Southern Illinois Behavioral Health Symposium

First Annual Southern Illinois Behavioral Health Symposium

September 24-25, 2026 | Southern Illinois University

Join us for the premiere in-person behavioral health continuing education event in the Midwest! The Southern Illinois Behavioral Health Symposium brings together nationally recognized experts and local professionals from the fields of social work, counseling, nursing, medicine, education, and addiction treatment.

Joseph T. Monahan - Keynote Presenter

Joseph T. Monahan (Joe) is founder of the Chicago law firm, Monahan Law Group, LLC. Trained as a social worker before going to law school, Joe has been an active member of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) for decades.

Over the past three decades as an attorney, Joe and the firm have been involved in groundbreaking legal issues impacting social workers and their clients.  

Joe successfully argued a case in the Illinois Supreme Court concerning the confidentiality of records in domestic relations proceedings, was lead trial counsel on the first same-sex adoption case in Illinois and also was the plaintiff (then later appointed co-chair of the Rule 706 expert panel) in the largest lawsuit ever brought against DCFS. Joe and the firm represent approximately 90 hospitals in the Chicago metropolitan area and provide legal representation and advocacy to numerous outpatient mental health clinics, child welfare agencies, and social workers throughout the state.

Featured Topics Include:

• Innovations in Treatment: New trends, approaches, and evidence-based practices.
• Trauma-Informed Care: Best practices for working with trauma survivors across various settings.
• Mental Health Crisis Management: Strategies for de-escalation, intervention, and community resources.
• Peer Services in Behavioral Health: Leveraging lived experience for support, advocacy, and empowerment in recovery.
• Cultural Competency in Behavioral Health: Addressing disparities and improving access to care for marginalized populations.
• Ethical Challenges : Navigating dilemmas and ensuring client-centered care.
• Burnout Prevention and Self-Care: Techniques for enhancing resilience and mental wellness for professionals.

Event Highlights:

• Networking Opportunities with peers, experts, and thought leaders.
• Continental Breakfast & Lunch Included in your admission.
• Exclusive Access to the latest behavioral health research and practices.