DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH
For Immediate Release: July 16, 2024
Media Contact:
Alex Frantz, Communications Director
Vermont Department of Mental Health
802-904-3043
Department of Mental Health to offer Eating Disorders Training for Vermont Clinicians
Waterbury, VT — The Vermont Department of Mental Health (DMH) in collaboration with The National Alliance for Eating Disorders (The Alliance) and The Emily Program Foundation (TEPF), are pleased to announce a specialized training initiative aimed at equipping Vermont mental health providers with essential skills in the screening, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of eating disorders across all ages and genders.
Scheduled for September 26 and 27, 2024 at Montpelier's Capitol Plaza, the training will feature a lineup of expert speakers including:
- Jillian Lampert, Vice President of Communications at Accanto Health
- Johanna Kandel, National Alliance for Eating Disorders Founder
- Krista Crotty, Clinical Director at Brain Based Therapy NW and a Clinical Education Specialist at The Emily Program.
Topics covered will include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy - Enhanced (CBT-E), Family Based Treatment (FBT), nutritional basics for mental health providers, and strategies for building supportive community networks. The training sessions will also offer Continuing Education (CE) credits through the American Psychological Association (APA) and the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). The training receives partial sponsorship from the VT Pediatric Mental Health Care Access Program, supported by funding from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA).
"We are incredibly proud to bring this training to Vermont clinicians, ensuring they have a comprehensive understanding of eating disorders, from screening and assessment to diagnosis and evidence-based treatments," said DMH Commissioner Emily Hawes. "Our goal is to empower providers, so they can effectively support individuals and families affected by eating disorders.
A report by Strategic Training Initiative for the Prevention of Eating Disorders, Academy for Eating Disorders, and Deloitte Access Economics estimates that nine percent of Vermonters— approximately 55,132 individuals—will experience an eating disorder during their lifetime. Nationally, eating disorders contribute to 10,200 deaths annually, equivalent to one loss every 52 minutes. Research shows that the earlier intervention and treatment can occur, the better the outcomes in the long term.
"Eating disorders impact Vermonters of all ages, and across diverse genders, races, and sexual orientations," remarked Dr. Haley McGowan, DMH Child, Adolescent, and Family Unit Medical Director. "By bolstering the knowledge and comfort level of Vermont’s mental health providers in caring for these individuals, we not only increase a much-needed workforce but prepare clinicians to navigate complex issues with compassion and expertise."
This training is designed for mental health clinicians (therapists, counselors, psychologists) and psychiatrists. Those interested in participating can apply using this Form. A cohort of approximately 100 clinicians will be selected and contacted by late August.
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About the Department of Mental Health
Vermont Department of Mental Health (DMH) has a critical mission to improve the conditions and well-being of all Vermonters across the state and protect those who cannot protect themselves.
Visit mentalhealth.vermont.gov
National Alliance for Eating Disorders is the leading national nonprofit organization providing referrals, education, and support for individuals experiencing eating disorders and their loved ones. Since October 2000, the Alliance has worked tirelessly to raise awareness; eliminate secrecy and stigma; promote access to care; and support those susceptible to, currently experiencing, and recovering from eating disorders.
Visit allianceforeatingdisorders.com
The Emily Program Foundation founded in 1993, is nationally recognized for their compassionate and personalized approach to eating disorder awareness, treatment, and lifetime recovery. They understand the tangled complexities of eating disorders, often from personal experience. The Emily Program Foundation guides clients of all ages and genders through every step of their care journey, providing them with the multidisciplinary treatment they need to heal.
Visit theemilyprogram.com