Virtual: Addressing Stigma and Health Disparities Related to Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health

Sponsor: NH Alcohol and Drug Counselors Association in collaboration with the North Country Health Consortium/ Northern NH Area Health Education Center

A 2-hour training with Jennifer Goulet, CHW/RC

PRESENTATION: Individuals experiencing substance use disorders (SUDs) and mental health related concerns often face discrimination and negative bias from society, including from healthcare and behavioral health professionals. Stereotypes that generate prejudice, and ultimately to discrimination, stem from misinformed beliefs about addiction. Even the most well-intentioned health care professionals carry stigma and bias that is projected to their patients/clients. This stigma is recognized by the client/patient and interferes with effective treatment. During this live interactive webinar, Jennifer Goulet, Community Health Worker, Recovery Coach and Recovery Support Manager at the North Country Health Consortium will identify specifically what stigma is and its different forms across a diverse population including pregnant women, the aging population, homeless individuals and other populations. Next, she explores how one’s attitude and language have a powerful impact on client outcomes in recovery.  

Learning Objectives:

• Identify two specific biases common for professionals working with patients/clients experiencing behavioral health and mental health related symptoms.
• Identify two tools to use as a way of mitigating personal and organizational bias when working with patients experience SUD and mental health concerns.

PRESENTER:  Jennifer spent four years coordinating for the Multiple Offender Program (MOP) at Tri-County Community Action Program (TCCAP) and discovered a passion for helping those in her community that suffer with Substance Use Disorder (SUD). This employment experience, as well as, personal experiences has led Jennifer to become employed as the Recovery Support Manager for the AskPETRA Substance Use Disorder Support Programs which include the Wellness And Recovery Model (WARM) Program and the newest extension of services, WARM4Women at the North Country Health Consortium (NCHC) in Littleton, NH. She is currently pursuing her CRSW to realize her commitment to improving the overall health and wellness of all New Hampshire residents that struggle with addiction. It is her belief that the CHW/RC is an essential member of the team in private practices, federally qualified health centers, social services, community settings, and public health. 

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Event Details