Keynote Speaker | Maj. Gen.
PRESENTED by THE:
School of Behavioral Sciences
School of Business
Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine
School of Nursing
School of Health Sciences
MARCH 28-29, 2025
EARN CONTINUING EDUCATION AND
CONTINUED MEDICAL EDUCATION CREDITS!
Liberty University’s Counselor Education & Family Studies Department has been approved by the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC) as an Approved Continuing Education Provider (ACEP), No. 4592. This event offers 5 NBCC CE credits.
Programs that qualify for credit are specifically noted. The Liberty University Counselor Education & Family Studies Department is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) through the joint providership of the Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine (LUCOM) and the Liberty University School of Behavioral Sciences. LUCOM is accredited by the ACCME to provide continuing medical education for physicians. LUCOM designates this educational activity for a maximum of 3.75 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
LUCOM has determined that 16 presentations qualify for CME credit. Programs that qualify for Continued Medical Education (CME) credit have also been noted.
SATURDAY, MARCH 29
9-10 a.m. | Check-In & Breakfast
Montview Student Union, Alumni Ballroom
10-11:30 a.m. | Welcome Session
Montview Student Union, Alumni Ballroom
• Worship by the Liberty Worship Collective
• Introduction by Dr. Kenyon Knapp
• Keynote Address by Maj. Gen. Bob Dees
11:40 a.m.-12:25 p.m. | Breakout Session #1
AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT UPDATES
Presented by LUCOM in DeMoss Hall, Room 3152
• Speaker: Olubukola Ojuola, M.P.H., M.D.
• Overview: This session provides an overview of the latest updates in diagnosing and treating Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), emphasizing early detection and individualized interventions. Attendees will explore assessment tools, evidence-based treatments, and emerging research on genetics and neurobiology. The presentation also highlights the critical role of family support and community resources in improving outcomes for individuals with ASD.
CHRISTIAN IDENTITY AND MENTAL HEALTH
Presented by the School of Business in DeMoss Hall, Room 3026
• Speakers:
• Jason Vranes, M.B.A., Ed.D.
• Ashley Tharpe, M.P.H., M.S., M.A., CHES, Ed.D.
• Overview: Many students enter college seeking to define their identity and purpose, and Christian faculty are uniquely positioned to mentor and help them define their biblically based identity. This presentation highlights the importance of faculty-student relationships, the role of absolute truth in a relativistic world, and the impact of community outreach and innovative technology.
BEAUTY FROM ASHES: EMPOWERING FUTURE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS TO TRANSFORM THEIR PAST TRAUMAS INTO ASSETS
Presented by the School of Behavioral Sciences in DeMoss Hall, Room 3064
• Speaker: Cheryl Nitz, ACSW, LCSW
• Overview: Many human services workers are drawn to helping professions due to personal experiences with suffering, with studies showing that 70% have faced childhood adversity. While this background can inspire compassion, it also presents challenges for both professionals and their clients. This discussion explores how to support students with trauma histories and help them transform their experiences into strengths for serving others with excellence and empathy.
SUICIDALITY
IN CUSTOMS AND BORDER PATROL: CONCEPTUALIZING MORAL SUFFERING AS A CONTINUUM
Presented by the School of Health Sciences in DeMoss Hall, Room 3082
• Speaker: Lt. Col. Steven Bunch, Ret., M.A., M.S., MHC
• Overview: A 2023 Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General report states there were 134 suicides among Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) officers over 14 years. This presentation will use a Christian perspective to analyze the challenges CBP officials face on a daily basis and highlight the emotions associated with moral suffering, suicidal ideation, and daily trauma.
NOURISHING
THE MIND: UNVEILING FOOD AS MEDICINE THROUGH NUTRITIONAL PSYCHIATRY
Presented by the School of Nursing in DeMoss Hall, Room 3044
• Speaker: Deidre Simpson, Pharm.D., R.P.H.
• Overview: Understanding the connection between diet, mental health, and well-being is essential in today’s fast-paced world. This session explores the microbiome-gut-brain axis, the impact of diet on neurotransmitter function, and how specific foods influence mental wellness. Attendees will gain practical strategies to integrate nutritional psychiatry into daily life, using food as a tool for cognitive and emotional balance.
12:35-1:25 p.m. | Lunch
1:30-2:15 p.m. | Breakout Session #2
ANALYZING THE IMPACT OF “WOKE CULTURE”
Presented by the School of Business in DeMoss Hall, Room 3026
• Speakers:
• Jason Vranes, MBA, Ed.D.
• Alexander Averin, MBA, Ph.D.
• Overview: This presentation will investigate the impact The Walt Disney Company has had on corporate decision-making and how it deviates from biblical principles in favor of humanistic, socialist, and atheist ideologies. Disney’s shift from a family-friendly brand to a leader in cancel culture and progressive agendas serves as a case study in the broader implications of rejecting absolute truth.
CLINICALLY INTEGRATING A CHRISTIAN WORLDVIEW THROUGH THE BIBLICAL WELLNESS MODEL
Presented by the School of Behavioral Sciences in DeMoss Hall, Room 3064
• Speakers:
• David Jones, Ed.D.
• Ken Miller, Ph.D., M.Div., LPC, NCC
• Kevin Hull, Ph.D., LMHC, RPT, CGP
• Overview: In this session, we’ll examine how the Biblical Wellness (B-Well) Model integrates a biblical worldview into clinical healthcare practice, aligning the wellness concepts of mind, body, and spirit with six key facets: heart, mind, strength, soul, neighbor, and society. This model provides a flexible framework for applying biblical principles across assessment, diagnosis, case conceptualization, and treatment. By fostering a holistic approach, B-Well helps practitioners tend to the whole person, enhancing clinical outcomes.
THE EFFICACY OF DIGITAL MENTAL HEALTH APPS: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF CURRENT EVIDENCE
Presented by LUCOM in DeMoss Hall, Room 3152
• Speaker: Kirsten Madea, D.O.
• Overview: This presentation reviews the scientific evidence on mental health apps and their effectiveness in managing anxiety, depression, stress, and mindfulness. It explores key research on app-based interventions like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness, with a focus on efficacy across different age groups. Attendees will gain insights into emerging trends, challenges, and practical applications for integrating digital mental health tools into therapeutic practices.
cme
POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION IN THE SPOTLIGHT AND HOW HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS CAN HELP
Presented by the School of Health Sciences in DeMoss Hall, Room 3082
• Speaker: Madison Howard, B.S. in Biomedical Sciences
• Overview: Postpartum depression (PPD) affects 1 in 7 women, impacting maternal well-being, infant development, and family relationships. Recent research highlights risk factors and emphasizes the importance of therapy, telemedicine, and early intervention. This presentation equips healthcare providers with actionable strategies to treat PPD and improve care for mothers and their children.
THE IMPACT OF CYBER VICTIMIZATION ON ADOLESCENT MENTAL HEALTH
Presented by the School of Nursing in DeMoss Hall, Room 3044
• Speakers:
• Folashade Odedina, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC
• Sherri Walker, Ph.D., PMHNP-BC
• Overview: Cyber victimization is a growing risk factor for mental health disorders among adolescents. This session explores its prevalence and impact on adolescent well-being, as well as evidence-based interventions to mitigate harm. Attendees will learn strategies for screening, risk assessment, and promoting protective factors with an integrated Christian perspective on supporting affected youth.
2:30-3:15 p.m. | Breakout Session #3
BELIEFS AND BEHAVIORS: SHAPING FINANCIAL HEALTH AND MENTAL WELLNESS
Presented by the School of Business in DeMoss Hall, Room 3026
• Speakers:
• Erin Mills, CERTCFC
• Jack Pizor, CFP
• Overview: This session will focus on how behavior follows beliefs and the connection between financial health and mental health.
PHYSICAL
AND MENTAL WELLNESS FOR WOMEN AT MIDLIFE: IMPLICATIONS FOR MENTAL HEALTH AND HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS
Presented by the School of Behavioral Sciences in DeMoss Hall, Room 3064
• Speakers:
• Shannon Warden, Ph.D.
• Stacey Lilley, Ph.D.
• Overview: Women in midlife experience significant social, psychological, and biological changes that impact their overall wellness. This session will provide medical and mental health providers with research-based insights and practical tools for assessing and discussing wellness with middle-aged female patients. Participants may also apply these strategies to their own wellbeing, enhancing both personal health and patient care.
COVID-19’S LONG HAUL: WHEN THE VIRUS TAKES A DETOUR TO YOUR BRAIN AND EVERYWHERE ELSE
Presented by LUCOM in DeMoss Hall, Room 3152
• Speaker: Carl Hoegerl, MBA, M.D.
• Overview: This presentation explores the neurological manifestations of “Long-Haul COVID,” including brain fog, fatigue, sensory disturbances, and autonomic dysfunction. Attendees will learn about both pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic treatment options, as well as strategies for early intervention and prevention. By the end of the session, participants will be equipped to recognize, manage, and improve care for patients with long-term effects from COVID-19.
SETTING BOUNDARIES: WELL-BEING AND WORK-LIFE BALANCE OF FACULTY MEMBERS IN LIGHT OF THE CONSTANT ACCESS TO TECHNOLOGY
Presented by the School of Health Sciences in DeMoss Hall, Room 3082
• Speaker: Giordana Morales-Spier, M.P.H., Ph.D
• Overview: Faculty in higher education face stress from job dissatisfaction, administrative demands, and constant digital connectivity, leading to burnout. We’ll explore faculty perceptions of technology’s impact on work-life balance and discuss key strategies for managing stress and how institutions can support them.
INTEGRATION OF A BIOPSYCHOSOCIOSPIRITUAL MODEL IN MENTAL HEALTH TREATMENT RESISTANCE
Presented by the School of Nursing in DeMoss Hall, Room 3044
• Speaker:
• Folashade Odedina, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC
• Sherri Walker, Ph.D., PMHNP-BC
• Overview: Treatment resistance in mental health is a growing concern due to misdiagnosis, medication issues, socioeconomic barriers, and more. This presentation will cover a biopsychosocial model, addressing faith, existential concerns, and hope, expanding treatment approaches, and putting an emphasis on treatment resistance and holistic strategies to enhance patient outcomes and well-being.
3:30-4:15 p.m. | Breakout Session #4
THRIVING TOGETHER: INTEGRATING HUMAN RESOURCE (HR) STRATEGIES AND MENTAL HEALTH FOR WORKPLACE WELL-BEING
Presented by the School of Business in DeMoss Hall, Room 3026
• Speakers:
• Tammy Brown, D.B.A., SHRM-CP
• Overview: As workplaces evolve, the integration of robust HR strategies with effective mental health practices is essential for fostering a supportive and productive environment.
THROUGH THE TEARS: COUNSELING
GRIEF AND LOSS IN THE FACE OF TRAUMATIC AND SUDDEN DEATH DUE TO TRAGIC EVENTS
Presented by the School of Behavioral Sciences in DeMoss Hall, Room 3064
• Speaker: Cynthia Doney, Ph.D.
• Overview: Accepting mortality is a universal challenge, but sudden, tragic events can cause debilitating grief on a large scale. Clinicians play a crucial role in crisis intervention, requiring specialized approaches beyond traditional end-of-life counseling. This session explores effective strategies for addressing mass-causality tragedies and unexpected loss, fostering discussion on communitywide grief support and compassionate counseling.
KETAMINE AND OTHER PSYCHEDELICS: POTENTIAL AND PROBLEMS
Presented by LUCOM in DeMoss Hall, Room 3152
• Speaker: Tony Byler, M.D.
• Overview: Join us for an in-depth look at the latest research, legal landscape, and clinical applications of ketamine and psychedelics like esketamine, psilocybin, LSD, and MDMA. We’ll break down therapeutic potential, side effects, and the challenges these substances pose. We’ll also compare current use with what is supported in the literature.
IMPROVING
WATER, SANITATION, AND HYGIENE (WASH) OUTCOMES FOR MENTAL HEALTH PATIENTS IN ZIMBABWE: ANALYSIS OF FACTORS AND SOLUTIONS
Presented by the School of Health Sciences in DeMoss Hall, Room 3082
• Speakers:
• Perseverance N. Moyo, M.D.
• Wuraola Awosan, M.D.
• Overview: This study examines the link between mental health outcomes and access to WASH services in urban and rural Zimbabwe, as well as discussing how poor WASH conditions exacerbate mental health challenges. We’ll propose innovative solutions to improve WASH and mental health services, emphasizing the need for an integrated approach.
THE PRICE WE PAY
Presented by the School of Nursing in DeMoss Hall, Room 3044
• Speaker: Rebekah Vance, RN, DNP, FNE
• Overview: This presentation examines cultural factors contributing to nurse burnout and how cultural changes have impacted burnout rates. While other professions have implemented systemic solutions, nursing has largely relied on single interventions that fail to create lasting change. The need for an industrywide shift toward wellness cultures integrated into organizational policies, mission statements, and safety metrics to support nurse well-being is evident.
4:30-5:15 p.m. | Breakout Session #5
HAPPY EMPLOYEES MAKE CENTS: HOW SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGICAL INFLUENCES AFFECT EMPLOYEE HAPPINESS AND PRODUCTIVITY
Presented by the School of Business in DeMoss Hall, Room 3026
• Speaker: Chris Huseman, M.A., M.S., MBA, Ph.D.
• Overview: Motivated and happy employees go beyond the minimum requirements for their employer, giving leadership the opportunity to further invest in these productive employees by ensuring they are well cared for, respected, and validated. In this session, we’ll examine how profitability and productivity can be enhanced with leadership proactively investing in their employees.
PSYCHOLOGY OF FORGIVENESS WITH IMPLICATIONS FOR CHRISTIAN COUNSELING
Presented by the School of Behavioral Sciences in DeMoss Hall, Room 3064
• Speaker: Jichan Kim, Ph.D., M.Div.
• Overview: Hurt is a universal experience, and how individuals respond to it can impact their well-being and relationships. This session explores forgiveness from a Christian perspective, addressing misconceptions, distinctions between human-, divine-, and self-forgiveness, and its role as a moral virtue. Attendees will learn about the Enright process model of forgiveness and practical strategies for integrating forgiveness into Christian counseling.
INCREASING HEART RATE VARIABILITY (HRV), RESILIENCE, AND WELL-BEING WHILE DISCOVERING BALANCE WITH HEART© FOR LEADERS
Presented by LUCOM in DeMoss Hall, Room 3152
• Speaker:
• Teresa Ramerth, M.D.
• Barbara Lutz
• Overview: LUCOM conducted a study evaluating the effectiveness of working with horses — using the Venture2Lead Holistic Equine-Assisted Resilience Training (HEART©) curriculum — in developing leadership traits and professional identity in first-year medical students. This presentation will go over these results, which show improvements in participants’ HRV, resilience, and overall well-being.
HYPERGLYCEMIA-INDUCED AFFECTIVE DYSREGULATION AND COGNITIVE DECLINE
Presented by the School of Health Sciences in DeMoss Hall, Room 3082
• Speaker:
• Camrey Yeager, B.S. in Biomedical Sciences
• Sarah Nelson, B.S. in Zoology
• Overview: Diabetes affects 11.6% of Americans and increases the risk of depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline. In this session, we’ll be discussing a study that used a preclinical mouse model to examine how chronic metabolic stress contributes to affective and cognitive impairments, using streptozotocin to induce type 1 diabetes. Findings explore behavioral changes, brain physiology, and sex-based differences in disease progression.
AMBIGUOUS LOSS IN PERINATAL PERIOD: MENTAL HEALTH CONSEQUENCES
Presented by the School of Nursing in DeMoss Hall, Room 3044
• Speakers:
• Rachel Joseph, M.A., Ph.D., RN, CCRN
• Mary Highton, DNP, APRN, NNP-BC
• Overview: Ambiguous loss (AL) occurs when grief lacks closure, such as in cases where a loved one is physically or emotionally absent. In this session, we’ll be discussing the impact of AL on parents of premature babies and how NICU nurses play a crucial role in recognizing grief, providing support, and using a holistic approach to promote parents’ long-term well-being.
SPRING 2025