This session explores transformative models to decolonize, liberate, and indigenize Latine Psychology, offering attendees a pathway to integrate ancestral wisdom into modern mental health care practices. Participants will engage with local and statewide initiatives aimed at promoting a reconnection to ancestral traditions across the American continent. Through an analytical lens, the session will also delve into the ethical challenges and opportunities that arise when incorporating ancestral knowledge into health equity efforts, providing a comprehensive understanding of how these practices can enhance Latine mental health care.

Speakers: Evelyn Cruz, Ana Paula Soares-Lynch & Dra. Alyssa Ramirez Stege

Dr. Elise Ward, MS, offers mental health clinicians an insightful exploration into culturally adapted treatments for depression among African American adults. Tailored specifically for professionals seeking to enhance their understanding and effectiveness in working with African American clients, this presentation sheds light on the importance of integrating cultural competency into mental health interventions. Attendees will gain valuable knowledge on implementing strategies and treatments that honor cultural identity, ensuring more personalized and impactful care for African American individuals facing depression.

Speaker: Dr. Elise Ward, MS

Dive into the critical role of dignity in mental health care through the presentation of the Hicks Model for Dignity in Conflict Resolution and the Cobb/Krownapple Model of Belonging through a Culture of Dignity in Educational Settings. This session, led by Dr. Frederick Coleman, MD, explores how these frameworks can be applied to mental health practices to ensure that care is not only effective but also deeply respects the human rights and dignity of each individual. Additionally, the session will examine the relationship between religious belief and the inherent dignity of the person, offering a holistic view of how dignity can serve as a foundational lens for enhancing human rights within mental health care.

Speaker: Dr. Frederick Coleman, MD

Discover the depth and richness of traditional Indigenous healing practices, focusing on the Lakota and Ojibwe cultures, in this session designed to broaden perspectives on mental wellbeing. Participants will be introduced to innovative treatment interventions that are deeply rooted in these native traditions, highlighting the critical role of Native providers and promoting greater awareness of the Native community's contributions to mental health. Additionally, the session will provide an insightful look into nature-based therapy, emphasizing the therapeutic benefits of connecting with the natural environment. This exploration aims to integrate traditional Indigenous knowledge with modern mental health practices, offering a holistic approach to care.

Speaker: Rhiannon Khunesh MSW, APSW

With Wisconsin being home to the third-largest Hmong population in the United States, understanding the unique mental health needs and cultural nuances of this community is crucial for clinicians and mental health professionals. This session aims to equip attendees with the knowledge and considerations necessary for providing culturally congruent care to the Hmong diaspora. Participants will learn about the specific mental health challenges faced by the Hmong community, influenced by their rich cultural heritage and experiences of migration and adaptation. By cultivating an understanding of Hmong cultural values, beliefs, and practices, this presentation seeks to enhance the effectiveness and sensitivity of mental health services, promoting better health outcomes and supporting the well-being of the Hmong population in Wisconsin and beyond.

Speaker: Pam Yang, LMFT

This session delves into the unique aspects of multiracial identity, spotlighting the strengths and protective factors that support mental health and wellness in multiracial individuals. Participants will be guided in building a vocabulary that affirms multiracial identities, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment. Additionally, the presentation will offer historical context to the development of frameworks that underpin multiracial mental health care, providing attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and triumphs associated with navigating multiracial identity. This session aims to equip clinicians and mental health professionals with the tools and insights necessary for promoting a holistic approach to wellness that celebrates the richness of multiracial experiences.

Speaker: Kianna Goodwin, LCSW