Workshops currently under development. These are examples from our last conference.
2022 Workshops
Thursday, October 6, 3:00-4:00 P.M.
Thrive Family Recovery Resources - Workshop - Thursday, Oct. 6, 2022 3:00 P.M. - 4:00 P.M. Location: Cardinal Perch
Pam Lanhart, Thrive Family Recovery Resources, Executive Director of Programing
This workshop will equip faith leaders, peers, providers and professionals to help families engage in a
recovery oriented, strengths-based model of change. Similar to a peer recovery coach, family peer
support provides social, emotional and informational assistance to families navigating the recovery
process. We will explore how evidence-based practices such CRAFT, Motivational Interviewing and
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy provide the foundation for holistic family recovery. We will also
show how these practices align with virtually any faith values, as they help the family explore their
personal values, how they can gain insights and education that help them formulate an empathetic
response and how they can make responsive, rather than reactive decisions with intention based on
those values.
Pam Lanhart, Thrive Family Recovery Resources, Executive Director of Programing
This workshop will equip faith leaders, peers, providers and professionals to help families engage in a
recovery oriented, strengths-based model of change. Similar to a peer recovery coach, family peer
support provides social, emotional and informational assistance to families navigating the recovery
process. We will explore how evidence-based practices such CRAFT, Motivational Interviewing and
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy provide the foundation for holistic family recovery. We will also
show how these practices align with virtually any faith values, as they help the family explore their
personal values, how they can gain insights and education that help them formulate an empathetic
response and how they can make responsive, rather than reactive decisions with intention based on
those values.
Open 12-Step Drop-in Meeting - Thursday, Oct. 6, 2022 3:00 P.M. - 4:00 P.M. Location: Blue Heron Colony
"Open" meetings are open to the public. All are welcome.
"Drop-in" meetings welcome attendees to arrive and depart any time they like.
12-Step meetings have been found to be the most effective means of recovering from addiction.
Anyone is welcome to come and experience a 12-Step Meeting. Come and just listen or participate. The meeting is open to anyone whether you are in recovery or not. The meeting is also for people recovering from any type of addiction. This is a drop-in meeting which means you can drop in and drop out at any point in the meeting. No need to be on time and no obligation to stay for the duration.
The Purpose of the 12 Steps
The 12 Steps were created by the founders of Alcoholics Anonymous to establish guidelines for the best way to overcome an addiction to alcohol. The program gained enough success in its early years for other addiction support groups to adapt the steps to their own needs.
There are many 12-step programs for various addictions and compulsive behaviors, ranging from Cocaine Anonymous to Debtors Anonymous—all using the same 12 Step methods.
Although the 12 Steps are heavy on spirituality, many nonreligious people have found the program immensely helpful. The language emphasizes the presence of God as each participant understands him, allowing for different interpretations and religious beliefs.
"Open" meetings are open to the public. All are welcome.
"Drop-in" meetings welcome attendees to arrive and depart any time they like.
12-Step meetings have been found to be the most effective means of recovering from addiction.
Anyone is welcome to come and experience a 12-Step Meeting. Come and just listen or participate. The meeting is open to anyone whether you are in recovery or not. The meeting is also for people recovering from any type of addiction. This is a drop-in meeting which means you can drop in and drop out at any point in the meeting. No need to be on time and no obligation to stay for the duration.
The Purpose of the 12 Steps
The 12 Steps were created by the founders of Alcoholics Anonymous to establish guidelines for the best way to overcome an addiction to alcohol. The program gained enough success in its early years for other addiction support groups to adapt the steps to their own needs.
There are many 12-step programs for various addictions and compulsive behaviors, ranging from Cocaine Anonymous to Debtors Anonymous—all using the same 12 Step methods.
Although the 12 Steps are heavy on spirituality, many nonreligious people have found the program immensely helpful. The language emphasizes the presence of God as each participant understands him, allowing for different interpretations and religious beliefs.
Thursday, October 6, 4:00-5:00 P.M.
Mastery- a Path for Building Long-term Recovery - Workshop - Thursday, Oct. 6, 2022 4:00 P.M. - 5:00 P.M. Location: Cardinal Perch
Barry Lehman, Mastering Recovery, pastor, counselor and author
Mastery is simply getting better at something that’s important to you. The path of mastery is a good description of building long-term recovery beyond the first two years. All successful programs of recovery follow the same path but use different words to describe it. It is based on having learned that you have the skills and ability (with help) to make healthy choices and changes. It includes having a beginner’s mind to stick with the basics, the willingness to be persistent in actions and practice, developing mindfulness, awareness and gratitude, and the willingness to work with a sponsor, mentor, or coach. In the process, community, service, and spirituality lead to a lifestyle where recovery is not what we do, but who we are.
Barry Lehman, Mastering Recovery, pastor, counselor and author
Mastery is simply getting better at something that’s important to you. The path of mastery is a good description of building long-term recovery beyond the first two years. All successful programs of recovery follow the same path but use different words to describe it. It is based on having learned that you have the skills and ability (with help) to make healthy choices and changes. It includes having a beginner’s mind to stick with the basics, the willingness to be persistent in actions and practice, developing mindfulness, awareness and gratitude, and the willingness to work with a sponsor, mentor, or coach. In the process, community, service, and spirituality lead to a lifestyle where recovery is not what we do, but who we are.
Meditative Movement - Workshop - Thursday, Oct. 6, 2022 4:00 P.M. - 5:00 P.M. Location: Mallard Point
Ellie Peterson, Meditative Movements, Inspirer and Creator
As you work with individuals impacted by addiction, you need to be attuned to yourself first. Then you are giving from a full and open heart. Your faith can be enhanced and embodied by practicing the simple Meditative Movements which can be completed during a routine day and are adaptable to anyone’s physical ability. They integrate physical movements with the breath and your voice. A 2017 University of Minnesota research study found this meditation practice reduces anxiety, depression, and fatigue, while improving emotional and functional well-being.
Ellie Peterson, Meditative Movements, Inspirer and Creator
As you work with individuals impacted by addiction, you need to be attuned to yourself first. Then you are giving from a full and open heart. Your faith can be enhanced and embodied by practicing the simple Meditative Movements which can be completed during a routine day and are adaptable to anyone’s physical ability. They integrate physical movements with the breath and your voice. A 2017 University of Minnesota research study found this meditation practice reduces anxiety, depression, and fatigue, while improving emotional and functional well-being.
Open 12-Step Drop-in Meeting - Thursday, Oct. 6, 2022 4:00 P.M. - 5:00 P.M. Location: Blue Heron Colony
"Open" meetings are open to the public. All are welcome.
"Drop-in" meetings welcome attendees to arrive and depart any time they like.
12-Step meetings have been found to be the most effective means of recovering from addiction.
Anyone is welcome to come and experience a 12-Step Meeting. Come and just listen or participate. The meeting is open to anyone whether you are in recovery or not. The meeting is also for people recovering from any type of addiction. This is a drop-in meeting which means you can drop in and drop out at any point in the meeting. No need to be on time and no obligation to stay for the duration.
The Purpose of the 12 Steps
The 12 Steps were created by the founders of Alcoholics Anonymous to establish guidelines for the best way to overcome an addiction to alcohol. The program gained enough success in its early years for other addiction support groups to adapt the steps to their own needs.
There are many 12-step programs for various addictions and compulsive behaviors, ranging from Cocaine Anonymous to Debtors Anonymous—all using the same 12 Step methods.
Although the 12 Steps are heavy on spirituality, many nonreligious people have found the program immensely helpful. The language emphasizes the presence of God as each participant understands him, allowing for different interpretations and religious beliefs.
"Open" meetings are open to the public. All are welcome.
"Drop-in" meetings welcome attendees to arrive and depart any time they like.
12-Step meetings have been found to be the most effective means of recovering from addiction.
Anyone is welcome to come and experience a 12-Step Meeting. Come and just listen or participate. The meeting is open to anyone whether you are in recovery or not. The meeting is also for people recovering from any type of addiction. This is a drop-in meeting which means you can drop in and drop out at any point in the meeting. No need to be on time and no obligation to stay for the duration.
The Purpose of the 12 Steps
The 12 Steps were created by the founders of Alcoholics Anonymous to establish guidelines for the best way to overcome an addiction to alcohol. The program gained enough success in its early years for other addiction support groups to adapt the steps to their own needs.
There are many 12-step programs for various addictions and compulsive behaviors, ranging from Cocaine Anonymous to Debtors Anonymous—all using the same 12 Step methods.
Although the 12 Steps are heavy on spirituality, many nonreligious people have found the program immensely helpful. The language emphasizes the presence of God as each participant understands him, allowing for different interpretations and religious beliefs.
Thursday, October 6, 5:00-6:00 P.M.
Narcan Training - Workshop - Thursday, Oct. 6, 2022 5:00 P.M. - 6:00 P.M. Location: Cardinal Perch
Randy Anderson, Bold North Recovery and Consulting, Founder and Principal
This hour-long class and training will provide education about the dangers of opioids, signs of addiction, treatment options and the proper administration of naloxone (Narcan®). These trainings are open to all.
These sessions will include training on how to properly administer Naloxone, also known by the brand name Narcan®, a prescription medicine that reverses an opioid overdose. Funding for the classes has been provided through grants from the Minnesota Department of Health. All sessions will be taught by licensed alcohol and drug counselor Randy Anderson, founder of Bold North Recovery and Consulting. Attendees will receive a Narcan kit.
Randy Anderson, Bold North Recovery and Consulting, Founder and Principal
This hour-long class and training will provide education about the dangers of opioids, signs of addiction, treatment options and the proper administration of naloxone (Narcan®). These trainings are open to all.
These sessions will include training on how to properly administer Naloxone, also known by the brand name Narcan®, a prescription medicine that reverses an opioid overdose. Funding for the classes has been provided through grants from the Minnesota Department of Health. All sessions will be taught by licensed alcohol and drug counselor Randy Anderson, founder of Bold North Recovery and Consulting. Attendees will receive a Narcan kit.
Supporting Recovery in Faith and Community Settings through the Establishing of Recovery Friendly or "Certified" Recovery Congregations - Workshop - Thursday, Oct. 6, 2022 5:00 P.M. - 6:00 P.M. Location: Mallard Point
Greg Delaney, Woodhaven Residential Treatment Center, Community Engagement Specialist
"The on-going SURGE of the addiction and mental health crisis has left no community untouched, but we have a great resource within our communities of faith! By sharing strategies for engagement and education, this session will serve to inspire attendees to not just strategically leverage this critical, often untapped network and workforce within their community, but introduce easily accessible tools and training for those ready to engage!"
Learning Objective 1*
Upon completion, participant will be able to strategically engage communities of faith as a part of community response to addiction and mental health crisis
Learning Objective 2*
Upon completion, participants will be able to leverage evidence-based tools and education to better equip their faith-based recovery community for action
Learning Objective 3*
Upon completion, participant will be able to leverage a national network of expertise, best practices and collaborators dedicated to assisting in the development of faith-based recovery programs and solutions for community impact.
Greg Delaney, Woodhaven Residential Treatment Center, Community Engagement Specialist
"The on-going SURGE of the addiction and mental health crisis has left no community untouched, but we have a great resource within our communities of faith! By sharing strategies for engagement and education, this session will serve to inspire attendees to not just strategically leverage this critical, often untapped network and workforce within their community, but introduce easily accessible tools and training for those ready to engage!"
Learning Objective 1*
Upon completion, participant will be able to strategically engage communities of faith as a part of community response to addiction and mental health crisis
Learning Objective 2*
Upon completion, participants will be able to leverage evidence-based tools and education to better equip their faith-based recovery community for action
Learning Objective 3*
Upon completion, participant will be able to leverage a national network of expertise, best practices and collaborators dedicated to assisting in the development of faith-based recovery programs and solutions for community impact.
Open 12-Step Drop-in Meeting - Thursday, Oct. 6, 2022 5:00 P.M. - 6:00 P.M. Location: Blue Heron Colony
"Open" meetings are open to the public. All are welcome.
"Drop-in" meetings welcome attendees to arrive and depart any time they like.
12-Step meetings have been found to be the most effective means of recovering from addiction.
Anyone is welcome to come and experience a 12-Step Meeting. Come and just listen or participate. The meeting is open to anyone whether you are in recovery or not. The meeting is also for people recovering from any type of addiction. This is a drop-in meeting which means you can drop in and drop out at any point in the meeting. No need to be on time and no obligation to stay for the duration.
The Purpose of the 12 Steps
The 12 Steps were created by the founders of Alcoholics Anonymous to establish guidelines for the best way to overcome an addiction to alcohol. The program gained enough success in its early years for other addiction support groups to adapt the steps to their own needs.
There are many 12-step programs for various addictions and compulsive behaviors, ranging from Cocaine Anonymous to Debtors Anonymous—all using the same 12 Step methods.
Although the 12 Steps are heavy on spirituality, many nonreligious people have found the program immensely helpful. The language emphasizes the presence of God as each participant understands him, allowing for different interpretations and religious beliefs.
"Open" meetings are open to the public. All are welcome.
"Drop-in" meetings welcome attendees to arrive and depart any time they like.
12-Step meetings have been found to be the most effective means of recovering from addiction.
Anyone is welcome to come and experience a 12-Step Meeting. Come and just listen or participate. The meeting is open to anyone whether you are in recovery or not. The meeting is also for people recovering from any type of addiction. This is a drop-in meeting which means you can drop in and drop out at any point in the meeting. No need to be on time and no obligation to stay for the duration.
The Purpose of the 12 Steps
The 12 Steps were created by the founders of Alcoholics Anonymous to establish guidelines for the best way to overcome an addiction to alcohol. The program gained enough success in its early years for other addiction support groups to adapt the steps to their own needs.
There are many 12-step programs for various addictions and compulsive behaviors, ranging from Cocaine Anonymous to Debtors Anonymous—all using the same 12 Step methods.
Although the 12 Steps are heavy on spirituality, many nonreligious people have found the program immensely helpful. The language emphasizes the presence of God as each participant understands him, allowing for different interpretations and religious beliefs.
Breakout Sessions
Breakout Session #1 - Friday, October 7 - 11:00 A.M. - 12:15 P.M.
Improve Mental Health Access through Collaboration | Breakout Session #1 11:00 A.M. - 12:15 P.M. Location: Cardinal PerchVicki Elliott, Executive Director - Mental Health Connect
How can we provide mental health preventative care? How can we change the story around mental health and substance use? How can we let people know we care and will walk with them? How can we work together, share ideas and grow? Mental Health Connect is a non-profit collaborative model for faith communities, working together to support all people on their journey in life. I'll talk about how MHC began, what the goals are, how we bring people together, the critical systems in place, how we're making progress and reaching people right where they are.
How can we provide mental health preventative care? How can we change the story around mental health and substance use? How can we let people know we care and will walk with them? How can we work together, share ideas and grow? Mental Health Connect is a non-profit collaborative model for faith communities, working together to support all people on their journey in life. I'll talk about how MHC began, what the goals are, how we bring people together, the critical systems in place, how we're making progress and reaching people right where they are.
Grace and Healing: The Role of Faith in Posttraumatic Growth | Breakout Session #1 11:00 A.M. - 12:15 P.M. Location: Mallard Point
Keaton Douglas, iThirst Initiative, Executive Director
Many who endure pain and traumatic life events such as, death, divorce, abuse or loss of any sort can experience positive life events after the fact. Many individuals of faith have even experienced a development of inner strength, which leads to deeper and more intimate relationships with God and their fellows. This seminar explores both the empirical evidence as well as the Scriptural evidence for why we can be transformed and healed through our pain.
Keaton Douglas, iThirst Initiative, Executive Director
Many who endure pain and traumatic life events such as, death, divorce, abuse or loss of any sort can experience positive life events after the fact. Many individuals of faith have even experienced a development of inner strength, which leads to deeper and more intimate relationships with God and their fellows. This seminar explores both the empirical evidence as well as the Scriptural evidence for why we can be transformed and healed through our pain.
Bridging Spirituality of Recovery and Trauma | Breakout Session #1 11:00 A.M. - 12:15 P.M. Location: Eagles Nest
Kathleen McCauley, Hazelden Betty Ford Renewal Specialist
In recovery we bond in the sharing of our woundedness. Here we will continue this sharing and exploration of the psychological and spiritual woundedness which propels addiction. The theological principles of Wholeness: mind, body and spirit are the foundation of the Spirituality of Recovery. Incorporating theologians and writers such as: Parker Palmer, John Eldredge, Brené Brown and Tara Brach, we will see the threads of spirituality in the journey of healing and wholeness.
Kathleen McCauley, Hazelden Betty Ford Renewal Specialist
In recovery we bond in the sharing of our woundedness. Here we will continue this sharing and exploration of the psychological and spiritual woundedness which propels addiction. The theological principles of Wholeness: mind, body and spirit are the foundation of the Spirituality of Recovery. Incorporating theologians and writers such as: Parker Palmer, John Eldredge, Brené Brown and Tara Brach, we will see the threads of spirituality in the journey of healing and wholeness.
Justice Track
Drug Policy and the Common Good| Breakout Session #1 11:00 A.M. - 12:15 P.M. Location: Hawks Ridge
Tim King, author of "Addiction Nation"
Does drug policy in the United States serve the common good? You won’t be surprised to learn the answer is “no.” In this workshop, participants will learn about the foundational ideas behind current drug policy. We will explore models that could protect the common good, create a public health response to drug use and end the so-called “War on Drugs.”
Drug Policy and the Common Good| Breakout Session #1 11:00 A.M. - 12:15 P.M. Location: Hawks Ridge
Tim King, author of "Addiction Nation"
Does drug policy in the United States serve the common good? You won’t be surprised to learn the answer is “no.” In this workshop, participants will learn about the foundational ideas behind current drug policy. We will explore models that could protect the common good, create a public health response to drug use and end the so-called “War on Drugs.”
Breakout Session #2 - Friday, October 7 - 1:30-2:45 P.M.
Family Trauma Patterns from Addiction | Breakout Session #2 1:30-2:45 P.M. Location: Cardinal Perch
Michael Borowiak, MSW, LICSW - Traverse Counseling & Consulting
Families with addiction often experience trauma that results in unhealthy coping strategies to survive difficult circumstances. Using a trauma-informed lens, this presentation looks at the ways interactional trauma from the behaviors of addiction may cause a loss of attachment and nurturance within the family. The interactional patterns can be a source of trauma that can impact all family members. This presentation will explore common interactional patterns that can be problematic and identify new interactional patterns to assist families and those struggling with addiction to heal.
Michael Borowiak, MSW, LICSW - Traverse Counseling & Consulting
Families with addiction often experience trauma that results in unhealthy coping strategies to survive difficult circumstances. Using a trauma-informed lens, this presentation looks at the ways interactional trauma from the behaviors of addiction may cause a loss of attachment and nurturance within the family. The interactional patterns can be a source of trauma that can impact all family members. This presentation will explore common interactional patterns that can be problematic and identify new interactional patterns to assist families and those struggling with addiction to heal.
Gambling Disorder, Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health – Trauma Doesn’t Discriminate | Breakout Session #2 1:30-2:45 P.M. Location: Mallard Point
Susan Sheridan Tucker, Executive Director, Minnesota Alliance on Problem Gambling
A closer look at gambling disorder and why we need to be paying attention to it.
It has only been in the last 10 years that gambling disorder has been recognized as a peer addiction to substance use disorder and shares strong ties to significant mental health issues. Yet the public, policymakers, addiction and mental health providers understand so little about this addiction. In this session, we’ll cover the basics of gambling disorder: signs, causes, current understanding to its relationships with other addictions and mental health. We will also discuss the connection between trauma and gambling and the current state of gambling disorder in our health system.
Susan Sheridan Tucker, Executive Director, Minnesota Alliance on Problem Gambling
A closer look at gambling disorder and why we need to be paying attention to it.
It has only been in the last 10 years that gambling disorder has been recognized as a peer addiction to substance use disorder and shares strong ties to significant mental health issues. Yet the public, policymakers, addiction and mental health providers understand so little about this addiction. In this session, we’ll cover the basics of gambling disorder: signs, causes, current understanding to its relationships with other addictions and mental health. We will also discuss the connection between trauma and gambling and the current state of gambling disorder in our health system.
Justice Track
Harm Reduction and Healing Centered Engagement in Spiritual Care | Breakout Session #2 1:30-2:45 P.M. Location: Eagles Nest
Rev Erica Poellot, MSW, MDiv, and Rev. Michelle Mathis
Trauma informed care is one of the standards in spiritual care for people with lived experience of substance use and/or overdose and in recent years has evolved towards what is being called Healing Centered Engagement. With the increasing adoption of harm reduction practices and philosophies across a range of sectors, including traditional recovery and treatment, social service, and health and wellness ministries, understanding the intersections with trauma informed care, healing centered engagement, and harm reduction is critical to building holistic, culturally responsive spiritual care settings.
At a time when preventable drug overdose deaths continue to grow, it is essential to ensure that spiritual care with people with lived experience of substance use and overdose is aligned in a way that optimizes connection, decreases stigma, is strengths based, and reduces the social and health complications associated with drug use.
This session will review the ethos of harm reduction, its intersections with trauma informed spiritual care, and the evolution towards a more holistic healing centered engagement approach to care. The presenters will demonstrate how this can be applied to a variety of ministry settings to expand reach and impact of spiritual care services.
Harm Reduction and Healing Centered Engagement in Spiritual Care | Breakout Session #2 1:30-2:45 P.M. Location: Eagles Nest
Rev Erica Poellot, MSW, MDiv, and Rev. Michelle Mathis
Trauma informed care is one of the standards in spiritual care for people with lived experience of substance use and/or overdose and in recent years has evolved towards what is being called Healing Centered Engagement. With the increasing adoption of harm reduction practices and philosophies across a range of sectors, including traditional recovery and treatment, social service, and health and wellness ministries, understanding the intersections with trauma informed care, healing centered engagement, and harm reduction is critical to building holistic, culturally responsive spiritual care settings.
At a time when preventable drug overdose deaths continue to grow, it is essential to ensure that spiritual care with people with lived experience of substance use and overdose is aligned in a way that optimizes connection, decreases stigma, is strengths based, and reduces the social and health complications associated with drug use.
This session will review the ethos of harm reduction, its intersections with trauma informed spiritual care, and the evolution towards a more holistic healing centered engagement approach to care. The presenters will demonstrate how this can be applied to a variety of ministry settings to expand reach and impact of spiritual care services.
The Psychodelic Renaissance, Trauma & Recovery| Breakout Session #2 1:30-2:45 P.M. Location: Hawks Ridge
Timothy McMahon King, author of "Addiction Nation"
Learn what the latest research has to say about the use of psychedelic-assisted therapy in treating depression, PTSD and substance use disorders. We will explore the surprising history of these substances in relationship to origins of the 12-Steps movement and Hebrew and Christian scriptures. Participants will walk away with a better understanding of the science of psychedelics and a moral framework for understanding the opportunities and challenges ahead.
Timothy McMahon King, author of "Addiction Nation"
Learn what the latest research has to say about the use of psychedelic-assisted therapy in treating depression, PTSD and substance use disorders. We will explore the surprising history of these substances in relationship to origins of the 12-Steps movement and Hebrew and Christian scriptures. Participants will walk away with a better understanding of the science of psychedelics and a moral framework for understanding the opportunities and challenges ahead.
Breakout Session #3 - Friday, October 7 - 3:15 - 4:30 P.M.
Developing Transformational Leaders for Addiction Ministry | Breakout Session #3 3:15 - 4:30 P.M. Location: Cardinal Perch
Drew Brooks, Executive Director - Faith Partners, Inc.
This interactive workshop describes the Faith Partners’ evidence-based model of congregational readiness and capacity-building that moves faith leaders from rare conversations about behavioral health to active involvement in community prevention and recovery support activities. Participants will receive tools, strategies, and a spiritual basis to initiate an effective, sustainable ministry in their congregational communities.
Drew Brooks, Executive Director - Faith Partners, Inc.
This interactive workshop describes the Faith Partners’ evidence-based model of congregational readiness and capacity-building that moves faith leaders from rare conversations about behavioral health to active involvement in community prevention and recovery support activities. Participants will receive tools, strategies, and a spiritual basis to initiate an effective, sustainable ministry in their congregational communities.
How Your Faith Community Can Become an Agent of Prevention | Breakout Session #3 3:15 - 4:30 P.M. Location: Eagles Nest
Rev. Joy Gonnerman, Certified Prevention Specialist, International Gaming Disorder Specialist - Rosecrance Jackson Centers, Sioux City, Iowa
Substance Use Disorder and process disorders are issues of community health. We know that 90% of adults with substance use disorder started using in their teens so the youth around us need our help. Addiction is not a moral failing but rather a disease of the brain so our concern is not one of morality but of brain health. We also know that there are factors that put a young person at greater risk for substance use disorder. Communities of faith are ideally situated for providing protective factors for individuals, communities and systems all by holding Matthew 25 as our guide. How better for communities gathered in faith to reach out to neighbors? There is both a science and a passion for this work. Expect to learn of the continuum of care, the cycle of addiction, risk factors and protective factors that you can use as individuals and as faith leaders.
Rev. Joy Gonnerman, Certified Prevention Specialist, International Gaming Disorder Specialist - Rosecrance Jackson Centers, Sioux City, Iowa
Substance Use Disorder and process disorders are issues of community health. We know that 90% of adults with substance use disorder started using in their teens so the youth around us need our help. Addiction is not a moral failing but rather a disease of the brain so our concern is not one of morality but of brain health. We also know that there are factors that put a young person at greater risk for substance use disorder. Communities of faith are ideally situated for providing protective factors for individuals, communities and systems all by holding Matthew 25 as our guide. How better for communities gathered in faith to reach out to neighbors? There is both a science and a passion for this work. Expect to learn of the continuum of care, the cycle of addiction, risk factors and protective factors that you can use as individuals and as faith leaders.
Addiction, Recovery and the American Family | Breakout Session #3 3:15 - 4:30 P.M. Location: Mallard Point
Rev. Dr. Dan Gibson, Primary Counselor, Teen Program, Thelma McMillen Recovery Center
This workshop offers a historical context of the American family (from the mid-20th Century to the present day) and how that has contributed to the various trends of substance abuse in our society today. Along the way, we discuss the various myths and foundations of addiction, how family members commonly react to substance abuse in the home, and conclude with helpful approaches for the family that include prevention, maintaining a healthy “balance,” and seeking recovery for the whole family.
Rev. Dr. Dan Gibson, Primary Counselor, Teen Program, Thelma McMillen Recovery Center
This workshop offers a historical context of the American family (from the mid-20th Century to the present day) and how that has contributed to the various trends of substance abuse in our society today. Along the way, we discuss the various myths and foundations of addiction, how family members commonly react to substance abuse in the home, and conclude with helpful approaches for the family that include prevention, maintaining a healthy “balance,” and seeking recovery for the whole family.
Justice Track
Leveraging Harm Reduction Approaches to Transform Drug Treatment | Breakout Session #3 3:15 - 4:30 P.M. Location: Hawks Ridge
Rev. Dr. Charles King. Co-founder & CEO of Housing Works, Inc.
Harm reduction is often viewed as a stepping-stone to drug treatment. In fact, while much of harm reduction work focuses on short term interventions to prevent disease transmission, overdose and other adverse outcomes associated with drug use, and can serve as a vehicle to move people toward traditional drug treatment, it can also be a wholistic, person-centered, and trauma-informed approach to addressing substance use disorder without the imperative of abstinence from drugs as the only acceptable outcome.
This workshop will review a plethora of changes in approach to drug treatment that fully center on a harm reduction approach. This will include regulatory changes in the New York State Office of Addiction Supports and Services, the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services, and the US Justice Department.
Leveraging Harm Reduction Approaches to Transform Drug Treatment | Breakout Session #3 3:15 - 4:30 P.M. Location: Hawks Ridge
Rev. Dr. Charles King. Co-founder & CEO of Housing Works, Inc.
Harm reduction is often viewed as a stepping-stone to drug treatment. In fact, while much of harm reduction work focuses on short term interventions to prevent disease transmission, overdose and other adverse outcomes associated with drug use, and can serve as a vehicle to move people toward traditional drug treatment, it can also be a wholistic, person-centered, and trauma-informed approach to addressing substance use disorder without the imperative of abstinence from drugs as the only acceptable outcome.
This workshop will review a plethora of changes in approach to drug treatment that fully center on a harm reduction approach. This will include regulatory changes in the New York State Office of Addiction Supports and Services, the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services, and the US Justice Department.
2022 Workshop Presenters
Pam Lanhart ,
Executive Director of Programing, Thrive Family Recovery Resources |
Pam Lanhart is a Certified Family Recovery Coach, a Peer Recovery Specialist and Arise trained
Interventionist, acting as the director of a non-profit family recovery program, as well as working in private practice as a family comprehensive care consultant. Pam is committed to assisting those impacted by their loved ones substance use to create a recovery oriented family system of care. She has presented at state and national conferences regarding how families can more effectively invite change into the dynamics of addiction by using evidence based best practices and harm-reduction techniques, informed by compassion, empathy and maintaining the self-efficacy of the person with SUD. As a person in recovery for the life-long effects of addiction, Pam offers the option of a holistic, team approach to recovery that supports alternative pathways. Pam was also the 2021 recipient of the Vernon Johnson Award from Faces & Voices of Recovery, which is presented to individuals who have devoted their life and work to spreading the message of recovery and harm reduction. Session: Thrive Family Recovery Resources Workshop - Thursday, Oct. 6, 2022 3:00 P.M. - 4:00 P.M. Location: Cardinal Perch |
Rev. Dr. Ed Treat
Founder and Executive director Center of Addiction & Faith |
Rev. Dr Ed Treat has been in long-term recovery from addiction for 36 years. He received his Master of divinity and a doctorate in ministry from Luther Seminary. From 1995-2020, he was a parish pastor, serving congregations in rural Nebraska and around the Twin Cities.
Treat joined the newly formed Fellowship of Recovering Lutheran Clergy (FRLC) in 1990. In 2001, Treat became the director of the FRLC and remains such today. In 2020, he founded The Center of Addiction & Faith, as a 501©3 nonprofit. He sits on the boards of the FRLC, the RMEC, the Center of Addiction & Faith, Minnesota Mental Health Connect, and serves on the PAC of Minnesota Recovery Connection. He is author of The Pastor, a psychological novel about a small-town pastor who confronts a mystery surrounding the death of a member of his congregation. When he is not practicing social distance during a pandemic, he loves to plan group trips and travel. He and his wife Karen, also a Lutheran minister, have four grown children and one granddaughter. The Center of Addiction & Faith Awakening faith communities to address addiction - to lift the fallen, restore the broken and heal the hurting... Why? Faith Communities are well positioned throughout the country to help make a difference with addiction, but very few of them do anything about it. We want to change that. Addiction is the number one health crisis facing our society today, and it is continually growing worse. How do we as people of faith respond? The Center of Addiction & Faith provides essential education, inspiration, and practical tools for ministry. These tools help develop leadership and create congregation vitalization. |
Rev. Dr. Barry Lehman,
Retired Moravian pastor |
Barry Lehman is a retired Moravian pastor, a licensed alcohol and drug counselor, and the author of several best-selling books. His own journey of recovery began in October 1988 and he has been working in the substance abuse field for thirty years. He has a Doctor of Ministry (DMin) degree in counseling from the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago and has worked in school-based, outpatient, and residential education and treatment settings. As a pastor he served Moravian congregations in Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. In addition to books on mastering recovery, he has published a book on mastery and personal transformation as a musician, Life in Tune, and a book of his Christmas Eve stories, Christmas Grace and Light. He continues to play trumpet in a number of musical groups in Rochester, MN, where he lives with his wife, Valerie, also a retired Moravian pastor.
Session: Mastery- a Path for Building Long-term Recovery Workshop - Thursday, Oct. 6, 2022 4:00 P.M. - 5:00 P.M. Location: Cardinal Perch |
Ellie Peterson,
Inspirer and Creator Meditative Movements |
Over 40 years ago, Ellie Peterson created this technique to heal her own personal trauma and addictive personality: distorted body image, smoker, co-dependent, and binge drinker. When she was 23 years old, she was divorced and raising 3 children on her own while making $80 a week as ‘Ellie from deli.” Her body was unhealthy; her mind was chaotic, and her spiritual being was weighed down with fear, self-pity, anger, and worthlessness. Moving her body mindfully, while filling her mind with thoughts of love helped her heal.
Session: Meditative Movement Workshop - Thursday, Oct. 6, 2022 4:00 P.M. - 5:00 P.M. Location: Mallard Point |
Randy Anderson
Founder and Principal, Bold North Recovery and Consulting |
Randy is a person living in long term recovery and what that means to him is, he hasn’t had to use drugs, alcohol, or any mood-altering substance since January 9, 2005. After receiving the life-saving gifts of treatment and recovery, Randy completed his A.S. degree in addiction counseling at Minneapolis Community & Technical College in 2015 and worked as a full-time counselor for 2 years at RS EDEN/Eden House Recovery Services – the very same treatment facility where he was once a client. Randy served as a Board of Directors member for the Steve Rummler Hope Network, the organization responsible for passing Steve’s Law in 2014. In February 2018 Randy stepped down as a board member and was hired as the full-time Overdose Prevention Manager, which required training law enforcement, EMS, the public and anyone who wants to carry and know how to administer naloxone, the medication to reverse an opioid overdose. As a nationally recognized advocate for recovery and reform, Randy also serves as a member of the MN Second Chance Coalition Board of Directors. There he was given the opportunity to testify during the 2015/2016 legislative session in front of several legislative committees during the drug sentencing reform hearings. Because of his testimony - and that of others - MN had the most significant change in drug sentencing in nearly three decades. He is grateful to know because of those sentencing guideline changes, approximately 700 less people will be incarcerated yearly because they have the disease of addiction. Randy recently completed his B.A. degree in human services at Bethel University and lives with his wife, dog and cat in Golden Valley, MN. In March 2019 Randy decided to follow is passion and venture out on his own and started Bold North Recovery and Consulting. Session: Narcan Training Workshop - Thursday, Oct. 6, 2022 5:00 P.M. - 6:00 P.M. Location: Cardinal Perch |
Pastor Greg Delaney,
Community Engagement Specialist, Woodhaven Residential Treatment Center |
Greg is a Senior COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT SPECIALIST for Statewide Alcohol and Drug Treatment Center, WOODHAVEN, while also serving as a member of Ohio Governor Mike DeWine’s RECOVERYOHIO Advisory Council where he champions the efforts of the FAITH/RECOVERY community in Ohio. Greg has also been BLESSED to serve as an advocate, educator, and facilitator for faith-based recovery efforts of the White House Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships and continues to serve as a FAITH-BASED Recovery Educator for Ohio Non-Profit Reach for Tomorrow Ohio where he seeks to educate communities as to substance use disorder’s community impact and how to respond with evidence-based solutions. Pastor Greg has served as a National Trainer for the ENCOMPASS OHIO ‘Navigating Addiction’ program, an evolving educational program developed in partnership between Ohio Governor Mike DeWine’s RecoveryOhio initiative and Washington DC based, Addiction Policy Forum. Pastor Greg has also been tapped to assist as a faith-based recovery stakeholder as the Department of Recovery under SAMHSA.
Lastly, Greg is part of an effort to establish a Nationwide Consultancy to help educate, engage, and certify faith-based organizations who are helping individuals effected by substance use disorder, mental health challenges, and suicide ideation. Due to his network and experience as both one in long-term recovery and one who has served those seeking recovery for 14+ years, Pastor Greg serves engages and consults on several boards including the Women’s Recovery Center, Safe Harbor House Ohio, Foundations for Recovery in Las Vegas Nevada, and the Faith Leadership Academy in Atlanta Georgia. He is a 1988 graduate of Wright State University with a B.S. in Marketing was ordained into ministry in 2009 and has been married to his wife Dr. Elizabeth Delaney for over 30 years and is father to Hillary, Samantha, and Ian. Session: Supporting Recovery in Faith and Community Settings through the Establishing of Recovery Friendly or "Certified" Recovery Congregations Workshop - Thursday, Oct. 6, 2022 5:00 P.M. - 6:00 P.M. Location: Mallard Point |
2022 Breakout Presenters
Ms. Vicki Elliott,
Executive Director - Mental Health Connect |
Vicki develops the MHConnect programs, connects with collaborative communities and supporters, and grows the organization in order to reach more people. After losing her oldest son Cole to mental health-related issues in 2018, she became passionate about providing support to people that have a mental health concern. We ALL have mental health and it needs care.
Session: Collaborative Faith Community Model-Changing the Story Breakout Session #1 11:00 A.M. - 12:15 P.M. Location: Cardinal Perch |
Keaton Douglas,
iThirst Initiative, Executive Director |
Keaton spearheads CEPS' iThirst Spiritual Companionship Certification Training program and is a consultant, educator, counselor and frequent guest speaker in the field of addiction and recovery, particularly as it pertains to the interface of Catholic spirituality and recovery. She is the creator and executive director of the I THIRST Initiative – (The Healing Initiative – Recovery, Spirituality, Twelve step), a Mission of the Missionary Servants of the Most Holy Trinity and a comprehensive program which focuses on spirituality in the prevention, treatment and aftercare of those suffering from substance use disorders and their families.
Keaton holds a Bachelor of Science from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., and an M.A. in Theology from the Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology at Seton Hall. She is also a CCAR (Connecticut Community Addiction Recovery) Recovery Coach. Keaton has one grown son, Michael; her husband, Tom, and she live on a small horse farm in Sussex County, New Jersey. Session: Grace and Healing: The Role of Faith in Post-traumatic Growth Breakout Session #1 11:00 A.M. - 12:15 P.M. Location: Mallard Point |
Kathleen McCauley, MA C.P.R.S.
Hazelden Betty Ford Renewal Specialist Founder of Threads of Spirituality |
Kathleen is a Founder of Threads of Spirituality, www.threadsofspirituality.com, and Certified Recovery Specialist with thirty-three years of continuous sobriety. She is a Commissioned/Ordained minister with the Federation of Christian Ministers and is a trained Chaplain with specific training with Substance Use Disorder. Her knowledge of varied spiritual practices, combined with her extensive knowledge of Twelve Step applications, makes her one of the most sought out speakers in the recovery and healing field.
Session: Bridging Spirituality of Recovery and Trauma Breakout Session #1 11:00 A.M. - 12:15 P.M. Location: Eagles Nest |
Timothy McMahan King
Author of Addiction Nation: What the Opioid Crisis Reveals About Us |
Author of Addiction Nation, Timothy McMahan King is a writer, nonprofit professional, and the owner of Vagabond Strategies. He has worked as a community organizer in Chicago, a chief strategy officer with Sojourners, and as a consultant for the Center for Action and Contemplation. Kings work has been published in Christianity Today, Sojourners, the Wall Street Journal and CNN. A graduate of North Park University with degrees in theology and philosophy, King lives with his wife, Hannah, and new daughter, Ruth, in New Hamsphire. Session: Drug Policy and the Common Good Breakout Session #1 11:00 A.M. - 12:15 P.M. Location: Hawks Ridge The Psychodelic Renaissance, Trauma and Recovery Breakout Session #2 1:030 AP.M. - 2:45 P.M. Location: Hawks Ridge |
Susan Sheridan Tucker
Executive Director, Minnesota Alliance on Problem Gambling |
Susan Sheridan Tucker is the Executive Director of Minnesota Alliance on Problem Gambling. She’s been with the organization since 2018. Susan serves on the National Council on Problem Gambling Board of Directors. Over the past 30 years, Susan’s career has focused on nonprofit management, building organizations and advocating for those with diminished voice or power. Susan sees tremendous opportunities for improving the delivery system of care for those with gambling disorder. Susan is also intrigued by the movement to emphasize lower risk play for all. One of Susan’s hopes is for mental health and behavioral health providers to receive significant training on gambling disorder and to integrate care plans to reflect this highly prevalent co-occurring morbidity.
Session: Gambling Disorder, Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health – Trauma Doesn’t Discriminate Breakout Session #2 1:30-2:45 P.M. Location: Mallard Point |
Michael Borowiak
MSW, LICSW Traverse Counseling |
Michael has been in private practice since 1997. He specializes in helping individuals and families out of stressful and challenging dynamics, such as divorce, trauma, substance abuse, depression, anxiety and significant medical conditions. Michael has an MSW (Masters of Social Work) and is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW). He is trained in family systems therapy, chemical dependency and child and adolescent therapy, with an undergraduate degree in psychology. Michael has been working with couples, families and children his entire career.
Session: Family Trauma Patterns from Addiction Breakout Session #2 1:30-2:45 P.M. Location: Cardinal Perch |
Rev. Erica Poellot
Director of Faith in Harm Reduction United Church of Christ |
Rev. Erica M. Poellot, MSW, MDiv serves as the Minister of Harm Reduction and Overdose Prevention Ministries for the National United Church of Christ and the Director of Faith in Harm Reduction, a project of the National Harm Reduction Coalition and Judson Memorial Church. As a faith leader in long-term recovery, Erica founded ‘Faith in Harm Reduction’ to co-create a justice movement which connects people who use drugs, their loved ones, and communities of faith through the development of harm reduction centered spiritual resources, ritual support, and spiritual care. With joint MDiv/MSW degrees from Union Theological Seminary and Columbia University in NYC, Erica is based at Judson Memorial Church in NYC.
Session: Harm Reduction and Healing Centered Engagement in Spiritual Care Breakout Session #2 1:30-2:45 P.M. Location: Eagles Nest |
Rev. Michelle Mathis
Co-founder & Executive Director The Olive Branch Ministry |
Rev. Michelle Mathis is co-founder and Executive Director of The Olive Branch Ministry, a faith-based harm reduction agency in North Carolina. She is the director of Points of HOPE, a justice-centered education and syringe access program, and is project coordinator for a local county EMS post overdose response team. Michelle serves as Advisory Board Chair for the National Faith in Harm Reduction movement. She believes that honoring an individual’s journey, with compassion and love, is the key to a successful connection. While her faith is the motivation behind her work, extending hope and extending life is her mission.
Session: Harm Reduction and Healing Centered Engagement in Spiritual Care Breakout Session #2 1:30-2:45 P.M. Location: Eagles Nest |
Drew Brooks
CEO, Faith Partners |
Drew is the Executive Director of Faith Partners, a non-profit organization providing leadership, training, and consultation for a congregational addiction team ministry model. The Faith Partners (FP) team approach is an evidence-based intervention with nearly a thousand trained congregational teams from 23 different faith traditions in 29 states. He has worked with Faith Partners since 1999 in the roles of Program Manager and Minnesota Area Coordinator as well. He also has been involved with congregational lay leadership in music, youth, caring, small group, and addiction ministries.
Session: Developing Transformational Leaders for Addiction Ministry Breakout Session #3 3:15 - 4:30 P.M. Location: Cardinal Perch |
Rev. Dr. Dan Gibson D Min, M Div, CADC
Primary Counselor, Teen Program Thelma McMillen Recovery Center |
Dan is a graduate of Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary, and has served the ELCA in various capacities, from youth worker to parish pastor, for nearly 40 years. Dan completed his chemical dependency studies through CCAPP (California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals), was certified in 2014, and currently holds a level of CADC I. Dan completed his doctoral studies at the Claremont School of Theology in 2020. Dan currently serves as a primary counselor for the teen unit at Thelma McMillen Recovery Center in Torrance, CA, and as a resource person in addiction, recovery, and spirituality in the ELCA.
Session: Addiction, Recovery and the American Family Breakout Session #3 3:15 - 4:30 P.M. Location: Mallard Point |
Rev. Joy Gonnerman (with Loyola)Rosecrance Jackson Centers, Certified Prevention Specialist, International Gaming Disorder Specialist
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Joy was born and raised in Northfield, Minnesota where she, among other things, ran her own education business for 11 years and attended seminary. She was ordained into Word and Sacrament in the Lutheran Church (ELCA) in 2008. She and her son moved to Iowa in 2010 to a call to Kimballton, Iowa. Following that and a call to Pocahontas, Iowa, Gonnerman moved to Sioux City as a volunteer for Reading Corps and began working as a recovery counselor for Jackson Recovery Centers in the adolescent residential unit while also serving as the pastor for Immanuel Lutheran Church in Sioux City. She moved into her present position as a prevention specialist in 2018.
Gonnerman lives in Sioux City with her husband, Wayne Gallipo. They met on the first day of seminary 17 years ago and were married in 2019. Gallipo is the pastor of the Lutheran congregation, St Dysmas, inside the walls of the penitentiary in Sioux Falls. They share their home with a dog, two cats and a parrot. Session: How the church can become an agent of prevention Breakout Session #3 3:15 - 4:30 P.M. Location: Eagles Nest |
Rev. Dr. Charles King
Founder and CEO of Housing Works, Inc. |
Charles is a co-founder and CEO of Housing Works, Inc., a community-based, not–for–profit organization that provides a full range of services including housing, health care, mental health, chemical dependency, and legal services, advocacy, and job training and employment for homeless men, women, and children living with HIV/AIDS and other chronic conditions. Charles served on the governing body of UNAIDS as a member of the NGO Delegation to the Programme Coordinating Board (PCB) and was Co-chair of the NYS Ending the Epidemic Task Force. Charles is currently a member of the New York State AIDS Advisory Council and the Co-Chair of the AIDS Advisory Council Ending the Epidemic Subcommittee. Charles also co-chairs the ACT Now: End AIDS Coalition, a national ending the epidemic coalition, and serves on the Board of the National AIDS Housing Coalition and on the Executive Committee of the NYS Harm Reduction Association.
Prior to founding Housing Works, Charles worked for 16 months at the AIDS Project at the New York Coalition for the Homeless. Prior to that, he was the Assistant Pastor at Immanuel Missionary Baptist Church, where he was ordained. Charles holds both a Master of Divinity and a Juris Doctorate from Yale University. Session: Leveraging Harm Reduction Approaches to Transform Drug Treatment Breakout Session #3 3:15 - 4:30 P.M. Location: Hawks Ridge |
