I illuminate the needs and trauma issues of justice-involved individuals
so their supporters can help them be successful.
SPEAKING BRAND
Having worked for more than 25 years with youth, patients in mental health crisis, substance use disorders, and those who are incarcerated, I’ve seen the damage that broken families, violence, abuse, loss, and all kinds of other trauma can do. As clinicians, family, and anyone who wishes to help those who have gotten involved in our criminal justice systems, we can be forces for healing and success if we use the compassion, skills and knowledge that is available to us today. The word trauma gets used a lot these days, but few know how broadly it affects those who have mental health and criminal justice issues, let alone how they can best be assisted to begin living successful, productive lives. My calling is to get the message out about the experiences and suffering of our fellow humans that have been arrested and locked in our jails and prisons, and about how they can best be cared for as they return to our communities.
David has a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology, and has worked in multiple fields of behavioral health treatment for nearly 25 years, including outpatient counseling, crisis stabilization, inpatient, substance abuse, and youth residential programs. He began working as a Psychologist with the Michigan Department of Corrections Mental Health Program in 2002, and currently is the Mental Health Director for the MDOC, overseeing the mental health, substance use disorder, and sex offender treatment services in prisons as well as those in the community for parolees and probationers. Well-versed regarding the issues and needs of those with mental health issues, substance use disorders, and justice involvement, David is working to improve the transition process for those involved in the criminal justice system. He is a certified instructor for SAMHSA’s Trauma Informed curriculum for criminal justice, and is on a mission to reduce stigma, and to make helpers, family members and survivors aware of their needs and to improve treatment services.
ABOUT
SPEAKING TOPICS
The Real ReEntry Problem
Most people who end up in our criminal courts, jails and prisons have experienced significant trauma in their lives. I assist helpers to understand the nature of trauma, the needs of those who have been traumatized, and what they can do to help that actually works. Change IS possible and we CAN stop the cycles of pain and violence that impact our communities so deeply.
TESTIMONIALS
David has presented numerous times to the Michigan behavioral health provider association that I have attended and I have co-presented with David in recent years. In my time working with David, both with HMA over the past nearly six years and prior, I have found him to be professional, knowledgeable, responsible, articulate and passionate regarding serving justice involved populations
Rich Vandenheuvel
Principal, Health Management Associates
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