The Colorado Division of Behavioral Health, Janet Wood, Colorado NASMHPD Commissioner, the National Association of Statewide Mental Health Program Directors, Behavioral HealthCare, Inc and RISE University are very proud to present a day with world-renowned peer artist, consumer movement founder and trauma informed expert, Gayle Bluebird! Gayle will be presenting her highly interactive presentation, Healing Through the Arts, in the morning and then we will all participate in the national peer art project, Pillows of Unrest- our heads rest on our pillows all night- what would they say if they could speak? We will have pillowcases and tons of art supplies for all the participants, and our pillowcases will join hundreds around the nation on electronic display. This is a peer-only event, and is free and open to all in Colorado. Reduced-rated lodging is available for those who may need it. Consumer art groups in particular are invited to attend. Encourage people to register early, as this event will fill up fast!

Healing Through the Arts & The Pillows of Unrest with Gayle Bluebird
March 10, 2010, 10:00 AM- 4:00 PM

The Rainbow Center
2160 E. 88th Avenue
Thornton, Colorado 80229
Call 720.490.4455 and follow the prompts to register. Registration is required for this event.

The NAMI Provider Education Program was designed to help line staff at public agencies learn this new approach by attending a 30-hour course. In 10 weeks, staff are given basic classes in diagnosis, brain research and medications, plus specific sessions on how to work with clients and families in a collaborative manner. The primary knowledge base of the course is experience of consumers and family members relating to all aspects of a serious brain disorder; the purpose of the course is to help providers “see our lives” from the inside so that effective, equitable partnerships can guide the treatment process.

Space Limited. Register Now By Calling:
(719) 633-4601 Ext. 123

Where: Springs Rescue Mission
5 West Las Vegas
Colorado Springs CO 80905

Organized by : NAMI and the
El Paso County Co-Occurring Collaborative

What: NAMI-CS Annual Breakfast Meeting
Where: Clarion Hotel, 314 W. Bijou (I-25 & Bijou)
When: April 24, 2010, 10:00 a.m.
Guest Speaker: Award Winning Author Ann Kochenberger

Ann Kochenberger is the award winning author of Out of Focus…Again, a memoir about Ann’s struggle with bipolar disorder and her difficult journey to recovery. It’s a story of hope and healing and the important role her family played in her recovery. Says Professor of Psychology, Frank J. Landry, “The book’s stunning description of the reality of depression is one of the most compelling I have encountered.”

Both Ann and her husband, Gary, will speak about Coping with Bi-Polar disorder and the Important Role of Family.

• National Best Book 2009 Awards, Finalist , Health: Psychology/ Mental Health, October 20, 2009
• National INDIE 2009 Excellence Awards, Finalist, Memoir, May 9, 2009
• EVVY Award, Colorado Independent Publishers Association, Honorable Mention Self-Help, March 28, 2009
• EVVY Award, Colorado Independent Writers Association, 2nd Place, Inspirational, March 28, 2009