Virtual Conference
Wednesday, September 24, 2025
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM CST
About the Summit
In a time of shifting policies, emerging challenges, and evolving needs, the 2025 RMTAC Wellness Summit brings together behavioral health professionals from across the nation. Our goal is to build resilience and strengthen community ties, empowering providers who support refugees, migrants, newcomers, and asylum seekers.
At this first-ever virtual summit, you’ll connect with experts, peers, and advocates to explore innovative strategies, trauma-informed care, and culturally responsive approaches. Together, we’ll navigate changing “seasons” in our work – ensuring compassionate, impactful care in every climate.
Meet Our Keynote Speaker
John “Jake” Edward Epperly, CSADC
With over 37 years of experience as an addiction treatment leader and international recovery advocate, Mr. Jake Epperly has established impactful recovery initiatives across the globe. Founder of New Hope Recovery Center in Chicago and Recovery Beyond Borders in Nepal, Jake is renowned for his trauma-informed, mission-driven approach to behavioral health.
A U.S. Army and Navy veteran now based in Mexico, Mr. Epperly actively promotes psychedelic-assisted therapy and collaborates with indigenous healers to support veterans and individuals facing PTSD, depression, and anxiety. As a certified addiction counselor and clinical supervisor, he frequently speaks on ethical, culturally informed practices. At our summit, Mr. Epperly will share powerful insights drawn from his international experiences, including founding Dristi Nepal, a nonprofit supporting women with substance use disorders.
Summit Agenda
Below is the agenda for the conference. Each session will include the designated speaker along with the corresponding track: G for General, SP for Suicide Prevention, and R for Recovery.
Breakout Sessions Speakers
Session 1
Reducing The Impact of Psychological Harm for Dual Diagnosis in Refugee and Migrant PopulationsR
Trauma-Responsive Leadership: Supporting Clinicians Serving Migrant and Refugee CommunitiesG
No One Heals Alone: Building Systems of Strength for Mental Health Care R
Staying Balanced: Strengthening Yourself Through Self-Care Practices G
The Complex Reality of Mental Health Stigma, Its Impact on Immigrants, and Effective Ways to Treat Different Immigrant Populations G
Practical Skills for Suicide Prevention with Vulnerable Communities SP
Food Insecurity and Its Relation to Pediatric Psychosocial Function, Behavior, and Mental Health among Latino Immigrant Youth G
Session 2
Suicide Prevention in Schools and Youth Programs SP
Behavioral Health with an Emphasis on Newcomer, Refugee and/or Migrant Care - Working with Newcomers Through the Lens of a Karen CommunityG
Offering a Hand: Psychological First Aid for Mental Health and Suicide Intervention SP
Invisible Wounds: Unpacking the Behavioral Health Needs of Migrant Youth G
Collective Healing Among Refugees in Resettlement: The Power of Healing within the Group Context R
Working Together to Support Newcomers G
Building Resilience, Preventing Suicide: Solution-Focused Strategies for Displaced Communities SP
Working Together to Support Newcomers G
The Silent Connection: How Environment Sensitivity Affects Mental Health G
Panel Discussion
Suicide Prevention in Newcomer Communities & Trauma-Informed & Community-Centered Clinical Practice with Migrant, Refugee, and Immigrant Communities