Time Central	Wednesday, March 18 Subject to change	Location
7 - 8am	Support Group Meeting
7:30 - 8:30am	Breakfast with Exhibitors
8:30 - 8:35am	Opening Announcements
8:35 - 9:35am CE: 1.00	Session 5: Emerging Substance Abuse Trends Amongst HealthCare Professionals Kimberly Kabernagel, DO, MBA, FASAM; Geisinger; Waverly, Pennsylvania Exploration of the trends in substance and process addictions amongst healthcare professionals. Follow latest on substance use treatment of the healthcare professional Learner Objectives: Current State of substance use and treatment of the healthcare professional. Treatment objectives for the healthcare professional.  Emerging trends in substance use, process addictions, and coocurring disorders amongst healthcare professionals.
9:40 - 11:10am CE: 1.50	Session 6:  Breaking the Stigma: Exploring Addiction, Treatment, and Trauma-Informed Care Andrea Yatsco, PhD, CADC, LCDC, CCS; UT Health Science Center Houston; Houston, Texas This session will challenge common misconceptions about substance use disorders and examines how addiction affects the brain. Participants will review evidence-based treatments and multiple pathways to recovery, while learning how to apply trauma-informed care principles in addiction treatment. The session will also address the impact of stigmatizing language and behaviors, offering strategies to promote more respectful and supportive interactions with individuals in recovery. Learner Objectives: Explore misconceptions about substance use disorders and highlight how the disease of addiction changes the brain.  Review effectiveness of evidence-based treatments and various pathways to recovery.  Discuss the guiding principles of trauma informed care and application to addiction treatment.  Recognize stigmatizing language and behaviors and list response strategies to improve interactions.
11:10 - 11:30am	Break with Exhibitors
11:30 - 12:30pm	NOAP Annual Member Meeting Call to Order Approval of the Agenda Approval of the Prior Meeting Minutes Introduction of Board Members Current Year Accomplishments & Goals for the Upcoming Year Committee Reports Membership Committee Research Committee Conference Committee Finance Report Election Results NOAP 2026 Annual Education Conference Old/New Business Adjourn
12:30 - 1:30pm	Lunch All attendees
1:30 - 4:10pm CE: 2.50	Session 7. MRO Toxicology Panel Moderator:  Brittany Majefski, MSN, RN, PMH-BC; Texas Peer Assistance Program for Nurses; Austin, Texas This panel discussion delves into the evolving landscape of toxicology testing and the pivotal role of Medical Review Officers (MROs). This year's presentation will focus on cutting-edge technologies and innovative approaches to detecting and managing novel substances of abuse. Our expert panelists will share their experiences and strategies for overcoming the latest challenges in toxicology testing, while also examining the broader implications for workplace safety and productivity and discuss how advancements in drug testing policies are shaping various industries. Learner Objectives: Gain a comprehensive understanding of the evolving responsibilities of Medical Review Officers (MROs) in the context of advancing toxicology testing methodologies and technologies. Examine the challenges posed by the emergence of novel substances of abuse and explore innovative strategies for their detection and management in toxicology testing. Analyze the relationship between toxicology testing, workplace safety, and productivity, with a focus on developing and implementing industry-specific drug testing policies that prioritize best practices and legal compliance. Engage in discussions surrounding the future of toxicology testing and the role of MROs in shaping policies and procedures to meet the demands of an ever-changing landscape.
	Afternoon; Dinner on your own

Time Central	Thursday, March 19 Subject to change	Location
7 - 7:30am	Support Group Meeting
7 - 8am	Breakfast with Exhibitors
8 - 8:05am	Welcome & Announcements
8:05 - 9:35am CE: 1.50	Session 8: Breaking Barriers: Addressing Stigma and Bias Through Person-Centered Care Crystal Walsh, RSPS; UTHealth Houston/Opioid Response Network Consultant; Houston, Texas Stigma and bias remain significant barriers to recovery and wellness for individuals with substance use disorders and mental health diagnoses. This session explores the roots and impact of stigma, identifies implicit and explicit biases, and provides actionable strategies to foster person-centered care. Attendees will learn how language shapes perception and outcomes, and gain practical tools to create inclusive, respectful environments that promote healing and trust. Learner Objectives: Define stigma and bias and describe their impact on individuals with substance use and mental health disorders. Identify strategies for implementing person-centered language and care to reduce stigma and improve patient outcomes.  Recognize implicit bias and apply best practices to create a supportive, recovery-oriented environment.
9:35 - 9:55am	Break with Exhibitors
9:55 - 10:55am CE: 1.00	Session 9: Co-occurring disorders: Navigating Diagnosis and Treatment Lantie Jorandby, MD, DFAPA; Gulf Breeze Recovery; Fernandina Beach, Florida Individuals needing substance use disorder treatment may also have co-occurring disorders and if not addressed can be a barrier for good recovery. In this presentation we will review the best approach to screening and treatment. Special considerations for the medical professional will also be covered. Learner Objectives: Describe evidence-based strategies for screening and identification of co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders.  Summarize current best practices for integrated treatment planning and intervention for individuals with co-occurring disorders.  Review special considerations for the medical professional.
11 - 12:30pm CE: 1.50	Session 10: Maintaining Recovery within the Professional Workforce LaNisha Jiles, PSS, ToC, RSPS; Santa Maria Hostel; Houston, Texas Individuals in professional settings may become challenged with staying connected to support due to their professional background. Understanding how to stay connected while navigating their personal and professional lives is imperative. Being actively involved in recovery stabilizes other areas in life. Learner Objectives: Identify challenges professionals face in maintaining recovery within workplace environments. Describe strategies for balancing professional responsibilities with ongoing recovery needs.  Evaluate methods for developing and sustaining peer and organizational support networks. Apply communication approaches to reduce stigma and foster supportive professional engagement.
12:30pm	Grab 'n go Lunch
12:30pm	Afternoon; Evening open

Time Central	Friday, March 20 Subject to change	Location
7 - 8am	Support Group Meeting
7:30 - 8:30am	Breakfast with Exhibitors
8:30 - 8:40am	Welcome & Opening
8:40 - 10:25am CE: 1.50	Session 11: NCSBN Update; Washington ATD Program Update; Suicide Prevention Update
10:30 - 11:30am CE: 1.00	Session 12: NeuroCognitive Testing: The Ins and Outs for Safety Sensitive Professionals Michelle Ann Prosje, Psy.D.; NeuroBehavioral Specialists of Jacksonville & Dallas-Fort Worth; Flower Mound, Texas Safety Sensitive Professionals (SSP), including doctors, nurses, and pilots, must maintain optimal cognitive and psychological functioning to ensure public safety and operational integrity. This presentation will review all aspects of neuropsychological assessment from start to finish for safety sensitive professionals as "fitness for duty (FFD)" evaluations including: reason, purpose, preparation, procedure, standardized testing, results, impressions, feedback, and recommendations. Case studies will also be discussed to elucidate the process each professional goes through for the FFD evaluation from referral question through statement about safety to practice. Learner Objectives: To explain the reason for and requirements inherent in neuropsychological assessment by a trained neuropsychologist with specific expertise working with SSPs.  To identify key domains assessed and their relevance to safety sensitive job performance.  To explore case study examples and how comprehensive neuropsychological assessment informs the SSPs safety to practice.
11:30am	Conference Closing

Conference Presenters

Alphabetical by last name

Natalie Conrad, MBA, BSN, RN, CEN, CPEN, CARN; Addiction Recovery Center by Texas Health; Highland Village, Texas 

Natalie is a triple board-certified nurse with 22 years of experience in Dallas/Fort Worth. In long-term recovery since 2020, she shares her story to reduce stigma and promote resilience among nurses. A 2024 Champion of Excellence and 2025 D Magazine Excellence in Nursing honoree, she completed the TCU Evidence-Based Practice Fellowship and founded Nurse Rise Texas, a peer support group for nurses in recovery. Natalie serves on the TPAPN Advisory Committee, works in emergency and addiction care, and is pursuing her PMHNP to expand access to compassionate addiction medicine.

LaNisha Jiles, PSS, ToC, RSPS; Santa Maria Hostel; Houston, Texas 

LaNisha Jiles understands the pivotal role of peer support in the discovery and rediscovery of oneself in Recovery, which has echoed through her passion and continuous dedication to the recovery of peers. LaNisha is a product of peer support and has served as a Certified Recovery Support Peer Specialist for over a decade. Ms. Jiles has a combination of professional experience that has gained an unparalleled recognition amongst her colleagues and enabled her to influence numerous populations. Ms. Jiles' professional experience includes her current role as Senior Director of Recovery Support Services at Santa Maria Hostel; previous role as a Program Director at Recovery ATX; Lead Peer/Data Coordinator (Santa Maria)Trainer of Coaches, Consultant/SME (S-SW ATTC; UT Austin), Curricula Writer/Facilitator/Consultant (Addiction Research Institute); Facilitator/Trainer (Opioid Response Network, Faces&Voices of Recovery); Client Liaison for SMH Board. LaNisha's current role as a Consultant/Subject Matter Expert has also aided in her profound skillset by enhancing the peer workforce through educating and training peers. Ms. Jiles obtained her AAS Degree, with a Concentration in Human Services at Houston Community College. She has been acknowledged for the empowerment, hope and motivation she instills in others through her public speaking,

Lantie Jorandby, MD, DFAPA; Gulf Breeze Recovery; Fernandina Beach, Florida 

Dr. Jorandby completed medical school and residency at the University of Florida. After completing her Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship at Yale School of Medicine, she served as Medical Director for the dual diagnosis unit at McLean Hospital in Belmont, MA. She is board certified in addiction psychiatry, addiction medicine and general psychiatry. Dr. Jorandby worked as Chief Medical Officer for Lakeview Health, a co-occurring substance use disorder facility for five years. At Lakeview, she oversaw the development of programs for Veterans, First Responders and professionals. She currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of Gulf Breeze Recovery, a substance use co-occurring facility in the Panhandle of Florida.

Kimberly Kabernagel, DO, MBA, FASAM; Geisinger; Waverly, Pennsylvania 

Kimberly completed her medical education at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed residency at Wellspan York Hospital, obtaining a primary board certification in Family Medicine. She then went on to complete an Addiction Medicine fellowship at Geisinger Marworth, obtaining a specialty board certification in Addiction Medicine. Dr. Kabernagel started and developed Geisinger Health System’s first Addiction Medicine Consult and Liaison service. She remained in the Geisinger System, beginning her current role as Medical Director of Geisinger Marworth Drug and Alcohol Treatment Center January of 2020. Dr. Kabernagel serves on the Geisinger Behavioral Health leadership team and is active with ASAM in various capacities. She also serves as an Associate Professor of Medicine at the Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine.

Brittany Majefski, MSN, RN, PMH-BC; Texas Peer Assistance Program for Nurses; Austin, Texas 

Brittney has been a Registered Nurse since 2013 and holds a masters degree in nursing education. Brittney has held a variety of positions over the years from direct care, infection control to various leadership positions including Assistance Director and Director of Nursing at a Residential Treatment Center for Adolescents. In addition to her work as a Director of Nursing, she worked for The University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing from 2021 to January of 2023 as a clinical instructor and course facilitator for the AE Psych-Mental Health course. Her passion for education and mental health are what drive her to continue to advocate for continual improvements to the field of nursing. Since January of 2023 she has served as the Texas Peer Assistance Program for Nurses Program Director and holds and ANCC certification as a psychiatric mental health nurse. She is a TNA/ANA member, has written for the Texas Nurses Magazine and presented research and poster presentations at State conferences and serves on the Board of Directors for the National Organization of Alternative Programs. On a more personal note, Brittney enjoys the outdoors, reading, traveling & spending time with her family and friends. She has been happily married to her husband of 17 years who is a first responder for the City of Austin.

Stacy McColl, MSN, RN, CARN; Texas Peer Assisted Program for Nurses (TPAPN)-Outreach Specialist; Austin, Texas 

Stacy is a dynamic and dedicated mental health professional with over 20 years of experience addressing a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including substance use disorders and their comorbidities, particularly within the healthcare workforce. Passionate about dismantling stigma, bias, and discrimination that hinder access to care and negatively impact individuals and communities. Committed to outreach and education across academic institutions, healthcare facilities, and community settings to promote wellness, enhance understanding of stress responses, encourage timely interventions, and reduce risks associated with overdose and suicide. Advocating for the humanization of healthcare professionals to foster a more compassionate approach.

Michelle Ann Prosje, Psy.D.; NeuroBehavioral Specialists of Jacksonville & Dallas-Fort Worth; Flower Mound, Texas 

Michelle is a licensed psychologistlneuropsychologist who has an extensive background in education and psychology, with expertise in neuropsychology. She trained at the University of Florida, Emory University, and the University of Alabama-Birmingham. Dr. Prosje works with individuals across the lifespan with neurological disorders, including stroke, traumatic brain injury, Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, dementia, and addiction. She started focusing on safety sensitive workers/professionals approximately 10 years ago. In private practice, Dr. Prosje continues to forge connections with colleagues and patients alike as an approved provider for a dual diagnosis treatment center, numerous state medical boards, and for the FAA HIMS program.

Elizabeth Temple, M.Ed; CEO; Birchwood Solutions; Franklin, Tennessee 

Elizabeth is the Founder and CEO of Birchwood Solutions, a trailblazing organization providing innovative services to State Boards and Alternative to Discipline (ATD) programs for over a decade. Elizabeth brings a forward-thinking approach to addiction recovery and professional monitoring programs across the nation. A visionary leader with a passion for excellence, Elizabeth has spearheaded creative solutions that deliver valuable insights and measurable relief to various programs. Leveraging her extensive knowledge of healthcare practice, compliance, and education she adeptly designs and implements effective program solution for State Alternative Programs and Licensing Boards. Through her leadership, Birchwood Solutions has become a trusted provider of educational support group services and program and curriculum development for healthcare professionals.

Crystal Walsh, RSPS; UTHealth Houston/Opioid Response Network Consultant; Houston, Texas

Crystal Walsh is a TCB Certified Recovery Support Peer Specialist and Consultant with the Opioid Response Network. She works on the frontlines of the opioid crisis, providing person-centered care through assertive overdose outreach and connecting individuals to treatment and recovery resources. Crystal advocates for access to Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) and supports treatment-focused alternatives to incarceration in Specialty Drug Courts. Her work emphasizes harm reduction through community education on opioid use disorder and fentanyl, naloxone training, and distribution of life-saving medications. Crystal is passionate about reducing stigma and bias in healthcare and advancing trauma-informed, recovery-oriented practices.

Michael Weaver, MD, DFASAM; University of Texas Health Science Center; Houston, Texas 

Michael is a Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Medical Director of the Center for Neurobehavioral Research on Addiction at the McGovern Medical School at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. He is Board-certified in both Internal Medicine and Addiction Medicine. He is currently involved in patient care, medical education, and research. Dr. Weaver sees patients in the Innovations Addiction Treatment Clinic at the Texas Medical Center in Houston. He has extensive experience teaching about addiction to trainees and professionals at all levels. He is involved in multiple research projects and has multiple publications in the field of addiction medicine.

Andrea Yatsco, PhD, CADC, LCDC, CCS; UT Health Science Center Houston; Houston, Texas 

Andrea earned her doctorate in Criminal Justice from Sam Houston State University, where her dissertation examined military service, delinquency, and substance use. She completed undergraduate studies at the University of Arizona, focusing on psychological and sociological predictors of deviant behavior. Dr. Yatsco has counseled incarcerated populations in Massachusetts and worked with families and adolescents in Vermont. Formerly an adjunct professor at Becker College, she taught forensic psychology and developed grant-funded substance education initiatives. She is currently an Assistant Professor at UTHealth Houston and Director of Operations at the Center for Behavioral Emergency and Addiction Research, overseeing clinical research.

Conference Meal Functions

Coming soon

Coming soon