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Behavioral Health News, Events, & More
for the Mid-Shore Region
| | Save the Date: Going Purple Together 2025 | | |
The 2025 Going Purple Together Event will take place in Queen Anne's County at Church Hill Park on September 27th from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. This community event will feature local vendors, activities, and valuable resources for behavioral health and harm reduction.
Attendees can hear stories of hope and recovery from peers with lived experience, enjoy fun and engaging activities, and enter to win raffle prizes—all while coming together to raise awareness and take a stand against substance misuse, abuse, and overdose.
Click here for vendor registration.
| | Caroline County Problem Solving Court Team Selected for National Training | | |
The Caroline County Problem Solving Court (CCPSC) team was one of just two Maryland teams selected for a prestigious national training hosted by All Rise. Held July 15–16 at the Maryland Judiciary in Annapolis, the event welcomed teams from across the country for two days of intensive learning focused on improving problem solving court practices.
Problem-solving courts help reduce recidivism through effective and treatment–oriented solutions. They peel back the layers of criminogenic behavior and how this is often linked to behavioral health challenges. Ultimately, by treating these challenges, the participant can then begin to live their “best life” by maintaining sobriety and avoiding future interactions with the justice system.
Alisha Saulsbury, LCSW-C, Forensic Mental Health Manager at Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc., shared: “We spent the two days reviewing cases, internally looking at how to improve policy and procedure, and best practice standards, regarding incentives, sanctions, and service (treatment/clinical) adjustments. It was an incredibly valuable experience".
The training offered the CCPSC team new insights, peer collaboration, and forward-looking strategies to further enhance outcomes for court participants and the broader community.
Learn more about MSBH's Forensic Mental Health Program here.
| | Pictured Left to Right: Luke Dixon, Deputy Warden; Michael Donahue Assistant States Attorney; Dana Boston , MD Office of the Public Defender; Gordon Geasey Caroline Deputy Sheriff's Office; Keith Hook, Case Manager, Caroline PSC; (front) Michelle Bethke, Caroline PSC Coordinator; Judge Heather Price, Administrative Judge, Caroline Circuit Court; Alisha Saulsbury, MSBH Forensic Mental Health Mgr., and Kimberly Taylor, Outpatient SUD Manager - Project Chesapeake. | | Recognizing MSBH Team Member Anniversaries | | |
Please join us in recognizing and celebrating Tyaira Johnson, CNA/GNA, for her dedicated service and work anniversary! This month marks Tyaira's second year working with Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc., as a Statewide Assisted Living Specialist.
Tyaira, we are grateful for the passion, commitment, and care you bring to your work every day. Thank you for all you do!
| | Help Us Keep Our Resource Guide and Network of Care Updated | | |
Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc. maintains an annually updated Resource Guide for behavioral health services on our website, along with a digital resource directory through the Network of Care. These tools help individuals and providers quickly find local services and supports in Maryland.
We invite behavioral health providers/resources local to Maryland to review their listings and submit updates or new entries for inclusion in either or both resources. You can use the link below to submit your information.
Please note: all submissions will be reviewed before posting, and inclusion is not guaranteed.
Review the MSBH 2025 Resource Guide and Network of Care here.
Submit additions/corrections to either using this form.
| | Upcoming Stakeholder Meetings on COMAR 10.63 Behavioral Health Regulations | | |
The Maryland Behavioral Health Administration will hold virtual stakeholder meetings to review and discuss comments on COMAR 10.63 regulations. Sessions begin July 30, 2025, and will cover Chapters 1, 2, 6, and 9, focusing on provider compliance, staffing, licensure, and corrective actions. These meetings aim to present feedback themes and gather further input.
Full details and links are available on
BHA COMAR 10.63 Proposed Regulations wesite
MDH ORPC website
| | New Resource: Overdose Measures Matter | | |
The CDC Foundation has launched OverdoseMeasuresMatter.org, a new resource offering practical tools for communities working to prevent overdose. The site includes guidance on selecting key indicators, using data effectively, and communicating impact to support program planning and funding.
Visit the website to learn more.
| | Roadmap for Youth Behavioral Health in Maryland | | |
The Behavioral Health Administration (BHA) has released a Roadmap to Strengthen Maryland’s Public Behavioral Health System for Children, Youth, and Families. The three to five year strategic plan is shaped by data and family input. It outlines reforms to improve the accessibility, quality, and equity of behavioral health services statewide. Local leaders are encouraged to promote the roadmap and share Maryland-specific data to raise awareness of children’s behavioral health needs. This living document serves as a planning guide, not a mandate, and underscores BHA’s commitment to addressing system gaps through community collaboration. This resource was the result of a partnership between the Behavioral Health Administration (BHA), the Maryland Coalition of Families (MCF), and Manatt Health.
Read the Roadmap here.
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MSBH is one of five nonprofit organizations in Maryland that serve as a Core Service Agency (CSA), and it is the largest regional CSA in the state. We serve five counties on the Eastern Shore: Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s, and Talbot. Our main role is to plan, manage, and monitor publicly funded, medically necessary behavioral health services for people of all ages—children, teens, adults, and older adults—in these counties.
We invite you to explore our Community Behavioral Health Plan, which outlines goals and strategies to improve behavioral health services in the mid-shore region. This plan was created in collaboration with the local addiction authorities from each of the five counties, a group known as the Mid-Shore Planning Collaborative (MSPC). Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc. joins organizations nationwide in celebrating National Nonprofit Day on August 17th. This day recognizes the powerful impact nonprofits have in supporting communities and improving lives.
As a nonprofit serving Maryland’s mid-shore region, we’re committed to expanding access to behavioral health care and building strong local partnerships. Today, we salute the supporters, staff, and fellow organizations who help make this mission possible.
| | International Overdose Awareness Day | | |
August 31st marks International Overdose Awareness Day, the world’s largest annual campaign to end overdose, remember those lost, and support individuals, families, and communities affected by substance use. This global observance raises awareness about overdose risks, promotes prevention strategies, and works to reduce the stigma surrounding substance use and mental health. In support of these efforts, Mid Shore Behavioral Health’s Harm Reduction program offers free, life-saving resources to the public, including Naloxone, Fentanyl and Xylazine test strips, medication lock boxes, as well as Safe Sex, Hygiene, and Wound Care Kits. Additionally, the CDC Foundation has launched OverdoseMeasuresMatter.org, a new resource that provides practical tools to help communities prevent overdoses by selecting key indicators, using data effectively, and communicating impact to strengthen program planning and funding.
Visit OverdoseMeasuresMatter.org
Learn more about MSBH's Harm Reduction Program.
Learn more about Maryland overdose resources.
Learn more and explore CDC’s free International Overdose Awareness Day toolkits.
| | Behavioral Health Surveys | | Steering Wheel Feedback Survey | | |
We've heard your feedback! The Steering Wheel will be a single-month issue format to incorporate the suggestions from our subscribers. Please continue to give us feedback so we can keep providing the best resources possible.
Please take a few moments to share your thoughts by clicking on this survey link.
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The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has released the results of the 2024 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), which shows how people living in the United States reported their experiences with mental health conditions, substance use, and pursuit of treatment. This year marks the first year since 2020 in which there are at least four years of comparable data for key NSDUH outcomes to enable reporting of trends.
Visit the website to learn more
| | In-Person Trainings & Events | |
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- Click here to view the full list of the Mental Health Association of Maryland's "Resiliency Road Trip" training series.
- August 1st, 2025, 5 PM - 8 PM: Chester National Night Out Block Party: New United Methodist Church, 100 Union Wesley Circle, Chester, MD.
- August 5th, 2025, 5 PM - 8 PM: Easton National Night Out Event: Morton Park, Easton, MD.
- August 10th: Blake-Blackston American Legion Post 70: Community School Supplies Giveaway and Festival. 29511 Canvasback Dr, Easton, MD.
- August 12th, 2025, 4 PM - 6 PM: 4th Annual Caroline Community Engagement/Resource Day. Chambers Park, 100 Kinder Street, Federalsburg MD.
- August 13th, 2025, 10 AM – 2 PM: Eastern Shore Regional Child Support Offices: 50th Anniversary Maryland Child Support Resource & Expungement Fair. 2737 Dorchester Square, Cambridge, MD 21613.
- August 23rd, 2025, 12 PM: Caroline County Public Library: What is an Almshouse? Documentary Screening and Q&A. 100 Market Street, Denton, MD. No registration required.
- August 25th, 2025, 9 AM – 3 PM: Eastern Shore Wellness: 10th Annual Back to School Health & Readiness Event. Intergenerational Center, 108 Chesapeake St., Cambridge, MD.
- September 10th, 2025, 10 AM – 3:30 PM: American Red Cross: Blood Drive. Talbot County Health Department, Main Conference Room, 510 Cadmus Lane, Easton, MD 21601.
- September 13th, 2025, 9 AM: Drug Free Caroline: Purple Paddle event. Martin State Park Boat Landing. For more info email here.
- September 20th, 2025, 12 PM – 1:30 PM: Caroline County Public Library: From Conflict to Connection – Raising Resilient Teens. 100 Market Street, Denton, MD. No registration required.
- October 2nd, 2025, 6 PM – 7:30 PM: Caroline County Public Library: Co-parenting – Strategies for Success. 100 Market Street, Denton, MD. No registration required.
- November 3rd, 5th, and 7th, 2025, All Day: National Federation of Families: Annual Conference. 9841 Washingtonian Blvd Suite 200, Gaithersburg, MD.
- November 6th, 2025, 6 PM – 7:30 PM: Caroline County Public Library: Bridging Gaps – Enhancing Workplace Collaboration. 100 Market Street, Denton, MD. No registration required.
- October 18th, 2025, 10 AM - 1 PM: Talbot Family Network: Talbot Resource Expo. Easton Elementary School, Easton, MD. Exhibitor setup at 9 AM. No registration required.
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- View all Maryland Family and Youth Interventions for Substance Use (Maryland FYI) Free Provider Training and Family Support Opportunities here.
- View all Eastern Shore Area Health Education Center SUD Series here.
- View Maryland Digital Equity Coalition: Digital Equity Grant Webinar Planning Series here.
| | Mid Shore Suicide Coalition | | |
The Mid Shore Suicide Coalition, a partnership between Channel Marker and Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc., focuses on suicide prevention through educational resources, training initiatives, and community events. The coalition offers toolkits, suicide prevention training, and a variety of resources for survivors of suicide loss, along with support for individuals and communities impacted by suicide.
To join or learn more, visit Mid Shore Suicide Coalition.
| | Suicide Prevention Training Tailored for Those Who Work with Athletes | | |
The Behavioral Health Administration’s Office of Suicide Prevention is offering a free QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) training designed specifically for those who work with athletes. This valuable training provides tools to support and educate the large athletic community in the mid-shore region. Flyers tailored to different sports—as well as a general version—are available to help spread the word.
Click here to view sport-specific training fliers
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- Mid Shore Therapist Support Network: A monthly network group for therapists who are open to working with lgbtq+ individuals and need to build skills and confidence to do so. Email Rachel Hutchison for more information.
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Grief Share Recovery Group meets Thursdays, 6:30 - 8:30 PM, starting February 6th to May 1st. Bethlehem Wesleyan Church, Preston, MD.
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NAMI KQA offers a free online peer-led Family Support Group, for family members of older teens and adults struggling with serious mental illness -- the FSG meets twice a month. More info at 443-480-0565 or namikentandqueenannes@gmail.com.
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Talbot Mentors Parent Support Group, the last Wednesday of every month. This support group focuses on three areas that families have identified as important: Financial Literacy, Mental Health, and Art.
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The Maryland Crime Victims’ Resource Center, Inc. (MCVRC) invites families and friends of homicide victims to participate in a safe peer support group. MCVRC welcomes individuals, families, and friends to benefit from this free support service whether or not there has been an arrest or prosecution. To join, please call MCVRC at 301-952-0063 and do an intake with an advocate. This group meets on the first Tuesday evening of every month in a hybrid format.
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Delmarva Gender Expression Movement (GEM) is a support group for those exploring or identifying anywhere along the gender spectrum. They meet every 3rd Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at UUFE. The address is 7401 Ocean Gateway, Easton—email Tina.
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- CASA of the Mid-Shore is hiring a part-time Case Supervisor (20–30 hours/week) to support volunteer advocates working with children involved in the court system due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment. Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, or a related field and have at least two years of experience in child welfare or human services. The Case Supervisor will train and supervise CASA Volunteers, attend court hearings, and maintain strong relationships with partners. This role is part of a mission-driven, child-centered team. For more information, contact CASA of the Mid-Shore at (410) 822-2866.
- The Parents’ Place of Maryland is hiring Family Peer Support Specialists (FPSS) across the state to support families navigating mental health, substance use, and problem gambling challenges. Applicants must have lived experience caring for a loved one with behavioral health needs. Additional openings include Program Director, Regional Supervisors, Intake/Program Assistant, and Financial/HR Assistant. Services will be available in English and Spanish through one-on-one support, workshops, and groups. For more information and to apply, visit the careers section here.
- CASA of the Mid-Shore is hiring a Case Supervisor to train, supervise, and support Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Volunteers working with children in the court system due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment. This full-time position requires a bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, or a related field, and at least two years of experience in child welfare or human services. Strong oral and written communication skills and a commitment to child advocacy are essential. Background checks are required in accordance with National and State CASA standards. To apply, send your resume to info@casamidshore.org.
- Channel Marker, Inc. is hiring full-time Mental Health Case Managers/Rehab Specialists in Denton, MD to support youth or adults in Caroline County through individual and group mental health services. Applicants must be 21 or older, hold at least an Associate’s degree, and have a valid driver’s license. Channel Marker is also hiring Residential Overnight Group Home Counselors to assist individuals in their recovery journey. For more information and to apply, visit the employment section here.
- The Shelter Alliance, a non-profit organization in Chestertown, MD, is seeking a full-time Executive Director. The ideal candidate will have experience in shelter operations, nonprofit management, and fundraising, with a commitment to supporting individuals experiencing homelessness. Responsibilities include program and resource management, community outreach, policy development, and personnel oversight. For best consideration, view the job posting here.
- CASA of Caroline, Inc., an established non-profit located in central Denton, MD, seeks a qualified professional to serve as its next Executive Director. Qualified professionals should have a master’s degree in social work, psychology, or child welfare-related field, or a bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 5 years of experience in child welfare and/or case management. Applicants who have knowledge & understanding of the juvenile court system and the needs of abused & neglected children are preferred. Other desired areas of skills and knowledge include grant writing, volunteer management, public relations, fundraising & development, as well as excellent written and oral communication skills. Please send your resume to carolinecasa@verizon.net.
- Dorchester County CWS is hiring compassionate individuals to serve as paid shelter monitors from December 1st through March 31st, with evening and overnight shifts available on weeknights and weekends. Applications are accepted in person at Delmarva Community Services, Inc., 2450 Cambridge Beltway, Monday through Friday, from 9 AM to 4 PM.
- For All Seasons is seeking dedicated professionals for multiple positions, including Licensed Therapist, Licensed School-Based Therapist, and Licensed Therapist (Forensic Program). Ideal candidates will provide trauma-informed clinical services and support clients in various settings. These full-time opportunities offer competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits. Click here to apply.
| | Introduction to Careers in Healthcare (ITCH) Program | | |
The Introduction to Careers in Healthcare (ITCH) program, established in 2023, connects middle and high school students in Caroline, Chestertown, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s, and Talbot Counties with career opportunities in the medical field. ITCH provides hands-on experiences, mentorship, and career planning to help students explore healthcare professions beyond what they see on TV. Through job shadowing, internships, and professional guidance, ITCH empowers young people to build confidence, develop career goals, and support the future of local healthcare.
Learn more here.
| | Grant & Funding Opportunities | | Rural Maryland Council Hosting FY2026 Grant Information Series | | |
The Rural Maryland Council is offering $6 million in funding for rural communities through two grant programs: the Rural Maryland Prosperity Investment Fund (RMPIF) and the Maryland Agricultural Education and Rural Development Assistance Fund (MAERDAF). To support applicants, RMC will host five FY2026 Grant Information Sessions this spring, both virtually and in person across the state. These sessions will offer attendees the chance to connect with RMC staff and learn about program eligibility, priorities, and application processes. Lunch will be provided at the in-person events.
Registration links and full details are available at rural.maryland.gov.
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Caroline County Residents
Kent County Residents
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Queen Anne's County Residents
Talbot County Residents
| | Mid Shore Health Improvement Coalition Interactive Food Resource List | | |
The Mid Shore Health Improvement Coalition provides a range of food resources to support individuals and families in need across the region. From food pantries and soup kitchens available daily to mobile meal services through Shore Gourmet 'SHO-GO,' fresh groceries and prepared meals are delivered to various locations in Caroline, Dorchester, and Talbot counties. The coalition also supports homebound seniors through Meals on Wheels, as well as students and families with weekend food through Backpack Programs.
For more information on eligibility and services, visit their website or reach out to the coalition directly.
| | Additional Links & Resources | | New Spanish Resources from Mental Health America | | |
Mental Health America (MHA) is excited to offer new Spanish-language resources designed to support young people's mental health. The Supporting Young Minds guides feature practical tools, including sample communications, engaging classroom activities, colorful handouts, and a DIY worksheet and poster. Ideal for parents, educators, and caregivers, these free guides provide valuable resources for empowering Spanish-speaking youth and promoting mental well-being.
Get the guide here.
| | Mid Shore Health Improvement Coalition | | |
The Mid Shore Health Improvement Coalition is making it easier to get connected to health resources in the region.
Residents can now text MIDSHORE to 898-211 and receive a monthly notification with a calendar of health events taking place within Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne's, and Talbot counties.
Find health fairs, support groups, new parent classes, blood pressure screening, food pantries, walking groups, diabetes prevention programs, and so much more!
| | The A.F. Whitsitt Center is now offering convenient pick-up services for individuals seeking treatment. This new initiative ensures that transportation is no longer a barrier to accessing care. Scan the qr code in the image below to learn more. | | Click here for a centralized electronic resource for community partners on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, focusing on Autism-related needs such as events, education, medical support, advocacy, and mental health. | | |
Do your patients currently have health insurance through Medicaid or the
Maryland Children’s Health Program (MCHP)?
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This year, Medicaid renewals are not automatic.
- Ask your patients to make sure their contact information is up to date with Maryland Health Connection.
- Encourage them to be on the lookout for notices, as they will be contacted by mail or through their online account when it’s their turn to renew.
- And please stress the importance of completing renewals on time. Participants can log in to their account at MarylandHealthConnection.gov/Checkin or call 855-642-8572 to get started.
| | BHIPP Consultation Warmline is Available Year-Round | Child mental health specialists are available Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. (except on major holidays) to provide consultation in many areas of behavioral health including medication management, diagnostic issues, developmental delays, school/learning issues, autism spectrum disorders, trauma, and early childhood mental health. Call 855-Md-BHIPP (632-4477) Click here for more information. | | |
DEI Impact Statement
Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc. acknowledges that behavioral health systems have historically been used as a tool to perpetuate racism. Racism causes trauma. Racial bias within these systems cultivates health disparities and inequities, which can reinforce racial oppression.
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Value Statement
Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc. is devoted to providing exceptional service to our community with passion and commitment to our core values: Integrity, Inclusive Collaboration, Progressive Leadership, and Advocacy.
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Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc.
28578 Mary’s Court, Suite 1
Easton, MD 21601
410-770-4801
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