Join the 2025 Virtual Mental Health Summit Hosted by Boise VA Medical Center
Date: September 17, 2025
Location: Virtual via WebEx
Theme: Mental Health Access
Host: Boise VA Medical Center
Contact: Joshua.Bode@va.gov
September is National Recovery Month, and the Boise VA Medical Center is inviting community members, healthcare professionals, and organizations to participate in its 2025 Virtual Mental Health Summit. This year’s theme—“Mental Health Access”—addresses one of the most critical challenges facing Veterans and their families today.
Purpose of the Summit
The Mental Health Summit serves as a bridge between the VA and community stakeholders, uniting efforts to improve mental health services for Veterans and their families across Idaho and beyond. By fostering collaboration and dialogue, this event aims to:
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Expand access to care
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Raise awareness about recovery resources
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Address the evolving needs of Veterans
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Strengthen VA-community partnerships
Full Agenda
🕣 8:30–9:00 AM – Registration
🕘 9:00–9:30 AM – Welcome: National Recovery and Suicide Prevention Month
Speaker: Dr. Caroll Berndt, Associate Chief of Staff for Behavioral Health, Boise VAMC
🕤 9:30–11:30 AM – Keynote: Accessing Mental Health Services in VA Healthcare
Speaker: Joshua Bode, LCSW, Assistant Chief of Behavioral Health
🍽 11:30–1:00 PM – Lunch & Networking
🕐 1:00–2:00 PM – Managing Chronic Substance Abuse
Speaker: Tom Hogan, LCSW, Social Work Supervisor
🕑 2:00–2:15 PM – Break & Networking
🕝 2:15–3:15 PM – Outpatient Substance Use Disorder Resource Expansion
Speaker: Kirk Stadelmeyer, LCSW, Social Work Supervisor
🕞 3:15–3:30 PM – Closing Remarks & Q&A
Speaker: Dr. Caroll Berndt
How to Attend
This is a free virtual event open to community partners, health professionals, and anyone dedicated to supporting Veteran mental health. The event will be hosted via WebEx.
🔗 WebEx Link:
Email: Joshua.Bode@va.gov for link
📧 RSVP or Questions?
Email: Joshua.Bode@va.gov
Why You Should Attend
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Stay up to date with Veteran mental health services
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Learn from experienced VA social workers and clinicians
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Expand your network with professionals in behavioral health
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Take part in the national conversation on suicide prevention and recovery
Let’s unite for Veteran wellness. Mark your calendar for September 17, 2025—and join us in strengthening access to mental healthcare in our communities.