The NMBHPA thanks you for attending
5th Annual Conference on Behavioral Health
The event provided a fantastic opportunity for everyone to interact and learn from each other. Whether you were an executive, direct practitioner, or support staff, the spirit of partnership and innovation was evident.
The message was clear: our work is challenging, but together, we can achieve remarkable things.
Because we are stronger together
The Resonance of Shared Voices
- State Initiatives and Future Vision: Alex Castillo-Smith from the NM Healthcare Authority shared exciting insights into the future of behavioral health care in New Mexico. Our state is leading the way in integrating CCBHC and enhancing mental health services.
- Creating Healthy Workplaces: Michael DeBernardi from The Life Link in Santa Fe inspired us with his talk on developing healthy workplaces. He highlighted the significance of meaningful work, supportive environments, and trauma-informed care. As leaders, it's crucial to model empathy, kindness, and compassion.
- Holistic Behavioral Health Approach: We explored the importance of viewing behavioral health as a comprehensive system, covering prevention, crisis intervention, treatment, and recovery. Enhancing data collection and integrating evidence-based practices are essential for improving our programs.
- And Senator Gerald Ortiz y Pino encouraged us to advocate and speak up, reminding us that our voices are crucial in shaping policy and services As the recipient of the Nancy Jo Archer Lifetime Achievement Award, Sen Ortiz y Pino embodied the qualities and actions for which he advocated.
conference presentation and Photo downloads
Save the Date for next year’s conference
May 15-16, 2025
Thank you to all of the exhibitors,
sponsors, and keynote speakers!
We hope to see you again next year!
What Our Members Say
“Joining the NMBHPA has been exceptionally helpful for our organization. Their collaborative approach and deep understanding of the BH landscape have made them wonderful partners in navigating the complexities of Medicaid/Insurance policies and regulatory frameworks. They play a significant role in fostering communication and effective problem solving between state agencies, MCOs and providers. What sets them apart is their ability to ask difficult questions with thoughtfulness and respect, creating space for honest dialog and meaningful feedback. This has led to better understanding of the nuances of Medicaid coverage, state priorities, and operational constraints that providers face. They actively support sustainability of care delivery through focusing on reducing administrative burden and facilitating timely reimbursement.” – Laura Dunagan, Director of Revenue Cycle at All Faith's Children's Advocacy Center
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At A New Hope Therapy Center, we chose to become a member of NMBHPA because we value being part of a community that champions quality mental health care across New Mexico. The networking, support, and shared resources have been truly helpful for our team. Most of all, we appreciate the opportunities to collaborate with other organizations that are just as passionate about making a difference.
Being part of NMBHPA has inspired us and made us feel connected to others who share our vision for a healthier, more supported community. We’re proud to be members!" – Maria Laquerre Diego, LMFT at A New Hope Therapy Center
"I am the owner of a group psychotherapy practice. Although many of the agencies in the association are larger and provide a broader range of services than ours, I continue to find the information available to me as a member invaluable. In particular, the monthly meetings the association has set up with NM Medicaid and each Medicaid MCO provide a wealth of information and professional connections with the most influential personnel for each of those entities. These meetings put the concerns of behavioral health providers directly in front of those individuals and hold them accountable to the needs of our agencies and the people we support. I highly recommend becoming an association member." — Jim Shotwell, Executive Director/Owner at The Enhancement Center