Conference Schedule

PRE-CONFERENCE WORKSHOPS

Thursday, February 26th

The Journey of Grief: Some Beatitudes for Better Bereavement

A. JOSEPH BAROODY JR., D.MIN., LPC

This workshop is designed to offer practical guidance for caregivers who have a limited amount of time to help someone who is facing the death of a loved one. You may be a nurse, chaplain, social worker who has a few minutes to a few hours to help family members begin the journey of grief. It is also of value to counselors and psychotherapists who are helping someone make the journey of grief. These guidelines are presented in the form of beatitudes.

Faith, Community, and Mental Health

E. NICOLE QUICK, LPCS
School Based Therapist, Florence 1 Schools

Participants will be able to define, understand and make the connection between mental health, spirituality, and self acceptance. This workshop will provide a step by step process for developing self-acceptance practice using practical
biblical tools..

Protecting Our Sacred Spaces: Safety & Security (no ceu)

REV. KELVIN WASHINGTON
Retired Police Chief, and former Sheriff
and United States Marshal

Join us for a practical, hands-on workshop designed to help faith leaders, staff, and volunteers strengthen safety in their places of worship. Together, we’ll cover how to create safe spaces, develop an active shooter response plan, recognize suspicious behavior, design fast exit routes, conduct effective safety drills, and assess the overall security of your facility. Participants will leave with tools, strategies, and resources to build confidence and preparedness— ensuring that their congregations remain safe, welcoming, and resilient.

Funding the Mission: Essentials of Grant Writing, Unlock the Secrets to Successful Grant Writing!

JUDY RICHBURG, MPA
KAY TAYLOR HIGHTOWER, ESQ.

Join us for a hands-on workshop where you’ll learn the step-by-step process of crafting winning proposals, from writing powerful narratives to building effective budgets. Discover how to identify the right funders, tailor your proposals to their priorities, and walk away with practical tools to strengthen your grant writing success.

Collaborative Community Mental Health

DR. EBONY GAFFNEY, MD, PHD, MBA
Executive and Medical Director
Spartanburg Area Mental Health Center

The gap in collaborative community mental health refers to the disconnects or shortcomings that prevent effective, coordinated care among various stakeholders involved in supporting mental health at the community level. This workshop will identify common gaps in collaboration and discuss evidence-based strategies for addressing those gaps.

Faith, Healing, and Forgiveness After Trauma (no ceu)

REV. SHARON RISHER
BRANDON RISHER
CLARISSA WHALEY

Grounded in the power of faith, this workshop explores how spiritual practices help us navigate trauma, find strength in forgiveness, and embrace the healing journey. Honoring the legacy of the Emanuel Nine, participants will reflect on
the role of prayer, and community in overcoming grief and pain. Together, we will learn how faith can inspire self-care, resilience, and compassion, equipping us to heal personally and to support one another in building stronger, more faithful communities.

CONFERENCE WORKSHOPS

Friday, February 27th

Registration Opens

Opening Plenary

CATHERINE O. DURHAM, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, FAAN
Dean, MUSC College of Nursing

CONCURRENT WORKSHOPS

Trauma and the Brain: How Play Therapy Helps Clients Recover

NIKOLE JIGGETTS, LCSW, LCSW-C RPT-S, CTS
Replay Counseling Center, LLCl

Trauma has been defined as terror, feeling unsafe and not in control of the situation, and disruptions in early attachment can also be a trauma a person experiences. Many feel that what they have experienced is “normal” and do not know that processing trauma is essential and not to be ignored. This training follows the R.E.A.C.H. and Connect* technique, allowing workers to have a grasp of individuals with unprocessed memories resulting in anger and disruptive action.

Ethics In Technology & Social Media In The Helping Profession

BARBARA MELTON, M.ED., LPC/S, LAC/S, NCC, MAC, CS

Mental Health technology has the capacity to greatly improve the lives of our clients, but also can raise ethical concerns, including privacy, data security, and complacency or dependence on using devices rather than appear in person for services. Some services using AI technology can be used as a substitute for human interaction and empathy. In this workshop, we will discuss limitations of technology and how we can use it as a tool to enhance rather than replace human connection and support.

From Isolation to Inclusion: Mental Health Strategies for Rural and Underserved Populations

AMANDA NICOLE STOVER, MPH, PHD

Rural communities face unique mental health challenges, including limited access to care, stigma, and cultural barriers. This workshop explores the intersection of rural mental health and cultural competence, offering practical strategies for service providers, community leaders, and advocates.

Unity in the Interfaith Community: Opportunities for Collaboration (no ceu)

PANEL MODERATOR: HOLLI EMORE
Chair Interfaith Partners of South Carolina
PANELISTS:
SISTER PAMELA SMITH, SS.C.M., PH.D.
JONATHAN LEADER, PH.D.
ZARA RABNAWAZ
Join us for an engaging workshop about bringing together diverse faith traditions to foster understanding, respect, and collaboration. Participants will learn how Judaism, Catholicism, Islam, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and other of the many spiritualities found in S.C. can come together around the shared values that connect us. Through dialogue, stories, and group activities, the workshop will highlight how interfaith partnerships strengthen our communities, build bridges across differences, and inspire collective action for the common good.

PRESIDENT’S LUNCHEON

SPEAKER: EDWARD SIMMER, MD, MPH, DLFAPA
Director, South Carolina Department of Public Health

CONCURRENT WORKSHOPS

Supporting Students Through Trauma:
A Resilience-Based Approach to School Counseling

BRANDEE APPLING, PHD, LPC, NCC, ACS, CPCS
University of Georgia

In this session, participants will explore trauma-informed approaches and practical strategies to support students who have experienced adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) or other forms of trauma. Grounded in research and best practices, this session will focus on creating safe and supportive school environments that foster resilience and enhance academic success for students. Attendees will gain insight into the psychological and behavioral impacts of trauma, identify different types of trauma exposure and the various types of trauma and learn how to apply trauma-sensitive interventions, and develop skills to promote healing and growth in their school communities. In addition, they will have a better understanding of how to support students with a trauma history
through a strengths-based perspective and develop support plans that are resilience-focused.

Social Work Ethics in 2026

TERI BROWNE, PHD, MSW
Dean and Professor, College of Social Work University of South Carolina

This workshop will discuss and identify emerging ethical gaps in social work practice related to technology, equity, and access. We will analyze the implications of systemic access, interdisciplinary teamwork, and data-driven practice on ethical decision-making. Attendees will be able to apply principles from the NASW Code of Ethics to contemporary dilemmas.

Unseen Bars: The Overlapping Chains of Intimate Partner Violence and Incarceration

DEVIN L. RANDOLPH, PH.D.
Assistant Professor at the University of South Carolina
Founding Director of Environmental and Social Justice at Voorhees University
NAKISHA S. RANDOLPH, LMFT.
Trauma Recovery Therapist at the Veterans Affairs
Founder of Anthropos Counseling and Consulting, LLC

This session explores the complex and often overlooked connections between intimate partner violence (IPV) and incarceration. It aims to uncover the shared social, psychological, and structural factors that contribute to these interconnected cycles, including trauma, poverty, and systemic inequities. The session will highlight trauma-informed approaches, restorative justice, and community-based support systems as critical pathways to breaking these cycles.

Love Your Neighbor—Report Hate, Protect Community (no ceu)

JONATHAN LEADER, PH.D.
University of South Carolina

This workshop will provide faith leaders, staff, and volunteers with the knowledge and tools needed to recognize,document, and respond to hate crimes targeting places of worship. Participants will learn about the rising trends in antisemitism, racism, and other hate-motivated incidents, and explore practical strategies for reporting attacks, enhancing security, and building resilient, safe communities. Through discussion, case studies, and hands-on guidance, attendees will leave equipped to protect their congregations, foster awareness, and strengthen collaboration across faith communities.

CONCURRENT WORKSHOPS

Can We Talk: A Community Focused Conversation About
The Mental Health Care of Individuals from
Marginalized Populations

MODERATOR: DR. ASA BRIGGS, DNP
Briggs Psychiatry and Behavioral Health
TERRANCE WELLS, PHD
Family Support Services, LLC
CATHERINE O. DURHAM, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, FAAN
Dean, MUSC College of Nursing
SONYIA RICHARDSON, PH.D., L.C.S.W.
Assistant Professor, School of Social Work and Department of Psychiatry
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

In this session, Dr. Asa T. Briggs and his panel will explore the impact of systemic barriers, cultural stigma, and limited access to care on marginalized populations. Participants will be invited to reflect on how pain, vulnerability, and shared experience can be used as pathways to connection and resilience. Together, we will consider practical steps toward building equity in mental health care and fostering a culture of openness, transparency, and hope.

Unseen Divides: The Cost of Mistrust in Teamwork Problem Solving

DR. WALTER SHAWN MCDANIELS
Associate Professor, Benedict College

This presentation explores how a multi-disciplinary group navigates internal dynamics while addressing the sensitive topic of race-sensitive law enforcement training. Comprising members from law enforcement, psychology, social work, academia, faith-based communities, and advocacy, the group’s members’ experiences were examined through an in-depth thematic analysis of interviews, informed by a descriptive qualitative approach. Let’s explore the why behind teamwork failure.

CONFERENCE WORKSHOPS

Saturday, February 28th

CONCURRENT WORKSHOPS

Kratom In Rural Communities

DR. HELENE GUESS-GOLDSMITH, ED.D, LPC, LPC/S, MAC
SC Vocational Rehabilitation Palmetto Center

Kratom is legal, accessible, and often misunderstood; especially in South Carolina’s rural communities where mental health resources and inpatient treatment services are limited and misinformation spreads quickly. This workshop will explore the hidden epidemic of Kratom addiction and the urgent need for inpatient and outpatient treatment in areas that are often overlooked.

Shared Priorities, Shared Progress: Driving Collective
Impact in the State Health Improvement Plan

KOBRA EGHTEDARY, PHD
Director, State Health Improvement Office, Health Strategy & External Affairs
S.C. Department of Public Health
FARREN ALLEN, LMSW, MP
State Health Improvement Office
S.C. Department of Public Health

This interactive workshop will introduce participants to the State Health Improvement Plan (SHIP), a five-year strategic plan that brings together partners across the state to improve population health and well-being. Through practical examples and interactive discussion, attendees will leave with tools and inspiration to integrate SHIP priorities and RBA practices into their own work, supporting more connected, responsive efforts across health, human services, education, and other sectors that influence population well-being.

Addressing Barriers to Mental Health Care for South Carolina’s Aging Population

ANCHALEE PRICE, LMFT-A, LPC, CPT
Psychotherapist

This solution-focused workshop explores the unique challenges older adults in South Carolina face in accessing mental health care. Participants will learn how to identify barriers such as stigma, financial limitations, and therapist training gaps—and discover practical strategies to support emotional wellness and resilience in older adults.

CONCURRENT WORKSHOPS

ADHD: A Need for Family Focused Treatment

RIENA KAIN, LISW-CP, LSCSW, ADHD-CCSP

This workshop will discuss the need for family-based approach to treatment and highlight some potential ethical concerns around treatment. Attendees will also be provided an overview of ADHD DX and executive functioning skills.

Healing in Hostile Times: Culturally Responsive Interventions for Race-Based Trauma in the African American Community

JANELLE RENEE ROBINSON, PH.D., LPC-S (SC), NCC
Clinical Training Director/Core Faculty
The Family Institute at Northwestern University

The Wake: Supporting Clients and Ourselves Through Suicidality and Suicide Loss

KAREN ANDREA FLYNN, LMSW, MSW
Ph.D. Student, College of Social Work
University of South Carolina

A workshop designed to deepen clinical insight, expand therapeutic tools, and create space for honest dialogue around the realities of suicidality and suicide loss in therapeutic work. We will explore the psychological, relational, and systemic aspects of chronic suicidality; develop approaches for navigating sustained risk; and address what it means to continue working ethically and compassionately in the aftermath of a suicide.

Guarding the Flock: Preventing Sexual Harassment
and Misconduct in Ministry (no ceu)

THE HONORABLE TAMARA CURRY
EDUARDO K. CURRY, ESQ.
This essential workshop equips pastors, ministry leaders, and church staff with the knowledge and tools to uphold integrity, safety, and trust within their congregations. Rooted in both legal standards and spiritual accountability, the session will explore:
• Clear definitions of sexual harassment and misconduct in ministry contexts
• Biblical and ethical foundations for safeguarding relationships
• Power dynamics and boundaries in pastoral care
• Policies for prevention, reporting, and response
• Creating a culture of transparency, respect, and healing
Through case studies, open dialogue, and practical guidance, participants will strengthen their commitment to leading with humility, protecting the vulnerable, and honoring the sacred trust of their calling.

OTIS A. CORBITT LUNCHEON

Breaking the Silence: The History, Crisis, and Call to Action on Black Youth Suicide

SPEAKER: SONYIA RICHARDSON, PH.D., L.C.S.W.
School of Social Work and Department of Psychiatry
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

CONCURRENT WORKSHOPS

Assessing Suicidality Across the Lifespan

ROBERT BREEN, M.D.

This workshop will discuss recent demographic trends in suicide risk, and how to use Erickson’s stages of development to inform suicide prevention assessment at any age.

Housing Instability: Cross-Cutting Issues and Needs

E. ANN GOWDY, PHD, LISW-CP, MSW
Lecturer, College of Social Work
University of South Carolina

This session will help participants understand housing instability, including cross-cutting issues and needs. This session will review cross-cutting contributing factors impacting housing instability such as mental health, substance abuse, poverty, situational and environmental stressors, and lack of affordable and accessible housing. A focus will include systematic influences of inequities placing young people at a higher risk of homelessness, along with needs.

Traumatic Brain Injury Secondary to Intimate Partner Violence

SHANNON SCOTT, BSN, RN, SANE-A, SANE-P, FN-CSP.
Forensic Nurse Examiner Program Coordinator
McLeod Regional Medical Center

Until recently, traumatic brain injuries (TBI) in victims of intimate partner violence were not widely recognized or studied. While IPV can affect anyone, over one-third of women have experienced this public health crisis at some point in their life; and because up to 92% of the physical strikes sustained by a victim will be to their head, face, and neck, approximately 75% will endure a TBI as a result. This workshop will discuss the association between intimate partner violence and traumatic brain injuries, as well as the importance of recognizing TBI in IPV victims.

Seeing Signs and Saving Lives: Suicide Awareness (no ceu)

GWENDOLYN LC SNIDER, ED.S

Participants will gain valuable information concerning factors that contribute to suicidal thoughts and the warning signs that often precede a crisis. Participants will also learn how to have conversations about mental health with emphasis on empathy and sensitivity.

CONCURRENT WORKSHOPS

Demystifying Your Client’s Brain

JON D. BEAUMONT, LPCS
Beaumont Counseling Services

This workshop will explain, in simpler terms, the brain processes behind some of the most common diagnoses. This presentation will provide proven explanations, stories, analogies, etc. in simple terms that counselors can use to help clients make sense of what is going on in their brains. Furthermore, brain-based justifications (in laymen terms) for several of the most effective treatments, techniques, strategies, etc. will also be covered.

Into the Blue: A Discussion on Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Health and Depression

ANNA CAROLINE CHINNES, PH.D., L.P.
Assistant Professor of Psychology
South Carolina Licensed Psychologist
Francis Marion University

SUSAN K. CARTER, MS, LPC/S
Program Manager, Quality Improvement
Pee Dee Community Mental Health Center

JAMEION B. FOWLER, MSW, LISW-CP, LCSW
DR. EBONY GAFFNEY, MD, PHD, MBA
Executive and Medical Director
Spartanburg Area Mental Health Center

HEATHER EVANS SMITH
Photographer – and Exhibit Artist

AN EVENING CULTURAL EXPERIENCE FEATURING
The Art and Book Signing of Heather Evans Smith

CONFERENCE WORKSHOPS

Sunday, March 1st

CLOSING SPEAKER

Vicarious Trauma

PATRICE PENNEY, MSW, LISW-CP-S
Clinical Assistant Professor
Coordinator, Trauma-Informed Practice Certificate

ALL THAT’S MISSING IS YOU!
We hope to see you at the beach!