The How Is Easy, The Why Is Difficult:
A Coroner's Perspective On The Overdose Epidemic
Graham Hetrick, Dauphin County Coroner
 | Few people experience the devastation of the opioid overdose epidemic like Graham Hetrick. As Dauphin County Coroner, Hetrick sees firsthand how overdoses destroy lives and affect families and communities. During Hetrick's presentation, he shared his views of the overdose epidemic from his perspective as a medical legal investigator. He described how the overdose epidemic is the symptom of larger societal problems. He emphasized the importance of asking the right questions to assess issues correctly and explained the need for a multifaceted response that doesn't rely on government action alone. |
Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs: Current Activities and Initiatives
 | The PA Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs panel discussion was moderated by Cheryl Dondero of the Dauphin County Department of Drug and Alcohol Services. Panelists included Kathy Jo Stence, Section Chief for System Transformation Projects with the PA Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs; Jenn Newell, Chief of County Program Oversight with the PA Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs; Jeff Geibel, Division Director of Treatment with the PA Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs; and Jodi Skiles, Bureau Director of Treatment, Prevention and Intervention with the PA Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs. The panel discussion focused on the department's current activities and initiatives including take back boxes, prescribing guidelines, naloxone, warm hand off, DUI monitoring, workforce development, data systems and the Commonwealth's transition from PCPC to ASAM. |
Introduction to the Aroma Freedom Technique
Quin Stringham, Essentials 4 Wholeness
 | The Aroma Freedom Technique (AFT) was developed by clinical psychologist Dr. Benjamin Perkus. Perkus incorporated his extensive knowledge and experience in psychotherapy with the power of essential oil blends specifically designed to open the gate to the inner self. AFT is a powerful yet simple technique using essential oils to transform one's emotions and discover underlying reasons for specific behaviors and / or physical pain. Participants learned how AFT can be used for self-care and with clients. Participants also got an opportunity to participate in an AFT session and learned about the 12 steps of AFT. |
Addiction and Bereavement
Leslie Delp and Julia Dunn, Olivia's House
 | The Addiction and Bereavement workshop focused on the family members who survive and struggle after the loss of a loved one due to addiction, something that is becoming mroe common because of the opioid overdose epidemic. After this type of loss, family members often find themselves dealing with a variety of feelings that can include fear, regret, guilt, relief and anger. The workshop included an explanation fo the natural bereavement process and provided participants with tools to facilitate positive communication within a family system experiencing grief and loss. Participants also learned about the variety of resources available in Central PA to support a family after a death due to opioids. |
Connecting With The Next Generation
Ivy Schneider, Helix Strategies
 | The Connecting With The Next Generation workshop participants were offered an understanding of how to engage millennials in the addiction conversation. Participants learned how to craft messaging that speaks to the younger generation to reinforce the dangers of drugs, alcohol and other addictions. Participants also learned about key components to offering treatment and recovery support to millennials. |
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