[photo credit: Eventbrite]
More than 13 workshops will unfold across two breakout sessions from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., addressing diverse populations from military veterans to youth with intellectual disabilities. The programming reflects the complex nature of suicide prevention work in LA County, where nearly 900 residents died by suicide in 2022.
Ana Amador and Jeniffer Penalber will lead trauma-informed strategies that transform pain into collective power, while Kennia Reyes and Israel Vargas explore the PERMA+ model for instilling hope in individuals with developmental disabilities. Derek Hsieh and Ven Pyinnyardhikalinkara will guide participants through Buddhist and psychological approaches to intervention.
First responders will examine “the invisible wounds of heroism” with Laura Linder-Dockus and Cristina Coria, addressing mental health challenges faced by those operating within a culture of strength and silence. Military families receive focused attention from Tina Atherall, Heidi Kraft and Eric Rice, who will present community-centered strategies drawing on University of Southern California expertise.
Afternoon sessions shift toward healing approaches. U.S. Army veteran Katisha Jallow is scheduled to present on music and cultural identity, while Monica Vega explores creative writing as therapeutic intervention. The day concludes with practical training on Gun Violence Restraining Orders as suicide prevention tools.
The free event targets professionals across healthcare, mental health, education and first response sectors. Continuing education credits will be available for some sessions. Free parking removes financial barriers to attendance.
“Suicide Prevention Summit | Collaborative Care Day” will run on Friday, Sept. 12 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. PDT. Pasadena City College, 1570 East Colorado Boulevard, in Pasadena. For more information, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2025-suicide-prevention-summit-collaborative-care-day-tickets-1587234664609. Ticket prices: Free.
