News

Mental health conference set for March 23

By Lightning Reports, Published: March 4, 2026

As behavioral health needs continue to grow across Western North Carolina, the Henderson County Department of Public Health will host the 2026 Behavioral Health Conference from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday, March 23, at Blue Ridge Community College.

In partnership with the Henderson County Behavioral Health Coalition, the program will bring together state leaders, regional experts and frontline professionals to strengthen the region’s system of care.

Following last year’s sold-out event, the conference returns with expanded capacity and welcomes more than 400 attendees from across Western North Carolina and beyond. This year’s event features three keynote presentations, more than 30 speakers and over 35 exhibitors representing universities, healthcare systems, nonprofits, state leadership and community-based organizations.
The conference brings professionals and community members together for a day of learning and collaboration. Presentations and breakout sessions will address emerging trends, evidence-informed practices, workforce sustainability, system transformation, and innovative community partnerships.
Keynote speakers include:

• Philip Cooper, CCHW, CPSS, founder of Operation Gateway, who brings a systems perspective on behavioral health and justice involvement.
• Kelly Crosbie, MSW, LCSW, director of the North Carolina Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Use Services, who will provide statewide updates and discuss the future of behavioral health reform in North Carolina.
• Sarah Merritt Ryan, MS, CPSS, mental health advocate and speaker, whose keynote will focus on resilience, recovery, and the long-term path toward healing for individuals living with serious mental illness.

Singer-songwriter Brian Hilligoss will emcee the event, using music and storytelling to create energy and connection across sessions.
 “This conference reflects the strength and commitment of our region,” said Melissa Witmeier, Public Health Strategist for Behavioral Health at the Henderson County Department of Public Health and founder of the conference. “We are bringing together leaders, clinicians, educators, advocates and individuals with lived experience to strengthen behavioral health across Western North Carolina. It will be a day of meaningful learning, authentic collaboration and even some fun.”
The conference is open to behavioral health professionals, healthcare providers, educators, nonprofit leaders, policymakers, first responders, students, peers and community members invested in improving behavioral health outcomes. For more information, visitwww.hendersoncountync.gov/bhc.

Cost is $50 for registration only, $75 with continuing education processing. Click here to register..