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Behavioral Health News, Events, & More
for the Mid-Shore Region
January
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Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc.'s Continuum of Care Team (CoC) will be hosting the Point In Time (PIT) Count on January 29th, where we will conduct a literal count of all individuals experiencing homelessness in the Mid Shore community on a single night. This count is vital for reporting to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), helping assess the allocation of resources for homelessness services. Nationally, every community in the U.S. will be conducting a similar count to support efforts in addressing homelessness. We encourage everyone to attend and participate in this important initiative. For more information, please email Ashley Kessinger, CoC Manager. For volunteer opportunities, please email Jimmy Morris. | |
2025 Beyond Inclusion Conference: Save the Date! | |
Mark your calendar for the Second Annual Beyond Inclusion Conference, which will be held on February 28th at the Oxford Community Center. This year's theme is "Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers." Join us for a day dedicated to fostering equity, inclusion, and community growth. Registration and additional details are coming soon! | |
Maryland Department of Health Issues Vape Warning | |
The Maryland Department of Health (MDH) is urging healthcare providers to monitor for adverse health effects related to vaping and e-cigarette use, especially among young individuals. Recent reports from central Maryland describe acute reactions such as loss of consciousness, agitation, nausea, and neurologic symptoms shortly after vaping. Providers are encouraged to contact the Maryland Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 and their local health department to report cases and share details about clinical symptoms, substances detected, and product sources. While the specific cause remains unidentified, MDH emphasizes the potential dangers of cannabinoids, which can cause severe toxicity including seizures, hallucinations, and acute kidney injury. | |
SAMHSA Releases Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month Toolkit | |
SAMHSA has released a toolkit for the first Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month, to be observed in January 2025. The month aims to raise awareness about the benefits and availability of evidence-based treatments for individuals with substance use disorders, address barriers like stigma, and encourage seeking help. The toolkit includes weekly themes, social media graphics and messaging, a webinar background, and resources for public health organizations, treatment providers, and professional associations to help spread awareness of Treatment Month. To get the toolkit and learn more, visit: Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month | SAMHSA. | |
SAMHSA Releases Resources to Help Communities Address Trauma and Mental Health Impacts of Gun Violence | |
On November 25, 2024, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) released resources to help communities address the trauma and mental health impacts of gun violence. These resources are part of the Biden-Harris Administration's efforts to reduce gun violence and support affected communities, following executive actions announced in September 2024. The resources include tips for survivors, behavioral health best practices, and lessons learned from SAMHSA’s ReCAST program, which provides trauma-informed services to communities impacted by violence, and have been supported by funding from the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA). Learn more here. | |
Human Trafficking Awareness Month | |
Human Trafficking Awareness Month, observed every January, aims to raise awareness about the pervasive issue of human trafficking. Check out the Department of Health and Human Services 2025 Human Trafficking Prevention Month Toolkit here. | |
Maternal Health Awareness Day | |
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January 25th is Maternal Health Awareness Day, a time to reflect on the critical need for equitable access to maternal health care. Women often face additional challenges, including language barriers, stigma, and concerns about accessing care that aligns with their values and needs.
For resources and support, visit Maryland's Healthy New Moms campaign, which raises awareness about perinatal mental health and provides valuable information to moms, families, and providers by clicking here.
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Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc. Is Hiring! | |
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Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc. is seeking a Marketing & Events Coordinator:
- The Marketing & Events Coordinator will manage communications, event planning, social media, and graphic design. The role involves coordinating external communications, including newsletters, press releases, and training events while working with a diverse team and community partners. Preferred candidates will have a bachelor’s degree in a related field, experience in event coordination and marketing, and strong organizational, communication, and graphic design skills. To apply click here.
For information about regional job openings in the human services field, please scroll down, just past the listing of area support groups.
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Behavioral Health News and Reports | |
New Program for Youth Struggling with Substance and Opioid Use Disorders | |
On September 11, 2024, the Maryland Department of Health, in collaboration with Montgomery County, launched a new Residential Substance Use Disorder Treatment program for minors in Baltimore City. This program, funded by the Opioid Restitution and Abatement Funds, offers high-intensity inpatient care with 15 beds specifically for Maryland youth under 21. Maryland Health Secretary Dr. Laura Herrera Scott emphasized the importance of this facility in filling a critical gap in adolescent substance use treatment. County Executive Marc Elrich and Dr. Marc Fishman highlighted the program's potential to provide essential support and recovery services for struggling youth. For more information, visit Maryland Behavioral Health Resources. | |
Behavioral Health Surveys | |
Steering Wheel Feedback Survey | |
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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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Post-Election LGBTQIA+ Community Survey | |
The Maryland Commission on LGBTQIA+ Affairs is committed to addressing concerns and uncertainties within the LGBTQIA+ community following the recent presidential election. The Commission, established in 2021 and updated in 2023, works to assess challenges and develop best practices for inclusion. Community members and allies are invited to complete an anonymous survey by November 30, 2024, to help identify immediate needs and ensure diverse voices are heard across Maryland. Click here to take the survey. | |
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.
- January 5th, 2025, 2 PM - 6 PM: Dr. Nerissa D & Family: Mental Health with Daddy and Me. Temple Hills Community Center, 5300 Temple Hill Road, Temple Hills, MD.
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- View all Maryland Family and Youth Interventions for Substance Use (Maryland FYI) Free Provider Training and Family Support Opportunities here.
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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.
- Anne Arundel County Department of Health Youth Support Group for youths ages 12-17. Call 410-222-7076 for more details.
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Discover Chesapeake Creative Wellness! | |
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Founded by Navy veteran Darrin Pruitt, Chesapeake Creative Wellness is transforming lives through art, music, and connection. This nonprofit, inspired by programs like Alice Cooper’s Solid Rock Center, provides a welcoming space for veterans and community members dealing with PTSD and anxiety.
Located at 31A Creamery Lane in Easton, the studio hosts music sessions, art parties, and outreach programs like monthly events at Walter Reed. Want to get involved? Whether you’re an artist, musician, or just have time to help, Chesapeake Creative Wellness invites you to join their mission.
Visit Chesapeake Creative Wellness at 31A Creamery Lane in Easton or call 410-340-6257.
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- The Dorchester County Council (Council) is issuing a Request for Proposal (RFP) to procure the contract services of an attorney or several attorneys, licensed in the State of Maryland, to serve as legal counsel and Director of the new Dorchester County Family Advocacy Clinic. This position is grant-funded and the Dorchester County Circuit Court (Court) is the administrator of such grant. The Council intends to make a single award as a result of this RFP. If multiple attorneys submit a proposal, it is expected that they will submit their proposal together and identify which of them will serve as the Director of the Clinic. To learn more click here.
- Dorchester County District Court's Veterans Treatemnt Court is seeking a Problem solving Case Manager. To review job description and apply, click 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. This position is 30 hours/week, and the salary range is $60,000-$70,000. 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.
- The Caroline County Health Department is seeking a dedicated Mental Health Graduate Professional Counselor to provide clinical social work services to behavioral health consumers. This role involves working in both outpatient and school-based settings, with a focus on high-risk consumers who present with complex needs. The counselor will serve children, adolescents, and adults, delivering essential mental health care with minimal supervision. Click here to learn more.
- Kent County Department of Social Services is looking for a Social Worker and a Family Service Caseworker. Interested individuals should reach out to Jen Cole at 410-810-7711 or jenr.cole@maryland.gov. The full job description can be viewed here.
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Grant & Funding Opportunities | |
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BHA’s Office of Consumer Affairs Behavioral Health Professionals Certification Board (MABPCB) program funds the following services:
- Application and Examination costs for those seeking their Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) Certification in Maryland
- Re-testing costs for those who fail the CPRS Examination on their first try, and need to do a re-test
- Application costs for those seeking their Registered Peer Supervisor (RPS) Certification in Maryland
These funds will cover initial certifications and recertification.
Click here for more information.
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Caroline County Residents
Kent County Residents
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Queen Anne's County Residents
Talbot County Residents
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New Food Benefits Program: Maryland SUN Bucks | |
Governor Wes Moore announced the launch of Maryland SUN Bucks, a new program providing $120 for groceries to each eligible school-aged child during the summer. This initiative aims to support families who lose access to free and reduced-price school meals during the summer months. By leveraging the state Summer SNAP program and the federal Summer EBT Program, Maryland SUN Bucks will now serve 540,000 students across all 24 local jurisdictions, significantly expanding its reach. This $60 million investment ensures that families throughout Maryland can access healthy, nutritious food during the summer. Learn more here. | |
Additional Links & Resources | |
Discover New Wellness Events at Coastal Counseling & Wellness! | |
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Coastal Counseling & Wellness is excited to offer new community Wellness Events focused on guided meditation and art-based relaxation. These small group sessions are perfect for nurturing your mental well-being and fostering relaxation. Registration is required, so visit the Coastal Counseling & Wellness website or call 443-786-5437 to reserve your spot!
Upcoming Events:
- January 17th: 9 AM - 10 AM & 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM: Guided Meditation with Sound Bath
- January 24th: 9 AM - 10:30 AM & 6:30 PM - 8 PM: Doodle Art Relaxation with Goal Setting
- January 31st: 9 AM - 10 AM & 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM: Guided Meditation with Sound Bath
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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! | |
Maryland Behavioral Health Administration Burial Assistance | |
The Maryland Behavioral Health Administration provides resources for families struggling with the cost of burials. Through their programs, they offer financial assistance to help cover funeral expenses for individuals who have passed away, particularly for low-income residents. These services ensure that families facing financial hardship can give their loved ones a dignified burial. Learn more here. | |
Mountain Manor Treatment Center Opens Youth Inpatient Program | |
988 Around the U.S. Video | |
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This video showcases 988 including what 988 is, who it is for, and people around the country who are involved with the number.
This video has been designed to promote what 988 is, how 988 works, and the importance of having mental health support available for all people in the U.S. 24/7.
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Mid Shore Health Improvement Coalition | |
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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!
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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. |
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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. | |
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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.
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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.
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The Maryland Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) is pleased to announce the launch of their new online provider directory.
The new directory makes it easier for people to find providers in their area based on county, waiver type, service and/or through a keyword search.
The directory can be found on the DDA website.
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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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