Faculty

Veronica Ridpath

DO
University of South Carolina School of Medicine - Columbia

2026 Sessions

Masterclass: LAIs in Practice: Selecting, Starting, and Sustaining Treatment in Schizophrenia

Incomplete adherence to daily oral antipsychotics remains a leading driver of relapse, rehospitalization, and functional decline in schizophrenia, yet long-acting injectable (LAI) antipsychotics remain substantially underutilized despite growing evidence supporting their earlier use. This session will examine the evidence for LAIs versus oral therapy across relapse, rehospitalization, and mortality outcomes, and differentiate FDA-approved formulations by pharmacologic characteristics, dosing intervals, and initiation and administration requirements to guide individualized treatment selection. Faculty will also address clinician- and patient-related barriers to LAI use through practical, patient-centered communication strategies that support shared decision-making. Physician associates and allied clinicians will leave equipped to recognize appropriate LAI candidates and confidently integrate these therapies into schizophrenia care. Supported by independent educational grant from Teva Pharmaceuticals, USA, Inc.

Speaker

Friday, December 04 2:10–3:10 PM
Room Grand Cypress GHI
1 Credits
MasterClass
Faculty

Veronica Ridpath

DO
University of South Carolina School of Medicine - Columbia
Co-Chairs

Kevin Williams

MS, MPAS, PA-C
CEO and Lead Clinician
OnPoint Behavioral Health

Kevin N. Williams MS, MPAS, PA-C is the CEO and Lead Clinician at OnPoint Behavioral Health. He is a Physician Associate that specializes in Psychiatry and has a mission to provide care that is experienced, holistic, and compassionate. He holds two master degrees in Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences and Physician Assistant Studies from the University of South Florida and South University respectively. He has gained experience treating children, adolescents, and adults for the past 11 years in the areas of inpatient, outpatient, and long-term care. Kevin has 10 years of experience teaching as an Adjunct Professor at several institutions around the country. Kevin also has over 10 years in executive leadership experience and maintains a passion of educating others to lead with effective influence. He has participated in mission work abroad and has enjoyed volunteering in several organizations in the Tampa Bay community. He enjoys spending time with his family along with his hobbies of aviation and traveling abroad.

Women's Mental Health Across the Lifespan: Hormones, Mood, and Treatment Considerations

Hormonal transitions throughout life can significantly influence psychiatric symptoms, treatment response, and overall mental well-being. This session explores the complex relationship between reproductive hormones and mental health across puberty, the reproductive years, perinatal periods, and menopause. Faculty will review common clinical presentations, discuss evidence-based treatment considerations, and provide practical guidance for addressing the unique mental health needs of women throughout the lifespan.

Speaker

Friday, December 04 3:20–4:20 PM
Room Grand Cypress GHI
Faculty

Miriam Dineen

MMS, PA-C, CAQ-Psych
Physician Associate
Banyan Integrated Health

Miriam Dineen, MMS, PA-C, CAQ-Psych, is the lead clinician at Banyan Integrated Health. She has been practicing since 2009 and has a rich background in internal medicine, integrative medicine, and psychiatry, with a focus on mental health's impact on overall well-being. Her diverse clinical experience has shaped her holistic, patient-centered approach to care.

As an experienced clinician, she understands that medication management is just part of the bigger picture of health and happiness. She excels in treating patients of all ages, tailoring care to meet individual needs, and working closely with multidisciplinary care teams. Her expertise lies in addressing complex health challenges with an integrative, team-based approach.

Miriam majored in neuroscience and graduated with distinction from the University of Virginia. She has a Certificate of Added Qualification in Psychiatry from NCCPA and a Master of Medical Science degree from Wake Forest University. Miriam also serves as a clinical preceptor and guest lecturer at High Point University and Wake Forest University, and she has delivered continuing medical education programs at local and state conferences nationwide.

Outside of work, Miriam enjoys traveling, college football, and spending quality time with friends and family. Her active lifestyle and love for connection reflect the balance and joy she brings to both her personal and professional life.

Faculty

Veronica Ridpath

DO
University of South Carolina School of Medicine - Columbia
Faculty

Kathryn Werner

MPAS, PA-C, CAQ - Psychiatry
CEO & Lead Clinician
White Pine Mental Health & Wellness

Kathryn Werner is the CEO and Lead Clinician at White PIne Mental Health & Wellness. Since graduating from Idaho State University's PA program in 2007, she has predominantly practiced outpatient psychiatry but also internal medicine, urgent care, and gastroenterology/hepatology. Kathryn has had roles as primary and adjunct faculty at Faulkner University and Mississippi State University, speaks at various state PA events, and is currently adjunct faculty with ThriveAP providing postgraduate psychiatry education to NPs and PAs advancing their careers. Her mission is to provide comprehensive, relationally oriented psychiatric care for patients while also expanding excellence in psychiatric care through educating other providers.

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