7:30am – 8:45am

Registration & Coffee with Vendors (Breakfast is on your own.)

 

8:45am – 9:00am

Welcome & Annual Meeting of the Corporation

Jackie Negri, Director, NYS Care Management Coalition

9:00am – 9:45am 

Keynote Presentation: TBA

Speaker TBA

9:45am – 10:00am 

Break with Vendors

 

10:00am – 11:15am

Concurrent Sessions

 

1. The Role of Care Managers in Supporting Criminal Justice-Impacted Individuals: Bridging Healthcare

Yadira Ramos Marcano, LCSW, Clinical Director, The Fortune Society
George Hill, Care Manager, The Fortune Society
Jokairy Morel, Care Manager, The Fortune Society
Amanda Cruz, Care Manager, The Fortune Society

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This topic will highlight the importance of a collaborative of the care manager, compassionate, and comprehensive approach to supporting individuals impacted by the criminal justice system and ultimately promoting long-term health stability, recovery and reintegration.
 

2. Motivational Interviewing for Person Centered Care

LaTisha Kentop, LMSW, Associate Director of Care Management, Institute for Family Health

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In care management, motivational interviewing is a collaborative approach, between the care manager and the client, that's focused on strengthening the patient's motivation to adhere to the care plan and change behaviors that interfere with better overall health and mental wellness. This session will provide tools, practical strategies and methods to accomplish person-centered care.

 

3. Health Home Plus (HH+) for High Need Adults living with Serious Mental Illness

Melissa A. Beall, M.A., Unit Director of Care Coordination, Bureau of Rehabilitation Services, Treatment, and Care Coordination, NYS Office of Mental Health
Kelly Jobin, LMHC, Mental Health Program Specialist 2, Bureau of Rehabilitation Services, Treatment and Care Coordination, NYS Office of Mental Health

In this presentation, OMH will provide an overview of Health Home Plus, an intensive level of Health Home care management for high need individuals living with SMI. Highlights will include sharing best practices for engaging HH+ eligible individuals, collaboration with key community providers and other critical services, and key HH+ population outcomes achieved.

 

4. Implementing Technology with Purpose—Driving Impact While Saving Costs

Tavin Weeda, Data Scientist and Nathan Ito-Prine, CEO, Community Care Management Partners (CCMP)

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Technology is pervasive in modern Health Home Care Management, with new tools emerging almost as quickly as companies are trying to implement them. In the rush to stay relevant, many organizations adopt the latest trends—be it artificial intelligence, dashboarding, or other modern solutions—under the assumption that these tools will solve all their problems. However, this approach often overlooks the most critical question: “What problem are we actually trying to solve?” Ill-defined challenges paired with costly implementations can result in wasted resources and unmet expectations. At CCMP, we take a different approach. While we embrace cutting-edge technologies like A.I. and advanced data visualization tools, we begin by clearly defining the problem we aim to address. This allows us to assess whether a new technology is the right fit or if a simpler, more cost-effective solution would suffice. By grounding our decisions in well-defined objectives, we not only reduce implementation costs but also ensure that the tools we adopt deliver tangible results. In this session, participants will learn how to approach technology adoption strategically, avoid costly missteps, and implement solutions tailored to their needs. Drawing from CCMP’s experience, we’ll share practical tips for identifying the right tools, maximizing impact, and extending these innovations to a broader network—achieving more for less.

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5. Soul Care: Wellness, Self Care, and Personal Journeys

Samantha “Sunni” Headley, MSW, NYCPS, CASAC-T, Implementation Specialist/Trainer,

Marissa Messiah, MA, CSRP, Implementation Specialist/Trainer, and

Luis Lopez, MA, MS, Director

ICONECT, Institute for Care Management, Outreach, Networking, Engagement, Connecting and Training, Center for Practice Innovations, Division of Behavioral Health Services and Policy Research, Center for Practice Innovations at Columbia Psychiatry, NYS Psychiatric Institute

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This workshop will provide some important tips about soul-care for care managers, supervisors and all who attend! Additionally, we will provide a mini workshop on how to use writing (journaling, poetry) to enhance our wellness.

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6. ​Keeping up to Date with the CANS

Sarah Kane, LMSW, Training Manager, CANS-NY Technical Assistance Institute​

Dana Soto, Coaching Manager, CANS-NY Technical Assistance Institute

Colette Poulin, MSSA, Health Program Director, NYS Department of Health

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There have been many updates and changes to the CANS-NY including changes to the manual and certification processes.  Come join representatives from both the CANS-NY Technical Assistance Institute and NYS DOH to discuss these changes and any other CANS related questions you might have!

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7. Effective Time Management in Care Coordination

Michael Napolitano, Department Manager of Care Management and Supported Housing, Mental Health America of Dutchess County

Prisilla Acosta, Care Management Team Leader, Mental Health America of Dutchess County

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In the last few years, the jobs of care managers have changed drastically. The reporting responsibilities, the number of clients you must manage and the new community partners you are expected to report have increased. Going home at the end of the day, with your work completed can certainly improve your personal life. Having good time management skills can improve not only your work life but can bring you inner peace. This session will explore some of your struggles and give concrete strategies to improve your time management skills.

 

11:15am - 11:30am

Break

 

11:30am – 12:45pm  

Concurrent Sessions

 

1. Best Practices on Outreach & Engagement

Tanya King, MSW, Program Supervisor, Central Nassau Guidance

Amy Gavilanes, Outreach Coordinator, Central Nassau Guidance

This session will share our professional experience and expertise in outreaching clients and engaging clients who are in a very vulnerable state. Included in this presentation will be our tips and tricks in working closely with hospitals, jails, detox units and more! Presenters will share our process from start to finish.  This presentation will take you through the entire outreach process; from attending tabling events to expanding our outreach, purchasing promotional items to engage clients, the struggles of contacting referrals, and successful enrollments and engagements with the client directly.

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2. Making Connections to Psychiatric Rehabilitation Services in the Mental Health Service Continuum: What Care Coordinators Need to Know About Current Programs

Julie Lloyd, LCSW-R, Mental Health Program Specialist, NYS Office of Mental Health

Stephen Vroman Jr, MS., Mental Health Program Specialist, NYS Office of Mental Health

Amy Smith, LCSW-R, Mental Health Program Specialist, NYS Office of Mental Health

Amanda Pullmain, BSW, Mental Health Program Specialist, NYS Office of Mental Health

Cesar Ortiz, MS, Mental Health Program Specialist, NYS Office of Mental Health

This workshop will give Care Coordinators a brief overview of the existing Rehabilitation Services available in the mental health service continuum, updates on changes happening in these services, and provide information on connecting individuals to each of these services. The workshop will also highlight how rehabilitation services can promote recovery, community participation, and improved quality of life.

Attendees will learn about Community Oriented Recovery Empowerment (CORE) services and efforts to enhance the access to CORE, while engaging care managers for their insights on the needs of the population they serve. This workshop will also include a discussion of Personalized Recovery Oriented Services (PROS) redesign, new services, and effective collaboration between Care Coordinators and PROS programs. Attendees will also learn about regulation updates for Mental Health Outpatient Treatment and Rehabilitation Services (MHOTRS) programs, including expansion of Complex Care Management, expanded availability of Crisis Services, and co-enrollment opportunities between MHOTRS programs and other services. Finally, attendees will learn about Supported Employment services and OMH’s investment in making the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model available in many services across the system.

 

3. The Power of Strengths: Identifying and Utilizing Strengths with Youth and Their Families

Erika Brunelle, MS, Supervisor, High Fidelity Wrap Around, and

Barbara Jaklitsch, High Fidelity Wrap Around Team,

ICONECT, Institute for Care Management, Outreach, Networking, Engagement, Connecting and Training, Center for Practice Innovations, Division of Behavioral Health Services and Policy Research, Center for Practice Innovations at Columbia Psychiatry, NYS Psychiatric Institute

The strategic and persistent use of strengths can powerfully impact care manager relationships with youth and their families. This workshop will present and explore strategies for discovering, identifying, and utilizing strengths to enhance engagement, ongoing relationships, and planning with youth and their families.

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4. Care Managers Serving People Who Want to Work: How to Start Employment Conversations and Help Individuals Develop a Good Work Ethic

Lisa Brown, MS, CRC, WIP, NYESS Assistant Director, NYS Office of Mental Health​

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Care Managers may work with individuals who have a limited work history.  Often, staff find it necessary to talk to individuals about employment-specific topics including the following: General Employment Topics; Appropriate Language; Dress Code; Supervisor; Workplace Norms; Co-Workers; General Office Rules; and Work Ethic. This presentation will include information on how to begin these important employment conversations. Work Ethic is often a topic that is missed when we have employment conversations with individuals we serve, and it’s included in this presentation so Care Managers can demonstrate, encourage, and teach someone how to have a good work ethic.

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5. How Social Care Networks are Operationalizing the NYS 1115 Waiver

Janelle Shults, LMSW, Regional Director, Capital Region, Healthy Alliance

Brandon Barton, LMHC, NCC, Regional Director - North Country, Healthy Alliance

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Join two former Health Home colleagues for a dynamic conversation as they share insights on how this innovative program is addressing Health-Related Social Needs (HRSN).

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Health Home Care Managers play a vital role in supporting some of the most vulnerable members of our communities. By attending this session, you'll discover how Social Care Networks can become a powerful ally in serving your members—while empowering you to make an even greater impact every day. Participants will gain an overview of SCNs, understand the HRSN screening process and range of HRSN, learn how often screenings are required and triggers for re-screening, and more!

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6. Navigating Recovery: A Comprehensive Care Management Model for Opioid Use Disorder in Federally Qualified Health Centers

Jay Musella, LMSW, Senior Director, Population Programs, The Institute for Family Health

Geena Altebrando, Psy M., Program Coordinator, The Institute for Family Health

Representatives, Sun River Health

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This presentation will showcase innovative care management programs implemented at Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) to support patients receiving medication-assisted therapy (MAT) with Buprenorphine (Suboxone) for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD). The program leverages Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Care Navigators to address clinical and non-clinical needs, including scheduling medical appointments, addressing social drivers of health, coordinating with medical providers, and delivering harm reduction education and supplies. Attendees will gain insights into the program's structure, the role of SUD Care Navigators, and its impact on patient outcomes. Best practices, challenges, and lessons learned will also be discussed to guide replication in other healthcare settings.

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7. Systems Literacy: Children's Mental Health System

Meredith Ray-LaBatt, MA, MSW, Division Deputy Director, Division of Children and Families, NYS Office of Mental Health

Kimberly Heffner, Bureau Deputy Director, NYS Office of Mental Health

Davia Plusch, MS, Statewide SPOA Coordinator, NYS Office of Mental Health

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In this presentation, staff from the NYS Office of Mental Health Division of Integrated Community Services for Children and Families will review the array of services available through the children's mental health system continuum of care and other resources available to children with mental health needs and their families.  The presentation is ideal for new staff or those needing a refresher on children’s mental health programs in NYS.

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12:45pm – 1:30pm

Lunch & Dessert with Vendors

 

1:30pm – 2:45pm

Concurrent Sessions

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1. Finding Harmony in Chaos: Maintaining a Work-Life Balance

Ellen Sadler, Health Homes Care Manager Supervisor, CCOR

With the expectations, responsibilities, and unplanned happenings our jobs can bring, when events of one’s personal life are also stressful and unexpected, it can feel like fuel is being added to the fire. Through examining boundaries, self-care practices, and discovering factors that are both inside and outside of our control, we will build a toolbox of tips and tricks to aid with finding moments of peace during our hectic days.

 

2. Collaborative Performance Improvement with CMAs

Ana Tabachneck, LCSW, Chief Policy and Compliance Officer, CCMH Health Home

Stephen Huntley, Senior Quality Assurance Specialist, CCMH Health Home

Andrea Kiliaris, Associate Director of Care Management, CABS

CCMP Health Home will share our experience with performance management and turnaround within the CMA network.  We will review our philosophy of collaborative performance improvement, structure of site visits, and follow up on performance improvement plans.  Presentation includes a case study of CMA turnaround using strategies of retrenchment, repositioning, and reorganization over a 12-month period. Participants will leave with a better understanding of how to help complex programs improve performance collaboratively.

 

3. The Importance of Community Health Workers within the Healthcare System

Maria Jeanniton, RN, BSN, MSN, CCM, Director, Medical Management, COPE Health Solutions

Carlene Zincke, MHA, MSN, BSN, RN, PMP, Principal and Executive Vice President, COPE Health Solutions

Community Health Workers (CHWs) play a critical role by bridging gaps between members of the community and healthcare providers to address social determinants of health and health-related social needs. CHWs provide trauma-informed care that is culturally and linguistically competent. Learn how CHWs connect members to community-based organizations such as food pantries, housing programs, and transportation to help improve access to care, reduce health disparities, and enhance the overall well-being of the communities they serve.

 

4. Assertive Community Treatment Overview for Care Managers

Anna McDonough, MPA, Mental Health Program Specialist II, NYS Office of Mental Health  

Jay Shufelt, MPA, Mental Health Program Specialist II Bureau of Rehabilitation Services, Treatment, and Care Coordination, NYS Office of Mental Health  

Please join this session if you are interested in learning about Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) and the role ACT teams have in the continuum of care. We will provide an overview of ACT and the emerging specialty ACT models. We will also explore pathways for coordination and ongoing collaboration of ACT providers and Health Home Care Managers. 

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5. Children’s HCBS Waiver: EMOD/VMOD/AAT & FMS

Representatives, CHHUNY​

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Join the CHHUNY FMS team to discuss lessons learned and best practices for submitting and managing environmental modification, vehicle modification, and adaptive/assistive technology requests through the DOH Children’s Waiver.

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6. Health Homes in the Evolving Landscape

Sarina Master, MHA, Director, Bureau of Adult Special Populations, NYSDOH

Hillel Hirshbein, LCSW, MPH, Health Home Program Director NYSDOH

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Over the 13 years since the rollout of the Health Home program the health and social care system in New York State has transformed remarkably. This session will review the evolution of the Medicaid landscape over the past decade, the changes we can expect to see in the coming years, and a vision for how the Health Home program can grow, integrate, and advance to meet the critical needs that will arise.​

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3:00pm – 3:15pm

Break

 

3:15pm – 4:30pm

Concurrent Sessions

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1. LGBTQ+ Affirming Care Management

Tomicka Madison, MBA, Director of Care Management, Greater Rochester Health Home Network

This session will discuss LGBTQ+ affirming care management and working with the LGBTQ+ population.

 

2. Building a Team Through Effective Communication

Ann Murphy, Youth Services Program Manager, OLV Human Services

Mary Hannon, Compliance Officer, OLV Human Services

Marga McMahon, Director of Innovative Learning, OLV Human Services

In a time where we have access to more means of communication than ever before, employees are still reporting feeling disconnected from their teams.  Navigating both on site and remote staff can present numerous barriers to building a cohesive and inclusive team, leading to decreased employee retention rate and increased workplace stress.   Join OLV Human Services to explore how effective communication is essential to creating and maintaining a strong, productive and engaged workforce.  OLVHS will discuss their unique initiative known as “Camp RICH,” a leadership retreat that allows all staff an opportunity to participate in a full workday of activities which fosters hope through connection by sharing information and developing respectful agency relationships. During this session, participants will discuss teambuilding and communication through a variety of activities and resources.  Each participant will leave the session with a toolbox filled with ice breakers, personality assessments, team building activities and strategies to strengthen the bonds within their teams.    In order to best support the people we serve, we first need to prioritize strengthening and supporting each other.

 

3. Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs) and Integrated Health

Dorota Kearney, LMHC, CCBHC Director, NYS Office of Mental Health

This session is recommended for care managers, clinical staff, and leadership who wish to learn more about Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs), the integrated services they provide, and where CCBHCs fit into the service system of their community.  CCBHCs provide nine (9) required services and are guided by several values and core principles to enhance the behavioral health system.  Learn more about those values and principles and how CCBHCs are valuable to your work by attending.

 

4. NYS Assisted Outpatient Treatment (AOT): A Systemic Overview, Tips and Best Practices to Supporting Individuals Navigating AOT

Tom Gottehrer, LCSW, Director, Assisted Outpatient Treatment, New York State Office of Mental Health

Alyssa Schmidt, LMHC, Senior Director of Care Management, Greater Mental Health of NY

Donna Mandel, Ed.D, LMHC, Senior Director of Care Management, Greater Mental Health of NY

Melissa Sandoval, Care Manager, Greater Mental Health of NY

Shelly Greenslade, Sr. Care Manager, Greater Mental Health of NY

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This session will provide a “101” of AOT including background, purpose, eligibility criteria, engagement, oversight and AOT legal background/processes. Presenters will also discuss best practices for serving the AOT population within health home care management. Successes in engagement and billing, developing a strong care plan with mandated clients, and how to meet LGU reporting requirements.

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5. What’s Next? Helping Youth to Prepare for Life after Health Homes

Cory Sullivan, Program Manager, Children's Health Home of Upstate New York

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As a mandate, HHSC is required to help create transitional objectives for youth over 14. This workshop will help Care Managers to help youth identify goals to prepare them for their future. With each youth being unique, this workshop will focus on conversation strategies, ways to connect to community resources, and plans to other health systems after graduation.

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6. Children’s Health Home: Shifting the “check the box” Mentality.

Representatives, CHHUNY​

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Since inception, health homes have encountered numerous policy, procedure, and system updates. In this ever-changing landscape, it can often feel like we are focused on meeting policy and “checking the box” for compliance purposes more than using critical thinking skills, basic engagement strategies, and goal-oriented services. Join us to learn how CHHUNY is looking to shift this mentality and ensure providing services to children and families is the priority!

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Dinner is on your own.