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Rural Service Delivery

Education Session C

C19 - Cultivating Hope Through AgAssist: Supporting Mental Health in Kansas

Monday, April 27, 2026
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM MDT
Location: Bluebird 3A
NASW CCB ACCME NY-SW NY-MHC NBCC
Farmers and ranchers experience unique and cumulative stressors that place them at elevated risk for mental health challenges, while cultural norms and access barriers often delay care. This breakout session reviews the rationale behind the development of AgAssist, an agriculture-specific mental health support program designed to meet producers where they are. Participants will examine key data, early warning signs, and systemic influences that informed program design, including the role of cultural competence, trauma-informed care, and community partnerships. The session highlights lessons learned and practical considerations for developing responsive mental health supports within agricultural communities.

Learning Objectives:

  • 1) Explore Mental Health Challenges​ for Ag Population -Focus on unique mental health issues faced by farmers and ranchers in agricultural settings.​ -Review data to identify and understand early warning signs, risk and barriers to treatment.
  • 2) Examine the Developmental Process of AgAssist Program​ -Highlight key milestones for the development of AgAssist to meet the needs of this population. -Apply data and statistics to program implementation techniques.
  • 3) Review Influence of systemic training on the development of AgAssist -Conceptualize cultural competence, trauma informed and person-centered care as important influencers to service delivery. -Evaluate impact of broader systems education on mental health as a positive influence on timely service delivery. -Discuss perceived next steps for programming and supports.
  • 4) Describe mental health resources and support networks tailored for farmers and ranchers.
Disclosure(s):
Bryant Miller, LCMFT RPT-S: No financial relationships to disclose
Marcy Johnson, MA EdS LCPC: No financial relationships to disclose