The Franciscan Renewal Center (FRC) is holding a special event, the Mental Health Summit: Understanding Today’s Challenges, from July 26 to 28. This summit offers a unique opportunity to hear from experts in the field on critical topics such as addiction, anxiety, suicide, and multicultural mental health.
Set against the backdrop of 25 acres of desert beauty at 5802 E. Lincoln Dr., this event is designed for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of mental health. Mental health care professionals and students can earn six continuing education units (CEUs) by attending.
Director of Therapy, Support, and Counseling Ministry at FRC, Ryan M. Sheade, LCSW, will be joined by a panel of mental health experts. Sheade brings over two decades of experience in the Maricopa County public behavioral health system. He has held various roles, including overseeing residential programs for adults with serious mental illness, acting as clinical coordinator for Regional Behavioral Health Authorities, and serving as clinical director for the Southwest Center for HIV/AIDS. He also co-founded the Arizona Institute for Advanced Psychotherapy Training and currently teaches at Grand Canyon University.
The summit aims to demystify mental health, helping attendees understand what it is and what it isn’t. This understanding is crucial as mental health awareness becomes increasingly important. Participants will benefit from the knowledge shared by licensed professionals and engage in meaningful discussions about current mental health challenges.
FRC has a long history of supporting mental health, offering support groups and therapy sessions to those in need since the 1970s. These services are provided by local licensed therapists who volunteer their time and expertise.
The program is approved by the National Association of Social Workers Arizona, providing six CEUs to Arizona mental health professionals. Registration fees, including meals, are $100 for commuters and $195 for a single room. To register, call 480-948-7460, or visit thecasa.org/programs.
