TEAM Q & A

At FastTrackerMN, we’re all about helping people find the mental health and substance use disorder resources they need. But behind the work we do, we’re a group of real people with unique stories, passions, and interests. In this blog, we’re giving you a chance to get to know us better! Check out our answers to some fun questions and learn what makes us tick—both at work and outside of it.

Linda: It’s such a great reflection of Minnesotans’ commitment to each other. Together we can always do more! Wellstone was right – “We all do better when we all do better.”

Samantha: I have been with FT for almost 6 years. I am a SUD Provider and know how hard it can be to get someone into a specific level of care quickly. I am passionate about FT because it is easy for people to find the care they need and deserve. I am a LADC because I want everyone to get into the right care!

Jessica: I firmly believe that mental health/SUD care should be easily available to anyone who needs it. The current process of getting care is way too complicated to navigate; working at FastTrackerMN, I know that I’m doing my part to make it easier for everyone. 

Marissa: I’ve had a lifelong journey with mental health, so working at FastTrackerMN feels deeply meaningful to me. Knowing that our resources help others, whether in big or small ways, truly fuels my passion. On a personal note, I used FastTrackerMN to find my therapist, and I’m continually grateful for how quickly I was able to get help and for her guidance in my healing journey.

Chandler: Mental health and SUD care should be accessible to everyone. FastTrackerMN is helping Minnesotans find the care they need; fast. As someone with lived experience, this is very important to me. I’m really proud to be a part of this team. 

Leah: Having struggled with my own mental health, I’m passionate about advocating for mental health and making sure others have the support they deserve. Through my work at FastTrackerMN, I get to help make mental health resources more accessible so others can find the support they need.

Linda: Coconut milk chai – extra hot, year round

Samantha: Sugar Free Caramel Iced coffee

Jessica: Hot Chocolate

Marissa: Anything with lots of espresso

Chandler: Chamomile tea with lemon 

Leah: White Dragon Boba Tea

Linda: Anything outside except in the winter. 

Samantha: I am a mom of 2 very active boys, so I love to watch them on the field or ice, go to their scout and school activities, and play with them and our pup at home. When I am not with them, I love my group of gals, going to bingo, lunch/dinner, shopping, or the movies!

Jessica: Camping, gardening, baking, and cooking.

Marissa: I am a youth swim coach! It is super rewarding and keeps me youthful. I also foster dogs through Ruff Start Rescue with my husband. We love pitbulls!

Chandler: I love seeing good live music. I enjoy arts and crafts as well, anything to keep my hands busy. 

Leah: I like crafting, baking, playing board games, and going to concerts! 

Linda: Fun with Dick and Jane

Samantha: Harry Potter

Jessica: Top Chef

Marissa: I really like all of Emily Henry’s books and religiously follow Great British Bake Off.

Chandler: My favorite movie is The Princess Bride. I have so many favorite tv shows, and there are too many books to name! 

Leah: My favorite show is Broad City and I love the movie WALL-E!

Linda:👍

Samantha: 😂 or❤️

Jessica: ❤️

Marissa: 💖 or 🫡

Chandler:💖

Leah: 💖or  🥰

Linda: Mexico is my current favorite, and I want to go to Croatia ASAP.

Samantha: I loved Cayman Island; I am taking my kids on a Disney cruise in the Bahamas this spring and I am sure we will loooove those islands. We are visiting 5!

Jessica: Dream trip would be to Banff National Park! 

Marissa: Anywhere Taylor Swift is.

Chandler: I love visiting my family in San Francisco, and my dream destinations are Liverpool and Belfast. 

Leah: My favorite vacation was to Puerto Rico because of all the beautiful colors and sights. I would love to travel to Peru or Albania! 

Linda: Workout or Hangout – depends on the day, and the mood. 

Samantha: Being With my two boys! They still want to snuggle and hang with me so I am soaking that up as long as I can!

Jessica: A long walk with my dog and music.

Marissa: Spending time with all of my pets and my husband snuggled up to a funny TV show or movie.

Chandler: I love to unwind by ordering takeout and watching a movie at home with my basset hound. 

Leah: My favorite way to unwind is snuggling with my cats and listening to my favorite music or watching a comfort show!

Thanks for taking a moment to get to know our team! At FastTrackerMN, we’re all about supporting people and making mental health and substance use disorder resources more accessible. Stay tuned for more updates from us—we can’t wait to keep sharing our journey and all the ways we’re working to make a difference!

FastTrackerMN Newsletter: Exciting Event Recap, New Keywords, and More Updates!

FastTrackerMN’s Anoka-Hennepin Ambassador Awareness Project

We were honored to receive funding from Congressman Phillips’ office, marking the commencement of our “Anoka-Hennepin Ambassador Project.” This initiative allows us to collaborate with the Anoka-Hennepin school district, working closely with students, faculty, and the community. Our primary focus is to elevate awareness surrounding mental health and facilitate open conversations to socialize mental health discussions. Together, through the Anoka-Hennepin Ambassador Project, we strive to create a supportive environment that encourages understanding and proactive engagement with mental health concerns.

Anoka-Hennepin Ambassador Project Goals

  • Elevate Awareness
  • Cultivate Community Presence
  • Foster comfort and awareness in dealing with mental health and substance use disorder concerns

The Anoka-Hennepin Ambassador Project Team

Tips for Providers

We’re excited to share that FastTrackerMN has expanded its keyword options to better represent the diverse range of services offered by our dedicated providers. Two new keywords have been introduced:

  1. Veteran:
    • Use this keyword if you serve the veteran population.
    • Offer groups or services tailored to veterans.
    • Have providers on your team who are veterans.
  2. Adoption/Foster Care:
    • Select this keyword if your location has expertise in adoption or foster care services.
    • Indicate providers with experience working with families undergoing the adoption process or involved in foster care.

These additions aim to enhance the accuracy and specificity of your listings, ensuring individuals can easily find the services that align with their unique needs. Thank you for your continued commitment to supporting our community’s mental health and substance use disorder needs.

Login to Update

 

Breaking Language Barriers: A Multicultural Initiative Unveiled!

FastTrackerMN.org is  embarking on a groundbreaking journey to ensure our platform is accessible to everyone. Our Language Translators and Cultural Liaisons from the Hmong, Spanish, and Somali communities are collaborating to enhance the availability of Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder resources across Minnesota.

But that’s not all! If your program includes providers fluent in Somali, Hmong, or Spanish, make sure to highlight this information by adding it as a keyword. It helps individuals in need find you easily and ensures effective communication.

Moreover, as we work on translations, we aim to make our site truly reflect the diversity of Minnesota. We’re striving to create an inclusive space that mirrors the rich cultural tapestry of our state.

Stay tuned for more details and be part of our journey toward breaking language barriers and providing accessible support for all.

FastTrackerMN.org Hmong Translation
Now search FastTrackerMN in Hmong!

 

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Thursday, March 14thScreenagers Under the Influence: Addressing Vaping, Drugs, & Alcohol in the Digital Age– In an era where digital influence is inescapable, understanding its impact on our youth’s choices and well-being has never been more crucial. We cordially invite you to join in a powerful film that is aimed at unraveling the digital threads that shape the lives of our young generation. “Screenagers Under the Influence: Addressing Vaping, Drugs, & Alcohol in the Digital Age” is a film followed by expert panel event that delves deep into these pressing issues, offering insights, strategies, and a platform for meaningful dialogue.… Jordan High School: REGISTER

Wednesday, March 20thMinnesota Social Services Association Conference– This year’s conference focuses on empowering HHS professionals, fostering a culture of support, and building sustainability in our work, while centering anti-oppression, equity, and inclusion… REGISTER

Thursday, March 21stScreenagers Under the Influence: Addressing Vaping, Drugs, & Alcohol in the Digital Age– In an era where digital influence is inescapable, understanding its impact on our youth’s choices and well-being has never been more crucial. We cordially invite you to join in a powerful film that is aimed at unraveling the digital threads that shape the lives of our young generation. “Screenagers Under the Influence: Addressing Vaping, Drugs, & Alcohol in the Digital Age” is a film followed by expert panel event that delves deep into these pressing issues, offering insights, strategies, and a platform for meaningful dialogue.… Lake Middle School: REGISTER

Thursday, April 18thScreenagers Under the Influence: Addressing Vaping, Drugs, & Alcohol in the Digital Age– In an era where digital influence is inescapable, understanding its impact on our youth’s choices and well-being has never been more crucial. We cordially invite you to join in a powerful film that is aimed at unraveling the digital threads that shape the lives of our young generation. “Screenagers Under the Influence: Addressing Vaping, Drugs, & Alcohol in the Digital Age” is a film followed by expert panel event that delves deep into these pressing issues, offering insights, strategies, and a platform for meaningful dialogue.… Two Rivers High School: REGISTER

 

If you have any news or announcements, you would like added to the FastTrackerMN.org Newsletter, please Email:

Logan Sheppard: Logan@FastTrackerMN.org

Important Information to Ensure Visibility In Searches

We at FastTrackerMN.org have been auditing locations and organizations already listed on our database search site and have noticed that several are not visible in searches due to missing information. Please check each of your organizations and locations to make sure you are not missing vital information so searchers can find you!

If you manage an organization or location, PLEASE READ!

KEY THINGS TO CHECK ON YOUR PROFILE:

  • Do you have locations listed?
    • Your organization is not what shows up in searches. Even if your organization information is the same, you need to create at least one location. Add a location for every location where you provide services. If your locations have the same name, add the city to clarify.
  • Are your locations complete?
    • Please make sure you select if your location is MH or SUD
      • If you are an SUD facility or provider, you MUST add a correct license number for that location:
      • Facilities can find license numbers HERE
      • MHCP providers make sure you are listed HERE
      • Tribal programs must include the name of the Tribe.
    • Add all insurances THAT EACH LOCATION accepts.
    • Add all key words associated with that location.
    • MOST IMPORTANT: enter all services provided at that specific location with their availability.
    • Do not list SUD services if that location is not primarily licensed as a SUD program. If your MH clinic locations offers SUD services, please create a duplicate location, including license for SUD searchers.

Login to Update

Please watch the below 5-minute video if you need help with making sure your profiles are complete.

How to Video

Use this code until 12/31/2023.

 

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Thursday, October 26th- School Refusal: Facts, Guidance & Resources @ Plymouth Psychology Group 9655 Schmidt Lake Rd Suite 150, Plymouth, MN 55442 REGISTER

Wednesday, November 1st- Saint Paul College Basic Needs Tabling – 235 Marshall Avenue, Saint Paul, MN 55102 11-1pm *FASTTRACKERMN.ORG will have a table here.

Saturday, November 4th- NAMI State Conference “Mind and Body Connection” will be held at the Saint Paul RiverCentre CEUs available REGISTER

Wednesday, November 8th- Social Media’s Impact on Mental Health and the Complicated Relationship for People with Diabetes REGISTER

 

If you have any news or announcements you would like added to the FastTrackerMN.org Newsletter, please Email us:

October 18 is World Mental Health Day

World Mental Health Day 2023 is an opportunity for people and communities to unite behind the theme ‘Mental health is a universal human right” to improve knowledge, raise awareness and drive actions that promote and protect everyone’s mental health as a universal human right.

Read More Here

 

October is Mental Health Screening Month

Search – Fast Tracker (fasttrackermn.org) to connect with local to you, Minnesota mental and chemical health providers today!

FastTrackerMN.org is a dynamic behavioral health search tool that gives Minnesotans access to real time information and availability. It improves connections for Individuals and collaboration for systems. Whether you’re searching for yourself, a loved one, a patient, or looking for general information, this is your place to start!

Use this code until 12/31/2023.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Wednesday, October 18th @ 1:30PM- CEs Available Help Families Empower Change with CRAFT REGISTER

Wednesday, October 25th 11:00AM- Free Webinar: The ASAM Criteria Third Edition or Fourth Edition, a Conundrum Or Not? REGISTER

Thursday, October 26th- School Refusal: Facts, Guidance & Resources @ Plymouth Psychology Group 9655 Schmidt Lake Rd Suite 150, Plymouth, MN 55442 REGISTER

Saturday, November 4th- NAMI State Conference “Mind and Body Connection” will be held at the Saint Paul RiverCentre CEUs available REGISTER

Wednesday, November 8th- Social Media’s Impact on Mental Health and the Complicated Relationship for People with Diabetes REGISTER

If you have any news or announcements you would like added to the FastTrackerMN.org Newsletter, please Email us:

Samantha with Substance Use ProgramsSamantha@FastTrackerMN.org and
Jessica with Mental HealthJessica@FastTrackerMN.org

Forward this newsletter to a friend!

Tips for Surviving and Thriving through the Holidays

Here are some tips to prevent holiday stress and maintain sobriety that can be put in practice by all.

Reach out. If you feel lonely or isolated, seek out community or other social events or communities. Many may have websites, online support groups, social media sites or virtual events. They can offer support and companionship.

Be realistic. The holidays don’t have to be perfect or just like last year, don’t set unrealistic expectations of yourself or others.

Set aside differences. Try to accept family members and friends as they are, even if they don’t live up to all of your expectations. Set aside grievances until a more appropriate time for discussion.

Learn to say no. Don’t feel pressured into giving time, effort or money that will cause stress. When it comes to sobriety, make sure your not caving to peer pressure, bring your own non alcoholic beverages.

Don’t abandon healthy habits. Don’t let the holidays become a free-for-all. Overindulgence only adds to your stress and guilt.

Take a breather/don’t forget self care. Take a break by yourself. Spending just 15 minutes alone, without distractions, may refresh you enough to handle everything you need to do. Caring for yourself will give you the reserves to manage both holiday stress and drinking urges, and let you bring your best self to your family gatherings.

Seek professional help if you need it. Despite your best efforts, you may find yourself feeling persistently sad or anxious, plagued by physical complaints, unable to sleep, irritable and hopeless, triggered to use and unable to face routine chores. If these feelings last for a while, IT’S OKAY TO ASK FOR HELP!

Find a Mental Health or Substance Use provider/ program with IMMEDIATE availability at Search – Fast Tracker (fasttrackermn.org)

 

DHS seeks input on online search tools for finding mental health and substance use disorder treatment

The Minnesota Department of Human Services is asking stakeholders to complete an online survey by Jan. 20, 2023, to improve currently existing online tools that direct individuals to mental health and substance use disorder services.

The survey gives stakeholders an opportunity to identify what tools are currently being used and what improvements could be made to those tools.

Also included in the survey are questions regarding the culturally specific functionality of these online tools and how that can be improved. The responses will be used to determine how to direct funding related to these online tools and any potential new tools.

Instructions for navigating this web-based survey:

Click the RESET button to reset answers on the current page in the survey.
Click the SUBMIT button on the last page to submit your completed survey to DHS.

CLICK HERE TO TAKE THE SURVEY

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Tue, Jan 24: Exercise and Eating Disorders: Helping Clients Return to Healthy Engagement with Exercise – Free Online Webinar -1:00 PM – 2:00 PM CST

 

See you all next year!

 

If you have any news or announcements you would like added to the FastTrackerMN.org Newsletter, please Email us:

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