Discover how faith communities can play a transformative role in promoting mental health and addressing substance use disorders. This session will introduce the Center for Faith within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and its mission to build partnerships between faith leaders and behavioral health providers. Monty Burks, Director of the Center, will share powerful insights on how faith can foster hope and healing for individuals facing behavioral health challenges. Ben O’Dell, Senior Advisor, will highlight real-life stories of lives changed, along with research, practical tools, and proven strategies to integrate faith and mental health efforts—strengthening resilience and well-being in local communities. Join us to explore innovative approaches that unite science, service, and spirituality to make a lasting impact.
Learning Objectives:
Explain the role of faith communities in promoting mental health and addressing substance use disorders through partnerships with behavioral health systems.
Identify strategies and practical tools for integrating faith-based approaches with mental health initiatives to strengthen community well-being.
Apply insights from real-world examples and research to develop collaborative solutions that leverage faith as a resource for resilience and recovery.
Disclosure(s):
Ben O'Dell, MNPS: No financial relationships to disclose
