Center for Tobacco Independence

Presenter: Edward J. Perka Jr., CASAC, NCNTT, MaineHealth Center for Tobacco Independence   Description Smoking-related disease remains the leading cause of preventable death in the United States. While about 70% of people who smoke want to quit – and many make multiple attempts – healthcare providers often feel challenged when discussing tobacco use with patients. As a result, advice to quit may unintentionally come across as directive or lacking empathy. This workshop is designed to help healthcare providers strengthen their Motivational Interviewing (MI) skills to effectively engage in conversations about tobacco and nicotine…

People with behavioral health conditions smoke at significantly higher rates—two to three times more—than the general population, leading to a disproportionate burden of tobacco-related illness and early death. Integrating tobacco treatment into behavioral health services is essential to improving overall health, recovery, and quality of life for this population. In this 90-minute training, behavioral health providers and other professionals will gain knowledge and practical tools to address tobacco use disorder. Participants will explore the impact of tobacco use among individuals with behavioral health conditions…

This 1-hour training is designed for professionals who work with youth, including school personnel, healthcare providers, coaches, and other trusted adults. The session provides foundation in adolescent brain development and explains why nicotine exposure during the teenage years can be especially harmful. Participants will learn about current trends in youth use of e-cigarettes and oral nicotine pouches, including emerging patterns in the United States. Practical, client-centered intervention strategies will be shared to help providers integrate brief, effective conversations about nicotine use into everyday…