Ramsey County Children's Mental Health Collaborative
Working across systems and with families to support children's mental health.
Call or Text (800) 565-2575
Professional Development and Advisory Committee
Contact Wendy Goodman for more information: wendy@rccmhc.org (800) 565-2575
This is an open meeting. ALL are welcome!
The Professional Development and Advisory Committee (PDAC) guides and informs the work of the RCCMHC by contributing the perspective and expertise of direct service professionals.
The Committee also functions as a forum that supports, strengthens and broadens our community workforce to meet the complex needs of youth and families.
Meeting Schedule and Training Topics
We meet on 3rd Thursdays (3:00 to 5:00)
RCCMHC hosts FREE trainings during each committee meetings. Each meeting has a 1.5-hour training and Q&A discussion as well as 30 min RCCMHC committee business. CEUs are usually available.
Download a 2026-2027 flyer with dates, topics and QR code to join. Or scroll below to read detailed descriptions and registration information.
Committee Leadership and Members
PDAC is guided by our mental health and basic needs expert Co-Chairs and Advisor who also serve on the RCCMHC Governing Board.
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Katy Armendariz – CEO, Roots Wellness Center
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Sonia Gass – CEO, CAP-RW
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Dr. Richard Oni (Past Chair and Ongoing Advisor) – CEO, Progressive Individual Resources
Committee members
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The Committee has open membership- you are welcome to join us!
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The Committee will include professionals from diverse fields, disciplines, and systems and will reflect the community we serve. RCCMHC’s expanded concept of the workforce includes mental health professionals such as clinical and non-clinical specialized care professionals and healers; but it also includes non-mental health experts such as resource navigators, case managers, educators, faith leaders, and others who support youth and families with complex needs.
Committee Goals
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identify needs and recommend interventions to address service gaps and build workforce capacity.
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provide feedback on collaborative impact and program outcomes.
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build relationships and network to mobilize and leverage resources.
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host cross-disciplinary trainings, expert panels, and workshops to promote evidence-based and community-defined interventions as well as culturally responsive or emerging approaches.
Registration is not required but if you RSVP, you will receive automatic email reminders and an option to add individual meetings to your calendar.
Upcoming Events: September to June
Nov 19, 2026, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PMA Zoom Link button is on the PDAC web pageFree training with a 2 CE certificate! Explore upcoming MA/Medicaid changes, housing resources, and practical supports for families waiting for services. Community experts will share strategies for navigating barriers and coordinating care. See full description below.
Dec 17, 2026, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PMA Zoom Link button is on the PDAC web pageFree training with a 2 CE certificate! Take time to restore and reconnect. Explore secondary traumatic stress, practical wellness activities, healthy boundaries, and ways colleagues and organizations can support a healthier workforce. See full description below.
Jan 21, 2027, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PMA Zoom Link button is on the PDAC web pageFree training with a 2 CE certificate! Explore the connections between school engagement, attendance, and mental health. Learn practical ways to build trust, strengthen belonging, and coordinate support with schools, families, and community providers. See full description below.
Feb 18, 2027, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PMA Zoom Link button is on the PDAC web pageFree training with a 2 CE certificate! Explore overlapping developmental, learning, and mental health needs. Learn about evaluations, disability services, MnCHOICES, and early planning for adult services, plus practical supports while families wait. See full description below.
Mar 18, 2027, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PMA Zoom Link button is on the PDAC web pageFree training with a 2 CE certificate! Learn how to navigate mental health, substance use, and safety crises. Community experts will discuss crisis response, intensive services, caregiver support, and follow-through after a crisis. See full description below.
Apr 15, 2027, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PMA Zoom Link button is on the PDAC web pageFree training with a 2 CE certificate! Discover practical ways to help LGBTQ+ youth thrive. Community experts will explore strengths, affirming relationships, family connections, and local resources that build trust, belonging, and hope. See full description below.
Jun 17, 2027, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PMA Zoom Link button is on the PDAC web pageFree training with a 2 CE certificate! Examine research on sleep, movement, nutrition, the gut-brain connection, joy, and belonging. Explore whole-person approaches that complement treatment, distinguishing established findings from emerging research. See full description below.
How Can We Help?
Call or Text 800-565-2575