While mental health had been a growing concern over the past decade, the COVID-19 pandemic has shed a new light on the needs of individuals, service providers and access to care. After more than a year of social distancing, society continues to grapple with the strain on mental health in communities, labor shortages and the intensifying need for easier access to care. Panelists will explore these challenges, particularly as it relates to disadvantaged populations, including those from rural areas, veterans, first responders and minorities. Staffing shortages, scope of practice and reimbursement issues in New York state will also be discussed. Future opportunities for telehealth/mobile e-health and meeting the needs of health professionals will be shared in what is expected to be a dynamic conversation.

Moderators:

Dr. Michele Thornton, School of Business, MBA-HSA Faculty
Vivianna Hartley, Business Administration Graduate Student

Panelists: 

Dr. Jason Duffy, Mental Health Counseling, Faculty and Graduate Coordinator
Rob Bloom '08, CFO, Carthage Area Hospital
Kristen Bloom '08, LMHC, Carthage Behavioral Health
Benjamin Calixte, Co-Founder, Therapyforblackmen.org
Zoya McCants, EdD, LMHC, LPC, Founder, Right to Heal, LLC