Dr. Topsy Staten Invited to Present “The Evolution of ChooseWell Communities” at Statewide Psychiatric Nursing Conference

Dr. Topsy Staten was honored to be invited as a featured presenter at the annual conference of the Kentucky Chapter of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association (APNA) at the historic Campbell House in Lexington, KY. The conference brought together psychiatric-mental health nurses from across the state, with this year’s focus centered on Substance Use Disorders—a timely and urgent topic for healthcare professionals serving on the front lines of behavioral health care.

Dr. Staten’s presentation, titled “The Evolution of ChooseWell Communities,” highlighted the critical role of long-term, community-based support for families recovering from substance use disorders. She emphasized that while treatment is a vital first step, true and lasting recovery often depends on what comes next—what ChooseWell calls building recovery capital: safe and stable housing, meaningful employment, effective parenting, and a network of support.

ChooseWell’s model, designed specifically for parents in early recovery with at least one child under the age of five, has become a beacon of hope and a catalyst for transformation. Dr. Staten shared powerful stories and outcome data that illustrate the real difference ChooseWell is making in the lives of families across Kentucky.

The presentation not only affirmed the value of ChooseWell’s work but also reinforced the importance of strong community partnerships with behavioral health professionals, including the psychiatric nurses in attendance.

By bringing ChooseWell’s story to the forefront of this important gathering, Dr. Staten helped spread the message that recovery doesn’t end at discharge—it grows stronger when individuals and families are supported in rebuilding their lives with dignity, stability, and purpose.