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Holiday Survival Guide: Food, Stress, and Mental Health Tips

Tuesday, November 25, 2025

It’s the holiday season! A time of joy, celebration, connection…and stress. Between busier schedules, elaborate meals, family dynamics, and shorter days, it’s easy to get overwhelmed.
To help you navigate the season, our experts share simple tips on how to balance mental and physical health during the holidays.

Read more Holiday Survival Guide: Food, Stress, and Mental Health Tips

How to Reduce Holiday Stress for Kids—and Yourself

Tuesday, November 18, 2025

It’s not just adults who feel holiday pressure—kids experience holiday stress too, often in subtle ways. Children may feel disappointed or overwhelmed when the season doesn’t match the picture-perfect version they see in movies, ads, or on social media. Pediatric psychiatrist Laura Cardella, MD, shares tips to help families manage holiday stress together. 

Read more How to Reduce Holiday Stress for Kids—and Yourself

The Positives of Social Media for Teens and How Parents Can Guide Safe Use

Friday, November 14, 2025

Social media can help teens connect, create, and discover who they are. Medical Center experts offer guidance on how to use it thoughtfully and safely.

Read The Positives of Social Media for Teens and How Parents Can Guide Safe Use

Check Your Health Podcast: Mental health matters—and everyone deserves care that’s compassionate and personalized.

Thursday, November 13, 2025

Check Your Health Podcast with Dr. Shaun Nelmes

Dr. George Nasra, MD, and Sally Rousseau, LCSW, LMFT,  discuss how UR Medicine’s Strong Minds Adult Outpatient Mental Health Clinic supports individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, and trauma-related disorders.

Listen to Podcast - Check Your Health Podcast: Mental health matters—and everyone deserves care that’s compassionate and personalized. 

Stepping Out in the Community for October

Thursday, November 13, 2025

Our teams had a busy month in October, attending community events to share mental health resources! 

The Alzheimer's Disease Care, Research and Education (AD-CARE) Program recently attended several events to spread information and awareness of the latest Alzheimer's Disease research, including:

• The Southern Tier Caregivers Conference
• Evergreen Places’ Brain Health Initiative Kick-Off
• The Caring with Pride Caregiver Conference
• The Greece Recreation Center's Family Health and Wellness fair
• A presentation on brain health at the Emmanuel Missionary Baptist Church

Pediatric Behavioral Health and Wellness recently attended Autism Up's TRUNKS o' TREATS! day to share mental health resources to support those with autism.

The team also stopped by Loretta Johnson Middle School to share information about youth mental health services! 

Team Science Showcase: Cracking the Code of Chronic Pain

Tuesday, November 11, 2025

Researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center, including Paul Geha, MD, from Psychiatry and Neuroscience, are collaborating across fields like dentistry, neurosurgery, and psychiatry to tackle chronic pain, which affects over 50 million U.S. adults. Their multidisciplinary approach aims to decode pain through brain imaging, psychological tests, and patient data, moving beyond single-drug solutions. 

Read more Team Science Showcase: Cracking the Code of Chronic Pain

Psychiatry Residents Recognized Nationally

Tuesday, November 11, 2025

Several trainees received national awards during this past month.

Jaewon Lee, MD, MPH recieved the Top #2 Trainee Poster Award at the 2025 Annual Meeting and Scientific Symposium of the American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry. As part of this award, she provided a two-minute pitch presentation at the conference of her poster, “Age-Associated Differences in Substance Use Among Women Who Died by Suicide: Using CDC NVDRS Data,” which highlighted the strong link between women’s suicide in midlife and substance use.

Sungsu Lee, MD, PhD (Geriatric Psychiatry fellow) won an award for Best Poster at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Psychiatry & the Law. 

Henry Philofsky, MD was awarded the 7th Annual Austen Riggs Award for Excellence in Psychotherapy. This national award recognizes Psychiatry residents who show interest and potential in psychodynamic psychiatry or biopsychosocial  approaches to psychiatry research.

Mark Your Calendars for the Department of Psychiatry 3rd Annual Holiday Food Drive!

Monday, November 3, 2025

Wondering how you can help some of your neighbors facing food insecurity this holiday season?

Starting November 17th, non-perishables can be dropped off at all our inpatient units, our Psychiatry Nursing Service Office (1-9017 at our Strong Memorial Hospital location), or several of our outpatient clinics for our 3rd Annual Holiday Food Drive.

Donations will go towards the UR Medicine Food Pantry to provide food packages for those receiving mental health care.

Please take a look at the list of Non-perishables particularly in need

Representing URMC Psychiatry Nationally this Fall

Saturday, November 1, 2025

Our faculty, staff, and trainees continue to present and learn at presentations and conferences around the world. See below for a few of the places our team members have been this month!

In November, several faculty members presented at the Academy of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry's Annual Meeting, "Innovation in C-L Psychiatry: Exploring the Promise and Pitfalls of New Approaches," in San Antonio. John Romano Professor and Chair Hochang Ben Lee, MD also spoke as Editor-in-Chief for the Journal of the Academy of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry during the conference!

Dr. Lee also presented the UCLA Brain Institute's Semel Grand Rounds on November 18th, discussing proactive consultation-liaison psychiatry as a method of transforming psychiatric care in hospitals. 

Jennifer West, PhD presented "Seguridad y Comunidad: Culturally Responsive Approaches to Firearm Injury Prevention" at the National Research Conference for the Prevention of Firearm-Related Harms on November 20th in Phoenix. Corey Nichols-Hadeed, JD and Kelly Johnson of the Firearm Injury Prevention Program were coauthors on this paper. In addition, Jordan Kocon, PhD, an alumnus of our Health Service Psychology Doctoral Internship, served as co-author.

Craig Rooney, PhD presented several breakout sessions at the University of Rochester Wellbeing Symposium alongside Toni Sexton of the Office of Wellbeing. The session discussed "Cultivating Connection and Meaning through our 'Why." Dr. Rooney and Dr. Autumn Gallegos also presented a poster session, "The URMC Wellbeing Fellows Program: Equipping Local Leaders with Tools for Change," alongside Toni Sexton and Jessica Shand, MD, of the Department of Pediatrics during the symposium. 

On November 5th and 6th, Yeates Conwell, MD, Annamarie Defayette, PhD, and Tony Pisani, PhD presented their work at the 42nd Brazilian Congress of Psychiatry in Rio de Janero, Brazil. 

On September 30th, William Watson, PhD presented an invited address, “An Experiential Emotion-Focused Approach to Understanding and Treating Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Attacks (PNEA),” at the Annual Meeting of the Association for the Treatment of Neuroplastic Symptoms, in Boulder, Colorado. 

Dr. Watson also recently presented a lecture, “ISTDP for FND in a 10-year-old,” to a group of 70 clinicians in the UK, as well as a lecture and five process groups to a group of Russian trainees from around the world for the Institute for Psychodynamic Coaching's intensive. 

Corey Nichols-Hadeed, JD, Jennifer West, PhD, and Chloe Lee, MD, MPH joined local experts at Willow Domestic Violence Center of Greater Rochester's annual summit to talk about topics such as firearm injury research as well as the unique perspectives of healthcare providers with personal experience of domestic abuse. 

Faculty and alums from our MS in Marriage and Family Therapy program attended the Collaborative Family Healthcare Association's annual Integrated Care Conference in Raleigh, North Carolina. 

Michael Scharf, MD, Segundo Robert-Ibarra, MD, Deanna Sams, PhD, Taylor Steeves, PhD, David Garrison, MD, and Aubry Ball, LMHC presented a two-hour symposium discussing the Rapid Stabilization Pathway, an intervention for youth in inpatient units, at the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry's annual meeting in Chicago. 

Nilsa Ricci, MD (PGY3),  Anne-Marie Hathaway, DO (Chief for CPEP/inpatient psychiatry), Sungsu Lee, MD, PhD (Geriatric Psychiatry Fellow), and Fatima Rumesa, MD (Forensic Psychiatry Fellow) presented poster sessions at the American Academy of Psychiatry & the Law (AAPL)'s Annual Meeting. Sungsu Lee's poster was named the Best Poster by the AAPL! More photos available here. 

Jhalysa Johnson, Kenya Malcolm, PhD, Jerard Johnson, and Chassity Phelps attended the Trauma Informed Network and Resource Center's Join the Journey conference, focused on bringing trauma-informed practices to communities and organizations.

Wei Li Suen, MD presented two sessions at the Academy of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry's Annual Meeting in San Antonio, Texas. His presentations will include: 

•  "A Case for Transdermal Buprenorphine: Low Dose Induction in a Patient with Opioid Use Disorder and Chronic Pain"
• "When Catatonia and Comfort Care Collide: A Case Report on Withdrawing a Beneficial Course of ECT in a Medically Ill Patient With Catatonia"

BHP Blog: When Anxiety Feels Like a Crisis, Part 2: Coping with Panic Attacks

Friday, October 31, 2025

Have you found yourself skipping events with crowds, turning down social invitations, or even missing work because of anxiety? Maybe you put off medical appointments or arrange rides, so you don’t have to drive. If you have had a panic attack before, you may find yourself avoiding certain activities, situations, or settings.

Read more BHP Blog: When Anxiety Feels Like a Crisis, Part 2: Coping with Panic Attacks

University of Rochester Neurobiologist Suzanne Haber Elected to National Academy of Medicine

Saturday, October 18, 2025

Suzanne N. Haber, PhD

Suzanne N. Haber, PhD, an internationally recognized scientist whose work has transformed our understanding of the brain networks that play a central role in many mental health disorders, including obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and depression, has been elected to the National Academy of Medicine (NAM). Recognized as one of the highest accolades in health and medicine, the distinction acknowledges Haber’s significant contributions to the fields of neuroscience and psychiatry over the past 40 years.   

Dean’s professor in the Department of Pharmacology and Physiology at the University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, Haber is a biological map maker, charting the brain regions and circuits that regulate motivation, cognition, and motor control. Through anatomical studies and the use of advanced imaging techniques she’s identified abnormalities in brain circuitry that contribute to neurological and mental health disorders ranging from schizophrenia and OCD to post-traumatic stress disorder, addiction, and depression.

Leader of the National Institutes of Health-funded Silvio O. Conte Center for Basic and Translational Mental Health Research at the University of Rochester, Haber partners with scientists and physicians from institutions across the country to turn her findings on circuit dysfunction into treatments that can improve people’s lives. She’s currently using circuitry models to determine which circuits physicians should target for deep brain stimulation and transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy to be most effective for individuals with OCD, depression, and addiction. 

“Suzanne’s research is highly translational,” said Steve Dewhurst, PhD, vice president for Research at the University of Rochester. “Her broad knowledge of brain networks, including the so-called ‘OCD network’, combined with the expertise of state-of-the-art imaging specialists and physicians attuned to patient needs, creates an ideal foundation for understanding how the OCD network regulates brain function in both health and disease. It also sets the stage for the development of innovative treatment strategies. This recognition is a testament to her remarkable insight and collaborative nature.”

Unique New Program Uses Art to Bring Vitality to Older Adults

Friday, October 17, 2025

Yeates Conwell, MD spoke with Spectrum 1 News on the University of Rochester Aging Institute's Aging INSPIRED! program, which aims to explore how art can keep adults engaged and healthy as they age. 

Aging INSPIRED! will be holding their 2025 event on November 8th at the Memorial Art Gallery. Join for an afternoon of discussions focused on making Rochester an even more age-friendly community.

Celebrating Global Peer Support Day

Thursday, October 16, 2025

Today, on Global Peer Support Day, we celebrate and honor the incredible work of our peer professionals—individuals who draw upon their lived experience with mental health and substance use recovery to offer support, advocacy, and hope to our patients. Global Peer Support Day is observed annually on the third Thursday of October and honors peer specialists who utilize their lived experience with mental health, addiction, or trauma to help others. The day raises public awareness of peer support services and celebrates the important role these individuals play in helping people on their recovery journey. Peer support is a vital component of our behavioral health system. By promoting connection, reducing stigma, and walking alongside those in recovery, our peer advocates exemplify the values of empathy, respect, and resilience that are at the heart of our mission.

We extend our gratitude to every peer advocate in our department; your dedication strengthens our collective work and continues to transform lives. Please take a moment to watch this video and learn more about why our peers are so valued and appreciated by their supervisors!! 

What You Should Know About Kratom

Tuesday, October 14, 2025

Opinions on kratom, a supplement made from the leaves of a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, have been split. While some people report advantages to treating depression or chronic pain, others report withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit.

Marc Swogger, PhD joined experts to break down some of these considerations for those looking to start kratom.

Pediatric Behavioral Health & Wellness Once Again Named to U.S. News & World Report

Wednesday, October 8, 2025

We are proud to share that our Child and Adolescent Psychiatry program has once again been named to U.S. World News Report's Top 50 Best Children’s Hospitals rankings under the Pediatric and Adolescent Behavioral Health category! This category recognizes the achievements of several divisions at Golisano Children's Hospital, including the divisions of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, and Adolescent Medicine.

This recognition marks the second consecutive year that these divisions have been highlighted in U.S. World News Report.

8 things to know about the University of Rochester’s Mt. Hope Family Center

Monday, October 6, 2025

For 45 years, Mt. Hope Family Center, a national resource, has pioneered cutting-edge psychology research while providing support for thousands of vulnerable families annually.  The center is cross-disciplinary by design—combining resources from across the University of Rochester and the community. Researchers at Mt. Hope work alongside colleagues in the Department of Psychology, Susan B. Anthony Center, School of Nursing, as well as the Medical Center’s departments of psychiatry, pediatrics, and obstetrics and gynecology.

Read UR News Center 8 things to know about the University of Rochester’s Mt. Hope Family Center

"You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown" Show Explores Sibling Rivalry, Self-Esteem, and Finding Happiness

Friday, October 3, 2025

Pediatric Behavioral Health and Wellness's Creative Arts Therapy Program invites you to their fall production of You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown, running from October 3rd to 5th! 

The show is a form of therapeutic theatre, directed by Maggie Powell (Licensed Creative Arts Therapist and Registered Drama Therapist), with assistant direction by Robyn Broomfield (Licensed Mental Health Counselor), and music direction by Elena Parkins (Licensed Creative Arts Therapist and Board-Certified Music Therapist). Actors and stage crew are all youth currently or formerly engaged in mental health services.

The show explores themes of sibling rivalry, procrastination, perfectionism, self-esteem, and ultimately, finding happiness in the everyday things! It's appropriate for all ages and will run about 2 hours with an intermission. Tickets are $10 for youth and $15 for adults. 

Why Are Gun Suicides Soaring Among Older American Men?

Friday, October 3, 2025

Research from the Centers for Disease Control is finding that more and more older adults- especially men- are dying by gun suicide. Yeates Conwell, MD joined experts to talk with GQ on the factors driving this public health crisis.

BHP Blog: Nurturing a Nature Habit

Wednesday, October 1, 2025

Engaging with the natural world, such as rocks, dirt, water, or anything found outdoors—including animals, ecosystems, or areas generally not developed by humans—has been shown to help improve overall mental and physical well-being. A connection to nature, research shows, can help reduce stress and help you thrive. 

Read more BHP Blog: Nurturing a Nature Habit

Aging-Inspired - Unique new program uses art to bring vitality to older adults

Tuesday, September 30, 2025

Yeates Conwell, MD, spoke to Spectrum News (Sept. 30) about the Aging Institute’s Aging Inspired campaign, which highlights the health benefits of the arts and encourages older adults to embrace new experiences. “It’s really wonderful to watch how older people can get engaged in this and really find well-being and joy in life in ways that they hadn’t before,” Conwell said.

Read more Aging-Inspired - Unique new program uses art to bring vitality to older adults

Madeline Penn Named Business Administrator for Adult Acute Division

Monday, September 29, 2025

Please join us in welcoming Madeline Penn back to the Adult Acute Division as our new Business Administrator, supporting the Adult Inpatient Units, CPEP/PEOB, Mobile Crisis Team, and Crisis Call Line!

Madeline is returning to our department after serving as Practice Manager, overseeing 3 outpatient clinics in OBGYN Maternal Fetal Medicine. There, she led operations across clinical, scheduling, and compliance. Prior to that, she worked in our Adult Partial Hospital Program as Lead OAR, where she streamlined front-end operations and was instrumental in scheduling and carrying a new model for the program's billing. 

Madeline holds a Bachelor's in Health Care Administration and recently completed the Master's in Leadership in Health Care Systems through the UR School of Nursing. She brings a solid background in health care administration, leadership, and operational management with experience in building efficient workflows, front-end operations, and enhancing patient access across service lines. 

We are thrilled to have Madeline back in our Department and looking forward to the enthusiasm and support she will bring to the programs in the Adult Acute Division!

Team Science Showcase: Cracking the Code of Chronic Pain

Friday, September 26, 2025

The path to discovery knows no walls. Labs must be nimble, intuitive, and creative to make advancements that will lead to a better understanding of the human body and treatments for disease.

When tackling a complex problem like chronic pain, which the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates affects more than 50 million adults in the United States, researchers from a myriad of specialties need to join forces to ask questions and piece together answers. At the University of Rochester, dentists, neuroscientists, surgeons, psychiatrists, anesthesiologists, nurse practitioners, and others are partnering to gain knowledge and insights that could transform treatment, care, and outcomes.

“I’ve never had any collaborative environment like here. Not everyone can work with you, but everybody will listen and try to find connections,” said Eli Eliav, DMD, PhD, MBA, director of the Eastman Institute for Oral Health at the University of Rochester. “To conduct pain research, a multidisciplinary approach is key. There will never be one molecule or one drug that will solve all the pain problems in the world."

The Team(s)

At the Neuromedicine Pain Center at the University of Rochester Medical Center, neurosurgeons, neurologists, and anesthesiologists partner to create the best care and treatment plans for patients. They also work with neuroscientists like Paul Geha, MD, associate professor of Psychiatry and Neuroscience and a member of the Del Monte Institute for Neuroscience.

He and Jennifer Gewandter, PhD, MPH, associate professor of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, along with neurosurgeon Steven Soler, MD, recruit people living with pain who are undergoing spinal cord stimulation—a surgery with an average success rate of 50 percent. Prior to implantation of a spinal cord stimulator, patients must undergo psychological testing to make sure important diagnoses, like PTSD or substance abuse, aren’t missed. Their research aims to add outcome prediction to the psychological clearance step with a more comprehensive test.

“Being able to work with Jennifer, who is an expert in clinical trials, helps us maintain that connection between the more mechanistic work we do on the research side with the actual applications in treatment,” Geha said.

Celebrating Addiction Professionals in our Department!

Friday, September 19, 2025

On September 20th, we recognize Addiction Professionals Day, a time to honor the dedication, compassion, and expertise of those who serve individuals, families, and communities impacted by substance use disorders.

Addiction Professionals Day was established in 1992 by NAADAC, the Association for Addiction Professionals, to highlight the critical role that counselors, clinicians, peer specialists, and all who work in the field play in promoting recovery, reducing stigma, and advancing evidence-based care. For over three decades, this day has been an opportunity to raise awareness of the profession’s value and celebrate the commitment of those who support some of the most vulnerable members of our communities.

The Department of Psychiatry has experienced tremendous growth in our Addiction Professionals, particularly our Credentialed Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) discipline. This year, Strong Recovery celebrates 52 years of dedicated substance use treatment services and employs the largest number of CASACs in our department and in the region! In 2017, when Strong Recovery, Strong Ties, and Pediatric Behavioral Health and Wellness became a certified community behavioral health clinic (CCBHC), substance use services were integrated into our OMH clinics, and our CASAC footprint continued to grow. Today, we celebrate the stable progress of expanding CASACs. We recognize the following clinical areas that integrate the CASAC discipline into their multidisciplinary teams: G-9200/SUMMITS, CPEP, Inpatient Psych, Older Adults, ACT, Strong Minds, and EAP. Most recently, we welcomed Westfall Associates into the Addiction Psychiatry division to offer more expansive substance use services located at Sully’s Trail. *Many of these talented professionals are pictured in our slideshow* View slideshow here: 2025 Addiction Professionals Day on Vimeo (a special thank you to Amanda Lai and Cari Hindman for creating this video!)

Additionally, in 2023, the Advanced Certificate in Addictions Counseling Program commenced and provides an educational opportunity designed for professionals in other disciplines to learn about substance use knowledge and obtain the necessary educational hours to become a CASAC-Trainee! 

Your work requires not only clinical skill but also deep empathy, resilience, and perseverance. Each of you plays a vital role in helping individuals build healthier lives, strengthening families, and creating more supportive communities. The impact of your work is profound, and today we pause to say thank you for your unwavering dedication.

Please take a moment to reflect on the meaningful difference you make each day. We are proud to work alongside you in advancing hope and healing.

Aileen Aldalur Receives K23 Award from National Institute of Mental Health

Monday, September 15, 2025

We're excited to share that Aileen Aldalur, PhD has been named a recipient of a Mentored Patient-Oriented Research Career Development Award (K23) from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)! 

The K23 award provides up to five years of support for researchers to develop patient-oriented research projects. Dr. Aldalur will be conducting a national clinical trial to test whether an adapted Zoom-based intervention, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Treatment Seeking for Deaf Individuals (Deaf CBT-TS), can improve beliefs about mental health treatment, increase mental health treatment engagement, and reduce suicide risk for Deaf adults.

What teenagers say will get them off their phones | WXXI Connections Podcast | Michael Scharf, MD

Wednesday, September 10, 2025

Michael Scharf, MD, spoke to WXXI News on the importance of balancing screen time with real-world interaction. “It’s easier to have more authentic reactions face to face,” Scharf said. “It’s easier to interpret context in person than it is over text or phone.”
 

Cell Phone Bans in Schools: What Parents Need to Know

Tuesday, September 9, 2025

Research from the Digital Wellness Lab suggests that reducing phone use during school can lift academic performance, promote face-to-face interaction, and lessen exposure to cyberbullying. Still, experts emphasize that building healthy tech habits isn’t just about school rules.

“Cell phones aren’t inherently ‘bad,’” says Melissa Heatly, PhD, a child psychologist at UR Medicine’s Golisano Children’s Hospital. “They’re powerful tools for communication and learning, but they can also be distracting and overwhelming for kids who are still developing self-regulation skills.”

Read more on UR Newroom: Cell Phone Bans in Schools: What Parents Need to Know

Dr. David Garrison Named 4-9000 Medical Director

Friday, September 5, 2025

Please join us in welcoming back Dr. David Garrison to the role of Medical Director for our Inpatient Child and Adolescent Psychiatry program! 

This is a role Dr. Garrison has held before, though our health system and acute services have evolved some since that time, with significant further changes anticipated in the coming years.  Dr. Garrison is our most senior in terms of years of service -Inpatient Child and Adolescent Attending Psychiatrist, with a history of generatively and excellence in patient care and in education.  He is coming into this role now with some exciting ideas and an established enthusiasm for innovation in the provision of the highest quality patient and family-centered care.

And please also join me in thanking Dr. Mani Kurien for his years of service in the Medical Director role.  Dr. Kurien is our second most senior CAP inpatient Attending and he has consistently been an outstanding clinician, collaborator, and team member, always ready to provide care for the most challenging and complicated patients and to lend a hand in times of crisis or workforce shortage.  It has been an honor and a pleasure to work with Dr. Kurien throughout the years- since he first came to UofR, really- and during his time as Medical Director on 49000.  Dr. Kurien has decided to focus his time more on direct patient care, continuing to work on 49000 and in our Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Division, where his patients and their families will continue to benefit from the excellent skills and experience he brings to that care.
 

Unraveling the Web of Chronic Pain

Thursday, August 28, 2025

How Transdisciplinary Pain Research Looks to the Brain for Answers

For Paul Geha, MD, pain and the brain exist in tandem. “All pain is psychological because we really need to be conscious to feel pain,” Geha said. “We feel pain with our brains, not with our knees and our backs, and in that sense, all pain is psychological. And all pain has a psychological component that is what we need to start with and understand that the injury model does not go far enough to explain the patient's problems.”

Read more on UR Newsroom: Unraveling the Web of Chronic Pain

Partnering with University of Buffalo For Training on Trauma-Informed Care

Thursday, August 21, 2025

Our various Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics partnered with the University of Buffalo’s Institute on Trauma and Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) to provide three offerings that were 3 hours in length. Programs that particated included Strong Recovery, Strong Ties, Strong Minds, Older Adults Mental Health Services, Pediatric Behavioral Health and Wellness program, and more!

The trainings provided a foundational overview of how psychological trauma and adversity may impact the health, mental health, and well-being of individuals. Participants also learned how they can use a trauma-informed approach in their roles with patients and the workforce to engage in universal precautions: applying the trauma-informed values and principles to reduce the likelihood of re-traumatization. Participants participated in a discussion and reflection through the use of a multi-part case study activity to apply the content to a situation relevant to their work. This presentation is appropriate for any staff role, as it will build a common language around trauma and a trauma-informed approach. 
 
This is the first phase of our TIC training initiative, and we look forward to learning more about this topic in the next year. 

Join Us for NAMI Walks 2025!

Friday, August 15, 2025

Our department is excited to once again participate in NAMI Walks Rochester, taking place on September 27th at 10 AM at a new location at Asbury First United Methodist Church!

We invite all to join our walking team for this year’s walk to support NAMI Rochester’s efforts to advocate for andsupport those affected by mental illness.

Click Here to Register for Our Walking Team

Can’t make it to the walk? You can support our team’s efforts by fundraising for NAMI Rochester or by sharing our walk team page and tagging us on Facebook, X, or Instagram!

Food trucks will be at the event for folks to purchase lunch, as well as complimentary coffee drinks and water. Parking will be available at the church parking lot as well as several overflow lots.

Click here to view the walk map.

Join us on Aug 14th for the opening of the renovated 4-9200 unit

Wednesday, August 13, 2025

We are excited to wrap up a major renovation of our fourth-floor Adult Inpatient Psychiatry unit (4-9200). This refreshed space will help us continue to provide a safe and supportive space for those who require stabilization for acute psychiatric illness in an inpatient setting. 

Watch the livestream of the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

How Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy Is Bringing Peace to Patients | UR Newsroom

Wednesday, August 13, 2025

Marc Swogger, PhD, an associate professor of Psychiatry and Palliative Care at URMC, is leading a four-year study cataloging ketamine-assisted psychotherapy practices—everything from low-dose nasal sprays with no therapy to Pal-KAP’s full integration model. 

Read UR Newsroom | How Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy Is Bringing Peace to Patients

School Year Stress: Acing the Back-to-School Season

Wednesday, August 13, 2025

Being prepared, mindful, and having the necessary tools to organize your family routines can help reduce your stress and anxiety. That's why we've created a go-to guide with resources and advice from experts—to help you feel prepared as the school year begins. Allison Stiles, PhD, and Melissa Heatly, PhD, provide tips on how parents can help make the transition to back-to-school easier. 

Read more on UR Newsroom: School Year Stress: Acing the Back-to-School Season

Pediatric Behavioral Health and Wellness Seeking Artwork from Young Artists

Tuesday, August 12, 2025

Pediatric Behavioral Health & Wellness invites all youth to submit artwork for an art show accompanying their Fall theater production of "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown." This year's show theme is "Happiness Is..." The submission deadline is September 27th. Those interested can drop off their artwork at the Child and Adolescent Outpatient Services front desk at 1860 South Avenue during normal business hours. Reach out to Caitlyn Wilcox for questions.

Representing URMC Psychiatry Nationally in July

Thursday, July 31, 2025

Craig Rooney, PhD contributed to a podium talk presented at the Association of Academic Medical Centers (AAMC)'s Group on Faculty Affairs (GFA) Professional Development Conference in Portland, Oregon. The presentation, "Individualized Coaching to Enhance Faculty Engagement, Leadership Skills, and Wellbeing," discussed an innovative one-on-one leadership development and coaching program aimed at fostering faculty engagement, career and leadership development, and improvement in overall job satisfaction and well-being. 

Yeates Conwell, MD also was a speaker at the Tehran University of Medical Sciences' virtual International Online Symposium on Suicide from an Interdisciplinary Perspective on the 24th. He discussed Brain Aging, Emotional Well-being, and Suicide Risk in Later Life.

AD-CARE Shares Alzheimer's Research and Resources in the Rochester Community

Monday, July 28, 2025

The Alzheimer's Disease Care, Research, and Education Program had a busy month this July, sharing information on the latest Alzheimer's research and resources throughout Rochester.

Events they participated in include the following: 

Henrietta Senior Center's ‘Walk with a Doc’ day, an event for seniors to get some steps in and be able to ask providers questions. 

The Helen Barrett Montgomery School's Health and Wellness Fair, an event aimed at bringing vital health services and education directly to the community. 

A celebration of participants involved in the AHEAD Study,  a four-year clinical trial of lecanemab for preventing Alzheimer's in those with a higher risk of developing the disease. With a number of participants reaching the four-year and two-year mark of the study, AD-CARE held a small discussion about recent research updates, the progression of research studies, and answered any questions the participants had. 

An Overlooked Demographic Has the Highest Suicide Risk — and It’s Been Rising

Friday, July 18, 2025

While much of the discussion about mental health in the U.S. has been focused on the growing needs of children and teens, research is finding that another group is often overlooked- older men.
Yeates Conwell, MD was among the experts who spoke with STAT on some of the reasons behind the rise in suicides in this group.

Read More: An Overlooked Demographic Has the Highest Suicide Risk — and It’s Been Rising

Golisano Children’s Hospital Celebrates 10 Years of Changing Lives

Thursday, July 17, 2025

On July 17, Golisano Children’s Hospital (GCH) families, employees, and leadership celebrates its 10^th year anniversary, a milestone reflected in the significant growth GCH has made toward providing comprehensive health services to children in the Finger Lakes region and beyond.

Read more: Golisano Children’s Hospital Celebrates 10 Years of Changing Lives | URMC Newsroom 

Burnout, Mental Health & Self-Compassion: Lessons from Medicine for All of Us | URMC Newsroom

Wednesday, July 16, 2025

Burnout and mental health challenges affect people in every walk of life. The constant pressure to do more can take a serious toll, especially for high-achievers who tie success to their self-worth.

Read more: Burnout, Mental Health & Self-Compassion: Lessons from Medicine for All of Us | URMC Newsroom

Stephanie Bruder Named Lead Administrator for Space Management and Planning

Thursday, July 10, 2025

We are excited to announce that Stephanie Bruder has been promoted to the position of Lead Administrator for Space Mgt/Planning and Project Implementation, effective 7/16/25.  Stephanie joined the University in 2016 and transitioned to Psychiatry 2 years later.  She has served in various administrative roles in the department, with her most recent role being the administrator for our inpatient/crisis services.

In her new role, Stephanie will provide oversight, establish administrative procedures, coordinate, and implement space management and planning activities for the department. She will work collaboratively with liaisons from the Medical Center's Space Planning Office. Stephanie will also lead larger project implementations in the department in collaboration with other leaders accordingly.  As her first official assignment of her new role, she has been appointed to the Operational Readiness Core team for the Strong Expansion/ED Tower Project, which will include a new expanded CPEP.  Stephanie brings the right blend of knowledge, skills, and attitude to this new central position for the department.

Over the next several weeks, Stephanie will work with Kristina Washington on a thoughtful and gradual transition plan of her current duties for inpatient/crisis.  They will ensure there are no significant gaps through this process. Please join us in congratulating Stephanie on her exciting new role in the Department of Psychiatry!

How to Manage Anxiety | URMC Newsroom

Wednesday, July 9, 2025

Try these simple, everyday tools to soothe your mind and body.

For some, anxiety comes and goes. For others, it lingers, feeling like a revving engine that never slows. Anxiety can show up as racing thoughts, a pounding heart, or the sense that something terrible is approaching.

Read URMC Newsroom - How to Manage Anxiety

Leadership Transitions in HEAL Collaborative

Monday, July 7, 2025

We are pleased to announce an important leadership transition within our HEAL Collaborative program. Effective July 1st, Dr. Vicky Atzl has assumed the role of Director. Dr. Atzl brings a wealth of clinical and research expertise to this position and has served as Assistant Director over the past year. We are excited to have her lead this dedicated team forward.

Dr. Kristen Holderle has served as Director of the HEAL Collaborative since 2021. She is transitioning to focus more on her consultation work. Dr. Holderle has made tremendous contributions to the HEAL program, and we are deeply grateful for her leadership and dedication. 

Please join us in welcoming Dr. Atzl to her new role and in expressing our sincere appreciation to Dr. Holderle for her outstanding service.

Join us for the 2025 Summer Brown Bag Series - Refilling Your Cup: Collective Approaches to Mental Well-being

Thursday, July 3, 2025

Registration is now open for the July sessions of the Department of Psychiatry's 2025 Summer Brown Bag Series, "Refilling Your Cup: Collective Approaches to Mental Well-being!" 

This series will focus on incorporating non-traditional forms of healing into your toolkit for wellbeing and will take place on Wednesdays at noon throughout the summer. CEUs and CMEs available.

Please note our first session takes place on July 9th, featuring LaVerne Hanes Collins, PhD. 
As always, attending fulfills one of your annual required credits.

Help us spread the word! 
Share our announcement on Facebook, Instagram, and X, or share the attached image on the platforms you are on. 

Read More: Join us for the 2025 Summer Brown Bag Series - Refilling Your Cup: Collective Approaches to Mental Well-being

What to Do if You Need Mental Health Help Now | URMC Newsroom

Monday, June 30, 2025

Online Mental Health Services: When You Can’t Wait

When a mental health crisis strikes, time matters. Thanks to UR Medicine’s online mental health services, you get instant access to expert mental healthcare at home, at work, or on the go. Our licensed mental health professionals have experience and expertise in crisis intervention. They’re available to help you work through difficult situations with open-minded compassion.

Learn more about how to access Virtual Mental Health Urgent Care and UR Medicine Emergency Mental Health Services.

Read What to Do if You Need Mental Health Help Now | URMC Newsroom

New Research Awards: Supporting Healthy Child
Development & Growing Local Healthcare Workforce

Thursday, June 26, 2025

The Department of Psychiatry has recently received an announcement of two federal grants.

Common Mechanisms Linking Pre- and Post-Natal Exposures for Child Health Outcomes

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has awarded $1.6-1.8 million per year over five years to extend its support for groundbreaking research on child health and development. Thomas O’Connor, PhD is the principal investigator for the project, “Common Mechanisms Linking Pre- and Post-Natal Exposures for Child Health Outcomes.”

This initiative continues the NIH’s longstanding investment in the Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) Program, which investigates how early environmental factors impact child health. The research will focus on key areas, including Pre-, Peri-, and Postnatal Health, Upper and Lower Airways, Neurodevelopment, Obesity, and Positive Health.

This work underscores the University of Rochester’s commitment to advancing knowledge and improving health outcomes for children.

Graduate Psychology Education Programs

The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) has awarded $449,973 per year over the next three years (for a total of $1.3 million) to continue efforts in growing the local healthcare workforce trained in treating Opioid Use Disorders (OUDs), Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) and other behavioral health challenges in Monroe County.

Caroline Easton, PhD serves as the principal investigator on this project. Specifically, this grant will support our APA-accredited “Rochester Priority Behavioral Health Internship Training Program” to train 18 additional doctoral psychology interns with a focus on integration of care, trauma-centered care, OUD/SUD, and mental health services for high-demand, underserved populations. This award will also support the addition of new initiatives in the program focused on integration of care, social determinants of health, provider resiliency, and the use of evidence based digital therapies/digital tools as well as tele-behavioral health.

Representing URMC Psychiatry Nationally in June

Wednesday, June 25, 2025

Psychiatry members recently presented at national conferences.

Victoria Pezzino, PsyD of our Postdoctoral Fellowship in Suicide Prevention program and our Addiction Psychiatry division recently presented at the College on Problems of Drug Dependence's national conference in New Orleans!

She shared her research project, "Assessing Substance Using- Depressed Young Adults' Alliance and Engagement with a Digital Avatar CBT Platform (RITch®CBT)," a digital platform to decrease addiction and prevent suicide.

Daniel Maeng, PhD also presented two posters at AcademyHealth's 2025 Annual Research Meeting in Minneapolis. Dr. Maeng discussed research from the following projects: 

"30-Month Impact of Medications for Opioid Use Disorder on Acute Care Utilization in Rural Communities" by Daniel Maeng, PhD; Holly A. Russell, MD (Department of Family Medicine), Kenneth R. Conner, PsyD MPH (Department of Emergency Medicine), Jade Malcho, MD, Wendi Cross, PhD, and Hochang B. Lee, MD

"Disparities in Use of Benzodiazepine and Medications for Opioid Use Disorder between Urban and Rural Medicare Beneficiaries with Opioid Use Disorder since COVID-19 Pandemic" by Daniel Maeng, PhD, Hugh Crean, PhD, Lisham Ashrafioun, PhD

Marsha Wittink, MD presented "Pioneering the Design and Function of Medical-Psychiatry Units (MPUs): Bridging Acute Medical and Mental Health for Whole-person Care" alongside Virginia Pankey, Behavioral Health Practice Leader at HoK Architects, at the International Design in Mental Health Conference in Manchester, United Kingdom on June 3rd. 

This year, we also had a record number of faculty and residents attend and present at the annual meeting for the Association for Directors of Medical Student Education of Psychiatry (ADMSEP) at Cambridge, Massachusetts from June 19th to 21st. 

Grace Ro, MD, Sungsu Lee, MD, Margaret Puelle, MD, Laura Cardella, MD presented a poster- "Clinician Educator Tracks: A Review of Existing Programs and a Proposal for URMC’s New Teacher Pathway." 
Annabel Fu, MD, and Laura Cardella, MD presented a poster- "Teaching Medical Students to Identify Biopsychosocial Factors in the Preclinical Curriculum."
Annabel Fu, MD et al presented a conference workshop- "Test Question Development for Pre-Clinical Psychiatry Course Assessments."
Laura Cardella, MD et al presented a conference workshop- "Calm in the Storm: Mastering De-escalation For Students and Effective Debriefing for Faculty," and a conference workshop- "Getting the Most Out of ADMSEP: Optimizing Mentoring Relationships in Professional Societies Discussion. 

Last but not least, several members in Psychiatry presented posters at the 4th Annual Better Teams. Better Care. Symposium.

Shifra Mincer, MD, and Marsha Wittink, MD had a poster entitled: “Improving Discussions About Contraceptives for High-Risk Patients on Medical-Psychiatry Units” 

Lorraine Schild, NP, Nicole Fulle, MS RN, Elaine Rigney, MD, Kevin Brazill, MD, and Marsha Wittink, MD had a poster entitled “What Matters to Patients: Improving Transitions in Care by Incorporating Patient Priorities.” 

How to Help a Loved One Struggling with Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors | CSRP Webinar

Wednesday, June 25, 2025

How to Help a Loved One Struggling with Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors

Tony Pisani, PhD joined colleagues from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Catholic University of America, and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health in a webinar on approaching loved ones who are struggling with thoughts of suicide, especially when they don't want help.

Celebrating Our Trainees at Key Day 2025

Monday, June 23, 2025

On June 11th, we held Key Day, the annual celebration of our trainees as they graduate from their educational programs and step into the next phase of their professional careers!

Congratulations to all our graduates!

View List of 2025 Key Day Awards

Rewatch Video of 2025 Key Day Ceremony 

Screen Time and the Developing Brain: Are ‘iPad Kids’ at Risk? | UR Newsroom

Friday, June 20, 2025

Kids and Screen Time: What We Know

Studies show that high screen exposure in children can contribute to:

• Attention difficulties

• Challenges with social interaction

• Shifts in how motivation is experienced

Over time, children with excessive screen use may struggle in social settings, show less engagement with caregivers, and have trouble regulating their behavior.

Read Screen Time and the Developing Brain: Are ‘iPad Kids’ at Risk? | UR Newsroom

Addiction Psychiatry Division Update

Thursday, June 19, 2025

We are excited to formally announce recent developments to the clinical leadership structure and service within our Addiction Psychiatry Division.

Itza Morales, MSB, CASAC, was promoted to the role of Senior Director of Clinical Operations in the Addiction Psychiatry Division.  Itza took over this role earlier this spring, and in it, she has operational oversight for all the clinics under the umbrella of Strong Recovery.  This includes the Opioid Treatment Program (OTP), the Adult Chemical Dependency clinic (SRCD), the Adolescent/Young Adult clinic (AYA), and the Substance Use Disorder-Primary Care program (SUD-PC).  Itza is approaching 34 years of service with the University, 26 of which have been within the Department of Psychiatry.  

She started in Strong Recovery in 2008 as a Sr. Counselor and has been in various leadership roles for the past 10 years.  Most recently, Itza was the Co-Director of Clinical Operations with Julie Achtyl.  Along with this promotion to Senior Director, Itza worked with Dr. Mathis and I to adjust the leadership structure of Strong Recovery to adequately support the robust services in each of the clinics, which are also part of the Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC).  This restructure includes the promotion of 3 Clinical Coordinators to Managers of Clinical Program Operations for each of the clinics in Strong Recovery.  Itza will also continue in her role as the Department’s Staff Wellness Officer.  

The new Managers of Clinical Program Operations for Strong Recovery are as follows:

• Janine Coppini, MA, MPA, LMHC, CASAC is being promoted to be the Manager of Clinical Program Operations for the Adolescent/Young Adult clinic and Integrated Services.  Janine has been in Strong Recovery for over 6 years and in a leadership role since 2019.  She has been a Clinical Supervisor and Clinical Coordinator for Strong Recovery’s Co-Occurring Disorders team and the Adolescent/Young Adult clinic.
• Kelly Vandermark, MS, CASAC is being promoted to be the Manager of Clinical Program Operations for the Adult Chemical Dependency clinic and Access/Outreach services, including the SUD-PC.  Kelly has been in Strong Recovery for over 15 years and in a leadership role since 2019.  She has been a Clinical Supervisor and Clinical Coordinator for Strong Recovery’s Intake Team and the SUD-PC team.
• Lauren Smith-Friedman, LMSW, CASAC is being promoted to be the Manager of Clinical Program Operations for the Opioid Treatment Program (OTP).  Lauren has been in Strong Recovery for over 17 years and in a leadership role since 2017.  She has been a Clinical Supervisor and Clinical Coordinator for Strong Recovery’s OTP, providing different levels of clinical leadership.

In addition to celebrating these new leadership roles, the Addiction Psychiatry Division has expanded to include the URMC Westfall Practice, with medical and clinical leadership overseen by Dr. Myra Mathis as Clinical Chief and Itza Morales as Senior Director. As the practice transitions to Addiction Psychiatry, we want to thank Dr. George Nasra and our Collaborative Care and Wellness (CCW) Division for supporting the Westfall team through the acquisition process and during the initial phases of their integration into URMC and the Department of Psychiatry.  We are excited to see the continued development of the Westfall Practice under the Addiction Psychiatry umbrella.  Please join me and Dr. Mathis in celebrating the continued growth of addiction psychiatry and congratulating these outstanding clinical leaders on their new roles!!!!
 

Golisano Behavioral Health Center Marks 5 Years of Transforming Youth Mental Health Care

Tuesday, June 17, 2025

Our Golisano Pediatric Behavioral Health and Wellness Center on South Avenue celebrated its five-year anniversary on June 12th. Tours were provided for supporters and families with remarks by Mike Scharf, MD, Chief of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Jill Halterman, Physician-in-Chief at Golisano Children’s Hospital.

See below for some of the coverage of the anniversary! 

• Golisano Behavioral Health Center marks 5 years of transforming youth mental health care (13WHAM ABC)
• Golisano Behavioral Health and Wellness Center celebrates 5 years (Rochesterfirst)
• Golisano Behavioral Health and Wellness Center celebrates five-year anniversary (WHEC)
• Lauren Opladen's Story

Jennifer West, PhD featured on WXXI Connections: How to communicate about firearm safety

Friday, June 13, 2025

FIPP co-director, Jennifer West, PhD, was joined by Strong Pediatric Practice pediatrician, Crystal Craig, MD, MPH, and the Strong Pediatric Trauma Program Manager, Adam Oplinger, BS, RN, CEN, TCRN, on WXXI’s radio talk show, Connections with Evan Dawson.

The group discussed the importance of secure firearm storage and highlighted ASK Day, a national effort that takes place each year on June 21 to encourage caregivers to ask about firearms in the spaces where their children spend time. 

Brighter Days Pediatric Mental Health Urgent Care Receives Two Design Awards

Wednesday, June 11, 2025

The Brighter Days Pediatric Mental Health Urgent Care Center was awarded two design awards in May. Dwyer Architectural submitted for and won the CSI Rochester Chapter's Owner Collaboration Award and the Rochester chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA)'s 2025 Citation Award.

The Owner Collaboration Award celebrated architecture, construction, and engineering projects utilizing exemplary communication to support successful outcomes.

The 2025 Citation Award spotlighted the clinic's incorporation of nature and design to create a functional, safe, and welcoming environment for children in need of mental health services. 

We're proud to have this healing space right in our walls! 

Board Excellence Awards Honor URMC Faculty and Staff for Outstanding Service

Wednesday, June 4, 2025

The UR Medicine Quality Institute and URMC Board joined together to celebrate the recipients of the 2024-25 Board Excellence Awards, acknowledging their remarkable contributions to patient care and teamwork. Led by Medical Center CEO David Linehan, MD, the annual awards ceremony took place on May 29 at Monroe Golf Club, honoring nine individuals, nine teams, four recipients of the Dr. Robert Joynt Kindness Award, and one lifetime achievement award. In his remarks, Dr. Linehan expressed heartfelt gratitude to the awardees for their dedication, emphasizing their pivotal role in caring for patients and serving the broader community. 

“In health care, accolades are not the primary motivator,” Linehan said. “People choose this path because they are driven by a genuine desire to help others and serve their community. Despite the challenges inherent in health care careers, our honorees demonstrate unwavering dedication and resilience, traits that are evident in all our winners.” 

Chief Medical Officer Michael Apostolakos, MD, echoed those sentiments, spotlighting the achievements of both individuals and teams who exemplify the collaborative and compassionate spirit of health care.  “We celebrate those who shine brightly in every aspect of their work,” Apostolakos said. “Their dedication to our patients, coupled with their collaborative spirit among colleagues, is truly commendable. Each day, they strive for excellence, continuously seeking ways to enhance URMC's impact on the health of our community and our collective well-being.” 

View 2024-25 Board Excellence Awards

4-9000 and CPEP Recognized by SWAT Youth Council

Friday, May 23, 2025

Our 4-9000 Child/Adolescent Inpatient Social Work team and CPEP team (made up of clinical evaluators and mental health assistants) were recognized by the SWAT Youth Council at their Got Dreams Annual Celebration. They were nominated by the Family Access and Connection Team (FACT) whom they partner with to link youth and families with local mental health resources. 

The award particularly highlighted the teams’ work in supporting the Monroe County System of Health and youth mental health. Both our CPEP and the 4900 teams play a crucial role in engaging youth and families in their behavioral health journey, while embracing community partners and voices!

Courtyard a Breath of Fresh Air for Psychiatry Patients, Staff

Wednesday, May 21, 2025

Fresh air can be therapeutic, and perhaps no one knows this better than patients admitted for long hospital stays.

Thanks to a collaboration between Psychiatry and Medical Center Space Planning, Strong has a new area dedicated to giving adult inpatients on Psychiatry units 9000 and 9200 the chance to get outside as part of their care and recovery.

You might know this courtyard, located on the ground level across from the ID badge office and former Metro Deli. It has been used by many staff as an informal outdoor break area to date, but since Metro Deli closed during the pandemic, foot traffic in that area has decreased, and the indoor seating area has served as a break room for Facilities staff.

Starting June 1, swipe access to enter the courtyard will be limited to staff who care for Psych patients. While this area will be dedicated to patient care, there are still outdoor seating options for staff in areas including the courtyard at GCH, outside Flaum Atrium, as well as benches and tables along Crittenden Blvd. near Helen Wood Hall and Saunders Research Building.

Psychiatry first approached UR Space Planning to ask if the Metro courtyard, one of very few green spaces around the Medical Center and conveniently located near Behavioral Health, could be dedicated to their patients. The answer was a resounding yes.

“We are so glad to have leadership’s support for this courtyard project,” said Amber Foster, senior director URMC Space Design & Administrative Services. “It is a hidden gem and we are grateful to our staff for cooperating with the change, which will add value to the care we provide.”

The clinical care teams are excited about the possibilities. Hochang (Ben) Lee, MD, said many patients are admitted for 10 days or longer. “This is a great advancement for patients to be able to get out and get fresh air,” Lee said. “Taking a walk and getting some sunshine, especially during the summer, adds great benefit, so this is an exciting development that’s also relatively low cost.”

There are no plans for new amenities yet, and Lee said things will start simple as the team finds balance between safe, supervised outdoor time in the space. Some things they’re considering are sport or exercise equipment, and possibly some raised garden beds. There are already picnic tables and seating around the courtyard, and shade from a tree.

Opening the courtyard to patients comes at a time when capacity is high among the roughly 80 inpatient Psych beds and 30 Med-Psych beds. There are additional ALC patients on the units and they often stay for months at a time, explained Patrick Seche, program administrator for Psychiatry. He said that with longer lengths of stay, patients can be on a locked unit with no opportunity to do anything outdoors. “Having this space will make a significant positive impact on the care we provide,” said Seche. “It won’t apply to every patient, but those who can will have a place to do so in a safe way.”

The sentiment was echoed by Psychiatry’s Director of Nursing Courtney Blackwood, who is excited by the possibilities provided by an outdoor space.

“This gives us the opportunity to promote therapeutic healing, foster social connections and encourage physical activity,” said Blackwood. “These benefits play a vital role in enhancing the overall patient care experience leading to recovery.”  

Stephanie Bruder is Psychiatry’s administrator for Crisis and Acute Inpatient Services. She said the care teams work hard to provide resources for mental health patients to improve their outcomes and until now, were limited in where they could provide supervised activities.

“Usually if a patient is with a staff member outside, they are getting discharged,” Bruder said. “The outdoor space will serve as another resource—it’s a very large win for the clinical teams. It is exciting for the whole department to be a part of that and to watch it grow.”

The Aging Mind

Tuesday, May 13, 2025

People may consider sadness as just part of getting older. However, studies show that one in four older adults lives with a mental illness, including depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders..

Dr. Yeates Conwell spoke with Call to Mind on suicide in older adults and models to address this public health challenge.

Yeates Conwell speaks to WNYC-FM about mental health conditions in older adults

Saturday, May 10, 2025

Yeates Conwell, MD, spoke to WNYC-FM (May 10) about untreated mental health conditions in older adults and how they can become deadly. “Being connected to other people is a necessity, and absent those connections, people can become at greater risk for suicide,” Conwell said. “Older people are particularly prone to that because of changes of all sorts.”

Tanya Tran Receives Canadian Institute of Health Research Health Research Training

Tuesday, May 6, 2025

Tanya Tran, PhD was recently named a grantee of the Canadian Institute of Health Research's Health Research Training award.

This award aims to develop the next generation of scientific, professional, and organizational leaders by supporting post-doctoral/post-health-degree health research in Canada or abroad over the next three years.

Dr. Tran's project, "Psychotherapy for Motivation Symptoms: Evaluating A New Skills Training Approach to Preventing Psychosis in Youth," will introduce and determine the outcomes for Motive-Action, an innovative psychotherapy program targeting motivation symptoms - a significant hurdle in psychosis prevention.

Expanded School Mental Health Collaboration To Be Honored With "What's Great In Our State" Child Mental Health Awards

Saturday, May 3, 2025

The Expanded School Mental Health collaboration with the Rochester City School District is being honored at New York State's "What's Great In Our State" Child Mental Health awards on May 5th.

The "What's Great in Our State" program is an annual celebration of children's mental health awareness, recognizing individuals, schools, and organizations making a difference in the field. 

 Dr. Heatly will present alongside Crystal Clark (RCSD Director of Student Support Services) about the Rochester City School District's innovative "Village Approach" to promoting children's mental health and wellness.  This "village approach" represents the success of collaborative efforts between RCSD and URMC's Department of Psychiatry, GCH's Department of Pediatrics, Rochester Regional Health, the New York State Office of Mental Health, and others. Key Psychiatry faculty contributing to this program include Melissa Heatly, PhD, Allison Stiles, PhD, Linda Alpert-Gillis, PhD, Laura Shipley, MD, and Jeffrey Kaczarowski, MD.

Representing URMC Psychiatry Nationally and Internationally in April

Thursday, May 1, 2025

Psychiatry staff and faculty members recently presented at national and international conferences.
Several Child and Adolescent Psychiatry team members recently presented at the Pediatric Academic Society 2025 meeting in Honolulu, Hawaii. 

• Linda Alpert-Gillis, PhD, and Michael Scharf, MD presented a poster discussing the Brighter Days Pediatric Mental Health Urgent Care as a new model to address the pediatric mental health crisis. 
• Alison Stiles, PhD, LJ Shipley, MD, Jeff Kaczorowski, MD, and Dr. Scharf presented at the conference's Behavioral Health Special Interest Group. 
• Arielle Sheftall, PhD and Dakota Daniels, BA, and Jenson Rowan, BA of the Sheftall Lab presented the following posters respectively: Discrepancies in Reporting of Suicidal Behaviors: An Exploration in Preteen Youth, Pediatric Mental Health: Investigating the Link Between Obsessive-Compulsive Symptoms and Self-injury and Parent Maltreatment History: Investigating Youth’s Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors.

Craig Rooney, PhD coauthored a presentation discussing psychologist’s roles, skills, and joys in supporting healthcare professional wellbeing in academic health centers.This presentation was highlighted at the 2025 Association of Psychologists in Academic Health Centers (APAHC) Conference's at St. Petersburg, Florida. 

Marsha Wittink, MD will be joining Virginia Pankey, AIA, LEED AP, EDAC of HOK Design Group to present "Pioneering the Design and Function of Medical Psychiatry Units" at the annual Design in Mental Health Conference in Manchester, UK in June. This interdisciplinary event brings together individuals with lived experience and their families, along with clinicians, health system leaders, and designers, all working to improve mental health spaces and care delivery.

BHP Blog: Finding Clarity in Complexity: Small Steps to Big Solutions

Thursday, May 1, 2025

The May blog from Behavioral Health Partners highlights the power of narrative therapy and discusses how “the next right step” can help you regain your footing and step into clarity.

Read BHP Blog: Finding Clarity in Complexity: Small Steps to Big Solutions

Join Pediatric Behavioral Health and Wellness for Stroll for Strong Kids!

Wednesday, April 30, 2025

The 2025 Stroll for Strong Kids will take place on May 31st!

Pediatric Behavioral Health and Wellness will once again have a stroll team walking to raise funds to support child and adolescent psychiatry services.  

Support the team's efforts by: 

• Joining Team Pediatric Behavioral Health & Wellness to walk with us in the stroll. 
• Donating to our Team (Pediatric Behavioral Health & Wellness).
• Share the walk information and team page on social media! 
• Participate in the team Bottle & Can Drive: 
  Pediatric Behavioral Health & Wellness is teaming up with Upstate Bottle Return again this year to raise funds for the Stroll for Strong Kids- From now through June 30th, return your recyclables to any Upstate Bottle Return location, and they will match 1¢ for every 5¢ return. When you drop off your recyclables, let them know they are for Pediatric Behavioral Health & Wellness. Click here for a list of Upstate Bottle Return locations. 

Myra Mathis, MD receives Courage to Heal Award

Tuesday, April 29, 2025

Myra Mathis, MD, was honored by Thomas Jefferson University as a pioneer in compassionate and patient-centered care. Dr. Mathis presented the Courage to Heal Medicine Grand Rounds at the university in February as part of the award ceremony. An addiction psychiatrist, Mathis serves as medical director for Strong Recovery, UR Medicine’s outpatient dual-diagnosis clinic, which offers an opioid treatment program and a full range of addiction and psychiatric services. University News April 28, 2025

Introducing Our New Instagram Page!

Monday, April 28, 2025

Introducing our new Instagram page!

In addition to Facebook and X, you can now find the latest news from UR Medicine Mental Health & Wellness on Instagram at urmc_psych!

Follow us on Instagram 

Faculty News: Representing URMC Psychiatry Nationally and Internationally

Thursday, April 3, 2025

Several of the Psychiatry staff and faculty members recently presented at national and international conferences.

Our Psychiatry team recently stopped by the American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry's (AAGP) 2025 Annual Meeting in Phoenix, Arizona.

Presenters included the following: 

• Yeates Conwell, MD, Kim van Orden, PhD, Grace Ro, MD, EJ Santos, MD- "Suicide Risk Assessment for Geriatric Mental Health: Protocol Design and Implementation" 
• Sungsu Lee, MD, PhD- "Medical Emergencies in Inpatient Psychiatry: Prevalence of Medical Transfers from Inpatient Psychiatric Units at an Academic Medical Center" Poster Session
• Grace Ro, MD- "Group-Based Music Interventions for Older Adults with Dementia: A Review"

• Kim Van Orden, PhD- "Mental Health Concerns of the Unpaid and Paid Dementia Caregiver Workforce," "Article Highlights from the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry" 

EJ Santos, MD presented the AAGP's Annual Meeting welcoming reception as the AAGP Acting President.

J. Steven Lamberti, MD, presented two talks at the Academic Consortium on Criminal Justice Health (ACCJH) meeting in Austin, Texas, on March 17th- "Forensic Assertive Community Treatment(FACT): An Emerging Best Practice" and "A Randomized Controlled Trial of the Rochester Forensic Assertive Community Treatment (FACT) Model."

On March 21st, Brian Keane, PhD presented at Princeton University Thalamus Conte Center's Scientific Meeting. His talk discussed thalamic and cortical sensory dysconnectivity as a biomarker for psychosis. 

Last but not least, William Watson, PhD gave a two-hour virtual presentation to residents at the Stony Brook Medicine Department of Neurology, discussing Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Attacks.

Elizabeth J. Santos, MD delivered president speech at Annual AAGP Meeting

Thursday, April 3, 2025

Dr. Santos is the new President of the American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry (AAGP) and a leader in the field of Geriatric Psychiatry. She delivered the president's speech at the annual AAGP meeting in March 2025. 

MIPS Holds Second Annual Retreat

Wednesday, April 2, 2025

The Medicine in Psychiatry Services division held its second retreat on March 6th, themed Stronger Together: Enhancing Our Team-Based Approach to Care.

Staff and faculty from our three service settings- IMIPS, SUMMITS, and MIPS- Primary Care- kicked off the day with a pre-retreat field trip to visit community sites our patients rely on, including transitional housing, Street Medicine Services, and Recovery All Ways. 

The retreat continued at the Memorial Art Gallery, where we explored how art can inform our work and learned from experts in pain processing therapy. Through interactive workshops, we strengthened interdisciplinary communication, built trust, and reaffirmed our shared mission. 

BHP Blog: No Rules Just Write: A New Approach to Journaling

Tuesday, April 1, 2025

Anxiety, depression, and trauma can all contribute to repetitive thoughts and negative self-talk. You may experience the same worry over and over, stress about anything that doesn’t go as planned, or continuously come up with new “evidence” that suggests no one likes you. Persistently replaying the same concerns in your mind – also called ruminating – can lead to an emotional downward spiral and a sense of feeling stuck. Writing in a journal can help you break this cycle.

Read BHP Blog: No Rules Just Write: A New Approach to Journaling

Match Day 2025

Friday, March 21, 2025

Happy #MatchDay25!! Today medical students around the U.S. find out where they will spend the next four years in residency gaining practical experience in their field. Please join us in welcoming our 2025 class of Psychiatry residents to Rochester!

• Kelyn Chen (Rutgers University)
• Abraham Choe -University of Rochester
• Grace DiGiovanni- University of New England
• Alana Hull- Virginia Tech
• Vivian Lee- Drexel University
• Jennifer Marino- University of Massachusetts 
• Abigail Shilvock- Cornell University
• Olivia Waldman- University of Buffalo

In addition, a huge congratulations to the medical students with whom we have been able to spend time during their clerkships! The following students will be continuing their careers in psychiatry at residencies across the U.S.

• Zonia Ali - Eastern Connecticut Health Network
• Vincent Betti- Boston University Medical Center-MA
• Abe Choe- University of Rochester Medical Center
• Eliane Grace-  Medical College of Wisconsin Affiliate Hospitals (Med. Psych) 
• Anysia Lee- University at Buffalo SOM-NY
• Meredith Pescatello- Brown University/Rhode Island Hospital, Triple Board
• Catherine Pizzarello- Ohio State University Med Center (Psych/research)
• Kaden Zellers- SUNY Upstate Medical University

Psychology Training Program Wins CCaPPTC Award

Tuesday, March 11, 2025

The URMC Clinical Psychology Doctoral Internship and Postdoctoral Fellowship program recently received the Program Excellence in Training Award from the Clinical Child and Pediatric Psychology Training Council (CCaPPTC). Dr. Jennifer West is the Director of Training and Dr. Kristen Holderle is the Associate Director.

Representing URMC Psychiatry Nationally and Internationally

Saturday, March 8, 2025

Several of the Psychiatry staff and faculty members recently presented at national and international conferences.

Caroline Easton, PhD, Lee Ashrafioun, PhD, Alex Barrette, Holly Russell, MD, and Melissa Heatly, PhD will be presenting at the Rural Centers of Excellence on Substance Use Disorders (RCORP) Reverse Site Visit in Washington D.C. in early March. This event featured networking with other Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) grantees as well as discussions regarding best practices in opioid use and substance use disorder interventions.

Andrea Garroway, PhD recently presented at the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education’s Annual Educational Conference in Tennessee. This session discussed communication coaching in internal medicine.

William Watson, PhD, alongside Danish colleague Emil Rask, PhD, presented a two-hour webinar, "Using ISTDP with Children and Adolescents: Two Clinical Case Examples," to 175 members of the International Experiential Dynamic Therapy Association on February (IEDTA). An earlier version of this seminar was presented at the IEDTA’s biennial conference in San Diego last year.

The Research and Health Equity Symposium featured a poster co-authored by our IMIP team- Elaine Rigney, MD, Lorraine Schild, NP, Nicole Fulle, MS, RN, Kevin Brazill, DO, Brock Scoville, and Marsha Wittink, MD- and presented by undergraduate Harrison Eck.

Corey Nichols-Hadeed, JD and Jennifer West, PhD, alongside Eric Perkins of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, presented at the Upstate Elder Abuse Center at Lifespan’s NYS E-MDT Initiative Webinar Series, a two-part series on firearm safety and dementia. They discussed aws related to firearms, safe storage of firearms and legacy planning of these firearms.

Janeen Thompson Named CCW Assistant Director, Business Administration

Wednesday, March 5, 2025

We are pleased to formally announce that Janeen Thompson will be transitioning into the role of Assistant Director, Business Administration for our Division of Collaborative Care and Wellness. Janeen has been providing exceptional support in fiscal management and administrative operations for the division on an interim basis since September, and we are thrilled that she has decided to continue in this role long-term.

Janeen’s primary office will be located at Sully’s Trail, with regular time spent at Strong Memorial Hospital.

With over 30 years of experience in healthcare, Janeen brings a wealth of expertise to this position. Her background includes serving as a Board-Certified Music Therapist specializing in Alzheimer’s Disease in long-term care settings, leading integrated care teams in hospice and PACE programs, and most recently serving as a Practice Manager for the Geriatric Division. Outside of her professional responsibilities, Janeen is an active volunteer with Scouting USA, where she has served as a Scoutmaster for an all-boy troop and enjoys mentoring volunteers on leadership and team-building. She is also dedicated to her family, who graciously supports her enthusiasm for "Forced Family Fun."

We are excited to have Janeen in this new role and look forward to her continued contributions to the CCW Division. Please join me in congratulating Janeen on this well-deserved opportunity.

Additional Patient Access to Mental Healthcare Through URMC Virtual Network

Tuesday, March 4, 2025

The Virtual Urgent Care service has extended its care to patients who need mental health services. Virtual Mental Health Urgent Care offers a convenient alternative for patients in need of prompt mental health support in situations that would otherwise wait until an appointment becomes available with their mental health provider.

The URMC Department of Psychiatry’s Chief Administrative Officer, Patrick Seche, MS, CASAC, emphasizes the importance of leveraging UR Medicine’s resources and clinical expertise to address the mental health needs of the community. “Adding this virtual component to our crisis services for children and adults is a significant step towards those efforts. Kudos to our team of providers, clinical leaders, and administrators for working diligently with the project team for a successful implementation.”

The service is available to patients aged 5 and older residing in New York State and is ideal for those who are experiencing non-emergent - but imminent - symptoms of mental health concerns, such as anxiety attacks or depressive episodes, and are unable to be seen by their mental health provider within a reasonable timeframe of the symptomatic event. A symptom guide of physical and mental conditions is available to direct patients to the appropriate service.

The Digital Health Team introduces this service as an extension of the Virtual Urgent Care services that launched in late 2023 and reached 25,000 completed visits in October of last year. The dedicated team of mental health care providers is available Monday through Friday, 12 p.m. – 7 p.m., with plans to expand staffing and hours of operation as patient volume increases. Services are billed through the patient’s insurance. Depending on the patient’s plan, a co-payment or deductible may apply. 

Hochang Benjamin Lee awarded Visiting Professor Award from the Academy of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry.

Tuesday, March 4, 2025

Hochang Benjamin (Ben) Lee, the John Romano Professor and Chair of the Department of Psychiatry, received the 2024 Visiting Professor Award from the Academy of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry. Lee is a fellow of the ACLP, a professional organization that provides leadership in education, research, and advocacy to advance integrated psychiatric care for the medically ill.

Read Hochang Benjamin Lee awarded Visiting Professor Award 

Register Now for the13th Annual Joseph Ryan Conference

Tuesday, March 4, 2025

The 13th Annual Joseph Ryan Conference Strong Recovery Presents:
New Frontiers in Addiction Psychiatry and Trauma: Brain, Behavior, and Innovative Digital Tools
Friday May 2, 2024, 8:30am to 4:00pm, Hilton Garden Inn, 30 Celebration Dr, Rochester, NY 14620
Contact Stacy Ciotti or Kalie Ernewein to register.

Read more about the 13th Annual Joseph Ryan Conference

BHP Blog: Mastering work-life balance in health care

Saturday, March 1, 2025

Feeling overwhelmed or burned out? Discover in the March blog from Behavioral Health Partners how the “life calendar” can help you reclaim your time, manage priorities, and balance your personal and professional life to improve your well-being.

Read BHP Blog: Mastering work-life balance in health care

What Can the Brain Tell Us About Chronic Pain?

Tuesday, February 25, 2025

Paul Geha, MD an associate professor of psychiatry and neuroscience at the Del Monte Institute for Neuroscience at the University of Rochester, leads groundbreaking chronic pain research focused on understanding the brain mechanisms of pain. Recently, his team has made significant strides in studying chronic back pain and the transition from acute to chronic pain. 

Struggling to Manage Uncertainty?

Monday, February 24, 2025

Struggling to Manage Uncertainty? Try These 6 Tips from the Office of Wellbeing

There’s a lot of uncertainty around us – and that can often be anxiety-provoking. While it can feel very uncomfortable, it doesn’t have to keep us from taking care of ourselves and one another, said Craig Rooney, PhD, URMC’s chief wellbeing officer.  

Read Struggling to Manage Uncertainty? Try These 6 Tips from the Office of Wellbeing

WXXI Podcast: Is it okay for kids to become friends with AI?

Thursday, February 13, 2025

Pediatric psychologist Tony Pisani, PhD, and Michael Scharf, MD, professor in child and adolescent psychiatry, discussed the potential dangers of childhood friendships with AI chatbots on WXXI’s Connections (Feb. 13). “Too much of anything is not a good thing,” Scharf said. “We don't even know how much of the things you're missing out on are critical for development. If you [interact with AI chatbots] all day, it means you didn't have lunch with someone, you didn't play on a sports team, you didn't do physical activity.” Pisani suggests that parent involvement is key. “Instead of trying to be cops about this, maybe be co-explorers,” he said.

Read WXXI Podcast: Is it okay for kids to become friends with AI?

Psychiatry Faculty Achievements

Saturday, February 1, 2025

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We would like to highlight a few of the achievements and accomplishments of our faculty this month.   

We are excited to share that Margaret Puelle, MD has been named to a secondary appointment with the University of Rochester Medical Center Department of Dermatology. Congratulations, Dr. Puelle! 

Kevin Brazill, DO presented “Managing Psychosis in the Primary Care Setting: A Collaborative Approach among Physicians, Therapists and Pharmacists” at the New York State Academy of Family Physicians Winter Weekend Conference at Lake Placid in January.

Ann Marie White, EdD has been reelected to a Co-Chair role in the University of Rochester Faculty Senate's Research Policy Committee. In this role, she will lead an advisory board providing feedback to UR administration on policies related to research at the university. Dr. White will also be leading a workshop at the 82nd Annual Conference of the Association for Prevention Teaching and Research in March. She will be discussing Empowering Partnerships: Designing Internships and Student Seminars in Community Engaged Public Health.

Donations Bring Holiday Wishes to Youth

Thursday, January 30, 2025

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A huge thank you to several generous donors for supporting our Child and Adolescent Inpatient holiday drive! The following organizations and community members donated supplies and aid over the holidays that will support youth staying in our Child and Adolescent Inpatient 4-9000 unit.

• Wegmans
• First American
• SUNY Brockport CSI NU Chapter (Department of Counselor Education)
• URMC Surgical Pathology
• Steven James Coffee Company
• Community members Mariella & Alex Diaz, Morgan Jackson and Family

In addition, thank you to Marie Herman for a generous financial donation and a collection of toy ducks for patients!

Interested in donating items?
Child and Adolescent Inpatient program donation list
Contact Dr. Deanna Sams to donate

Self-Compassion and Your Mental Health

Thursday, January 30, 2025

Discover how embracing self-compassion can strengthen your mental health. The February blog from Behavioral Health Partners provides practical tips on how to be gentler with yourself. 

Read Behavioral Health Partners Blog: Self-Compassion and Your Mental Health

Could xenon gas have the potential to treat Alzheimer's?

Friday, January 17, 2025

Anton Porsteinsson, MD, director of the Alzheimer’s Disease Care, Research and Education Program (AD-CARE), spoke to Medical News Today (Jan. 17) about recent studies on xenon gas, which has long been used in general anesthesia and may have cardioprotective and neuroprotective effects. “We know a lot about xenon gas and its impact on humans from anesthesia in terms of safety and tolerability,” Porsteinsson said. “It is quite expensive and there would be a challenge understanding how to deliver it to a large patient group and avoid anesthetic events.”

Read Medical News Today: Mountain climbing and treating Alzheimer's: Could xenon gas have potential?

Podcast: AI Scientists and the Humans Who Love Them with Dr. Ian Cero

Tuesday, January 14, 2025

AI Scientists and the Humans Who Love Them
Ian Cero, PhD and Tony Pisani , PhD explore whether AI can fundamentally transform the way we conduct scientific research, especially in the context of suicide prevention.

2025 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration

Friday, January 10, 2025

We are excited to announce our 2025 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration! Beginning January 21st, join us for celebrations to honor the legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Bring your lunch and grab a seat for music performances by the group! 

Events: January 21: Storytelling Concert by the Black Storytelling League of Rochester, January 22: Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Rounds- “The Hard Work of Planning for Peace” with Rev. Wayne Lewis and January 23: MLK Choir led by Jasen Monroe 

How to Overcome Gym Anxiety

Friday, January 10, 2025

Clinical and Sports Psychologist Craig W. Cypher, Psy.D., CMPC® from the University of Rochester Medical Center’s Fitness Science program offers a clear set of strategies for overcoming gym anxiety and achieving your 2025 fitness goals.

Read UR Newsroom Article: How to Overcome Gym Anxiety 

Fundraising Efforts Support Psychiatry Patients and Families

Tuesday, January 7, 2025

Thank you to everyone who participated in our 2nd Annual Department of Psychiatry Food Drive! Below is only a small portion of all the donations received which will be distributed to food cupboards to support those getting services at our outpatient clinics and those recently discharged from inpatient programs.

In addition, thank you to everyone who contributed to our Pie Sale this Fall! Your generosity means everything to us and to the community we serve. Your support raised $807 which will go towards improving the physical space in our adult inpatient units.

Celebrating our Med/Psych Teams

Friday, January 3, 2025

January 2nd through January 8th marks our first annual Med/Psych Week, a celebration of our various Med/Psych programs. Our Med/Psych programs, which include SUMMITS, IMIPS, and MIPS, provide specialized medical care for those who have co-occurring mental health challenges.

You may notice some of the Med/Psych teams wearing green in celebration on January 7th. We invite you to take some time to thank a team member that week for all they do!