Expanse MN Co-Founder and Chair for MN Overdose Awareness, Paula Brandt, MS, LSW has developed and worked in programs that serve people with mental illness and/or substance use issues for over 40 years. She has dedicated her career to advocating for person-centered, common sense, compassionate care. Presently, she is Co-Founder of Expanse MN and an instructor with the Psychedelic Somatic Institute. She is also serving as Board Chair for MN Overdose Awareness (the non-profit leading the Overdose Awareness and Prevention).

Expanse MN Co-Founder, Ian McLoone, MPS, LPCC, LADC, is a licensed alcohol and drug counselor and licensed professional clinical counselor. He is co-founder and director of clinical services at Expanse Minnesota, a mental health clinic specializing in addiction and trauma. Ian is a member of the community faculty at the University of Minnesota’s integrated behavioral health program and a passionate advocate for common sense strategies when working with clients and families.

Terry Tauger, MSW, LICSW is a social worker for Hennepin County-Human Service and Public Health serving adults with mental health and substance use disorders. He is a board member of the Professional Association of Social Workers in HIV/AIDS and Minnesota Overdose Awareness. Terry is a consumer advocate for holistic approaches to well-being, health justice and equity, and building on community resource to improve health outcomes. Terry has lived experience with substance use and co-occurring disorders. Drug overdoses remain the leading cause of injury-related deaths in the US. This presentation will discuss the current challenges as well as effective strategies to save lives.