Las Vegas or Metro Center?

For those who have the means, PAB members Phyllis Hoppes and Paul Fuchcar are attending the US Journal Training Adolescent Conference in Las Vegas, 24-26 April 2008. This conflicts with the April PAB meeting slated for 23 April 2008 at the Bureau of TennCare.

Certified Peer Support Specialists

The Office of Consumer Affairs in TDMHDD has revised its Certified Peer Support Specialists handbook and forms. You may view them at this link.

Why Drug Cravings Persist

New research finds cravings for methamphetamine persist in mice even after a long period of recovery from scientist-induced drug addiction. Addiction disrupts a key neurochemical balance, and only after re-introducing the drug could the mice restore equilibrium in the chemicals. The authors believe this generalizes to other stimulants such as cocaine.

One implication to consider: Is it possible then that a key component of treatment in the future would be to have planned relapses as a means to recondition a client's neurochemical pathways?

CADCAT Advocacy Training

CADCAT announces training for advocates:

Please see attached brochure and register quickly. We are recruiting existing and new advocates so feel free to pass this on to anyone you think might be interested.

Please contact Cynthia George at CADCAT at (615) 227-5250 or cgeorge@cadcat.org if you have any questions. Thanks!

31st SUMMIT

Tennessee's 31st Annual Tennessee Advanced School on Addictions, THE SUMMIT, is coming up May 26-30.

Dear Participant:

Welcome to THE SUMMIT, the 31st Annual Tennessee Advanced School on Addictions. This year’s theme, "The Evidence Is In," truly reflects the conference’s curriculum which compares evidenced-based protocols with solid client outcomes. The SUMMIT will feature presentations detailing the latest evidenced based treatment protocols, as well as highlighting strategies designed for our Tennessee Access to Recovery II providers.

We have assembled an outstanding faculty from across the United States, who will share their expertise through formal presentations and interactive workshops throughout the week. Some of the school faculty includes: David Mee-Lee, MD, Mark Sanders, Peter Hayden, Ph.D., Bob Carty, and C.C. Nuckols, Ph.D.

On Wednesday evening, Maya Hennessey, known for her abilities as a motivational speaker will bring to our attendees and the recovery community a presentation on Women in Recovery: The Challenges and Reward. You will also have the opportunity to hear from Ernie Kurtz, Clifton Mitchell, and Mark Schwartz who will be our featured morning plenary speakers. On Friday morning, John McAndrew will bring his songs of inspiration to our closing breakfast general assembly.

This Summit has something of interest for all professionals in the field. Hopefully, through our continued efforts of "in the evidence...of our outcomes," we can make a difference in alleviating the debilitating effects of alcohol and drug abuse.

We look forward to seeing you at the school.

Sincerely,

Bruce D. Emery, M.S.W.
Assistant Commissioner

Jay Jana
State Training Coordinator