Pathways to Productive and Healthy Workplaces

Navigating Substance Use Harm Reduction and Addiction at Work

November 7th, 11:00am - 12:30pm MT

DR. SALLY SPENCER-THOMAS

Dr. Sally Spencer-Thomas is a clinical psychologist and award-winning mental health advocate, driven by her personal loss of her brother to suicide. As the Co-Founder and President of United Suicide Survivors International, her mission is to amplify the voices of those who have faced mental health challenges. Sally empowers leaders and communities to implement sustainable mental health, addiction recovery, and suicide prevention strategies. She co-authored the National Guidelines for Workplace Suicide Prevention and co-founded Man Therapy. Sally's leadership roles include past Executive Secretary of the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention and board positions with the American Association of Suicidology. Her work spans international consulting and speaking, including a TEDx talk and an address at the White House.

GINA VANDERHAM, MA, CEC, AAC, LMFT, RCC, SAP, CEAP

Gina Vanderham, a distinguished speaker on workplace addiction, brings over 35 years of professional expertise to her role. With a rich background in mental health and addiction, she has developed effective policies and protocols, saving clients significantly in accidents, absenteeism, and lawsuits. She holds a Master’s in Counseling Psychology and numerous certifications:, including CEC, AAC, LMFT, PHSA, CAADC, SAP, CEAP. She is also, and is a registered RCC. As an employee assistance professional and psychotherapist, she has advised thousands on workplace mental health and treated clients in diverse settings. Gina's impactful work includes mandatory DOT assessments, addiction case management, and EMDR therapy. She is also an international speaker and contributing author to best-selling books, making her a vital resource in addiction management. Gina is based in British Columbia, Canada.

  • Are you concerned about the negative consequences of unaddressed substance use challenges and addiction? Worried about the risks of workers overdosing?

  • Do you wonder what impact unmitigated substance use disorders are having on your organization's morale, bottom line, and productivity?

  • Are you looking to foster a more supportive and mentally healthy work environment?

  • Do you want to reduce workplace accidents and increase overall productivity?

  • Do you understand how supporting recovery can transform your workplace culture?

  • Are you ready to improve employee engagement and retention while promoting wellbeing?

  • Do you want to be an 'irresistible' organization?

Workshop Overview

 This online workshop will delve into workplace strategies for creating supportive and healthy work environments that mitigate the consequences of substance use disorders and addiction. 

Learn about harm reduction approaches and how to support people in recovery at work. Gain valuable insights from experts and connect with other professionals dedicated to promoting wellness at work. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your knowledge and skills in fostering productive and healthy workplaces.

Agenda

  • Justification: Why should we focus on harm reduction and addiction recovery at work?

  • Define addiction, explore how substance use disorders impact the workplace, and discuss the concepts of recovery and harm reduction.

  • Explore how workplaces can both help and hinder individuals living with substance use disorders, by identifying blind spots. 

  • The first steps in establishing recovery-supportive workplace strategies. 

Benefits of Addiction Recovery-Supportive Workplace Training

  • Supportive Workplace Culture: Encourages a more inclusive and compassionate workplace, improving morale and job satisfaction.

  • Increased Awareness and Understanding: Helps employees and managers understand addiction and its impact, reducing stigma and fostering empathy.

  • Early Intervention: Educated employees and supervisors can recognize signs of addiction and substance abuse, leading to early help.

  • Reduced Absenteeism and Presenteeism: Retains employees in recovery, reducing turnover costs and increasing engagement.

  • Improved Productivity: Supported employees are more productive and focused, engaging less in risky behaviors.

  • Enhanced Employee Wellbeing: Promotes the wellbeing of all employees, leading to a healthier workforce.

  • Legal and Ethical Compliance: Helps employers comply with laws and regulations related to substance abuse, promoting ethical treatment.

  • Reduced Workplace Accidents: Lessens incidents and safety hazards, creating a safer work environment.

  • Better Mental Health Support: Includes information on mental health, improving support for all employees.

  • Improved Reputation: Enhances company reputation as socially responsible and caring, attracting employees and customers.


A win-win outcome, addiction recovery-supportive workplace training fosters understanding, support, and productivity, benefiting both employers and employees. It’s both good business and the right thing to do.