Expanding Access

Navigating SSI and SSDI benefits is often overwhelming, time-consuming, and difficult to manage, especially for individuals already dealing with health, financial, and life challenges. In this episode, Lauren Fusco, Director of Partnerships at Mindset Care, shares how Mindset Care is addressing these barriers with end-to-end, person-centered support that guides individuals through every step of the process. By combining technology with human expertise, Mindset helps streamline applications, improve approval outcomes, and reduce the burden on individuals and care teams alike. Through partnerships with providers, payers, and community organizations, they’re turning disability benefits into a critical gateway for broader care, stability, and improved quality of life. Tune in to hear how a more human, connected, and tech-enabled approach is helping people access the benefits they deserve! Resources: Connect with and follow Lauren Fusco on LinkedIn. Follow Mindset on LinkedIn and explore their website.

Unified enterprise systems are no longer back-office upgrades in behavioral health. They are essential infrastructure for access, workforce stability, and financial resilience. In this episode,  Tasneem Sanwarwalla, Director, Healthcare Presales at Workday, explains why behavioral health organizations need a unified platform that connects HR, finance, and operations in real time. She highlights how fragmented systems contribute to burnout, limit visibility, and force leaders to rely on outdated data for critical decisions. Tasneem shares how modern platforms enable better workforce planning, scenario modeling, and early detection of staff strain while aligning staffing, care delivery, and financial performance. She also discusses how AI can reduce administrative burden by automating repetitive tasks and allowing clinicians and leaders to focus more on people than paperwork. Tune in and learn how unified systems and thoughtfully applied AI can help behavioral health organizations scale access, support staff, and make better decisions. Resources: Connect with and follow Tasneem Sanwarwalla on LinkedIn. Learn more about Workday on LinkedIn and explore their website here.

Getting mental health care is not only about having enough clinicians. It is also about having systems that help people get in the door, get treated, and stay on track without delays. In this episode, Dominik Middelmann, co-founder and CEO of mdhub, discusses how everyday operational issues can slow access to behavioral health care. He explains how missed calls, excessive paperwork, disconnected systems, and billing issues can get in the way of helping people, even when clinics have open appointments. Dominik shares how mdhub was built to bring many of these tasks together into one system, using AI to support scheduling, documentation, and payment workflows. He also explains why trust matters when using AI in mental health care, especially regarding privacy, security, and reliability, and offers practical advice for organizations trying new AI tools. Tune in to learn how better systems and carefully designed AI can make mental health care easier to access and deliver. Resources: Connect with and follow Dominik Middelmann on LinkedIn. Follow mdhub on LinkedIn and explore their website here.

Compliance works better when documentation supports care in real time instead of becoming a burden after the fact. In this episode, Paige Dustmann and Derek Staub discuss how fraud, waste, and abuse pressures are reshaping behavioral health compliance for providers, payers, and managed care organizations. Paige explains how Monolith Health helps teams capture services, assessments, and treatment planning in real time, reducing paperwork and improving audit readiness. Derek highlights how changing regulations, random audits, and documentation gaps can put even well-intentioned providers at risk, emphasizing the need for stronger systems and clearer communication with MCOs. Together, they explore how better workflows, state-aligned lesson plans, and proactive compliance tools can protect organizations while ensuring clients receive care that meets their real needs. Tune in and learn how better documentation, stronger compliance systems, and clearer payer-provider communication can reduce risk and improve behavioral health care delivery! Resources: Learn more about Monolith Health on their LinkedIn and visit their website here.

Recovery outcomes improve when support is continuous, trust-based, and built around human connection rather than episodic treatment alone. In this episode, Chris Thompson, founder and CEO of Sober Sidekick, shares how his personal experience with addiction inspired him to build a platform focused on reducing isolation and providing real-time support. He explains why relapse, overdose, and crises often occur outside traditional care settings, where support is limited. The platform addresses this gap through peer support, behavioral signals, and care navigation to engage people when it matters most. Chris also critiques traditional treatment incentives and emphasizes the need for a more empathetic, proactive, and trust-based approach to long-term recovery. Tune in and learn how always-on, empathy-driven support can help people sustain recovery and rethink how addiction care is delivered! Resources: Connect with and follow Chris Thomson on LinkedIn. Learn more about Sober Sidekick by Empathy Health Tech on their LinkedIn and explore their website.

What if the biggest barrier to better behavioral health outcomes isn’t access to data, but how carefully we protect it? In this episode, Helen Oscislawski, a healthcare data privacy and interoperability attorney, explains that behavioral health and substance use data require stricter privacy protections due to their sensitivity and history of misuse, and are governed by laws such as 42 CFR Part 2. She highlights how modern interoperability and AI create new opportunities to share data more precisely, but also introduce greater legal and ethical risks. Updated regulations now allow more flexible data sharing to improve care coordination, while introducing stronger enforcement and penalties for non-compliance. She emphasizes that success depends on “privacy by design,” strong governance, and a deep understanding of consent frameworks to preserve patient trust. Tune in to learn how smarter consent, stronger privacy frameworks, and better governance can unlock safer, more effective data sharing in behavioral health! Resources: Connect with and follow Helen Oscislawski on LinkedIn. Follow Attorneys Oscislawski LLC on LinkedIn and visit their website. Check out the Legal HIE website.

Behavioral addictions like gambling are real behavioral health conditions, not character flaws, and they can hide in plain sight. In this episode, Davina Mena, Tribal Liaison for the Arizona Division of Problem Gambling, explains how behavioral addictions work and why gambling is often misunderstood, including how it can rewire the brain’s reward system much like substance use disorders. She describes how gambling addiction can surface at work through distraction, missed time, stress, and financial pressure, even when individuals appear high-functioning. Davina offers practical guidance for families and individuals, emphasizing empathy, healthy boundaries, honest self-checks, and awareness of local resources. She also urges providers to integrate brief screening questions into routine care and discusses the unique realities for tribal communities, where casinos support economic sovereignty while still posing risks that deserve proactive attention. Tune in to better understand behavioral addictions, reduce stigma, and learn concrete ways families, providers, and communities can respond. Resources: Connect with and follow Davina Mena on LinkedIn. Follow the Arizona Department of Gaming on LinkedIn.  Learn more about the Arizona Department of Gaming’s Problem Gambling Division on their website. Take the Problem Gambling Self-screening Quiz here. If someone you know is struggling with a gambling addiction, call 1-800-NEXT-STEP or the national helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER for confidential support.

Stability and early mental health care are the biggest levers for improving outcomes for kids impacted by foster care. In this episode, Michelle Turner, founder and CEO of Here Now Health, shares how her experience as a foster parent revealed critical gaps in mental healthcare access for children and young adults in the child welfare system. She explains how placement instability, case manager turnover, and reliance on crisis care undermine long-term stability and permanency. Michelle explores why foster youth drive significantly higher Medicaid spending due to emergency interventions rather than preventive care, and how virtual, trauma-informed therapy that follows the child can improve outcomes. She closes with insights on caregiver support and how Medicaid and policy can be better leveraged as preventive tools designed specifically for foster youth. Tune in and learn how targeted, trauma-informed virtual care can prevent crisis, stabilize families, and transform outcomes for foster youth! Resources: Connect with and follow Michelle Turner on LinkedIn. Learn more about Here Now Health on their LinkedIn and explore their website.

Patient-centered design is not a nice-to-have in healthcare. It is the key to access, trust, and better outcomes. In this episode, Dr. Justin Coffey, Chief Medical officer at WorkIt Health, discusses how designing treatment around lived experience can transform substance use care. He explains the philosophy of patients as designers, why immediate access matters in moments of readiness, and how whole-person care better reflects the realities of recovery. The conversation highlights how digital care can reduce stigma, improve engagement, and reach underserved populations, including rural patients and pregnant individuals. Dr. Coffey shares practical examples of how technology, team-based care, and thoughtful design remove barriers while maintaining human connection and explores the future role of AI in supporting care delivery and patient empowerment. Tune in and learn how patient-designed digital care can create more accessible, humane, and effective treatment. Resources: Connect with and follow Dr. Justin Coffey on LinkedIn. Follow Workit Health on LinkedIn and explore their website.

Virtual reality can remove the biggest barriers to evidence-based mental health treatment by making exposure therapy affordable, scalable, and accessible anywhere. In this episode, Adam Hutchinson, founder of oVRcome, discusses how lived experience with social anxiety and a background in technology led him to build a VR platform that expands access to exposure therapy worldwide. He explains why traditional exposure therapy is difficult, costly, and impractical for many conditions, and how VR “tricks the brain” to safely replicate real-world triggers without physical constraints. Adam explores the clinical value of immersive, filmed VR environments, the emerging role of generative AI in personalizing treatment, and the importance of maintaining realism for effective outcomes. He also shares insights from scaling a global startup from New Zealand, highlights use cases across self-help, clinicians, schools, payers, and health systems, and emphasizes the role of caregivers in successful treatment journeys. Tune in and discover how immersive technology is revolutionizing anxiety care, lowering costs, and increasing access to proven mental health treatments worldwide! Resources: Connect with and follow Adam Hutchinson on LinkedIn. Follow oVRcome on LinkedIn and explore their website.

Peer support is becoming a core part of behavioral health, not just an add-on. In this episode, Shrenik Jain, founder and CEO of Marigold Health, and Robert McAlonan, Director of Behavioral Health at VNS Health, discuss how expanding the role of peer support can bridge the engagement gap in behavioral health. They share how their partnership is transforming access to care through a blend of technology and human connection, making services more accessible, private, and personalized. The conversation highlights how digital peer support offers a low-friction approach for individuals to seek help, thereby reducing hospitalizations and improving long-term recovery outcomes. Shrenik and Rob also explore the operational and systemic challenges of scaling peer support, from credentialing and integration to building value-based partnerships that reward outcomes. Tune in and learn how technology-driven peer support can reshape behavioral health access, engagement, and recovery outcomes! Resources: Connect with and follow Robert McAlonan on LinkedIn. Follow VNS Health on LinkedIn and visit their website Connect with and follow Shrenik Jain on LinkedIn. Follow Marigold Health on LinkedIn and visit their website.

High-quality behavioral healthcare scales only when outcomes, engagement, and coordination are designed into the system from day one. In this episode, Colleen Marshall, Chief Clinical Officer at Two Chairs, discusses how integrating therapy and psychiatry under one roof improves outcomes, reduces drop-off, and removes friction for patients. She explains measurement-based care (MBC), why real-time feedback in sessions drives better results, and how clinician training unlocks adoption. Colleen explores patient engagement, including why rapid access and strong matching matter and how coordinated care prevents conflicting treatment plans. She also breaks down value-based care in behavioral health, sharing how outcomes and retention can anchor shared-risk partnerships with payers. Finally, Colleen looks ahead to the future of behavioral health, including the responsible use of AI to support clinicians while maintaining ethical and effective care. Tune in and learn how outcomes, engagement, and coordination can redefine success in behavioral healthcare! Resources: Connect with and follow Colleen Marshall on LinkedIn. Follow Two Chairs on LinkedIn and visit their website.

Objective data is becoming essential to building trust, reducing bias, and personalizing ADHD care at scale. In this episode, Danielle Vaeth, Head of Strategic Development and Enterprise Sales at Qbtech, discusses how technology is reshaping the assessment and management of ADHD through objective measurement and data-driven insights. She explains why rating scales remain important but incomplete due to bias, stigma, and variability, and how adding objective measures can strengthen clinical confidence, patient trust, and treatment optimization. Danielle examines the gradual yet significant development of behavioral health technology, the impact of access and equity, and the increasing importance of software-driven tools in both urban and rural care settings. She also shares how machine learning and personalized data are shaping the future of ADHD treatment, why measuring outcomes is critical for value-based care, and how aligning incentives across clinicians, patients, and payers can drive better results. Tune in and learn how objective data, technology, and incentives can transform ADHD care over the next five years! Resources: Connect with and follow Danielle Vaeth on LinkedIn. Follow Qbtech on LinkedIn and explore their website.

The Clubhouse model is proving that community and purpose can transform lives for people with serious mental illness. In this episode, Josh Seidman, Chief External Impact Officer for Fountain House, explores how the organization pioneered the Clubhouse model, a psychosocial rehabilitation approach built on community, partnership, and purpose rather than clinical hierarchies. Since its start in 1948, the model has expanded to 380 Clubhouses in 33 countries, helping members rebuild their lives through work, education, and connection. Data show that Clubhouse members experience higher employment, better housing, and reduced loneliness, while the model lowers Medicaid costs by 21%, saving society over $11,000 per person each year. Seidman also highlights participatory research projects like Measures That Matter and the Fountain House United Research Network (FHURN), which empower members to shape meaningful metrics and improve quality outcomes. Tune in and learn how community-driven innovation and lived experience are reshaping the future of behavioral health care! Resources: Connect with and follow Josh Seidman on LinkedIn. Follow Fountain House on LinkedIn and explore their website.  If you want to find a clubhouse, visit the Clubhouse International website.

Self-injury is not about seeking attention. It’s often a desperate attempt to survive. In this episode, Amanda Beausoleil, founder of Self Injury Recovery and Awareness (SIRA), shares her personal journey with non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) and her mission to build a global support network for those affected. She clarifies how NSSI differs from suicide attempts, describing it as a coping mechanism for emotional regulation rather than suicidal intent. Motivated by a lack of professional understanding, Amanda created SIRA to provide online peer support, education, and community resources for people of all ages and backgrounds. She also introduces SIRA’s upcoming six-week program focused on resilience, adaptability, and emotional awareness, supported by technology to expand global access for clinicians and individuals.Tune in and learn how lived experience, empathy, and innovation are transforming the conversation around self-injury and mental health recovery! Resources: Connect with and follow Amanda Beausoleil on LinkedIn. Follow SIRA on LinkedIn and explore their website.  Browse Self-Injury Education Resources (free) here. If you have a lived experience, attend a meeting with the SIRA team here. If you are a psychology student or a therapist, you can make a donation here.

Lasting change is built from clear-eyed ownership, timely support, and the courage to start again. In this episode, Josh Golomb and Ruben Vega, share how two cousins from the same close-knit Mexican-American family followed very different paths before finding purpose through healing and service. Josh reflects on the role of privilege, expectations, and early access to support, while Ruben recounts the pain of addiction, prison, and his eventual transformation through faith, mentorship, and 12-step work. Together, they demonstrate how early intervention, peer support, and second chances can transform lives and how schools can serve as trusted hubs, connecting families to essential care. Tune in and learn how timely support can redirect a life! Resources: Connect with and follow Josh Golomb on LinkedIn. Follow Hazel Health on LinkedIn and explore their website.

Addressing the psychological side of workplace injuries can reduce recovery time by up to 70%, transforming outcomes for both workers and employers. In this episode, Joe Holtschlag, CEO of Ascellus Behavioral Health, and Liam Donohue, Founder and Managing Partner at .406 Ventures, explore how mental healthcare is transforming the workers’ compensation system and why this evolving market brings both challenges and opportunities. Joe traces the system’s evolution from its 1911 origins to today’s inclusion of mental health injuries, noting that 31 states now allow standalone psychological claims. He explains how Ascellus coordinates clinicians, claims adjusters, and employers to build an infrastructure that prioritizes care while ensuring timely return-to-work outcomes, achieving 88% returns within 8–12 therapy sessions. Liam adds an investor’s view, comparing this outcome-based model to AbleTo and emphasizing the double ROI of behavioral health, improving both human and financial results through technology, evidence-based therapy, and strategic partnerships. Tune in and learn how innovation and empathy are redefining recovery in the workplace! Resources: Connect with and follow Liam Donohue on LinkedIn. Learn more about .406 Ventures on LinkedIn and visit their website. Follow and connect with Joe Holtschlag on LinkedIn. Learn more about Ascellus Behavioral Health on LinkedIn and explore their website.

Live, facilitated groups that confront loneliness head-on are a powerful and scalable lever for real behavior change. In this episode, co-founders of Keep Company, Adrienne Prentice (CEO) and Claudia Naim-Burt (COO), share how synchronous, human-to-human groups outperform message boards and self-guided programs by dissolving shame, fostering accountability, and improving outcomes like retention and sustainable performance. They describe these groups as a “third space” between casual support and one-to-one therapy, supported by step-up and step-down pathways and referrals when clinical care is needed. To balance intimacy with scale, they highlight their patented gathering technology, 60-factor whole-person matching, and a closed-loop platform that manages registration, introductions, facilitation, and insights. Drawing on evidence across areas such as caregiving, chronic illness, and weight management, they emphasize that while AI can enhance logistics and quality, genuine human connection, and even healthy friction, it remains essential for resilience and long-term well-being. Tune in and learn how to design connection-first, scalable group care that retains its human core! Resources: Connect with and follow Adrienne Prentice on LinkedIn. Follow and connect with Claudia Naim-Burt on LinkedIn. Learn more about Keep Company on LinkedIn and visit their website

The next decade of mental health innovation won’t be defined by who builds the best product, but by who anticipates the policy pathways that bring it to scale. In this episode, Kacie Kelly, Chief Innovation Officer at Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute, explores how behavioral health startups can bridge the gap between early traction and national scalability by viewing policy as a strategic growth tool rather than merely a compliance requirement. She reflects on a recent Washington, DC, event that united over 60 tech and policy leaders to tackle barriers to scaling tech-enabled, measurement-informed care. The discussion spanned topics such as AI in mental health, workforce trust in technology, and the importance of constructive dialogue between innovators and policymakers. Kacie highlights that policy determines who pays for what, when, and how, urging founders to build reimbursement strategies early and leverage programs like HeadsUp to navigate policy landscapes and accelerate growth through federal initiatives. Tune in and learn how policy foresight can become your most powerful innovation advantage! Resources: Connect with and follow Kacie Kelly on LinkedIn. Follow the Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute on LinkedIn and visit their website. Listen to Kacie Kelly and Talisha Searcy’s previous interview on our podcast here. Learn more about the HeadsUp service here.

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD.Save $100 on your registration ⁠here ⁠by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100” In a world where life feels more complex than ever, simplicity might just be the key to better care. In this episode, Dr. Matthew Chow, Chief Mental Health Officer, and Paula Allen, Global Leader and VP of Research, Insights, and Strategic Communications at TELUS Health, discuss how organizations can make employee well-being simpler, more personal, and more effective. They explore the global shift from crisis response to prevention and how empowered, compassionate leadership directly drives both mental health and business performance. Together, they emphasize the importance of culturally responsive, locally delivered care and measurable impact, reminding us that beyond ROI, well-being initiatives ultimately save lives. Tune in to learn how simplifying care can strengthen connection, resilience, and results! Resources: Connect with and follow Dr. Matthew Chow on LinkedIn. Connect with and follow Paula Allen on LinkedIn. Follow TELUS Health on LinkedIn and explore their website.

AI in behavioral health demands a balanced strategy that protects consumers, enables innovation, and expands access at scale.  In this episode, Dr. Zach Boyd, Director of Utah’s Office of Artificial Intelligence Policy, shares how his team is creating practical guardrails for responsible AI in healthcare. He traces his path from theoretical math to social science, noting that behavioral health is the front line for AI’s impact. Early milestones include broad stakeholder surveys, privacy and advertising protections, detailed guidance for professionals, and a safe harbor to reduce regulatory uncertainty. Dr. Boyd highlights opportunities in clinical automation and consumer tools, while warning about risks like deepfakes and urging leaders to balance safety, efficacy, and access. Tune in and learn how thoughtful policy can accelerate safer, more equitable behavioral health innovation! Resources: Connect with and follow Dr. Zach Boyd on LinkedIn. Learn more about Utah’s Office of Artificial Intelligence Policy here. Email Utah’s Office of Artificial Intelligence Policy directly here.

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD.Save $100 on your registration ⁠here ⁠by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100” The future of mental health care lies in integrating self-care, personalization, and technology to meet people where they are. In this episode, Clayton Nicholas, Chief Commercial Officer at CredibleMind, discusses the urgent need to reimagine the intersection of mental and physical healthcare by focusing on prevention, accessibility, and personalization. He explains that the traditional, reactive, and clinician-limited model has left millions underserved and introduces the stepped care approach, where digital self-care tools form a foundational “step zero.” Clayton describes how digital front doors can simplify access, reduce stigma, and guide people toward the right level of support, helping to shorten waitlists and ease pressure on the system. He concludes by highlighting how data-driven insights and AI can personalize care, strengthen empathy and engagement, and enable earlier, more effective interventions at scale. Tune in and learn how digital innovation is reshaping behavioral health by bridging access gaps and empowering self-care from the ground up! Resources: Connect with and follow Clayton Nicholas on LinkedIn. Follow CredibleMind on LinkedIn and explore their website.

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD.Save $100 on your registration ⁠here ⁠by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100” Normalizing mental health support is essential to expanding access for veterans and their families. In this episode sponsored by Luminary Labs, John Boerstler, Head of Public Sector at Ipsos Public Affairs, discusses the unique challenges veterans face in accessing behavioral health support and the critical need to reduce the stigma surrounding care-seeking. Drawing on his own military service and career across government, nonprofit, and private sectors, he emphasizes how cultural competency, community engagement, and innovative program design can strengthen pathways to care. He highlights initiatives such as National Buddy Check Week, proactive crisis-detection systems, and partnerships that connect veterans to vital services, including housing, employment, and legal aid. He also notes survey data showing that many veterans wait until crisis points to seek help. Finally, John reflects on how technology, combined with human-centered strategies and continuous veteran input, can help identify early warning signs, empower providers, and ensure that no veteran is left behind. Tune in and learn how innovation, empathy, and collaboration can transform veteran behavioral health care! Resources: Connect with and follow John Boerstler on LinkedIn. Follow Ipsos in the US on LinkedIn and explore their website. Learn more about the Office of Healthcare Innovation and Learning on their website.

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD.Save $100 on your registration ⁠here ⁠by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100” The warm handoff model in behavioral health has proven to dramatically increase patient retention and improve access to care in rural communities. In this episode, Dr. Zachary McGeorge, Director of Behavioral Health at AdventHealth in Manchester, Kentucky, shares his journey into social work and the unique challenges rural hospitals face. He highlights transportation barriers and innovative strategies such as telehealth outpost clinics, mobile units that deliver care to patients’ homes, and a warm handoff approach that has driven an 88% therapy retention rate. Dr. McGeorge addresses the difficulty of recruiting and retaining providers in rural areas, stressing persistence, authenticity, and a deep emotional connection to the mission. He also talks about the value of integrated care, provider well-being, and balanced living, along with practical advice for emerging leaders on managing change and engaging stakeholders throughout reforms. Tune in and learn how rural healthcare leaders are innovating to close gaps in behavioral health access and build stronger, more resilient communities! Resources: Connect with and follow Dr. Zachary McGeorge on LinkedIn. Follow AdventHealth on LinkedIn and explore their website.

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD.Save $100 on your registration ⁠here ⁠by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100” Behavioral health was left out of the digital revolution in healthcare; now a $20 million federal initiative is changing that story. In this episode, Talisha Searcy, Senior Advisor within the Assistant Secretary for Technology Policy, and Kacie Kelly, Chief Innovation Officer at the Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute, discuss the Behavioral Health Information Technology Initiative. Talisha explained that BHIT is a $20 million partnership between ASTP and SAMHSA focused on standardizing behavioral health data, advancing EHR adoption, and improving integration with physical health. Kacie highlighted that behavioral health was left out of the HITECH Act, creating long-standing gaps in infrastructure, funding, and data standards that BHIT now aims to address. Talisha emphasized the importance of interoperability and the USCDI+ for behavioral health, with pilots testing real-world data exchange and toolkits to help providers adopt these standards. Both emphasized the importance of collaboration across federal agencies to ensure alignment, as well as opportunities for innovators and the private sector to engage in shaping policies, particularly in areas such as interoperability and AI. Locally, Talisha noted how technology like telehealth is already improving access and care coordination in communities, despite workforce shortages. Tune in to hear from national leaders on how BHIT is setting new standards, driving innovation, and opening doors for providers and innovators in the behavioral health field! Resources: Connect with and follow Talisha Searcy on LinkedIn. Follow the Assistant Secretary for Technology Policy on LinkedIn and visit their website.  Connect with and follow Kacie Kelly on LinkedIn. Follow the Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute on LinkedIn and visit their website. Learn more about the HeadsUp service here.

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD.Save $100 on your registration ⁠here ⁠by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100” The strongest organizations aren’t just scaling services; they’re scaling leadership. In this episode, Stacy DiStefano, CEO and founder of Consulting For Human Services, discusses the unique challenges and opportunities facing nonprofit behavioral health organizations. She explains how her team supports providers with strategic planning, growth strategies, technology adoption, and mergers & acquisitions (M&A) to ensure sustainability, while highlighting why boutique consultancies often deliver more value than large firms through lived experience and community ties. Stacy also explores the real issues keeping leaders up at night, from immigration policies impacting workforce stability to uncertainty in federal priorities and the accelerating wave of nonprofit consolidations, while outlining common pitfalls in M&A such as ego, resistance, and board misalignment. Looking ahead, she stresses the need for CEOs to educate boards, prepare the next generation of leaders, integrate technology across organizations, and embrace disruption as an opportunity rather than a threat. Tune in and learn how nonprofit leaders can future-proof their organizations through resilience, growth, and mission-driven strategy! Resources: Connect with and follow Stacy DiStefano on LinkedIn. Follow Consulting For Human Services on LinkedIn and explore their website.

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD.Save $100 on your registration ⁠here ⁠by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100” The pain of youth must always be seen alongside its power. In this episode, Rich Havard, Director of the Decolonizing Wealth Project’s Youth Mental Health Fund, shares his journey from a closeted gay kid in rural Mississippi to leading a $20 million initiative supporting BIPOC and LGBTQ youth. He reflects on formative church experiences, both healing and harmful, that shaped his commitment to creating inclusive spaces, as well as his years as a pastor witnessing the struggles and resilience of young people. Rich underscores the urgent need for philanthropy to fund culturally responsive care and elevate youth voices as true decision-makers shaping solutions. Ultimately, he reframes youth mental health as an issue of both justice and connection. Tune in and learn how integrating culture, storytelling, and justice can transform youth mental healthcare! Resources: Connect with and follow Rich Havard on LinkedIn. Follow the Decolonizing Wealth Project on their LinkedIn and Instagram, and explore their website. Learn more about the Youth Mental Health Fund here. Contact the Decolonizing Wealth Project team here. Read Decolonizing Wealth Project CEO and Founder, Edgar Villanueva's book, Decolonizing Wealth, here. Discover more about Dr. Alfiee’s The AAKOMA Project here.

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD.Save $100 on your registration ⁠here ⁠by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100” Having the right tools in place the first time can make all the difference for patients and families navigating behavioral health. In this episode, Janelle Bierdeman, a nationally certified school psychologist and the Manager of the Healthcare Solutions Group at MHS (Multi-Health Systems), shares her journey from direct care with children and families to driving systems-level transformation in behavioral health. She reflects on the risks of poor assessments, outdated systems, and the importance of rigorous tools to ensure providers deliver the right care from the start. Drawing on her perspective as both a professional and a parent of neurodivergent children, Janelle emphasizes the need for tailored assessments, clinician involvement in digital tools, and cross-cultural insights from North America and Europe. She also highlights a UK success story scaling patient assessments from 25 to 2,500 per month, and sees AI as a powerful way to reduce administrative burdens and free providers to spend more time with patients. Tune in and learn how technology, when done right, can truly expand access to quality behavioral health care! Resources: Connect with and follow Janelle Bierdeman on LinkedIn. Follow MHS on LinkedIn and explore their website.

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD.Save $100 on your registration ⁠here ⁠by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100” Far too many women veterans are overlooked, leading to gaps in care, resources, and recognition. In this episode brought to you by Luminary Labs, Wanda Wright, Director of the Office for Veteran and Military Academic Engagement at Arizona State University, shares her mission to advocate for women veterans and improve access to resources. She explains that many women do not recognize themselves as veterans, which, combined with cultural bias and lack of awareness, leads to higher rates of suicide and homelessness compared to men. Director Wright highlights the importance of asking “Have you served?” in healthcare settings and stresses that collaboration among the VA, state agencies, nonprofits, and local groups is essential to provide effective support, especially in rural areas. While progress has been made with more women joining the military and rising to leadership, she emphasizes that continued advocacy and community involvement are crucial to breaking down barriers and saving lives. Tune in as Wanda Wright shares her powerful journey and insights on breaking barriers, advocating for women veterans, and building stronger systems of support! Resources: Connect with and follow Wanda Wright on LinkedIn. Follow the Arizona State University on LinkedIn and visit their Office for Veteran and Military Academic Engagement website. Check out Wanda Wright’s paper, The Social Determinants of Suicide among Female Service Members and Veterans: Running Title: Social Determinants of Suicide, here.

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD.Save $100 on your registration ⁠here ⁠by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100” Strong science isn’t just a checkbox; it’s a growth strategy that can set digital health startups apart in crowded markets. In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Huberty, CEO & founder of Fit Minded, explores how behavioral health companies at any stage can build scientific credibility without depleting their resources. She stresses that many startups fail to recognize the value of the data they already possess: data that can drive business decisions, fuel marketing narratives, and even lead to peer-reviewed publications. Jennifer walks through cost-effective research strategies, such as retrospective analyses and national surveys, while cautioning against fragmented, one-off studies that lack strategic alignment. She also introduces the idea of “traveling science,” a framework for making research actionable across departments, and emphasizes that trust, transparency, and clear alignment with business goals are essential for impactful, lasting research partnerships. Tune in and learn how to leverage research not just for credibility, but for growth, clarity, and competitive advantage in the behavioral health tech landscape! Resources: Connect with and follow Dr. Jennifer Huberty on LinkedIn. Follow Fit Minded on LinkedIn and explore their website.

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD.Save $100 on your registration ⁠here ⁠by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100” The caregiving crisis in America is not just personal; it’s systemic, invisible, and urgently needs redesign. In this episode, Paurvi Bhatt, public health expert and founder of ThirdEyeFocus, explores the complex intersections between caregiving, healthcare systems, cultural identity, and systemic equity. Reflecting on her experience as a first-generation Indian-American and longtime caregiver, she reveals how immigrant backgrounds shape both personal and professional choices, and how informal caregiving functions as an invisible backbone of healthcare. Paurvi critiques the gap between healthcare innovation and its practical use at home, highlighting the emotional isolation caregivers face and the lack of support and reimbursement for their work. She calls for moving beyond vague notions of “impact” by demanding measurable results and urges leaders to resist technology-driven detachment in favor of genuine human connection. Tune in and learn how we must reimagine care, connection, and accountability, starting not from systems, but from the human stories we’re ignoring! Resources: Connect with and follow Paurvi Bhatt on LinkedIn. Follow ThirdEyeFocus on LinkedIn.

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD.Save $100 on your registration ⁠here ⁠by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100” A key takeaway from this interview is that the most effective path to value-based care starts with building trust, proving outcomes, and aligning your pitch with what payers already prioritize. In this episode, David Ricupero,  Director of Business Development at Affect Therapeutics and Creator of the Out-of-Pocket Course: How to Contract with Payors, explains the full journey of payer contracting, from initial applications to advanced value-based agreements. He covers how to join payer networks, manage closed systems, and prepare key documents and timelines. David explores various value-based care models, illustrating how risk and complexity grow from pay-for-performance to full capitation, and highlights the importance of combining traditional applications with strategic conversations. He also offers practical tips for avoiding “payer purgatory,” identifying payer goals, and asking the right questions during shared savings negotiations. Tune in and learn how to navigate the nuances of payer-provider relationships and set up sustainable, rewarding contracts that truly expand access to care! Resources: Connect with and follow David Ricupero on LinkedIn. Follow Affect Therapeutics on LinkedIn and explore their website.  Register for the “How to Contract with Payors” course here.

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD.Save $100 on your registration ⁠here ⁠by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100” Addiction recovery is not a solitary journey, and support from peers can make all the difference. In this episode, Matthew Serel, CEO of You Are Accountable, Inc., shares his journey from addiction to long-term recovery and how it inspired him to build a platform offering peer support, toxicology monitoring, and care coordination. He highlights critical gaps in the recovery process, such as fragmented care and poor communication among providers. Matthew emphasizes the power of peer support rooted in lived experience, which helps individuals overcome shame and stay engaged in their recovery. He also discusses the need for collaboration across providers, payers, and peers, and how technology can enhance, not replace, human connection in addiction recovery. Tune in and learn how peer support and a balanced use of technology can reshape the future of addiction care! Resources: Connect with and follow Matthew Serel on LinkedIn. Email Matthew Serel here.  Follow You Are Accountable, Inc. on LinkedIn and explore their website.

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD.Save $100 on your registration ⁠here ⁠by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100” Investing in care infrastructure and mental health access is not just compassionate, it's foundational to long-term systemic change. In this episode, Brittney Riley Gavini, the Director of Investments at Pivotal Ventures, discusses how targeted investment strategies are unlocking real progress in youth mental health, family care, and women’s empowerment. She explains how her career evolved from startups to mission-driven venture capital, and how her team supports both philanthropic and for-profit initiatives that close care gaps. Brittney highlights investments in innovative companies and shares the importance of funding diverse founders and fund managers to reshape the innovation pipeline, especially in mental health and financial access. She also acknowledges challenges in youth mental health startups like provider shortages and complex engagement pathways. Lastly, Brittney offers advice for startups pitching investors: make it a meaningful, generative conversation, not just a transaction. Tune in and learn how mission-aligned investing is reshaping behavioral health, one bold bet at a time! Resources: Connect with and follow Brittney Riley Gavini on LinkedIn. Follow Pivotal Ventures on LinkedIn and explore their website.

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD.Save $100 on your registration ⁠here ⁠by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100” The most powerful solutions in behavioral health often come not from professionals, but from peers who’ve walked the same path. In this episode, Arc Telos Saint Amour (they/them), Executive Director of Youth MOVE National, shares their lived experience navigating child welfare, houselessness, the justice system, and behavioral health from birth. As a queer, trans, disabled person of color, Tay reflects on how their identity and history shaped their lifelong mission to transform care for systems-impacted youth. They explain how peer support, rooted in trust, agency, and love, offers a life-saving alternative to broken institutions, and push back on narratives that blame social media, arguing it can be a vital source of safety and connection for marginalized young people. Tay also challenges widespread misunderstandings about peer support, its grassroots origins, its essential equity lens, and how it's often co-opted or commodified, offering a bold call to see youth not as problems to fix, but as people to trust, support, and uplift. Tune in and learn what it means to truly listen to youth, challenge systems, and support healing through the power of peers! Resources: Connect with and follow Arc Telos Saint Amour (they/them) on LinkedIn. Follow Youth MOVE National on LinkedIn and explore their website.  Email Tay directly here.

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD.Save $100 on your registration ⁠here ⁠by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100” Delivering effective, modern psychiatric care demands clinical excellence, technological innovation, and a deep understanding of patient context. In this episode, Dr. Arpan Parikh, Chief Medical Officer of SOL Mental Health, and Dr. Amit Parikh, Chief Medical Officer of Brave Health, reflect on how their upbringing, medical training, and deep family roots in psychiatry shaped their professional paths. They explore how the role of the Chief Medical Officer has evolved to include not just clinical quality, but also access, patient-centered workflows, and collaboration with payers. The brothers take a close look at the fragmentation in mental health care and emphasize the value of integrated therapy and psychiatry models, seamless patient experiences, and creating a supportive workplace for clinicians. They also discuss how virtual care can meet the needs of Medicaid populations facing barriers like housing insecurity and transportation challenges, while stressing the importance of leadership training, cultural change in the field, and careful use of technology like AI and ambient scribes to enhance patient-centered care. Tune in and learn how two leaders are reshaping behavioral health by blending compassion, systems thinking, and clinical rigor to drive meaningful change! Resources: Connect with and follow Arpan Parikh on LinkedIn. Follow SOL Mental Health on LinkedIn and explore their website.  Connect with and follow Amit Parikh on LinkedIn. Learn more about Brave Health on LinkedIn and visit their website.

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD. Save $100 on your registration ⁠here ⁠by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100” Video introductions are a powerful tool to enhance the therapeutic alliance even before therapy begins.  In this episode, Daniel Sorochkin, Founder and CEO of TakeOne, explores the challenges therapy platforms face, such as poor therapist-client matches, high dropout rates, and awkward first sessions. He explains how traditional therapist profiles often fall short, lacking the depth needed to build trust and connection. Daniel makes the case for therapist introduction videos as a powerful tool to improve retention and engagement, while also acknowledging the barriers to adoption like cost, complexity, and therapist hesitance. TakeOne solves these issues with an automated, scalable video solution, and Daniel emphasizes that despite advances in AI, genuine human connection remains central to effective therapy. Tune in and learn how incorporating personalized video content transforms client-therapist interactions, reducing no-shows and dramatically improving client satisfaction and retention! Resources: Connect with and follow Daniel Sorochkin on LinkedIn. Follow TakeOne on LinkedIn and explore their website.

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD. Save $100 on your registration here by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100” Leveraging technology and AI in behavioral healthcare can bridge access gaps, enhance person-centered care, and promote health equity through innovative, community-focused solutions. In this episode, Wes Williams, VP and Chief Information Officer at WellPower, shares insights on leveraging technology and AI to address gaps in behavioral healthcare. He discusses WellPower's commitment to health equity and community-focused solutions, emphasizing the importance of personalized care and human-centered design. Wes highlights how digital tools, like AI-driven digital scribes, can optimize workflows and deliver more tailored care to individuals. He also explores collaboration opportunities for innovative solutions to expand access to mental health services. Tune in to discover how technology and AI are revolutionizing behavioral healthcare!  Resources: Connect with and follow Wes Williams on LinkedIn. Follow WellPower on LinkedIn and explore their website.

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD. Save $100 on your registration here by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100” Innovative technology solutions designed for behavioral health providers are transforming the way care is delivered, making it more efficient and impactful. In this episode, Ben Lawrence, Director of Behavioral Health Clinic Operations, and Dr. Ben Kurian, Executive Medical Director of Risk Identification and Outreach, from Health Care Service Corporation (HCSC), discuss the RIO program’s data-driven, multidisciplinary approach to behavioral and medical health comorbidities. They tackle the challenges of opioid management and untreated depression. Lawrence and Dr. Kurian address outreach and member engagement hurdles, exploring digital methods while adhering to privacy laws. Their active partnership with the American College of Surgeons promotes non-opioid pain management strategies, demonstrating their commitment to evolving care. Tune in to learn how HCSC's innovative digital solutions are shaping the future of behavioral health care, improving provider engagement, and enhancing patient outcomes. Resources: Connect with and follow Dr. Ben Kurian on LinkedIn. Connect with and follow Ben Lawrence on LinkedIn. Follow Health Care Service Corporation on LinkedIn and explore their website.

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD. Save $100 on your registration here by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100” Efficient, tech-driven revenue cycle management is key to scaling behavioral health services and sustaining financial stability amid rising mental health care demand. In this episode, Chris Powell, CEO of Prosperity Behavioral Health, explains the pivotal role of financial infrastructure in the expanding field of behavioral healthcare. He discusses how revenue cycle management addresses the growing demand for mental health services. Chris highlights topics ranging from streamlining financial operations to leveraging technology and AI. He also highlights strategies for enhancing care access while supporting the operational growth of behavioral health organizations. Tune in to discover how simplifying financial operations and embracing technology are transforming behavioral healthcare access. Resources: Connect and follow Chris Powell on LinkedIn. Follow Prosperity Behavioral Health on LinkedIn and explore their website.

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD. Save $100 on your registration here by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100” Creating inclusive environments for neurodivergent individuals requires addressing stigma, fostering disclosure, and providing tailored solutions to support employees and their families. In this episode, Melissa Danielsen, CEO at Joshin, shares her journey of creating solutions to support neurodivergent individuals and their families in navigating fragmented systems and how her company aims to bridge these gaps. She explores the prevalence of neurodivergence in workplaces and the stigma surrounding disclosure. Melissa mentions the innovative outcomes achieved through coaching and navigation support services. She calls for increased awareness and specialized workplace solutions to foster inclusive environments. Tune in to learn how these innovative solutions are transforming support for neurodivergent individuals and reshaping workplaces for inclusivity! Resources: Connect and follow Melissa Danielsen on LinkedIn. Follow Joshin on their LinkedIn. Discover their website, and reach out at [email protected]

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD. Save $100 on your registration here by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100” Mental health startups targeting employers need to understand employer challenges, build relationships, and innovate to make care accessible, affordable, and integrated. In this episode, Ryan Koo, Employee Benefits Consultant at Marsh McLennan Agency, talks about critical challenges and opportunities in the mental health landscape. Ryan highlights actionable insights for startups aiming to succeed in employer markets. He discusses the vital role of community and relationships in the healthcare ecosystem. Ryan also discusses emerging trends like integrated mental health solutions addressing acute and chronic needs. Tune in to discover how to bridge gaps in mental health care, foster innovation, and navigate the complex employer ecosystem with actionable strategies and expert insights! Resources: Connect with and follow Ryan Koo on LinkedIn. Follow Marsh McLennan Agency on LinkedIn and visit their website.

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD. Save $100 on your registration here by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100” Innovative partnerships and culturally tailored approaches are essential to expanding access to behavioral health services and addressing critical gaps in care. In this episode, Luis Suarez, CEO of Sanarai, and Stella Tran, Senior Program Investment Officer of the California Health Care Foundation, talk about the importance of building trust and leveraging cultural competence. Luis shares how his organization provides culturally relevant mental health services for Spanish-speaking communities, addressing a critical gap in access. Stella discusses how her foundation uses innovation as a lever to improve care quality and access for low-income populations. Tune in to discover how innovation and cultural competence are transforming behavioral health access for underserved communities! Resources: Connect with and follow Luis Suarez on LinkedIn. Connect with and follow Stella Tran on LinkedIn. Follow Sanarai on LinkedIn and explore their website. Follow the California Health Care Foundation on LinkedIn and discover their website. Listen to the podcast Making Waves in Health Tech here.

Innovative solutions and heartfelt experiences are driving significant changes in mental health care. In this episode of the Expanding Access podcast, Tina Keshani, co-founder and CEO of Seven Starling, highlights the urgent need for addressing maternal mental health. 1 in 5 women experience perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, which are often underreported and untreated. Tina shares that Seven Starling’s specialized care tailored specifically for women features specialized therapists, groups for shared experiences, and partnerships with OB/GYNs for seamless referrals. Tune in to explore how Seven Starling's personal experiences and innovative technology are shaping the future of maternal mental healthcare! Resources: Connect with and follow Tina Keshani on LinkedIn. Follow Seven Starling on LinkedIn and explore their website.   Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD. Save $100 on your registration here by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100”

Transforming mental healthcare through personal stories and innovative solutions is pivotal in enhancing access for all. In this episode, Dr. Mike Franz, Executive Medical Director for Behavioral Health at Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Oregon, shares his personal battles with depression and anxiety, illustrating how these experiences shape his empathetic approach to patient care. He emphasizes the significance of effective treatment, highlighting therapy, medication, and the need to destigmatize mental health issues. Dr. Franz discusses the interdependence of mental and physical health, showcasing the accessible services his health plan offers, such as rapid access to psychiatrists and therapists. He encourages leaders to openly share their mental health journeys to help reduce stigma and foster a more supportive environment. Tune in to discover how Dr. Franz is transforming behavioral health care, breaking down barriers to access, and inspiring inclusive solutions for everyone! Resources: Connect with and follow Dr. Mike Franz on LinkedIn. Follow Behavioral Health Tech on LinkedIn and explore their website.  Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD. Save $100 on your registration here by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100”

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD. Save $100 on your registration here by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100” The 988 crisis lifeline must integrate into a broader mental health network through partnerships, technology, and strategic expansion to tackle the root causes of crises effectively. In this episode, Pawel Walczuk, Managing Director at Accenture, discusses the transformative potential of 988, the national mental health crisis line. He highlights how it can evolve to address broader behavioral health needs and the importance of connecting the crisis line to a broader care ecosystem. Pawel also talks about addressing workforce shortages through technology and leveraging partnerships across startups, governments, and larger organizations to scale solutions effectively.  Tune in to explore how 988 can evolve into a cornerstone for comprehensive mental health care!  Resources: Connect with and follow Pawel Walczuk on LinkedIn. Follow Accenture on LinkedIn and explore the website.

Increased awareness, empathetic management, and culturally competent care are essential for addressing the unique needs of neurodivergent individuals. In this episode, Rebecca Warnken, Inclusive Benefits Leader at the Practice of Health Transformation at Aon, talks about navigating neurodiversity in the workplace and in healthcare. She discusses the challenges and opportunities associated with supporting neurodivergent individuals, both as employees and patients. Rebecca shares her personal and professional journey advocating for increased awareness, better benefits, and cultural competency in care for neurodivergent populations. Tune in to learn how creating inclusive environments for neurodivergent individuals benefits everyone, from the workplace to healthcare! Resources: Connect with and follow Rebecca Warnken on LinkedIn. Follow Aon on LinkedIn and explore their website. Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD. Save $100 on your registration here by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100”

Purpose-built technology solutions tailored for behavioral health providers are essential to enable a more efficient and impactful care delivery system. In this episode, Chad Dodd, Vice President of Product Management at Athena Health, talks about the growing need for innovation in behavioral health technology.  Chad addresses the challenges of administrative burdens, provider shortages, and patient care gaps. He highlights the development of purpose-built solutions for behavioral health providers.  Chad discusses how these tools prioritize asynchronous communication, interoperability, and tailored workflows to alleviate burnout and improve care delivery. Tune in to discover how technology is revolutionizing behavioral health care, addressing provider burnout, and enhancing patient outcomes! Resources: Connect with and follow Chad Dodd on LinkedIn. Follow Athena Health on LinkedIn and explore their website.  Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD. Save $100 on your registration here by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100”

Autism advocacy is transforming perceptions and increasing awareness in various domains. In this episode of the Expanding Access podcast, Jennifer Palumbo, a freelance writer at Wonder Woman Writer, shares her journey with autism and infertility, driven by raising her neurodivergent son. She highlights the importance of dispelling misconceptions about autism in the workplace to showcase the value of neurodivergent individuals. Advocacy has been empowering for Jennifer, akin to her previous stand-up comedy work, and she emphasizes humor's role in coping with challenges and making complex topics accessible through Wonder Woman Writer. Jennifer's future panel will explore neurodivergence and technology, and she encourages openness about personal challenges to reduce stigma, inviting listeners to connect with her on platforms like Forbes and Today. Tune in to this insightful episode to learn more about Jennifer's advocacy and the power of humor in navigating life's challenges! Resources: Connect with and follow Jennifer Palumbo on LinkedIn. Follow Wonder Woman Writer LLC on LinkedIn and explore their website.  Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD. Save $100 on your registration here by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100”

Adolescent behavioral healthcare is undergoing a transformation through innovative virtual solutions. In this episode, Robert MacNaughton, co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Antelope Recovery, discusses how his organization addresses challenges in adolescent behavioral healthcare, including mental health deserts and stigmas against virtual care. Antelope Recovery provides virtual, personalized care for high-acuity teens, integrating therapy within their home environments and collaborating with school and healthcare providers. Robert emphasizes the effectiveness of virtual care in improving teens' real-life situations and highlights the importance of clinician wellbeing, collaboration, and sustainable practices. He also advocates for a growth mindset to continually address deficiencies in the behavioral health system. Tune in to discover how Antelope Recovery is transforming adolescent behavioral healthcare with innovative virtual solutions! Resources: Connect with and follow Robert MacNaughton on LinkedIn. Follow Antelope Recovery on LinkedIn and explore their website.  Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD. Save $100 on your registration here by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100”