Join Us for the 2025 VitAL Annual Conference
Alabamians are leading the way in building a better future for behavioral health. The VitAL Annual Conference brings together professionals, advocates, and changemakers from across the state to share ideas, inspire action, and strengthen our collective impact. This year’s event will feature dynamic keynote speakers, practical workshops, and opportunities to connect with others who are passionate about improving mental health, substance use, and trauma-related outcomes. Don’t miss this chance to gain new tools, fresh insights, and renewed energy for your work.
Register below and be part of the movement for a stronger, healthier Alabama.
Bryant Conference Center Tuscaloosa, AL
August 21-22, 2025
-
Keynote Speakers
Brandon Novak was a young pro skateboarder, discovered by Tony Hawk, who rose to fame on the hit MTV shows Viva la Bam and Jackass.
From an early age, growing up in Baltimore with a father who used drugs, he learned the difficult reality and impact of addiction on families. As a teen, he developed an addiction to heroin, a battle he fought for 20 years throughout overdoses, struggles with mental health, homelessness, numerous treatment programs, and incarceration. During that time, he wrote the addiction memoir, Dreamseller, which went on to become a best seller on Amazon and was turned into a documentary. Finally, on May 25, 2015, Novak found his pathway to recovery. Since then, he has made incredible strides, showing that recovery and wellness are possible.Brandon truly embodies someone who can turn their life around. In recovery, he has been active as an author, speaker, and advocate. He penned The Brandon Novak Chronicles in 2018, a graphic novel unraveling the adventures of him and his crew from reality TV. In 2020, he released a second memoir called The Streets of Baltimore, which takes a deeper look into his upbringing and his journey with addiction. He is the proud co-owner of 7 sober living homes, known as Novak’s House, which provides a safe, structured environment for young men to rebuild their lives in recovery. Brandon is also the co-founder and president of the Redemption Addiction Treatment Center in Delaware. On top of all that, he is a Certified Intervention Professional who helps countless families by connecting people to treatment options that work for them. Novak uses his voice and his platform to make a difference. He travels the country as a professional speaker for a variety of events and programs—including telling his story for treatment centers, at the DEA’s Youth Summit events, and as the keynote speaker for numerous other organizations. He regularly visits schools to share his message, bringing awareness, prevention, and education to youth across the nation. In addition, he uses news interviews, podcast appearances, and his social media platforms to spread hope, to be a power of example, and to encourage others to recover from addiction. In May of 2024, Brandon celebrated 9 years in recovery and nearly 6 years tobacco free. During his journey of recovery, he has been hard at work helping others. Brandon Novak made it his life’s mission to help anyone struggling with addiction, and in doing so, he has turned his pain into purpose. He also rediscovered his first true love—skateboarding—and values spending quality time with his family and his cats.Darryl Strawberry is described as a legend by many who have been dazzled by the dynamics of his game, the power he possessed at the plate and the story of redemption that continues to bring hope to so many lives.
He has earned the legendary nicknames and phrases of one of the most feared homerun hitters in the game of baseball, Straw’s Sweet Swing, Strawberry’s Field Forever and The Legendary Straw Man! Today, Darryl’s purpose and passion is serving the Lord Jesus Christ by speaking a message of hope and helping others transform their lives through the power of the gospel. “I was once very lost and tormented but now I am found and free in Christ Jesus. I want everyone to experience the saving and transforming power of Jesus Christ.” – Darryl Strawberry
-
2021: New Book Release, “Turn Your Season Around”, Zondervan Publications.
-
2017: New Book Release, “Don’t Give Up on Me”, Shedding Light on Addiction with Darryl Strawberry.
-
2016: Appointed as an Advisory Board Member of SAMSHA (Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration)
-
2014: New Book Release, “The Imperfect Marriage”, Help for Those Who Think It’s Over, with wife Tracy Strawberry, Simon and Schuster Publications.
-
2011: Co-Founded Strawberry Ministries www.strawberryministries.org
-
2010: Donald Trump’s Celebrity Apprentice
-
2009: New York Times Best Selling Author: Straw Finding My Way, Harper Collins Publications.
-
4 World Series Titles: New York Mets 1986, New York Yankees 1996, 1998, 1999
-
8 Time National League All-Star: 1984–1991
-
National League Homerun Leader (1988)
-
1983 National League Rookie of the Year: New York Mets
-
1983 Topps All Star Rookie of the Year
-
2 Time NL Silver Slugger Award: 1988, National League Slugging Percentage Leader: 1988
-
-
Pricing and Attendance Options – Now Open!
In person registration Virtual registration
- Full Two-Day Conference – $150, includes breakfast/lunch both days
- One Day Conference – $80, includes breakfast/lunch for that day
- Student Fee (full conference only) – $50, includes breakfast/lunch both days
- Group discount – 5 or more registering together, $140 per person (full conference)
-
Sponsorship Opportunities – Now Open!
Exhibit and Sponsorship registration
$250- Standard exhibit booth: includes booth, and one booth attendee$500- Break sponsor: includes 1 booth, and 1 booth attendee, and recognition at conference for sponsoring breaks$1,000- Breakfast Sponsor:includes 1 booth, 1 booth attendee, and recognition at conference for sponsoring breakfast (2 available)$2,500- Lunch Sponsor: includes 1 booth, 1 booth attendee, and recognition at conference for sponsoring lunch (2 available)
-
Conference Tracks
Bridging Justice and Behavioral HealthThis track explores innovative strategies and collaborations to address the intersection of behavioral health and the criminal justice system. We seek proposals that highlight evidence-based approaches, policy reforms, and programs designed to improve outcomes for individuals with behavioral health challenges who intersect with law enforcement, courts, and corrections. Topics may include diversion programs, trauma-informed care within justice settings, reentry strategies, and initiatives that reduce recidivism and promote recovery. Submissions that emphasize cross-sector partnerships and community-driven solutions are highly encouraged.Supporting the Next Generation: Behavioral Health for AdolescentsThis track focuses on advancing behavioral health strategies that address the unique needs of adolescents. We invite proposals that explore innovative approaches to mental health and substance use prevention, intervention, and treatment for youth. Emphasis will be placed on programs that foster resilience, address social determinants of health, and leverage school, family, and community partnerships to promote well-being. Proposals highlighting culturally responsive practices, emerging technologies, and peer-driven models are encouraged, as are those addressing the impact of trauma, social media, and the COVID-19 pandemic on adolescent mental health.Behavioral Health Integration in Schools: Challenges and SolutionsThis track focuses on the integration of behavioral health services within educational settings to address the mental health and well-being of students. We invite proposals that examine successful models, innovative practices, and collaborative approaches to embedding behavioral health resources in schools. Emphasis will be placed on overcoming barriers such as funding, stigma, and resource limitations. Proposals addressing culturally responsive practices, trauma-informed care, and strategies for engaging educators, families, and community partners are highly encouraged.Crisis to Care: Behavioral Health Solutions for First RespondersThis track highlights the critical role of behavioral health in supporting first responders who operate on the frontlines of crises. We seek proposals that explore strategies to address the mental health challenges faced by law enforcement, firefighters, paramedics, and other first responders. Topics may include trauma-informed care, stress management, peer support programs, and innovative training models that equip first responders to handle behavioral health crises in their communities. Proposals that focus on resilience-building, reducing stigma, and creating systemic solutions to enhance the well-being of first responders are highly encouraged.Advancing Behavioral Health Across CommunitiesThis track focuses on innovative strategies to improve behavioral health outcomes at the community level. We invite proposals that highlight community-driven initiatives, policy changes, and collaborative models that enhance access to mental health and substance use services, particularly in underserved populations. Proposals should explore ways to build community resilience, reduce stigma, and address social determinants of health, with a focus on practical, sustainable solutions. Emphasis is also placed on the role of community organizations, public health systems, and cross-sector partnerships in advancing behavioral health.Ethical Considerations in Behavioral Health: Navigating Challenges and Best PracticesThis track focuses on the ethical challenges and considerations in the delivery of behavioral health services. We invite proposals that explore the complex ethical dilemmas faced by practitioners, policymakers, and organizations in the behavioral health field. Topics may include confidentiality, informed consent, the use of technology in behavioral health, balancing patient autonomy with clinical judgment, and addressing ethical concerns in crisis situations. Proposals should address best practices for ensuring ethical decision-making, maintaining professional integrity, and promoting trust in the provider-patient relationship. Submissions that highlight case studies, policy implications, and frameworks for ethical practice are encouraged.
-
Hotel Capstone Room Block Booking Information
Room block linkBLOCK NAME: 2025 VitAL Conference AttendeesBLOCK DATES: August 20th – August 22nd, 2025LAST DAY TO BOOK IN BLOCK: July 20th, 2025Traditional Room Rate- $139How to use the link:
-
Click the link in the blue box below
- Choose your date of arrival by clicking on “check-in” and departure in “check-out”; select “search”
- Select the room type you prefer by clicking on “Show Rooms,” and it will drop down your available options
- Select “Book Now” for the room that fits your needs
- Complete your reservation by entering all requested information and click “Continue”; you will receive a confirmation number upon completion.
-
NOTE — Only the dates above and room types contracted are available at the contracted rate. Rooms requested outside of your block dates or different room types are based on availability and at the prevailing rate.
-
Prefer to book by phone:- Rooms in the block can be booked by calling 205-752-3200.
- The Agent will ask for an email address, so that we may email your confirmation letter. They will also be able to provide the confirmation number for you over the phone.
- Please be prepared with your payment method as it will be required to make a reservation over the phone.
-
-
Cancellations and Refunds
A cancellation charge of 100% of the registration fee will be assessed on cancellations occurring within seven (7) days of the start of this session. Any changes to the session registration type (example: in-person to virtual, or virtual to in-person) within seven (7) calendar days of program will be assessed a $25.00 administrative fee. Refunds will not be granted after the program has begun. The University of Alabama reserves the right to cancel, postpone or combine class sections, to limit registration or to change instructors. To cancel your registration, contact the Registration Services department at 205-348-3000 or registration_services@ua.edu. A copy of the OTIDE Cancellation Policy can be found online through UA Compliance Bridge.
-
VitAL Annual Conference Partners
-
VitAL Annual Conference Sponsors
Lunch Sponsor:
Breakfast Sponsor:
Children’s of Alabama PATHS (Pediatric Access to Telemental Health Services)
Children’s of Alabama PIRC (Psychiatric Intake Response Center)
Break Sponsors:
Alabama Rural Health Association
Crisis Center Birmingham
DCH Health System
Thriveway
Standard Sponsors:
ACRM Association of Christian Recovery Ministries
Alabama Alliance for Recovery Residences
Alabama Fire College
Alabama Partnership for Children
ALL Kids
Auburn University Harrison College of Pharmacy
BCBSAL
Bradford at Warrior
Genesis Counseling & Consulting Services
Gulfport Behavioral Health System
Inceptioncare Counseling LLC
Kolbe Detox
People Engaged In Recovery (P.E.I.R)
ROSS – Recovery Organization of Support Specialist
The Bridge Inc
Troy Regional Medical Center
Will Bright Foundation
-
Continuing Education
Credit Designation Statements:
ASBSWE: The University of Alabama is an approved provider of continuing education by the Alabama State Board of Social Work Examiners (Provider #0290). This training offers social workers 11 contact hours
ABN: The University of Alabama is an approved provider of continuing education by the Alabama Board of Nursing (Provider #ABNPO222). This training offers nurses up to 11 contact hours.
NBCC: The University of Alabama has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider. ACEP No. 7285. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. The University of Alabama is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
NCHEC: This training is sponsored by VitAL, a designated provider of continuing education contact hours (CECH) in health education by the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing, Inc. This program is designated for Certified Health Education Specialists (CHES®) and/or Master Certified Health Education Specialists (MCHES®) to receive up to 11 total Category I contact education contact hours. Maximum advanced-level continuing education hours available are 4.50. Continuing Competency credits available are 0. Provider ID# 1154505.
Law Enforcement & Pardons and Parole: If approved by your agency head, this training will provide 11 APOST (Alabama Peace Officers Standards & Training Commission) credits
CRSS: This training has been approved for 11 continuing education credit hours for Certified Recovery Support Specialists.
Educators: PowerSchool credits pending approval.