TTASC

Current Issues of Mental, Emotional, Behavioral Health
2025-03-25 10:00 - 11:30 (America/New_York) | https://preventiontrainingcenter.org/event/current-issues-of-mental-emotional-behavioral-health/
Please register below to attend this virtual event! Once we’ve received your RSVP, you will receive an email confirmation with the Zoom Link.
Trainer: Dr. Georgia Powell, Founder & CEO of Powell Mental Health.
Dr. Powell holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA), a Master of Health Administration (MHA) with a focus on gerontology, and a Doctor of Health Administration (DHA). She is a Certified Mental Health Instructor by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing and an active member of NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness).
Training Description: Mental, emotional, and behavioral health challenges continue to evolve, impacting individuals, families, and communities in profound ways. This training will provide participants with an in-depth understanding of emerging mental health trends, warning signs, and effective community-based strategies to promote well-being and early intervention.
Learning Objectives: Through interactive discussions, real-world case studies, and evidence-based approaches, participants will be able to:
– Identify early warning signs and symptoms of common mental, emotional, and behavioral health challenges.
– Analyze emerging trends in mental health, including the impact of social, economic, and technological influences.
– Explore strategies for community intervention and collaboration to support individuals facing mental health challenges.
– Increase awareness of available resources and how to connect individuals to professional support.
– Strengthen mental health advocacy efforts within their organizations and communities.
This training is eligible for 1 CEUs upon completion.
Questions? Contact Jennifer Jacobsen, jacobsen@xsector.com
The Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (CT DMHAS) with funding from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) supported this TTASC activity.

CT Cannabis Landscape Analysis: Examining the Illegal THC Retail Market in CT
2025-04-02 10:00 - 23:30 | https://preventiontrainingcenter.org/event/ct-cannabis-landscape-analysis/
Please register below to attend this virtual event! Once we’ve received your RSVP, you will receive an email confirmation with the Zoom Link.
Workshop Description: This workshop will explore the findings of the Cannabis Landscape Analysis, a comprehensive study examining the illegal sale of cannabis products containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) across Connecticut. By analyzing a random sample of 359 retailers, including gas stations, liquor stores, convenience stores, and tobacco/smoke shops, the study reveals the sale of THC products outside of licensed dispensaries, violating state regulations.
Learning Objectives:
– Understand the methodology behind the analysis, the types of products identified, and the broader implications for cannabis policy enforcement in the state.
– Examine current cannabis laws.
– Be provided with templates and model for local replication of the study, offering coalitions the opportunity to assess the extent of illegal cannabis product sales in their own areas.
Trainers: Denique Weidema-Lewis, Behavioral Health Program Manager, CT DMHAS Prevention & Health Promotion Division and Daniela Montes-Hawley, Lead Special Investigator, CT DMHAS
This training is eligible for 1.5 CEUs upon completion.
Questions? Contact Lisa Mason, mason@xsector.com
The Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (CT DMHAS) with funding from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) supported this TTASC activity.

Innovation in Social Media Marketing: Tools and Tactics for Effective Substance Use Prevention Campaigns
2025-04-30 10:00 - 11:00 | https://preventiontrainingcenter.org/event/innovation-in-social-media-marketing/
Please register below to attend this virtual event! Once we’ve received your RSVP, you will receive an email confirmation with the Zoom Link.
Social media is a powerful tool for prevention professionals and coalitions to engage communities, share resources, and promote substance use prevention and mental health initiatives. This training will provide a beginner-friendly guide to best practices on Facebook and Instagram, with insights on TikTok, X, and LinkedIn. Participants will learn how to develop a content strategy, create engaging posts, analyze their impact, and navigate challenges like limited resources and platform changes.
Learning Objectives:
– Develop a content strategy aligned with your prevention goals
– Create engaging and effective posts that maximize audience reach and interaction
– Understand best practices for posting frequency, content types, and platform-specific engagement
– Navigate challenges such as limited time, public perception, and changing social media trends
– Analyze performance metrics to measure success and refine content strategies
This training is eligible for 1 CEU upon completion.
Questions? Contact Emily Thompson at emily@tsmarketinginc.com
The Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (CT DMHAS) with funding from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) supported this TTASC activity.

June 26th - Certified Prevention Specialist & Associate Prevention Certification Application & Exam Overview
2025-06-26 10:00 - 11:30 | https://preventiontrainingcenter.org/event/may-cps-ap-certification-application-exam-overview/
Important: This training will be offered on two dates (6/26 & 7/15). Please register for only one of the two events.
*The information presented will be the same on both dates*
Please register below to attend this virtual event! Once we’ve received your RSVP, you will receive an email confirmation with the Zoom Link.
The Certified Prevention Specialist certification is the gold standard for those in the prevention field. The application process is the first step towards earning your certificate, followed by completing the certification exam. This workshop provides an overview of the certification application and an introduction to the certification exam.
Learning Objectives:
– Learn why prevention certification matters
– Explore the six core prevention domains
– Review key CT Certification Board application requirements
– Understand the IC&RC exam registration process
– Get tips and materials for exam prep
– Learn about the certification pathways available
Who Should Attend:
– Prevention professionals pursuing certification
– State and federally funded coalition coordinators
– Supervisors and program directors
– Behavioral health specialists
– Aspiring prevention workers
– Community health educators
Certification Pathways – Choose What Fits You:
– Certified Prevention Specialist (Traditional Route) – For applicants meeting the full documentation and training requirements.
– Fast Track CPS Certification – For professionals with 10+ years of prevention experience. Reduced documentation required.
– Associate Prevention Certification – A 2-year, non-renewable option for those with 50 hours of prevention experience and 50 hours of training.
This training is eligible for 1.5 CEU upon completion.
Questions? Contact Lisa Mason at mason@xsector.com
The Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (CT DMHAS) with funding from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) supported this TTASC activity.

Lunch and Learn: An Orientation to DMHAS Resource Link Connecticut Clearinghouse
2025-07-09 12:00 - 13:00 | https://preventiontrainingcenter.org/event/orientation-to-dmhas-ct-clearinghouse/
Please register below to attend this virtual event! Once we’ve received your RSVP, you will receive an email confirmation with the Zoom Link.
Trainers:
Agnes Skowron, MA, Librarian, Connecticut Clearinghouse
Heather Clinger, MPH, CPS, Program Manager, Wheeler’s Connecticut Center for Prevention, Wellness, and Recovery

Description:
This training offers participants a comprehensive overview of the services and resources provided by Connecticut Clearinghouse. Attendees will learn how to navigate and access a range of prevention and behavioral health materials. The session will also highlight the diverse training opportunities available through Connecticut Clearinghouse, equipping participants with valuable knowledge to enhance their professional development and community outreach efforts.

Learning Objectives: By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
1. Identify and access key Connecticut Clearinghouse services
2. Explore a wide range of available resources and demonstrate how to locate and use them effectively
3. Navigate resource access tools
4. Learn about professional development and self-care opportunities
This training is eligible for 1 CEU upon completion.
Questions? Contact Jennifer Jacobsen at jacobsen@xsector.com
The Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (CT DMHAS) with funding from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) supported this TTASC activity.

July 15th - Certified Prevention Specialist & Associate Prevention Certification Application & Exam Overview
2025-07-15 10:00 - 11:30 | https://preventiontrainingcenter.org/event/july-cps-ap-certification-application-exam-overview/

An Orientation to DMHAS Prevention Resource Link: State Education Resource Center (SERC)
2025-07-22 12:00 - 13:00 | https://preventiontrainingcenter.org/event/an-orientation-to-dmhas-prevention-resource-link-state-education-resource-center-serc/
Please register below to attend this virtual event! Once we’ve received your RSVP, you will receive an email confirmation with the Zoom Link.
FEATURED PRESENTERS:
Malik Champlain, EdD (c) – Educational Consultant, Racial Equity &Family Engagement at State Education Resource Center (SERC)
Bianca Irizarry, LMSW – Educational Consultant, Prevention & Student Support Services at State Education Resource Center (SERC)

Description:
This virtual session provides an in-depth orientation to the State Education Resource Center (SERC), a leading partner in Connecticut’s prevention infrastructure. Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of SERC’s mission, services, and statewide initiatives that promote educational equity, culturally responsive practices, family and community engagement, and inclusive learning environments. This session will equip attendees with practical knowledge on how to access SERC’s resources and technical assistance to support their prevention goals and professional practice.

Learning Objectives: By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

Identify and access core services and supports provided by SERC
Explore SERC’s equity-centered resources for educators, families, and communities
Understand opportunities for technical assistance and professional learning
Learn how SERC supports prevention efforts through statewide collaboration and capacity building

This training is eligible for 1 CEU upon completion.
Questions? Contact Jennifer Jacobsen at jacobsen@xsector.com
The Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (CT DMHAS) with funding from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) supported this TTASC activity.

Lunch and Learn An Orientation to DMHAS Resource Link Problem Gambling Services (PGS)
2025-09-16 12:00 - 13:00 | https://preventiontrainingcenter.org/event/lunch-and-learn-an-orientation-to-dmhas-resource-link-problem-gambling-services-pgs/
Please register below to attend this virtual event! Once we’ve received your RSVP, you will receive an email confirmation with the Zoom Link.
Presenters:
Jeremy Wampler, LCSW, ICGC II, BACC, CGT, LADC, Behavioral Health Clinical Supervisor, DMHAS PGS
Kelly Leppard, MPA, CPS, GCC, Primary Prevention Services Coordinator, DMHAS PGS
Haley Brown, CPS, GCC, Primary Prevention Services Coordinator, DMHAS PGS
Workshop Description:
This workshop will provide a comprehensive overview of the Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) Problem Gambling Services (PGS), highlighting its programs, initiatives, and funding sources. This session will offer insight into how DMHAS addresses problem gambling across the state through a coordinated system of care, prevention strategies, and collaborative partnerships. Participants will learn about the full spectrum of services available, ranging from statewide prevention campaigns to treatment and recovery support, as well as how these services are funded and sustained.
Key Topics Include:
– Overview of the mission and structure of DMHAS Problem Gambling Services
– Funding sources, including legislative appropriations and lottery contributions
– Prevention, intervention, treatment, and recovery programs across Connecticut
– Data collection, research, and program evaluation efforts
– How organizations can engage with or apply for funding opportunities
Learning Objectives:
1. Understand the range of services offered through DMHAS Problem Gambling Services.
2. Identify the primary funding sources that support problem gambling programs in Connecticut.
3. Recognize opportunities for collaboration and service integration.
4. Learn how to connect individuals to appropriate services and supports.
This session is ideal for organizations currently working in behavioral health, prevention, or recovery, as well as those exploring new opportunities to support individuals affected by gambling-related harm.
This training is eligible for 1 CEU upon completion.
Questions? Contact Jennifer Jacobsen at jacobsen@xsector.com
The Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (CT DMHAS) with funding from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) supported this TTASC activity.

Innovation in Social Media Marketing: From Strategy to Action (Part 2)
2025-09-18 10:00 - 11:00 | https://preventiontrainingcenter.org/event/innovation-in-social-media-marketing-part-2/
Please register below to attend this virtual event! Once we’ve received your RSVP, you will receive an email confirmation with the Zoom Link.
Building on the success of our first Innovation in Social Media Marketing training, this follow-up session takes a deeper dive into putting strategies into action. In this training, we’ll move beyond the “what” and “why” of effective social media use and focus on the “how.” Participants will gain hands-on insight into practical tools, real-world applications, and step-by-step approaches to elevate their prevention-focused messaging. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your skills, streamline your workflow, or expand your impact, this session will equip you with actionable techniques to maximize your presence on social media platforms.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this training, participants will be able to:

Apply advanced social media strategies discussed in Part 1 to real-world prevention campaigns.
Demonstrate how to use key tools, platforms, and features to create, schedule, and manage engaging content.
Implement audience engagement techniques that foster community and increase reach.
Utilize analytics and insights to measure post performance and refine strategies.
Integrate time-saving AI and planning tools into daily social media management.

This training is eligible for 1 CEU upon completion.
Questions? Contact Emily Thompson at emily@tsmarketinginc.com
The Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (CT DMHAS) with funding from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) supported this TTASC activity.

Engaging Retailers in Your Prevention Work
2025-09-25 10:00 - 12:00 | https://preventiontrainingcenter.org/event/engaging-retailers-in-your-prevention-work/
Please register below to attend this virtual event! Once we’ve received your RSVP, you will receive an email confirmation with the Zoom Link.
Guest Presenters:
Ingrid Gillespie: Director of Prevention. Liberations Programs Inc., Stamford Prevention Council
Daniella Arias: Program Coordinator. Liberations Programs, Inc., Stamford Prevention Council
Carolyn Wilson: Senior Health Program Coordinator. Ledge Light Health District, Groton Alliance for Substance Use Prevention (GASP)
Trainer: Jennifer Jacobsen, CT Training and Technical Assistance Center
This 2 hour virtual training will cover why retailers are an important partner in prevention, strategies to engage and build relationships with retailers, introduce enforcement strategies, how to involve youth, and provide resources and tools. In addition, participants will hear from three spotlight speakers who will share initiatives they have implemented in their respective communities in working with retailers, zoning regulations, education and training, and using data informed practices.
Learning Objectives:
• Identify Strategies to Engage Retailers in Prevention
• Review the Purpose and Use of Conducting Environmental Scans and Compliance Checks
• Learn the Importance of Retailer Training and Collaboration
• Review Activities Youth Can Be Involved In
• Hear Local Success Stories from CT Coalition Coordinators
• Access Local Retailer Licenses Look Up
This training is eligible for 2 CEUs upon completion.
Questions? Contact Jennifer Jacobsen at jacobsen@xsector.com
The Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (CT DMHAS) with funding from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) supported this TTASC activity.

An Orientation to CT DMHAS Prevention Resource Link: The Governor’s Prevention Partnership (GPP)
2025-10-09 12:00 - 13:00 | https://preventiontrainingcenter.org/event/orientation-to-gpp/
Please register below to attend this virtual event! Once we’ve received your RSVP, you will receive an email confirmation with the Zoom Link.
Description:
This virtual session provides an in-depth orientation to The Governor’s Prevention Partnership. As a partner in Connecticut’s prevention infrastructure, GPP provides an array of services and resources across the state. Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of GPP’s mission, services, and statewide initiatives that promote youth engagement, strong mentoring relationships, family and community engagement, and education prevention. This session will equip attendees with practical knowledge on how to access resources and technical assistance to support their mentoring and prevention goals and professional practice.
Key Topics:
– Overview of the missions and structure of The Governor’s Prevention Partnership
– Mentoring training and technical assistance opportunities
– Parent and youth substance use prevention programs across the state
– Legislative and Media engagement
Learning Objectives:
– Describe how GPP is part of the prevention infrastructure through statewide initiatives and capacity building
– Understand the range of services offered by GPP
– Identify how to access programing, training, and resources
Featured Trainers:
Kelly Juleson: Co-President & Chief External Affairs Officer
Roland Harmon: Co-President & Chief Program and Administrative Officer
This training is eligible for 1 CEU upon completion.
Questions? Contact Jennifer Jacobsen at jacobsen@xsector.com
The Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (CT DMHAS) with funding from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) supported this TTASC activity.

Part 1: An Overview of Problem Gambling in Connecticut
2025-12-01 12:00 - 14:00 | https://preventiontrainingcenter.org/event/part-1-an-overview-of-problem-gambling-in-connecticut-2025/
Please register below to attend this virtual training event! Once we’ve received your RSVP you will receive an email confirmation with the Zoom Link.
Part one will include the overview of gambling, features in games that resemble gambling, defining problem gambling, Connecticut prevalence, gambling prevention resources and information on the Regional Gambling Awareness Teams.
Presented by:
Kaitlin Brown, Director of Programs and Services, CT Council on Problem Gambling
Kelly Leppard, Primary Prevention Services Coordinator, DMHAS Problem Gambling Services
Learning Objectives:
– Explain the types of gambling and features in games that resemble gambling
– Identify risk and protective factors including warning signs for problem gambling
– Understand the progression of gambling related issues and prevalence in Connecticut
– Obtain gambling prevention resources and information on the Regional Gambling Awareness Teams
Questions, contact Jennifer Jacobsen, jacobsen@xsector.com

Part 2: Gambling as a Co-occurring Disorder and Current Data
2026-01-12 12:00 - 14:00 | https://preventiontrainingcenter.org/event/part-2-gambling-as-a-co-occurring-disorder-and-current-data-2025/
Please register below to attend this virtual training event! Once we’ve received your RSVP you will receive an email confirmation with the Zoom Link.
Part two will focus on gambling as a co-occurring disorder with both substance use and mental health disorders and current national, state, regional and local gambling data that is available.
Presented by:
Kaitlin Brown, Director of Programs and Services, CT Council on Problem Gambling
Kelly Leppard, Primary Prevention Services Coordinator, DMHAS Problem Gambling Services
Learning Objectives:
– Describe the co-occurring nature between mental health and gambling
– Compare the similarities & differences between gambling and substance misuse behaviors and brain biology
– Identify and review emerging trends and current national, state, regional and local data that is available
Questions, contact Jennifer Jacobsen, jacobsen@xsector.com

Prevention Storytelling for Impact
2026-01-29 10:00 - 12:00 | https://preventiontrainingcenter.org/event/prevention-storytelling-for-impact/
Please register below to attend this virtual event! Once we’ve received your RSVP, you will receive an email confirmation with the Zoom Link.
Description:
Prevention Storytelling for Impact is an interactive web-based training designed to help prevention professionals translate their coalition’s and organization’s work into clear, compelling stories that demonstrate measurable impact. Participants will learn how to use their mission, vision, goals, and outcomes to identify meaningful wins, both large-scale outcomes and everyday moments, and frame them in ways that resonate with funders, partners, and the community. Through a guided exercise and practical tools, attendees will leave with an understanding of effective story structure, and a repeatable, step-by-step process to create a success story and communicate prevention impact across multiple platforms.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of this training, participants will:
1. Connect coalition and organization activities and outcomes to their mission and goals to surface meaningful stories of prevention impact.
2. Identify their organization’s unique impact strategy—its “Midas touch”—that shapes how prevention work creates change.
3. Differentiate between big and small impact stories and determine how each can be used to communicate progress to diverse audiences.
4. Translate one prevention success into tailored stories across multiple communication formats, including social media, newsletters, public announcements, and video.
Note: All participants will need to bring their organization's vision/mission statement, goals and one successful activity/outcome.
Presenters:
Anna Gasinski, BS, CPS
Prevention Specialist
Sharece Sellem-Hannah, MS
Creative Community Health Educator & Advocate
TEDx Speaker, “What is Human Services Missing?”
This training is eligible for 2 CEU upon completion.
Questions? Contact Jennifer Jacobsen at jacobsen@xsector.com
The Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (CT DMHAS) with funding from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) supported this TTASC activity.

Part 3: How to Make Gambling Prevention a Priority
2026-02-02 12:00 - 14:00 | https://preventiontrainingcenter.org/event/part-3-how-to-make-gambling-prevention-a-priority-2025/
Please register below to attend this virtual training event! Once we’ve received your RSVP, you will receive an email confirmation with the Zoom Link.
Part three will provide information on gambling prevention strategies, responsible gambling efforts, ethical decisions and how to integrate gambling into brief screenings and interventions.
Presented by:
Kaitlin Brown, Director of Programs and Services, CT Council on Problem Gambling
Kelly Leppard, Primary Prevention Services Coordinator, DMHAS Problem Gambling Services
Learning Objectives:
– Identify gambling specific prevention strategies
– Analyze and discuss gambling related ethical situations to determine best practices for prevention professionals
– Describe a model for gambling integration within mental health, substance use and recovery based organizations that can be used in prevention and treatment
Questions, contact Jennifer Jacobsen, jacobsen@xsector.com

2026 National Prevention Week Workshop
2026-02-24 12:00 - 13:30 | https://preventiontrainingcenter.org/event/2026-npw-workshop/
Please register below to attend this virtual event! Once we’ve received your RSVP, you will receive an email confirmation with the Zoom Link.
Description: TTASC will be hosting a virtual workshop session to prepare for SAMSHA’s National Prevention week taking place May 10-16, 2026.
Learning Objectives:
– Identify the goals of National Prevention Week, May 10-16, 2026
– Explore 2026 CT NPW initiatives and past local activities that coalitions can adopt
– Identify current or past local prevention initiatives that can be promoted or celebrated during NPW
– Explore new opportunities and engage community sectors into local NPW prevention programming
Presenters:
Lisa Mason, TTASC
This training is eligible for 1.5 CEU upon completion.
Questions? Contact Lisa Mason at mason@xsector.com
The Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (CT DMHAS) with funding from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) supported this TTASC activity.
