This Labor Day and during Recovery Month, we honor the work of those in recovery, and the workers and community that support them. For information about regional recovery resources check out our Behavioral Health Resource Guide or give Mid Shore Regional Health, Inc. a call at 410-770-4801. | | |
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 people with lived experience, enjoy a dunkin' booth, Hula Hoop Love performance, play in foam, face painting, and enter to win FREE raffle prizes (youth bikes, electronics, a scooter, wellness products, household goods, a flat screen tv and more!) all while coming together to raise awareness and take a stand against substance misuse and overdose.
A Spanish language interpreter will be present.
Click here to learn more about Going Purple Events on the mid-shore
| | MSBH Hosts August 20th Consortium on Coordinated Community Supports Meeting | | |
Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc. recently hosted the August 20th meeting of the Maryland Consortium on Coordinated Community Supports, bringing together school leaders, providers, and state partners to highlight progress from the program’s first year.
The initiative, supported by the Maryland Community Health Resources Commission, last school year, served more than 6,000 mid-shore students with high-quality behavioral health and related services. $5 million in funding will support the Mid Shore Community Supports Partnership during the 2025–2026 school year, coordinated by MSBH as the regional Hub.
The gathering also featured provider success stories, student testimony, and the unveiling of the new Hub Program logo symbolizing resilience and growth.
Read the full press release here
| | Roadmap to Strengthen Maryland's Public Behavioral Health System for Children, Youth, and Families | | |
The Behavioral Health Administration, in partnership with the Maryland Coalition of Families and Manatt Health, developed a Roadmap to strengthen Maryland’s public behavioral health system (PBHS) for children, youth, and families. The initiative prioritizes equity and aims to improve access to quality home- and community-based care.
The Roadmap responds to urgent concerns, including high rates of youth sadness and hopelessness, drug and alcohol overdoses, prolonged emergency department boarding, and suicide among young people. It outlines five key goals and ten strategies designed to enhance the PBHS and better meet the behavioral health needs of Maryland’s children and families.
Read the Roadmap.
| | September is National Recovery Month | | |
Each September, National Recovery Month celebrates the strength and resilience of individuals in recovery while raising awareness about the importance of mental health and substance use treatment. The observance highlights that recovery is possible and promotes hope by sharing success stories that inspire others. Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc. is proud to join in recognizing Recovery Month and honoring the recovery journeys of individuals and families across the Mid-Shore.
Click here to view SAMHSA's 2025 Recovery Month Toolkit.
Click here to view CDC's Recovery Month Toolkit.
| | September is Suicide Prevention Awarenesess Month | | |
September marks Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on the issue, inspire hope, and remind people that seeking help is a sign of strength. Suicide impacts millions each year, yet far too many carry their pain alone. No matter if you’re going through difficulties yourself, offering support to someone you care about, or working to make a difference in your community, your role is important. This month focuses on recognizing suicide warning signs, fostering honest conversations about mental health, and connecting individuals with effective care and resources. This month also includes 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Day on September 8th, a reminder that help is always just three digits away.
Click here to view suicide prevention resources on the Eastern Shore of Maryland
Click here to view SAMHSA's Suicide Prevention Awareness Month Toolkit
Click here to view NAMI's Suicide Prevention Awareness Month Toolkit
Click here to view the 988 Day Toolkit
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Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc. is excited to welcome Mary McDermott as our newest intern with the Forensic Mental Health team. Mary shares that she will be earning her BASW this spring with plans to pursue her MSW, adding that she is passionate about the intersections of mental health, trauma, addiction, and the criminal justice system. Her personal advocacy for loved ones in hospice and addiction care inspired her commitment to social work, with a focus on empowering individuals. A proud spouse and mother of four, Mary also brings diverse experience as a contracts manager, artist, campaign treasurer, runner, and yogi.
“MSBH is committed to supporting internships as these experiences reflect our dedication that blends academics with real world professional experiences,” shared Alisha Saulsbury, LCSW-C, MSBH Forensic Mental Health Program Manager. “These opportunities strengthen the pipeline of future professionals, and the Forensic Mental Health team looks forward to supporting Mary’s journey and the contributions she will make.”
| | Recognizing MSBH Team Member Anniversaries | | |
Please join us in recognizing and celebrating Yvette Hynson, MS, CIRS, for her dedicated service and work anniversary! This month marks Yvette's fifth year working with Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc., as a Certified SOAR Case Specialist and Certified Aging In Place Specialist.
Yvette, we are grateful for the passion, commitment, and care you bring to your work every day. Thank you for all you do!
| | What's happening to support recovery, suicide prevention, and behavioral health in the mid-shore? Check out the Mid-Shore Planning Collaborative's Community Behavioral Health Plan. | | Save the Date:
12th Annual Sequential Intercept Model (SIM) Conference | | |
Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc. is excited to announce the 12th Annual Sequential Intercept Model (SIM) Conference, titled “Beyond Boundaries: Intercepting Challenges, Mapping Hope.” This important event will take place on Friday, November 14, 2025, from 8:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. at Temple B’nai Israel, 7199 Tristan Drive, Easton, MD 21601.
The SIM Conference brings together professionals, community partners, and stakeholders to explore innovative strategies for addressing behavioral health and criminal justice challenges.
Look for a registration link in October.
Click here to learn more.
| | Support His Hope Ministries Shelter! | | |
Join the Meal Train® to help feed 15 adults and 11 kids at His Hope Ministries Shelter in Denton, MD, and support people experiencing homelessness in our community. Meal Train® is an easy way to organize and provide meals for those in need. Meals can be dropped off at 5:45 PM, and volunteers are welcome to stay and share the meal. Salads and bottled water are always appreciated!
To help provide meals for those in need by visiting here.
| | Extreme Heat Safety Reminder | | |
Extreme heat can be dangerous, and it’s important to take precautions to stay safe during high temperatures. In week 33 of the 2025 heat season, our region recorded 11 emergency department and urgent care visits related to heat illness, as well as one tragic heat-related death. These numbers underscore the serious risks posed by extreme temperatures. We encourage everyone to continue sharing information about local cooling centers so community members know where to go for relief.
A full list of community cooling stations is available here.
| | 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.
| | 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.
- 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 13th, 2025, 8 AM – 12 PM: Eastern Shore Talk: Self-Care Expo. Talbot County Community Center, 10028 Ocean Gateway, Easton, MD.
- 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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- Channel Marker is hiring a Youth Rehab Specialist/Case Manager in Denton, MD. This role supports youth clients in Caroline County, providing mental health services both individually and in groups, at program locations and within the community. Team-oriented, flexible, and energetic candidates with an associate’s degree (bachelor’s preferred) are encouraged to apply here.
- Dorchester County Health Department is hiring mental health clinicians (LCSW-C) to work in an expansion of the School-Based Wellness Center program. Position would serve early elementary ages (PreK -2nd grade) in a small Tier II behavior program. Individual and family treatment, classroom-wide groups, and case management. Please apply via Maryland State application if interested and/or contact Mindy Black-Kelly, LCSW-C, for more information, 443.521.1662 mindy.black-kelly@maryland.gov
- 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 | | |
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is awarding $19 million in new supplemental funding to states through the Community Mental Health Services Block Grant (MHSBG) for efforts to address the intersection of homelessness and serious mental illness (SMI). This funding advances the President’s Executive Order, Ending Crime and Disorder on America’s Streets.
Click here to learn more
| Governor Moore Launches Rural Advancement for Maryland Peers Program to Combat Substance Use in Rural Communities | |
The Maryland Department of Labor is accepting applications for the Rural Advancement for Maryland Peers (RAMP) program, funded through a $2 million award from the Maryland Office of Overdose Response’s Opioid Restitution Fund. The program provides grant funding to expand the peer recovery workforce by supporting training, certification, advancement, and retention of Certified Peer Recovery Specialists (CPRS) in rural Maryland. Eligible applicants include organizations able to serve rural communities most impacted by workforce shortages and opioid-related overdoses. Grants of up to $200,000 are available for activities conducted between February 1, 2026, and May 31, 2028. Application deadline: November 21st, 2025, at 11:59 PM.
Click here to learn more
| Byrne State Crisis Intervention Program (Byrne SCIP/BSCI) | | |
The Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention, Youth, and Victim Services (GOCPYVS) is accepting applications for the Byrne State Crisis Intervention Program (Byrne SCIP/BSCI), authorized by the 2022 Bipartisan Safer Communities Act. The grant funds firearm violence reduction strategies at the intersections of behavioral health and domestic violence, including crisis intervention court proceedings and Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPO). Eligible applicants include nonprofits, domestic violence programs, victim service providers, law enforcement agencies, courts, state agencies, and institutions of higher learning. Application deadline: September 5th, 2025, at 11:59 PM.
Click here to learn more
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The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced a $100M pilot funding opportunity to prevent, test for, treat, and cure Hepatitis C (HCV) in individuals with substance use disorder (SUD) and/or Serious Mental Illness (SMI). This program is particularly designed to support communities severely affected by homelessness and to gain insights on effective ways to identify patients, complete treatment, cure infections, and reduce reinfection by Hepatitis C (a liver disease caused by the Hepatitis C virus).
Click here to learn more
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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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