Session Descriptions

Session descriptions and presenter information for breakout sessions has been added (use tabs). Keynote and Lived Experience Panel information coming soon!

 


Keynote Information Coming Soon
Lived Experience of Suicide Panel

On Friday at noon, Dr. Lia Knox will facilitate a panel discussion with four individuals in Wisconsin who have experienced suicidal thoughts and/or suicide attempts. Their perspectives provide invaluable expertise to stakeholders engaged in this work across various sectors. By listening to and centering the voices of people who have been there, we seek to broaden our horizons around suicide and suicide prevention in our state. Every year this is a highlight of the conference.

Panelist information coming soon.

May 14, 2025

You will not need to register for specific sessions. You may attend whichever session you wish on the day of the conference.

Breakout Session 1 - 8:45 - 10:00 am CT

1a. Avoiding Fault Lines: Developing Clinical Skills for Discussing Firearm Injury Prevention

1b. Collaborative Action  – Tri-County COPE Coalition’s Drive for Change

1c. Belonging Matters: Fostering School Connection to Help Prevent Youth Suicide

Breakout Session 2 - 10:15 - 11:30 am CT

2a. Suicidal Thoughts and Autism: One Family's Journey

2b. Silent Desperation: The Link Between Gambling, Financial Crisis, and Suicide Risk

2c. Systems of Oppression & Emotions

1a. Avoiding Fault Lines: Developing Clinical Skills for Discussing Firearm Injury Prevention

This talk will highlight the importance of creating a clinic culture where each member of the clinical team understands the importance of employing a population health-based approach to enhance patient counseling on firearm injury reduction and secure storage of firearms with special focus on lethal means restriction counseling.

  • Objective 1 Identify strategies to reduce firearm injury risk including counseling on secure firearm storage and firearm transfer
  • Objective 2 Demonstrate a culturally aware approach to discussing firearm injury prevention with patients
  • Objective 3 Practice firearm injury prevention and safe storage screening and counseling with firearm-owning patients

James Bigham, MD, MPH is a Clinical Professor in the Department of Family Medicine and Community Health at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health. Dr. Bigham trains health professionals on cultural awareness when engaging patients in discussions on firearm secure storage and firearm injury prevention. He co-founded a novel hands-on firearm injury prevention training called Lock, Stock and Barrel which works to bridge the divide between clinicians and gun shop owners. During these sessions, participants have an opportunity to learn in a judgement free space as they enhance proficiency with counseling patients on firearm injury prevention. Dr. Bigham also serves as the Vice Chair of the national board of directors for SAFE (Scrubs Addressing the Firearm Epidemic, standsafe.org), a nonprofit working to ensure that all healthcare providers are equipped with skills and evidence-based knowledge to advise their patients, communities, and legislators on firearm use and ownership to prevent firearm injuries and deaths.

1b. Collaborative Action  – Tri-County COPE Coalition’s Drive for Change

The Tri-county Community Outreach Prevention Education (COPE) Coalition is an alliance of several businesses, schools, agencies, and community members who have come together from Forest, Oneida, and Vilas Counties to work toward a common goal - to prevent suicide deaths and reduce stigma around mental health.  The coalition meets monthly to focus on common goals, with their main focus on May for Mental Health Month and September for Suicide Prevention week.  

In 2019, with the coalition was ramping up its focus on preventing male suicides, a coalition member learned about headsupguys.org, the world’s leading men’s mental health resource.   A partnership with HeadsUpGuys was formed to work together to reduce male suicides and provide a resource to men that is accessible 24/7.  HeadsUpGuys was founded by Dr. John Ogrodniczuk. Josh Berray; Project Manager will be presenting on this resource in addition to discussing his collaboration with the Tri-county COPE coalition on their awareness campaign that began in November 2024 and continued into May 2025.

  • Objective 1 Learn how to start and continue to support a coalition in your community
  • Objective 2 Understand current local, county, state, and national data and how it can support the work you do in a coalition
  • Objective 3 Learn about an online resource called Heads Up Guys, and how it can provide support to your business's and companies to men and those who support men around men's mental health struggles

Heidi Pritzl, LCSW graduated with her Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from Hawaii Pacific University (HPU) in Honolulu, HI.  She currently works as a Social Worker/Psychotherapist  and Suicide Preventionist with Aspirus Koller Behavioral Health primary care and behavioral health teams.  She is trained in cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness/meditation practices to assist in treating her patients secondary pain. Heidi is also the co-lead for the Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Community Outreach Prevention Education (COPE) Coaltion. As a lead for this Tri-county coalition, Heidi works with her team to implement strategies to reduce suicides and beak stigma around mental health based on the data outcomes within her community and state. Heidi is also trained in suicide prevention with the QPR Institute in Seattle, WA, as a Master and Gatekeeper Trainer. Her goal has been to train as many individuals as possible to be able to recognize early warning signs and risk factors of suicide, so they are able to identify and provide support immediately to individuals who are at risk. Heidi shares, “I know my work will be done when people begin receiving cards, casseroles, and flowers for a recent diagnosis for mental health or after a hospital stay on a psychiatric inpatient unit.”

Rachael Cornelius, BSLA, CMA (AAMA) is a Certified Medical Assistant and currently works as the Community Health Educator for the Vilas County Public Health Department. Rachael also assists in co-leading the Northwoods Tri-County COPE Mental Health Coalition and is passionate about supporting those with mental health conditions and raising awareness about mental health in her community.

Josh Berray is the Project Manager for HeadsUpGuys. Since recovering from experiences with depression and attempted suicide in 2010, Josh has become a passionate advocate for mental health, volunteering and working in the area of mental health advocacy since 2012. Josh has been with HeadsUpGuys since 2014. Josh has had articles published by HuffPost, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), and the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA). He has also been interviewed by HuffPost, Global TV, Movember Radio, and has had his story and work featured by CBC News: The National.

1c. Belonging Matters: Fostering School Connection to Help Prevent Youth Suicide

Suicide prevention work is challenging and critical to the well-being of our students. What does the data say? What are best practices? What steps can schools take to help prevent suicide? Please join me to go beyond statistics, resources and programs for suicide prevention to explore how authentic connection and belonging form a significant piece of the puzzle of suicide prevention.

  • Objective 1 Explore suicide prevention best practices and data.
  • Objective 2 Understand the importance of BELONGING in helping to prevent youth suicide
  • Objective 3 Learn strategies and practices to help create belonging in our schools.

Jenny Holle, MS is an experienced educator with over 25 years of dedication to the field, having served as a school counselor and special education teacher. She brings a wealth of expertise to her role as the Regional Coordinator for CESAs 2, 3, and 6 at the Wisconsin Safe and Healthy Schools (WISH) Center. Beyond her professional endeavors, Jenny finds joy in her role as a spouse and parent of three children, and she enjoys the outdoors, music, quality time with loved ones, and volunteering with a local youth theater group and animal rescue.

2a. Suicidal Thoughts and Autism: One Family's Journey

Hunter is an autistic young adult. After high school, he got a job and thought everything was going okay. But autism, anxiety, and depression brought him to a point where he wanted his life to end. He wants to share how he got help & what he does today. His dad, Tim, talks about his point of view and will share thoughts on identifying suicide and mental issues in autistic youth. This presentation is a unique blend of lived experience (child and parent) and research/resources on autism and suicide. While autistic individuals may exhibit the "normal" warning signs of suicide ideation, there are ways in which neurodiverse individuals experience suicide ideation that may get missed. Interacting with a neurodiverse person who is experiencing suicidal ideation is more involved than with a neurotypical person. We hope to share our personal journey and what we have learned along the way. We will reference research and other presentations, but honestly, this is a new and growing field of research.

  • Objective 1 Participants will learn warnings signs that may be more prevalent for autistic individuals
  • Objective 2 Participants will review the current research and resource available around suicide and autism.
  • Objective 3 Participants will hear from an autistic self-advocate who struggles with suicidal ideation, anxiety, and depression.

Tim Markle is the Director of the Wisconsin Youth Health Transition Initiative, Outreach Program Manager for the Children's Resource Center-South, Transition Faculty for the Wisconsin Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities Training Program, and Training and Technical Assistance Lead for new grant (yet unnamed).

Hunter Markle is an autistic young adult who also has some mental health challenges. He is currently working part time. He loves D&D and heavy metal music! (Feel free to search for his Mental Health Play list on Spotify.) He enjoys sharing his experience and keeping mentally well. Hunter has presented at the UW Lacrosse Suicide Prevention Conference, National Federation of Families Conference, Children Come First Conference, Circles of Life Conference, the PATCH program, and has been on numerous panels.

2b. Silent Desperation: The Link Between Gambling, Financial Crisis, and Suicide Risk

Gambling addiction is often called "hidden in plain" because its devastating consequences (financial ruin, emotional distress, and increased suicide risk) frequently go unnoticed until a crisis occurs even as access to gambling continues to expand. This session will explore the intersection of gambling-related harms, financial crises, and suicide risk and provide insights into how gambling can escalate into severe mental health crises and impact on family members and loved ones. Attendees will learn about key warning signs, intervention strategies, and resources to better support individuals facing gambling-related distress.

  • Objective 1 Identify the relationship between problem gambling, financial instability, and increased suicide risk.
  • Objective 2 Learn to spot behavioral and emotional indicators of gambling-related financial crisis and suicidal ideation.
  • Objective 3 Develop effective approaches for crisis intervention, including screening tools, financial recovery resources, and suicide prevention strategies tailored to those experiencing gambling-related harm.

Andrew J. Schreier, ICS, CSAC, LPC, BACC, ICGC-II, is an Independent Clinical Supervisor, Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor, Board Approved Clinical Consultant, and International Certified Gambling Counselor - II.  He is the Director of Clinical Services in Wisconsin & Minnesota for Community Medical Services that provides medicated-assisted treatment for individuals with opioid use disorder.   Mr. Schreier also works at New Life Resources, Inc. as an independent clinician.  He presents about various topics related to substance use, mental health, gambling, clinical supervision, ethics, and various other topics to statewide and national audiences.  Mr. Schreier is the host of “Talking Addiction & Recovery” Podcast.

2c. Systems of Oppression & Emotions

The absence or dismissal of human emotions is an important, but often, unidentified piece in systems of oppression and a key component of the dehumanization process. Learn how reintegrating emotions into our own lives and connecting with others at the level of emotion is how systems change can happen.

  • Objective 1 Define systems of oppression (capitalism, white supremacy, patriarchy) and the impact each has on our emotions.
  • Objective 2 Understand through examples how the absence of emotion is a key component in systems of oppression and how the conditioning is internalized.
  • Objective 3 Understand how systems change and individual healing requires us to connect with our own emotions, as well as the emotions of others.

Karen Iverson Riggers, CPS, is a writer, entrepreneur, activist, advocate, trainer, and Mom. She is a lead trainer of Emotional CPR for the State of Wisconsin, co-creator of The Missing Piece: Emotional Health & Wellness curriculum, and co-creator of Listening to Trauma curriculum. She is a founding worker/owner of Ebb & Flow Connections Cooperative, a Wisconsin based worker owned cooperative that provides training, consultation, and listening spaces related to emotional health and wellness. Along with Lynn McLaughlin, she launched the Real Vibes Only podcast which talks about real life and emotions. She utilizes her own lived experience in the mental health system to advocate for change and create community spaces where people feel seen, heard, and valued, just as they are. Karen lives in Appleton with her partner Eric and their three children Nick, Quinn, and Ari.

Lynn McLaughlin, CPS, is an entrepreneur, author, peer, trainer, and consultant. Her life experience, education, and training in emotional wellness, trauma, and peer support make her an exceptional leader, consultant and trainer. Lynn has a vibrant passion for life and deep empathy for the stories of others, which shows up in all facets of her work. She is a lead trainer of Emotional CPR for the State of Wisconsin, co-creator of The Missing Piece: Emotional Health & Wellness curriculum, and co-creator of Listening to Trauma curriculum. She is a founding worker/owner of Ebb & Flow Connections Cooperative, a Wisconsin based worker owned cooperative that provides training, consultation, and listening spaces related to emotional health and wellness. Along with Karen Iverson Riggers, she launched the Real Vibes Only podcast which talks about real life and emotions. Lynn is mom to her adult daughter Emma who lives in Salt Lake City, Utah. She lives in Neenah with her pup Esther.

May 15, 2025

You will not need to register for a specific session. You may attend whichever session you wish on the day of the conference.

Breakout Session 3 - 10:15 -11:30 am CT

3a. Firearms and Crisis Lines: Data Trends, Intervention Strategies, and Resource Integration

3b. The Intersection of Suicide Prevention Laws, Ethics, and Court Cases

3c. Bridge to Heal: Connection Centered Postvention Support

Breakout Session 4 - 12:00 -1:15 pm CT

4a. Recovery Stories: How One Person Can Make a Difference in Stigma Reduction and Health Equity

4b. Youth Suicide Prevention through School-Based Mentorship Programs

4c. Building Beloved Community: Addressing Religious Misinformation and Its Impact on Trans Community

3a. Firearms and Crisis Lines: Data Trends, Intervention Strategies, and Resource Integration

This presentation will delve into the critical intersection of suicide and firearm data, emphasizing the urgent need for intervention. We will begin by examining statistical trends and patterns in firearm-related suicides, highlighting the disproportionate impact on specific demographics. We will then discuss the pivotal role of the Wisconsin 988 Lifeline, a vital resource in crisis intervention. We will explore how the Wisconsin 988 Lifeline, and other crisis lifelines can effectively intervene in potential violence situations involving firearms, providing immediate support and connections to necessary resources. 

Furthermore, we will introduce a comprehensive strategy library designed for crisis lines and developed through a collaboration between evaluators and content experts. This library offers a robust framework for crisis lines to prevent violence by firearms, featuring evidence-based strategies, best practices, and actionable guidelines. Attendees will gain insights into the implementation of these strategies, fostering a collaborative and multi-sector approach to crisis intervention and suicide prevention.

By the end of the presentation, participants will be equipped with a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding firearm-related violence and the critical interventions needed to address this public health and social justice issue. They will be able to add practical tools and strategies to their toolkit to enhance their efforts in preventing violence by firearms.

  • Objective 1 Participants will be able to learn about suicide and firearm data trends.
  • Objective 2 Participants will be able describe the importance of multi-sector collaboration in firearm violence prevention, including the role of crisis lines
  • Objective 3 Participants will be able to navigate the strategy library to learn the importance of implementing strategies within various crisis intervention frameworks and how to foster collaboration among different agencies and organizations to create a cohesive approach to suicide prevention

Janae Goodrich, MA is an Evaluation Researcher and Principal Investigator with the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute's Evaluation and Engaged Research Group. In this role, she is the Co-Principal Investigator of the evaluation of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline in Wisconsin, where she oversees the evaluation and reporting needs for 988 in Wisconsin. Janae has worked at the Institute for over 15 years and her work focuses on evaluation for program improvement of behavioral health initiatives and initiatives seeking to divert individuals with behavioral health needs from the criminal justice system.

Erin Skalitzky, MPH, is an Evaluation Researcher and Principal Investigator with the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute's Evaluation and Engaged Research Group. At the Institute, Erin evaluates mental health, substance use, and crisis intervention programs. In this role, she is the Co-Principal Investigator of the evaluation of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline in Wisconsin and the State Crisis Intervention Program research project focusing on 988 and firearm violence prevention. She is also a project manager for the Wisconsin State Opioid Response project’s data collection initiatives, working closely with Wisconsin agencies in providing substance use treatment and recovery services.

Alisa Pykett, MSW, PhD, is an Action Researcher and Evaluator with the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute’s Engaged Research and Evaluation Group. As a community-based researcher and evaluator, she often collaborates with community organizations and schools in her work. She is a mixed methods researcher, skilled in qualitative and collaborative methods, with content expertise in youth and young adult civic development and leadership programs and leadership programs.

3b. The Intersection of Suicide Prevention Laws, Ethics, and Court Cases

This presentation will explore key state statutes related to suicide prevention, equipping participants with the knowledge, best practices derived from court cases for effectively responding to suicide ideation. Additionally, participants will identify various resources that support suicide prevention efforts while ensuring compliance with state laws. The session aims to empower individuals with the tools and knowledge to make informed decisions and improve response strategies.

  • Objective 1 Participants will be able to learn the existing Wisconsin state statutes related to suicide prevention
  • Objective 2 Participants will be able to use best practices resulting from court cases for responding to suicide ideation
  • Objective 3 Participants will identify multiple resources to promote suicide prevention and adhere to WI state statute.

Andrea Donegan, MS is the School Counseling Consultant at the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction providing coaching, technical assistance, consultation and resource development at the local, regional, and state level on social-emotional learning, suicide prevention, college and career readiness, school mental health  and comprehensive school counseling programs with a focus on the intersection of and alignment of these systems.  Andrea served as a school counselor for 26 years at the elementary, middle, and intermediate levels. She holds administrative licenses for principal, Director of Instruction, and Director of Pupil Services/Special Education, along with being a certified peer mediator through NACM.

3c. Bridge to Heal: Connection Centered Postvention Support

The "Bridge to Heal" training presentation is a connection-centered suicide postvention initiative designed to support individuals and communities affected by suicide loss. The presentation addresses the psychological and social impact of suicide, emphasizing the importance of compassionate communication, stigma reduction, and resource accessibility. By incorporating evidence-based approaches, this initiative aims to foster resilience and healing among suicide loss survivors. Key components include myth-busting, practical support strategies, and a public health model for bereavement, ensuring a comprehensive and inclusive framework for postvention care.

Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the prevalence and impact of suicide loss, highlighting risk factors and mental health challenges associated with suicide bereavement. Information shared will also address misconceptions about suicide loss and promote compassionate, nonjudgmental interactions. Participants will be equipped with effective language and supportive responses when engaging with suicide loss survivors. With opportunities to practice supportive conversations and hear directly from suicide loss survivors, participants will join the movement to create a supportive community where suicide loss survivors can process their grief and rebuild meaningful connections.

  • Objective 1 Attendees will increase their awareness on the prevalence and impact of suicide loss, including risk factors and misconceptions about suicide loss.
  • Objective 2 Attendees will identify components of a public health model of suicide bereavement.
  • Objective 3 Attendees will practice supportive responses when engaging with suicide loss survivors.

Tricia Monroe, MEd, MA, MCHES serves as the Suicide Postvention Program Manager within the Division of Suicide Research and Healing in the Comprehensive Injury Center at the Medical College of Wisconsin. She conducts active outreach to survivors of suicide loss within Milwaukee County, identifying best practices for supporting individuals after a loss and developing a community-wide response that considers cultural and linguistic needs. Tricia earned a Master’s in Health Education and Promotion from East Carolina University and is a Certified Health Education Specialist. Her work has included research related to health inequities, chronic illnesses, school based mental health programming, and suicide prevention. She has training in Mental Health First Aid and received Grief Support Specialist training from University of Wisconsin Madison. Her research and professional interests include postvention practices within a social justice framework, grief experiences after a suicide loss across racial and ethnic populations, and community empowerment through collaborative academic partnerships.

Neal Davis, BA is a dedicated Community Program Coordinator at the Medical College of Wisconsin, specializing in outreach initiatives for suicide survivors in Milwaukee County. With a B.A. Communication degree from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, he brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for empowering younger generations to create positive change in their communities. Driven by a deep commitment to mental health advocacy and community engagement, Neal has been trained in Mental Health First Aid, and is also a facilitator for “Talk Saves Lives” with the American Foundation of Suicide Prevention. Neal has a strong belief in the power of community and is dedicated to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health issues and fostering a culture of empathy, understanding and support. He actively seeks ways to connect with communities and partners that are traditionally not considered in mental health programming. He aims to inspire others to join the movement towards a healthier, more compassionate society.

4a. Recovery Stories: How One Person Can Make a Difference in Stigma Reduction and Health Equity

This presentation will explore the profound effects of stigma on health equity and patient outcomes. Through compelling recovery stories, it will highlight how individual actions can have a significant effect on the ability to increase or reduce stigma and improve health equity. Attendees will gain insights into how patient experiences influence engagement in both behavioral and physical healthcare and will be equipped to apply these learnings in onboarding and training of current staff.

  • Objective 1 Discuss the impact of stigma on health equity and health outcomes.
  • Objective 2 Understand the impacts of patient experience on engagement in behavioral and physical healthcare.
  • Objective 3 Utilize today’s learnings in onboarding and training of current staff.

Renee Sutkay, CSW, MS, LPC is a Quality Program Manager at the Wisconsin Collaborative for Healthcare Quality. Throughout her career, Renee has been an advocate for increasing access to whole person healthcare for underserved populations. She works directly with health systems across the state to impact and improve health disparities, behavioral health care and access, and health outcomes. Renee obtained her bachelor’s degree in social work from Edgewood College in Madison and master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from UW-Madison. Previously, Renee spent 16 years working in community mental health.

4b. Youth Suicide Prevention through School-Based Mentorship Programs

This presentation will discuss the inevitable need for suicide prevention procedures when working with youth. Highlighting the relationship between school connectedness and suicide, learn about Elevate's experience in identifying, assessing, and supporting at-risk youth within their evidence-based mentorship program for middle and high school students. Gain insight into methods used for empowering staff with the confidence to talk about suicide and overcoming challenges of stigma, capacity, and collaboration.

  • Objective 1 Participants will recognize the relationship between school connectedness and suicide.
  • Objective 2 Participants will learn about various evidence-based trainings, screening tools, and safety plans that can be utilized to support their suicide prevention and intervention efforts.
  • Objective 3 Participants will be able to understand strategies for integrating suicide prevention into already established processes and programming.

Kayla Doege, BS serves as Elevate's youth services representative on the agency's Zero Suicide Team and has worked in the field of youth mental health for three years now, implementing evidence-based prevention and early-intervention programs within Washington and Waukesha counties. In launching these new programs into surrounding schools, Kayla recognized the need for and importance of having suicide prevention procedures in place to best support the youth and families they serve. From there, Kayla developed written suicide prevention procedures for each of Elevate's seven youth programs and became a certified QPR Gatekeeper Instructor, aspiring to empower community partners with accessible tools to stop suicide.

4c. Building Beloved Community: Addressing Religious Misinformation and Its Impact on Trans Community

Spirituality can often be a protective factor and dimension of emotional well-being for those who live with thoughts of suicide. But what happens when faith communities and religious institutions become a source of harm? In the current political climate in the United States, Christian Nationalism and related religious worldviews contribute to an increasingly hostile atmosphere towards members of the queer and trans community. Drawing from lived experience and theological scholarship, this workshop will offer tools for countering damaging misinformation and explore what possibilities exist for more welcoming and inclusive expressions of spirituality.

  • Objective 1 Participants will learn a working definition of Christian nationalism and its relevance to policy and discourse that negatively impact the well-being of queer, trans, and other historically excluded communities.
  • Objective 2 Participants will be offered accurate information on the lives of trans and gender expansive people based on research and lived experience.
  • Objective 3 Participants will explore theological perspectives that provide a more affirming worldview of trans and gender expansive people.

Vic Welle, MTS, is a genderqueer psychiatric survivor, activist, and peer support trainer. Vic’s peer support experience includes working in peer run respites and facilitating Intentional Peer Support trainings nationally and internationally. Vic also brings over 25 years of experience in grassroots activism and spirituality-grounded social change, including formal theological study at Loyola University Chicago and the Jesuit School of Theology of Santa Clara University. Vic can often be found wandering art galleries, listening to live music, and spending time next to water.

May 16, 2025

You will not need to register for a specific session. You may attend whichever session you wish on the day of the conference.

Breakout Session 5 -  8:45 am - 10:00 am CT

5a. What Happens After the Training? Exploring the Multifaceted End User Experience with Suicide Prevention Efforts for Military & Veteran Populations

5b. Peer Support Groups: Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How?

5c. Suicide Prevention at Work: At-Risk Occupations and Workplace Prevention Strategies

Breakout Session 6 - 10:15 am - 11:30 am CT

6a. Navigating Mental Health & Suicide Prevention in the Digital Age: A Young Adult’s Perspective

6b. Trap Therapy: A Solution to the Emerging Mental Health Needs of Blacks and Other Minorities

6c. Building Suicide-Safer Access Clinics: Implementing Zero Suicide for Better Care

5a. What Happens After the Training? Exploring the Multifaceted End User Experience with  Suicide Prevention Efforts for Military and Veteran Populations

We plan to review suicide factors for the military and veteran population, integrating research with shared clinicians’ and veterans’ experiences. This presentation will provide the opportunity to discuss what is current regarding military and veteran suicide, both in literature and in practice. We plan to start exploring some of the real-life barriers that occur when seeking or providing services and in sharing information. From an end user perspective, we wish to map out various stakeholders in suicide prevention efforts, specific to the military and veteran population. We shall focus on evaluating the end user experience at different levels to determine what works, and where there are gaps in efficacy. We hope our discussion can help provide a fuller picture and we invite members of the audience to participate.

  • Objective 1 Identify at least five risk factors increasing the risk of suicide specific to the military and veteran population.
  • Objective 2 Improve the understanding of at least three challenges inherent in transitioning from military service to civilian life.
  • Objective 3 Explore the efficacy of different of levels of training on suicide for different end users.

Dr. Tamara Morris, Psy.D. is a licensed Psychologist, Assistant Professor, and Director of Training with the Building Resiliency through Action for Veterans and First Responders (BRAVE) Program at the Medical College of Wisconsin.  She is a member of the Wisconsin Psychological Association, American Psychological Association (DIV 40 & 56), and serves as part of the APA Advocacy Coordinating Committee.  Dr. Morris earned her doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Wisconsin School of Professional Psychology after serving in the U.S. Army. Her doctoral internship was completed at the Cheyenne VAMC where she later worked as staff in the specialty and trauma clinics, as well as having served as the Director of Training for the psychology internship program. Dr. Morris specializes in working with Veterans from all eras of service and in treating complex trauma.

Chris Clark, LCSW, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who provides individual and group therapy at BRAVE. Individually, Chris provides trauma-informed Cognitive Processing Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and short-term psychodynamic therapy, emphasizing somatic awareness in the treatment of anxiety and relational issues. He is also developing his skills in the technique of Brainspotting to process traumatic experiences. Chris co-leads educational groups such as Military Identity, Survival skills, Mindfulness, Healthy Sleep and Healthy Relationships. He also co-leads the new Processing group. Chris also provides clinical supervision for Chad, the team’s recent graduate in Social Work, toward his State Licensure and brings many years of therapeutic experience to the team.

Mr. Mark Hufen, LPC, SAC, is a licensed Professional Counselor and Substance Abuse Counselor with the Building Resiliency through Action for Veterans and First Responders (BRAVE) Program at the Medical College of Wisconsin. He earned his master's degree in clinical Pastoral Counseling from Loyola University and is completing his Doctorate in Behavioral Health from Freed-Hardeman University. Mr. Hufen is a Navy Veteran who served with Marine Corps Infantry. He specializes in working with Veterans from all eras of service, including special forces, first responders, treating complex trauma, religious and cult-based trauma, survivors of torture, and couples' work.

5b. Peer Support Groups: Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How?

Eight years ago, Sammie’s future was not so bright. After winning the battle against suicide, she now uses her lived experience as a Certified Peer Specialist. Sammie works for Midstate Independent Living Choices and runs ROCC Point, a drop-in center for adults with mental health and substance use challenges, as well as provides CCS services to youth in her community. Sammie facilitates a Peer Support Group every weekday at ROCC Point. In addition, she co-facilitates a Peer Support Group through NAMI and began a Peer Support Group at the inpatient mental health unit at Aspirus in Stevens Point. Sammie has facilitated over 550 Peer Support Groups to date and will share her acquired knowledge and enthusiasm. She will begin her presentation with a personal story about her lived experience and will follow-up with information and statistics about peer support. Different styles of Peer Support Groups will be demonstrated and the opportunity to participate in a trial Peer Support Group will be offered. An in-depth open discussion will conclude the session. You will walk away with a feeling of renewed hope and empowerment, equipped with the knowledge and confidence to make real change in your community.

  • Objective 1 Participants will understand the role of a Peer Support Specialist and its importance in our community.
  • Objective 2 Participants will learn how Peer Support Groups can impact our friends, family, coworkers, and neighbors.
  • Objective 3 Participants will gain the knowledge to facilitate a Peer Support Group of their choosing.

Samantha Sackmann, CPS. "Peer support saved my life. In fact, I am far beyond surviving and am now thriving because of it," Samantha states. Samantha is a Certified Peer Specialist at ROCC Point, a recovery center for adults with mental health and substance use challenges. Samantha is CCS certified and provides peer support for individuals in the community through her employer, Midstate Independent Living Choices. In addition, Samantha is a NAMI Peer Support Group Facilitator. She has also run peer support groups at the inpatient mental health unit at Aspirus hospital. Samantha has been on two lived experience panels and wants more! Sharing the power of peer support is a passion that drives her. A passion that has led her to presenting. Suicide is not a new or scary notion to Samantha. Years of uncontrollable thoughts and self-harming behavior were a constant battle. Hospital stays have ranged from 72 hours to five months. Mental health inpatient unit locations have ranged across the state. Through her hospitalizations, Samantha has learned what is beneficial for herself as well as witnessed what was beneficial for others and applies that knowledge to her daily duties in her occupation. Having multiple mental health diagnosis of Bipolar 1 Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), as well as dealing with suicidality beginning at age 13, Samantha has decades of lived experience. Now far along on the road of recovery, Samantha is a true mental health warrior in both her personal and professional lives.

5c. Suicide Prevention at Work: At-Risk Occupations and Workplace Prevention Strategies

Our working lives can contribute positively or negatively to mental health. The physical, economic and emotional stresses of some jobs raise can raise such workers' suicide risks, while supportive and sustainable work environments can be protective. In this session, we'll present suicide rates for different industries and occupations in Wisconsin. We'll then discuss specific risk and protective factors at work and provide examples of how employers can promote suicide prevention at work.

  • Objective 1 Learn which jobs and industries have higher suicide rates
  • Objective 2 Understand how work can contribute to suicide risk and prevention
  • Objective 3 Gain familiarity with workplace suicide prevention tools

Kate McCoy, PhD, oversees the Occupational Health and Safety Surveillance Program at the Wisconsin Dept. of Health Services, funded through the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Wisconsin's program uses data science and health education strategies to identify work-related health risks for Wisconsin workers and to promote workplace safety and health. She currently serves as co-chair of the Occupational Health Subcommittee for the Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists (CSTE) and co-leads a pilot project on dairy worker mental health in Wisconsin. She previously worked for the Office of Children's Mental Health and oversaw Wisconsin's Youth Risk Behavior Survey. She is author or co-author of a number of academic articles and reports related to physical and mental health topics.

Paul D. Creswell, PhD, is the Senior Epidemiologist for the Occupational Health and Safety Surveillance Program at the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. Dr. Creswell’s recent work focuses on occupational health surveillance of conditions such as COVID-19, asbestosis, and legionellosis. He has over 20 years of experience in public health and has worked on a variety of subjects including carbon monoxide poisoning, alcohol-related mortality, climate effects on workers, cancer health disparities, and tobacco control.

6a. Navigating Mental Health & Suicide Prevention in the Digital Age: A Young Adult’s Perspective

The digital era has transformed the way young people connect, communicate, and seek help, but it has also amplified challenges related to mental health and suicide prevention. Social media can be both a lifeline and a source of distress for adolescents, contributing to rising rates of anxiety, depression, and suicidality. This presentation will explore real statistics and studies on the impact of digital media on youth mental health, alongside a firsthand perspective on navigating these challenges. Catherine Smith, a longtime volunteer, advocate, and Youth-Centered Awareness and Education (YCAE) Regional Project Coordinator for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), will share insights from her work facilitating youth-centered mental health and suicide prevention programs across Wisconsin and the Southeast. With a lived experience of childhood-related mental health conditions and the profound impact of losing her best friend to suicide, Catherine’s story underscores the power of resilience and proactive support. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how social media influences youth mental health and learn strategies to better support those at risk.

  • Objective 1 Understand the direct effects of digital media on adolescent mental health and suicidality through current research and statistics.
  • Objective 2 Learn strategies for supporting youth mental health in a digital landscape, including early intervention and digital literacy.
  • Objective 3 Explore how organizations like NAMI provide critical education and advocacy through youth-centered programs.

Catherine Smith, born and raised in Wisconsin’s Dairyland from a family of century farmers, is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater with a BA in Political Science and a Paralegal Certificate. In 2021, she moved to Charleston, SC, to pursue her Juris Doctor degree at Charleston School of Law. A dedicated volunteer and participant in the Miss America Organization, Catherine has served with NAMI since 2017 and now leads as YCAE Regional Coordinator. After the loss of her best friend to suicide in 2015, her mission is fueled by hope and resilience, honoring his legacy and inspiring others to find light in the heartbreak of loss. She lives by the mantra, “The epic story of tomorrow cannot continue if it ends today.”

6b. Trap Therapy: A Solution to the Emerging Mental Health Needs of Blacks and Other Minorities

The pandemic has spotlighted mental health, but not all conversations offer hope or inclusive solutions. Mental health needs among Black communities have risen disproportionately, alongside increased stigma and shame. Barriers such as poverty, racial discrimination, and systemic inequalities prevent many from seeking help, with guilt and stigma further compounding the issue. In response, Trap Therapy emerged as a solution.

  • Objective 1 Upon completion of Trap Therapy attendees will articulate the barriers that inhibit minorities from seeing mental health treatment.
  • Objective 2 Upon completion of Trap Therapy attendees will verbalize the effectiveness of Music Therapy.
  • Objective 3 At the conclusion of the training session, attendees will identify evidence-based practices within Trap Therapy.

Tarsha Wiggins, LCSW, CADC, is the founder of Speak Wellness Behavioral Health Consulting, LLC, known as Your Trap Therapist, and the designated therapist for Hot 105.7. With over 15 years in behavioral health, she specializes in fostering open, impactful conversations about emotional wellness. Tarsha earned her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2009 and later became a certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor through Aurora University in 2012. She began her career in Child Protective Services before transitioning into clinical roles, working across inpatient, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and individual therapy settings. Having witnessed the effects of untreated mental illness—especially in marginalized communities—Tarsha launched a mission in May 2021 to combat mental health stigma among communities of color. Through strategic partnerships, social media advocacy, and group-based psychoeducation, she promotes emotional wellness and accessibility to mental health resources. Her innovative approach, Trap Therapy, blends music with psychoeducation to create culturally relevant, engaging, and transformative mental health discussions. Tarsha is dedicated to breaking barriers and empowering individuals to prioritize their mental well-being.

6c. Building Suicide-Safer Access Clinics: Implementing Zero Suicide for Better Care

This session will provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of Zero Suicide through exploration of three crisis clinics that focus on serving underserved populations and providing suicide safer care.  Using data, attendees will gain insights into the significant impact that implementing Zero Suicide can have on crisis care, improving client outcomes and system benefits. Additionally, the presentation will explore the importance of assessing an organization's readiness for change, securing buy-in for sustainability, and identifying common barriers to implementation through evaluation of Access Clinic Zero Suicide implementation. Participants will leave with practical strategies for applying Zero Suicide in their own settings, fostering a culture of suicide safer care, and building long-term success in suicide prevention efforts.

  • Objective 1 Participants will be able to identify the 7 elements of ZS and how they are actively applied in a clinical setting.
  • Objective 2 Through data, participants will be able to identify the impact Zero Suicide implementation can have in crisis care.
  • Objective 3 Participants will learn about the importance of assessing readiness for change, buy in for sustainability and identifying barriers to implementation.

Clare Martell, MPH, is a public health professional with a passion for suicide prevention and health equity. She is currently the Suicide Prevention Administrative Coordinator for Milwaukee County Behavioral Health Services, where she helps support implementation of Zero Suicide and coordinates community suicide prevention efforts. She serves as a Steering Committee member for Prevent Suicide of Greater Milwaukee and Prevent Suicide Wisconsin. Clare is a member of the Milwaukee Suicide Review Commission and Milwaukee Elder Fatality Review Workgroup. Clare also has experience working on suicide prevention with rural and Tribal communities. She found her passion for suicide prevention while working with Minnesota Department of Agriculture and Minnesota Department of Health as a research assistant working on a project to better understand the impact of farm related stress on spouses and children of farmers. Clare’s goal for the work is to promote suicide prevention thought a health equity lens.

Andrea Nauer Waldschmidt, LPC, serves as the Psychiatric Crisis Services Coordinator for Milwaukee County, where she has dedicated her career to crisis services across multiple counties and states. With a strong background in counseling, Andrea brings valuable expertise in mental health, crisis intervention, and suicide prevention. Andrea is active as; Wisconsin Zero Suicide Faculty, Prevent Suicide Wisconsin Steering Committee, the Milwaukee County Suicide Death Review Team, the Child Death Investigation Review Team, and the Community Advisory Board for the Medical College of Wisconsin Division of Suicide Research and Healing. She also contributes to the Southeast Wisconsin Veteran Suicide Prevention Taskforce and Prevent Suicide of Greater Milwaukee. A passionate advocate for mental health, suicide prevention, and client rights, Andrea has worked tirelessly to increase community awareness through gatekeeper trainings and specialized suicide screening trainings. She has presented at local and statewide Crisis Intervention Trainings for law enforcement, equipping professionals with the tools to effectively address mental health crises.  Andrea’s mission is to create a world where every individual feels valued, supported, and empowered with the resources needed to navigate crises and overcome challenges.