This event will be conducted in English, with simultaneous interpretation available in Spanish.
Latino communities experience similar rates of behavioral health concerns as other groups, yet access services at lower rates. Variables such as access to culturally responsive care and trained providers limit access for Latinos with behavioral health needs. This webinar explores practical strategies for delivering culturally and linguistically responsive services to Latino communities across health and behavioral health settings. Participants will examine how language access, cultural values, relocation experiences, family dynamics, and social influencers of health impact engagement, diagnosis, and treatment outcomes.
The session highlights approaches for building trust, reducing stigma, and addressing barriers to care, including the use of bilingual services, community partnerships, culturally relevant communication styles, and strengths-based practices. Through case examples and real-world tools, attendees will gain actionable skills to improve outreach, service delivery, and opportunities to access and remain in services for Latino individuals and families.
Objectives:
· Describe key cultural, linguistic, and social factors that influence health and behavioral health outcomes among Latino communities.
· Identify common barriers to care, including language access challenges, stigma, and relocation-related stressors.
· Apply culturally responsive communication strategies to strengthen trust, engagement, and therapeutic relationships with Latino individuals and families.
· Develop practical steps to adapt programs, outreach, and clinical practices to better meet the needs of Latino populations.
GUEST SPEAKER:
Michelle Evans DSW, MBA, LCSW
Michelle Evans, DSW, MBA, LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a career dedicated to supporting individuals and families impacted by mental illness and addiction, particularly within the Hispanic/Latino community. She currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Elgin Mental Health Center, a state forensic psychiatric hospital in Elgin, Illinois. She has also worked as a bilingual forensic evaluator and treatment provider.
In her private practice at Nickerson & Associates, PC, Dr. Evans specializes in evaluating and treating adolescents and adults facing mental health, substance and sex addictions. Her clinical work addresses the complex intersection of addiction, trauma, and mental health, helping clients rebuild their lives and relationships.
Dr. Evans is also an educator. She teaches social work and mental health courses at Aurora University and Indiana Wesleyan University. A passionate advocate for parity, justice, and culturally responsive care; she is committed to advancing awareness, compassion, and effective services for marginalized and underserved populations. Her career exemplifies a dedication to person-centered, culturally grounded approaches in addressing addiction and mental health challenges.