEs. Recent data sources that can be used to monitor ACEs and PCEs at the state-level to guide prevention and evaluation activities will also be explored.
Webinar Objectives
By the end of this webinar, participants will be able to:

Explain the influence of ACEs and PCEs on substance use risk behaviors and OUD using a lifecourse perspective;
Describe primary prevention strategies that can prevent ACEs;
Describe how PCEs can buffer the impact of ACEs on behavioral health outcomes;
Identify state-level data sources that can be used to monitor ACEs and PCEs.

Presenters:
Amanda Haboush-Deloye, PhD, Executive Director, NICRP, Co-Director of Research, NMHEC, Associate Professor, SPH Social and Behavioral Health
Amanda Haboush-Deloye earned her Ph.D. in experimental psychology and her Master of Arts in clinical psychology from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Amanda’s research background is on mental health in adolescent, adult, and older adult populations. She also has a particular interest in improving research methods to be more culturally competent. As a researcher at NICRP, she has designed and implemented many research projects regarding children’s physical health, mental health, and education, as well as children’s advocacy initiatives such as Every Child Matters in Nevada and Prevent Child Abuse Nevada. Being a Las Vegas native, Amanda aims to remain in Nevada and work with NICRP to create a healthy community where families and children are a priority.

Kristen Clements-Nolle, PhD, MPH, Professor and Graduate Director, Epidemiology, School of Public Health
Kristin Clements-Nolle received her MPH in Behavioral Sciences and Ph.D in Epidemiology, both from the University of California, Berkeley. Kristen is a nationally recognized adolescent health researcher and has published extensively on the impact of ACE exposure on health outcomes across the lifespan. She also investigates social, community, and family factors that can prevent ACE exposure and/or mitigate the impact on behavioral health outcomes. Kristen is currently a Professor of Epidemiology at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Public Health and the principal investigator for a five year grant funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that will focus on preventing ACEs and promoting positive childhood experiences in Nevada.

Continuing Education Units: 1.5 CEUs
This training is approved for continuing education by the Nevada Certification Board for Community Health Workers (CHW) and Prevention Specialists (PS) as well as by the boards listed here.

Funding for this activity was made possible in whole or in part by the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Director’s Office through the Fund for a Resilient Nevada, established in Nevada Revised Statutes 433.712 through 433.744. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in our courses are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of the Nevada Opioid Center of Excellence or its funders.

Reading, Understanding, and Using State Budgets for Advocacy
2025-01-31 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual Event
This webinar series aims to give attendees a current snapshot of Nevada’s behavioral health infrastructure, plans, funding, and resources in anticipation of the 2025 session of the Nevada Legislature.

Join the Nevada Public Health Association, the Behavioral Health Association of Nevada, and the Regional Behavioral Health Policy Boards on Thursday, January 31, 2025 during the lunch hour for this edition of the Nevada Behavioral Health Pre-Legislative Session Webinar Series.
Elyse Monroy, Government Affairs Manager for Cartwright NV Government Affairs, in an engaging session that will walk attendees through how to find, read, and understand state budgets published for the legislative session. Attendees will then be guided through how using the information from these budget documents can help them better understand resources available for the issues with which they are passionate, and how that information can be leveraged for educational and advocacy activities.
The purpose of this and other webinars included in this series is to give participants an understanding of current resources and projects related to Nevada’s behavioral health systems going into the legislative session.
Learn more and register: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/nevada-bh-pre-legislative-session-webinar-series-3934713

In Plain Sight: Confronting the Human Trafficking Crisis in Healthcare Settings
2025-01-29 16:00 - 18:00 | Zoom Webinar
Human trafficking is a rapidly increasing public health and safety issue in the United States. It is the fastest rising commerce in the world with over 200,000 minors at risk in the United States. People are forced into labor or sexual exploitation with deception and intimidation. It is reported that up to 80% of victims are seen by a healthcare provider while captive. Often, victims will not identify themselves as such due to the fear of being further abused by their captor. Health care providers are perfectly positioned to identify the signs and report suspected human trafficking. By educating clinicians, victims of trafficking may be more likely to be rescued and receive the appropriate resources recovery. This course will define types of trafficking, differentiate between sex trafficking and sex work, identify at-risk populations, describe how to identify and report trafficked patients, and discuss trauma-informed care. This course is approved by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission in accordance with House Bill 2059, 86th Session, 2019.

Learning Objectives:
By the end of this presentation, participants will:

Understand the definition of human trafficking, who is at risk, recruitment techniques, and the different types of trafficking.
Identify the difference between sex trafficking and sex work and trafficking and smuggling.
Learn how to identify a person that is being trafficked through screening and observing clinical signs, and when it is mandated to report.
Understand how traffickers exploit addiction and shared risk factors, such as trauma and economic instability, to control victims.
Recognize the critical role of healthcare providers in identifying signs of trafficking and addiction and connecting victims to resources.
Understand the procedures in which to report a potentially trafficked person.
Apply harm reduction tools and trauma-informed care strategies to support victims and collaborate with organizations to address trafficking and opioid addiction effectively.
Identify local and national resources for trafficked persons.

Presented by: Kandice Swarthout, RDH, LPC
Kandice Swarthout, RDH, LPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Dental Hygienist. She is a full-time dental hygiene educator in Texas where she teaches community dentistry and research. Kandice is the owner of a CE company called Inspired Education & Wellness where she is a speaker, writer, private practice therapist, and co-owner of Muffins & Mimosas Dental Study Club.

Continuing Education Units: 2 CEUs
This training is approved for continuing education by Nevada Certification Board for Peer Recovery Support Specialists (PRSS and PRSS-S), Community Health Workers (CHW), and Doulas as well as the boards listed here.

Funding for this activity was made possible in whole or in part by the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Director’s Office through the Fund for a Resilient Nevada, established in Nevada Revised Statutes 433.712 through 433.744. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in our courses are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of the Nevada Opioid Center of Excellence or its funders.
