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Keynote Speaker heading with photo of Carrie Wilkens, PhD

Tree of Addiction

Workshop Descriptions

Addiction & Recovery 2026: Where we've been, Where we’re going

Join us for an insightful exploration of how addiction treatment and recovery have transformed over the past several decades. From the emergence of 12-step recovery programs in the 1950s to today's evidence-based practices, this keynote examines the changing understanding of addiction, advances in treatment approaches, and the realities facing both clients and professionals in the field.

Participants will be able to: (1) -Describe the evolution of the conceptualizations and paradigms of addiction on both a societal and treatment/clinical-level. (2) Give three examples of how systemic oppression has impacted and influenced individuals and communities afflicted with higher vulnerabilities to substance use disorders and process addictions. (3) Accurately compare and contrast models of recovery and their effectiveness by critically evaluating research and statistical trends.

Kat Glick, M.Ed., LPC, CCS, ACS, SAP, MAC is a therapist, educator, and clinical supervisor with more than 18 years of experience specializing in addiction treatment, sexuality education, and relationship therapy. They hold master's degrees in Sexuality Education from Widener University and Forensic Mental Health Counseling from John Jay College. A Licensed Professional Counselor in multiple states, Kat holds numerous advanced credentials, including Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS), Master Addiction Counselor (MAC), and AASECT Certified Sexuality Educator (CSE). They also serve as an adjunct instructor at Rowan University, Rutgers University, and other institutions, teaching and developing courses in psychology, counseling, and clinical practice.

Workshops

Photo of Nancy Graham

The GLP- Dilemma - Weight Loss Medications & Eating Disorder Risks

Nancy Graham, LCSW

Professional Relations Representative, The Renfrew Center of Northern New Jersey

Widely marketed as a weight-loss solution, GLP-1 receptor agonists have sparked important concerns within the eating disorder treatment community. While these medications can support blood sugar regulation and weight management, they may also increase the risk of disordered eating behaviors, complicate recovery, and exacerbate existing eating disorders. This presentation examines the potential risks and clinical implications of GLP-1 use, offering guidance for providers on supporting clients in making informed, recovery-oriented health decisions.
 

Participants will learn: (1) The main contributing factors to the development of an eating disorder (2) How GLP-1's work and what are the indicators for use for individuals with an eating disorder - risks vs benefits, contraindications (3) The importance of developing a safety plan and exit strategy and (4) What the current research shows

 

Petros Levounis

Beyond Kratom: Kratom and Related Substance Use Disorders

Petros Levounis, MD, MA

Professor and Chair of Psychiatry, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School

With the rapid growth of kratom and high-potency kratom-derived products, clinicians are increasingly encountering new assessment and treatment challenges. This session explores the evolving kratom market, including 7-OH and other emerging substances, and provides practical guidance for recognizing use patterns, evaluating risk, and supporting patients effectively.
 

Participants will be able to: (1) Describe the dose-dependent pharmacology of kratom (2) Apply DSM-5-TR criteria and targeted interviewing techniques to diagnose kratom use and (3) Identify high-potency or semi-synthetic kratom variants.

 

Sarah Cerruto

Pain Across the Lifespan: Integrative Care and Opioid Safety

Sarah Cerruto BSN, MEDSURG-BC; HN-BC

Nurse Clinician, Hackensack University Medical Center

 

Effective pain management requires a personalized approach that considers each patient's unique needs, goals, and stage of life. This session explores strategies for developing individualized pain treatment plans while addressing the risks of opioid misuse across different age groups. Participants will learn how holistic and integrative approaches can be incorporated into comprehensive care plans to improve outcomes, enhance quality of life, and support safe, effective pain management.
 

Participants will be able to: (1) identify how to assess, treat, and manage pain across the lifespan that is appropriate to their profession and (2) to identify holistic and integrative medicine techniques that can be applied to the plan of care.

Professional Development (teachers):  This program will provide 6 professional development hours for teachers/school staff. Provider Registration Number 1409.

CHES: CHES credits are sponsored by the Bergen County Department of Health Services. Credits will be awarded after participants provide their individual CHES numbers and complete the program evaluation.

Social Work: The Center usually applies for continuing education from NJ NASW.

Cert Board: The Center usually applies for continuing education from the Certification Board for Licensing and Certification Renewal LCADC, CADC, MFT, MFT- Permit, LPC, LAC LRC, and re-certification for all certifications issued by the Certification Board of New Jersey .

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