Rural-Informed Behavioral Health Interventions Training

This interactive and thought-provoking workshop, Rural-Informed Behavioral Health Interventions, is designed to deepen participants’ understanding of rural communities and enhance their ability to provide culturally responsive behavioral health care in rural contexts. Led by Dr. Darcie Davis-Gage, PhD, LMHC, Director of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota Center for Rural Behavioral Health at Minnesota State University, Mankato, and joined by Associate Directors Dr. Tracie Rutherford Self, PhD, LPCC and Dr. Paul Mackie, PhD, LISW, the session draws on years of applied research, clinical practice, and rural engagement. Participants will explore the unique strengths and cultural assets embedded in rural life, including community resilience, informal support networks, and deep-rooted values such as self-reliance, privacy, and connection to place. Emphasis will be placed on listening to local voices, identifying community-defined priorities, and partnering with rural leaders to co-create effective and sustainable behavioral health solutions. Ideal for behavioral health professionals, educators, administrators, healthcare workers, and community health advocates, this session will leave participants better equipped to engage rural communities with insight, respect, and a strengths-based mindset.

 

Paul Force-Emery Mackie, PhD, LISW

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