Loading…
STATEWIDE SUMMIT ON BEHAVIORAL HEALTH:
AN OPPORTUNITY FOR COLLABORATIVE CHANGE
Wednesday, May 21
 

8:00am EDT

Registration and Breakfast
Wednesday May 21, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am EDT
Light continental breakfast served in the Grand Ballroom.
Wednesday May 21, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am EDT
Turf Valley-Grand Ballroom

9:00am EDT

Welcome Address to the Summit
Wednesday May 21, 2025 9:00am - 9:30am EDT
The Summit aims to foster collaboration and help create actionable strategies for addressing key challenges for those with behavioral health issues involved in the criminal justice system.  Chief Justice Fader will emphasize the importance of working together to coordinate implementation plans effectively. While the discussions and planning at the Summit are vital, the most significant work lies in the post-Summit phase, where continued commitment and collaboration will be crucial to turning plans into tangible outcomes. The focus is on ensuring that the momentum gained here translates into long-term, impactful change.
Speakers
avatar for Matthew Fader

Matthew Fader

Chief Justice, Supreme Court of Maryland
Matthew Fader is Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Maryland. He joined the Court, then named the Court of Appeals of Maryland, and was named chief judge in April 2022.  He was previously a member of Maryland’s intermediate appellate court, now named the Appellate Court of Maryland... Read More →
Wednesday May 21, 2025 9:00am - 9:30am EDT
Turf Valley-Grand Ballroom

9:30am EDT

Plenary: Global Perspectives in Criminal Justice: The Miami Model, Competency, and Lessons from Italy
Wednesday May 21, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am EDT
This plenary session will delve into global perspectives in criminal justice, focusing on the Miami Model, competency issues, and key insights from a recent trip to Italy. This session will provide a comparative lens on how competency and criminal justice systems can evolve, drawing on local, national and international experiences to inform future practices.
Speakers
avatar for Steve Leifman

Steve Leifman

Associate Administrative Judge of the Miami-Dade County Court Criminal Division (Ret.), The Leifman Group
Judge Steve Leifman served as the Associate Administrative Judge of the Miami-Dade County Court – Criminal Division from 2000 until his retirement on December 31, 2024.  From 2007 – 2010, Judge Leifman served as Special Advisor on Criminal Justice and Mental Health for the Supreme... Read More →
Wednesday May 21, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am EDT
Turf Valley-Grand Ballroom

10:45am EDT

Morning Break
Wednesday May 21, 2025 10:45am - 11:00am EDT
Stretch your legs, grab some water and network.
Wednesday May 21, 2025 10:45am - 11:00am EDT
Turf Valley Resort 2700 Turf Valley Rd, Ellicott City, MD 21042

11:00am EDT

Transforming Early Responses: A Panel discussion on Intercepts 0-1 in Behavioral Health Crisis Responses
Wednesday May 21, 2025 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
This panel discussion will explore innovative crisis response and crisis stabilization strategies, focusing on frequent utilizers of emergency services. In addition to insights from our moderator Dr. Margie Balfour, panelists from Anne Arundel County, Baltimore City (including insights from the consent decree), Prince George’s County, Mid Shore to include the following counties (Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne and Talbot) and Washington County will share their experiences and best practices in handling crisis situations. The conversation will also address the role of hospital emergency departments in managing crises and how local jurisdictions collaborate to divert individuals from unnecessary emergency room visits. At the state level, the discussion will highlight GOCPP's crisis intervention team (CIT) centers of excellence showcasing successful models and resources. Participants will gain valuable insights into effective systems for managing and stabilizing crises, particularly for those who frequently engage with emergency services.


Moderators
avatar for Margie Balfour, MD, PhD

Margie Balfour, MD, PhD

Chief of Quality & Clinical Innovation, Connections Health Solutions
Dr. Margie Balfour is a psychiatrist and national leader in quality improvement and behavioral health crisis services.  She is the Chief of Quality and Clinical Innovation at Connections Health Solutions, which provides 24/7 access to mental health and substance use care throughout... Read More →
Speakers
KK

Kathyrn (Katie) Dilley, LCSW-C

Chief Executive Officer, Mid Shore Behavioral Health
CC

Casey Crowley, LCSW-C

Program Director, Mobile Crisis Services, Sheppard Pratt
JC

Jen Corbin

Crisis Response System Director, Anne Arundel County Police
LS

Lieutenant Steve Thomas

CIT Peer and Support Coordinator, Anne Arundel County Police
TJ

Timothy Jansen, LMSW

Chief Executive Officer, Community Crisis Services, Inc.
JH

James H. Rhoden

Assistant Director, Centers of Excellence Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy
RA

Rachel Ames

Mental Health Coordinator, Centers of Excellence Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy
Wednesday May 21, 2025 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
Turf Valley-Grand Ballroom

12:30pm EDT

Lunch
Wednesday May 21, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm EDT
A variety menu served in the Grand Ballroom.
Wednesday May 21, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm EDT
Turf Valley-Grand Ballroom

1:30pm EDT

Breakout Discussion: Plenary and Strengthening Responses at Intercepts 0-1 in the Justice System
Wednesday May 21, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm EDT
In this breakout session, participants will engage in a hands-on discussion focused on key components of Judge Leifman plenary, completing forms, receiving feedback, and sharing insights within each jurisdiction. Each group will choose a facilitator and note taker to document key points. Participants will also have access to valuable resources from jurisdictions that have completed the SIM process and participated in the Miami Workshop, including Baltimore, Cecil, Calvert, Charles, Carroll, and Montgomery counties. Additionally, updates on current SIMs in progress such as those in Allegany, Frederick, Washington, and St. Mary’s will be shared, with insights on GOCPP involvement.  Information on federal funds available to support pilot projects in these jurisdictions, empowering attendees with the tools and knowledge to move forward with their initiatives.

Wednesday May 21, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm EDT
Turf Valley-Grand Ballroom, Waverly Room and Belmont Room

2:30pm EDT

Afternoon Break
Wednesday May 21, 2025 2:30pm - 2:45pm EDT
Stretch your legs, grab some water and network.
Wednesday May 21, 2025 2:30pm - 2:45pm EDT
Turf Valley Resort 2700 Turf Valley Rd, Ellicott City, MD 21042

2:45pm EDT

Panel Discussion: Innovative Approaches in Maryland Intercepts 2-3
Wednesday May 21, 2025 2:45pm - 4:00pm EDT
This session will showcase innovative practices and collaborations in behavioral health and criminal justice, with a focus on Anne Arundel, Caroline, Carroll, Montgomery, and St. Mary’s counties. These jurisdictions will highlight their work in criminogenic screening and risk assessments, sharing insights into how these tools are used to improve outcomes and inform interventions. Additionally, the session will spotlight evidence-based practices at both the local and national level, drawing attention to successful diversion models and approaches being implemented across the country. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of emerging strategies and best practices that can be applied in their own communities.

Moderators
avatar for Richard Schwermer

Richard Schwermer

Utah State Court Administrator (Ret.), The Leifman Group
Richard Schwermer has been involved in all aspects of court administration for over 35 years. First as a state level trial court administrator, then as a legislative liaison and Assistant State Court Administrator, he retired as the Utah State Court Administrator in 2019.Since that... Read More →
Speakers
HL

Heather L. Price

Administrative Judge, Circuit Court for Caroline County
CL

Cara Lewis

Associate Judge, District Court of Maryland for Carroll County
VD

Veronica Dietz, LCSW-C

Director of Crisis Services, Carroll County Health Department Bureau of Prevention, Wellness & Recovery
BS

Ben Stevenson, M.Ed, MDE

Director, Montgomery County Government | Department of Correction and Rehabilitation
Wednesday May 21, 2025 2:45pm - 4:00pm EDT
Turf Valley-Grand Ballroom

4:00pm EDT

Presentation: Competency Challenges
Wednesday May 21, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
This presentation will explore the challenges related to competency restoration in the criminal justice system at all intercepts. Each intercept will be examined through the lens of competency—whether in terms of evaluation, treatment, or court procedures—highlighting how these challenges impact individuals with behavioral health issues and the system as a whole. The session will provide a comprehensive view of the interconnected issues across intercepts, discussing strategies to address competency at every stage and improve outcomes for individuals involved in the justice system.

Speakers
avatar for Steve Leifman

Steve Leifman

Associate Administrative Judge of the Miami-Dade County Court Criminal Division (Ret.), The Leifman Group
Judge Steve Leifman served as the Associate Administrative Judge of the Miami-Dade County Court – Criminal Division from 2000 until his retirement on December 31, 2024.  From 2007 – 2010, Judge Leifman served as Special Advisor on Criminal Justice and Mental Health for the Supreme... Read More →
avatar for Richard Schwermer

Richard Schwermer

Utah State Court Administrator (Ret.), The Leifman Group
Richard Schwermer has been involved in all aspects of court administration for over 35 years. First as a state level trial court administrator, then as a legislative liaison and Assistant State Court Administrator, he retired as the Utah State Court Administrator in 2019.Since that... Read More →
avatar for Patricia Tobias

Patricia Tobias

Administrative Director of the Idaho Courts (Ret.), The Leifman Group
Patti Tobias is a passionate and experienced Behavioral Health and Justice Consultant. Since January 1, 2025, Ms. Tobias has been a consultant with The Leifman Group working with states and communities to develop behavioral health and justice solutions.  Ms. Tobias retired in 2024... Read More →
Wednesday May 21, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Turf Valley-Grand Ballroom

5:00pm EDT

Closing Remarks for Day 1 and Preview of day 2
Wednesday May 21, 2025 5:00pm - 5:15pm EDT
Open floor for questions and summary of key points.
Speakers
avatar for Marina Sabett

Marina Sabett

Associate Judge/Behavioral Health Coordinating Judge, Maryland Judiciary
MARINA L. SABETT has been an Associate Judge for the District Court of Maryland, District6, Montgomery County, since January 20, 2017; Presiding and Coordinating Judge, MentalHealth Court, 2017-2023. As of October 2023, she was designated as the CoordinatingJudge for Behavioral Health... Read More →
Wednesday May 21, 2025 5:00pm - 5:15pm EDT
Turf Valley-Grand Ballroom

5:30pm EDT

Evening Reception: PBS documentary viewing of "Definition of Insanity"
Wednesday May 21, 2025 5:30pm - 7:00pm EDT
"The Definition of Insanity" is a PBS documentary that delves into the Miami-Dade Criminal Mental Health Project (CMHP), a pioneering initiative addressing the intersection of behavioral health and the criminal justice system. The film follows a dedicated team working through the courts to guide individuals with mental illnesses from potential incarceration toward wellness. It highlights efforts to reform the treatment of mentally ill individuals within the justice system, emphasizing diversion programs and community-based support to promote wellness over incarceration.

Panel discussion with Judge Leifman, Norm Ornstein and Judy Harris to discuss the importance and meaning, and deeply personal story behind, this PBS documentary, "The Definition of Insanity".

Refreshments will be available.
Speakers
avatar for Steve Leifman

Steve Leifman

Associate Administrative Judge of the Miami-Dade County Court Criminal Division (Ret.), The Leifman Group
Judge Steve Leifman served as the Associate Administrative Judge of the Miami-Dade County Court – Criminal Division from 2000 until his retirement on December 31, 2024.  From 2007 – 2010, Judge Leifman served as Special Advisor on Criminal Justice and Mental Health for the Supreme... Read More →
Wednesday May 21, 2025 5:30pm - 7:00pm EDT
Turf Valley-Grand Ballroom
 
Thursday, May 22
 

8:00am EDT

Breakfast
Thursday May 22, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am EDT
Light continental breakfast served in the Grand Ballroom.
Thursday May 22, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am EDT
Turf Valley-Grand Ballroom

9:00am EDT

Day 2 Welcome and Overview
Thursday May 22, 2025 9:00am - 9:15am EDT
Speakers
avatar for Marina Sabett

Marina Sabett

Associate Judge/Behavioral Health Coordinating Judge, Maryland Judiciary
MARINA L. SABETT has been an Associate Judge for the District Court of Maryland, District6, Montgomery County, since January 20, 2017; Presiding and Coordinating Judge, MentalHealth Court, 2017-2023. As of October 2023, she was designated as the CoordinatingJudge for Behavioral Health... Read More →
Thursday May 22, 2025 9:00am - 9:15am EDT
Turf Valley-Grand Ballroom

9:15am EDT

Breakout Discussion: Bridging Court Involvement and Behavioral Health: Intercepts 2-3 and Competency
Thursday May 22, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am EDT
In this breakout discussion, groups will be divided by local jurisdictions and one state-level group to focus on Intercepts 2-3 and competency restoration and the criminal justice system. Each group will work collaboratively to identify gaps in services within their respective intercepts and competency areas, discussing barriers, current limitations, and opportunities for improvement. This session aims to enhance coordination between the court system and behavioral health services, with a focus on developing actionable strategies for closing service gaps and improving outcomes at these critical touchpoints.


Thursday May 22, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am EDT
Turf Valley-Grand Ballroom, Waverly Room and Belmont Room

10:15am EDT

Lightning Talks: Civil Side of Diversion, Civil Commit, Assisted Outpatient Treatment (AOT) and Social Determinants of Health
Thursday May 22, 2025 10:15am - 11:00am EDT
This session will feature a series of lightning talks on critical topics, each providing a brief yet impactful overview of key areas in deflection, diversion and behavioral health. Presentations will cover the Civil Side of Diversion, the role of Civil Commitment, the impact and implementation of Assisted Outpatient Treatment (AOT), and the importance of Social Determinants of Health in shaping effective interventions. Each talk will highlight challenges, opportunities, and innovative approaches, sparking discussion and further exploration of these interconnected issues.
Speakers
avatar for Marina Sabett

Marina Sabett

Associate Judge/Behavioral Health Coordinating Judge, Maryland Judiciary
MARINA L. SABETT has been an Associate Judge for the District Court of Maryland, District6, Montgomery County, since January 20, 2017; Presiding and Coordinating Judge, MentalHealth Court, 2017-2023. As of October 2023, she was designated as the CoordinatingJudge for Behavioral Health... Read More →
AJ

Aliya Jones, M.D. MBA, FAPA, FASAM

Chief Executive Officer, MDH-Clifton T. Perkins Hospital Center
Thursday May 22, 2025 10:15am - 11:00am EDT
Turf Valley-Grand Ballroom

11:00am EDT

Panel discussion: Addressing Aftercare and Long-Term Behavioral Health Needs in the Justice System: Intercepts 4-5
Thursday May 22, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm EDT
This session will offer a multi-faceted view of re-entry efforts, showcasing effective strategies and resources to support the successful reintegration of justice-involved individuals with behavioral health issues into society.

The session will begin with an exploration of the unique needs and considerations for incarcerated individuals with behavioral health issues, particularly regarding discharge and re-entry planning. A focus will be placed on findings from a comprehensive landscape analysis, highlighting ongoing technical assistance efforts and available funding to support behavioral health and re-entry initiatives for justice-impacted individuals. Attention will also be given to a county-level re-entry program that successfully links incarcerated individuals with behavioral health treatment, coordinates appointments, arranges medication-assisted treatment (MAT), and facilitates state care coordination and housing or residential treatment referrals upon release.

Additionally, the session will cover a comprehensive treatment center model that offers a full spectrum of care under one roof, ensuring individuals have access to the treatment and support they need as they transition back into society.





Speakers
BC

Brandi Cahn

Assistant Director Justice Reinvestment Criminal Justice Programs, Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy
avatar for Patricia Tobias

Patricia Tobias

Administrative Director of the Idaho Courts (Ret.), The Leifman Group
Patti Tobias is a passionate and experienced Behavioral Health and Justice Consultant. Since January 1, 2025, Ms. Tobias has been a consultant with The Leifman Group working with states and communities to develop behavioral health and justice solutions.  Ms. Tobias retired in 2024... Read More →
SD

Stephanie D. Brehm, LMSW

Re Entry Coordinator, Allegany County Sheriff's Office, Detention Center
RT

Robin Timme, Psy.D., ABPP, CCHP-A

Senior Expert & Vice President, Falcon Inc.
RE

Renard E. Brooks

Assistant Secretary of Programs, Treatment, and Reentry, Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services
Thursday May 22, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm EDT
Turf Valley-Grand Ballroom

12:15pm EDT

Lunch
Thursday May 22, 2025 12:15pm - 1:15pm EDT
A variety menu served in the Grand Ballroom.
Thursday May 22, 2025 12:15pm - 1:15pm EDT
Turf Valley-Grand Ballroom

1:15pm EDT

Breakout Discussion: Connecting the Dots: Recap
Thursday May 22, 2025 1:15pm - 2:45pm EDT
In this breakout discussion, jurisdictions will identify gaps across intercepts 4-5 and begin developing preliminary strategies to address these gaps. Additionally, building on earlier conversations participants will collaborate to explore targeted solutions and actionable steps to bridge gaps, and ensure comprehensive approaches for improvement at all intercepts 0-5. There will be guided formats to assist jurisdictions in planning for post-Summit meetings, long-range planning and implementation. Emphasis will be placed on establishing mechanisms for tracking progress, securing necessary resources, and fostering interagency coordination to ensure lasting impact.


Thursday May 22, 2025 1:15pm - 2:45pm EDT
Turf Valley-Grand Ballroom, Waverly Room and Belmont Room

2:45pm EDT

Afternoon Break
Thursday May 22, 2025 2:45pm - 3:00pm EDT
Stretch your legs, grab some water and network.
Thursday May 22, 2025 2:45pm - 3:00pm EDT
Turf Valley Resort 2700 Turf Valley Rd, Ellicott City, MD 21042

3:15pm EDT

Reporting Back: Collaborative Solutions Across Jurisdictions
Thursday May 22, 2025 3:15pm - 4:45pm EDT
In this interactive session, each jurisdiction will present their findings and preliminary strategies, followed by an open discussion to explore common themes and potential collaborative solutions. We will focus on identifying key areas of attention, evaluating what currently exists, and determining what jurisdictions aim to work on moving forward. Participants will have the opportunity to review outlines, assessment tools, and preliminary implementation plans. Together, we will explore ways to best support each other in achieving our shared goals.
Speakers
avatar for Marina Sabett

Marina Sabett

Associate Judge/Behavioral Health Coordinating Judge, Maryland Judiciary
MARINA L. SABETT has been an Associate Judge for the District Court of Maryland, District6, Montgomery County, since January 20, 2017; Presiding and Coordinating Judge, MentalHealth Court, 2017-2023. As of October 2023, she was designated as the CoordinatingJudge for Behavioral Health... Read More →
avatar for Steve Leifman

Steve Leifman

Associate Administrative Judge of the Miami-Dade County Court Criminal Division (Ret.), The Leifman Group
Judge Steve Leifman served as the Associate Administrative Judge of the Miami-Dade County Court – Criminal Division from 2000 until his retirement on December 31, 2024.  From 2007 – 2010, Judge Leifman served as Special Advisor on Criminal Justice and Mental Health for the Supreme... Read More →
avatar for Richard Schwermer

Richard Schwermer

Utah State Court Administrator (Ret.), The Leifman Group
Richard Schwermer has been involved in all aspects of court administration for over 35 years. First as a state level trial court administrator, then as a legislative liaison and Assistant State Court Administrator, he retired as the Utah State Court Administrator in 2019.Since that... Read More →
avatar for Patricia Tobias

Patricia Tobias

Administrative Director of the Idaho Courts (Ret.), The Leifman Group
Patti Tobias is a passionate and experienced Behavioral Health and Justice Consultant. Since January 1, 2025, Ms. Tobias has been a consultant with The Leifman Group working with states and communities to develop behavioral health and justice solutions.  Ms. Tobias retired in 2024... Read More →
Thursday May 22, 2025 3:15pm - 4:45pm EDT
Turf Valley-Grand Ballroom

4:45pm EDT

Closing Remarks and Next Steps
Thursday May 22, 2025 4:45pm - 5:00pm EDT
In the closing session Chief Judge Morrissey will summarize the key points and insights shared throughout the Summit. He will outline the next steps for ongoing collaboration and the implementation of strategies, ensuring a clear path forward. These remarks will reinforce the importance of strengthening partnerships and setting the stage for continued progress beyond the Summit.
Speakers
avatar for John Morrissey

John Morrissey

Chief Judge, District Court of Maryland
CHIEF JUDGE MORRISSEY graduated in 1986 with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from James Madison University, and in 1989 earned his Doctorate of Jurisprudence from the University of Baltimore School of Law. While at the University of Baltimore, Judge Morrissey was Editor-in-Chief... Read More →
Thursday May 22, 2025 4:45pm - 5:00pm EDT
Turf Valley-Grand Ballroom
 
Statewide Summit on Behavioral Health: An Opportunity for Collaborative Change
Register to attend
Share Modal

Share this link via

Or copy link

Filter sessions
Apply filters to sessions.