The colliding challenges of the COVID-19 Pandemic and national crises are placing increasing demands on the behavioral health industry, families, and communities across the country. These national crises include increasing unemployment, reductions in income, food hardships, and homelessness just to name a few. They have required healthcare delivery systems and providers to implement new, innovative strategies for connecting with those in need and other stakeholders delivering care. As we observe and take action during National Suicide Prevention Month in September, this session will present ideas for spreading awareness, expanding the national dialogue about mental health, and strategies for connecting with communities, schools, and other partners.
This webinar will:
- Advance strategies to engage stakeholders to improve suicide care as the pandemic continues to evolve
- Discuss the protective factors that can help prevent suicide with an emphasis on increasing social connectedness and support in a variety of settings
- Share specific strategies for promoting staff & stakeholder self-care, community outreach, and collaborative partnerships
About the Speakers
Karen E. Johnson, MSW
Senior Vice President, Chief Clinical Officer
Behavioral Health Division
As Senior Vice President and Chief Clinical Officer for the Behavioral Health Division of Universal Health Services, Karen Johnson is responsible for the management and oversight of clinical operations and regulatory practices for the company’s approximately 200 behavioral health facilities across the United States and Puerto Rico. She interfaces with accrediting organizations and leads the clinical staff in the development and implementation of best practices to ensure that quality and safety, including outcomes measurement, are primary initiatives in each organization.
Ms. Johnson represents the company on the Health Systems Corporate Liaison group with The Joint Commission and the Quality Committee of the National Association of Behavioral Healthcare (NABH). She serves on the Executive Committee of the Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention leading the implementation of Zero Suicide in UHS facilities while also serving on the Transforming Health Systems component of the Alliance. Ms. Johnson is a frequent speaker on behavioral health topics on various industry platforms.
Ms. Johnson has held corporate-level leadership positions in Clinical Services since 1999. Prior to that, she served as hospital administrator in freestanding psychiatric facilities in Chicago.
Ms. Johnson holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Therapy from the University of Wisconsin and a Master’s of Social Work from Loyola University of Chicago.
Carey E. Carlock, MA
Clinical Consultant,
Behavioral Health Division
Carey E. Carlock is a Clinical Consultant for UHS specializing in Trauma Informed Care implementation. Carey was a CEO for over 20 years prior to shifting her focus to sharing TIC and Zero Suicide initiatives for leadership teams and systems. Carey obtained her Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Boston College and is a passionate advocate for both those delivering, and those receiving, our care. She is also committed to reducing stigma in our communities and serves on the Board of NAMI Metro Suburban and the Leadership Council for The Kennedy Forum of Illinois.
Michael R. Lyons, MS
Vice President, Specialty Education
Behavioral Health Division
Mike Lyons is the Vice President of Specialty Education for the Behavioral Health Division of Universal Health Services. He is responsible for implementing UHS’ Best in Class Academic Accountability System throughout the organizations network of academic programs in acute, PHP, residential and day school settings. Additionally, he champions education legislation at the state and federal levels to insure that children and adolescents with mental illness receive an equitable and quality educational experience. Mike currently serves on the Youth Services Committee of NABH.
