The Melissa Institute 30th Annual Conference | From Prevention to Healing: Research-Based Solutions to Address the Youth Mental Health Crisis in America

As The Melissa Institute for Violence Prevention and Treatment marks its 30th Anniversary, this milestone conference brings together leading scholars and practitioners to address one of the most pressing public health challenges of our time: the mental health crisis affecting children and adolescents. With a focus on the prevention and treatment of emotional disorders, including anxiety, depression, trauma-related distress, and suicide risk, the conference will highlight research-based strategies that promote healing, resilience, and well-being. Learning Objectives: Upon completion of this conference, participants will be able to: Identify core evidence-based strategies for the prevention and treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma-related distress, and suicide risk among children and adolescents. Describe the impact of peer relationships and digital media on youth mental health, including risk and protective factors associated with social connectedness and belonging. Apply trauma-informed, developmentally appropriate approaches to support coping and recovery following exposure to stress, adversity, and community-level events. Explain key principles of resilience science, including the role of protective factors and strength-based interventions in promoting long-term well-being. Integrate research-based knowledge into practical strategies that can be implemented in clinical, educational, and community settings to improve youth mental health outcomes. Keynote Speakers: Wendy K. Silverman, Ph.D., ABPP Alfred A. Messer Professor of Child Psychiatry and Professor of Psychology Director, Yale Child Study Center Anxiety and Mood Disorders Program Yale University School of Medicine A global leader in the study and treatment of child and adolescent anxiety, Dr. Silverman has developed and tested interventions that have become international standards in clinical and school settings. Her extensive NIH-funded work bridges clinical research and real-world implementation in schools and communities. Thematic Focus: Preventing and treating anxiety disorders Mitch Prinstein, Ph.D. John Van Seters Distinguished Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Senior Science Advisor, American Psychological Association Dr. Prinstein is one of psychology’s most influential public voices. His research on peer relationships, digital media, and adolescent mental health informs policy, education, and clinical practice worldwide. His work highlights the urgent need to foster belonging and resilience in the digital age. Thematic Focus: The impact of digital culture on youth mental health; promoting belonging and social connectedness. Annette M. La Greca, Ph.D., ABPP Distinguished Professor of Psychology and Pediatrics, University of Miami Dr. La Greca is internationally respected for her research on youth stress, anxiety, and trauma recovery, particularly in post-disaster contexts such as hurricanes, school violence, and pandemics. Her developmental perspective integrates family, school, and cultural factors, offering a holistic framework for supporting recovery and resilience. Thematic Focus: Coping and adjustment following stress and trauma; community-based resilience models. Sherry Hamby, Ph.D. Research Professor of Psychology, University of the South Founder and Director, Life Paths Research Center Dr. Hamby is a global authority on trauma and resilience whose work emphasizes strengths-based approaches that help children and families overcome adversity. Her work integrates research, clinical practice and community engagement, emphasizing strengths-based approaches that help children and families thrive. Thematic Focus: Building resilience and strengthening protective factors DISCUSSANTS Donald Meichenbaum, Ph.D. Founding Scientific Director, The Melissa Institute Distinguished Professor Emeritus, University of Waterloo One of the most cited psychologists in the world, Dr. Meichenbaum is a co-founder of modern Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and developer of Stress Inoculation Training (SIT). His work has shaped trauma recovery and resilience programs used globally. For six decades, his scholarship and mentorship have guided the field in building safety, coping, and growth across the lifespan. Etiony Aldarondo, Ph.D. Executive Director, The Melissa Institute A distinguished clinical psychologist, researcher, and advocate, Dr. Aldarondo leads local and national efforts to prevent violence and promote resilience through research-based education and training. He has collaborated extensively with schools, justice systems, community organizations, and federal agencies to advance trauma-informed and prevention-focused approaches. COLLECTIVE VISION Together, these scholars represent The Melissa Institute’s 30-year commitment to translating rigorous science into practical tools that strengthen families, schools, and communities. This landmark conference will unite thought leaders, practitioners, and community stakeholders in reimagining how we prevent emotional disorders, promote well-being, and build safer, healthier, and more compassionate societies.