Get ready to tee off with your fellow addiction treatment and behavioral health professionals at the highly anticipated return of our golf tournament in 2025! Join us on the lush greens of The Cape Club for a day of networking and friendly competition.

<strong>Session Description</strong>: Group therapy continues to be the predominant approach to treating addictions in the United States and many addiction treatment programs use group therapy as their primary approach to treating addictions. Nonetheless, group therapy training is not as available as more general training in the treatment of addictive disorders.

This workshop presents a cognitive-behavioral therapy addictions group (CBTAG) for individuals from diverse backgrounds with diverse chemical and behavioral addictive disorders. We focus on the design and facilitation of CBTAGs and teach workshop participants to identify individuals appropriate for such a diverse group. We highlight cognitive, behavioral, affective, and physiological processes common to addictive behaviors; teach participants to identify target cognitive and behavioral problems, and; describe coping skills offered in CBTAGs.

The present CBTAG model emerged from the individual cognitive-behavioral therapy model we developed more than three decades ago. Our positive experiences with that individual therapy model led us to formulate, develop, and refine this group approach. Some important features of this CBTAG approach are: the inclusion of persons with diverse addictive behaviors; the open-ended nature of the group (members are permitted to come and go as needed); and the adaptability of each session, depending on problems and concerns presented by members in each session.

In the proposed workshop a wide range of methods will be used to teach about CBT, group therapy, addictive behaviors, and the CBTAG - including lecture, discussion, Q&A, case presentations, demonstrations, and role-playing. As the title of this workshop suggests, this workshop will be highly experiential.<br /><br />

<strong>Session Description</strong>: This experiential and skills-based workshop is designed for therapists and counselors who want to deepen their clinical effectiveness by integrating multiple healing modalities into their practice. Participants will explore how Internal Family Systems (IFS), Shadow Work, Inner Child Work, and Polyvagal Theory can be woven together to support clients in cultivating self-awareness, nervous system regulation, and emotional integration.<br>We will examine the theoretical overlaps and distinctions between these approaches and engage in practical exercises that demonstrate how to fluidly move between modalities within a single session or over the course of treatment. Emphasis will be placed on clinical intuition, client readiness, and tailoring interventions.<br>Attendees will leave with a more cohesive framework for helping clients access core wounds, build inner safety, and integrate disowned parts of the self—while supporting nervous system resilience and fostering lasting change.<br>

Behavioral healthcare compliance and ethics is more than a regulatory requirement—it's a strategic journey grounded in staff engagement, leadership enhancement, and cultural transformation. This immersive 3-hour session will explore how organizations can move beyond reactive compliance tactics to cultivate sustainable systems that support ethical practices, reduce burnout, improve retention, and enhance the quality and safety of care.

Participants will gain a deep understanding of the 7 elements of an effective compliance program and how these principles, when combined with high-reliability science, can create more resilient, efficient, and accountable organizations. We'll discuss the pitfalls of relying solely on internal staff or legal consultants and demonstrate why behavioral health demands specialized knowledge and a proactive compliance infrastructure. Participants will leave with a roadmap to apply these strategies in their day-to-day operations—transforming compliance from a burden into a catalyst for excellence and long-term success.

<strong>Session Description</strong>: This session will provide an in-depth exploration of the Code of Ethics in behavioral healthcare and its influence on key areas such as marketing, patient assessments, and fostering a positive organizational culture. Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of ethical standards and best practices that healthcare professionals must uphold to ensure integrity, transparency, and patient-centered care.<br>Key topics will include:<br>• Understanding the Code of Ethics in Healthcare: An overview of the foundational ethical principles that guide healthcare practice, from patient autonomy and confidentiality to fairness and non-discrimination. This will set the stage for discussing how these principles are applied in real-world healthcare settings.<br>• Ethical Marketing in Healthcare: Best practices for marketing healthcare services in a manner that is both effective and ethical. We will explore how to promote healthcare products and services transparently, ensuring that advertisements are truthful, do not mislead patients, and prioritize patient interests.<br>• Ethical Assessments and Evaluations: Practical approaches for conducting patient assessments with integrity. This segment will cover the importance of maintaining unbiased, accurate, and empathetic evaluations, ensuring patient dignity is respected throughout the process.<br>• Building a Positive Healthcare Culture: The role of leadership in promoting a culture that aligns with ethical standards. We will discuss how healthcare organizations can cultivate environments of trust, respect, collaboration, and accountability—ultimately leading to better patient outcomes and staff satisfaction.<br>

<strong>Session Description</strong>: This workshop is designed for supervisors to provide an overview of the role supervision when treating dual disorders. Frequently, clients present with complex medical and behavioral health conditions which require a holistic approach to assessment and treatment. Integrated care requires a multidisciplinary team, the role of the supervisor on a multidisciplary team and the characteristics of effective supervision will be discussed.

<strong>Session Description</strong>: Addiction has been conceptualized as a brain disease. Consequently, many addiction treatment models rely on medications to change brain function. Although buprenorphine and methadone are “gold standard” treatments that save lives, nonetheless approximately 50% of patients taking these medications relapse within 6 months. However, the brain is neuroplastic and can be changed through mental training. This presentation will discuss an innovative mental training approach called Mindfulness-Oriented Recovery Enhancement (MORE). MORE was generated through a decade-long treatment development process funded by the NIH. Rooted in affective neuroscience, MORE unites mindfulness training, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and principles from positive psychology into an integrative therapy designed to target addiction and its comorbidities (emotional distress and chronic pain). MORE has been tested in 13 randomized clinical trials funded by more than $80 million in federal research grants. In the largest NIH-funded trial of MORE, MORE boosted theta EEG activity to decrease opioid misuse by 45% by 9-month follow-up, nearly tripling the effect of standard group therapy. MORE has also been shown to enhance medication assisted treatment (MAT) outcomes by reducing days of drug use and preventing relapse, while significantly decreasing chronic pain, depression, and PTSD. This session will describe how addiction changes the brain and how these changes can be remediated through MORE’s unique clinical skills and therapeutic approach. Participants will learn how to implement cutting-edge mindfulness, reappraisal, and savoring techniques and how to maximize patient engagement and motivation in skill practice. MORE should now be disseminated widely in addictions treatment across the nation.<br /><br />

On Friday, September 5, join us in celebrating the strength and stability found through recovery—together. This is a chance for attendees to show their support by dressing up, having fun, and honoring the recovery journey in a way that feels uniquely Cape Cod.

Wear Your Nautical Best to Show Your Support!

-Navy stripes and classic Cape Cod coastal chic
-Anchors, rope-themed accessories, or sailor hats
-Captain hats / sailor outfits
-Lobster-red pops of color (tie in lobster bake!)
-Crew neck sweaters or classic Cape Cod coastal chic

<strong>Session Description</strong>: Substance use disorders, including drug, alcohol, and tobacco dependence, are a major global health burden, affecting millions worldwide. Despite extensive research, current treatment options remain limited, and relapse rates are high.<br>Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), a hormone released in the small intestine, plays a crucial role in blood glucose regulation, slows gastric emptying, and reduces appetite. GLP-1 receptor agonists, widely used for treating Type 2 diabetes mellitus and obesity, have recently gained attention for their potential in addiction treatment. Preclinical studies in rodents and non-human primates suggest that these agonists can reduce the consumption of alcohol and other substances of abuse.<br>Early clinical trials are now exploring whether these preclinical findings translate to human patients. While the precise mechanisms remain unclear, evidence suggests that GLP-1 receptor activation may influence dopamine signaling in the brain, which is critical in addiction and reward pathways. This session provides an overview of current findings and discusses the possible mechanisms of GLP-1’s action in substance use disorders.<br /><br />

<strong>Session Description</strong>: The persistent divide between harm reduction and traditional addiction treatment approaches remains a significant barrier to providing comprehensive care for individuals with substance use disorders. Bridging the divide between harm reduction and traditional addiction treatment is essential for providing comprehensive care to those with substance use disorders. By adopting innovative models like Managed Alcohol Programs, MOUD, and overdose prevention centers, and fostering a culture of emotional safety and inclusivity, we can create a treatment landscape that meets the diverse needs of individuals and supports their journey to recovery. This workshop will provide actionable insights and practical examples to guide organizations in implementing these integrated approaches effectively. This workshop is aimed at advancing the conversation on integrating harm reduction and traditional addiction treatment. It underscores the need for innovative models and cultural shifts to create a holistic and inclusive approach to substance use disorder treatment while addressing the critical aspects of trauma, human rights, and social justice.<br /><br />

<strong>Session Description</strong>: The question of why some individuals that drink alcohol and use substances, and not others, develop a severe substance use disorder (SUD) is difficult to answer. While there is no consensus in the field, most agree it includes varying degrees of biological, psychological, and sociological factors. One area that touches upon all three is found in attachment theory, where there is a growing body of research linking SUDs to being insecurely attached. In this talk, we will look at basic theories of how SUDs emerge and are maintained, including evidence that difficulty coping with negative experiences, regulating affect, and expressing attachment needs in close relationships is a risk factor. We will then review why connecting to others is a primary human motivation, the impact deprivation of relationships has on physical and emotional health, and the neurobiological evidence explaining the similarities between the strong responses individuals with an SUD have to substances and people, in general, have to intimate relationships. In addition, we will explore the interplay between different styles of insecure attachment, co-morbidities, and SUDs. We will conclude with a discussion on clinical implications, including how attachment theory may contribute to SUD prevention and improve treatment outcomes, the utility of assessment and a focus on common factors in therapy, and the current the state of attachment-based therapies.<br /><br />

<strong>Session Description</strong>: For many individuals suffering from substance use disorders, making the decision to enter treatment is a challenging process requiring a great degree of humility and courage. Clients often initially approach treatment with limited knowledge and perspective of what is truly required of themselves to benefit from a residential treatment setting. Not surprisingly, surrendering from their “regular lives” into an often novel and emotionally challenging therapeutic setting will elicit self-protective mechanisms. These reflexive responses can prevent both the client and the clinician from gaining meaningful access to the areas of deepest vulnerability and suffering, particularly with a trauma history. Taking a multiplicity of the self-perspective is a useful approach to assist both clients and clinicians in understanding how to collaboratively explore all aspects of what appear to be therapeutic impasses. Using the authentic therapeutic alliance and applying nuanced experiential, somatic, emotion-focused, and family systems-based approaches, can facilitate access to the “parts” of self that rely on substance use to cope. Additionally, we will discuss how more novel experiential treatment approaches including Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy can deepen internal access to one’s self and enhance opportunities for relational intimacy and repair.<br /><br />

<strong>Session Description</strong>: Self-disclosure in therapeutic settings has long been a controversial topic amongst therapists. Through research, it has become clear that, when used incorrectly, self-disclosure by the therapist causes harm and is detrimental to the client and his or her care. However, many studies also endorse the benefits of a therapist utilizing self-disclosure effectively and appropriately, including stronger rapport, lessening resistance, and client satisfaction with the therapeutic experience. However, what does a therapist do when he or she is unsure of the result a self-disclosure may have on a client or when self-disclosure directly impacts the therapist, positively or negatively? This can take numerous forms, external or internal, and can present as a struggle for the therapist. This session will focus on the discussion of when and how a therapist can use self-disclosure to grow as a therapist and, in turn, a human being. By identifying the different types of self-disclosure (deliberate, accidental, and unavoidable self-disclosure), therapists will be afforded the opportunity to identify which self-disclosure may have a stronger impact on the client as well as a strong impact on the self in session. Many training sessions focus on the client's response to self-disclosure. By contrast, this session will focus on the therapist's external and internal response to each type of self-disclosure made. By defining self-disclosure and allowing for interactive case-based training, therapists will learn to identify appropriate situations in which to disclose and learn the skill of quick decision-making to avoid dangerous self-disclosure moments.<br /><br />

<strong>Session Description</strong>: This Continuing Education Unit (CEU) presentation will encompass a comprehensive understanding of psychosis, aiming to deepen knowledge in order to enhance awareness and insight into this complex mental health condition. By delving into the layers of psychosis, individuals will gain a nuanced understanding of its various manifestations, contributing factors, and treatment options. Additionally, this CEU will prioritize the development of empathy and effective communication strategies for engaging with individuals experiencing psychosis through an intervention called LEAP.
Furthermore, this CEU will focus on the importance of a holistic approach to support individuals with psychosis, acknowledging the multifaceted nature of their experiences. This holistic perspective advocates for addressing not only the symptoms of psychosis but also considering the broader social, environmental, and personal factors that contribute to an individual's well-being. After this CEU, professionals will have tools to play a vital role in promoting comprehensive care and improving the overall quality of life for individuals affected by psychosis.<br /><br />

<strong>Session Description</strong>: Behavioral health is entering a new era – one where mission alone isn’t enough to weather changing client needs, regulatory shifts, staff turnover or financial volatility. Learn how organizations like New England Medical Group have strategically expanded their service lines ahead of the game while staying rooted in foundational values and clinical excellence. This session will demonstrate how mission-aligned growth can be a force multiplier, enabling both enhanced access and financial sustainability. Attendees will come away with strategies for scaling services in ways that are both clinically sound and growth-oriented. Whether you’re exploring a mental health, a new adolescent track, launching evening partial treatment, or deepening community footprint, this session will equip you to do so with both purpose and momentum.

<p>Sponsored By:<br><img src=https://naccme.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/24.WCS.101/KIPU+Updated+Logo+… alt="Upload Image" width="200" /></p><br>This Vision Session non-CME presentation is taking place during the Cape Cod Symposium. The opinions and recommendations expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of the Cape Cod Symposium or HMP Global. This program is not intended or eligible for continuing education (CME/CE) credits and does not meet guidelines governing CME/CE. By entering a Vision Session and having your badge scanned, you opt-into share and receive information from industry sponsors. If you wish to opt out, please speak with a conference representative.

<strong>Session Description</strong>: The ketamine landscape in the United States is rapidly shifting. Not only has off-label prescribing of ketamine to treat psychiatric disorders increased, but nonmedical (recreational) use has also increased. This presentation focuses on the most up-to-date data on trends in nonmedical use (among the general population, adolescents, and high-risk scenes), poisonings, other adverse events, and illicit availability (estimated using drug seizure data). There will also be a focus on shifts in off-label prescribing and diversion of pharmaceutical ketamine. The second part of this presentation will focus on the new ketamine-containing concoction called “pink cocaine” (Tusi). “Pink cocaine” almost always contains ketamine but it appears that many people who use do not know what drugs this potentially dangerous concoction can contain. “Pink cocaine” is becoming a popular party drug that has been linked to unintentional drug exposure, and there have been deaths linked to use. Clinicians need to be aware of the increasing prevalence of non-medical ketamine use, availability of illicit ketamine, and use of ketamine-containing concoctions. Prevention and harm reduction will be discussed.

<strong>Session Description</strong>: Relationships in the clinical setting include working with multi-generations which can be both challenging and rewarding. The differences in attitudes, beliefs, and customs can create strain on the supervisory relationship if supervisors are not prepared to learn and work across the generational gap. The lived experience of the different generations that are both different and shared create a complex relationship that must be examined and adapted to meet the needs of clinicians. In this session we will explore the generational diversity that is a part of clinical supervision, we will identify what challenges and opportunities this presents, and review how to apply different interventions in clinical supervision to ensure ethical and individualized supervision is provided to clinicians.<br /><br />

<strong>Session Description</strong>: Developmental trauma refers to adverse childhood experiences that can have long-lasting effects on emotional, psychological, and physical development. When untreated, these traumas can contribute to the development of Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) later in life, particularly during adolescence when individuals may turn to substances as a coping mechanism. This workshop aims to explore how understanding and addressing developmental trauma within the context of family systems can enhance treatment outcomes for adolescents with SUD. Participants will gain insights into the nature of developmental trauma, its impact on neurodevelopment, and how it manifests in behaviors related to substance use especially within the context of the family system. This workshop will emphasize the role of family dynamics in both the development and treatment of SUD in adolescents. Practical strategies and interventions will be discussed to address developmental trauma within the family system. Attendees will learn how to apply the knowledge gained to their clinical practice by adapting current treatment plans to include family therapy, improving trauma-informed care practices, and integrating family systems into the therapeutic process to support long-term recovery. Participants will leave the workshop with a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness between trauma and addiction. By understanding and intervening at the family level, clinicians can significantly impact treatment outcomes, promoting healing and resilience among young individuals struggling with substance use and underlying developmental trauma.<br /><br />

<strong>Session Description</strong>: Despite the ongoing drug overdose epidemic and emergence of fentanyl, fewer than 15% of Americans with a substance use disorder (SUD) received treatment last year. According to the National Survey on Drug Use & Health (SAMHSA, 2024), commonly reported reasons people with SUD do not receive treatment include “not ready to stop using” (53%), can’t find a program that offers the type of treatment they want (39%), and barriers related to transportation, childcare, or scheduling an appointment during times that work for them (24%). Stigma represents another pervasive barrier (SAMHSA, 2024) preventing people with SUD from seeking treatment (fear of losing job, home or children if people knew they were in SUD treatment [38%]; worried about what people would think or say [46%]; family, friends, or religious group would not like it [17%]). Together these findings underscore the need for greater adoption of patient-centered program-level policies, low-barrier models, telehealth, peer support, and harm reduction approaches. Among individuals who do access care, few remain in treatment for the recommended duration to achieve recovery. Strategies to enhance treatment initiation, engagement, and retention often focus on patient-level factors (e.g., interventions designed to “motivate” the patient), and tend to neglect the role that treatment programs’ own policies and philosophies play. The research literature will be reviewed regarding evidence-based strategies to not only get people into treatment, but keep them engaged in care with a particular focus on programmatic, structural, cultural, and other program-level barriers. Implications for program policies and routine practice will be discussed.<br /><br />

<strong>Session Description</strong>: This presentation will include both didactic and experiential components. The topics that will be covered include:<br>1. The Four Dialogues Model of Chairwork Psychotherapy.<br>2. The Six Strategies for working with addictions and problematic substance use.<br>3. Using Chairwork to work with ambivalence and increase motivation for change.<br>4. Challenging Self-Hatred – a basic dialogue approach.<br>5. Processing Trauma – an introduction to Third Person Storytelling.<br>This will be followed by a live demonstration of Chairwork Psychotherapy involving one or more Clinician Volunteers from the attendees. Volunteers will be invited to use this opportunity to: (a) sort out issues related to a challenging case; or (b) work on a personal issue.<br /><br />

<strong>Session Description</strong>: Music can be a way for individuals to make and enhance interpersonal connections which are so important for recovery and well-being. Music can also help to build personal resiliency skills. Music surrounds our environment, most of the time we are aware of hearing it. When we hear music, Dopamine is released in the brain that creates pleasure, however we know that memories associated with music can also trigger happiness, thoughts of escape, or trauma. This session will demonstrate the effect of music on mood, interpersonal connection, and will review how music can build resilience. Participants can experience the effect of music through performance which will demonstrate increased interpersonal connection and mood changes.

<strong>Session Description</strong>: As behavioral health providers face mounting pressure from policy reform, payer demands, and shifting reimbursement models, leaders must think beyond compliance. This session explores how to future-proof your organization by aligning with upcoming regulatory changes, gaining clarity on the data requirements for value-based billing and how to put them into practice, and finding the right balance between the bedside and the balance sheet. Attendees will walk away with practical insights to support value-based care readiness and position their organizations for stronger valuations in an increasingly competitive market.

<p>Sponsored By:

<br><img src="https://778c1607566f28c5e8fd-e6db6de54823ad7fd298e0f6ff75b72a.ssl.cf1.r…; alt="Upload Image" width="200" /></p><br>This Vision Session non-CME presentation is taking place during the Cape Cod Symposium. The opinions and recommendations expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of the Cape Cod Symposium or HMP Global. This program is not intended or eligible for continuing education (CME/CE) credits and does not meet guidelines governing CME/CE. By entering a Vision Session and having your badge scanned, you opt-into share and receive information from industry sponsors. If you wish to opt out, please speak with a conference representative.

<strong>Session Description</strong>: In the nearly 20 years which have passed since the invention of the smart phone and the COVID-19 pandemic which started in 2020, emergency room visits related to suicide increased dramatically according to the CDC. There has been 50% increase among adolescent females. Other populations have increased significantly as well. The focus of this presentation is to explore dangers associated with excessive mobile device usage, ways parents and guardians can be on guard for the dangers of exposure, and what professionals can do to aid clients and others in a mobile-first culture. Special emphasis is given to history and development of western culture as it has developed into a technology-based environment. Concerns about professionals potentially enabling clients in challenges and reasonable interventions to help professionals and clients navigate in technology-saturated culture are presented. Ways to evaluate depressive symptoms and suicidal ideations directly resulting from excessive technology exposure will be demonstrated.<br /><br />

<strong>Session Description</strong>: Maintaining mental health with our clients and ourselves can be a complex journey, and journaling can be a valuable resource. Writing is not only a release but can also be a way to explore new strategies, experiment with novel ideas, solidify plans for change, and find your voice for advocacy. We will begin with some overview about the many benefits of writing as well as some of the different kinds of journaling that individuals may consider incorporating professionally and personally. We will review some of the common obstacles to writing and highlight a focus on imperfect, incomplete and yet unknown ideas. The majority of the session, however, will be spent inviting the participants to practice with several exercises and prompts which will be provided to allow for some brief personal reflection and tapping into internal wisdom. Brief discussion and sharing opportunities will be provided but are not required. No writing expertise is needed but rather only an interest in writing exploration.<br /><br />

<strong>Session Description</strong>: People with intellectual disabilities (ID) are at a greater risk for developing substance use (SU) problems than those without ID. Despite this, there is a significant gap in effective interventions tailored to adults with mild to borderline intellectual disabilities (MBID). This workshop addresses the critical gaps, barriers, and challenges in SU and substance abuse (SA) assessment and treatment for this vulnerable population, drawing insights from a comprehensive scoping review. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the tools and interventions that can be effectively utilized to improve clinical outcomes for adults with MBID. By attending this workshop, clinicians will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to address the unique challenges faced by adults with MBID in relation to SU/SA. This includes the ability to implement specialized assessment tools, apply effective intervention strategies, and advocate for necessary systemic changes. As a result, attendees will be able to enhance their clinical practice by providing more tailored, effective, and inclusive care for adults with MBID, ultimately improving their overall health and well-being.<br /><br />

<strong>Session Description</strong>: The treatment landscape has evolved significantly, moving from stigmatized views to evidence-based approaches. This session will delve into harm reduction strategies, overdose medications, anti-craving medications, and the latest scientific advancements in addiction treatment<br /><br />

The annual Cape Cod Symposium Lobster Bake returns this year! Join us for an evening of fun, networking, and delicious New England cuisine. <br><br>*This is a ticketed event with very limited seating. The Lobster Bake is open to only registered attendees of the 2025 Cape Cod Symposium.

If you registered for the lobster bake you must check in at the Bass River room by 6:15 PM on September 5. If you have not checked in by 6:15 PM, your seat will be given to someone else. No refunds are available for not attending or arriving after 6:15 PM.

<strong>Session Description</strong>: Suicide is a major public health concern and a leading cause of death in the US. In 2020, suicide was the 12th leading cause of death overall in the United States, claiming the lives of over 45,900 people. Knowing the warning signs for suicide and how to get help can help save lives. Alcohol and opioid use disorders significantly increase risk for suicidal ideation, attempts, and death, and are the two most frequently implicated substances in suicide risk. Individuals with substance use disorders (SUDs) are particularly susceptible to suicide and suicide attempts as suicide is a leading cause of death among people who misuse alcohol and drugs This training will explore the signs to look out for when working in the field and identify evidence-based practices to help break the silence.<br /><br />

<strong>Session Description</strong>: Harm Reduction is more than needle exchanges and MAT/MOUD. There are programs, policies, and practices, yet few behavioral healthcare providers know how to use it in the therapy room. This presentation will give an overview of harm reduction psychotherapy, explore why it is a controversial topic, and review its core concepts with special attention on alcohol—the #1 substance of use. Participants will walk away with tangible tools to engage clients in any stage of change and experience a paradigm shift in how we treat people with drug and alcohol problems.<br /><br />

<strong>Session Description</strong>: This session explores how the rise of safetyism and the increasing role of technology in parenting contribute to the development of substance use disorders (SUDs) and how unstructured play can counteract these impacts. Safetyism, characterized by parental anxiety and constant supervision, coupled with the pervasive influence of technology, limits children's opportunities to engage in independent, exploratory play. This overprotective environment can hinder the development of resilience, creativity, and emotional regulation, potentially leading to increased anxiety and reliance on maladaptive coping mechanisms, such as substance use.

Participants will learn how fostering environments that promote unstructured play can build the confidence, competence, and emotional well-being necessary to prevent the onset of SUDs. The session will highlight the importance of play in building key life skills that are essential for navigating challenges without turning to substances. Moreover, it will delve into the therapeutic potential of play for adults, particularly those recovering from SUDs. Research suggests that incorporating play into treatment programs can reduce stress, aid in emotional regulation, and foster social connections—factors critical to sustained recovery.

Attendees will be equipped with strategies to integrate play into both prevention and treatment settings, learning from case studies and best practices of successful programs. This session calls on parents, schools, treatment providers, and the broader community to prioritize unstructured play as a vital component in fostering healthy, independent adults and supporting recovery from addiction.<br /><br />

<strong>Session Description</strong>: Substance use disorder (SUD) treatment and recovery support professionals are urgently called upon to demonstrate quality and effectiveness of their services. In the absence of universally accepted measures of recovery outcomes, providers are challenged to answer the common question, “What is your success rate?” with a response supported by data and research. The NAATP Foundation for Recovery Science and Education (FoRSE) is a nonprofit organization that was developed to help providers demonstrate their impact quantitatively and use their data to inform changes at the patient and program level. The FoRSE Addiction Treatment Outcomes Program offers a allows providers to share a limited set of de-identified patient data into a centralized database through a low-burden technology infrastructure. FoRSE uses the shared data to create confidential benchmarking reports for providers, comparing their data to aggregated data from treatment centers nationwide. This is a first-of-its kind national effort to demonstrate the value of addiction healthcare and expand the reach of recovery to more who need it. This presentation provides an overview of the FoRSE Program, reviews the first several years of data insights, and offers guidance in using data to support clinical and operational decision making.<br /><br />

<strong>Session Description</strong>: As Large Language Models (LLMs) rapidly evolve, their integration into public and private behavioral health settings offers both exciting opportunities and complex challenges. This workshop will explore the transformative potential of LLMs, from enhancing goal writing and streamlining clinical documentation to improving staff training and client engagement. We will show how LLMs can assist in generating personalized, culturally sensitive goals, thereby allowing clinicians to focus more on direct client care. Additionally, participants will consider the use of LLMs in data analysis, risk assessment, and policy development, exploring how these tools can support informed decision-making and their potential for improving outcomes.
Looking ahead, the landscape of LLMs in behavioral health is expected to shift dramatically. As these models become more accurate and specialized, they will likely be increasingly integrated into electronic health records (EHRs) and other clinical systems, enhancing their utility in daily practice. However, with these advancements come new ethical and regulatory challenges. This workshop will provide a forum to discuss the implications of these changes, focusing on maintaining client privacy, mitigating bias, and navigating the evolving legal landscape.
By the end of this session, participants will be equipped with a deeper understanding of the current and future state of LLMs in behavioral health, empowering them to integrate these technologies effectively and responsibly into their practice.<br /><br />

<strong>Session Description</strong>: This presentation will discuss how clinicians and first responders share similar emotional challenges. Therapist walk on a journey with their clients, often being an emotional witness to their traumas. How do therapists take care of their emotional well-being. How do therapist handle hearing the emotional traumas their clients share. Clinicians and EAPS who provide debriefings or defusings often experience vicarious trauma. How do they take care of their emotional well-being. First Responders experience direct and indirect trauma. Their maladaptive coping skills often lead to loss of relationships, substance misuse and suicide. This presentation will tackle these topics as well as describe characteristics of moral injury in the eyes of First Responders and how this often affects clinicians. The presentation will end with tools to assist clinicians in their self-care and how to open the doors for first responders to practice post traumatic growth.<br /><br />

<strong>Session Description</strong>: Find how to get the highest reimbursement rates from Anthem/BCBS, Cigna, Aetna, United, UMR, and GEHA.<br><br><p>Sponsored By:<br><img src=https://naccme.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/24.WCS.101/Zealie+logo.png alt="Upload Image" width="200" /></p><br><br>This Vision Session non-CME presentation is taking place during the Cape Cod Symposium. The opinions and recommendations expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of the Cape Cod Symposium or HMP Global. This program is not intended or eligible for continuing education (CME/CE) credits and does not meet guidelines governing CME/CE. By entering a Vision Session and having your badge scanned, you opt-into share and receive information from industry sponsors. If you wish to opt out, please speak with a conference representative.

<strong>Session Description</strong>: Retention in substance use treatment is one of the strongest predictors of improved outcomes. With fentanyl, stimulants, and other challenges shaping today’s landscape, it’s more important than ever to be purposeful and creative in how we support people to stay engaged in care long enough to reach their goals.
A harm reduction approach helps us focus on meeting individuals where they are, removing barriers, and offering practical supports that keep them connected to treatment and recovery services. Strategies like contingency management, technology-based supports (apps, text messaging), and flexible engagement methods can all play a role. Just as important is supporting staff retention, since stable and consistent relationships with providers strongly influence whether people remain in care.
Eliminating stigmatizing language, expanding access to life-saving tools, and building treatment environments that are person-centered and inclusive are all key steps. Retention isn’t about forcing one pathway and it’s about creating conditions where people feel supported, valued, and able to pursue recovery on their own terms.<br /><br />

<strong>Session Description</strong>: This workshop addresses the critical integration of trauma-informed care and mindfulness practices into treatment protocols for Substance Use Disorders (SUD). The session delves into the profound connection between unresolved trauma and problematic substance use, highlighting how trauma can drive addictive behaviors and impact the efficacy of traditional treatment modalities. Participants will learn to utilize trauma-focused techniques, including innovative EMDR tools like Flash-5 Blinks, alongside Mindfulness-Oriented Recovery Enhancement (MORE) protocols. These evidenced-based practices improve emotional regulation, enhance self-awareness, and reduce relapse risks, thereby enriching the therapeutic outcomes.

Attendees will gain hands-on experience through case studies and interactive exercises, enabling them to apply these techniques immediately in their clinical settings. This workshop promises to expand the attendee's toolkit with actionable strategies and insights that will significantly enhance the effectiveness of their interventions and support the long-term recovery of their clients. By integrating these practices, mental health professionals can foster a healing environment that addresses the complexities of trauma and addiction, leading to more profound, sustainable recovery outcomes. This workshop is essential for those looking to deepen their understanding and application of trauma-focused and mindfulness approaches in addiction treatment.<br /><br />

<strong>Session Description</strong>: In the rapidly evolving digital age, social media has become a pervasive force shaping various aspects of our lives, including mental health and addiction. This 90-minute presentation delves into the profound impact of social media on addiction behaviors and explores emerging trends in addiction treatment.

The session begins by examining the dual nature of social media—its potential to both exacerbate and mitigate addictive behaviors. We will analyze how platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok can contribute to the development and perpetuation of addictive behaviors, providing both triggers and reinforcement. Conversely, the presentation will highlight how these same platforms can be harnessed for positive outcomes, such as community support, awareness campaigns, and innovative therapeutic interventions.

Drawing on recent research and case studies, we will explore how social media influences substance use, gambling, and other behavioral addictions. Special attention will be given to the algorithms that drive engagement and the psychological mechanisms at play, such as social comparison, fear of missing out (FOMO), and instant gratification.

The second half of the presentation shifts focus to emerging trends in addiction treatment that leverage digital technology. This includes the use of telehealth, mobile health apps, and online support groups. Attendees will gain insights into how these tools can be integrated into traditional treatment models to enhance accessibility, engagement, and effectiveness.

End of this session, participants will have a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between social media and addiction and be equipped with practical strategies to incorporate digital innovations into their therapeutic practices.<br /><br />

<strong>Session Description</strong>: So many families are greatly impacted by substance use, which can lead to child welfare and legal involvement. While these systems are in place to protect people, they are often extremely difficult to navigate, especially while in recovery. Learning a harm-reduction approach to set boundaries and set people up for success is crucial to putting families back together and helping them absolve themselves of involvement in our legal system.

Participants will gain information about the ways harm reduction and addressing family dynamics can positively impact families experiencing substance use who are involved in the child welfare system and or legal system. The goal for this session is that the information can be immediately applied as best practices for clinical teams.<br /><br />

<strong>Session Description</strong>: In light of the ample scientific evidence demonstrating that sleep disorders commonly co-occur in those struggling with substance use disorders, this program is designed to aid the audience in the identification of the most common sleep disorders seen in patients with addiction issues. Strategies will be reviewed for the effective assessment, diagnosis, and treatment interventions for sleep disorders in this population, including education regarding cognitive behavioral treatment of insomnia (CBT-I). Strategies for implementation of sleep wellness interventions into clinical work also will be discussed.

<strong>Session Description</strong>: The overdose epidemic has impacted millions of people; bringing awareness to issues related to opioids, overdoses, prevention, and treatment. Treatment providers have been working on improving their quality of care to include medicated-assisted treatment, online support groups, training in trauma, use of motivational interviewing, and several other evidence-based practices. Where does gambling fit in among a large population of people seeking treatment for opioid use disorder? This presentation will focus on reviewing survey findings from several medicated-assisted treatment clinics on identifying gambling among the population of patients as well as the substance use professionals and their experience and training on gambling. Gambling, and its related harms and concerns, continues to be on the rise with the expansion of access and how we even define gambling. Despite the rise in gambling there are many professionals who continues to avoid asking about it, assess for any problems, and are unaware of what resources to provide. Attendees will understand the connections between gambling and substance use disorders to increase awareness of dual diagnosis to advocate for the need to include gambling-informed care among MAT professionals and populations. They will be able to review survey findings about gambling in MAT populations and substance use professionals experience and training with gambling in order to prove how they ask and assess about gambling. Attendees will be able to improve collaboration among treatment providers in gambling awareness, screening, and resources to assist those who may show signs of problem gambling or gambling use disorder.<br /><br />

<strong>Session Description</strong>: This presentation will explore the innovative Trait-Based Model of Prevention, an evidence-based and holistic approach designed to enhance substance abuse prevention efforts by leveraging students' inherent personality and character traits. Traditional prevention programs often emphasize the dangers of substance abuse, but this model shifts the focus to recognizing and nurturing individual strengths. By promoting resilience, self-awareness, and emotional intelligence, the Trait-Based Model empowers youth to make informed and positive choices. Attendees will learn how this model can be integrated into existing prevention programs to create a more supportive and effective environment. We will discuss the core traits of resilience, tenacity, determination, empathy, appreciation, and motivation, and provide practical strategies for cultivating these traits in students. Real-world examples and case studies will illustrate the model's success in fostering personal and academic growth. Join us to discover how building upon personality and character traits can transform prevention efforts and empower our youth to lead healthier, more balanced and resilient lives.<br /><br />

<strong>Session Description</strong>: First, we illustrate that urine drug test (UDT) results tightly correlate with trends in fentanyl-related overdose deaths. Second, we explore changes in the co-detection of prescription opioids, heroin, methamphetamine, and cocaine in fentanyl-positive specimens. Lastly, we provide insight into recent trends in polysubstance use among people who use fentanyl. This information will instruct clinicians as to the most prevalent illicitly manufactured substances and trends throughout our nation over time, including lasting effects from COVID-19. Further, clinicians can expect a case-based approach which will be used to develop skills to interpret UDT results and navigate scenarios involving polysubstance use.

This presentation will be broken into 2 sections:
1. An in-depth discussion of the 2024 national illicitly manufactured fentanyl changes and co-positivity trends
2. Illicit opioid and stimulant drug trends and percent changes in positivity of these substances over time (including before and after the declaration of COVID-19 as a national emergency).<br /><br />

<strong>Session Description</strong>: Throughout the waves of the opioid epidemic, death from overdose grew year over year. During this time the incidence of non-fatal overdoses increased as well. In the current wave of the epidemic, defined by use of illicitly manufacture fentanyl (IMF) in combination with methamphetamine, xylazine, and other drugs, the impact of the nonfatal overdose has changed. The IMF crisis has contributed to a population of drug users who overdose with more frequency than with prescription opioids or heroin due to fentanyl's higher potency and more rapid onset of action. As the number of non-fatal overdoses increases it becomes important for treatment providers to understand the impact on the overdose victim’s mental and physical functioning in both the short and long term. Research has shown that victims of an IMF overdose are more likely to experience multiple overdoses and death. Opioid-induced hypoxic brain injury has also been shown to contribute to the development of severe disability, including mental disorientation, the loss of body movement, slower reaction times, impaired memory, inability to process information, and changes in behavior due to altered mental states. Without an understanding of these impacts or the ability to assess them adequately, treatment staff are handicapped in their ability to adequately treat this population leading to poorer outcomes to treatment and often death. This session, using community and program-based data, intends to provide an overview of the topic, behaviors of the overdose victim, and the assessment necessary to adequately determine the needs and interventions for success in recovery.<br /><br />

<strong>Session Description</strong>: Eating patterns change during active substance use and in recovery. For example, alcohol may replace food entirely, followed by high intake of sugar-laden coffee, soda, and processed foods in recovery or during sobriety. Stimulant use may lead to reduced food intake and weight loss. Dietary patterns during opioid use are often high in ultra-processed foods. Eating patterns such as these can impact a person's physical health by exacerbating a nutrition-related condition such as diabetes, and a person's mental health by way of nutrient deficiency. Furthermore, drastic weight changes and food cravings can be disconcerting for clients in recovery, and could trigger recurrence of use.

Many clients are seeking methods of self-care and guidance on what, when and how to eat for physical and mental health. In the absence of evidence-based information and tools, clients may turn to social media or popular diets which are inappropriate for individuals in recovery.

The goal of the workshop is to educate participants about the impact of substance use disorder on dietary patterns, and equip participants with knowledge and tools to support their clients nutritionally. Presenters will review case vignettes and up-to-date research to elucidate the connection between nutrition and sustained recovery in individuals with SUD. They will model ways to start a conversation with clients about nutrition, and where to direct clients for affordable, healthy food and cooking tips. Presenters will engage in an interactive question and answer period, and provide handouts about healthy eating that can be used directly with clients.<br /><br />

Family programming in addiction treatment is offered in various formats, each with distinct clinical goals, objectives, and methodologies. The gold standard has traditionally been in-person groups or intensive sessions spanning weeks or weekends. However, these programs often fall short for family members who cannot attend due to travel and time costs, childcare responsibilities, and work commitments.
With recent technological advancements and the post-COVID acceptance of telehealth as a viable method for providing coaching, education, and professional/social support, virtual family programming has emerged as a valuable alternative or complement to in-person programming.
In this presentation, Dr. Michael Barnes, of NRT Behavioral Health and the Michael Barnes Family Institute, will discuss the core issues in family programming, best practices, the pros and cons of various methods, and share effective strategies to maximize engagement and outcomes through in-person and virtual programs.