On Saturday, February 1, 2020, NCAPP members were among the 400 mental health service providers, companies, and non-profits attending the

42nd annual Legislative Breakfast on Mental Health

at the UNC Friday Center 

Keynote speakers, including Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, Dr. Mandy Cohen, spoke to psychologists, counselors, social workers, therapists. The gathering was emceed by Senator Mike Woodard and Representative Sydney Batch. Mental health service providers were given the opportunity to mingle with legislators, connect with organizations, and join together to emphasize the importance of legislative action to increase mental health care accessibility and services for the citizenry of North Carolina. Three local government officials shared their personal stories as to how mental health issues have impacted them and their families. A panel of legislators concluded the event whereby attendees could ask difficult questions regarding Medicaid expansion, budget issues/plans, etc.

A very special thank you to Niosoty Baptista-Paparella, Ana Maria Hernandez, Joan Lester, and Tara Luellen for attending and making all the arrangements for NCAPP to be so well represented.