Evidence Based Strategies on Adolescent Drug Use (Birmingham)

Event Date: 09/25/2025
Registration Closes: 09/23/2025
Event Time: 09:00 AM - 04:30 PM

Event Type: Live In-person
Total CE Credits: 5.5
Clinical Hours: 5.5

General Admission: $0 CE Cost: $55

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Description
Speaker Info
Event Location
Itinerary

Description

This presentation will provide an in-depth exploration of the intersection between brain development, substance use, and the lived experiences of families impacted by these challenges. Participants will gain valuable insights through:

Evidence-based research on brain development and how Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) can influence these critical stages.
Evidence-based research on the cycle of substance use and the profound effects it has on family systems.
Two phenomenological studies offering real-world perspectives:
- A mother’s journey of adopting a child born with drug exposure.
- A foster parent’s experience raising children whose biological parents struggle with substance use.

By combining research with lived experiences, this session will highlight both the scientific and human sides of these complex issues, equipping participants with a deeper understanding to better support children and families.

Speakers & Bios

Jarvis Cleveland

Jarvis is a firm believer in the notion that we have the ability to heal ourselves no matter the trauma we've experienced. What that healing looks like is different from person to person, but it is an achievable goal. With five years of counseling experience working with individuals with a wide range of issues (substance abuse, depression, anxiety, sexual identity issues) it is his pleasure to come alongside clients and help them on their healing journey. A proud member of the LGBTQIA community, Jarvis hopes to provide a safe space for ALL.

Matt McKenzie

Matt McKenzie is the Owner, Clinical Supervisor, and Continuing Education Training Consultant at McKenzie Strategies. He possesses a Doctoral degree in Counseling Education & Supervision and is an active Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in AL and GA. Additionally, Matt is a Member of the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers, Certified MINT Trainer, AL First Responder Clinician/Trainer, and a Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach. Matt has 7 years of counseling experience in and 5 years of presenting workshops on group counseling, motivational interviewing, and compassion fatigue. He also has experience providing health and wellness coaching/training. He enjoys spending time with his family, friends, and competing in Brazilian jiu jitsu.

Meghan McKenzie

I see life experiences as seeds - some big, some small, some uncomfortable, oddly shaped, smooth; the names of these seeds could be joy, pain, flux, transition, grief, or trauma. As we begin to collect seeds they take up space. Learning how to plant those seeds, foster and care for them, can possibly allow them to bloom. Through telling your story, the good and the not so great, it is my hope as a therapist to help provide the tools you need to sow your own garden. As an integrative therapist I rely on a person-centered approach and utilize methods like Motivational Interviewing, Family Systems theory, and Narrative therapy in my sessions. I also pull from my Gottman Level 1 Couples Certification and my Trauma Informed Yoga Certification when working with my clients.

Paige Rubin

Page Rubin has over 15 years of experience working with adults and adolescents. She specializes in substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders. Page utilizes a person-centered and strength-based approach and believes building a trusting relationship with her clients is the foundation of effective therapy.