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Season 6: Wisdom in Practice: Insights from Mental Health Leaders

Season 6 of CASAT Conversations features in-depth interviews with experienced professionals from diverse fields, including mental health, addiction treatment, business, and sociology. Drawing on decades of expertise, each guest shares key insights from their careers, lessons learned along the way, and practical advice for future generations of professionals. This season is designed to provide valuable guidance and inspiration for those entering the field, navigating career challenges, or seeking renewed purpose in their work. Explore these conversations to gain wisdom and perspective from leaders who have dedicated their lives to making a meaningful impact.

Host: Heather Haslem

S6 E1: Unlocking Transformation: David Mee-Lee’s Wisdom on Behavior Change and Person-Centered Care

In this episode of CASAT Conversations, we are honored to welcome Dr. David Mee–Lee, a psychiatrist and addiction specialist whose decades-long career has been dedicated to bridging the mental health and addiction treatment fields. Known for his innovative approach to person-centered care, Dr. Mee–Lee has worked tirelessly to dismantle stigma, foster compassionate relationships, and create healthcare systems that focus on the individual. His expertise in facilitating behavior change and treating co-occurring disorders has influenced the development of addiction treatment units and shaped managed care systems serving millions.

S6 E2: Lessons in Leadership – Nancy Roget on Workforce Development and the Future of Behavioral Health

In this episode of CASAT Conversations, we are honored to welcome Nancy Roget, Executive Director of CASAT, whose decades-long career has been dedicated to advancing substance use and mental health services. Join us for an inspiring conversation about leadership, innovation, and the enduring commitment to improving lives through behavioral health services.

S6 E3: Navigating Challenges and Inspiring Change: Agata Gawronski’s Career in Behavioral Health

In this episode of CASAT Conversations, we’re joined by Agata Gawronski, Executive Director of the State of Nevada Board of Examiners for Alcohol, Drug, and Gambling Counselors. Originally from Poland, Agata’s journey into the field of substance use and problem gambling began after earning her master’s degree in social work and immigrating to the United States. She shares the experiences that shaped her career, from her early days as a substance use disorder counselor to her 14 years of leadership at the State of Nevada licensing board.

S6 E4: Advocacy, Treatment, and Education: Breaking Barriers in Problem Gambling with Denise Quirk

In this episode of CASAT Conversations, we welcome Denise Quirk, a seasoned addiction counselor, Marriage and Family Therapist, and nationally recognized advocate in the field of problem gambling. With over three decades of experience, Denise has played a pivotal role in shaping treatment, education, and policy for those affected by gambling disorder. From founding Red Hawk Counseling to serving as the CEO and Clinical Director of the Reno Problem Gambling Center, she has dedicated her career to ensuring individuals and families receive the support they need.

S6 E5: It’s Not About Me, It’s About Us: Advancing Mental Health Through Collaboration and Learning

In this episode of CASAT Conversations, we welcome Mark Disselkoen, a seasoned Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) with over three decades of experience in the field of substance use and mental health treatment. As a Senior Project Manager at the Center for the Application of Substance Abuse Technologies (CASAT) at the University of Nevada, Reno, Mark oversees the CCBHC project, certification efforts, and several key training and technical assistance initiatives across Nevada. Throughout his career, he has been deeply committed to improving clinical practice, expanding access to integrated care, and advancing the professional development of clinicians.

S6 E6: When the Heart Can’t Hold It All: A Conversation with Beverly Kyer on Compassion Fatigue

In this episode of CASAT Conversations, we sit down with Beverly Kyer—best-selling author, clinical social worker, and nationally recognized speaker on compassion fatigue. With more than three decades of experience in trauma recovery and emotional well-being, Beverly has dedicated her life to supporting those who serve others, particularly professionals working in high-stress environments.

S6 E7: Own Up and Show Up: Dr. Steven C. Hayes on Mental Resilience, Acceptance, and the Future of Psychotherapy

In this episode of CASAT Conversations, we are honored to welcome Dr. Steven C. Hayes, a pioneering clinical psychologist and the originator of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). With decades of groundbreaking work that has transformed the field of psychotherapy, Dr. Hayes brings a deep understanding of how we build resilience, move through suffering, and live with purpose.

S6 E8: We Don’t Walk Alone: Growth, Connection, and the Lifelong Journey of Becoming

In this episode of CASAT Conversations, we welcome Dr. Meri Shadley, a Marriage and Family Therapist, educator, and emeritus faculty member at the University of Nevada, Reno. With over 40 years of experience in addiction recovery and family systems work, Dr. Shadley reflects on what it means to grow—both as a human and a helper.

S6 E9: No Throwaway Clients: A Conversation with Saul Singer

In this episode of CASAT Conversations, we are honored to welcome Saul, a seasoned Marriage and Family Therapist and Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor with more than five decades of experience working at the intersection of addiction, mental health, and family systems.

S6 E10: The Heart of the Work: Laughter, Empowerment, and Clinical Wisdom with Mary Dunn, LCSW

In this episode of CASAT Conversations, we are honored to welcome Mary Dunn, a retired Licensed Clinical Social Worker whose decades-long career has been grounded in compassion, cultural awareness, and the power of human connection. Mary’s professional path began in an unexpected place—the casinos of Lake Tahoe—where her early experiences observing human behavior planted the seeds for a lifelong career in service.

S6 E11: Healing in Relationship: Co-Regulation, Safety, and the Nervous System with Dr. Arielle Schwartz

In this episode of CASAT Conversations, we are honored to welcome Dr. Arielle Schwartz, a clinical psychologist, somatic psychotherapist, and internationally recognized teacher whose work integrates the science of the nervous system with the art of embodied healing.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only. Any advice offered on the podcast is an educational context and is not intended as direct medical advice, nor as a replacement for it. If you are experiencing a medical or life emergency, please call 911. If you are experiencing a crisis, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at (800) 273 – 8255.  If you are experiencing stress, and would like professional help please contact your insurance company to identify a therapist in your area or contact the organization you work for and ask about an employee assistance program.

This podcast has been brought to you by the CASAT Podcast Network located within the Center for the Application of Substance Abuse Technologies at the University of Nevada, Reno. For more podcast information and resources visit casat.org/podcasts/.

Con SheeanCASAT Conversations Season 6 Episode 5 cover image; a conversation with Dr. David Mee-Lee - Unlocking TransformationL David Mee-Lee's Wisdom on Behavior Change and Person-Centered Care