11th Annual South Florida Behavioral Health Conference

United Way Broward’s Coalition on Behavioral Health & Drug Prevention, in collaboration with the Broward Behavioral Health Coalition (BBHC) and Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF), will host the 11th Annual South Florida Behavioral Health Conference: The Power of Prevention on Wednesday, May 27 and Thursday, May 28 at The Diplomat Beach Resort in Hollywood.

· The Annual two-day Conference serves as a platform for behavioral and mental health professionals to learn, network and discuss issues related to behavioral health practices, policies, and research.

· The Conference will feature renowned subject matter experts ranging from psychologists, behavioral health clinicians, professors, trauma and grief specialists, and prevention specialists who will provide crucial continuing education seminars, workshops, and keynote sessions.

· Keynote Speakers include:
o Dr. Kelly Posner Gerstenhaber, a Professor of Psychiatry and one of the 20 most influential scientists at Columbia University. She is the founder of The Columbia Protocol, also known as the Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS). Her work leading to suicide reduction across the nation and globally has become the gold standard for suicide monitoring.
o Ryan Jenkins, a Wall Street Journal bestselling author, leadership futurist, and globally recognized expert on team connection and generational differences, helping organizations build more engaged and connected teams.
o Allan Kehler, a leading voice in mental health, is an addictions counselor, clinical case manager, instructor, and best-selling author who integrates lived experience with clinical expertise to deliver impactful insights.
o Rick Griffin, a neuroscience educator and Founder of the Neuro Leadership Academy, helping professionals understand behavior through brain science and apply it to leadership and human connection.

· Participants will have the opportunity to learn from these thought leaders, network with industry peers, and discuss issues related to research, policy and practice.
· Licensed Clinicians and Certified Professionals can earn CEU credits.
· Master of Ceremonies will be CEO and Founder of Vanessa James Media Vanessa James.

· The Conference Tracks will highlight emerging trends and groundbreaking initiatives that are influencing the future of behavioral health:
o Advancing the Future of Behavioral Health Care
o Well-Being, Resilience & Self Care in Practice
o Thriving Professionals: Workforce Growth & Development
o Across the Lifespan: Child, Youth & Family Systems Mental Health
o Faith Rooted, Community Centered Care
o Trauma Informed & Suicide Safe Systems
o Power of Partnership: Integrated Care & Cross Sector Collaboration
o Recovery, Healing & Lived Experience

Event sponsors include Broward Behavioral Health Coalition, Florida Department of Children and Families, Baptist Health South Florida, UKG, and Memorial Healthcare System.

DETAILS : Extended Early Bird Pricing: $250
Registration closes May 20, 2026

Breakfast, lunch, and complimentary parking are all included with registration. For more information and to register, please visit: www.unitedwaybroward.org/BHC2026.

For more information and sponsorship opportunities, please contact Maria Hernandez at conference@UnitedWayBroward.org or 954.462.4850.