Dr. Ashleigh Parker, CEO of Crittenton Services in northern West Virginia, joins us to discuss her journey throughout behavioral health, and the exciting new developments that continue to help children and families in need.

On our latest episode of the Association Spotlight Series, we are joined by our former CEO Mark Drennan, who has taken on a new role as State Director of West Virginia for the National Youth Advocate Program, Inc. (NYAP).

Mark talks to us about new position on the provider side of behavioral health and how he plans to improve the foster care crisis we're currently battling here in The Mountain State.

Dustin Contos (Williamson Health & Wellness Center) joined us in studio to tell his incredibly unique journey about transitioning from his career as a West Virginia State Trooper to a licensed behavioral health clinician. He explained to us how his work in law enforcement paved the way to finding his passion in bettering people's lives.

Lakie Delida, an Adult Drug Court Coordinator for the state Supreme Court in Mercer County, has lived on both sides of the judicial system. As a recovering addict who was incarcerated for 22 months and lost custody of her children at one point, she is now thriving personally and professionally with an inspirational career throughout behavioral health.

"I had to get out of my own way to be able to thrive. And here I am. I was sentenced to 87 months in federal prison. I could have either let that destroy me or (I could) rise up. And I chose the latter." Durand Warren, Director of Behavioral Medicine at Williamson Health & Wellness Center, joined us to tell his empowering story of adversity and redemption, and how it's fueled his ascent to success.

Mark Drennan joins us to close out the 2023 West Virginia Legislative Session and explain certain bills that passed and what they mean for the future of behavioral healthcare in The Mountain State.

"I'm sure they're reading these articles and are mad about some of these things that did happen and (about) the people who did make mistakes. And at the same time, they feel like they're painted with that same brush and I don't think that's fair."

Mark Drennan joins us today to discuss the recent reports surrounding the IDD setting in West Virginia. Mark says that while no abuse or neglect is acceptable in any scenario, the majority of the IDD workforce should be commended for the around-the-clock and compassionate care they give to individuals with intellectual & developmental disabilities, especially throughout Covid and during the industry's most dire workforce shortage.

Mark Drennan joins us today to explain the current proposed legislation that will restructure the West Virginia DHHR, splitting it into three separate divisions. House Bill 2006 has passed through both the Senate and the House, and now sits on Governor Jim Justice's desk for approval.

To read the bill in its entirety, click here: https://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/bills_text.cfm?billdoc=hb2006%20sub%20enr.htm&yr=2023&sesstype=RS&i=2006