Season: Season 1

Episode 14: Permission to Heal: Trauma, Yoga, and Connecting People Who Use Opioids (PWUO) Communities with Kayla Shannon

In this episode of The NOCE Dose, host Bianca D. McCall engages in a deep conversation with Kayla Shannon, a licensed clinical social worker, about the opioid response programming in Nevada. They discuss the importance of collaboration among professionals, the unique trauma profiles in Nevada communities, and the integration of holistic treatments like yoga into medically assisted treatment (MAT). Kayla shares insights on how trauma-informed care can empower individuals to share their stories and the benefits of providing comprehensive support in correctional facilities. The episode concludes with a call to action for community engagement and support in recovery efforts.

Episode 13: Join the Journey: Discover the Hidden Gem of Mentorship with Kim Nischik

In this episode of The NOCE Dose, host Bianca D. McCall sits down with Kim Nischik, a board-certified physician assistant, to discuss the opioid response in Nevada and the vital role of mentorship in addiction treatment. Reflecting on insights from a recent listening session, they explore strategies for educating patients about medication options, overcoming barriers to access, and fostering a supportive environment for recovery. Kim shares her experiences on the frontlines of healthcare, highlighting the importance of connectedness in care and the commitment of Northern Nevada Hopes to both patients and providers. This episode underscores the power of education, advocacy, and mentorship in strengthening the addiction treatment landscape.

Episode 12: Embracing Discomfort with Persistence: Healing Trauma Around OUD with Dr. Krista Hales

In this episode of The NOCE Dose, host Bianca D. McCall sits down with Dr. Krista Hales to discuss Nevada’s opioid response programming and the critical role of community connections in behavioral health. Reflecting on insights from a recent listening session, they explore the challenges of maintaining motivation in recovery, the importance of psychological safety for treatment providers, and the necessity of cultural responsiveness in substance use treatment. Dr. Hales emphasizes the power of teaching individuals to find comfort in discomfort and shares personal experiences on resilience, advocacy, and self-care in the field. This conversation serves as a powerful reminder of the need for trust, persistence, and a supportive community in addressing substance use disorders.

Episode 11: For Now We Live: Pro-Social Activities and the Mental Wellness Gym Model for Rurals with Erik Schoen

In this insightful conversation, Bianca D. McCall and Erik Schoen discuss the challenges and opportunities in addressing opioid use disorder and mental health in rural Nevada. They explore the importance of community engagement, pro-social activities, and the need for a shift in mental health models to better serve the unique needs of rural populations. Erik shares his experiences and insights on building infrastructure, fostering connections, and the existential aspects of health and wellness. In this conversation, Erik Schoen and Bianca D. McCall discuss the importance of building trust in rural communities, the role of lived experience in treatment, and the integration of holistic approaches and technology in mental health care. They emphasize the need for cultural competence, the empowerment of community members, and the significance of mentorship in fostering growth within these communities. The dialogue highlights the challenges and opportunities in bridging the gap between traditional treatment methods and innovative, community-driven solutions.

Episode 10: Listening Session: Treatment for Individuals with Opioid Use Disorder

In our third Listening Session, The NOCE Dose, host Bianca D. McCall leads insightful conversations with experts on the opioid response in Nevada. Through discussions with clinicians, social workers, and healthcare professionals, this episode explores the importance of community collaboration, trauma-informed care, and holistic approaches in addiction treatment. Guests share their experiences in addressing barriers to care, fostering psychological safety in the workforce, and mentoring the next generation of providers. From integrating holistic therapies like yoga in medically assisted treatment (MAT) to navigating the complexities of cultural responsiveness, this episode highlights the power of connection, persistence, and education in improving addiction recovery efforts.

Episode 9: When Love Hurts: Parenting Through the Opioid Crisis with Darcy Patterson

In this conversation, Bianca D. McCall and Darcy Patterson discuss the complexities of substance use disorders, the impact of personal loss, and the importance of community support and advocacy. Darcy shares her personal journey with her daughter’s struggles with addiction and her subsequent advocacy work with Wake Up Nevada. The discussion emphasizes the need for education, harm reduction strategies, and the importance of self-care for families affected by substance use. The conversation highlights the transformation from silence to advocacy and the critical role of connection in recovery.