Presenters:

Coco Kuebler, B.A., CRSP (they/she) and Jyoni Tetsuro Shuler, M.Sc. (she/they)

The initial interactive elements of the workshop will invite participants to ask themselves when they were first aware of their gender experience and how that may have changed over time, sometimes in concert and in conflict with their gender expression. The workshop presenters will engage intersections with dimensions of difference such as race, ability, class, and more while discussing how T+ gender experiences can shape recovery. The presenters will then cover gender-affirming support and service methods at levels micro (e.g. staff-to-participant support), meso (e.g. organizational policy such as intake form format), and macro (e.g. state policy on Medicaid coverage for gender-affirming care) with time for questions, incorporating both well-established and burgeoning scientific research on the subject. These methods will be discussed from the vantage point of T+ participants; T+ staff; the organizations that work to support them; and the political and policy context of these gender experiences. Discussions of recovery from substances and alcohol will be grounded in person-centered, harm reduction principles.

Presenters:

Ken Musgrove, CPRS (he/him) and David Martinak, CPRS (he/him)

This workshop explores the mutually beneficial aspects and successful implementation of a recovery-friendly workplace initiative within the context of a recovery-friendly community. A Recovery Friendly Workplace (RFW) strengthens both the employer and employee by making the connection between recovery, well-being, and performance. This workshop will draw of knowledge of similar initiatives in neighboring states and the experience gained from the Recovery Friendly Workplace pilot program in Somerset County.

Presenters:

Frank Garris CPRS, CJC (he/him) and Tim Ryan MSW, CPRS (he/him)

When we hurt others, we often experience emotions such as guilt, shame, remorse, or regret. These emotions can lead to the avoidance of the individuals that are associated with what we’ve done. When we do that, we disengage from our core values. For those of us in recovery, self-forgiveness is especially important so that we can connect back to those values by accepting responsibility for what occurred. This involves making amends or restitution, then striving to live according to those values in the future. Attendees of this workshop will develop an understanding of the important components and factors of self-forgiveness, and how self-forgiveness is a vital component of self-care.

Presenter:

Heather Ogden, CPRS, CRSP, CADCI, BA (she/her)

This workshop is a new and improved update from last year’s NJ-CARS Conference premiere of “The Integration of Harm Reduction and Recovery.” As peers we promise to meet people where they are, and to help them find their own best life in their chosen recovery path. This session examines how we can help others paint their own recovery masterpiece, while continuing to create our own. An interactive art activity helps to emphasize the unique nature of every person seeking wellness and recovery.

Presenter:

Dr. Moniquea Clark, E-RYT 200, YACEP, CPRS, B.A, M.Div., Certified Holistic Transformation Life Coach (she/her/hers)

In this engaging and informative workshop, participants will explore the powerful intersection of mindfulness and harm reduction. You’ll discover practical strategies and techniques to make mindful choices that promote well- being and minimize harm in various aspects of life. Through interactive exercises and discussions, you’ll learn how mindfulness can be applied to substance use, stress management, decision-making, and more. By the end of the workshop, you will have gained valuable insights and tools to incorporate mindfulness into your daily life for harm reduction and improved overall well- being. 

When: Session I – 8:30am, Session II – 12:00pm

Where: Room 213 (2nd Floor)

Join Kim for some mindful movement, breathwork and a guided meditation that will help create a sense of ease in the body and mind. Being intentional is powerful and this will guide you into a clear and fully present mindset for the presentations and workshops.

No experience is necessary, the most important things to bring are a sense of curiosity and compassion for whatever you experience. The movements will be gentle and done standing and sitting. It is advised that you refrain from eating a meal prior and that you drink water after the session.

Facilitated by Kim Bradle (she/her):

Kim is the Program & Senior Volunteer Coordinator for the NJ Chapter of The Phoenix. Kim has also been facilitating Yoga, Mindfulness and Meditation to individuals and groups for over 20 years.

Dress your best and join us in the morning and lunch hour to get your professional headshot taken!

When:

Breakfast Hour (8am-9am)

Lunch Hour (12pm-1pm)

Where:

Room 123 (First Floor)

What To Bring:

Your Conference Badge & Smile 🙂